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How to watch Netflix shows

Find Netflix shows by searching titles, people, genres, or languages, or browse recommendations and new-release rows, then select a title to watch.

Netflix Help Center logo over a collage of show and movie artwork.
Image credit: help.netflix.com · View source

Netflix’s menus can look different across devices, but the main ways to find a show are to search for it or browse the recommendations on your home screen.

Prerequisites

  • An internet-connected device that can access Netflix, such as a compatible TV, phone, tablet, computer, or streaming device.

  • Access to a Netflix account. If you need help signing in or with your account, use the Netflix Help Center.

  • On a phone, tablet, or TV, open the Netflix app. On a computer, visit Netflix.

If you need instructions for connecting or using a particular device, check its manufacturer’s guidance or search the Netflix Help Center for device-specific support.

Find a show

Search by title, person, or category

  1. Open Netflix and sign in if prompted.

  2. Look for the Search icon in the app or on the website. Select it and enter a title, actor’s name, or genre. For example, try a show title, a performer’s name, or a category such as comedy.

  3. Review the results and choose the show you want. Netflix’s search and browse guide also lists searches for audio or original language, such as Spanish movies or Hindi-dubbed movies and TV.

Browse recommendations and new releases

  1. Start on the Netflix home screen. Browse the rows of recommended shows and movies.

  2. Use shortcuts such as Shows or Movies, if they appear on your device, to narrow the suggestions.

  3. To look for recent additions, check for sections such as New & Popular, Latest, New & Hot, New on Netflix, or Top 10. Names and availability vary by device, so you may not see every section.

Watch a show

Netflix player interface showing play button, 10-second skip controls, progress bar, and options for Episodes and Audio & Subtitles.
Dami Lee
  1. Select a show from search results or a home-screen row to open its details.

  2. Choose an available episode or season, if prompted, and select the play control to start watching.

  3. Use the on-screen controls to pause, resume, or choose another episode. Control layouts differ by device.

Troubleshooting

Netflix Help Center page showing search bar, error code input field, and links for account and playback issues.
Ben Stockton
  • A show is missing: Check that you searched the correct title or name. Netflix says a profile’s maturity rating and language preferences can affect what appears. Review the profile settings if you manage them, then search again.

  • Search or browsing looks different: Section names and shortcuts vary by device. Try the Search icon, or browse the home-screen rows instead.

  • Playback does not start or you cannot sign in: Check your internet connection and try again. For account or playback help, use the Netflix Help Center, where you can search help topics or select Contact Us.

Netflix’s help pages may change, and the available sections can differ by device. Refer to the official search and browsing instructions for current guidance.