5 Best VPNs for GTA 5 Online in 2024

GTA 5 Online is an open-world action game enjoyed by 120,000+ players each day. However, with such a large player base, you might experience high ping and unstable latency due to crowded servers. Other common issues GTA V users encounter are doxxing and DDoS attacks. Furthermore, the game is geo-restricted in certain countries (Thailand, Australia, and Saudi Arabia).

Don't worry, though! There's an easy way to tackle all these challenges - by using a GTA 5 VPN. A VPN helps stabilize latency and lower ping, and you’ll also benefit from advanced encryption, protecting you from DDoS attacks or doxxing. Additionally, a VPN can bypass geo-blocks, help you evade IP bans, and even allow you to bypass ISP-induced throttling.

In this guide, we'll share the 5 best VPNs for GTA 5 Online and walk you through how to unblock and play the game with a VPN. We'll also explain why using a VPN for GTA V is essential, explain how to choose the best one, delve into crossplay options, help you troubleshoot GTA 5 crash problems, and more.

Best GTA 5 VPNs - Our Shortlist

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for GTA 5 Online in 2024
2. Surfshark – User-Friendly GTA 5 VPN with Lots of Server Locations
3. ExpressVPN – Highly Secure VPN to Play GTA 5 Privately
4. CyberGhost VPN – Gaming-Friendly VPN with Specialized Servers
5. Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN for Hardcore Gamers

How to Unblock and Play GTA 5 Online With a VPN

To unblock and play GTA 5 Online with a VPN, you should first find a compatible VPN that supports GTA V and sign up for a subscription. You can follow these straightforward steps, as they'll guide you through the process:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that unblocks GTA 5 (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN app on your device.
3. Open the VPN and log in with your credentials.
4. Connect to a VPN server located close to the GTA server.
5. Download GTA 5 Online and install it on your gaming platform.
6. That’s it! Now you can play GTA V Online without any restrictions!

GTA 5 offers game servers across multiple regions, including the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan, and Australia. When it comes to the best VPN location for GTA 5 Online, it is recommended that you connect to a VPN server near your desired game server. And if the game is blocked in your country, connect to a VPN server in a region where GTA 5 is widely available.

The Best VPNs for GTA 5 Online in 2024

To assist you in finding the best option available, we'll follow the criteria outlined in our best gaming VPN guide. Selecting a VPN provider with a broad server network covering the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan, Asia, and Australia is essential, first and foremost. This ensures you can unblock GTA 5 and join GTA servers without restrictions.

The VPN you choose should be able to facilitate low ping and stable latency. Additionally, it's important for your provider to be fast and reliable. Regarding security, search for features like a kill switch, gaming-friendly VPN protocols, and robust AES-256 encryption.

Make sure the VPN supports multiple simultaneous connections and functions seamlessly with all GTA V Online platforms. Finally, look for a VPN with a good price, plenty of value, an iron-clad money-back guarantee policy, and 24/7 live chat support. 

Based on the criteria above, here are the 5 best VPNs to unblock GTA 5 Online from anywhere:

1. NordVPN – Our #1-Rated Best VPN for GTA 5 Online in 2024

NordVPN is the best VPN for GTA Online, featuring over 6,300 servers across 110+ countries, with coverage in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The wide range of servers provides you with ample IP addresses to choose from to help get GTA 5 unblocked in countries like Saudi Arabia and Argentina.

This extensive server network also helps you resolve any ping and latency issues by connecting to VPN servers near GTA servers. NordVPN offers ultra-fast connections and reliable performance for a seamless experience, as it's one of the fastest VPNs currently available.

Even so, you’ll be able to enjoy all forms of gameplay, including GTA 5 private lobbies, in which you can play with friends located anywhere in the world in invite-only sessions. One standout feature of NordVPN is its Meshnet functionality, which allows you to create and host virtual LAN parties. This could come in handy for playing in private lobbies.

There are multiple VPN protocols to choose from, including NordLynx, NordVPN's proprietary option that combines advanced security and optimized performance. It also offers top-notch protection with AES-256-bit encryption keys. Plus, it has a kill switch to protect users' privacy and security in case their VPN connection drops temporarily.

NordVPN works seamlessly with the most popular GTA 5 platforms and devices, such as PlayStation, PCs, and Xbox. You can install it on routers to encrypt your entire WiFi network, too. NordVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections, allowing you to protect multiple devices at once. 

You can get started with this VPN for $3.09/month (2-year plan), and keep in mind that NordVPN promises a money-back guarantee within 30 days on all its packages. Lastly, you can also access 24/7 live chat support whenever you need assistance.

2. Surfshark – User-Friendly GTA 5 VPN with Lots of Servers

Surfshark offers a wide server network covering 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries, including US, Canadian, European, Asian, and Australian locations. Its Camouflage mode allows you to unblock GTA V Online in countries like Saudi Arabia and Argentina. This extensive coverage guarantees consistent and reliable performance.

This VPN's fast connection speeds and extensive server coverage minimize ping and stabilize latency, so you won’t find GTA 5 gameplay laggy. Its Nexus technology rotates IPs and improves speed by using Software Defined Networking (SDN) to connect all its VPN servers into a single, global network. 

Regarding security, Surfshark offers an impressive array of features. This GTA Online VPN supports multiple protocols (including WireGuard, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN) and employs military-grade AES-256 encryption. It also has a kill switch that disconnects your device from the Internet if it loses its secure VPN connection.

Setting up Surfshark is a breeze with its unlimited simultaneous connections policy. This VPN covers various devices, like Xbox, PlayStation, and PCs. All these features make Surfshark ideal for sharing with your friends and gaming buddies in GTA 5 private lobbies.

You can spend as little as $2.29/month (2-year plan) on this VPN, and it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring you can test it risk-free and receive a refund if you’re unsatisfied. Lastly, Surfshark has got your back with its 24/7 live chat customer support, ensuring you get quick assistance for any questions or concerns.

3. ExpressVPN – Highly Secure VPN to Play GTA 5 Privately

ExpressVPN boasts a vast network of thousands of servers across 105 countries, including locations where GTA game servers are available, such as the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Aside from that, this VPN can unblock GTA 5 in countries like Saudi Arabia and Argentina.

This extensive network ensures you can connect to nearby GTA servers, minimizing ping and providing stable latency for smooth gameplay. One of the standout features of ExpressVPN is its remarkable speed, as it's among the fastest-performing VPNs on the global market. Moreover, its ease of use and dependable performance make it an excellent choice.

ExpressVPN offers AES-256-bit encryption to protect you from DDoS attacks and doxxing. You have the option to manually select from a variety of tunneling protocols, including Lightway, IKEv2/IPsec, and OpenVPN. It also has a strong kill switch (Network Lock). These security features will let you play without receiving an IP ban if you join a modded lobby in GTA 5.

Regarding compatibility, ExpressVPN supports various devices, including PCs, PlayStation and Xbox consoles, as well as routers. Its router support makes it convenient to route your gaming console’s traffic through the VPN. Plus, it allows up to 8 simultaneous connections, so you can protect multiple devices playing GTA V Online at the same time. 

Furthermore, ExpressVPN is priced at $6.67/month and offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Finally, their customer support is available 24/7 through live chat, ensuring you receive prompt assistance whenever needed.

4. CyberGhost VPN – Gaming-Friendly VPN with Specialized Servers

CyberGhost VPN has an immense network of thousands of servers spread across 100+ countries, including locations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia. With this VPN, you can easily unblock GTA V from anywhere—even in countries like Saudi Arabia and Argentina. 

This vast server fleet ensures you can minimize ping and latency, thereby reducing GTA lag. Moreover, CyberGhost delivers reliable performance and sufficient speed. This will allow you to join a GTA 5 lobby to play privately with your friends. One mention-worthy benefit of this VPN is its option to use gaming-optimized servers on Windows. 

CyberGhost offers three protocols for gaming: OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec. You’ll also get AES-256 encryption, which provides robust protection for your online activities. Thanks to its handy kill switch feature, your sensitive data will remain private and secure even if your VPN connection drops. If you’re banned by GTA servers, IP masking with a VPN is essential.

With CyberGhost, you can enjoy GTA 5 Online on multiple gaming devices, as it supports 7 simultaneous connections. This flexibility allows you to protect yourself while playing the game on various platforms like PCs, Xbox, and PlayStation. Simply set the GTA VPN up on your router to provide the widest coverage.

The lowest you can pay for this VPN is $2.03/month (2-year plan). CyberGhost provides a generous 45-day money-back guarantee for subscriptions longer than one month and a 14-day money-back guarantee for its monthly subscriptions. Finally, you can contact their 24/7 live chat support if you need assistance.

5. Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN for Hardcore Gamers

Private Internet Access VPN (PIA) has a robust network with thousands of servers in 90+ countries—including coverage in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia. This provides a wide range of options with which to bypass GTA 5 ban annoyances in countries like Saudi Arabia and Argentina.

PIA’s vast infrastructure allows players to connect to servers in regions with GTA 5 servers. This helps reduce latency and minimize ping, and connecting to the nearest servers helps to fix GTA 5 lag spikes. Its overall performance is generally reliable and consistent. That said, it’s definitely not as fast as the other GTA VPN providers on the list.

This VPN is incredibly secure, employing many features to ensure privacy and safety. It uses military-grade AES-256 encryption to protect users' activities and offers a range of VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec. PIA also has a built-in kill switch that shields users from possible data leaks.

PIA works seamlessly with different platforms. You can play GTA 5 on PS5, PS4, PCs, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X. If you're using consoles, you can easily connect them to a PIA server with Smart DNS. It's even compatible with routers, giving you more flexibility. Better yet, PIA lets you have unlimited simultaneous connections.

PIA's 2-year plan starts at $2.03/month and a 30-day money-back guarantee is available in case you don’t like PIA or find it too difficult to configure. But if you have any questions or concerns, their live chat support is available 24/7, so you can always count on getting the help you need.

Why Do You Need a VPN for Playing GTA 5 Online?

You need a VPN for playing GTA 5 Online because it helps minimize ping and reduce lag while protecting your privacy. Here are more reasons why you should use a GTA V VPN:

• Lower Ping and Eliminate Lagging – A VPN can optimize your connection by routing your game traffic through a more efficient server closer to your desired GTA server, resulting in lower ping and reduced lag. 
• Bypass IP-Based Bans – If you are unable to play GTA 5 Online due to an IP ban, a VPN can help. Connecting to a VPN server allows you to obtain a different IP address, hide your original IP, and get unbanned from GTA 5.
• Access GTA from Restricted Regions – Some regions may entirely restrict or limit access to the game. You can bypass these restrictions by using a VPN and connecting to a GTA V game server from anywhere in the world.
• Avoid Overcrowded Servers – The game sometimes has overcrowded servers due to thousands of gamers connecting simultaneously, leading to GTA 5 lagging and a poor gaming experience. With a VPN, you can connect to less crowded servers.
• Get Weapons and Skins for Free - By changing your virtual location using a VPN, you can obtain weapons and skins available in certain regions only. These are typically time-limited offers with cosmetics that remain tied to your GTA 5 Online account for good.
• Access Early Releases and Betas - GTA 5 is a game under continuous development, with new features being rolled out gradually. By picking a VPN server that is ahead of your time zone, you can get new features among the first in the world.
• Eliminate Price Discrimination – In some cases, game prices may vary based on your location. By using a VPN, you can change your virtual location and potentially access better pricing options.
• Hide Your IP Address – With a VPN, your real IP address is hidden, making it difficult for others to track your online activities. This feature is great for evading DDoS attacks.
• Connect to Public WiFi Safely – Your data can be vulnerable to interception when playing games on public WiFi networks. With a VPN, your personal information and gaming activities will remain secure.
• Overcome Bandwidth Throttling – Some ISPs throttle bandwidth when they detect high data usage. This slows down certain types of Internet traffic, including gaming. By using a VPN for GTA Online, your ISP will not be able to see your activities.

How to Choose the Best VPN for GTA 5?

To choose and pick the best VPN for GTA 5 Online, find one with a wide network, fast performance, capable privacy features, and native software across the board. Here's more information:

• Access to a Wide Server Network - Whether you wish to unblock GTA V or reach new types of players, you'll want a VPN with servers distributed evenly across the world.
• Gaming-Friendly Speeds and Performance - You need the lowest ping possible to avoid latency issues when playing GTA 5, so pick a VPN known for its stable performance.
• Privacy-Protecting Kill Switch - A kill switch will shut down your Web connection if you lose VPN connectivity, which helps you prevent IP-based bans in GTA 5.
• Robust VPN Protocols and Encryption - Go for a VPN with OpenVPN or WireGuard, which should be paired with AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption ciphers.
• Native Software Across the Board - Your chosen VPN should come with native software for all your gaming devices and should work on routers (which will cover your PS and Xbox).
• Plenty of Simultaneous Connections - Ensure you get a sufficient number of simultaneous connections, which will help cover your entire home without leaving any vulnerabilities.
• Fair Price and Plenty of Value - A high-end VPN doesn't have to cost a lot, especially if you invest in a long-term subscription. You'll want plenty of value for your money.
• Generous Money-Back Policy - Today's reputable VPNs offer up to 30 days to test their features. So, you can ask for your money back if you change your mind.
• 24/7 Customer Service - Ensure that your chosen VPN offers 24/7 live chat support, which you'll be happy to have if you experience any technical issues.

Is GTA 5 Cross-Platform? 

No, GTA 5 is not cross-platform. Players on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC can't crossplay with one another. They can only enjoy cross-console play - as long as they’re not using the new enhanced version of GTA 5 Online. 

Specifically, gamers who use PS4 can play against PS4 users, and the same applies to those who own PS5. Similarly, GTA 5 works among those who play on Xbox One, as well as those on the latest Xbox Series X. When it comes to PCs, crossplay is available across the board, no matter if you purchased your copy from the Epic Game Store, Steam, or elsewhere.

Why Does GTA 5 Keep Crashing?

GTA 5 keeps crashing for numerous possible reasons, including corrupted game files or an outdated graphics driver. These are some other potential explanations for why GTA 5 is crashing:

• Outdated Graphics Driver – A common reason why GTA 5 is crashing on startup is an outdated graphics driver. Updating the driver to the latest version can help resolve this GTA 5 crash issue.
• Small Paging File Size – If the paging file size set is too small, it can lead to crashing. Try increasing the paging file size to see if it fixes the problem.
• Corrupted Game Files – GTA 5 crashes could be due to faulty or missing files like Visual C++ redistributable packages. Verify the integrity of the game files through the GTA V app to identify and fix any corrupted or absent files. You can also manually download and install the appropriate Visual C++ redist packages.
• Network Connectivity Issues - Ensure that there are no underlying connectivity issues. You can try browsing the Web to see if everything works properly, and contact your Internet provider if you encounter any issues. You can also restart your router.
• Overcrowded Servers - GTA 5 is a hugely popular game, so it's not surprising to encounter overcrowded servers with problematic latency. A VPN can help you with this, as it changes your virtual location, prompting GTA 5 to connect you to a different server.
• Lack of Administrator Permission – Running without administrator privileges can sometimes lead to a GTA 5 crash due to permission issues. 
• Overly Demanding Game Settings – Your GTA 5 graphics settings (like texture, shader, shadow, reflection, and grass quality) might be set too high. Lower them to see if the crashing stops.
• Interference from Other Apps – GTA 5 crashing on startup can be caused by apps like antivirus running in the background. Be sure to close all unnecessary apps before launching the game.
• Inadequate Hardware – If your device does not meet the minimum system requirements, like a powerful Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), it may struggle to run GTA V smoothly. Try lowering the graphics settings to reduce hardware-related crashes.

Is There a Free VPN for GTA 5?

Yes, there is a free VPN to play GTA 5 Online, but we don't recommend it. While free VPNs can be enticing, they come with numerous limitations that can ruin your gameplay experience. For example, they have limited bandwidth and slow speeds, so you can only use them for a limited time and only if you're not far away from their servers.

Free VPNs also come with low-end protocols, which is why most of them leak your data. What's even more worrying is that they can bundle malware and cause damage to your system. Aside from that, free VPNs don't really respect your privacy, and most of them log your sensitive information.

A better option is to get a free VPN trial, which is a risk-free way to enjoy premium-level VPN features for a limited time. For example, NordVPN's free trial lasts 7 days, and you can activate it on Android. This VPN also has a solid 30-day money-back policy that applies to all its supported platforms.

After you go through a couple of trials, you can consult our guide to the best VPN providers. You'll see that nothing can replace a trustworthy and long-standing commercial VPN.

Final Thoughts

As a GTA 5 Online gamer, you are one of many players who face issues such as lagging, doxxing, and DDoS attacks, and difficulty accessing the game in countries that have banned it. Furthermore, many players can't match with others outside their region. Also, there's the issue of ISP-induced throttling and GTA's aggressive IP bans. Fortunately, using a GTA VPN can easily solve all these challenges. 

We recommend NordVPN as the best VPN for GTA 5 Online because it has a vast selection of servers to unblock GTA 5 while lowering ping and latency. It also has the ability to connect players to game servers anywhere, so you can match with gamers in other countries. With NordVPN, you'll experience seamless, secure GTA 5 gameplay no matter where you are.

That's all for our guide on the best GTA 5 VPN providers. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!