Best VPN for Gaming in 2024: Reduce Ping & Latency

  • Last updated August 30, 2024
  • Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Editor
    Naveen Zehra, an editor at VPNRanks.com, has a decade of writing experience. With a strong background in tech and privacy, she creates easy VPN guides. Passionate about privacy, she understands data tracking and its impacts, ensuring her insights resonate with readers.
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    written by
    Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Naveen Zehra
    Editor
    Naveen Zehra, an editor at VPNRanks.com, has a decade of writing experience. With a strong background in tech and privacy, she creates easy VPN guides. Passionate about privacy, she understands data tracking and its impacts, ensuring her insights resonate with readers.
    See Full Bio >
    Editor

Like wireless headsets and mechanical keyboards, VPNs have become essential for serious and casual gamers. The best VPN for gaming can reduce latency, protect against DDoS attacks, and offer cheaper game prices.

While you can enjoy gaming without a VPN, having one can give you an edge, especially in games like Warzone or Valorant, where every millisecond counts. Considering that 37% of gamers experience DDoS, I extensively tested the market’s biggest VPNs and identified the top five for gaming.

The best VPN services offers the fastest speeds, are easy to use, provide strong security, and have features that enhance your gaming experience. However, per my tests, ExpressVPN is ideal for gaming due to its ultra-fast speeds and low latency, ensuring a smooth and lag-free experience. Its extensive server network provides reliable connections, reducing the chances of lag or disconnections.

Key Takeaways:

  • Top VPN Recommendations for Gamers: Discover the best VPNs specifically optimized for gaming, including NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost, offering high-speed performance and minimal lag.
  • DDoS Protection and Security: Learn how these VPNs offer robust protection against DDoS attacks and other online threats, ensuring secure and uninterrupted gaming sessions.
  • Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Find out how to access geo-restricted games and servers, allowing you to play with friends worldwide and access exclusive gaming content.
  • Avoid ISP Throttling: Understand how using a VPN can help you bypass ISP throttling, guaranteeing a consistent and smooth gaming experience.
  • Ease of Use and Compatibility: Explore the user-friendly features and compatibility of these VPNs with various gaming devices and platforms, including PCs, consoles, and mobile devices.

Quick Overview: Best VPN for Gaming [Updated 2024]

Wondering what is the best game VPN right now? Here’s an updated quick overview of the best VPN for gaming:

Side-by-Side Comparison – Best VPNs for Gaming in 2024

Check the side-by-side comparison of the best gamer VPN in 2024:

VPNs ExpressVPN-logo surfshark-logo NordVPN-logo CyberGhost-logo IPVanish-Logo
Security AES 256-bit AES 256-bit AES 256-bit AES 256-bit AES 256-bit
Multi-logins 8 Unlimited 10 7 Unlimited
Speed 89.42 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection 81.32 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection 83.82 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection 75.47 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection 86.75 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection
Compatibility Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, routers Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, routers Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, routers Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, routers Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, routers
Pricing $6.67/mo $2.49/mo $3.99/mo $2.03/mo $2.99/mo

The Best VPN for Gaming – In-Depth Analysis [Updated 2024]

For gamers, finding the best VPN gaming is critical. With the need for fast protocols and minimal lag, services like ExpressVPN lead the industry with dedicated gaming servers or VPN accelerators.

Whether you’re gaming locally or connecting to international servers, this in-depth review helps you find the best VPN for accessing international games that matches your gaming style and needs:

Comparing VPNs on the Basis of Latency & Security Score

Here are the two factors for comparing the top VPNs for online gaming:

Fastest VPNs for FPS Games: Latency Comparison

graph-representation-of-latency

Most Secure VPN for RPGs: Security Score Comparison

graph-representation-of-security-comparison

Why Do You Need a VPN for Gaming?

Using the best VPN games USA is more than just accessing restricted gaming lobbies; it’s about enhancing your overall gaming experience. Games can ban an IP address due to disapproved behavior or rule violations. However, players can circumvent an IP ban using a VPN, which masks their original IP and assigns a new one, allowing them to re-enter the game from a different address.

There are many other reasons why gamers must use a VPN for gaming. These are as follows:

  • Boosting Internet Speed: Most ISPs intercept and throttle your Internet speeds while gaming. This is because gamers consume high bandwidth, which ISPs limit by throttling your connection. Therefore, using a VPN is the best way to circumvent ISP throttling.
  • Buying Region-Specific Games: Although you can purchase several online games, some popular games are geo-restricted and unavailable to everyone. Sometimes, the in-app game price differs region-wise or is unavailable. This is where a VPN can provide help.
  • Lifting a Ban: It is no secret that some online gamers cheat during online gaming to win free points or upgrade levels and eventually face a ban. Game owners can ban your IP address so you cannot play again. But you can use a VPN to connect to a different IP address of a game server, ensuring minimal delays and a more enjoyable gaming session.
  • Play while traveling: While traveling to any other country or region, marketplaces may not recognize you since you’ll be logged in from a different IP address and may not process your payments. You can easily circumvent this inconvenience by connecting to a VPN with the server region of your profile.

How to Choose and Test a VPN for Gaming?

Selecting the best VPN for gaming involves key considerations like connection speeds, server network, security features, and the number of simultaneous connections. Choosing a VPN with router support is essential for gaming consoles, while compatibility with streaming services ensures entertainment beyond gaming.

Moreover, dedicated IPs and user reviews are also essential factors. Here is the list of different factors that I considered when choosing the best VPN for games:

  • Connection Speeds: Speed is essential when choosing the best VPN for gamers. It minimizes latency and ensures smooth gameplay.
  • Server Network: Get a VPN with server locations near USA for the fastest speeds. Choose VPNs with servers close to USA to ensure optimal performance. My top recommendation is ExpressVPN, which offers servers in over 105 countries, including nearby locations like Lebanon and Egypt.
  • Security Features: My assessment prioritized VPNs with robust Encryption, DNS/IP leak prevention, and strong privacy policies. This ensures the protection of sensitive gaming data and enhances overall security while gaming.
  • Simultaneous Connections: I considered the number of simultaneous connections allowed by each VPN, enabling gamers to connect multiple devices without compromising performance or security.
  • Additional Functionalities: Beyond basic features, I looked for VPNs offering extra functionalities tailored for gaming, such as mesh net, port forwarding, split tunneling, and quick tunneling protocols, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
  • Affordability: I ensured that the selected VPNs offer reasonable pricing plans, free trials, and money-back guarantees, making them accessible to gamers without sacrificing security or speed.
  • User Reviews and Ratings: To provide a comprehensive assessment, I considered user experiences from trusted platforms like Reddit and Quora, ensuring insights from real users inform the recommendations.
  • Expert Analysis: In addition to my testing, I consulted with cybersecurity professionals to identify standout features, ease of use, popularity, and value for money provided by each VPN, ensuring expert insights shape gaming recommendations.
  • Console and Streaming Support: Ensure router support for gaming consoles and compatibility with streaming services for an all-in-one solution.

Do All Gamers Need a VPN?

While not essential for every gamer, a VPN can help reduce latency and protect your privacy during online gaming sessions. It ensures your online data remains shielded from potential surveillance by your internet provider, government entities, or advertisers aiming to track your browsing habits for targeted advertising.

However, using a VPN isn’t always convenient, especially during online gaming. Regardless of the VPN’s speed or quality, it will inevitably impact your internet speed. Additionally, running a VPN app in the background can strain your device’s resources.

Although it’s not always feasible, using a VPN whenever possible is advisable. This practice enhances online security and privacy, providing better protection while engaging in online activities.

How to Set Up a VPN on Different Gaming Devices

Setting up a VPN on your gaming devices can enhance security and improve performance by routing your internet traffic through a secure server. Here are simple steps to configure a VPN on Android, iOS, PCs, and gaming consoles:

Android Devices:

  1. Download and install the VPN app from the Google Play Store (e.g., ExpressVPN).
  2. Open the app and sign in with your account credentials.
  3. Select a server location and tap the Connect” button.
  4. Once connected, your device’s internet traffic will be routed through the VPN server.

iOS Devices:

  1. Download and install the VPN app from the Google Play Store (e.g., ExpressVPN).
  2. Open the app and sign in with your account credentials.
  3. Select a server location and tap the Connect” button.
  4. Once connected, your iOS device will route all internet traffic through the VPN server.

PCs (Windows/Mac):

  1. Download and install the VPN client software from the provider’s website (e.g., ExpressVPN).
  2. Launch the application and log in with your account details.
  3. Select a server location and click the Connect” button.
  4. Once connected, all internet traffic on your PC will be secured and routed through the VPN server.

Gaming Consoles (PS4/PS5, Xbox):

Option 1: VPN Router:

  1. Set up the VPN on your router by logging into your router’s admin panel and entering your VPN credentials.
  2. Connect your gaming console to the VPN-enabled router.
  3. All devices connected to the router will use the VPN.

Option 2: Sharing VPN from PC:

  1. Connect your PC to the VPN and enable internet sharing.
  2. Connect your gaming console to the PC via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
  3. The gaming console will use the PC’s VPN connection.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a secure and optimized gaming experience on your preferred device.

Troubleshooting VPN Disconnections During Gaming

Experiencing frequent VPN disconnections during gaming can be frustrating. Here are some steps to help resolve these issues:

1. Change Your VPN Settings:

  • Verify your VPN configuration and consider switching protocols (e.g., from OpenVPN to WireGuard).
  • Adjust encryption settings for better stability.

2. Change Your WiFi Settings:

  • Ensure a strong and stable WiFi connection or switch to a wired connection.
  • Change your WiFi channel to reduce interference.

3. Restart Your Router:

  • Power off your router for 30 seconds and then restart it to refresh network settings.

4. Update Your Router Firmware:

  • Check for and install any available firmware updates to improve performance and stability.

5. Use a Different Port:

  • Switch to a different port as some ISPs may block or throttle VPN connections on certain ports. Consult your VPN provider for recommendations.

6. Circumvent Device Limits:

  • Ensure you’re not exceeding your VPN’s device limit, which can cause disconnections. Upgrade your plan if necessary or disconnect unused devices.

By following these steps, you can address common VPN disconnection issues and enjoy a more stable gaming experience.

Summary of Reddit Threads on VPN Recommendations for Gaming

General Insights:

  • Importance of VPNs: VPNs enhance gaming experiences and protect user privacy by preventing ISPs from selling data.
  • Selection Criteria: Key factors include server reliability, speed, privacy protections, and modern protocols like WireGuard.

Top VPN Recommendations:

  • NordVPN: This VPN offers robust security features and reliability, reducing lag and latency, making it ideal for gaming.
  • ExpressVPN: This VPN is known for its fast speeds, ease of use, and strong customer support, making it effective for accessing streaming services and reducing gaming ping.
  • Surfshark: Surfshark is budget-friendly, with fast speeds and a vast server selection, making it simple to use and cost-effective for gamers.
  • CyberGhost: This VPN is underrated, especially good for newcomers, offering no bandwidth limits, strong encryption, and easy setup.

Additional Recommendations:

  • VyprVPN and Outfox: Reliable for gaming.
  • Private Internet Access (PIA): Reduces ping and lag.
  • ProtonVPN: Strong privacy protections and a decent free tier.

Overall, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are top choices for gaming and streaming, providing a balance of speed, security, and reliability. In my opinion, ExpressVPN stands out as the best option due to its consistently fast speeds, excellent user support, and robust performance across various applications.

Other VPNs I Tested for Gaming

Other VPNs I tested for gaming include:

  • ProtonVPN: Known for its strong privacy policies and security features, ProtonVPN offers decent speeds and a good network of servers. It has a free tier that doesn’t compromise your data privacy, though it may have limited server options.
  • Private Internet Access (PIA): PIA provides an extensive network of servers and strong privacy protections. It offers good speeds and reliable performance, making it a solid choice for gaming.
  • VyprVPN: Known for its proprietary Chameleon protocol, VyprVPN offers good speeds and security features. It has a reliable network of servers that can help reduce lag and improve gaming performance.

Each of these VPNs has its strengths and may suit different gaming needs, depending on your specific speed, security, and server location requirements.

Are There Any Free Gaming VPNs?

Yes, free VPNs are available for gaming, but I don’t recommend them. Free VPNs often offer limited servers, leading to fewer choices for gaming. These servers are usually overloaded, resulting in slow speeds and unreliable connections. Therefore, Proton VPN provides the best free plan for gaming. However, it restricts you to US, Netherlands, Japan, Romania, and Poland servers.

So, for a better experience, I recommend using a premium VPN like ExpressVPN. With its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can enjoy its robust features and extensive server network for a month, ensuring optimal gaming performance.

Free vs. Paid VPNs for Gaming

Here’s a quick comparison between the free and paid VPNs for gaming:

Features Free VPNs Paid VPNs
Speed Often slower due to limited resources Generally faster with premium servers
Data Limits Typically has data caps Usually unlimited data
Server Locations Limited server options Extensive server network
Privacy and Security Basic encryption, potential data logging Advanced encryption, strict no-logs policy
Connection Reliability More prone to connection drops More stable and reliable connections
Customer Support Limited or no support 24/7 customer support
Usage Restrictions May restrict torrenting and streaming Supports torrenting and unblocking streaming services
Additional Features Few or none Includes features like ad-blocking, kill switch, etc.

More VPN Guides for Other Games:

FAQs – Best VPN for Gaming

So, now that you know why and which gaming VPNs you should use, let’s go through some of the most frequently asked questions about gaming VPNs.

The best VPN server for gaming is the one nearest to the game servers you’re connecting to. Generally, the greater the distance between a VPN server and either your local network or the game server, the slower your upload and download speeds will be.

Most gamers prefer ExpressVPN for their gaming needs. It’s particularly favored for gaming consoles, offering a reliable connection without sacrificing speed. With server locations spanning over 105 countries, gamers can effortlessly play with others worldwide.

Yes, using a VPN for gaming is worth it. Using a VPN can reduce lag and ping rates (latency). For gamers, this location spoofing offers additional advantages. By connecting to remote servers, you can circumvent congested hosts with high latency, resulting in a smoother and more competitive gaming experience.

Yes, a VPN can help you reduce pings and improve the speed of your network connection. In simple words, a VPN can lower your ping by transmitting your data traffic through a more direct path than it would through your ordinary network connection.

Using a VPN for gaming isn’t illegal, but it’s important to note that bypassing an IP ban by using a VPN violates the terms of service for most online games. While a VPN can help you appear in the game with a different IP address, doing so to evade an IP ban can result in further penalties from the game’s administrators.

ExpressVPN stands out as the best VPN for gaming due to its exceptional combination of speed, unblocking capabilities, and security. Its optimized protocols are designed for high-speed performance. With unlimited bandwidth, ExpressVPN ensures smooth, lag-free gaming experiences.

Using a VPN is preferable to a proxy for gaming because virtual private networks offer faster speeds and stronger security compared to proxy servers.

WireGuard surpasses OpenVPN in speed, generally providing faster internet upload and download speeds. However, OpenVPN prioritizes privacy over speed, making it a better choice for security-focused VPN usage during gaming.

Yes, a VPN can help reduce packet loss during gaming by routing your traffic through optimized servers, which can provide a more stable and direct connection to the game servers. This can help circumvent congested or problematic network routes that might be causing packet loss.

Final Thoughts

To enjoy online gaming to the fullest, you need to use the best VPN for gaming. Opting for the best gaming VPN USA will help you avoid ISP throttling, attain lower pings, avoid DDoS attacks, and unblock geo-restricted games.

Out of all the VPNs I tested, ExpressVPN was the best VPN for gaming due to its fast speeds, extensive network of servers, and absolute anonymity through multiple security features.

Recent Comments 2

  • John Markel says:
    January 19, 2018 at 9:28 am

    I am using nordvpn for my gaming experience, and I never experienced any speed drops so I am glad I have it. They have a three days trial for everyone to have a try. It is worth it.

    Reply

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