By now many consumers are signed up to Netflix, enjoying the ability to stream shows, movies and more at their convenience. But, what many don’t know is that Netflix has also built in a few tricks to make a viewing experience more memorable.
Know all the computer shortcuts
These five keyboard shortcuts will help you navigate Netflix like a pro.
· F will give you full screen; Esc will take you out of it
· PgDn pauses, PgUp will play
· The spacebar will also pause and play
· Shift + Right Arrow will fast forward; Shift + Left Arrow will rewind
· M should toggle your mute button, depending on your computer
Save your data while on mobile
The Netflix mobile app on your phone or tablet lets you choose your Cellular Data Usage setting: Wi-Fi Only, Low, Medium, High, and Unlimited. Wi-Fi only keeps you from streaming when you’re not connected to a Wi-Fi network. If you have unlimited data on your plan, go for Unlimited, which uses about a GB every 20 minutes.
How to know which ISP to choose
Curious which Internet Service Provider (ISP) serves up the fastest speeds for a better streaming experience? Check out the Netflix ISP Speed Index which each month shows you which South African ISP supports the best Netflix experience: https://ispspeedindex.netflix.com/country/south-africa/
How to check your internet speeds
Next time Stranger Things starts buffering, use Netflix’s own speed test, Fast.com, to check the download speeds you’re getting from your ISP: https://fast.com/
How to find Netflix original programming
Netflix produced over 600 hours of original content in 2016. Type “Netflix” into the search bar to see a complete list of Netflix originals, all in one place.
How to quickly browse by genre
To see more, click the row names on the homepage in your browser. This will bring up a full gallery of TV shows and films within that genre.
Make sure you’re optimising for HD
If you have an HD TV make sure you are streaming in HD. Just go to Playback settings (https://www.netflix.com/HdToggle) to make sure you’re set up. Many live-action Netflix originals are shot in 4K for optimum viewing pleasure.
How to find UHD (4K and HDR) content
If you own an Ultra HD TV, type “4K” or “HDR” in the search bar to see a full list of TV shows and movies available in 4K resolution and HDR, respectively.
How to watch Netflix overseas
If you’re planning an overseas holiday there’s a pretty good chance your account will continue to work like magic. You will also have access to all of the titles available in that region while you’re over there.
How to access subtitles
All programs on Netflix have the option to add English subtitles — handy if you’re watching a cockney movie or are hard of hearing. To activate subtitles, select the movie or TV show you want to play, head to “Audio & Subtitles” in the options panel then press “Back” once you’re done. Your movie will now play with English subtitles.
How to change subtitle appearance
You can change the colour and font size of subtitles to match your eyesight or personal style preference. To do this, head to Your Account and select Subtitle Appearance. You can tweak everything from colour and font, to the background and shadow appearance.