Getting More From Your Netflix Subscription
Netflix is one of the most widely used streaming platforms in the world, but most subscribers only scratch the surface of what it offers. Beyond browsing the homepage and hitting play, there's a wealth of features designed to improve your experience — many of which go completely unnoticed.
1. Use the Secret Genre Codes
Netflix categorizes its library using thousands of specific genre codes. By typing netflix.com/browse/genre/[code] into your browser, you can access hyper-specific categories like "Critically Acclaimed Emotional Dramas" or "Cult Horror Movies." A quick search for "Netflix genre codes" will turn up community-maintained lists with hundreds of options.
2. Download for Offline Viewing
If you're on a mobile device or tablet, Netflix allows you to download a large portion of its library for offline viewing. This is perfect for flights, commutes, or areas with spotty Wi-Fi. Head to any title, tap the download icon, and it'll be saved to your device for a limited time.
3. Adjust Your Streaming Quality
Netflix automatically adjusts stream quality based on your connection, but you can manually set it. Navigate to Account > Playback Settings to choose Low, Medium, High, or Auto. This is especially useful for managing data usage on mobile plans.
4. Use "My List" as a Watch Queue
Rather than browsing endlessly every session, add titles to "My List" throughout the week. When it's time to watch, your curated queue is ready. Netflix also uses your list to further refine its recommendation algorithm.
5. Enable or Disable Autoplay
Auto-playing next episodes and previews can be turned off. Go to Manage Profiles, select your profile, and toggle the autoplay settings. This gives you more control over your viewing experience and reduces mindless scrolling.
6. Change Subtitle and Audio Language
During playback, click the speech bubble or audio icon to switch subtitle languages or audio tracks. Many international titles offer multiple dubs, and some English titles include audio description tracks for accessibility.
7. Rate Titles to Improve Recommendations
Netflix replaced its star ratings with a thumbs up/down system, but you can still fine-tune recommendations. Using the double thumbs up (on some interfaces) signals a strong preference, pushing more of that content to the top of your feed.
8. Manage Multiple Profiles
Each Netflix account supports up to five profiles. Set up separate profiles for each household member to keep recommendations, watch histories, and watchlists completely separate. You can even set a PIN on profiles to restrict content by maturity rating.
9. Check "New Releases" Regularly
Netflix adds new content constantly throughout the month, not just at the start. Bookmark the New & Popular row or check the "New on Netflix" section to stay current with the latest additions before they get buried.
10. Use Keyboard Shortcuts on Desktop
When watching on a browser, use these handy shortcuts:
- Space / K — Play/Pause
- F — Toggle fullscreen
- M — Mute/Unmute
- Left/Right Arrow — Skip back/forward 10 seconds
- Up/Down Arrow — Volume control
Make Every Subscription Count
With streaming costs rising, squeezing every bit of value from your subscription matters. These features won't cost you anything extra — they just require a little exploration. The more intentional you are with your Netflix experience, the more enjoyable and efficient it becomes.