So, you’re planning a trip or maybe just want to watch your favorite show without an internet connection. You’ve got your trusty MacBook, open Netflix, and look for a way to download. But wait… where’s the download button?
Can you really download Netflix content on a Mac? The short answer: No, not directly. But don’t worry. We’ll explain why, and show you some smart ways around it. Get ready to become a Netflix–Mac pro!
Why There’s No Download Button on Netflix for Mac
First things first. Let’s understand why Netflix hasn’t added that little download arrow on the Mac version.
- The Netflix website (that you use on Safari or Chrome) doesn’t support downloading content.
- The Netflix app that allows downloads is available only on Windows, iOS, Android, and some smart TVs. No Mac version. Yet!
- This is likely due to digital rights and how Apple handles app permissions on macOS.
It might seem strange. I mean, macOS is super powerful. Why limit it?
Blame digital rights and platform rules. Netflix wants to protect its content from easy piracy. And Apple has strict rules for apps, especially those involving video downloads.
But Wait… There’s a Way!
Don’t give up hope just yet. You can’t download directly from Netflix on a Mac, but there are clever workarounds.
1. Use Boot Camp or Parallels to Run Windows on Your Mac
Yes, it’s possible! You can install Windows on your Mac and then use the Netflix app for Windows. That opens up the download feature just like on a PC.
- Boot Camp lets you choose at startup if you want to run macOS or Windows.
- Parallels lets you run Windows and macOS side by side—super convenient!
Once you have Windows running, go to the Microsoft Store, install the Netflix app, and voilà! Downloading shows and movies becomes easy.
Note: You’ll need enough space on your Mac since Windows takes up a chunk. Also, make sure your Mac meets the system requirements.
2. Use an iPhone or iPad and Then AirPlay It
Okay, maybe running Windows sounds like too much work. How about this trick instead:
Download Netflix shows directly to your iPhone or iPad. Then, use AirPlay to stream it to your Mac.
Steps:
- Open Netflix on your iPhone or iPad
- Download the movie or show you want
- Swipe up to open the Control Center and enable AirPlay
- Select your Mac (make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi)
- Enjoy your show on the Mac screen!
This isn’t exactly the same as watching offline on your Mac, but it gets close. And it works like a charm!
3. Use Screen Recording? (With Caution!)
This one is tricky and not officially recommended. You might think: “Why not play the show while I’m online and record my screen?”
Technically, apps like QuickTime on Mac can record your screen. But there are big problems with this:
- It may break Netflix’s terms of service
- The quality might not be great
- Audio might not record properly
So, we don’t really encourage this method, but you might hear people talking about it. Just know it exists, with a lot of disclaimers.
Why You Might Not Need to Actually Download
Let’s flip the thinking for a minute. Do you always need to download?
Here are some tips so streaming is smoother, even without downloads:
- Pre-load your Netflix page before you lose internet (like on a train that still has short tunnel zones)
- Use a mobile hotspot if Wi-Fi isn’t trustworthy
- Buffer the video by letting it play while paused, so it doesn’t stutter while you watch
It’s still not the same as downloading, but these tips can help if you’re in between internet zones or on shaky Wi-Fi.
Checking Your Download Options: A Quick Guide
If you’re trying downloads on other devices (like an iPhone or iPad), here’s a guide:
- Open the Netflix app
- Tap on any movie or episode page
- Look for the download icon (a downward arrow)
- Some titles may not be available for download due to licensing—don’t worry, most are!
You’ll find your downloaded content in the Download section at the bottom of the screen.
FAQs
Can I use Safari to download from Netflix?
Nope. Safari on Mac won’t let you download. It’s stream-only via the website.
Will Netflix ever create a macOS app?
There are no announcements yet. But with iOS apps getting so advanced, who knows? Fingers crossed!
What’s my best option today?
If you really want offline viewing on a Mac, installing Windows and using the Windows Netflix app is currently your best bet.
Wrapping It Up
Let’s recap. Can you download Netflix content directly on Mac? No.
But are there workarounds? Yes indeed!
- Install Windows using Boot Camp or Parallels for the full download experience.
- Use your iPhone or iPad to download and AirPlay to your Mac.
- Explore streaming smarter without downloads when possible.
Until Netflix gives us a native Mac app with download support, these tricks will keep you watching anytime, anywhere.
Now grab your popcorn, set up your Mac, and stream like a champion!