Netflix has become the go-to entertainment platform for millions of users who enjoy streaming movies and TV shows every day. With over 282 million users and thousands of titles to choose from, there is truly something for everyone on Netflix. However, even with so many choices, there are still things that Netflix users can do to maximize their streaming experience.
1. Use a VPN to Access Global Content
One of the most popular hacks for Netflix is to use a VPN. VPNs are commonly used by internet users to help protect their online activities from hackers and bad apples, but VPNs can also help Netflix users bypass geo-restrictions and access content that may not be available in their home country or region. This is especially true because Netflix offers different content in certain regions.
Using a VPN is a relatively cost-effective way to increase the amount of content that you have access to. Plus, budget-minded shoppers can purchase a VPN subscription when they’re offered for reduced rates, like around the holidays or on Black Friday. Tech expert and author Tsvetomir Koychev shares that the best Black Friday VPN deals often include well-known brands like NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN. These VPNs, and others, work hard by safeguarding a user’s online data and letting users connect to servers all around the world to access content that may otherwise be blocked or unavailable.
For example, a Netflix user who lives in New Zealand may want to watch a popular American TV show that is only available to those logging in from North America. The Kiwi user can log into their VPN, connect to a server somewhere in North America, and then open Netflix. This will allow them to view all of the movies and shows that Netflix offers to those in the North American region.
While using a VPN is one of the most popular hacks to get the most out of your Netflix account, it’s not the only way to enhance your entertainment experience.
2. Use Netflix Profiles to Personalize Content Recommendations
Beyond using a VPN to access content that might be blocked in your area or country, many users also like to use Netflix profiles so that the streaming giant can make personalized recommendations to each user.
The profiles feature on Netflix allows users to create multiple profiles under one subscription. This means that a family of five could have one subscription, but each family member could have their own profile. If the mom in the family is mostly interested in travel documentaries and reality TV shows, similar content will show up as recommended for her to watch. Similarly, if the dad of the family really enjoys horror movies, similar content will also appear for him to check out.
Creating a profile for each users under a subscriptoin can enhance each persons experience while streaming content. Beyond giving users personal recommendations of what to watch, it can also help from skewing a user’s recommendations with someone else’s preferences. There’s nothing worse than logging into your Netflix account, ready to settle into a good rom-com and nothing but true crime documentaries pop up. By using a dedicated profile, each user can ensure that their content aligns with their preferences.
3. Create a Watchlist for Easy Access
A simple yet under-used tool on Netflix is the watchlist hack. Not many users use the “My List” feature, yet it’s extremely effective. “My List” allows users to add content, like movies, documentaries, and shows, that they want to watch, to a list so that they don’t forget about them. Then, each time they log on to Netflix they can browse their “My List” to see what sounds appealing.
“My List” saves users from endlessly scrolling through Netflix for hours just to find something to watch. Instead. Each time you see something that looks interesting, simply add it to your list. That way, whenever you log in you have a go-to selection of titles you’re already interested in checking out.
Beyond saving you time from scrolling Netflix, “My List” can also help you schedule time to watch the shows and movies on your list. For example, if you’ve added 4 movies, try to set a goal for yourself. If you have a lot of free time, try to watch them all within the week. If you’re busy, give yourself a month to watch them all. By having a dedicated list of content that you know you want to watch, you can better allocate time to enjoying it.
4. Stream in Higher Quality with Netflix’s Hidden Settings
Most users don’t know that Netflix allows them to change the quality of their content. This feature is especially critical for Netflix subscribers who move between locations with quick, high-speed internet and locations with slow connections. If you find yourself at home where the internet speed is top-notch, go ahead and set your Netflix streaming quality to the highest setting. But, if you’re on the road or traveling, you may want to use a lower setting to save data while still enjoying your favorite shows and movies.
To find these settings, users need to be logged into their Netflix account. Once logged in, users should select “Playback settings”. From there, you can choose options like “auto”, “low”, “medium”, or “high”. These settings are fairly user-friendly. Choose a high setting when you’ve got great connectivity and want the best possible streaming experience. Choose a low setting when your connection is poor or if you are trying to save data.
6. Download Content for Offline Viewing
Another trip to maximize your entertainment experience with Netflix is to download content to watch later when you’re offline. For many, the download feature on Netflix can be a lifesaver. This is especially true for frequent travelers or those who often find themselves without an internet connection.
With this feature, you can download your favorite titles straight onto your chosen device and then watch them later, even without an internet connection. This feature is most commonly used by Netflix subscribers who are traveling or heading off on a long trip. So, whether you’re heading to Hong Kong or visiting the Bahamas, using the download function can keep you entertained all flight long.
To download content on Netflix, log into your account. Next, find a title that you’d like to download. Look for the download icon next to the title. Once you click download, you’ll see the download begin to process. To access your downloads later on, simply log back into your account and go to “my downloads”.
Conclusion
Netflix offers users a world of entertainment. From romantic comedies to true crime documentaries and everything in between, there is something for everyone on the streaming giant’s platform. For users who want to enhance their entertainment experience even further, they can use tools like a VPN to access geo-restricted content or they can use Netflix profiles for personal recommendations. Additionally, users can download content to watch when they’re offline or choose the quality of the content they stream. With so many options, users can fine-tune and personalize their streaming experience on Netflix. Happy streaming!
