Online gaming is thrilling, but issues like high ping or geo-restrictions can disrupt your experience. A VPN can solve these problems, offering smoother, more secure gameplay. More gamers are using VPNs to enhance their sessions in titles like Call of Duty and Forza Horizon.

As an avid gamer, I’ve tested numerous VPN services extensively. After thorough evaluation, I’ve narrowed it down to seven top choices. NordVPN stands out as the best VPN for gaming, delivering everything from a vast server network to bypass restrictions to lightning-fast speeds for low-latency play in games like Fortnite, Helldivers 2, or Minecraft. Other strong options, like CyberGhost and Surfshark, also deserve attention for their robust features.

TL;DR: Top VPNs for Gamers

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

Whichever Virtual Private Network you choose for gaming, expect encrypted internet traffic and a hidden IP address. This shields you from DDoS attacks and lets you bypass location-based restrictions to access your favorite games or servers. The best gaming VPNs can even boost performance if your ISP throttles your connection or if you connect to a server closer to the game’s infrastructure.

1. NordVPN

Top VPN for Gaming

NordVPN

NordVPN emerged as the top gaming VPN in my tests. Its NordLynx protocol prioritizes speed, letting me enjoy games like League of Legends with minimal lag. The Meshnet feature enables secure LAN gaming with friends, while its 7,000+ servers across 111 countries make bypassing restrictions effortless. It’s also a top pick for streaming.

NordVPN’s robust security ensures protection from DDoS attacks, with 256-bit AES encryption safeguarding your IP address and preventing DNS or IP leaks. It supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, but installing it on a compatible router lets you secure all devices, including your PlayStation or Xbox console.

2. CyberGhost

Best Free Trial VPN for Gaming

CyberGhost

CyberGhost boasts a vast network across 100 countries, allowing you to pick servers closer to you for lower latency. Its gaming-optimized servers in cities like London and New York (Windows) stood out in my review. A Smart DNS service also enables console connections to servers in places like the U.S.

Sorting servers by distance, load, or ping simplifies finding the fastest option. I played CS:GO lag-free. CyberGhost’s strong encryption secures your connection on public Wi-Fi, preventing disruptions during critical matches. Its 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS, no credit card needed, makes it the top free trial VPN.

3. Surfshark

Best Gaming VPN With Added Features

Surfshark

In my Surfshark review, I found it excels with fast-paced games like Call of Duty: Warzone. Its split tunneling feature lets you bypass restrictions for specific games while securing other traffic. With 3,000 servers in 100 countries, upgraded to 10Gbps, Surfshark ensures fast connections.

Surfshark’s Smart DNS lets you change locations on your Smart TV, Xbox, or PlayStation console without encryption. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections and extras like an ad blocker, Double VPN servers, and antivirus, making it a comprehensive security solution beyond just a VPN.

4. IPVanish

Best Gaming VPN for Unlimited Devices

IPVanish

IPVanish has significantly improved, offering top-tier speeds for low ping in fast-paced games like Rocket League. Its interface displays server ping and load, ideal for first-time users. With 2,400+ servers, over 1,400 in North America across two dozen cities, it’s a strong choice for U.S. gamers.

Recent updates include a secure browser, cloud storage, and Double Hop servers for extra encryption, though these may slow gaming. My tests showed no DNS or IP leaks, and IPVanish allows unlimited device connections for seamless multi-device gaming.

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

5. Proton VPN

Best Gaming VPN With a Free Tier

Proton VPN

Proton VPN impresses with over 9,000 servers in 117 countries and blazing-fast speeds. Its 10Gbps network and VPN Accelerator enhance performance, delivering lag-free Fortnite sessions in my tests. Its robust security and privacy features make it a top gaming VPN.

Proton VPN’s audited no-logs policy ensures complete anonymity, ideal for private gaming and browsing. Its 30-day money-back guarantee and free tier with unlimited data (though not gaming-suited) offer a risk-free trial.

6. ExpressVPN

Best VPN for Streaming Games

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol ensures low-latency gaming, performing well with titles like Valorant. Its speeds make it the best VPN for streaming. Custom router firmware simplifies setup on PlayStation 5, Xbox X|S, or Nintendo Switch.

With over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, ExpressVPN bypasses censorship to unlock more games. Its 256-bit AES encryption ensures secure play, and user-friendly apps come with top-tier 24/7 support for any access issues.

7. Mullvad

Best Gaming VPN for Anonymity

Mullvad

Mullvad’s smaller 700+ server network across 44 countries still delivers for gamers. Its WireGuard protocol ensures high speeds for bandwidth-heavy games. Split tunneling allows selective app bypassing, useful for lowering ping when privacy is less critical.

Mullvad prioritizes privacy with 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a no-logs policy. Its anonymous signup (no email required) and cash payment option make it uniquely private. Affordable and effective, it’s our top budget VPN.

What to Look for in a Gaming VPN

Not all VPNs suit gaming needs. Here’s what to consider when selecting one:

Best VPNs for Gaming FAQs

Why use a VPN for gaming?

A VPN encrypts your data, hides your IP, and prevents ISP throttling or DDoS attacks. It also unlocks geo-restricted games and servers by spoofing your location.

Can a VPN boost gaming speed and lower ping?

While encryption may slightly slow connections, a VPN can improve speed if your ISP throttles you. Fast VPNs may also reduce ping by connecting to servers with a direct route to game servers.

Are free VPNs good for gaming?

Most free VPNs are too slow, with limited servers, high loads, and data caps, leading to lag and high ping. They often lack strong encryption, risking IP exposure, so they’re not ideal for gaming.