How to Download Netflix on Mac

Key Takeaways

• Netflix doesn’t offer a native macOS app, but you can stream content through browsers like Safari or Chrome.
• To download Netflix shows for offline viewing, use an iPhone, iPad, or install Windows via Boot Camp.
• M1/M2 Macs may allow iOS Netflix apps for downloads and streaming.

By following these methods, you

Netflix offers a vast library of movies and shows, and while its app is readily available for iOS and other platforms, Netflix does not offer a dedicated app for macOS. However, there are alternative ways to watch Netflix and even download content for offline viewing. This guide will walk you through how to access Netflix on your Mac and provide examples for offline access.

Why Isn’t There a Netflix App for Mac?

Unlike iPhones or iPads, macOS lacks an official Netflix app. Netflix’s offline download feature is tied to their app, which isn’t natively available for macOS. Instead, users must rely on workarounds or use Netflix’s web platform for streaming.

How to Watch Netflix on Mac

Option 1: Using a Web Browser

You can access Netflix directly from a web browser.

Steps:

1. Open your browser (e.g., Safari, Chrome, or Firefox).
2. Visit Netflix’s website.
3. Log in with your Netflix account credentials.
4. Browse and stream your favorite shows or movies.

Example: Open Safari on your Mac, log in to Netflix, and stream “Stranger Things.”

Option 2: Download Netflix Content Using an iOS Device and AirPlay

If you have an iPhone or iPad, you can download Netflix content on that device and stream it to your Mac using AirPlay.

Steps:

1. On your iPhone or iPad:
   • Download the Netflix app from the App Store.
   • Log in and download content for offline viewing.
2. Use AirPlay to stream the content to your Mac:
   • Connect your iPhone/iPad and Mac to the same Wi-Fi network.
   • Play the downloaded content in the Netflix app.
   • Tap the AirPlay icon and select your Mac as the output device.

Example: Download “The Crown” on your iPad, then use AirPlay to stream it to your Mac.

Option 3: Install Netflix on Windows via Boot Camp

If you need the Netflix app, consider installing Windows on your Mac using Boot Camp. Netflix for Windows allows offline downloads.

Steps:

1. Open Boot Camp Assistant on your Mac (found in Utilities).
2. Install Windows following the on-screen instructions.
3. After installation, download the Netflix app from the Microsoft Store on Windows.
4. Log in to Netflix and download content for offline viewing.

Example: Install Windows on your MacBook Pro, download the Netflix app from the Microsoft Store, and save episodes of “Breaking Bad” for offline viewing.

Option 4: Use Streaming Software

Some third-party tools can capture Netflix streams for offline playback, but this approach can violate Netflix’s terms of service. Use only trusted apps and check legality in your region.

Example Tools:

• Parallels Desktop (to run Windows apps on macOS).
• Screen recording software (requires caution as it may not comply with Netflix policies).

Option 5: Use an iOS App on M1/M2 Macs

If you have an M1 or M2 Mac, you can run iOS apps, including Netflix.

Steps:

1. Open the Mac App Store on your Mac.
2. Search for Netflix in the App Store.
3. Download the Netflix iOS app if available for your device.
4. Open the app, log in, and download or stream content.

FAQs

1. Can I download Netflix movies directly on a Mac?

No, Netflix’s download feature is exclusive to its app, which isn’t available for macOS. You can use workarounds like installing Windows via Boot Camp or downloading on an iOS device.

2. Can I watch Netflix offline on my Mac?

Yes, but only through indirect methods, like downloading on an iOS device and streaming via AirPlay or using Boot Camp to run the Windows Netflix app.

3. Can I use Netflix on Safari or Chrome?

Yes, you can stream Netflix on any modern browser, but downloads are not supported via browsers.

4. Are there legal issues with third-party apps for downloading Netflix?

Yes, downloading Netflix content through unauthorized methods may violate Netflix’s terms of service and local copyright laws.