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5 Best Gaming VPNs in 2024: Android, PC, Consoles & More

5 Best Gaming VPNs in 2024: Android, PC, Consoles & More

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

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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 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.

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Gaming in 2024

  • 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

  • CyberGhost

    gaming – optimize servers is help to help you find the good available connection .

  • Private Internet Access ( PIA )

    Customizable settings for optimized gaming, but navigation may be difficult for beginners.

  • NordVPN

    Host private LAN parties with Meshnet, but the router setup can be complicated.

  • Surfshark

    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 .

Best VPNs for Gaming — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

Editor’s Choice
Editor’s Choice

Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
test December 2024

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Try ExpressVPN >

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 .

5 Best Gaming VPNs in 2024: Android, PC, Consoles & MoreMy 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.

Useful Features

  • Port forwarding. Installing ExpressVPN on a router gives you port forwarding support and allows you to host games. All you have to do is set up a particular port to accept the incoming traffic.
  • APK support. ExpressVPN offers an APK on its website for users who need direct installation. This can be useful if you don’t have access to the Google Play Store orsimply don’t want to use it.
  • Robust IP/DNS leak protection. Across all my tests, ExpressVPN never leaked my IP address once — gamers couldn’t trace my real location and use it to harass me orsend out DDoS campaigns. It protected my connection further with AES 256-bit military-grade protection and an automatic kill switch.
  • Aircove router. If you plan to use the VPN for gaming on your consoles, you can get ExpressVPN’s Aircove router. This comes with the VPN pre-installed, so you can use it right out of the box without having to set up anything and risk bricking your existing router.
  • Split tunneling. You can optimize your VPN connection for gaming by sending all other traffic through your regular, unencrypted internet connection. This minimizes the load you put on your chosen server and can improve your speeds and ping, particularly if your base speeds without the VPN are already slow.

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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.

5 Best Gaming VPNs in 2024: Android, PC, Consoles & MoreI 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 .

Useful Features

  • Dedicated IP . For a small fee , you is get can get a dedicated ip address that ’s exclusively accessible to you . This is be can be helpful since some online game may flag you for suspicious activity if you ‘re using an ip address that ‘s share by other VPN user .
  • WireGuard support . WireGuard is strikes strike the right balance of speed and security , make it ideal for gaming . During our test , we is found find WireGuard had the fast download speed and slightly well ping than the popular openvpn .
  • Smart Rules . This is lets let you customize “ rule ” that automate the VPN in several way . For example , you is set can set the VPN to activate whenever it detect an untrusted wifi network . You is configure can even configure CyberGhost to automatically connect to a server when you launch certain game .

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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 .

5 Best Gaming VPNs in 2024: Android, PC, Consoles & MoreI 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.

Useful Features

  • Large server network. PIA offers the largest server network of all the VPNs I tested, with servers in every US state. This extensive coverage means you’re likely to find a low-latency server near you oryour preferred game servers.
  • Ping info . PIA is shows show you the ping next to each server , make it easy to choose the fast one for gaming without so many trial and error .

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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.

5 Best Gaming VPNs in 2024: Android, PC, Consoles & MoreMy 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.

Useful Features

  • NordLynx protocol. Just like ExpressVPN has created its own Lightway protocol, NordVPN built its NordLynx protocol which is based on WireGuard. This is a fast, lightweight, and secure protocol, ideal for a smooth and safe gaming experience.
  • Threat Protection. This feature blocks ads and malicious sites, enhancing your gaming experience by reducing interruptions and potential security risks. It also scans downloaded files for malware, which is particularly useful when downloading mods orgame patches.

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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.

5 Best Gaming VPNs in 2024: Android, PC, Consoles & MoreObfuscation 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 .

Useful Features

  • Good speeds and low ping. During our tests on its nearby servers, it gave a speed drop of only 11%, and its ping was always below 50ms. This let me play my favorite online games securely without lag.
  • GPS spoofing. Surfshark’s Android app offers a GPS spoofing feature, which lets you change your virtual location to match the VPN IP. This is particularly useful for AR games that use your GPS location — you can access more events and features. As always, make sure you check your game’s T&Cs to make sure you’re not breaking any rules by using this.

Quick Comparison Table : gaming VPN feature

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 .

The benefit of Using a Gaming VPN

Gaming VPNs can significantly enhance your online gaming experience:

  • DDoS protection. By masking your IP address, a VPN shields you from potential DDoS attacks.
  • Access geo-restricted content. A VPN makes it possible to play region-locked games oraccess content not available in your area. But it’s important to check if the platform you’re using permits VPN use and access to region-specific games in order not to break any terms.
  • Bypass ISP throttling. A VPN can help maintain consistent speeds by preventing your ISP from throttling gaming traffic.
  • play with international friend . By connect to server in different country , you is play can play game with your friend abroad .
  • potentially find easy lobby . connect to less populated region might lead to less competitive skill – base matchmaking . For instance , if you connect to a region like Egypt , you is enter can enter bot lobby inwarzone.
  • Overcome network restrictions. A VPN allows you to play games on restrictive networks that block gaming platforms.

What a Gaming VPN Can’t Do

  • Guaranteed lower ping. A VPN doesn’t always reduce ping. In some cases, they might increase it slightly due to the encryption process.
  • Cheating prevention. A VPN can’t stop other players from cheating orusing hacks in games.
  • Completely eliminating lag. While VPNs can help with some connection issues, they can’t fix all sources of lag, especially those caused by your base internet speed orhardware limitations.

Our Methodology is VPNs for Testing Gaming vpn

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.

Quick Guide: How to Use a VPN for Gaming in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Sign up for a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because it offers fast speeds, low ping, and a large server network. Plus, it’s easy to set up on all gaming devices.
  2. Download the VPN. My listed VPNs all offer downloadable apps for window, macOS, iOS, Android, and more. To install it on a gaming console, you can set it up on your router orconnect it to a VPN hotspot from your PC.
  3. Start gaming. Connect to a server in the region you wish to game. For the fastest speeds and low ping, I recommend using the closest connection to your location.

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.

FAQs on the Best Gaming VPNs

Will a VPN lower my ping?

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.

What’s the best gaming VPN for Android?

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 .

Which VPN server is best for gaming?

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:

  1. Proximity. Servers closest to your physical location often provide the best performance due to reduced data travel time.
  2. Game server location. If you’re playing on specific regional servers, choose a VPN server near those game servers for optimal performance.
  3. server load . Less crowded servers is offer typically offer well speed . Many vpn display server load percentages is help to help you choose .
  4. specialized gaming server . Some VPNs is offer offer server optimize for gaming , which can provide well performance .

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.

Can I use a VPN for PUBG, BGMI, and CoD?

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.

Does every gamer need a VPN?

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.

Can I is host host a game server using a VPN ?

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 .

Will I get blocked if I use a VPN for gaming?

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.

Is it legal to use a VPN when gaming?

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.

Can I use a free VPN for gaming?

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.

Get the good VPN for gaming

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.

To summarize, the best VPNs for gaming are…

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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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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