7 Best VPNs for Gaming in 2023

Without a tool to optimize it, your Web connection's lag and high ping can make your gaming sessions frustrating. You also need to navigate around ISP bandwidth throttling, IP-based bans, DDoS attacks, and swatting. Also, playing geo-restricted games and getting collectibles available in certain regions is impossible without a powerful gaming VPN.

However, what you need is truly the best VPN for gaming, featuring ultra-fast speeds, plenty of server locations, and gaming-friendly features. That’s how a VPN will minimize your ping, eliminate latency, bypass throttling, unblock games, protect your privacy, and plenty more.

That said, this guide will show you the 7 best VPNs for gaming, which we recommend after testing 65+ top gaming VPNs so far. We’ll also show you how to use a VPN for gaming, how to fix technical issues, avoid potential VPN bans, answer some FAQs, and more.

Top 7 Best Gaming VPNs - Our Shortlist

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated Fastest VPN for Gaming in 2023
2. Surfshark - Best Gaming VPN If You Prioritize Privacy
3. ExpressVPN - Best VPN for First-Time Users
4. CyberGhost VPN - Best VPN for Games with Extensive Servers
5. Private Internet Access - Best VPN for Experienced Users
6. Ivacy - Best Budget-Friendly Option
7. IPVanish - Best Fully-Automated VPN

How to Use a VPN for Gaming

Using a VPN for your gaming sessions is quite easy. You just need to be careful when picking a VPN server. So, you'll want to do the following:

1. Subscribe to a VPN optimized for gaming (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on the device(s) you use to play games.
3. Open the VPN app and use your credentials to log in.
4. Pick a VPN server based on its location and initialize your VPN session.
5. Go ahead and start your gameplay session. That's it!

We have an additional tip. If you want to secure your Internet connection only, you can use the nearest server you can find. However, if you want to unblock a game, pick a server in a country where that game is available. Find more tips in our guide on how to use a VPN for gaming.

The Best VPNs for Gaming in 2023

Finding the best VPN for gaming requires you to follow certain criteria based on your goals and the types of games you play. For example, if you play online shooters, you'll want a VPN that gives you access to bot lobbies, helping you rise through the ranks quickly. You'll also want a sizable server network covering as many VPN locations as possible.

Let's not forget about performance and speed, as your gaming VPN must have the ability to minimize ping and keep latency under control. You'll also want to avoid potential VPN bans, which is why you'll want a VPN with a kill switch, protecting you against data leaks.

Next, go for a gaming VPN with high-end security, which covers strong protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard) and robust encryption (AES-256, ChaCha20). Of course, ensure there are enough simultaneous connections as well as native apps for all your devices (you'll want to install a VPN on a router to get it to work on your console or use its native software on a computer).

Lastly, make your purchase risk-free by getting a VPN for gaming that has a money-back policy. Most reputable VPNs give you 30 days to change your mind and ask for a refund. Also, you'll need 24/7 live chat customer support for those times when technical issues arise.

Based on the criteria explained just above, here are the 7 best VPNs for gaming in 2023.

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated Fastest VPN for Gaming in 2023

NordVPN is the best gaming VPN that promises excellent privacy and security while giving you access to bot lobbies and gaming-centric VPN features. This VPN is known for encrypting connections flawlessly. That's why we believe it's one of the best gaming VPNs for those prioritizing privacy.

In terms of its server network, you'll find 5,500+ servers across 60 countries. Still, know that NordVPN might also slow you down a bit, especially when using specialized servers. In that sense, you'll find servers that obfuscate your data, send it through the Tor network, and more.

NordVPN's 'DoubleVPN' encryption system is designed so that it encrypts both outbound and inbound data using AES-256-CBC twice. In other words, if you want to protect your gaming sessions from DDoS attacks and prevent online trackers, NordVPN should be your pick.

NordVPN's obfuscated servers are especially handy for hiding your data, which is why the VPN can unblock even the toughest-to-unblock game marketplaces out here. You also get a kill switch to prevent data leaks, as well as strong protocols (OpenVPN, NordLynx).

Despite its high-end privacy-protecting features, this VPN can help lower your ping, which means you'll ensure minimal latency. This makes NordVPN suitable even for fast-paced online shooters.

Let's not forget to mention that NordVPN brings easy-to-use applications for computers and mobile devices, and it supports routers as well. You'll get up to 6 simultaneous connections, so you can use this VPN for online gaming even on the go.

Lastly, NordVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you'll be buying its subscription without any risk. There's also 24/7-available live chat support.

2. Surfshark - Best Gaming VPN If You Prioritize Privacy

Our collection of the best VPN for gaming wouldn't be complete without Surfshark. This is a powerful VPN that's also very simple to use. It works entirely on its own. All you need to do is connect to a server and keep this VPN active in the background, and you'll get to use bot lobbies in any online shooter and optimize your gameplay experience.

Surfshark supports several capable VPN protocols (it recently implemented WireGuard, which usually works great for controlling latency and ping) and promises not to collect your private data. This VPN has been audited many times in the past, so you can rest assured that your sensitive data will never leave your device unprotected.

Surfshark can also unblock any website out there, including some notoriously hard-to-unblock gaming marketplaces. Also, let's not forget to mention that you get unlimited connections with this VPN, so it's clear that it offers plenty for its price.

Surfshark also includes a special "NoBorders" mode, which means it's suited for countries with Internet-related restrictions. Also, it comes with a unique feature called 'Nexus,' which uses multiple servers and rotates your IP every couple of minutes. And speaking of its server network, you'll gain access to 3,200+ servers in around 100 countries.

With all that said, we still haven't mentioned Surfshark's best gaming-related feature, and that would be its speed. This VPN can provide very fast speeds without any optimization, even when using very remote servers. Of course, doing a bit of tinkering with its settings goes a long way, letting you barely notice this VPN running in the background.

Surfshark is also compatible with a huge number of devices. No matter if you game on a PC, Mac, Android, or iOS - Surfshark will be there to support you. This is also the best VPN for console gaming as it works even on routers, making it compatible with PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch consoles.

Like other top-rated VPNs, Surfshark features 24/7-available live chat support. You can also count on its no-questions-asked 30-day money-back policy.

3. ExpressVPN - Best VPN for First-Time Users

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for gaming because it's the most comprehensive VPN out there. It's the only VPN provider that gives you access to bot lobbies in any game, including Call of Duty, Apex Legends, Fortnite, PUBG, and more. Also, it has a wide server network, high-end protocols, strong encryption, and impeccable customer support.

Based on our hands-on tests, this is the fastest VPN for games. On top of that, it offers several ways to minimize your ping and eliminate the latency, regardless of the server you pick. Learn more about that in our guide on how to use ExpressVPN for gaming.

This VPN also has the best VPN servers for gaming - 3,000+ units in 100+ countries, all of which are obfuscated. That means you'll get to unblock geo-restricted games, as well as buy games cheaper by unblocking other countries' marketplaces.

You'll also get polished applications for any device out there (you get 8 simultaneous connections, based on whether you pick its monthly or long-term plans). And if you need the best VPN for console gaming, know that ExpressVPN works on a range of routers.

In terms of protecting your privacy, this is an award-winning VPN service with many years of experience. So, it's safe to say that you'll be covered more than well. But if you need details, know that ExpressVPN is powered by OpenVPN and Lightway protocols, both of which are suitable for gaming and keeping away DDoS attacks.

In the end, we'll mention that ExpressVPN comes with a 30-day money-back policy. You'll also get to count on its 24/7-available live chat customer support. That said, it's obvious why we believe that ExpressVPN is the top VPN for gaming in 2023, and we hope you see that too.

4. CyberGhost VPN - Best VPN for Games with Extensive Servers

CyberGhost VPN is a very good VPN for gaming on a PC because it brings a unique feature - gaming-friendly servers. Those are available on Windows only, ensuring that CyberGhost is a gaming VPN with a lower ping in games than most other options on the market.

This VPN is known for covering the entire planet - having thousands of servers on offer (9,000+ servers in 90+ countries). It comes with reliable performance, keeping your private data out of anyone's hands and guaranteeing complete protection for your data. All those are the reasons why CyberGhost VPN is good for gaming - as well as many other uses.

You can also use it to unblock new digital services, which means you'll get to unblock new gaming marketplaces. In fact, this is one of the best VPNs for digital entertainment, as (aside from giving you gaming-ready servers) it also has dedicated servers for streaming.

Let's not forget that CyberGhost VPN allows you to get an anonymous dedicated IP (associated with the US, UK, Germany, France, and Canada). That's not something many VPNs offer and should help bypass anti-VPN systems as well as access bot lobbies in online shooters.

CyberGhost VPN gives you 7 simultaneous connections, which seems generous enough. It has apps for computers, mobile devices, and streaming devices. And when it comes to game consoles, you can install this VPN on a router. In other words, it supports practically any gaming device out there.

Finally, CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee on its long-term plans, and there's a 15-day money-back policy on its monthly plan. It also features 24/7 live chat support, in addition to written and video tutorials, FAQs, and more.

5. Private Internet Access - Best VPN for Experienced Users

PIA (Private Internet Access) is a long-standing VPN for gaming from the USA, known for high-end features and expanding its set of options quite aggressively. So, if you need a more advanced gaming VPN that gives you access to bot lobbies even in anti-VPN games, Private Internet Access is what you'll want to try.

First and foremost, PIA is for those willing to dive deep into VPN protocols, different types of encryption methods, VPN automation, and more.

It works out of the box just fine, but since it brings a plethora of options and customizations, it really requires you to spend some time working on this VPN. As a result, you'll get the lowest possible ping, making PIA the best VPN for cloud gaming. If you don't tinker with this VPN, you might not get the best speeds, so it's important to check out its settings.

Also, PIA's ultra-tough protocols (led by OpenVPN and WireGuard) can block any DDoS attack. And if you want to take it one step further, you can even get a dedicated IP. PIA offers dedicated IPs that can be associated with the US, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and Japan.

Know that PIA is one of the VPNs with the highest number of servers (in 80+ countries). That comes in handy if you want to unblock gaming marketplaces in specific countries. That said, PIA allows you to play games with minimal ping and latency while getting access to more games, more game-streaming services, and new game marketplaces.

This VPN for online gaming supports unlimited simultaneous connections. On top of that, it brings apps for practically any device, including gaming-friendly devices like computers and phones. If you need the best VPN for console gaming, know that this one supports routers (which means it works with PlayStation and Xbox consoles).

In the end, we'll mention that PIA comes with 30-day money-back guarantees. So, there's no risk involved. That said, we really do think that PIA is the best VPN for gaming when it comes to more advanced users. If you like to tinker with VPNs, this one is an excellent pick - especially since it features extra-helpful 24/7-available live chat support.

6. Ivacy VPN - Best Budget-Friendly Option

First things first, Ivacy covers more than 180 locations in 65+ countries and has 5,700+ servers. There's a big chance you'll find a nearby server providing access to bot lobbies when gaming with this VPN. However, know that Ivacy is somewhat slower than other VPNs found in this guide, so it would really help you have a fast Web connection.

Also, since it's not the fastest option out there, we recommend using Ethernet when connecting to Ivacy's servers. That's the best way to ensure low latency and control your ping, leading to a much more pleasurable gaming experience overall.

Next, Ivacy uses a whole range of VPN protocols (led by OpenVPN and WireGuard) and comes with 256-bit AES encryption. That means your data will be routed through an incredibly secure VPN tunnel, taking away any worries. Of course, a fully-functional kill switch is there as well.

Then, keep in mind that Ivacy comes with native applications for any popular platform. If you play games on your console (Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch), you can install this VPN on your router, which is a huge benefit. You get 10 simultaneous connections, making Ivacy not only the best VPN for online gaming - but also one of the most generous ones.

We'll also note that, like our previous recommendation, Ivacy can give you a dedicated IP - in this case, associated with the UK, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Germany, and Singapore. This gaming VPN treats dedicated IPs as add-ons, but they're quite affordable.

Let's also mention that Ivacy has a 30-day money-back policy for its long-term plans. There's also a comprehensive customer support system, with 24/7-available live chat. Ivacy's agents are typically very responsive and always very eager to help.

7. IPVanish - Best Fully-Automated VPN

IPVanish is a well-known VPN that has been reviewed year after year. Based out of the US, its network of 2,200+ servers spreads over more than 75 locations, giving you plenty of digital freedom. That said, if you are looking for a premium-level gaming experience with access to bot lobbies, top speeds and zero lag, IPVanish has the job cut out for you.

This VPN comes equipped with various protocols, letting you pick from WireGuard (introduced just recently), OpenVPN, IKEv2, and more. You're free to switch between those at any moment, which means that you'll have some influence over your Web connection's speed and its security (useful in terms of DDoS protection during your gaming sessions).

Still, IPVanish is slower than most of the gaming VPNs recommended in this guide, so use it if you have a relatively fast Web connection. By going with an Ethernet connection, you'll also ensure that your ping and latency stay in check.

Still, know that IPVanish comes fully automated, so we recommend it to those not wishing to fine-tune their connection. On top of that, IPVanish brings applications for any popular platform out there, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It also works on routers, so you can use it with game consoles as well.

We'll also mention that IPVanish now supports unmetered VPN connections. That also implies that IPVanish doesn't log your private data. Independent audits were done to prove this VPN's claims, so you can rest assured that your data won't be logged at any point.

IPVanish wouldn't be one of the best VPNs for games if it didn't have a generous money-back policy. So, know that you'll have 30 days to test-drive this VPN. Finally, you'll also get to count on its 24/7-available customer support, handy in case of any questions or doubts.

Comparison: Best Gaming VPNs

How to Choose the Best VPN for Gaming?

If you're feeling confused, you'll need some help to find and pick the best gaming VPN. With that said, you'll want to find one that brings the following:

• Access to Bot Lobbies: Games like Fortnite, CoD Warzone, Apex Legends, and PUBG offer bot lobbies for easier matches. To access those you'll need a VPN with servers in countries where those bot lobbies are most often found.
• Sizeable Server Fleet: If you force your data to travel more, you'll experience slowdowns - unless you find a VPN that implements optimizations for remote connections. In short, find a VPN with a sizeable server fleet, as that comes with numerous benefits.
• Customizable VPN Protocols: When it comes to gaming, you'll want a robust protocol such as WireGuard and OpenVPN, for example.
• Native Software: To get an enjoyable and lag-free gaming session, use native software. That means you need to install your chosen VPN for online gaming and then run it in the background each time you launch any game.
• Reliable & Stable Performance: Remember not to trust any marketing messages out there. Instead, find a VPN with plenty of servers and multiple VPN protocols, which is always a good starting point, performance-wise,
• Extra Features (Split-Tunneling, Kill Switch, Dedicated IP): Split tunneling allows you to create two tunnels for your data. A kill switch will keep you protected if your connection drops. And a dedicated VPN IP helps you bypass even the strongest anti-VPN blocks.
• Sufficient Number of Simultaneous Connections: Most VPNs offer 5-10 simultaneous connections, while some don't impose such limitations. So, think about how many devices you'll need to cover, including your gaming and non-gaming gadgets.
• Generous Money-Back Policy: Pick a VPN that gives you at least 30 days to ask for a refund if you change your mind. Some VPNs can give you up to 45 days.
• Reliable Customer Support: When technical issues appear, you'll be happy to have a VPN that offers 24/7 live chat support, which is always the fastest way to resolve any problems.

Why Do You Need a VPN for Gaming?

You need the best VPN for gaming if you want to enhance your Web connection, protect your sensitive information, and hide your IP address, among other things. Here's more info:

• Minimize Ping & Reduce Lag: A VPN re-routes your traffic, which is how it lowers your ping and improves latency. As a result, you'll get a more responsive game overall.
• Access Bot Lobbies: To access bot lobbies, you'll need a VPN that gives you access to special services with bots, letting you improve your stats quickly.
• Secure Any Web Connection: Since VPNs encrypt your data, they come as a solution to securing any connection type. So, if you connect to public Wi-Fi networks or play games on the go, a VPN will come in handy.
• Bypass ISP Throttling: Your ISP imposes certain limitations on your connection in relation to bandwidth-hungry activities like gaming and streaming. A VPN helps bypass ISP throttling, giving you better speeds and lower ping.
• Unblock New Games: If some games are blocked in your county or region, a VPN will help you unblock that content by making it look like you're in some other country.
• Get Around Overcrowded Servers: If you're experiencing performance issues, know that a VPN can re-route your traffic, connecting you to a less crowded game server.
• Avoid Price Discrimination: If games or add-ons are too expensive in your region, a VPN will help you change your virtual location and buy games for cheap.
• Protection Against Hackers & DDoS Attacks: Since VPNs hide your IP address (you can even hide your VPN IP address), you'll make it harder for malicious individuals to reach your device. That means that you can forget about DDoS attacks.
• Get Cosmetics & Add-Ons for Free: Many games offer region-based cosmetics and add-ons, which you can redeem by changing your IP address using a VPN.

A reliable gaming-friendly VPN helps you elevate your gaming sessions to a new level. To learn what to expect and whether you need a VPN for gaming, use the provided link.

Is It Legal to Use a VPN for Gaming?

Yes, it's legal to use a VPN for gaming. However, know that some games might ban VPNs as a precautionary measure.

In terms of their legality, VPNs are 100% on the safe side. They protect your right to privacy, so you can feel free to pick any VPN service out there. Still, know that there's a very small group of countries where VPNs are illegal, and those are primarily countries with authoritarian regimes. So, be aware of your country's laws.

Then, also know that some online games (MMORPGs mostly) may prohibit the use of VPNs, as per their Terms of Use and other legal documents. Since VPNs can give you a competitive edge, they could be considered a way of cheating. In that case, you'll see a message that you need to turn off your VPN to continue.

What's the Best VPN Location for Gaming?

The best VPN location for gaming depends on what your ultimate goal is. For example, if you want DDoS protection or to bypass ISP throttling, pick any nearby server to minimize ping.

If you want to bypass certain geo-restrictions (like getting into bot lobbies or unlocking skins only available in particular regions), connect to a server where you want to appear to be located. This is different for each game, so let's give you some examples of the best VPN country to connect for gaming:

In general, the closer the server you connect to, the better the connection speeds you’ll enjoy. Another factor that can impact your gaming experience is the location of the game server you want to play on.

In other words, the best server to choose while using a VPN for gaming to get the best IP address for gaming will be as close as possible to both your location and the location of the game’s server itself. 

Does VPN Reduce Ping in Games?

Yes, a gaming VPN can reduce ping - which is crucial when playing action-packed online games. Still, to reduce ping in games, you must pick a VPN server carefully.

VPNs allow you to connect to servers from all around the world. So, if you connect to an overly remote server, that can increase your ping and latency. With that said, you should always go for the nearest server you can find (based on your physical location).

Also, you can find a VPN for online gaming with specialized servers, like CyberGhost VPN. Those are optimized for speed and performance, so you should prioritize those over standard servers.

To learn more, check our guide that explains how VPNs reduce ping in games, giving you valuable tips on interacting with your VPN during gaming sessions.

Is a VPN Good for Gaming?

Yes, a VPN can be quite good for gaming - based on your goals. If you want to secure your Web connection and minimize latency, the best VPN for games can be your most powerful ally.

With that said, know that you shouldn't use just about any VPN. Very few of them are useful for gaming, as they don't come with optimized servers. So, if you're not careful (or picky) enough, you could end up with a VPN that makes your gaming session less enjoyable.

As mentioned earlier, go for a VPN with plenty of servers and protocols. Also, we recommend using a VPN that lets you fine-tune its settings and parameters, letting you achieve low ping in games values while encrypting your Web traffic.

What Is the Fastest VPN for Gaming?

The fastest VPN for gaming right now is NordVPN. According to the tests we’ve conducted, NordVPN provides the best speeds on the market. It will only slow down your Web connection on average, making it ideal for high-quality gaming with low ping and no lags.

Furthermore, when you connect to longer-distance servers with NordVPN, you get much better performance and speed compared to other VPNs. So, it won’t matter if you want to play on servers in countries thousands of miles away - you’ll still enjoy a great gaming experience. 

A suitable gaming VPN will reduce ping in games and offer a much better connection than your ISP alone can provide because your traffic won’t experience any network congestion. That said, using NordVPN for gaming is our #1 recommendation.

Can You Use a Free VPN for Gaming?

No, you can't use a free VPN for gaming because they aren't suitable for any bandwidth-intensive activities, and that's exactly what online gaming requires.

There's a small group of free VPN services that bring unlimited bandwidth. However, even the best free gaming VPN will limit your access to their servers, which are typically overcrowded. That translates to severe speed, latency, and ping limitations. That's why we recommend free gaming VPNs only to those who need them for quick gameplay sessions.

If you insist on trying a free VPN for games, we can help (but keep in mind our advice from just above). With that said, here's the best free VPN for gaming.

Final Thoughts

Finding the VPN for gaming isn't an easy task because we're talking about connections where ping and latency should be kept minimal. However, as this guide showed you, there are some great for gaming with a VPN that can also help you access bot lobbies, protect your privacy, unlock new games and add-ons, and plenty more.

That said - if you want the best VPN for gaming, your pick should be NordVPN. You'll get extra-fast performance, a whole slate of protocols, solid encryption that deters DDoS attacks, and the ability to unlock new games and gaming marketplaces - in a single package.

That would be all on the best VPN for gaming. If you have any questions or doubts, let us know via the comments section below. Lastly, thanks for reading!