Tag Archives: streaming

Disney+ US vs. Canada: Which Wins on Content?

Anyone who considers Disney+ a “kids-only” streaming service needs to have another look, as it has grown well beyond that. With Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, National Geographic, and a massive film vault under its belt, it’s a serious contender for adults as well.

But if you’ve ever compared notes with friends across the border, you’ve probably noticed an interesting detail: Disney+ in the United States and Disney+ in Canada don’t quite look the same.

So which version offers the better content library? Let’s break down how Disney+ US and Disney+ Canada stack up against each other.

Comparing the Content Libraries: US vs. Canada

At their core, both Disney+ US and Canada share the same foundation. They both have Disney classics like The Lion King and Aladdin; Pixar favorites such as Toy Story, and Finding Nemo; Marvel heavy-hitters like Avengers: Endgame; and Star Wars staples like The Mandalorian.

The real differences start to appear once you move beyond the core Disney brands. The way each country handles “general entertainment” content is what truly separates the two libraries.

US-Exclusive Strengths

Disney’s business partnerships are different on either side of the border, and that alone really affects the selection of content.

The biggest advantage Disney+ has in the United States is its integration with Hulu. In the US, many subscribers can access Hulu content directly inside the Disney+ app, dramatically expanding the library.

This means US viewers often get access to more adult-oriented and prestige TV content, such as:

  • The Bear – the critically acclaimed kitchen drama that’s become a cultural phenomenon
  • Only Murders in the Building – starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez
  • The Handmaid’s Tale – Hulu’s flagship dystopian series
  • Atlanta – Donald Glover’s genre-bending comedy-drama

On the movie side, US users benefit from Hulu’s deeper catalog of non-Disney films, including:

  • Prey (the Predator prequel)
  • No Country for Old Men
  • Parasite
  • A rotating selection of Fox and Searchlight titles

For viewers who want Disney+ to function as a one-stop streaming hub for both family-friendly and content for mom and dad, the US version has a clear edge.

Canada-Exclusive Strengths

Canada doesn’t have Hulu, but instead gets the Star hub built directly into Disney+. While Star overlaps with some Hulu content, it also has its own strengths and a more straightforward setup. No separate service is required.

Canadian subscribers often enjoy strong access to:

  • FX series like The Americans, Sons of Anarchy, and Justified
  • Popular crime and drama shows such as 24, Prison Break, and The Shield
  • Comedy staples like Modern Family and How I Met Your Mother

In terms of movies, Star boosts the Canadian catalog with a wide range of Fox and Touchstone titles, including:

  • Die Hard
  • Speed
  • Gone Girl
  • The Grand Budapest Hotel

One advantage Canadian customers enjoy is simplicity: there’s no bundle so you don’t need to manage Hulu separately. Everything Disney, including Marvel, Star Wars, and shows for the parents, lives under one subscription.

Why Disney+ Differs in the US and Canada

So why did Disney go to all that effort to make Disney+ different in the US and Canada? It mostly comes down to licensing and regional business strategies.

In the US, Disney already owned and operated Hulu long before expanding Disney+ into a broader platform. Rather than folding Hulu completely into Disney+, Disney chose to keep it as a semi-separate brand that integrates with Disney+ for some subscribers.

Internationally, including in Canada, Hulu doesn’t exist. To compete with services like Netflix and Prime Video, Disney created the Star hub to house more mature and licensed content directly inside Disney+.

Which Library Is Better Overall?

Many Canadians can’t help but wonder if the grass is greener for Disney+ customers in the US. Really, there’s no universal winner. It depends on what you like to watch.

  • If you want prestige TV, buzzy originals, and a deep bench of critically acclaimed series, Disney+ US (with Hulu access) usually comes out ahead.
  • If you want an all-in-one service without juggling multiple apps or subscriptions, Disney+ Canada offers a cleaner, more unified experience.

For pure volume and variety, the US library tends to feel larger. For convenience and balance, Canada holds its own surprisingly well.

Who Should Choose US vs. Canada

If given the choice, which version of Disney+ is better for you and your family? Let’s dive into that with a big-picture analysis.

Disney+ US is better suited for:

  • Viewers who love award-winning TV dramas and comedies
  • Households already invested in Hulu content
  • Adults who want Disney+ to replace multiple streaming services

Disney+ Canada is ideal for:

  • Families who want both kid-friendly and adult content in one place
  • Fans of FX, Fox, and Star titles without extra subscriptions
  • Viewers who appreciate simplicity over sheer volume

Unlocking Both Libraries with a VPN

Yes, it’s possible to get both.

Some streaming fans use VPNs to explore different regional Disney+ libraries. A VPN can allow access to content available in another country by routing your connection through that region. Essentially, it protects your online privacy by replacing your IP address with a different IP of your choosing.

If you, like Aerosmith, don’t want to miss a thing, check out LetMeBy’s top VPNs for Disney+ here.

It’s worth noting that the ability to access libraries can change, and it’s worth reviewing Disney+’s terms of service before experimenting with a VPN.

Conclusion

Disney+ US and Canada are built on the same iconic brands, but they cater to slightly different audiences. The US version leans heavily into prestige television and Hulu-powered variety. Canada’s Star-enhanced library offers a more streamlined, all-in-one experience.

The “winner” ultimately depends on which movies and shows you’re into. Whether you’re binge-watching The Bear, feeling nostalgic with Die Hard, or introducing your kids to Star Wars for the first time, Disney+ delivers a lot of magic on either side of the border.

Prime Video US vs. Canada: Which Wins on Content?

Amazon Prime Video has become one of the go-to streaming platforms worldwide, offering blockbuster movies, binge-worthy series, and a growing library of originals.

While access to content produced by and made for Canadians is a nice perk, at the end of the day, Americans and Canadians alike want to watch the movies and shows everyone is talking about. But did you know that Prime Video isn’t the same everywhere? In fact, viewers in the United States and Canada get noticeably different experiences.

If you’re wondering which country has the better Prime Video library, or if it’s worth finding a solution to unlock both, this breakdown will help you decide.

Comparing the Content Libraries: US vs. Canada

While both Prime Video US and Prime Video Canada share many titles, the US library is larger. Researchers at Comparitech found that the US library has around 12,150 titles, while Canada has close to 9,900 titles.

This isn’t unusual—streaming rights are often negotiated country by country, and the US tends to secure the broadest access. Canadian subscribers still enjoy plenty of top-tier movies, shows, and Amazon Originals, but the sheer volume of options is more limited compared to the US.

Beyond the numbers, the Canadian and US versions of Prime Video differ in the categories that they excel at. Let’s look at that next.

US-Exclusive Strengths

Although licensing changes over time, users have reported that TV shows such as The Americans, Archer, and earlier seasons of Survivor are available in the US but not in Canada.

Prime Video US tends to dominate when it comes to:

  • Exclusive blockbuster films: Popular Hollywood titles often land on the US platform first, especially newer releases.
  • Older TV series: American classics and long-running sitcoms are more widely available.
  • Niche categories: Genres like documentaries, indie films, and cult favorites go deeper and are better curated in the US library.
  • Sports add-ons: The US market offers additional channels like NFL Thursday Night Football, which are absent in Canada.

Canada-Exclusive Strengths

Some content is not only produced in Canada but is also uniquely Canadian. Titles that are available exclusively to audiences in the true north include Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make-Believe, LOL: Last One Laughing Canada, and The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal.

Prime Video Canada, while smaller in scale, has its own unique strengths:

  • Canadian film and TV content: More locally produced shows and movies are accessible thanks to regional licensing.
  • Partnerships with local broadcasters: Some Canadian-only agreements bring in titles that aren’t in the US, including certain BBC series and international films.
  • Stronger kids’ content selection: Families in Canada may find more variety in children’s programming compared to the US library.

Why Prime Video Differs in the US and Canada

So, why does Prime Video modify its libraries to suit each country?

The differences come down to licensing and regional demand. Studios sell streaming rights by territory, which means what’s available in one country may be missing in another.

Amazon also tailors its offerings to local tastes and regulations. For example, Canada requires a certain level of domestic content, which is why Canadian subscribers see more homegrown programming. People who grew up with shows like the Polka Dot Door and Mr. Dressup have a special place in their hearts for Canadian content.

Which Library Is Better Overall?

Many times, Canadians can’t help but wonder if the grass is greener for Americans.

For most viewers, Prime Video US is the stronger option simply because of its size and variety. If you want maximum choice, it’s tough to beat the US library. That said, Canadian Prime Video isn’t lacking—especially if you enjoy Canadian films, family programming, and certain international partnerships not found stateside.

Who Should Choose US vs. Canada

So, if you had to choose, which version would be best suited to your viewing preferences? Let’s get to the heart of what makes each one great.

Prime Video US is best for: Viewers who want the largest possible catalog, fans of blockbuster releases, sports lovers, and anyone who enjoys niche genres.

Prime Video Canada is best for: Families seeking strong kids’ content, fans of Canadian cinema and TV, and those who want access to a handful of exclusives not found in the US.

Unlocking Both Libraries with a VPN

The good news? You don’t actually have to choose. With a VPN, you can switch your virtual location and access both the US and Canadian Prime Video libraries from one subscription. While this may require some extra setup, it gives you the best of both worlds.

Think of a VPN as an intermediate layer between your device and the internet. It works by hiding your true IP address and replacing it with an IP associated with a different location. This gives you a greater level of anonymity, security, as well as the flexibility to view the content you want to see most.

To learn about the top 3 VPN services recommended by LetMeBy, visit this page.

Conclusion

Amazon Prime Video offers terrific content in both the US and Canada, but the experience isn’t identical. The US library is larger and better suited for viewers who crave variety, while the Canadian version has its own hidden gems and exclusive partnerships.

If you’re a casual watcher, either country’s version will serve you well. You might never notice titles that are missing from the Canadian library that are available in the US. For the ultimate streaming experience, combining both with a VPN ensures you won’t miss a thing.

Netflix US vs. Canada: Which Wins on Content?

Does this story sound familiar? A Canadian Netflix subscriber hears about a hot new show on social media. The show is supposedly on Netflix, but it’s nowhere to be found.

Netflix is a global entertainment giant, but its content library varies significantly from country to country. In particular, Netflix US and Netflix Canada offer distinct collections of movies and TV shows, each with its strengths and weaknesses. While both regions share a vast number of popular titles, there are key differences that can make one library more appealing than the other.

Comparing Content Libraries

Netflix US once boasted a larger overall library compared to Netflix Canada. However, now Canada is on top.

According to recent data, Netflix US offers 6,389 titles in total, including about 2,438 TV shows and 3,951 movies. Meanwhile, Netflix Canada has approximately 6,734 titles, with about 2,376 TV shows and 4,358 movies.

This disparity in content is primarily due to regional licensing agreements and content acquisition strategies. It’s important to note that exclusives in the US and Canada change over time as Netflix’s libraries are constantly evolving.

US-Exclusive Titles

The main reason people want to use Netflix US outside of the US is to gain access to exclusives. Some movies and TV shows are only available to US subscribers.

Notable examples of these shows include Grey’s Anatomy and NCIS. Also, movies like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Joker, and May December are US exclusives.

US exclusives often include critically acclaimed series, blockbuster films, and niche genres that may not be accessible in other regions.

Canada-Exclusive Titles

Despite having a smaller library of TV shows, Netflix Canada offers unique content that can’t be found in the US. Additionally, Netflix Canada has more movies than Netflix US.

Movies like The Untouchables, The Hunt, and Blue Valentine are on Netflix Canada, but they currently can’t be streamed in the US. Some acclaimed movies like The Devil Wears Prada and The Shawshank Redemption aren’t on Netflix US either.

The exclusives on Netflix Canada often include Canadian-produced series, international films, and critically acclaimed indie content.

Why the Differences?

US and Canadian audiences enjoy much of the same content, so why does Netflix have different libraries for each country?

The differences in content libraries between Netflix US and Netflix Canada come down to licensing agreements. Netflix negotiates distribution rights with content creators and studios, and these agreements are often limited by country or region. As a result, Netflix may have the rights to stream a specific title in one country but not another.

Which Library Is Better?

Many Canadians wonder if the grass is greener in the US in terms of streaming content.

For most viewers, Netflix US is generally considered the superior library due to its larger selection of mainstream films and popular TV series. However, Netflix Canada is an attractive option for those seeking a blend of mainstream and international content, along with a curated selection of Canadian productions.

Netflix Canada’s library has been making big gains and it’s now larger than Netflix US. For sheer variety and quantity of movies, Canada has an edge.

Who Should Choose Netflix US?

  • Viewers looking for the latest blockbuster movies and trending TV shows
  • Fans of US-exclusive content, including classic shows like The Office (US), Charmed, and The Wonder Years
  • Those seeking the biggest movies and shows everyone is talking about

Who Should Choose Netflix Canada?

  • Fans of Canadian films and TV shows
  • Viewers interested in international and indie content
  • Those seeking a slightly more curated selection of titles

Using a VPN to Access Both Libraries

These days, the Netflix library you’re shown in your country is just the starting point.

For viewers who want the best of both worlds, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can provide access to both Netflix US and Netflix Canada libraries from anywhere in the world. However, Netflix actively works to detect and block VPN usage, so results may vary depending on the VPN provider.

Check out LetMeBy’s list of the top VPNs here.

Conclusion

So, which library is better? There’s no clear winner here. There are far more similarities than differences, but the differences stand out when you’re looking for a specific movie or show.

While Netflix US offers a broader selection of mainstream content, Netflix Canada stands out with its curated selection of Canadian and international titles. Ultimately, the better choice depends on individual viewing preferences. Though with a VPN, viewers can experience both libraries and enjoy all the content Netflix offers worldwide.

How to Watch US Netflix in Canada

Oh Canada, you’re lovely but Canadians can’t help but want the stuff Americans have. Although the CN Tower and Whistler’s ski resorts are iconic, sometimes one craves New Orleans’ cuisine or the energy of New York City.

Netflix Canada has come a long way. It ranks third in terms of having the most content and is one position behind the US which is second. Still, depending on your watching habits, many think that Netflix US is far ahead.

US Netflix Vs. Netflix Canada

On paper, there doesn’t seem to be a huge difference between the content library in Netflix US versus Canada. According to a snapshot of its content in 2022 Canada offered about 5,730 titles (both movies and TV shows). And Netflix in the US had 5,879 titles. That’s only 149 additional titles to choose from. However, don’t let the stats fool you!

Netflix US has the top-rated TV shows so many are itching to watch! Healer, The Best of Enemies, The Office, and Grey’s Anatomy are examples of popular shows that Canadian Netflix subscribers don’t get access to. The American version of Netflix shines when it comes to its selection of TV shows.

Netflix Canada has its strengths too. Canadians get access to some award-winning movies that Americans don’t such as Wind River, Hell or High Water, and Eastern Promises. Additionally, their Canadian library has some TV shows like Pretty Little Liars and Fresh Prince of Bel-Air which are nowhere to be found on US Netflix.

Why Netflix US has Awesome Shows Canadians Don’t Get

It’s a bit frustrating. Why are Canadian subscribers excluded from some of the best content on Netflix? First, we need a basic overview of how the TV and film industries work.

Although Netflix is the service that delivers all the programming the vast majority of its content is supplied by movie studios, television networks, and other providers.

Netflix signs contracts with each company that creates content so new titles can be added to their libraries. In those contracts, the studios and networks specify which regions get access to their titles and which ones don’t.

Thus, Netflix is simply following these contracts and delivering content according to the requirements of its creators. Most of us will never know exactly why The Office isn’t available to Canadians. Customers simply have to work with the cards they’re dealt.

How Netflix Knows Its Subscribers are Based in the US or Canada

When you visit Netflix’s website it automatically directs you to a regional version of their site. So, if you live in Canada it ensures you’re doing business with Netflix’s Canadian operations. It means you’re billed in CAD and get access exclusively to their content for Canadian subscribers.

Each time you use the Netflix app to watch programming the app detects where you’re located. Your smartphone, PC, or other device has an IP address associated with it. That IP is a quick, effective way for providers to know what country you’re accessing their service from.

So, in theory, it doesn’t matter if you signed up with Netflix Canada or Netflix US. What’s significant is the country you’re currently accessing Netflix from. To test this, Canadian subscribers can watch Netflix while they’re on vacation in the US. Voila, they’ll have full access to Netflix’s US content library.

How to Watch Netflix’s US-Only Content in Canada

To view the Netflix US content library, you need to appear to be in the US when the Netflix app or website checks your location.

The most effective way to watch Netflix in Canada is by using a VPN. What’s that? It means virtual private network. A VPN works between your internet service provider and the website or app you’re connecting to. It creates an intermediary layer that enhances your security and privacy online. VPNs make it easy to change your IP so you can choose an IP address that is associated with any country.

Over the years Netflix has detected that many users are accessing their app and website from the same IPs. So yes, they’re wise to the use of VPNs to view regional content. In fact, some IPs won’t work with Netflix, and some VPN services are better than others for streaming Netflix. If too many people are already using the same IP address users can be temporarily denied access. The good news is this is often solved simply by choosing a different IP address from those provided by your VPN.

Tips on Choosing the Right VPN for Watching Netflix

Netflix is constantly improving its tech and refining its policies. One example of this is their crackdown on password sharing which started at the end of 2022.

Before subscribing to a VPN service it’s advised that you check the latest posts on Reddit’s r/NetflixViaVPN community. Redditors there share which VPNs they’re using and which VPNs work with Netflix as well as which ones don’t.

To ensure you go with a solid VPN service overall read LetMeBy’s reviews of the top 3 VPN services.

Want the fastest answer? These are the VPNs most commonly recommended here for watching Netflix US in Canada:

When it comes to the best VPN services for streaming, speed is a key factor. HD video takes a good amount of bandwidth and all that data is sent through your VPN. Pretty much any VPN that requires a monthly subscription is speedy and capable of streaming high-quality video.

Are There Risks Associated with Watching Netflix US in Canada?

It’s clear that Netflix is aware that people use VPNs to unblock content and they’d rather their subscribers didn’t. Using a VPN is against their terms. However, a lot of Netflix subscribers have a VPN. It’s becoming more and more common to use VPNs for general internet use and most people that have one never turn it off.

Netflix aims to enforce its rules while keeping its subscribers. So, Netflix won’t toss you off its platform for watching TV shows and movies with a VPN. At worst an IP address provided to you by your VPN will be blocked by Netflix. In many cases, it’s just a question of choosing a different IP that isn’t on their radar.

Wrapping It Up

Some of the best TV shows are on Netflix US but Canadian subscribers don’t need to feel left out. A Canadian Netflix subscriber with a VPN gets the best of both worlds. This gives you access to content that Americans don’t get, plus all the exclusive content available in the US.

VPNs are handy for watching Netflix but that’s really just the beginning of their applications. Browsing the Web while knowing your every action isn’t being tracked is a liberating experience.

VPN Not Working with Netflix? Here’s How to Fix It

Have you used a VPN with Netflix then encountered an error page you weren’t expecting?

You’re not alone. Netflix wants their customers see content intended for their region only. And they’re well aware that plenty of users want to bypass that restriction.

If you reached an unplanned popcorn break, odds are this is the page that appeared:

So, is this the end of the road for using VPNs with Netflix?

Not at all! Although Netflix has made it harder to use a VPN to view content outside your region, it still works if you’re using an IP that hasn’t been identified as a VPN.

Quick reminder: To achieve anonymity VPNs replace your true IP address with an IP associated with the VPN service. So, for example If you select a US location with the VPN software it will mask your actual location and assign you with an IP address in the US that they own.

Now that everyone knows how it basically works, let’s look at how you can solve this issue.

How to Get Past the Netflix Streaming Error Page

1. Try a different server

If your VPN allows you to select a different IP located in the country you desire, try that.

It’s possible the IP you’re accustomed to using has been blocked by Netflix, but other IPs that can be selected with your VPN software work fine.

Of course, if you don’t have the option to select a different IP address directly, you’ll want to move to the next troubleshooting suggestions below.

2. Change the VPN protocol

Surprising as it may sound, sometimes you can work around the problem simply by switching to a different protocol with your VPN software.

There are a number of protocols in existence, however the ones you can utilize will vary depending on your VPN provider.

The most common VPN protocols are:

  • PPTP
  • L2TP/IPSec
  • OpenVPN
  • SSTP
  • IKEv2

Speed and the level of security is different with each protocol, and they all have their pros and cons.

The only one you should think twice about using is PPTP as this is the oldest protocol. The speed is decent but its security leaves much to be desired compared to the other options listed.

Of course, changing the VPN protocol is only a temporary measure if you’re forced to choose a protocol that doesn’t meet your standards. But in most cases, you won’t notice much of a difference.

3. Switch to another VPN

Not all VPNs are good choices for use with Netflix.

If you keep having to jump through hoops to get streaming to work, it could be time to look at alternative solutions.

Some VPN providers are focused on keeping their service working smoothly with Netflix, while its not on the radar for others.

Also, which service works and which doesn’t can change quickly. Some power users are signed up to more than one VPN service to improve their chances of having a solution at their fingertips.

Before switching, do your research to ensure other users are using Netflix without issues. There’s a Reddit group called NetflixViaVPN dedicated to the topic of using Netflix with a VPN. It’s helpful for finding the latest information.

Also, check out LetMeBy’s reviews of the top 3 VPN services as these are the best performers all-around.

How Does Netflix Know You’re Using a VPN?

Streaming services like Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix all have systems put in place that aim to detect if you’re using a VPN.

If your IP matches the IPs in their database that they’ve identified as VPNs you’ll get the streaming error page.

The good news is the best VPN services are always adding fresh IPs for their users to select as well as finding ways to allow their customers to keep using the services they love (such as Netflix).

Will Netflix Ban You for Using a VPN?

Although Netflix wants you to use their services as they intended, they don’t want lose you as a customer either.

Internet privacy aficionados have been using VPNs with Netflix for years and there are no reports about even receiving warnings from Netflix for this.

Thus, your Netflix account is safe.

Conclusion

Using a VPN with Netflix can be frustrating at times, but having access to content from different regions is a real game changer for film and TV buffs.

If you come across the dreaded Netflix streaming error page, don’t fret as there’s always a way around it. And if it’s just a question of changing your IP address, or your VPN protocol, consider it a good day.