In the ever-evolving world of gaming, choosing the best VPN can elevate your gaming experience to unprecedented heights. Speed, global reach, security, compatibility, and reliable support are the cornerstones of a VPN fit for gamers. Remember: the best VPN is the one that aligns with your gaming needs, empowering you to unlock new horizons, transcend boundaries, and conquer virtual realms with unrivaled precision.
5 Key Takeaways
- NordVPN offers robust security features and exceptional speed, making it a top choice for gamers.
- Surfshark provides unlimited device connections and great performance at an affordable price.
- Private Internet Access VPN is known for its strong privacy policies and extensive server network.
- ExpressVPN is celebrated for its high-speed servers and reliable customer support.
- CyberGhost offers user-friendly apps and a vast network of servers, ideal for gaming.
1. NordVPN
Super-fast speeds and built-in security
NordVPN offers super-fast speeds and robust built-in security features, making it reddit best VPN 2024. With over 5,400 servers in 80 locations, it ensures a reliable and fast connection.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
| Speed | >950 Mbps |
| Servers | 5,400+ |
| Locations | 80 |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Router support | Yes |
| Simultaneous connections | 6 |
| 24/7 customer support | Yes |
| Streaming services unblocked | Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Hulu |
Pricing
- NordVPN 2 Year: $3.09/month
- NordVPN 1 Year: $4.59/month
- NordVPN 1 Month: $12.99/month
Key Features
- Incredible NordLynx speeds
- Privacy-focused experience
- Good support
- Very reliable connections
NordVPN’s extensive server network is optimized for gaming and streaming, providing excellent performance and reliable connection speeds.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extensive server network optimized for gaming and streaming
- Strong focus on security with advanced encryption and features
- Excellent performance and reliable connection speeds
Cons:
- Limited to 6 connections
- A complex interface
- Not so great for torrenting
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is known for being the best VPN for the budget-conscious gamer. With pricing starting from $2.49 per month, it offers incredible value without compromising on quality.
Key Features
- Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited
- Servers: 3,000+
- Countries: 100
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV
Pros
- Servers in two dozen US cities
- Smart DNS for use with game consoles
- User-friendly apps and an intuitive interface
- Solid performance with speeds over 950 Mbps using WireGuard
Cons
- Makes canceling difficult
- Minor kill switch issues under extreme stress testing
- Fewer physical servers than some competitors
Pricing Plans
| Plan Duration | Monthly Cost |
| 24 Months | $2.19 |
| 12 Months | $2.79 |
| 1 Month | $10.99 |
Surfshark is a brilliant choice for gamers who need a budget-friendly VPN without sacrificing performance. Its unlimited connections and impressive speeds make it a top contender.
3. Private Internet Access VPN
Key Features
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a feature-packed gaming VPN that lives up to its name. It offers a streamlined and straightforward mobile app with no unnecessary animations or effects. The app includes an advanced split-tunneling feature, allowing users to exclude specific applications from the VPN connection.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
| Speed | 360 Mbps |
| Servers | 10,000+ |
| Locations | ~100 |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Router support | Yes |
| Simultaneous connections | Unlimited |
| 24/7 customer support | Yes |
| Streaming services unblocked | Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Hulu |
Pricing
- 24 Month Plan: $2.03/month (with 4 months free)
- 1 Month Plan: $11.99/month
PIA’s extensive server network and high-speed connections make it an excellent choice for gamers looking for a reliable and efficient VPN service.
4. ExpressVPN
Key Features
- Speed: 750 Mbps
- Servers: 3,000+
- Locations: 160
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android
- Router support: Yes
- Simultaneous connections: 8
- 24/7 customer support: Yes
- Streaming services unblocked: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Hulu
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Provides very good speeds
- Custom firmware for routers
- Strong commitment to privacy and transparency
- Excellent for streaming
- Streamlined, easy-to-use app across platforms
- Privacy-friendly jurisdiction (British Virgin Islands)
Cons:
- No anonymous payment options
Usability
In addition to its VPN apps for PCs and smartphones, ExpressVPN offers something unique: Aircove. Aircove is a Wi-Fi 6 router that ensures all your devices, including consoles, are secure. Choosing ExpressVPN provides you with access to a network of over 3,000 servers covering 105 countries. This helps you access more games, particularly if you live in a country with strict internet censorship.
ExpressVPN stands out from most VPNs with its custom firmware for quick and easy setup with routers, ensuring all devices are secure, including your console. This VPN doesn’t keep activity logs, uses the highest level of encryption, and has far better support than most VPNs.
Pricing
- Starting from: $6.67 per month
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days
5. CyberGhost
Key Features
- Speed: 630 Mbps
- Servers: 9,200+
- Locations: ~116
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android
- Router support: Limited
- Simultaneous connections: 7
- 24/7 customer support: Yes
- Streaming services unblocked: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Hulu
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Vast server network
- Gaming-optimized servers
Cons:
- Parent company has a poor reputation
Usability
CyberGhost’s apps for mobile phones and desktops are some of the easiest and most straightforward to use. They are perfect for beginners and anyone wanting a simple experience.
Security and Privacy
When connected to CyberGhost, you’re protected from hackers and DDoS attacks thanks to its use of 256-bit AES or ChaCha20 encryption, depending on the protocol you use. Its apps prevent DNS leaks and a kill switch is available for desktop and mobile. CyberGhost doesn’t log data that can be tied to your identity either.
CyberGhost is a robust and reliable VPN service with a third-party audit from Deloitte, ensuring top-notch security and privacy for its users.
Performance
Decent speeds that are great for torrenting, streaming, and gaming online. However, it struggled to unblock Disney Plus.
Pricing
Starting from $2.03 per month with support for up to 7 simultaneous connections.
6. Hotspot Shield
Speed and Performance
Hotspot Shield offers impressive speeds, making it a solid choice for gamers who need a reliable connection. With speeds up to 650 Mbps, it ensures minimal lag and smooth gameplay.
Server Network
Hotspot Shield boasts a vast network of servers, with over 3,200 servers in more than 80 countries. This extensive network helps in reducing latency and provides a stable connection.
Compatibility
Hotspot Shield is compatible with multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. It also supports limited router configurations, which can be beneficial for gamers who want to secure their entire home network.
Simultaneous Connections
You can connect up to 5 devices simultaneously with Hotspot Shield, allowing you to protect multiple devices at once.
Customer Support
Hotspot Shield offers 24/7 customer support to assist with any issues or queries you may have.
Streaming Services
Hotspot Shield is capable of unblocking popular streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, making it a versatile option for both gaming and entertainment.
Hotspot Shield combines speed, a vast server network, and excellent compatibility, making it a strong contender for gamers looking for a reliable VPN.
7. IPVanish
Key Features
IPVanish is a reliable VPN for gaming that offers fast connection speeds, an adequate server fleet, useful security features, and user-friendly apps. You can game anonymously as IPVanish uses 256-bit AES encryption and operates a zero-logs policy. Both the desktop and mobile apps feature a kill switch, and the Threat Protection feature blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites.
Performance
IPVanish’s speed loss is significantly higher than ExpressVPN and NordVPN, making it a tough sell for video gamers who demand low lag. However, it still provides a decent gaming experience for most users.
Server Network
- Servers: 2,400+
- Countries: 50
Pricing
| Plan | Price |
| Monthly | $2.75 |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- View server ping and load
- Threat protection
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
Cons:
- Not the best support
- Number of servers on the lower side
IPVanish’s apps are uncomplicated, working equally well for beginners and seasoned tech enthusiasts alike.
8. VyprVPN
Speed and Performance
VyprVPN offers impressive speeds, making it a solid choice for gamers who need a reliable connection. Its proprietary Chameleon protocol helps bypass restrictive networks and throttling.
Server Network
VyprVPN boasts a network of over 700 servers in 70+ locations worldwide. This extensive network ensures that you can always find a server close to your gaming server for minimal latency.
Security Features
VyprVPN provides robust security features, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. These features ensure that your gaming sessions are secure and private.
Compatibility
VyprVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and routers. This makes it easy to protect all your gaming devices with a single subscription.
Pricing
VyprVPN offers competitive pricing with various plans to suit different needs. Here is a quick overview:
| Plan | Duration | Price |
| Basic | Monthly | $12.95 |
| Basic | Yearly | $45.00 |
| Premium | Monthly | $17.95 |
| Premium | Yearly | $60.00 |
VyprVPN’s combination of speed, security, and compatibility makes it a top choice for gamers looking for a reliable VPN service.
9. ProtonVPN
Pricing
ProtonVPN offers several pricing tiers to suit different needs:
| Plan | Price |
| 12 months | $3.99/mth |
| 24 months | $4.49/mth |
| 1 month | $9.99/mth |
Speed and Performance
ProtonVPN is fast on both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, making it a great choice for gamers who need low latency and high-speed connections.
Privacy and Security
ProtonVPN excels in privacy and security. It has a true no-logs policy and offers features like multi-hop connections, split tunneling, and access to the Tor network. The company is based in Switzerland, known for its strong privacy laws.
Server Locations
ProtonVPN has over 4,800 servers in more than 90 countries, providing excellent global coverage.
Additional Features
- Access to Proton suite of tools including email, calendar, and cloud storage.
- Well-designed apps for all platforms.
- Great for streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.
ProtonVPN is an excellent option for security-conscious gamers, offering a high-performing free tier and robust paid options.
10. TunnelBear
Overview
TunnelBear is one of the best VPN for free that is particularly appealing to those new to VPNs. It offers a simple interface and a whimsical design, making it less intimidating for beginners.
Speed and Performance
TunnelBear provides decent speeds for gaming, although it may not be the fastest option available. In our tests, TunnelBear showed a 21% speed loss, which is acceptable for casual gaming but might be a concern for competitive gamers.
Security Features
TunnelBear offers robust security features, including AES 256-bit encryption and a strict no-logs policy. It also includes VigilantBear, a kill switch feature that ensures your data remains protected if the VPN connection drops.
Server Network
TunnelBear has a network of over 4,800 servers in 91 countries, providing ample options for finding a fast and reliable connection.
Pricing
TunnelBear offers a free plan with limited data, making it a good option for those who want to try out the service before committing. Paid plans are priced at $10 per month, $60 per year, or $108 for two years.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Strong security features
- Free plan available
Cons:
- No 24/7 live chat support
- Split tunneling only available on Android and Windows
TunnelBear is a solid choice for casual gamers and those new to VPNs, offering a good balance of usability and security.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving world of gaming, choosing the best VPN can elevate your gaming experience to unprecedented heights. Speed, global reach, security, compatibility, and reliable support are the cornerstones of a VPN fit for gamers. Remember: the best VPN is the one that aligns with your gaming needs, empowering you to unlock new horizons, transcend boundaries, and conquer virtual realms with unrivaled precision. We can show you which services are worth considering, but only you will know which one is best for you. Stay connected, secure, and always ready to embark on new gaming adventures with one of our best VPNs by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a VPN for gaming?
A VPN can help you reduce lag, protect against DDoS attacks, and access geo-restricted games or content. It also enhances your online privacy and security.
How do I choose the best VPN for gaming?
When choosing a VPN for gaming, consider factors such as speed, global reach, security, compatibility with your devices, and reliable customer support.
Can using a VPN improve my gaming performance?
Yes, a VPN can potentially improve your gaming performance by providing a more stable connection and reducing lag, especially if you connect to a server closer to the game server.
Are there free VPNs suitable for gaming?
While there are free VPNs available, they often come with limitations such as slower speeds, data caps, and fewer server options. For the best gaming experience, a paid VPN is usually recommended.
Can I get banned for using a VPN while gaming?
Most gaming platforms do not ban users for using a VPN, but it’s always a good idea to check the terms of service of the specific game or platform you are using.
Is it difficult to set up a VPN for gaming?
Setting up a VPN for gaming is generally straightforward. Most VPN providers offer user-friendly apps and guides to help you get started quickly and easily.