How to Download Movies on Netflix (Mac)? Your Ultimate Guide

Downloading movies on Netflix for offline viewing while using your trusty Mac is not as straightforward as it might seem. While Netflix allows downloads on mobile devices and tablets, the native Netflix app for macOS does not support downloads directly. You’ll need to employ a clever workaround to get your favorite films onto your Mac for those times when Wi-Fi is scarce.

The Simple Solution: A Virtual Machine & Netflix App

The most reliable method involves using a virtual machine (VM) such as VirtualBox or VMware Fusion and installing a compatible operating system, typically Windows, within that virtual environment. This allows you to run the Windows version of the Netflix app, which does support downloads, directly on your Mac. Let’s break down the process.

1. Install a Virtual Machine: Download and install a virtualization software like VirtualBox (free) or VMware Fusion (paid, but often offers a free trial).
2. Install Windows within the VM: You’ll need a valid Windows license and installation media (ISO file). Follow the virtual machine software’s instructions to install Windows onto the virtual machine.
3. Install the Netflix App in Windows: Once Windows is running within your VM, open the Microsoft Store and download the Netflix app.
4. Sign In and Download: Sign in to your Netflix account within the Windows Netflix app. Browse for the movies or TV shows you wish to download. Look for the download icon (a downward-pointing arrow) usually located near the title description. Click the download icon.
5. Offline Viewing: Once the download is complete, you can watch the content offline from within the Netflix app in your virtual machine.

While it might seem a bit involved, this is currently the most reliable workaround for downloading movies on Netflix onto your Mac. The upside? You can access and manage your downloads just as you would on a Windows computer or tablet.

Considerations for Virtual Machine Use

Remember that running a virtual machine requires significant system resources. Ensure your Mac has enough RAM (at least 8GB recommended) and sufficient storage space to comfortably run both macOS and the virtualized Windows environment. You’ll also need a valid Windows license to activate the operating system within the VM legally.

Netflix Download FAQs for Mac Users

Let’s delve into some frequently asked questions regarding Netflix downloads and related concerns for Mac users, providing even more clarity and guidance.

Q1: Why Can’t I Download Directly from the Netflix Website on My Mac?

The Netflix website streaming is designed for online viewing. Download functionality is intentionally omitted for the web browser experience on macOS, likely due to Digital Rights Management (DRM) restrictions and the desire to control access to downloaded content.

Q2: Are There Third-Party Netflix Downloaders for Mac? Are They Safe?

While third-party downloaders exist claiming to bypass Netflix’s download restrictions, using them comes with considerable risks. Many of these applications are either malware-laden, ineffective, or violate Netflix’s terms of service. Moreover, they could infringe on copyright laws. Exercise extreme caution and avoid using such software as it could compromise your security and legal standing.

Q3: Can I Transfer Downloaded Netflix Movies from Another Device (e.g., iPad) to My Mac?

Unfortunately, no. Netflix downloads are encrypted and tied to the specific device and Netflix account they were downloaded to. There’s no legitimate way to transfer downloaded content between devices, even if they belong to you. This is a deliberate security measure by Netflix to prevent unauthorized copying and distribution.

Q4: How Much Storage Space Do I Need for Netflix Downloads?

The required storage space depends on the video quality and the length of the movies or TV episodes you’re downloading. A single movie in standard definition might require 500MB to 1GB of storage, while high-definition downloads can easily consume 2GB to 5GB per movie. Monitor your storage usage carefully, especially within the virtual machine environment.

Q5: Can I Adjust the Download Quality on the Windows Netflix App in My Virtual Machine?

Yes, the Windows Netflix app allows you to adjust the download quality. Within the app’s settings, you can typically choose between Standard and High download quality. Higher quality downloads will consume more storage space but offer a better viewing experience.

Q6: Are There Regional Restrictions on Netflix Downloads?

Yes, certain movies and TV shows might not be available for download in all regions due to licensing agreements. If a title is unavailable for download, it will typically lack the download icon. You can only download content available in your current region.

Q7: How Long Do Netflix Downloads Last?

Downloaded movies and TV shows on Netflix have an expiration date. This expiration period varies depending on the title and licensing agreements. Once the expiration date is near, you’ll receive a notification within the Netflix app. You may be able to renew the download, provided the title is still available on Netflix. Some downloads may also expire if you haven’t connected to the internet with your device for a certain period.

Q8: Can I Watch Netflix Downloads on My Mac Without an Internet Connection?

Absolutely! That’s the whole point of downloading. Once a movie or TV episode is downloaded within the Windows Netflix app in your virtual machine, you can watch it offline without an active internet connection. This is perfect for travel or situations where Wi-Fi is unavailable.

Q9: How Do I Delete Netflix Downloads on My Mac (within the VM)?

Within the Windows Netflix app, navigate to the “Downloads” section. You’ll see a list of your downloaded titles. Click on the ellipsis (…) or a similar icon next to the title you want to delete and select “Delete Download.” This will remove the file from your storage.

Q10: Will Running a Virtual Machine Significantly Slow Down My Mac?

Running a virtual machine can impact your Mac’s performance, especially if your system has limited resources. Ensure your Mac meets the minimum requirements for both macOS and the virtual machine software, and allocate sufficient RAM and processing power to the virtual machine for optimal performance. Close any unnecessary applications on your Mac while running the VM to minimize performance impact.

Q11: Is It Possible to Use Boot Camp to Install Windows and Download Netflix Movies?

Yes, using Boot Camp to install Windows natively on a separate partition on your Mac is another option. Boot Camp provides better performance than a virtual machine because Windows runs directly on the hardware instead of within a virtualized environment. The process of downloading Netflix movies would remain the same; downloading through the Netflix app for Windows. You will need to restart your Mac each time when you switch between MacOS and Windows.

Q12: Are There Any Alternatives to Netflix That Allow Direct Downloads on Mac?

Yes, other streaming services offer direct downloads on Macs through their native applications. Amazon Prime Video, for instance, allows you to download movies and TV shows directly through its Mac app. Apple TV+ also offers download functionality for offline viewing on Macs. Consider exploring these alternatives if native download support on macOS is a primary requirement.