How to Download Netflix Movies on Windows PC (Windows 11/10)

Part 1. What's New about the Download Feature in the Netflix App for Windows 10/11?

The overhaul of the Netflix app for Windows PCs introduced a wave of new functionalities alongside some fundamental shifts in how the application operates. Officially, Netflix states that this update aims "to offer a consistent, quality experience for our members." However, the impact of these changes on the user's viewing experience, particularly concerning offline access, warrants a closer examination. Let's break down the update on the download feature to the Netflix app on Windows 11 and Windows 10:

The Striking Absence of the Download Feature on Windows PC

The most significant and widely discussed alteration in the updated Netflix PC desktop app is the removal of the download feature. This means that users can no longer directly download movies and TV shows on Netflix onto their Windows computers for offline viewing, a capability that many had come to rely on for entertainment during travel or in situations with unreliable internet connectivity. This particular change has sparked considerable disappointment and criticism, especially among users who frequently utilized the download option.

Even industry observers have voiced their concerns. Mayank Parmar, the founder of Windows Latest, also said that he didn't understand why Netflix was removing the download feature. He noted that many users actively utilize downloads on Windows and prefer the functionality of the previous app over the web browser experience, highlighting a potential disconnect between the update and user needs.

Workarounds to Download Movies from Netflix on Windows PC

Some users have reported success in downloading older versions of the Netflix Windows app, which still had the download functionality. If you are using an old one, you can refer to the following steps to download Netflix movies on your PC for offline viewing:

1. Open the Netflix app, and you'll need to log in with the ad-free Netflix account credentials by clicking on the 'Sign in' button.
2. Go to the top-left corner and choose the 'menu' icon shown by the three horizontal lines. After scrolling down to the bottom, you can choose the 'Available for Download' option. Or, you can directly browse or search for the movies or TV shows you want to download. But please note that not all video content is available for download.
3. After accessing the video content on Netflix, you'll need to click on the video or TV show you want to download. Tap the 'Download' button to start the download process.

Keep in mind that preventing updates may not be a permanent solution, as Netflix may eventually stop supporting older app versions, forcing you to update.

Part 2. How to Download Netflix Shows and Movies on Windows 10/11

As previously mentioned, the latest version of the Netflix app for Windows has removed the built-in option to download shows and movies for offline viewing. However, if you still want to download Netflix content on Windows 10 or 11, there is an alternative: StreamUlt Netflix Video Downloader.

It allows you to download any Netflix things on a PC, such as TV shows, movies, and documentaries, in their original video quality, whether in Full HD, 4K Ultra HD, or with HDR. Additionally, StreamUlt Netflix Video Downloader can preserve 5.1 Dolby surround audio and offer AD (audio description) download for enhanced accessibility, giving you the fullest Netflix experience on Windows computer. Here's how to use it:

How to Download Netflix Movies on Windows 11 and Windows 10

Step 1 Log in to Your Netflix Account

First, download and install StreamUlt Netflix Video Downloader on your Windows computer. Then, launch the software and log in to your Netflix account. Now, you'll have access to the full Netflix library, including movies, TV shows, documentaries, anime, and original productions.

Step 2 Adjust Netflix Download Settings

Click the hamburger icon in the top-right corner of the StreamUlt interface and select 'Preferences'. Under the "Download" tab, you can configure the output location, quality, formats, and settings for the audio tracks and subtitles. Once done, click 'OK' to save your preferences.

Step 3 Select Netflix Content to Download on PC

Use the search bar in the StreamUlt Netflix Video Downloader and select the shows or movies you want to download. You'd either search it by title or paste the URL of the specific video. Once you locate the content, click on it to move forward.

Step 4 Download Netflix Movies on Windows Computer

Choose the episodes or movies you want to download and configure options for video quality, audio, and subtitles. You'd also download them in batches to save some time. Next, hit the 'Download' button to start the process. Your Netflix videos will be saved in MP4 or MKV format to your designated folder on your Windows PC.

Step 5 Access and Play Downloaded Netflix Videos on PC

To view your downloaded content, go to the "History" section. You can locate the file on your computer by clicking the "Folder" icon next to the video. Now, you can play the downloaded Netflix video on your computer or transfer it from your computer to other devices, such as smart TVs, cars, or mobile phones for offline playback.

Part 3. How to Watch Netflix on Windows 10 and 11 via the Updated App

The latest Netflix app can still be installed on Windows 10 and 11 devices via the Microsoft Store, but users now only have the option to install the Progressive Web App (PWA) version. If you are open to changes in Netflix updates, you can follow the steps below to download the app and stream Netflix movies and TV episodes online on your PC.

How to Download Netflix App on Windows 10/11

1. On your Windows 10 or 11 computer, open the Microsoft Store app from the Start menu or by searching for it.
2. Sign in to your Microsoft account.
3. In the Microsoft Store search bar, type "Netflix" and press Enter. You will see the Netflix app in the search results.
4. Once you've found the Netflix app, click on the "Install" button to begin downloading and installing the app on your Windows computer.

How to Stream Netflix Videos on Windows Computer

1. After installation is complete, you can open the Netflix app from the Start menu or directly from the Microsoft Store page.



2. Navigate through the Netflix library to find the movies or TV shows you wish to stream. You can also use the search bar or browse through different categories.
3. Tap the favorite Netflix show and click the "Play" button to watch favorite Netflix video on your computer online.

Part 4. Further Reading: Other News about Netflix App for Windows PC

Live Events and Ad-Supported Plans

The updated Netflix app introduces support for live events, giving users access to real-time streaming of select content, something previously unavailable on the app. This marks a shift for Netflix, offering both on-demand and live content in one app. For those who prefer to watch live sports and entertainment on Windows computers, this is good news.

Additionally, the app now includes ad-supported subscription plans, which allow users to enjoy Netflix at a lower cost, with periodic ads during content playback. This change makes the platform more accessible for those seeking budget-friendly streaming options.

Transition to a Web-Based App (PWA)

One of the most notable changes in the update is Netflix's transition from a native app to a Progressive Web App (PWA). While this move allows for faster updates and better integration across devices, it also means that some features are no longer available. The PWA essentially runs Netflix through the Microsoft Edge browser but acts like a standalone app. When you launch the latest Netflix app for Windows, you'll notice that the Netflix "app" opens netflix.com in a Microsoft Edge container.

Another drawback of the Web-based app is that Netflix no longer supports 5.1 surround sound on Windows, which is only available on the Netflix native app. The new app only provides standard stereo sound as it's powered by a web-based experience.

Limited Streaming Quality

When Netflix stops providing standalone apps for Windows, the video quality will follow the quality that the browser can provide. To differentiate Netflix's maximum video quality performance in different browsers, we'll present it in a table form.

According to this table, the Microsoft Edge browser-based app streaming quality remains at UHD (2160p), and while some content previously offered in 4K resolution, the new version might cap out at 2160p for most shows and movies. Users with high-end displays may not notice a significant difference in visual fidelity.

Part 5. Conclusion

The Netflix experience on Windows 10 and 11 is evolving with significant updates. While the updated Netflix app for Windows brings the excitement of live events and the option of ad-supported plans, it also marks the notable removal of the direct download feature.

Fortunately, for users who value offline access to their favorite Netflix content, a solution exists: StreamUlt Netflix Video Downloader. This robust tool empowers you to continue downloading Netflix movies on your Windows PC, ensuring your entertainment isn't tethered to an internet connection.