Online gaming is an exciting experience, but technical issues like high ping and geographic restrictions can be a real buzzkill. That's where a VPN comes in handy. More and more gamers are using gaming VPNs to enjoy a more secure and unrestricted gaming experience, especially with popular titles like Call of Duty and Forza Horizon.
As an avid gamer, I've dedicated countless hours to testing a wide range of VPN services. After thorough testing, I've narrowed it down to seven top options. My top pick? NordVPN. It's the best VPN for gaming, offering everything from a vast global server network to lightning-fast speeds that keep your latency low for games like Fortnite, Helldivers 2, and Minecraft. Other strong contenders like CyberGhost and Surfshark also have a lot to offer and are definitely worth considering.
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 MullvadRegardless of which VPN you choose for gaming, you'll benefit from encrypted internet traffic and a hidden IP address. This not only shields you from DDoS attacks but also allows you to bypass content blocking and connect to your favorite games and servers. The best VPNs for gaming might even boost your performance if your ISP is throttling your connection or if you connect to a VPN server closer to the game server.
NordVPN
Best VPN for Gaming
### NordVPN
13See it at NordVPNProduct 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 best VPN for gaming. Its proprietary protocol, NordLynx, is optimized for speed, allowing for low-latency gaming in titles like League of Legends. The Meshnet feature is particularly useful for creating secure private networks for LAN gaming with friends. With over 7,000 servers in 111 countries, NordVPN makes bypassing geographic restrictions a breeze. It's also a top pick for streaming due to its robust performance.
NordVPN's security features are top-notch, with 256-bit AES encryption that hides your IP address and protects against DNS and IP leaks. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, or bypass this limit by installing it on a compatible router, securing all your devices including your PlayStation or Xbox console.
CyberGhost
Best Free Trial VPN for Gaming
### CyberGhost
3See it at CyberGhostProduct 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 offers a massive server network spanning 100 countries, which helps reduce latency by connecting you to a server closer to your location. Its gaming-optimized servers in key cities like London and New York are a standout feature, making it ideal for games like CS:GO. CyberGhost also includes a Smart DNS service for connecting your console to servers in countries like the U.S.
The ability to sort servers by distance, load, and ping helps you find the fastest connection available. High-end encryption keeps you safe on public Wi-Fi, preventing any interference with your connection during high-stakes matches. CyberGhost's 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS, with no credit card required, makes it the best free trial VPN for gaming.
Surfshark
Best Gaming VPN With Extra Features
### Surfshark
4See it at SurfsharkProduct 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 performs exceptionally well with fast-paced games like Call of Duty: Warzone. Its split tunneling feature allows you to bypass game-blocking IP addresses while securing the rest of your traffic. With 3,000 servers across 100 countries and all servers upgraded to 10Gbps, Surfshark ensures fast and reliable connections.
Surfshark's Smart DNS feature lets you change your location on devices like Smart TVs, Xbox, or PlayStation consoles without encrypting your traffic. The lack of a simultaneous connection limit means you can secure all your gaming devices at once. Surfshark also offers additional security features like an ad blocker, Double VPN servers, and an antivirus, making it a comprehensive security suite.
IPVanish
Best Gaming VPN for Unlimited Devices
### IPVanish
4See it at IPVanishProduct 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 made significant strides, offering some of the fastest speeds for low-ping gaming in titles like Rocket League. Its user-friendly interface helps beginners by providing shortcuts to the fastest servers and displaying each server's ping and load. For U.S. gamers, IPVanish has over 1,400 servers across North America.
Recent updates include a secure browser and cloud storage, along with Double Hop servers for extra encryption. My tests showed no DNS or IP leaks, and the unlimited device policy makes it easy to secure all your gaming setups.
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 VPNProduct 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 rapidly growing network of over 9,000 servers across 117 countries, coupled with its fast speeds, makes it an excellent choice for gaming. Its 10Gbps server network and VPN Accelerator feature ensure minimal latency in games like Fortnite.
Proton VPN's independently audited no-logs policy ensures anonymous gaming, browsing, and streaming. Its 30-day money-back guarantee and a free tier with unlimited data offer a risk-free way to test the service, though the free plan is not suitable for gaming.
ExpressVPN
Best VPN for Streaming Games
### ExpressVPN
6See it at ExpressVPNProduct 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 Lightway protocol ensures fast speeds and minimal lag, perfect for fast-paced shooters like Valorant. Its custom router firmware makes it easy to set up on consoles like PlayStation 5, Xbox X|S, or Nintendo Switch.
With servers in over 105 countries, ExpressVPN helps you access more games, especially in regions with strict censorship. Its 256-bit AES encryption ensures secure gameplay, and the user-friendly apps come with excellent 24/7 support.
Mullvad
Best Gaming VPN for Anonymity
### Mullvad
4See it at MullvadProduct 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 may have a smaller server network, but its implementation of the WireGuard protocol ensures fast connections, ideal for gaming. Its split tunneling feature allows you to choose which apps bypass the VPN tunnel, helping to reduce ping when needed.
Mullvad's commitment to privacy is unmatched, with a strict no-logs policy and no requirement for an email address during signup. It also accepts cash payments, offering true anonymity. As one of the most affordable options, Mullvad is our top pick for a budget-friendly VPN.
What to Look for in a VPN for Gaming
When choosing a gaming VPN, consider these key factors:
Server speed: Fast and consistent connections are crucial for competitive gaming. VPNs with the WireGuard protocol, unlimited bandwidth, and a large number of servers can help maintain low latency.
Server locations: Connecting to a VPN server near your physical location or the game server can improve your speed. A global server network is essential for this.
Security and privacy: A high level of encryption and comprehensive leak protection are necessary to keep your IP address hidden and protect against DDoS attacks.
Compatibility: The best gaming VPNs offer apps for all major operating systems and are often compatible with routers or offer Smart DNS services for consoles like PlayStation and Xbox.
How to Use a VPN for Gaming
Using a VPN for gaming is straightforward, even for beginners:
- 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.
- Start gaming securely with unlimited bandwidth. You may need to experiment 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, including data encryption and IP address masking, which prevent ISP throttling and protect against DDoS attacks. It also allows you to access geo-restricted games and content.
Can a VPN improve gaming speed and reduce ping times?
While VPNs can sometimes slow your connection due to encryption, they can improve gaming speed 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?
Free VPNs are typically too slow for gaming due to limited servers and high loads. They also often have speed and data limits, leading to lag and high ping times. Additionally, many free VPNs lack sufficient encryption, potentially exposing your IP address.
