Netflix offers a treasure trove of entertainment, but accessing it in Zimbabwe comes with unique challenges. While pirated content is readily available – often at temptingly low prices like US$1 for 10 episodes – Netflix provides unmatched quality, variety, and the latest shows. This guide will walk you through setting up Netflix in Zimbabwe, from choosing the right internet package to paying with Ecocash.

To enjoy Netflix seamlessly, you need a stable internet connection. While internet services are still relatively expensive, options like TelOne’s US$60 package with 500GB at 5 Mbps suffice for 720p streaming. Liquid Home shines with a 20Mbps package suitable for 1080p streaming, though it might struggle with HDR. The Infinity US$99 package is more appropriate for a smooth experience.

Internet Packages Suitable for Netflix

Here’s a comparison of internet packages from TelOne and Liquid Home that can handle Netflix streaming:

Package Name	Provider	USD Price	Data Allocation	Maximum Speed	Netflix Resolution Supported
Infinity US$60	Liquid Home	$60	500GB	5 Mbps	720p
Infinity US$90	Liquid Home	$90	Unlimited (FUP)	5 Mbps	1080p
Infinity US$140	Liquid Home	$140	Unlimited (FUP)	20 Mbps	1080p, HDR
Infinity US$99	Liquid Home	$99	Unlimited (FUP)	20 Mbps	1080p
Home Plus	TelOne	$50	300GB	5 Mbps	720p
Infinity Basic	TelOne	$60	500GB	5 Mbps	1080p
Infinity Plus	TelOne	$90	Unlimited (FUP)	5 Mbps	1080p
Infinity Ultra	TelOne	$140	Unlimited (FUP)	20 Mbps	1080p, HDR
Infinity Max	TelOne	$200	Unlimited (FUP)	50 Mbps	4K, HDR

Cheapest packages to stream from TelOne and Liquid Home

Streaming Netflix requires a reliable internet connection. Here are the current cheapest suitable options from major providers:

Provider	Package Name	Price (USD)	Data	Speed	Netflix Resolution
TelOne	Premium	60	500GB	5 Mbps	720p
Liquid Home	Infinity	99	Unlimited	75 Mbps	1080p, some HDR
Liquid Home	Infinity LTE	89	Unlimited	20 Mbps	1080p, some HDR

TelOne’s package is sufficient for basic streaming, while Liquid Home’s offering allows for higher quality and potentially some HDR content.

Paying for Netflix with Ecocash VCN

Ecocash’s Virtual Card Number (VCN) service allows you to create a temporary card for online transactions. Here’s how to use it for Netflix:

Steps to Generate an Ecocash VCN

If you don’t already have an Ecocash Virtual Card Number (VCN), follow these steps to generate one:

Dial *151# on your mobile phone.
Select “Wallet Services”.
Choose “Ecocash Debit Card”.
Select “Ecocash MasterCard Virtual”.
Confirm the request to generate a VCN.
You will receive a VCN via SMS.

Cost of Generating a VCN

The cost of generating an Ecocash VCN is US$0.50. You can name it (e.g., “net1” for Netflix 1) to manage and block the card if you wish to stop payments. Once you have generated the VCN you can just enter the card number, expiry date and CVV in the provided fields during the Netflix sign-up process. To subscribe to Netflix:

Visit netflix.com and select your plan
When prompted for payment, enter your VCN details
Complete the sign-up process

Netflix Subscription Costs with Ecocash VCN

Here’s a breakdown of the Netflix subscription costs, including Ecocash transaction fees:

Netflix Plan	Monthly Cost	Ecocash Transaction Fee	Total Cost	Benefits	Devices Supported
Mobile	$2.99	$0.30	$3.29	Fair video and sound quality	Mobile phone, tablet
Basic	$3.99	$0.30	$4.29	Good video and sound quality	TV, computer, mobile phone, tablet
Standard	$7.99	$0.30	$8.29	Great video and sound quality, HD resolution	TV, computer, mobile phone, tablet
Premium	$9.99	$0.30	$10.29	Best video and sound quality, 4K resolution	TV, computer, mobile phone, tablet

Total Cost of Netflix with Internet Packages

Combining the cost of Netflix Standard package with different internet packages:

Package Name	Internet Cost	Netflix Cost	Total Monthly Cost
Infinity US$90	$90	$8.29	$98.29
Infinity US$140	$140	$8.29	$148.29
Infinity US$99	$99	$8.29	$107.29
Home Plus	$50	$8.29	$58.29
Infinity	$60	$8.29	$68.29
Infinity	$90	$8.29	$98.29

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can enjoy Netflix’s vast library of content while navigating the unique challenges of streaming in Zimbabwe. Remember, while pirated content might seem tempting, Netflix offers superior quality, and convenience, and supports the creators of the shows you love.