If you’ve ever wondered whether you can watch Netflix on your Nintendo Switch, you’re not alone. It seems like a natural fit—after all, the Switch is portable, has a decent screen, and is just begging to be used for more than just gaming. Unfortunately, it’s not as straightforward as downloading an app from the eShop. Let’s have a look at what your options are for streaming Netflix content on your Switch. Be warned. It’s pretty limited.
First, let’s address the current situation: as of now, Netflix does not have an official app available for the Nintendo Switch. Unlike other streaming platforms like Hulu or YouTube, which do have dedicated apps, Netflix hasn’t made its way over yet. But where this is a will there is a way. There are still ways to enjoy your favorite Netflix shows, though it just requires a little workaround.
But why not just use the Switch’s web browser? Technically, the Switch does have a browser but it’s not exactly Google Chrome. The browser on the Switch is not really meant for general use and is mostly tucked away for system purposes like logging into Wi-Fi. There’s no official way to just open a browser and go to Netflix.com, at least not without some serious workaround steps involving DNS settings that can be tricky to configure and may not be worth the effort, especially considering that it can be inconsistent at best.
Another option, though a bit more indirect, is using a secondary device like a smartphone or tablet and simply screen-sharing to your TV. The Switch itself won’t be playing Netflix, but if you’ve got your TV hooked up for console gaming, you can easily use another device to stream Netflix and get a similar experience without much hassle. While this might not be the answer Switch users were hoping for, it’s still a straightforward way to enjoy Netflix alongside your console setup.
Other options
If you’re really keen on getting Netflix on a handheld gaming device and aren’t wedded to the Switch as the only option, the good news is there are alternatives. Devices like the Nintendo Switch’s main competitor, the Steam Deck, do offer more options when it comes to general browsing and media consumption. I’ve happily streamed Netflix to my deck with absolutely no issues. The Switch, however, remains more focused on gaming, which could explain the lack of an official Netflix app. Nintendo has yet to make a clear statement on whether Netflix will ever come to the platform, but until then, we can hope it may be available on the Switch 2 when that finally comes out.
So, while there’s no direct way to watch Netflix on your Switch and probably never will be, the hope lies either with the new generation of Nintendo console or bodging a workaround so you can desperately check out Below Deck.
