Top Gaming VPNs for 2025 Revealed

Online gaming is a thrilling experience, but technical issues like high ping or geographic restrictions can hamper your fun. A VPN can be your solution, enhancing security and allowing you to bypass limitations when playing games like Call of Duty and Forza Horizon. As an avid gamer, I've tested numerous VPN services and narrowed them down to the top seven, with NordVPN standing out as the best VPN for gaming due to its global server network and fast speeds that keep latency low for games like Fortnite, Helldivers 2, and Minecraft. Other notable options include CyberGhost and Surfshark, each offering unique features that cater to different gaming needs.

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 VPN you choose, your internet traffic and IP address will be encrypted, safeguarding against DDoS attacks and enabling you to spoof your location to access your favorite games and servers. The best VPNs for gaming can even enhance your performance if your ISP throttles your connection or if you connect to a VPN server closer to the game server.

1. NordVPN

Best VPN for Gaming

### NordVPN

13See it at NordVPNProduct SpecificationsPricingStarting from $3.09/mo.Simultaneous connections10Servers7,000+Countries118PlatformsWindows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVPROSImpressive network of serversMeshnet feature for LAN gamingCONSApps are a little clutteredNordVPN emerges as the top choice for gamers in my testing and review. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol prioritizes speed, enabling seamless gameplay in games like League of Legends with minimal latency. The Meshnet feature allows for secure LAN gaming with friends. With over 7,000 servers across 111 countries, NordVPN effortlessly bypasses blocks, making it a favorite for streaming as well.

NordVPN's robust security, featuring 256-bit AES encryption, shields your IP from DDoS attacks and protects against DNS and IP leaks. It supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, but installing it on a compatible router can secure all connected devices, including your PlayStation or Xbox console.

2. CyberGhost

Best Free Trial VPN for Gaming

### CyberGhost

3See it at CyberGhostProduct SpecificationsPricingStarting from $2.03/mo.Simultaneous connections7ServersUndisclosedCountries100PlatformsWindows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TVPROSVast server networkGaming-optimized serversCONSStill lacking an Apple TV appCyberGhost boasts a vast server network across 100 countries, allowing you to connect to servers closer to home for reduced latency. Its gaming-optimized servers in cities like London and New York enhance your gaming experience on Windows. CyberGhost also offers 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 available server, ensuring lag-free gaming in titles like CS:GO. High-end encryption keeps you secure on public Wi-Fi, preventing interference with your connection during high-stakes matches. CyberGhost's 24-hour free trial for Windows and MacOS, requiring no credit card, makes it the best free trial VPN available.

3. Surfshark

Best Gaming VPN With Extra Features

### Surfshark

4See it at SurfsharkProduct SpecificationsPricingStarting from $1.99/mo.Simultaneous connectionsUnlimitedServers3,000+Countries100PlatformsWindows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVIn my Surfshark review, I found it performs exceptionally well with fast-paced games like Call of Duty: Warzone. Its split tunneling feature lets you bypass game blocks while securing the rest of your traffic. With 3,000 servers across 100 countries, Surfshark ensures you can always connect to a nearby server. Recent upgrades to 10Gbps servers further enhance speed.

Surfshark's Smart DNS feature allows location spoofing on your Smart TV or Xbox and PlayStation consoles, though it doesn't encrypt traffic. Unlike many VPNs, Surfshark imposes no simultaneous connection limit, enabling secure gaming on all your devices. It also includes security extras like 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 IPVanishProduct SpecificationsPricingStarting from $2.19/mo.Simultaneous connectionsUnlimitedServers2,400+Countries100PlatformsWindows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVPROSSee each server’s ping and loadNumerous new featuresCONSOperates 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 helps you connect to the fastest server, and you can view each server’s ping and load. For U.S. gamers, IPVanish has over 1,400 servers in North America across multiple cities.

Recent updates to IPVanish include a secure browser and cloud storage. Double Hop servers offer additional encryption but may slow down your connection, making them better suited for sensitive browsing than gaming. My tests confirmed no DNS or IP leaks, and there's no limit on the number of devices you can secure simultaneously.

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 SpecificationsPricingStarting from $4.49/mo.Simultaneous connections10Servers9,000+Countries117PlatformsWindows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, Apple TVPROSExcellent server speedsTrue no-logs policyCONSLive chat isn’t 24/7Proton VPN stands out with its rapidly expanding network of over 9,000 servers in 117 countries and incredibly fast speeds, ideal for gaming. Its VPN Accelerator feature improves forwarding efficiency, ensuring no noticeable latency in games like Fortnite.

Proton VPN's commitment to privacy is unmatched, with a true no-logs policy that's been independently audited, allowing for completely anonymous gaming, browsing, and streaming. You can try Proton VPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee, and it even offers a free tier with unlimited data, though not suitable for gaming.

6. ExpressVPN

Best VPN for Streaming Games

### ExpressVPN

6See it at ExpressVPNProduct SpecificationsPricingStarting from $4.99/mo.Simultaneous connections8ServersUndisclosedCountries105PlatformsWindows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVPROSConsistent unblockerCustom firmware for routersCONSA more expensive optionExpressVPN's Lightway protocol delivers consistent speeds, minimizing lag in fast-paced games like Valorant. This makes it our best VPN for streaming. Its custom router firmware simplifies setup with devices like the PlayStation 5, Xbox X|S, or Nintendo Switch.

With servers in over 105 countries, ExpressVPN helps you access games regardless of censorship. Its 256-bit AES encryption ensures secure gameplay, and its easy-to-navigate apps are complemented by the best 24/7 support in the industry.

7. Mullvad

Best Gaming VPN for Anonymity

### Mullvad

4See it at MullvadProduct SpecificationsPricingFlat rate of €5/mo. (~$5.65) Simultaneous connections5Servers700+Countries44PlatformsWindows, Mac, Android, iOS, LinuxPROSWireGuard protocol for fast speedsAnonymous signupCONSSmaller server networkMullvad's smaller server network is still sufficient for most gamers. Its WireGuard protocol offers fast speeds, ideal for gaming. The split tunneling feature allows you to choose which apps bypass the VPN, potentially lowering ping.

Mullvad prioritizes privacy with 256-bit AES encryption, leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. It doesn't require an email for signup and accepts cash payments, making it truly anonymous. At a flat rate of €5 per month, Mullvad is 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, consistent connections are crucial for competitive gaming. The fastest VPNs use the WireGuard protocol, offer unlimited bandwidth, and have numerous servers to minimize latency.

Server locations: Connecting to servers near your location or the game server can enhance your gaming experience. A global server network is essential.

Security and privacy: High-level encryption and comprehensive leak protection are necessary to hide your IP and protect against DDoS attacks.

Compatibility: The best gaming VPNs are compatible with all major operating systems and some offer router compatibility or Smart DNS services for consoles.

How to Use a VPN for Gaming

Using a VPN for gaming is straightforward:

1. Choose and sign up for your preferred gaming VPN.
2. Download the VPN app compatible with your gaming device.
3. Follow the installation instructions.
4. Log in and connect to a server, ideally one near your location.
5. Start gaming securely with unlimited bandwidth, experimenting 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 multiple benefits. It encrypts your data and hides your IP, preventing ISP throttling and DDoS attacks. It also allows you to spoof your location 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 you're experiencing ISP throttling. 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 generally too slow for gaming due to limited servers and heavy load. They also have speed and data limits, leading to lag and high ping times. Additionally, free VPNs often have insufficient encryption, risking exposure of your IP address.