Looking for a simple way to download Netflix to your Mac? Unlike iOS and Android, there is no native Netflix application for macOS. But don’t worry, we’re going to explore various methods and tricks to enable you to watch your favorite movies and series offline on your Mac.

Downloading Netflix content for offline viewing

To watch your Netflix movies and series without an Internet connection on your Mac, several tools are available. StreamFab Netflix Downloader, for example, lets you download movies in HDR 1080p quality with Atmos/EAC3 5.1 sound. TunePat Netflix Video Downloader also lets you save your Netflix videos for offline viewing. Finally, PlayerFab Netflix Player plays your downloaded videos in 1080p quality with EAC3 5.1 audio.

How can I watch movies downloaded from Netflix on a Mac?

To access downloaded movies, open the software used for downloading. If you have used StreamFab Netflix Downloader, open the application and go to the downloads section. Here you’ll find all the films and series you’ve saved.

With TunePat Netflix Video Downloader, the process is similar. Launch the application and access your download library to find your videos. You can play them directly from the application or transfer them to a media player of your choice.

With PlayerFab Netflix Player, open the player and navigate to the location of your videos. Select the file you want to watch and enjoy your content in 1080p quality with EAC3 5.1 audio.

Check the expiration date of your downloads regularly, as some content may expire. Delete previously viewed videos to free up space on your hard disk.

How do I watch a Netflix movie offline on a Mac?

To watch a Netflix movie offline on a Mac, first download the content via a third-party application such as TunePat or SameMovie Netflix Video Downloader.

Follow these steps:

  1. Download and install the:

    Choose one of the above applications and install it on your Mac.

  2. Sign in to your Netflix account:

    Open the application and log in to your Netflix account.

  3. Configure output parameters:

    Video quality (up to 1080p), subtitles and audio tracks.

  4. Search content:

    Search for the movie or series you want to download.

  5. Download content:

    Click on the download button next to the title. For series, download each episode individually.

Once the download is complete, access your videos in the application’s library.

Why can’t I download Netflix to my Mac?

There is no native Netflix application for macOS. Netflix has simply not developed a specific version for Mac computers. This may seem frustrating, but there are technical and strategic reasons for it.

Netflix prefers to focus on platforms where demand is strongest, such as iOS, Android and Windows. macOS, although popular, represents a smaller market share. Apple imposes strict restrictions on applications in the Mac App Store, making it difficult to develop a native Netflix application.

If you have a Mac with an M1 or M2 chip, you’re in luck. These machines can run iOS applications thanks to the ARM architecture. You can download the Netflix app for iOS directly from the Mac App Store. However, this solution is not perfect. Some features may not be optimized for macOS.

For those willing to go the extra mile, it’s possible to install Windows on your Mac using Boot Camp or Parallels. Boot Camp is Apple’s free utility for installing Windows on a separate partition. Parallels is a paid-for software package that lets you run Windows in a virtual machine on macOS. Once Windows is installed, you can download the Netflix for Windows application and enjoy all its features, including downloading content for offline viewing.

These solutions, though effective, have their drawbacks. Using Boot Camp means restarting your Mac every time you switch from macOS to Windows. Parallels, while more flexible, can be costly and resource-hungry. These methods require a certain amount of technical expertise to be implemented correctly.

Faced with these limitations, it’s natural to look for simpler alternatives. Fortunately, web browsers offer a convenient solution for accessing Netflix on the Mac without installing additional applications or juggling different operating systems.

Using web browsers to access Netflix on the Mac

The easiest way to access Netflix on your Mac is to use a web browser. Open Safari, Chrome or Firefox and go to www.netflix.com. Log in to your account and enjoy your favorite streaming content.

This method offers several advantages. Firstly, it requires no additional installation. Secondly, it lets you benefit from the latest Netflix updates without waiting for a new version of the application. Finally, modern browsers offer a fluid, optimized viewing experience.

However, there are a few limitations. For example, downloading content for offline viewing is not possible via a browser. For this, you’ll need to use the third-party solutions mentioned earlier. In addition, streaming quality may vary depending on the browser used and your Internet connection.

Device updates and compatibility

To get the most out of Netflix on your Mac, keep your operating system and software up to date. This guarantees an optimal viewing experience and the safety of your device.

Make sure you have the latest operating system and security patches. Check that your Mac is running the latest version of macOS. Updates often include security patches and performance improvements that can affect streaming quality. To check for updates, go to the Apple menu, then “System Preferences” and click on “Software updates”.

To watch Netflix in Ultra High Definition (UHD), here’s what you need:

  • macOS Big Sur 11.0 or later: Make sure your Mac is up to date with this version or later.
  • Safari up to date: Use the latest version of Safari for the best performance and UHD compatibility.
  • UHD-compatible screen: Your screen must be capable of displaying UHD resolution. If you’re using an external display, make sure it’s compatible.
  • Stable Internet connection: A connection of at least 15 Mbps is required for UHD streaming. Check your connection speed with online tools like Speedtest.

For High Dynamic Range (HDR), the requirements are slightly different:

  • macOS Catalina 10.15.4 or later: Update your operating system to this or a later version.
  • Safari up to date: Use the latest version of Safari.
  • HDR-compatible screen: Your screen must be able to handle HDR. This often includes specific external monitors.
  • HDR-compatible cable/adapter: If you’re using an external display, make sure your cable or adapter supports HDR.

Netflix is accessible via several browsers, but certain configurations are recommended for an optimal experience:

  • Safari: Ideal for macOS, especially for UHD and HDR streaming.
  • Chrome: Works well, but streaming quality may be limited to 720p on macOS.
  • Firefox: Similar to Chrome, with quality limitations.
  • Edge: Available for macOS, but performance may vary.

For other devices or systems, here are a few points to consider:

  • Chromebook: ChromeOS 76 or later with Chrome 106 or later for maximum Full HD resolution (1080p).
  • iPad: iPadOS 13 or later with Safari 11 or later for maximum Full HD resolution (1080p).
  • Linux: Some GNU/Linux systems are compatible with Chrome 106 or later, Firefox 111 or later, Edge 118 or later, and Opera 92 or later, for maximum HD resolution (720p).

Security and prevention against malicious versions of the Netflix application

Downloading applications from unofficial sources can expose your Mac to security risks. To avoid malware, it’s crucial to follow a few simple but effective rules.

First, use only official sources to download Netflix. For Mac users with M1 or M2 chips, this means going through the Mac App Store to get the iOS application. Other users can use reputable third-party software such as StreamFab or TunePat, but it’s essential to download them from their official sites.

Beware of malicious versions of the application. Unverified sites may offer installation files infected with spyware or viruses. To reduce this risk, configure your Mac to allow only applications from the Mac App Store or identified developers. To do this, go to “System Preferences”, then “Security and Privacy”, and under the “General” tab, select “App Store and identified developers”.

You should also be careful when opening downloaded files. .dmg or .pkg files can sometimes contain malware. Before opening a file, check its origin to make sure it comes from a reliable source. If in doubt, use antivirus software to scan the file before installing it.

Finally, keep your operating system and software up to date. Updates often include security patches to protect against new threats. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy Netflix on your Mac in complete safety.

Netflix subscription sharing with Sharesub

Share your Netflix subscription with Sharesub to optimize your spending and enjoy easy, legal access to your favorite content. With Sharesub, you can split the cost of your Netflix subscription with other users, significantly reducing your monthly expenses. This secure platform manages payments and access to shared subscriptions, giving you a worry-free experience.

Sharesub ensures that Netflix subscription sharing complies with Netflix’s Terms of Service, guaranteeing that your account remains protected and does not risk suspension. By joining a sharing group on Sharesub, you can enjoy the benefits of Netflix at a more affordable rate, while respecting the platform’s rules.

FAQ :

1. Is there an official Netflix application for macOS?

No, there is no official Netflix application for macOS. Mac users need to access Netflix via a web browser such as Safari, Chrome or Firefox.

2. How can I create a Netflix shortcut on my Dock?

To create a Netflix shortcut on your Dock, open Safari, go to the official Netflix website, then go to the “File” menu and select “Add to Dock”. Name the shortcut “Netflix” and click “Add”.

3. Can I download Netflix movies and series to my Mac for offline viewing?

No, Netflix doesn’t allow you to download content for offline playback on macOS via a web browser. This feature is only available on mobile applications (iOS, Android) and on Windows.

4. Is it possible to use Netflix’s iOS app on a Mac?

Yes, if you have a Mac with an M1 or M2 chip, you can use Netflix’s iOS app. To do this, open the App Store on your Mac, search for Netflix, select “Apps for iPhone and iPad” and download the app.

5. What’s the best way to access Netflix easily on a Mac?

The simplest, legal way to access Netflix on a Mac is to create a web shortcut via Safari. This lets you open Netflix directly from your Dock as if it were a native application.

6. Can I use AirPlay to stream Netflix from an iPhone or iPad to a Mac?

No, Netflix no longer supports AirPlay for streaming content from an iPhone or iPad to a Mac. You’ll need to use alternative methods, such as viewing directly on the device or via a browser on your Mac.

Categorized in: