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September 13, 2025 | 4 Minute read

How to Download Netflix Shows and Movies

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Hansel Arief
How to download Netflix shows and movies on laptop, Macbook and more. Woman holding a tablet with Netflix logo on the screen

The fastest way to download shows and movies on Netflix is through the official app. Open a movie or TV show, look for the download icon, and tap it to save offline. Once complete, the title appears in your Downloads tab, where you can watch it without Wi-Fi or data. Kindly note that a paid account is required for this.

Netflix downloads are especially useful for flights, long commutes, or traveling where internet access isn’t stable or reliable. But the process varies slightly depending on the device you’re using.

How to Download Netflix Movies on Laptop

Many people ask: can you download Netflix movies on laptop? The answer is yes, but only on Windows. To do it, you’ll need the Netflix app from the Microsoft Store. Downloads won’t work through a browser like Chrome or Edge.

  1. Open the Microsoft Store on your Windows laptop.
  2. Search for Netflix and install the app.
  3. Sign in with your account.
  4. Browse for a movie or show and tap the download icon.
  5. Find your saved titles under the Downloads section of the app.

This method works for both Windows laptops and desktops.

How to Download Netflix on MacBook

A common frustration is that Netflix does not support offline downloads on macOS. There’s no Netflix app for Mac, and browsers like Safari or Chrome don’t allow saving shows. The only workaround is to download content on another device, such as an iPhone or iPad, and then AirPlay it to a TV for big-screen viewing.

If offline viewing is essential, it’s best to use a supported device like an iPhone, iPad, or Windows laptop.

Downloading on iPhone, iPad, and Android

Mobile devices offer the most seamless experience for downloads:

  • Movies: Tap the download icon to save offline.
  • TV Shows: Either download single episodes or use the “Download Season” button to save entire seasons at once.
  • Android extras: You can choose to save content to an SD card if your device supports it.
  • iOS perks: Smart Downloads will delete watched episodes and automatically fetch the next one when you’re online.

Netflix Download Limit

Netflix sets restrictions on how many titles you can download at once. The exact download limit depends on your subscription plan:

  • Ad-supported plan: Fewer devices and titles allowed.
  • Standard and Premium plans: More devices can store downloads, and you can save a higher number of shows.

Some individual titles also have limits because of licensing agreements. You might see a message like “You have downloaded this title too many times” if you’ve re-downloaded it across different devices.

Troubleshooting Common Download Issues

  • No download button showing: That title isn’t available for offline viewing. Check the Available for Download section instead.
  • Download failed: Update the Netflix app and confirm you have enough storage space.
  • Downloads expired: Some shows expire after a certain number of days, while others must be watched within 48 hours once playback starts. Re-download if available.
  • Too many devices error: Delete downloads from another device connected to your account to free up space.

Tips for Managing Downloads

  • Use Wi-Fi instead of mobile data to download large files.
  • Select Standard Quality for smaller file sizes, or Higher Quality if you want sharper video.
  • Clear old downloads regularly to free up space.
  • Refresh your downloads before a trip to make sure they’re still valid.

Why Eskimo eSIM Helps While Traveling

Downloads are handy, but you’ll still need internet access to refresh expired titles or download new ones on the go. With Eskimo, you get instant eSIM connectivity in over 130 countries without swapping SIM cards or paying roaming fees. New users can even claim free global eSIM data for a limited time, making it easy to stay connected while updating your Netflix library abroad.

FAQs

Can you download Netflix movies on laptop?

Yes, but only with the Netflix app on Windows laptops or PCs. Browser downloads don’t work.

How to download Netflix on MacBook?

Netflix does not support downloads on Mac. Use another device, such as iPhone, iPad, or Windows laptop.

What is the Netflix download limit?

It depends on your plan. Premium users can download more titles across more devices than those on ad-supported plans.

Can I watch Netflix downloads without Wi-Fi?

Yes. Once saved to your device, titles can be watched offline, even in airplane mode.

Do Netflix downloads expire?

Yes. Some expire after a few days, while others must be completed within 48 hours once playback begins.

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Written by a real person 💙
Hansel Arief
I've been the Digital Lead for Eskimo eSIM since 2021. My favorite thing to do while travelling is to find lessser-known hidden gems and try authentic, local cuisines.
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