Netflix is regarded as one of the best streaming services, with a massive combination of movies, television series documents, and entries available. However, one particular drawback for Mac individuals is that making it easy, there is no way to download items for offline viewing.
Even though the Netflix subscription company produces software applications for iOS, Android, and Windows platforms, there is no certified app available for the Mac operating system that allows for such a function. This guide details the procedure that you can use to watch Netflix offline on a Mac using several alternative methods, including some other streaming websites.
Does Netflix Have An App For Mac?
Netflix currently does not provide a separate application for Mac users. One can enjoy all Netflix features on a Mac using media applications like Safari, Passbook for Mac, etc. However, there is no provision for mobile download of films/TV for the Mac. This shortcoming has resulted in the blasting of Mac users looking for other ways to watch movies on Netflix without a net connection.
Some of such websites would boast of ‘Netflix download’ for Mac. These sites usually contain unauthorized files or other software inappropriately addressed. One should be wary and not install unrespectable programs that may risk the computer.
How To Download Netflix On Mac via Windows (Using Boot Camp)
Downloading Netflix on Mac is not possible; however, some alternative options are available, which allow you to download any Netflix movie or series and enjoy the content offline. These best ways include installing Windows on your Mac, using screen capture software, or streaming from an iOS device. Each has pros and cons depending on your other skills and interests.
Install Windows On Your Mac
While downloading Netflix directly on a Mac isn’t possible, you can work around this by installing Windows on your Mac using Boot Camp. Boot Camp is a utility that allows you to install and run Windows on your Mac, effectively turning your Mac into a Windows PC when you boot into Windows. Once you’ve installed Windows, you can then download the Netflix app for Windows and use it to download Netflix content for offline viewing.
Steps To Install Windows On Your Mac:
- Get Ready For Windows Installation: First, check that your Mac has sufficient free disk space—at least 128GB. It may be used for Windows OS and Netflix app content that can be downloaded later. You may also want to back up your device if something bizarre happens during installation.
- Download The Windows ISO Image: Go to Microsoft’s homepage and download a copy of Windows 10 ISO. Activation on installation will necessitate the use of a genuine license key.
- Boot Camp Assistant: To access Boot Camp Assistant on your Mac, go to Applications, then navigate to Utilities, and click on Boot Camp Assistant. You must follow the instructions on the screen to create a partition for installing Windows on the Mac’s hard disk.
- Creation Of Partition: When such a message appears, you must provide that the Windows partition should occupy at least 64GB of space. Not less than 128GB is advisable if one wants to download and keep numerous Netflix videos in the future.
- Installing Windows: After partitioning, the Mac will be restarted to initiate installation. It will prompt you to choose the installation disk. Select the ‘Boot Camp’ partition.
- Set Up BootCamp Drivers: After installing Windows, Boot Camp will help you install all the other drivers used to make your Mac work properly in Windows.
- Netflix App Download: Install the Netflix app by opening the Microsoft Store on Windows and searching for it through the Store application.
Limitations:
- For Intel-based Macs Only: It is necessary to mention that Boot Camp is software that can be found on Intel-based Macs. This method would not be feasible if you own a more recent Mac with M1 or M2 chips.
- Parallels Software: Although Parallels enables M1 Mac users to access Windows, it does not allow Netflix to be downloaded for offline viewing on Windows 11.
Using Parallels Desktop For Netflix On Mac
In cases where installing Windows is not an option, there is another way that enables users to watch Netflix offline: by recording their device’s screen as the content plays. With that, you can record shows and movies you ordinarily watch with the help of Netflix.
Sideloading Netflix On Mac via PlayCover
Some Mac users may consider sideloading Netflix through PlayCover, but it involves using unofficial methods to run iOS apps on macOS. This process can be unreliable and may have compatibility issues. It is generally not recommended, as Netflix does not provide official support for this option.
Use An iOS Device To Stream Netflix To Your Mac
Mac users can also stream Netflix from an iOS device. This method involves downloading the Netflix content onto your iPhone or iPad and then using AirPlay or Screen Mirroring to watch the content on your Mac’s larger screen.
Steps To Stream Netflix From iOS
- Download Netflix Content On iPhone/iPad: Open the Netflix app on the iOS device, search for the videos you want to download, and look for the download icon next to the movie or TV show episode.
- Use AirPlay Or Screen Mirroring: Ensure the iOS device and the Mac are on the same Wi-Fi network. Open the Control Center on the iPhone or iPad, tap the Screen Mirroring option, and select the Mac from the list.
- Watch On Your Mac: Streaming content will be sent from your iOS device to your Mac. This means that you can enjoy the content on the larger screen of your Mac while the download still resides in the memory of your iPhone or iPad.
Limitations:
- Requires Constant Connection: During streaming, your Mac and iOS device must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, which may cause inconveniences if you move.
- No AirPlay Support: Netflix has also removed AirPlay support from its application. In this case, you must rely on other applications like AirServer to project your screen, requiring extra movement.
Alternative Streaming Services With Offline Options
If the lack of Netflix offline downloads on macOS is a dealbreaker, consider other streaming services that offer offline downloads without requiring complex workarounds.
- Hulu: Offers offline downloads for its subscribers, along with live television options.
- YouTube Premium: Allows downloading videos for offline viewing with access to exclusive content.
- Amazon Prime Video: Offers offline downloads on iOS, Android, and other devices, making it a solid alternative to Netflix.
Optimize Your Mac For Streaming
To ensure smooth streaming or recording on your Mac, follow these optimization tips:
- Close Unnecessary Applications: Running multiple programs can slow down your Mac’s performance. Close any background applications or tabs that aren’t needed during streaming to free up system resources like RAM and CPU, enhancing video playback quality.
- Update macOS: Ensure your Mac is running the latest macOS version, as updates often include performance improvements, bug fixes, and better compatibility with streaming platforms like Netflix. Go to “System Preferences” > “Software Update” to check for the latest updates.
- Check Internet Connection: For uninterrupted streaming, ensure your internet speed meets Netflix’s recommended minimum of 5 Mbps for HD content. Use a wired Ethernet connection if possible or position your Mac closer to your Wi-Fi router to avoid buffering issues.
- Adjust Display And Sound Settings: Maximize your viewing experience by adjusting your Mac’s display brightness, resolution, and sound output. Ensure the audio and video settings are configured to deliver optimal clarity.
FAQs:
No, Netflix does not offer a native app for Mac that allows offline downloads. You can only stream content on macOS through a web browser.
PlayCover lets you run iOS apps on macOS, but it’s not an official solution. Using it for Netflix may lead to performance issues or functionality problems, and it’s not recommended by Netflix.
Screen recording Netflix content breaches the platform’s terms of service and may be illegal depending on your location. It can lead to penalties, including account suspension or legal action.
Yes, but only through workarounds like installing Windows via Boot Camp or streaming downloaded content from an iOS device using AirPlay or screen mirroring.
You can’t directly download Netflix movies on a MacBook. However, you can install Windows or use an iOS device to download and stream content offline.
Yes, on Windows laptops through the Netflix app, but this feature is unavailable directly on macOS. Mac users need alternative methods like Boot Camp or streaming from iOS.
Netflix hasn’t developed a dedicated app for macOS due to its business focus on other platforms like iOS and Windows, where apps are more widely used.
Netflix’s download feature is only available on Windows and mobile platforms. MacBooks don’t have a dedicated app to support offline downloads.
No, the download option still exists but is limited to certain platforms like iOS, Android, and Windows PCs that support the official Netflix app.
To enable Netflix downloads, you must use a supported device, such as a Windows PC, iPhone, or Android device, that offers the Netflix app’s download feature.
Conclusion
Advanced Mac users can bypass these limitations in several ways, offering a range of options to watch Netflix shows or movies offline. Whether you choose to install Windows, use screen capture tools, or stream from iOS devices, each method provides a different level of flexibility. By following the approaches mentioned above, you can watch your favorite series and movies on Netflix without using any third-party applications.
