Top VPNs for Gamers in 2025

Online gaming is a fantastic pastime, but technical issues like high ping or geographic restrictions can seriously hamper your experience. Thankfully, a VPN can be a game-changer, offering a more secure and less restricted gaming environment for titles like Call of Duty and Forza Horizon.

As an avid gamer, I've tested numerous VPN services to find the best fit for gaming. After rigorous testing, I've narrowed it down to seven top contenders, with NordVPN emerging as the ultimate choice for gamers. NordVPN boasts a comprehensive global server network, which is crucial for bypassing geographic blocks, and offers blazing-fast speeds essential for maintaining low latency in games such as Fortnite, Helldivers 2, and Minecraft. While NordVPN leads the pack, other notable options like CyberGhost and Surfshark also provide robust features 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 MullvadNo matter which Virtual Private Network you choose, your internet traffic and IP address will be encrypted. This not only shields you from potential DDoS attacks but also allows you to change your virtual location, helping you access games and servers that might be blocked in your region. In some cases, the best VPNs for gaming can even enhance your performance by mitigating ISP throttling or connecting you to servers closer to the game's host.

1. 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 in my testing and review. Its proprietary VPN protocol, NordLynx, is designed for speed, allowing me to play games like League of Legends with minimal latency. The Meshnet feature is particularly useful for creating secure private networks for LAN gaming with friends. With over 7,000 servers across 111 countries, NordVPN effortlessly bypasses geographic restrictions. This makes it not only ideal for gaming but also one of our top picks for streaming.

NordVPN's robust security features mean you're protected from DDoS attacks, with 256-bit AES encryption that hides your IP address and prevents DNS and IP leaks. While it allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, you can extend this by installing it on a compatible router, securing all your devices, including your PlayStation or Xbox console.

2. 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, though it no longer discloses the exact number, covering 100 countries. This allows 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, as confirmed in my review. CyberGhost also provides 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. I experienced no lag while playing CS:GO with CyberGhost. The high-end encryption ensures your safety on public Wi-Fi, protecting you from interference during high-stakes matches. With a 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS, CyberGhost is the best free trial VPN for gaming.

3. 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

In my Surfshark review, I found it performs exceptionally well with fast-paced games like Call of Duty: Warzone. Even if a game blocks Surfshark IP addresses, its split tunneling feature allows you to bypass this while securing the rest of your traffic. With 3,000 servers across 100 countries, you're likely to find a nearby server. Surfshark recently upgraded all servers to 10Gbps for even faster speeds.

Surfshark includes Smart DNS, which lets you change your location on your Smart TV or Xbox or PlayStation console without encrypting your traffic. Unlike many VPNs, Surfshark doesn't limit simultaneous connections, allowing you to game securely on any device. It also offers additional security features like an ad blocker, Double VPN servers, and an antivirus, making it a comprehensive security suite.

4. 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 significantly improved its service, offering some of the fastest speeds available, which translates to low ping times for competitive games like Rocket League. New users will appreciate the shortcut to the fastest server and the ability to view each server's ping and load. If you're in the U.S., IPVanish's extensive network, with over 1,400 servers in North America across two dozen cities, is particularly advantageous.

Recent updates include a secure browser and cloud storage. The new Double Hop servers provide an extra layer of encryption but are better suited for sensitive browsing than gaming. My tests confirmed no DNS or IP leaks, and the unlimited simultaneous connections are a major plus.

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 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, now over 9,000 servers in 117 countries, offers incredibly fast speeds, making it a top choice for gaming. Its 10Gbps server network, combined with a VPN Accelerator feature, overcomes CPU limitations and boosts forwarding efficiency. My tests with Fortnite showed no noticeable latency.

Proton VPN's true no-logs policy, independently audited, ensures your anonymity while gaming, browsing, and streaming. You can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and it even offers a free tier with unlimited data, though it's not suitable for gaming.

6. 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 proprietary Lightway protocol ensures consistent high speeds, making it ideal for fast-paced tactical shooters like Valorant. These speeds also make it our top choice for streaming games. ExpressVPN's custom router firmware simplifies setup on devices like the PlayStation 5, Xbox X|S, or Nintendo Switch.

With over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, ExpressVPN helps you access games regardless of strict censorship in your region. The 256-bit AES encryption ensures secure gameplay, and its user-friendly apps are complemented by the best 24/7 support in the industry.

7. 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 it's still sufficient for most gaming needs. The implementation of the WireGuard protocol makes Mullvad one of the fastest VPNs, ideal for bandwidth-heavy tasks like gaming. Its split tunneling feature allows you to choose which apps bypass the VPN tunnel, useful for reducing ping.

For gamers prioritizing privacy, Mullvad offers 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. What sets it apart is its anonymous signup process, which doesn't require an email address and accepts cash payments. Additionally, Mullvad is highly affordable, making it our top pick for a budget-friendly VPN.

What to Look for in a VPN for Gaming

Not all VPNs are suitable for gaming, and the best ones will vary based on your specific needs. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a gaming VPN:

Server speed: A fast, consistent connection is crucial for competitive gaming. VPNs using the WireGuard protocol, offering unlimited bandwidth, and having numerous servers can help ensure low latency gaming.

Server locations: Connecting to servers near your physical location or the game server can improve speeds. A VPN with a global server network is essential for this.

Security and privacy: A high level of encryption and protection against leaks are necessary to keep your IP address hidden and prevent DDoS attacks.

Compatibility: The best gaming VPNs should be compatible with all major operating systems. Some also offer router compatibility or Smart DNS services for consoles like PlayStation or Xbox.

How to Use a VPN for Gaming

Using a VPN for gaming is straightforward, even for beginners:

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 (preferably one near your location).
5. You can now game securely with unlimited bandwidth. 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. It encrypts your data and hides your IP address, protecting you from ISP throttling and DDoS attacks. Additionally, it 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 down your connection due to encryption, they can improve gaming speeds if you're experiencing ISP throttling. In some cases, the fastest VPNs might even reduce ping times by providing a more direct route to the game server than your ISP.

Can I use a free VPN for gaming?

Most free VPNs are too slow for gaming due to limited servers and high load. They often have speed and data limits, resulting in lag and high ping times. Additionally, free VPNs may not offer sufficient encryption, potentially exposing your IP address, so they're generally not recommended for gaming.