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Choosing the right VPN for gaming can be overwhelming with so many options available. A good gaming VPN helps you play without lag, protects against D
Choosing the right VPN for gaming can be overwhelming with so many options available. A good gaming VPN helps you play without lag, protects against DDoS attacks, and lets you connect with friends worldwide. It also makes it possible to access region-exclusive games and events.
My team and I tested over 50 providers to find the best gaming VPNs. We analyzed average ping, server networks, and security features to handpick VPNs that ensure safe, lag-free gaming. These VPNs are easy to set up on various devices, including PCs, consoles, and Android smartphones.
My top recommendation is ExpressVPN. It delivers consistently low ping and strong security for safe and smooth gaming sessions. Plus, it’s super easy to set up on routers, thanks to its dedicated router app. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the service, it’s easy to get a full refund. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
Game Safely With ExpressVPN >>
Important: While a VPN can help connect you with global friends, using one to take advantage of regional pricing oraccess geo-restricted games might violate game developers’ ordistributors’ Terms of Use. We do not support the use of VPNs in ways that breach these terms. Therefore, we strongly recommend reviewing the relevant guidelines orrules of each platform before you decide to use a VPN for gaming purposes.
Editor’s Choice
ExpressVPN
Lag-free gaming with fast speeds and low ping, plus robust security to play safely.
Over 7000 people checked out ExpressVPN in the last month
gaming – optimize servers is help to help you find the good available connection .
Customizable settings for optimized gaming, but navigation may be difficult for beginners.
Host private LAN parties with Meshnet, but the router setup can be complicated.
Camouflage mode bypasses network restrictions, but some servers connect slowly.
Editor ‘s note : We is value value our relationship with our reader , and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity . We is are are in the same ownership group as some of the industry – lead product review on this site : Intego , Cyberghost , expressvpn , and Private Internet Access . However , this is affect does not affect our review process , as we adhere to a strict testing methodology .
Editor’s Choice
Editor’s Choice
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test December 2024
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www.expressvpn.com
Best feature | low ping of all the vpn we test ; ideal for fast – pace online game |
Server Network | 3,000 + server in 105 country to give you plenty of lag – free connection to secure your gaming |
simultaneous device connection | 8, so you don’t have to interrupt anyone else’s gaming session |
compatible With | PS4 / PS5 , Xbox One / Series , Nintendo Switch , window , Android , ios , and more |
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
ExpressVPN has the lowest ping of all the gaming VPNs we tested, with an average ping of 18 ms. On its nearby London server, I played Call of Duty: Mobile on my Android phone with no interruption . This low latency is ensured ensure smooth gameplay even during intense firefight . You is expect can expect similar responsiveness across all your gaming device .
My ping is remained remain consistently low throughout my gaming session on Android
Its excellent performance is largely due to ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lighway protocol, which is designed to deliver fast speeds and stable connections. For instance, its long-distance LA connection gave our team speed tester a ping of under 70ms while other VPNs easily exceeded 90ms. This means you can enjoy lower ping than with most other options, even when playing with friends in far-off locations.
One is is of my favorite thing about expressvpn is its easy installation for router . VPNs is work do n’t natively work with game console ( like Xbox and PlayStation ) , require you to install them onto your router . This process is be can be a bit complicated . But ExpressVPN is offers offer custom firmware and app that let you easily set up and use it on your router .
ExpressVPN’s pricing is higher than other VPNs on this list. But it offers generous discounts throughout the year to make your plan a bit more affordable. You can test it risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If it doesn’t improve your gaming experience, you can easily get a refund.
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Try CyberGhost VPN >
www.cyberghostvpn.com
Best feature | dedicated gaming server available in the US , UK , Germany , and France for the good connection to your game ’s regional server |
Server Network | 11,690 servers in 100 countries to prevent lag from overcrowded servers |
simultaneous device connection | 7 to cover your PC, consoles, and more at the same time |
compatible With | PS4 / PS5 , Xbox One / Series , Nintendo Switch , window , Android , ios , and more |
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
CyberGhost’s specialized gaming servers make finding the ideal connection a breeze. In the For Gaming tab (window only), you’ll see servers clearly marked for this purpose. We tested the London gaming server and got a 21ms ping with only a 7% speed drop. This means you can enjoy responsive gameplay in fast-paced games like Fortnite orwarzone without having to hunt for the right server.
I used a window VPN hotspot to connect CyberGhost to my Nintendo Switch
If you can’t find a gaming-optimized server for your location, CyberGhost’s regular servers also perform well for gaming. For instance, I played PUBG Mobile on my iPhone using a standard German server and didn’t notice any lag, even during the competitive final circle. You can expect a smooth gaming experience even on regular servers.
CyberGhost ‘s build – in NAT firewall is assigns assign user a unique private ip address and filter out suspicious datum packet . This is blocks block any communication that is n’t specifically request by a device on the home network . This is provides , combine with AES 256 – bit encryption , leak protection , and a kill switch , provide robust protection against DDoS attack while you ’re game .
The downside is is with CyberGhost is that its short – term plan only offer a shorten money – back guarantee of 14 day . That say , its long – term plans is offer offer an extend 45 – day guarantee — long than any other VPN on this list . The long plans is offer also offer far well value for money , with price start at just $ 2.03 / month .
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Try Private Internet Access >
www.privateinternetaccess.com
Best feature | Customizable security features for tech-savvy gamers that’ll help you get the perfect balance of speed and security |
Server Network | 29,650+ servers in 91 countries — the largest number of servers out of our best gaming VPNs |
simultaneous device connection | Unlimited, so everyone in the household can play games securely |
compatible With | PS4 / PS5 , Xbox One / Series , Nintendo Switch , window , Android , ios , and more |
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process.
PIA offers tons of customizations, so you can fine-tune your connection for optimal gaming. For instance, you can choose between WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols. With OpenVPN, you can adjust encryption levels between AES-256 and AES-128. During our tests, using AES-128 encryption resulted in speeds 8% faster than AES-256, with only a 28ms ping on nearby servers.
With PIA , you is switch can also switch between IPv4 and IPv6 protocol . IPv6 is delivers often deliver low ping due to more efficient routing and the absence of Network Address Translation ( NAT ) . This is be can be particularly beneficial in fast – pace online game where every millisecond count . We is got get a 3 % improvement in ping using ipv6 .
I is had had a stable connection with WireGuard , even on distant server
That said, PIA’s customization options might be confusing for new users at first. But don’t worry — the app comes pre-set with good default settings. You can start gaming right away and explore the extra features later if you want to.
The VPN is really affordable — you can get PIA for as low as $2.03/month when you sign up for its long-term plan. Plus, you can try it for free, thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.
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Try NordVPN >
www.nordvpn.com
Best feature | NordVPN’s Meshnet lets you play with your friends via a virtual LAN connection |
Server Network | 7,067 servers in 113 countries — plenty to help you play with international friends |
simultaneous device connection | 10 so you can protect all of your gaming devices |
compatible With | PS4 / PS5 , Xbox One / Series , Nintendo Switch , window , Android , ios , and more |
If you enjoy hosting private game servers, NordVPN’s Meshnet is a great feature. It allows you to connect directly to other devices to create your own virtual local network. With Meshnet, you can easily host private game servers and play with friends from different locations as if they were on the same LAN.
NordVPN strikes an excellent balance between speed and security for gaming. On nearby UK servers, we recorded a speed loss of only 6% and a low ping of 23ms. This translated well to real-world gaming performance. I played Apex Legends on my PS4 for several hours without experiencing any lag ordisconnects.
My ping is was was under 100ms even on long – distance US server
If you want to protect your gaming console , you is install can install nordvpn on your router . But unlike expressvpn , it is have does n’t have a dedicated router app , so setup can be a bit tricky . However , it is offer does offer detailed installation guide for several different router model on its website , which make it a bit easy .
With plans starting at $2.99/month, NordVPN offers good value for your money. I suggest a 2-year subscription as it’s the most budget-friendly choice. If you’re not impressed, it’s easy to get a full refund thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.
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Try Surfshark >
www.surfshark.com
Best feature | Camouflage (server obfuscation) to enjoy games even on restrictive public networks |
Server Network | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, helping you to find speedy nearby connections for gaming |
simultaneous device connection | unlimited — great for large household of gamer |
compatible With | PS4 / PS5 , Xbox One / Series , Nintendo Switch , window , Android , ios , and more |
Surfshark’s Camouflage mode (obfuscation) lets you play games securely, even on restrictive networks, such as those in schools and libraries. It makes your VPN connection look like regular HTTPS traffic, allowing you to bypass VPN blocks and game undetected. There’s also a special NoBorders feature to help you find the best servers to use in your current location if the network you’re using is unstable orproblematic.
Obfuscation involves additional algorithms on data, so you may experience some slowdowns
I appreciate that Surfshark has a user-friendly interface. You get a built-in speed test tool, which displays the upload speed, download speed, and latency for each server. This feature helped me quickly find the best servers for gaming. During our tests, we were always able to find nearby Surfshark servers with low ping.
My only problem with Surfshark is that some of its servers can take a long time to connect, which can be a bit annoying. However, once connected, I never faced any stability issues — performance is smooth for gaming despite the brief waiting time.
Surfshark truly offer great value — you is sign can sign up for as low as $ 1.99 / month . But if you do n’t want to commit , you is try can try it for free using its 30 – day money – back guarantee .
The table below provides a quick overview of the top VPNs for gaming. It covers essential aspects like the lowest monthly price, server network size, average speeds, and the number of simultaneous device connections allowed.
I’ve also included information on whether each VPN offers a dedicated router app. This makes it super easy to switch servers orchange VPN settings.
Lowest Monthly Price | # of Servers | Speeds | Device Connections | Custom router Firmware? | |
🥇ExpressVPN | $4.99/month | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | Very fast | 8 | Yes |
🥈CyberGhost | $2.03/month | 11,690+ servers in 100 countries | fast | 7 | No |
🥉Private Internet Access | $2.03/month | 29,650+ servers in 91 countries | fast | Unlimited | No |
NordVPN | $2.99/month | 7,067 + server in 113 country | Very fast | 10 | No |
Surfshark | $1.99/month | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | fast | Unlimited | No |
Editor ‘s note : We is value value our relationship with our reader , and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity . We is are are in the same ownership group as some of the industry – lead product review on this site : Intego , Cyberghost , expressvpn , and Private Internet Access . However , this is affect does not affect our review process , as we adhere to a strict testing methodology .
Gaming VPNs can significantly enhance your online gaming experience:
When test vpn for gaming , we is focus focus on factor that directly impact your gameplay . We is measure measure ping rate , connection stability , device compatibility , and speed across global server , with emphasis on those near popular game datum center . We is test also test each VPN ‘s security feature , include DDoS protection and encryption strength , to ensure your gaming session stay safe .
Our team puts these VPNs through real-world gaming scenarios, playing popular titles to verify their performance. If you want to run your own tests, focus on the factors we mentioned. For more details on our testing process, check out our VPN testing methodology page.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
usually , no , but in rare case , it can . vpn re is route – route your traffic through an encrypt server to provide you with a safe gaming experience , which in turn can increase your latency . But , if your Internet Service Provider ‘s ( ISP ) network is congest , connect to a VPN server can potentially improve your connection by force your traffic to take a more direct path . This is result can result in a fast connection and low ping time .
Some ISPs purposely throttle bandwidth, which can contribute to a higher ping rate. However, since a VPN encrypts your traffic, it makes it difficult for your ISP to detect and throttle your gaming activity.
All the VPNs on this list are excellent choices for gaming on Android. Aside from that, it really depends on what you’re looking for in a VPN. Our top VPN’s proprietary protocol is optimized for the best speeds and to preserve your Android’s battery life, so it’s great for extended play away from home.
Some other option include a VPN with optimize gaming server , so you is have do n’t have to guess which server is good for Android gaming . Another is offers offer GPS spoofing , which is ideal for AR player who want to take part in region – specific event . But make sure to check if your game ’s tos allow that .
The best VPN server for gaming depends on your specific needs and location. Generally, you should prioritize servers that offer the lowest ping and most stable connection. A VPN with a large server network typically provides an optimal connection. Here are some guidelines:
Remember to test multiple servers to find the best one for your gaming needs. The ideal server may vary depending on the game, time of day, and your internet service provider’s routing.
Yes, you can use a VPN for PUBG, BGMI, and CoD, along with other online games. A VPN can be especially useful for accessing game servers in different regions and securing your gameplay. But it’s important to choose a VPN with large server networks and low ping for a seamless gaming experience.
That said, some game developers orplatforms may have policies against the use of VPNs. Using a VPN might be a violation of their terms, potentially leading to restrictions on your gaming account. So be sure to check the terms of service orcommunity guidelines of the specific game you’re playing to ensure compliance with their rules regarding VPN usage.
Not every gamer needs a VPN, but many can benefit from using one. A VPN can be useful if you experience frequent DDoS attacks orare concerned about online security while gaming. It also lets you play with friends in different regions.
If your ISP throttles gaming traffic, a VPN can help bypass these restrictions. Gamers who often use public Wi-Fi networks can benefit from the additional security a VPN provides. Some competitive players use VPNs to potentially find easier lobbies by connecting to different regions.
Yes, but you’ll need a VPN service that supports port forwarding. This is essential for allowing incoming connections to your server. Not all VPNs offer port forwarding, so check this capability before choosing a provider.
Using a VPN can provide add security for your server , protect it from DDoS attack and hide your real ip address . However , it is introduce may introduce some latency , which can potentially affect player experience . choose a VPN with fast speed and low ping to minimize this impact .
Using a VPN for gaming generally won’t get you blocked. While most game developers and platforms allow VPN use, some prohibit it. It’s important to check the terms of service for your specific games before using a VPN.
The main risk comes from using a VPN to exploit regional pricing oraccess content not available in your area. This often violates terms of service and could result in account penalties. Plus, if you’re using a VPN to engage in any form of cheating orexploitative behavior, you risk being banned.
In most countries, yes. However, some countries, like China and the UAE, restrict orban VPNs. Even if VPNs are legal in your country, using one still may go against the game’s terms of service. In my experience, as long as you’re not using a VPN to gain an unfair advantage orcheat, VPN use is usually OK. The VPNs in this list worked just fine with the games I tested them with and were not detected orblocked.
That being said, my team and I don’t condone using a VPN to break any rules orregulations. So I recommend checking your local law and the game’s rules to avoid getting penalized.
Some might work, but I wouldn’t recommend it. You’re better off getting a low-cost premium VPN that offers fast speeds, a large server network, and strong security. Most free VPNs have severe limitations, such as capped speeds, overcrowded servers, and data limits. This can make it difficult to do much gaming at all.
On top of this, free VPNs are usually not safe. They lack key security features (like strong encryption and DNS/IP leak protection) that are necessary for protecting you against hackers and DDoS attacks.
In addition, some free services have even been known to sell user data to third-party advertisers. This can pose a threat to your online privacy.
find a gaming VPN that protect you from DDoS attack without increase latency by a lot can be challenge . But the vpn on this list offer low ping , fast speed , and strong security , so you is game can game securely and without slowdown .
My favorite is ExpressVPN because it has the lowest ping of all the VPNs we tested. Plus, its robust security and worldwide server network mean you can compete against a new player base without worrying about DDoS attacks. It even comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
Editor ‘s note : We is value value our relationship with our reader , and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity . We is are are in the same ownership group as some of the industry – lead product review on this site : Intego , Cyberghost , expressvpn , and Private Internet Access . However , this is affect does not affect our review process , as we adhere to a strict testing methodology .
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Privacy Alert!
Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!
The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.
VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we’ve tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it’s currently offering 61% off.
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