Online gaming is a thrilling experience, but technical issues like high ping or geographic restrictions can dampen your fun. Fortunately, using a VPN can resolve these problems, providing a more secure and unrestricted gaming experience for titles like Call of Duty and Forza Horizon.
As an avid gamer, I've rigorously tested numerous VPN services to find the best options for gaming. After extensive evaluation, I've identified seven top VPNs, with NordVPN emerging as the premier choice. NordVPN excels with its global server network, which helps bypass geographic restrictions, and its fast speeds ensure low latency for games like Fortnite, Helldivers 2, and Minecraft. Other notable options include CyberGhost and Surfshark, both of which offer compelling features for gamers.
TL;DR: These Are the Best VPNs for Gaming
### NordVPN
13See it at NordVPN
### CyberGhost
3See it at CyberGhost
### Surfshark
4See it at Surfshark
### IPVanish
4See it at IPVanish
### Proton VPN
7See it at Proton VPN
### ExpressVPN
6See it at ExpressVPN
### Mullvad
4See it at Mullvad
Regardless of the VPN you choose for gaming, expect your internet traffic and IP address to be encrypted. This not only protects you from DDoS attacks but also allows you to spoof your location, accessing your favorite games and servers. The best VPNs can even enhance your performance by countering ISP throttling or by connecting you to a server closer to the game's server.
NordVPN
Best VPN for Gaming
### NordVPN
13See it at NordVPN
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $3.09/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: 10
- Servers: 7,000+
- Countries: 118
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
PROS
- Impressive network of servers
- Meshnet feature for LAN gaming
CONS
- Apps are a little cluttered
NordVPN stands out as the top choice for gaming due to its proprietary NordLynx protocol, which prioritizes speed, allowing for low-latency gaming in titles like League of Legends. Its Meshnet feature enables secure LAN gaming with friends, and with over 7,000 servers across 111 countries, bypassing geographic restrictions is effortless. This makes NordVPN a favorite for streaming as well.
NordVPN's robust security features, including 256-bit AES encryption, protect your IP address and shield you from DDoS attacks. It supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, and installing it on a compatible router can secure all your devices, including your PlayStation or Xbox console.
CyberGhost
Best Free Trial VPN for Gaming
### CyberGhost
3See it at CyberGhost
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $2.03/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: 7
- Servers: Undisclosed
- Countries: 100
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV
PROS
- Vast server network
- Gaming-optimized servers
CONS
- Still lacking an Apple TV app
CyberGhost's extensive server network spans 100 countries, allowing you to connect to servers closer to your location for reduced latency. Its gaming-optimized servers in cities like London and New York (Windows) make it an excellent choice for gamers. CyberGhost also offers a Smart DNS service for connecting your console to servers in the U.S.
The ability to sort servers by distance, load, and ping helps you find the fastest available server, making games like CS:GO lag-free. High-end encryption ensures your safety on public Wi-Fi, preventing interference during high-stakes matches. CyberGhost offers a 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS, making it the best free trial VPN available.
Surfshark
Best Gaming VPN With Extra Features
### Surfshark
4See it at Surfshark
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $1.99/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
- Servers: 3,000+
- Countries: 100
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
Surfshark delivers consistent performance for fast-paced games like Call of Duty: Warzone. Its split tunneling feature allows you to bypass IP blocks while securing the rest of your traffic. With 3,000 servers across 100 countries and upgraded 10Gbps servers, you're assured of fast speeds.
Surfshark's Smart DNS feature lets you change your location on your Smart TV, Xbox, or PlayStation without encrypting your traffic. Unlike many VPNs, Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, ensuring secure gaming across all your devices. Its suite of security features, including an ad blocker, Double VPN servers, and antivirus, makes it more than just a VPN.
IPVanish
Best Gaming VPN for Unlimited Devices
### IPVanish
4See it at IPVanish
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $2.19/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
- Servers: 2,400+
- Countries: 100
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
PROS
- See each server's ping and load
- Numerous new features
CONS
- Operates out of the U.S. (a Five Eyes member)
IPVanish has significantly improved its service, offering some of the fastest speeds for low-ping gaming in titles like Rocket League. Its user-friendly interface allows easy access to the fastest available server and displays each server's ping and load. For U.S. gamers, IPVanish's 1,400+ North American servers across 24 cities are a major advantage.
Recent enhancements include a secure browser and cloud storage, along with Double Hop servers for added encryption. My tests confirmed no DNS or IP leaks, and with unlimited device connections, IPVanish is ideal for gamers with multiple devices.
Disclosure: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, IGN's parent company.
Proton VPN
Best Gaming VPN With a Free Tier
### Proton VPN
7See it at Proton VPN
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $4.49/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: 10
- Servers: 9,000+
- Countries: 117
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, Apple TV
PROS
- Excellent server speeds
- True no-logs policy
CONS
- Live chat isn't 24/7
Proton VPN's expansive network of over 9,000 servers in 117 countries and its fast speeds make it ideal for gaming. Its VPN Accelerator feature boosts speeds by overcoming CPU limitations. I experienced no noticeable latency while playing Fortnite.
Proton VPN's true no-logs policy, independently audited, ensures anonymous gaming, browsing, and streaming. Its 30-day money-back guarantee and a free tier with unlimited data (though not suitable for gaming) offer a risk-free trial.
ExpressVPN
Best VPN for Streaming Games
### ExpressVPN
6See it at ExpressVPN
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Starting from $4.99/mo.
- Simultaneous connections: 8
- Servers: Undisclosed
- Countries: 105
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV
PROS
- Consistent unblocker
- Custom firmware for routers
CONS
- A more expensive option
ExpressVPN's proprietary Lightway protocol ensures minimal lag, making it ideal for fast-paced tactical shooters like Valorant. Its custom router firmware simplifies setup for PlayStation 5, Xbox X|S, or Nintendo Switch.
With over 3,000 servers across 105 countries, ExpressVPN helps access geo-restricted games. Its 256-bit AES encryption ensures secure gaming, and its user-friendly apps, coupled with the best 24/7 support, make it a top choice.
Mullvad
Best Gaming VPN for Anonymity
### Mullvad
4See it at Mullvad
Product Specifications
- Pricing: Flat rate of €5/mo. (~$5.65)
- Simultaneous connections: 5
- Servers: 700+
- Countries: 44
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux
PROS
- WireGuard protocol for fast speeds
- Anonymous signup
CONS
- Smaller server network
Mullvad's smaller server network still suffices for most gamers, especially with the fast WireGuard protocol. Its split tunneling feature allows you to choose which apps bypass the VPN, useful for reducing ping.
Mullvad's strict no-logs policy and 256-bit AES encryption ensure high privacy. Its anonymous signup and cash payment options make it a truly anonymous choice. Mullvad is also one of the most affordable VPNs, making it our best cheap VPN.
What to Look for in a VPN for Gaming
Choosing the right VPN for gaming involves considering several factors:
- Server speed: Fast, consistent connections are crucial, especially for competitive games. VPNs with the WireGuard protocol, unlimited bandwidth, and numerous servers offer the best latency.
- Server locations: Connecting to servers near your physical location or the game server can improve speeds. A global server network is essential.
- Security and privacy: High encryption levels and leak protection are vital to prevent DDoS attacks and keep your IP address hidden.
- Compatibility: The best gaming VPNs support all major operating systems and may offer router compatibility or Smart DNS for consoles like PlayStation and Xbox.
How to Use a VPN for Gaming
Using a VPN for gaming is straightforward:
- Choose your preferred gaming VPN and sign up.
- Download the VPN app compatible with your gaming device.
- Follow the installation instructions.
- Log in to the VPN app and connect to a server, preferably one near your location.
- Enjoy secure gaming with unlimited bandwidth, experimenting with different servers to find the best performance.
Best VPNs for Gaming FAQs
Why should I use a VPN for gaming?
Using a VPN for gaming offers several benefits: it encrypts your data and hides your IP address, preventing ISP throttling and DDoS attacks. It also allows you to spoof your location and access geo-restricted games and content.
Can a VPN improve gaming speed and reduce ping times?
While VPNs typically slow connections due to encryption, they can improve speeds if your ISP is throttling your connection. In some cases, connecting to a VPN server closer to the game server can reduce ping times.
Can I use a free VPN for gaming?
Most free VPNs are too slow for gaming due to limited servers and heavy loads. They often have speed and data limits, leading to lag and high ping times. Additionally, free VPNs may lack sufficient encryption, risking your IP address exposure.
