You can't watch Netflix on a Nintendo Switch, but you can watch YouTube and Hulu — here's what you need to know

Updated

2020-12-30T21:37:56Z

Nintendo Switch

You can't watch Netflix on a Nintendo Switch, but you can watch shows and movies with other supported apps.
Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Nintendo
  • You can't watch Netflix on a Nintendo Switch, but you can stream content with YouTube, Hulu, and other supported apps.
  • Until January 2019, you could watch Netflix on an original Nintendo Wii, but the service was discontinued that month — although you can still access Netflix via the Wii U console.
  • Visit Business Insider's Tech Reference library for more stories .

There's a lot you can do with a Nintendo Switch beyond battling enemies in "Breath of the Wild" or racing against Wario and Bowser in "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe."

In fact, the Switch can also serve as your connection to some of your favorite programming. It supports apps for YouTube, Hulu, and more — and you can also connect your Nintendo Switch to a TV for an even better viewing experience.

While you can't watch Netflix on a Nintendo Switch, you can watch Hulu or YouTube.
Steven John/Business Insider

You can't watch Netflix on a Nintendo Switch, but you can on Wii U

If you want to watch Netflix , you'd better look for something other than a Nintendo Switch, because at the time of this writing, you can't get Netflix on the latest Nintendo gaming console.

There's a good chance there will be a Netflix app for the Switch in the future: the companies have had discussions in the past, and even partnered together on other Nintendo devices.

For years, you could watch Netflix programs using your Nintendo Wii console, but that option was suspended in January of 2019. However, you can still watch Netflix on Wii U, the console intended to replace the Wii (the Switch was far more popular instead).

You can watch Netflix on the Wii U gaming device.
Netflix/YouTube

It's not inconceivable that Netflix access on the Wii U may also sunset soon — ideally with access to the streaming platform popping up on the Switch in its place.

Related coverage from Tech Reference:

  • 'Can you watch Hulu on a Nintendo Switch?': Yes, you can — here's how to set up the Switch's Hulu app

  • 'Can you watch YouTube on a Nintendo Switch?': Yes, you can — here's how to download and use the YouTube app

  • 'What comes with a Nintendo Switch?': A guide to what's included with a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch Lite

  • How to connect your Nintendo Switch to a TV, and what to do if it won't connect

Steven John

Freelance Writer

Steven John is a freelance writer living near New York City by way of 12 years in Los Angeles, four in Boston, and the first 18 near DC. When not writing or spending time with his wife and kids, he can occasionally be found climbing mountains. His writing is spread across the web, and his books can be found at www.stevenjohnbooks.com.

Disclosure: Mathias Döpfner, CEO of Business Insider's parent company, Axel Springer, is a Netflix board member.

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More: Tech How To Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Lite Netflix

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