There ain't no party, like a Netflix party, because at a Netflix party pants are optional. Especially when you’re partying with your friends remotely from your own separate couches. Netflix Party is a Google Chrome extension that allows you to do just that. You can binge your favourite shows with your friends, without ever having to leave your house, let alone re-pant yourself.
Whether you’re staying in to save money, have a general disdain for leaving your house, or you’re on a government mandated holiday from the outside world, Netflix Party is a fun way to stay connected with your friends without even opening your front door.
What is Netflix Party
Netflix Party is a Google Chrome browser extension, which allows multiple users to watch a Netflix stream, with synchronised video playback. The platform lets you and your friends control the same video stream from anywhere, and use the conveniently located chatroom throughout.
You have the option to allow Party guest to, play, pause, rewind, and fast forward the show for the entire group, or the Party Organiser can opt to keep control, and quell power struggles.
Which, for those of you who remember, is the modern day power equivalent of blocking the remote sensor on the TV.
Important note to remember
Netflix Party is solely available as a Google Chrome extension, so access is only possible through a Chrome browser on a laptop or desktop. Although, you can always mirror your screen to your TV or connect via HDMI if you prefer a big screen experience.
Download Chrome HereHow to use Netflix Party
The Beastie Boys were right, you gotta fight for your right to party, and Netflix Party is no different. Before you can kick it, binge-watching style, your whole party will need to have their own Netflix accounts, and have the Netflix Party extension downloaded onto a laptop or desktop.
To download Netflix Party, go to the official site and simply click download. Once you have downloaded the extension, a grey NP logo will appear in the top right hand side of your browser. If you can see this, then you’re ready to go.
The party organiser can then access Netflix via Chrome, and pick a stream to watch. Once the stream has started, click on the NP logo on your browser bar to get the party started - it should automatically turn red, so it will be easy to spot.
As the organiser, decide whether you want sole control of the stream, or if you want to allow other party goers to have access to playback options. If you're on a power trip, then make sure the only I have control box is checked, then, click start the party.
Send the supplied link to everyone who you want to invite to your party. When your guests receive the link, they’ll simply need to access it via Chrome and click on the NP icon on their browser to join.
How much data does Netflix Party use?
Netflix Party uses the same data per hour as running standard Netflix through your Chrome browser, plus a negligible amount extra for the chatroom window. The quality of your stream will determine how much data, and bandwidth a Netflix Party will use.
Netflix data usage
| Stream Quality | Data Per Hour | Data Per Month | Suggested Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 300MB | 14.1GB | 100GB Plans |
| Standard Definition | 1GB | 47GB | 200GB Plans |
| High Definition | 3GB | 141GB | 500GB Plans |
| Ultra HD (4K) | 7GB | 329GB | Unlimited Plans |
Chrome extensions are downloaded to the browser, so you'll only be using data to install it once. However an extension may automatically install a software update, which may use a small amount of additional data.
Best shows to watch in a Netflix Party
If you’re sick of browsing through titles to find the perfect draw card for your party, then take a look at our editor’s top picks.
Best shows on Netflix Best movies on Netflix
Anula Wiwatowska
Offsite Editorial Lead | Instagram
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