Netflix is one of the most popular streaming platforms worldwide, offering thousands of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and original series. To improve offline viewing, Netflix allows subscribers to download videos on mobile devices and Windows apps. However, these official downloads come with significant limitations: they expire, are protected by DRM, and can only be played within the Netflix app.
As a result, many users search for ways to download Netflix to MP4, a widely supported video format that works across devices, media players, USB drives, and smart TVs.
In this guide, we'll explore two proven ways to convert Netflix to MP4 - one using a professional Netflix downloader on Windows and Mac, and the other using an online screen recording tool. We'll also explain the differences between downloading and recording, compare both methods, and answer the most common FAQs related to Netflix MP4 conversion.
Part 1. Why Convert Netflix Downloads to MP4 Format?
While Netflix provides a built-in download feature, DRM (Digital Rights Management) restrictions mean you 'rent' rather than own the files. Converting Netflix downloads to MP4 bypasses these limitations, providing true ownership and unrestricted offline playback across any device. In fact, this process resolves several common issues below:
1. Netflix Downloads Expire
Netflix offline downloads are not permanent. Some titles expire in 48 hours after playback starts, while others disappear once the license period ends. Converting Netflix videos to MP4 removes time restrictions entirely.
2. Playback Is Limited to the Netflix App
Netflix downloads can only be watched inside the Netflix app on supported devices. You cannot open them in VLC, Windows Media Player, QuickTime, or other media players. MP4 files, on the other hand, are universally compatible.
3. No Support for USB, SD Cards, or TVs
Official Netflix downloads cannot be transferred to a USB drive, SD card, or external hard drive. This makes it impossible to watch Netflix videos offline on smart TVs, car entertainment systems, or projectors. Instead, MP4 files can be freely transferred and almost played anywhere.
4. Device and Account Restrictions
Netflix downloads are tied to a specific account, device, and region. Once you switch devices or travel abroad, some downloads may become unavailable. MP4 videos are device-independent and region-free.
For these reasons, converting Netflix movies to MP4 has become a practical solution for users who want true offline freedom and long-term access.
Part 2. How to Convert Netflix Videos to MP4 on Mac & Windows [Best Way]
If you are looking for the most stable, high-quality, and efficient way to download Netflix videos to MP4, using a professional desktop tool is the best option. AudFree Netflix Video Downloader is designed specifically to remove Netflix DRM and save videos in MP4 or MKV format on Windows and Mac.
This AudFree Netflix to MP4 Downloader offers various output settings, including setting the video quality to high/medium/low, selecting the audio channel as stereo/surround 5.1 audio, choosing subtitles in embedded/independent type, and offering multiple audio languages. Besides, you can download Netflix videos in up to 1080p. If you wish, you can download the independent audio and subtitles from the video.
How to Convert Netflix to MP4 Using AudFree Netflix Video Converter (Step-by-Step)
- Step 1. Launch the AudFree Netflix to MP4 Downloader
- Download and install AudFree Netflix Video Downloader on your Windows or Mac computer. Launch the program after installation. Use the built-in Netflix web player to sign in to your Netflix account. This allows the software to access licensed content securely. Please note that you need an active Netflix subscription to access all Netflix content.
- Step 2. Set Netflix video output settings
- On the homepage, click the 'Menu' icon and then hit 'Preferences'. In the pop-up window, click the 'Download' tab. You should set 'Video Format' as 'MP4'. Then, change other parameters as needed, such as video quality, audio language, subtitle type, and output folder. The final step is to click 'OK' to save your preferences.
- Step 3. Add Netflix Videos to Conversion List
- Now, you need to add the shows you want to download. You can enter the movie or TV show name directly in the search bar, or paste the Netflix video URL to locate the content instantly. Next, click the content and then click the '+' icon from the bottom-right corner.
- Step 4. Download Netflix to MP4 locally
- In the new pop-up window, you can select the episodes of the added video. And you can change the 'Video', 'Audio' or 'Subtitle' settings. When everything is ready, please hit on the 'Download' button to start downloading Netflix to MP4. Once completed, the downloaded MP4 files can be played offline on any device, transferred to USB drives, or backed up permanently.
Compared to recording methods, AudFree tool downloads Netflix videos directly without real-time playback. This ensures higher video quality, faster speed, stable performance, and no watermarks, making it the preferred solution for long-term Netflix offline viewing.
Pros and Cons of AudFree Netflix Video Downloader
Direct Netflix video downloading (not screen recording);
High-quality output up to 1080p;
Batch download at high speed;
Multiple audio tracks and subtitles supported;
No expiration or playback limitations;
No watermarks or ads
Desktop software installation required;
Need a paid license (free trial available)
Part 3. How to Record Netflix Movie to MP4 Online Free
If you prefer a free and installation-free solution, an online screen recorder can be an alternative. Apowersoft Online Screen Recorder allows users to record Netflix movies and save them as MP4 files directly from a web browser.
✅ Works directly in a web browser
✅ No full software installation required
✅ Records Netflix videos in MP4 format
✅ Supports system sound recording
✅ Free version available
How to Rip Netflix to MP4 with Apowersoft
Step 1. Open Apowersoft Online Screen Recorder
Visit the Apowersoft Online Screen Recorder website and launch the online MP4 recorder.
Step 2. Play the Netflix Video
Open Netflix in your browser, sign in to your account, and start playing the movie or episode you want to record. Switch to full-screen mode for best results.
Step 3. Set Recording Area and Audio
Return to the Apowersoft recorder page and click 'Start Recording'. Enable system sound recording and disable the microphone if needed.
Step 4. Start and Stop Recording
Click the Continue recording button and select the screen region where Netflix is playing. Recording will begin automatically. Once the video finishes, stop the recording and save the Netflix videos as MP4.
The online version of Apowersoft is completely free and requires no installation. However, the 'maximum recording length is limited to one hour', making it better suited for short clips rather than full movies or entire TV seasons. Apowersoft also offers a browser extension with similar recording steps and limitations.
Pros and Cons of Apowersoft Online Screen Recorder
Free to use;
No software installation required;
Simple and beginner-friendly
Recording is done in real time (very slow);
Video quality may be compressed or reduced;
Possible black screen or audio capture issues;
Maximum recording length is limited to 1 hour;
Not suitable for long movies or TV series
Part 4. Comparison of 2 Netflix to MP4 Converters
After reviewing Part 2 and Part 3, you now understand how to rip Netflix videos to MP4 using either a professional Netflix downloader or an online screen recorder. However, you may still wonder which method is better for your specific needs.
To help you make an informed decision, the table below compares the key features, performance, and use cases of a Netflix to MP4 downloader versus a Netflix MP4 recorder.
| Feature | AudFree Netflix Video Downloader | Apowersoft Online Screen Recorder |
|---|---|---|
| Conversion Method | Direct download | Screen recording |
| Output Format | MP4 / MKV | MP4 |
| Video Quality | Up to 1080p HD | Depends on recording |
| Download Speed | Fast | Real-time only |
| Batch Supported | ✅ | ❌ |
| Stability | High | Medium (possible pop-up interruptions) |
| Audio Language Options | Up to 29 languages | Single system audio |
| Watermark | No | Possible in free version |
| Best For | Full movies & TV series | Short clips or samples |
| Rating | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️ |
Which Netflix to MP4 Converter Should You Choose?
From the comparison above, AudFree Netflix Video Downloader clearly stands out as the more professional, stable, and efficient solution for downloading Netflix videos to MP4. It offers higher video quality, faster speed, multi-language support, and true offline playback without expiration.
By contrast, Apowersoft Online Screen Recorder works as a free alternative for occasional use but comes with notable limitations, such as real-time recording, reduced quality, and restricted recording length. As a result, it is better suited for short clips rather than full-length movies or entire Netflix series.
If your goal is long-term offline viewing with maximum flexibility, a dedicated Netflix to MP4 downloader is the recommended choice.
Part 5. FAQs About Downloading or Converting Netflix to MP4
Is it legal to convert Netflix videos to MP4?
The legality depends on your local copyright laws. In general, converting Netflix videos for personal offline viewing only is often tolerated, while redistributing or sharing converted content is not allowed. Always comply with local regulations and Netflix's terms of service.
Are there 'Netflix to MP4' downloaders for Android?
Unfortunately, no. Currently, most reliable Netflix to MP4 downloaders are available only for Windows and Mac. Android apps claiming to download Netflix to MP4 often fail due to DRM restrictions or security concerns.
What's the difference between downloading and recording Netflix to MP4?
Downloading extracts the video directly and preserves original quality, while recording captures the screen during playback. Downloading is faster, higher quality, and more stable, whereas recording is slower and may reduce video quality.
Can I play Netflix MP4 downloads in VLC Media Player?
Yes. Once Netflix videos are converted to MP4, they can be played in VLC Media Player, Windows Media Player, QuickTime, and most other media players without restrictions.
In Summary
Downloading Netflix to MP4 is the most effective way to break free from Netflix's offline limitations and enjoy unrestricted playback across devices. While Netflix's official downloads are convenient, they are heavily restricted by DRM, expiration rules, and device limitations.
Among the two methods discussed, AudFree Netflix Video Downloader offers the best overall experience with high quality, fast speed, and permanent MP4 files. Online screen recording tools like Apowersoft can work for basic needs but are not ideal for long-term or large-scale downloads.
By choosing the right method, you can build a personal Netflix MP4 library and enjoy true offline viewing anytime, anywhere.
Adam Eldon
Staff Editor
