Netflix has become one of the most popular sources of entertainment, with people flocking to their favorite series to unwind.
However, many users are now claiming that Netflix is lagging on Chrome, and we are here to investigate why this is occurring and whether there is a solution to resolve the issue.
While Netflix can be seen on nearly every device and browser, there are times when the video buffers and lags. This is especially true if Chrome is your default browser.
Continue reading to learn everything there is to know about Netflix on Chrome and how to improve your experience at the end of the article.
Why is Netflix lagging on Chrome?
We can all agree that Chrome is one of the greatest and most popular browsers on the market, with millions of users. Even the finest programs have glitches now and again, and it appears that Chrome is having difficulty with Netflix streaming.
It is tempting to believe that the problem is limited to the browser and that the only way to solve it is to use a different browser; however, this is not always the case.
Several scenarios might cause Netflix lags on Chrome, and we will go over them all.
1. Faulty Internet connection
A good and fast internet connection is one of the first and most important requirements for smooth Netflix streaming. If this is not the case, the issue is with your internet service provider, not your browser.
There are a few internet-related factors that might affect the quality of the connection, such as:
- Your internet service provider – Because your internet service provider offers a variety of payment plans and alternatives, it is a good idea to review your plan on a regular basis to determine whether you require more or less speed and data.
- Chosen connection – Wireless connections are typically slower than Ethernet connections, which might cause issues with streaming services such as Netflix.
- Router and modem issues – Your router and modem may be out of date or in the wrong location. This might jeopardize the connection and cause latency.
2. Device currently in use
The devices you’re attempting to use to stream Netflix videos might cause a variety of issues, including latency.
There are several components involved in establishing a solid internet connection or disrupting it, such as network drivers, background apps, VPNs, and even malicious malware on the device.
3. Default browser
If Netflix is choppy on Chrome, the issue could be with that particular browser. Usually, it is not updated, or the cash memory is filled.
The only way to know if Chrome is indeed the problem is to try and download a different browser and see if Netflix works on the new one. If Chrome results to be at fault, you don’t need to stop using it. Continue reading below to find the best solution for you.
How to stop Netflix from lagging on Chrome?
Now that we know why Netflix is stuttering on Chrome, we can provide some ideas to improve matters. This should significantly improve the speed of your internet connection and allow you to return to your favorite program in no time.
1. Examine your internet connection
As previously stated, the internet connection is typically to blame for the slowness that shows on Netflix. To ensure that everything is in working condition, inspect the equipment, connections, and cables. Check for any broken parts and, if required, replace them.
Also, make sure your internet package is enough and that you have plenty of downloads and upload speed to handle Netflix streaming.
Finally, if you’re using Wi-Fi to connect your devices, position your router optimally or switch to a 5GHz network because it’s quicker.
2. Reboot the router
If your internet connection is stable, you could try rebooting the router to see if that helps.
While we recognize that this is not the greatest option if the lagging occurs all the time, it may be a very simple process to do and ensure that it is not creating any internet connection issues.
Restarting the router is typically the first thing you should do if you are experiencing connection issues since these devices are prone to become overworked and unstable.
To properly restart it, switch off the power source and wait for the gadget to completely shut down before attempting to reconnect.
3. Change to an Ethernet connection
While we are all accustomed to quick and dependable Wi-Fi connections, it is possible that this is one of the major reasons for Netflix to be slow on Chrome. So, before we start with our suggestions, the best thing you can do is convert to an Ethernet connection cable.
This connection will link your device directly to the router, increasing speed and allowing you to watch your favorite Netflix episodes without latency. If the internet connection is not the issue, as we said in the first proposal, the Ethernet cable can solve the problem for you.
4. Disable all background apps
No matter how much bandwidth you have or how fast your internet is, it may become overloaded and sluggish at any time. This is due to the fact that numerous gadgets in your house or workplace, as well as several programs on your device, are using the bandwidth.
There isn’t much left for Netflix after the connection is spread thin among all of the devices and applications. Also, keep in mind that streaming videos consume most of the data on your network.
As a result, we propose that you evaluate your network, unplug any devices that aren’t in use, and check to see what programs are running in the background.
If something is upgrading or taking a lot of bandwidth while you’re attempting to watch Netflix, pause it and reschedule the update.
5. Disable VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) is an excellent tool for increasing online security and concealing your IP address. Furthermore, a VPN allows you to access websites that would otherwise be unavailable in your location.
However, the VPN might cause significant delays in the connection and as a result Netflix is not working on Google Chrome.
This occurs when the VPN connects to a remote server situated outside of your country in order to conceal your digital footprint. All of these wonderful security measures cost time and might cause the rest of the network to slow down.
Disable the VPN and watch something on Netflix. If it uploads without a hitch, you know the slowness was caused by the VPN.
6. Disable hardware acceleration
Hardware acceleration is a fantastic technique that improves the performance of the gadget you’re using while also speeding up the internet. Many users, however, complain that if this option is enabled, Netflix is not playing on Chrome.
You can deactivate hardware acceleration to see if this is true for your device. You can accomplish this by following the procedures outlined below:
- Open Chrome and navigate to the Settings tab;
- Go to Appearance;
- Scroll down and choose Advance.
- Locate the hardware acceleration and disable it.
If Netflix or other streaming sites start working again after this, you have permanently addressed the problem. If not, there are other options to consider.
7. Clear your cache and cookies
Chrome operates on several levels at the same time, and it constantly has more data flowing in and out than you may be aware of. Chrome’s memory stores all of your history and data.
This is crucial to know since it might result in a sluggish and poor internet connection for basic surfing, as well as additional issues with streaming services like Netflix.
Clearing the cache and cookies from the browser should speed things up and give you a much better connection. However, keep in mind that in order for this operation to have full impact, the browser must be entirely restarted.
8. Update/Reinstall Chrome
Many people are unaware that even Chrome needs updates from time to time, and that they are generally done automatically.
However, if you are having connection issues and delays, you may wish to manually check for new updates. These files are easily accessible online and may be installed in a matter of minutes.
It’s worth noting that some customers had greater experience with a full Chrome installation. Because many of us are accustomed to this browser and do not wish to change it, the next best option is to delete it and then reinstall it to have a fresh start and a better connection.
9. Choose a lower resolution
Netflix is by far one of the greatest streaming services, and as such, it has incredible quality options that go all the way up to 4K. However, your browser may be unable to elaborate that resolution, causing the video you’re trying to watch to lag and chop.
This may be the ideal moment to experiment with downscaling the resolution to 720p, which most browsers, including Chrome, will support. Your eye won’t see much of a difference, but the video should upload faster and without buffering.
10. Change the bitrate
Aside from video resolution, another factor to consider is bitrate. Some browsers do not support high bitrates based on similar reasoning. You can play around with other choices on the Netflix site, but most people have the greatest experience with 24fps.
