Top VPNs for Gamers in 2025 Revealed

Online gaming is a thrilling experience, but technical issues like high ping and geographic restrictions can dampen the fun. Fortunately, a VPN can enhance your gaming by providing a more secure and less restrictive environment, especially for popular games like Call of Duty and Forza Horizon.

As a dedicated gamer, I've rigorously tested numerous VPN services to identify the best options for gaming. After extensive trials, I've narrowed it down to seven standout VPNs, with NordVPN emerging as the top choice for its comprehensive features tailored 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

Using a VPN for gaming encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, offering protection against DDoS attacks and enabling you to bypass content restrictions. This can also potentially improve your gaming performance by circumventing ISP throttling or by connecting to a VPN server closer to the game server.

1. 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 excels as the best VPN for gaming, thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol designed for speed. I experienced low latency while playing games like League of Legends. The Meshnet feature is perfect for secure LAN gaming with friends. With over 7,000 servers across 111 countries, NordVPN effortlessly bypasses blocks and is also a top choice for streaming.

The robust 256-bit AES encryption ensures protection against DDoS attacks and safeguards against IP leaks. NordVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, but installing it on a compatible router allows you to secure all connected devices, including your PlayStation or Xbox console.

2. 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 boasts a vast server network across 100 countries, allowing you to connect to a server near your location for reduced latency. Its gaming-optimized servers in key cities like London and New York (Windows) make it a standout choice. Additionally, the Smart DNS service enables console gaming in countries like the U.S.

The ability to sort servers by distance, load, and ping helps find the fastest server. I played CS:GO without lag. CyberGhost's high-end encryption is perfect for public Wi-Fi gaming, preventing interference. With a 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS, it's the best free trial VPN available.

3. 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 performs exceptionally well with fast-paced games like Call of Duty: Warzone. Its split tunneling feature allows you to bypass game blocks while securing other traffic. With 3,000 servers across 100 countries and all servers upgraded to 10Gbps, Surfshark ensures fast speeds.

Surfshark's Smart DNS feature supports location changes on Smart TVs, Xbox, and PlayStation consoles. Unlike many VPNs, it offers unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing secure gaming across all your devices. Surfshark also includes an ad blocker, Double VPN servers, and antivirus, making it a comprehensive security suite.

4. 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 in competitive games like Rocket League. Its user-friendly interface includes shortcuts to the fastest servers and displays server ping and load. U.S. gamers benefit from over 1,400 servers in North America.

Recent updates include a secure browser and cloud storage, along with Double Hop servers for enhanced encryption. My tests confirmed no DNS or IP leaks, and IPVanish allows unlimited device connections.

Disclosure: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, IGN's parent company.

5. 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 and fast speeds make it ideal for gaming. Its 10Gbps server network and VPN Accelerator feature boost performance, ensuring low latency in games like Fortnite. Proton VPN's independently audited no-logs policy guarantees anonymous gaming and browsing.

The free tier offers unlimited data, though it's not suitable for gaming. However, it's a great way to try Proton VPN risk-free, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

6. 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 Lightway protocol ensures minimal lag and fast speeds for games like Valorant. Its custom router firmware simplifies setup for PlayStation 5, Xbox X|S, and Nintendo Switch. With servers in over 105 countries, ExpressVPN helps access geo-restricted games.

The 256-bit AES encryption keeps your gaming secure, and ExpressVPN's user-friendly apps come with excellent 24/7 support.

7. 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 offers fast speeds with the WireGuard protocol, ideal for gaming. Its split tunneling feature allows you to bypass the VPN for lower ping. Mullvad prioritizes privacy with 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy.

The anonymous signup process and cash payment options make Mullvad a top choice for privacy-conscious gamers. It's also 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 and consistent connections are crucial for competitive gaming. VPNs using WireGuard, offering unlimited bandwidth, and numerous servers ensure low latency.
• Server locations: Connecting to a nearby VPN server can improve speed. A global server network is essential for accessing game servers efficiently.
• Security and privacy: High-level encryption and leak protection prevent DDoS attacks and keep your IP address hidden.
• Compatibility: Ensure the VPN supports your gaming device, whether it's a PC, mobile, or console. Router compatibility and Smart DNS services enhance usability.

How to Use a VPN for Gaming

Using a VPN for gaming is straightforward:

1. Choose your preferred gaming VPN and sign up.
2. Download the VPN app compatible with your gaming device.
3. Follow the installation instructions.
4. Log in to the VPN app and connect to a server near your location.
5. Start gaming securely with unlimited bandwidth, experimenting with different servers for optimal performance.

Best VPNs for Gaming FAQs

Why should I use a VPN for gaming?

A VPN encrypts your data and hides your IP address, preventing ISP throttling and 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 typically slow connections due to encryption, they can improve speed if your ISP is throttling your connection. A VPN server closer to the game server may also reduce ping times.

Can I use a free VPN for gaming?

Free VPNs are generally too slow for gaming, with limited servers, speed, and data. They often lack sufficient encryption, risking exposure of your IP address.