Netflix is a subscription-based video-on-demand (SVOD) platform launched in 2007. It focuses on bringing a wide variety of content, like original shows and movies, as well as licensed content. Netflix was originally a DVD-by-mail service in 1997. Today, Netflix is the leading streaming service in the world with over 200 million subscribers from 190 countries. Netflix has been available in Canada since September 22, 2010.
Netflix’s biggest benefit over its competitors is the commitment to create their own content like original TV shows, movies and miniseries.Stranger Things, “Bridgerton” and “DAHMER” are some of Netflix’s most successful original creations, that have drawn in a massive global audience over the years.
Netflix’s biggest drawback is the lack of consistent quality across their extensive library. Despite Netflix releasing a significant amount of originals, its users often come across a lot of mediocre movies and shows, so it’s not always easy to find those high quality productions.
Netflix Canada Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ An extensive content selection of over 4,000 movies and 2,000 series | ✘ Recurring price hikes |
✔ Massive library of Netflix Originals | ✘ Inconsistent quality of original content |
✔ Large selection of licensed shows and movies | ✘ Frequent content rotation |
✔ One of the most advanced and user-friendly interfaces | ✘ Geo-locked content |
✔ High-quality video resolutions (HD, 4K) | ✘ No free trial |
✔ Includes free mobile games | ✘ Frequent show cancellations |
✔ Offline viewing and multiple profiles | |
✔ Available in over 190 countries |
How Much Does Netflix Cost in Canada? (2024)
Netflix Canada offers three plans: Standard with Ads (CAD $5.99/mo), Standard (CAD $16.49/mo), and Premium (CAD $20.99/mo).
See the table below for its plans and other inclusions:
Plan | Price | Number of simultaneous screens | Downloads | Streaming quality | With ads |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard with ads | CAD$5.99 | 2 devices | No | HD | Yes |
Standard | CAD$16.49 | 2 devices | Yes | HD | No |
Premium | CAD$20.99 | 4 devices | Yes | HD to 4K | No |
Netflix also rolled out a password-sharing policy for users who want to share their accounts with people outside their households. Adding another user costs CAD$7.99, and is only available on the Standard and Premium plans.
The table reveals how Netflix’s most expensive plan (Premium) offers better features and services compared to its lower-priced counterparts. Only the Premium plan permits four simultaneous streams and provides 4K video resolution.
How Does Netflix’s Pricing Compare to Competitors in Canada?
Netflix’s pricing is based on its content selection and features, which closely align with its major competitors like Disney Plus and Crave.
Streaming service | Most similar plans | Monthly Price | Simultaneous streams | Content Library | Downloads | Streaming quality |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Netflix | Premium(no ads) | CAD$20.99 | 4 devices | Netflix Originals + licensed shows and movies | Up to 100 downloads | HD to 4K |
Crave | Premium(no ads) | CAD$22.00 | 4 devices | Crave Originals + shows and movies from HBO, STARZ, Super Ecran + live TV | Up to 20 downloads | HD to 4K |
Disney Plus | Premium(no ads) | CAD$14.99 | 4 devices | Original movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, MCU, Star Wars | Unlimited downloads | HD to 4K |
The comparison above reveals that Netflix is priced competitively within the Canadian streaming market, it is cheaper than Crave, but more expensive than Disney Plus.
Crave is the most expensive from the three providers, although it only allows a maximum of 20 downloads. However, it is important to note that Crave also offers access to live TV, unlike Netflix, which justifies its slightly expensive fee.
Who is Netflix a Good Choice For?
Netflix is a good choice for several viewer profiles, such as
- Fanatics of Originals: Netflix reigns supreme when it comes to producing the most popular original content that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re thrilled to discover the hottest shows of the moment, look no further than Netflix.
- Tech-Savvy Users: Netflix boasts one of the most advanced and user-friendly interfaces among its competitors, giving users a seamless streaming experience. This focus on user experience sets Netflix apart from other services like Prime Video, which is notorious for its confusing homepage, as well as frequent buffering and lagging issues.
- Avid binge-watchers: On Netflix, you can stream the complete seasons and episodes of your favorite series, making Netflix the perfect choice for those who crave uninterrupted viewing marathons. Unlike services like Hulu, which might only offer a few seasons of a show, Netflix lets you enjoy an entire series at your own pace.
However, Netflix is not the ideal streaming service, if you prefer the below features:
- live TV: Netflix doesn’t offer any live TV options and only focuses on on-demand content. So, if you’re a sports fan or you regularly tune in to live news programs, you’re better off with other services like Crave or Hulu.
- Niche content: Netflix doesn’t offer too much niche content, it excels in mainstream TV shows and movies that appeals to the general public. If you want a curated arthouse film selection, consider services like MUBI or The Criterion Channel instead, for a more arthouse experience.
- You’re a fan of other franchises: Despite Netflix’s massive library, some franchises are not available in its content library. If you’re a fan of Disney, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars, or Warner Bros. films, then Disney Plus or Max might be a better choice due to their exclusive libraries and back catalogs.
What Should You Know About the Netflix Subscription?
Does Netflix Canada offer a free trial?
No, Netflix does not offer a free trial since 2020, so there is no option at the moment to stream on Netflix for free.
How can I pay for my Netflix subscription?
To pay for your Netflix subscription, make sure to prepare a Canada-issued form of payment. Netflix accepts credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, virtual cards, (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), and Netflix gift cards. Payment partners like Telus Package, Rogers, and Shaw also allow you to add Netflix to your bill.
Does Netflix offer gift cards?
Yes, Netflix offers gift cards. They can be used to pay for your subscription or to give as a present to family or friends. You can buy them at various retail stores in Canada like Walmart, Shoppers Drug Market, Loblaws, and PC Game Supply, or redeem them through the Netflix website.
How does Netflix’s billing cycle work?
Netflix’s billing cycle operates every month. After signing up, you will be immediately charged for the first month of your subscription. Once you’ve completed your first month, you will be billed automatically on the same day every month unless you cancel your subscription.
Can I change my Netflix plan anytime?
Yes, you can cancel your Netflix plan anytime by following these steps:
- Open your Netflix account.
- Select “Change Plan.”
- Choose your preferred plan, then select “Continue” or “Update.”
- To finalize the changes, select “Confirm.”
Upgrading your plan to a pricier one takes effect immediately. Your billing date will also be changed based on the remaining balance of your last payment.
On the other hand, downgrading your plan to a much cheaper subscription takes effect on your next billing date. This lets you enjoy your current subscription’s features until your next billing date.
Can I cancel my Netflix subscription anytime?
Yes, you can cancel your Netflix subscription anytime. Simply visit your Account Page, look under the Membership & Billing or Membership section, and select “Cancel Membership.”
The cancellation will take effect at the end of your billing period, so you can still use your account if you still have time left in your billing period. Canceling your subscription is free, so there’s no need to worry about hidden charges.
Netflix will also keep your viewing history, recommendations, ratings, account details, and saved games for 10 months after you cancel, so it will still be available if you reactivate your subscription within that period. If you fail to rejoin Netflix in 10 months, then all your streaming data will be permanently deleted.
What Can I Watch on Netflix Canada?
On Netflix Canada, you can stream a wide variety of content including popular original shows like “Stranger Things,” “The Crown,” “Black Mirror,” “Sex Education,” Narcos,” “Squid Game,” “Money Heist,” to name a few.
Netflix Canada also includes critically acclaimed original movies like “The Irishman,” “Society of the Snow,” “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,” and “Bird Box.”
Aside from originals, there is also plenty of licensed content on Netflix, including beloved shows like “Breaking Bad,” “Peaky Blinders,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “How to Get Away with Murder,” “Suits,” “Better Call Saul,” and “Gilmore Girls.”
For individuals who appreciate Canadian productions, Netflix also offers a plethora of homegrown titles including, “Anne with an E,” “Workin’ Moms,” “Trailer Park Boys,” “Kim’s Convenience,” and “Alias Grace.”
Netflix has recently closed a deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, which aims to bring coveted HBO titles onto the platform. Through this merger, Netflix users can now stream fan-favorite HBO shows like “Sex and the City,” “Band of Brothers,” and “Six Feet Under,” without subscribing to Max. You can expect more HBO shows to arrive on Netflix in no time.
Unlike some competitors, Netflix typically has the complete episodes and seasons of most shows, making it a binge-watching haven for viewers who prioritize an uninterrupted viewing experience.
But this convenience comes with a caveat: Netflix is notorious for frequently removing licensed shows without warning. Even worse, they cancel fan-favorite originals (“Mindhunter,” “Bojack Horseman”) before they even reach their final seasons, often without any explanation. Our advice? Do a quick availability check before you commit to a 20-season epic.
Netflix has established itself as a content paradise, but that doesn’t mean that everything it releases is always worth watching. When browsing through Netflix’s endless stream of content, be sure to discern quality amidst the quantity. Not every Netflix original is a hidden gem worth discovering!
Before you decide to click play on a show or movie, take some time to check ratings and critic reviews. This can help you assess audience reception and avoid wasting precious binge-watching time on a show that might not resonate with you.
Does Netflix Canada Offer Kids’ Content and Parental Controls?
Yes, Netflix Canada offers kids content and implements strong parental controls. The platform has a separate kids profile exclusively for children, which includes age-appropriate content such as educational shows and movies.
We highly recommend Netflix Canada’s kids’ section, as it offers an impressive library of both original titles and classic children’s stories. Popular animated series such as “Spongebob Squarepants,” “Cocomelon,” “Minions,” and “Peppa Pig,” are all available on Netflix. Early teenage viewers can also enjoy the programs in the kids’ section, including beloved shows like “iCarly” and “Victorious.”
Netflix imposes robust parental controls, allowing parents to customize their children’s viewing experience by restricting content based on their maturity rating. Additionally, parents have the option to set up a pin for the non-kids profiles to restrict access to content unsuitable for children.
Is Everything on Netflix Available in Canada?
No, not every title on Netflix is available in Netflix Canada. This is due to geo-restrictions and licensing agreements that vary from country to country.
However, it is still possible to access region-locked content by subscribing to VPN providers, like ExpressVPN. Do keep in mind that using VPNs is against Netflix’s terms of service, and can potentially result in the suspension or termination of your account.
Also, some titles may have been initially available on Netflix Canada but were ultimately removed due to content rotation. The frequent removal of content happens due to licensing agreements between Netflix and content providers, which often have expiration dates or renewal terms, ultimately dictating the availability of certain titles in some regions.
What Are Netflix Canada’s Key Features?
Netflix Canada’s key features include an extensive and diverse content selection, personalized recommendations, simultaneous streaming on multiple devices, high-quality video resolutions, and a sophisticated and sleek user interface.
What streaming quality does Netflix offer?
Netflix offers HD and 4K streaming resolutions. It also supports different dynamic ranges like the Dolby Vision and HDR10. Most Netflix titles play in HD, but streaming in 4K or HDR will still depend on whether your device is compatible with such features.
If you want to achieve the perfect 4K quality, make sure that your device is plugged into an HDMI port that supports HDCP 2.2 or later (usually the HDMI 1 port).
What devices can I watch Netflix on?
You can stream Netflix on the following Internet-connected devices:
TVs and streaming devices
Amazon Fire TV/Stick
Hisense
LG
Panasonic
Philips
Roku TV/Stick
Samsung
Sharp
Sony
TCL
Vestel
Vizio
Mobile phones and tablets
Android phone or tablet
iPhone or iPad
Amazon Fire tablet
Windows tablet
Computers
Mac
Windows
Chromebooks
Set-top and cable TV boxes
Fibe TV
Shaw
Rogers
Access Communications
NorthwesTel
Cogeco
Video game consoles
Sony PlayStation 3
Sony PlayStation 4
Sony PlayStation 4 Pro
Sony PlayStation 5
Xbox 360
Xbox One
Xbox One S
Xbox One X
Does Netflix have a user-friendly interface?
Yes, Netflix has a user-friendly interface. We think Netflix boasts one of the sleekest interfaces among its competitors with its minimalist yet functional design that prioritizes ease of use and accessibility.
Its homepage is neatly organized, with shows and movies sorted accordingly by genre, popularity, or release dates. There’s also a top 10 chart showcasing the most trending content, which allows users to discover what’s currently popular on the platform.
Its playback controls are pretty straightforward with easily accessible play, pause, rewind, and “Next Episode” buttons.
Netflix also has an intuitive search function, letting users quickly find shows or movies they’re interested in.
Personalized recommendations based on users’ viewing history are also displayed, making it easier to find new and similar content.
Can I download shows and movies for offline viewing?
Yes, you can download shows and movies for offline viewing on Netflix. Netflix allows Standard and Premium users a maximum of 100 downloads. This functionality is beneficial mostly for frequent travelers or individuals who are not always connected to the Internet.
Conclusion: Is Netflix Worth the Money?
Yes, Netflix is still worth the money despite the increasing competition in the streaming market, especially if you enjoy streaming original and popular content. With its ever-expanding selection of exclusive productions that span various genres, Netflix offers a treasure trove of endless entertainment options that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re into heartfelt drama, gripping thrillers, engaging documentaries, or mind-bending sci-fi, Netflix ensures there’s always something for everyone.
Just be mindful of frequent price increases and originals that are not always a guaranteed hit.
FAQ
Do I need a VPN to access Netflix in Canada?
No, you don’t need a VPN to access Netflix in Canada since it is available in the country. However, if you happen to be outside Canadian borders and you want to stream Netflix Canada’s content, then subscribe to a VPN provider to bypass geo-restrictions.
Can I still share my Netflix account with other people?
Yes. However, only people within the same household are allowed to share passwords. If you want to add another person outside your household to your account, it will cost an additional CAD$7.99/month. Take note that this feature is only available for Premium and Standard subscribers.
Does Netflix still offer DVD rentals?
No, Netflix’s DVD by mail and rental services have been discontinued since September 29, 2023.