If you’re a gamer, you already know how frustrating lag, high ping, or sudden disconnects can be. Whether you’re playing fast-paced shooters, big open-world games, or just teaming up with friends online, a smooth connection makes all the difference. That’s where a VPN can help — not just for privacy, but to make your gaming experience better.
In 2025, the best VPN for gaming do way more than hide your IP. They protect you from DDoS attacks, help you get around server blocks, and can even reduce lag by connecting you to faster routes. Some can also stop your internet provider from slowing you down while you play.
This guide breaks down the best VPNs for gaming in 2025, based on real tests, speed, security, and features that matter to gamers. No confusing tech talk — just clear, useful info to help you pick the right VPN, whether you play on a console, PC, or mobile.
⚡ Quick Overview: Best VPN for Gaming in 2025
Best Overall Gaming VPN
NordVPN
Key Benefit: NordLynx + 5,500+ servers
Starting Price: $3.09/month
Best For Console Gaming
ExpressVPN
Key Benefit: Lightway + router support
Starting Price: $6.67/month
Best for Budget & Shared Devices
Surfshark
Key Benefit: Unlimited connections + fast WireGuard
Starting Price: $2.29/month
Top VPN for Gaming in 2025
After testing and comparing top services, we’ve identified the five best VPNs for gaming in 2025. These selections offer an ideal mix of speed, security, and overall value, making them reliable choices for gamers across different platforms. Whether you’re playing on a high-end gaming PC, a next-gen console like the PS5 or Xbox Series X, or a mobile device, these VPNs deliver smooth performance with minimal lag. They also include essential gaming features like DDoS protection, low-latency servers, and modern encryption protocols to ensure a seamless and secure experience even during peak gaming hours.
NordVPN: Best Overall for Gamers
NordVPN remains one of the strongest choices for serious gamers in 2025 thanks to its blazing-fast speeds, strong security features, and massive server network. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol, built on WireGuard, consistently delivered low ping and smooth performance during our competitive tests — even in fast-paced titles like Call of Duty and Apex Legends. It also includes built-in DDoS protection, a kill switch, and specialty servers that help avoid throttling or congestion. With support for up to 6 devices and seamless compatibility across PC, mobile, and routers, NordVPN is especially reliable for gamers who prioritize both performance and privacy without any compromise.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-speed connections with low ping | Slightly higher price point |
| Strong security and privacy features | Interface may be complex for beginners |
| Wide server network |
Pricing and subscription plans
Monthly: $12.99
1-Year Plan: $4.99/month
2-Year Plan: $3.09/month – Best Value!
🔵 Best Deal: Get 2 years of NordVPN for just $3.09/month
Includes: 10 device connections, NordLynx, and DDoS protection
Try it now risk-free with 30-day money back guarantee.
Want a deeper dive? Check out our full NordVPN review for in-depth performance tests, security insights, and setup tips .
ExpressVPN: Top Pick for Console Gamers
ExpressVPN stands out as a top choice for console gamers thanks to its Lightway protocol, which offers excellent speed and stability. It’s especially easy to set up on routers, making it perfect for PlayStation and Xbox users. In our tests, ExpressVPN maintained low latency even during peak gaming hours and performed reliably across all major regions. Its strong encryption and privacy policies ensure safe, uninterrupted online play.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Optimized for console gaming | Higher cost compared to some competitors |
| Strong privacy policies | Limited to 8 simultaneous connections |
| Lightway protocol = low-latency speed |
Pricing and subscription plans
Monthly: $12.95
1-Year Plan: $6.67/month
2-Year Plan: $4.99/month – Best Value!
🔴 Best Deal: Get 2 year of ExpressVPN for just $4.99/month
Includes: 8 device connections, Lightway protocol, and full router support for console gaming
You can try it now with 30-days money back guarantee.
Want the full breakdown? Read our detailed ExpressVPN review to explore its performance, setup tips, and real-world speed tests.
Surfshark: Best Budget-Friendly VPN for Gamers
Surfshark is an ideal choice for gamers looking for performance without breaking the bank. It offers fast, low-latency connections powered by the WireGuard protocol, and supports unlimited devices under one subscription, perfect for families or shared networks. During our tests, Surfshark maintained consistent speeds, handled peak-hour gaming well, and included useful extras like CleanWeb to block trackers and ads. It’s easy to use and works across PC, mobile, and even console setups when used with a router.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great value with low monthly pricing | Fewer advanced settings on mobile |
| Unlimited simultaneous device connections | Slightly smaller server network |
| WireGuard protocol = fast, stable gaming |
Pricing and subscription plans
Monthly: $15.45
1-Year Plan: $3.19/month
2-Year Plan: $1.99/month – Best Value!
🔵 Best Deal: Get 2 years of Surfshark for just $1.99/month with 3 free months
Includes: Unlimited device connections, WireGuard protocol, and CleanWeb ad/tracker blocking
Try it now with 30-days money back guarantee.
Want the full breakdown? Read our complete Surfshark review for setup tips, speed tests, and real-world gaming insights.
CyberGhost: Best for Beginners
CyberGhost is perfect for gamers who want an easy setup without sacrificing performance. It features dedicated gaming servers, making it beginner-friendly while still offering solid speed and protection. During our testing, its WireGuard protocol delivered reliable performance, and its desktop and mobile apps were intuitive and clean. With one of the longest money-back guarantees in the market and strong privacy policies, CyberGhost is a great choice for casual gamers, streamers, and those new to VPNs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Pre-configured gaming servers for easy setup | Slower speeds on some long-distance servers |
| Very user-friendly interface | Lacks some advanced customization |
| Affordable long-term plans with great value |
Pricing and subscription plans
Monthly: $12.99
6-Month Plan: $6.99/month
2-Year Plan: $2.19/month – Best Value!
🟡 Best Deal: Get 2 years of CyberGhost for just $2.19/month with 2 free months
Includes: Dedicated gaming servers, WireGuard support, and a generous 45-day money-back guarantee
Try it now risk free.
Want to see how it performs under pressure? Check out our full CyberGhost VPN review for real-world results and beginner-friendly setup tips.
Private Internet Access (PIA): Best for Advanced Users & Customization
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a powerful option for gamers who want full control over their VPN settings. With WireGuard protocol support, thousands of servers, and advanced settings for split tunneling and encryption strength, PIA is built for experienced users. In our gaming tests, it performed consistently across PC and mobile, with minimal lag and solid download speeds. It also offers one of the highest device limits — making it a strong pick for households with multiple gamers or content creators.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Advanced customization options | Interface may feel complex for beginners |
| Massive server network across 90+ countries | Occasional speed variation on distant servers |
| Affordable pricing with 10-device limit |
Pricing and subscription plans
Monthly: $11.95
1-Year Plan: $3.33/month
2-Year Plan: $2.03/month – Best Value!
🟢 Best Deal: Get 2 years of PIA for just $2.03/month + extra 3 free months
Includes: Unlimited devices, WireGuard protocol, and full control over your gaming traffic with split tunneling
With 30-days money back guarantee, You can try it risk free
Dive deeper into the features in our complete PIA VPN review — perfect for power users and gamers who want more control.
Why Gamers Use VPNs in 2025
You might think VPNs are just for protecting your data or browsing privately — but in 2025, they’ve become one of the most useful tools for gamers too. Whether you’re a competitive player or someone who enjoys a few rounds in the evening, the right VPN can level up your gaming experience in more ways than one.
Stay Safe from DDoS Attacks
Online games can get intense, and unfortunately, some players take things too far. DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks are still a common problem in the gaming world — especially in ranked matches or tournaments. These attacks can flood your network and force you offline, ruining your session.
With a VPN, your real IP address is hidden. This makes it much harder for attackers to find and target you. The best VPNs for gaming in 2025 include built-in DDoS protection, giving you peace of mind during every match.
Reduce Lag and Stabilize Your Ping
A smooth, fast connection is everything in gaming. High ping or sudden lag spikes can ruin the fun — or worse, cause you to lose a game. Some internet providers still throttle bandwidth during gaming hours, especially if they detect high data use.
That’s where a gaming VPN helps. By rerouting your connection through optimized, less congested servers — sometimes even closer to the game’s own servers — it can actually lower your ping and keep your connection more stable. This is especially true with modern VPN protocols like WireGuard, NordLynx, and Lightway, which are designed for speed and minimal delay.
Unlock Global Servers and Early Access
One of the best parts of using a VPN for gaming in 2025 is the ability to connect to servers around the world. This lets you:
- Play on international servers
- Join friends in other regions
- Access region-exclusive games or updates
- Try early releases by switching to a country where the game launches first
It’s not just about access — it’s about freedom. A VPN gives you more control over where and how you play.
Avoid Throttling and ISP Limits
Many gamers don’t realize their internet is being slowed down on purpose. ISPs (Internet Service Providers) often limit bandwidth during high-traffic hours — especially for activities like streaming or gaming. This is called throttling, and it’s more common than you’d think. A VPN helps you avoid this by encrypting your traffic, so your ISP can’t see what you’re doing online. This means they can’t target your connection or slow it down during intense gaming sessions.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gaming VPN
Not all VPNs are made for gamers. Some slow down your connection, while others don’t offer the features that matter when you’re in the middle of an intense match. If you’re looking for the best VPN for gaming in 2025, here are the key things you should pay attention to before picking one.
Low Latency and Stable Speeds
The number one thing gamers care about is speed. A good gaming VPN should keep your connection fast and responsive. Look for VPNs that support modern protocols like WireGuard, NordLynx, or Lightway — these are designed for high-speed performance with low ping.
Also, check if the VPN has servers close to major game data centers. The closer the server, the less distance your data has to travel — which means less lag for you. Some VPNs even offer gaming-optimized servers, which can improve your in-game performance.
Security Features That Matter for Gamers
While speed is important, you still want a VPN that keeps you safe. At minimum, choose a VPN with:
- Strong encryption (AES-256)
- A no-logs policy
- DDoS protection
These features help protect your identity, shield your IP address, and stop attacks that could knock you offline during competitive play. VPNs like NordVPN and Surfshark, as mentioned in both earlier reviews, have been praised for offering solid security without slowing things down.
Ease of Use and Cross-Platform Compatibility
Your VPN should be easy to use — whether you’re gaming on PC, console, or mobile. The best options offer apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, plus support for routers if you’re on Xbox or PlayStation.
Look for a clean, user-friendly interface that lets you connect quickly without digging through settings. Bonus points if the VPN includes split tunneling, which lets you route only your gaming traffic through the VPN — keeping everything else on your regular connection for better speed balance.
Choosing the right VPN means finding the balance between speed, security, and convenience. The best VPN for gaming in 2025 will help you stay protected, play lag-free, and access more servers — all without making setup a headache.
Gaming Performance Test Results
When it comes to gaming, performance is everything. A VPN might be secure, but if it slows down your connection or causes lag, it’s just not worth it. That’s why we tested how each VPN actually performs while gaming — not just on paper, but in real-world scenarios.
We looked at key performance factors like download and upload speeds, ping (latency), and overall connection stability while playing online games like Call of Duty, Apex Legends, and Fortnite. Here’s what we found.
VPN Speed Drops vs. Gains
Almost every VPN causes some drop in speed, but the best gaming VPNs in 2025 keep it minimal — often under 10%.
- NordVPN performed exceptionally well with its NordLynx protocol, showing only a 4–6% drop in download speed, while ping remained low.
- Surfshark and CyberGhost also maintained solid speeds when connected to nearby servers, with download speed drops around 10–12%.
- ExpressVPN, using its Lightway protocol, balanced speed and stability well, especially when connected to game servers in the U.S. or Europe.
- PIA showed the widest range depending on the server, but with WireGuard active, it held its own with less than 15% loss in most cases.
Latency and Stability While Gaming
Ping is one of the most important things for gamers — especially in fast-paced online games. We tested ping before and after connecting to each VPN using local and international servers.
- NordVPN and ExpressVPN consistently delivered ping increases of only 10–15ms, which is barely noticeable during gameplay.
- CyberGhost had stable ping results on optimized gaming servers, although occasional spikes happened when switching between regions.
- Surfshark did well on mobile and desktop, but ping sometimes varied depending on server load.
- PIA provided a steady experience for PC users with some noticeable improvements when connected to local game servers.
Game Experience Summary
Across the board, all five VPNs are playable — but NordVPN and ExpressVPN delivered the most stable, lag-free experience during long sessions and high-traffic hours. Surfshark impressed us with how it handled multiple devices without major speed drops, which is great for shared networks. CyberGhost’s one-click gaming servers also made setup super easy, especially for beginners.
When you’re gaming, you don’t just want a secure VPN — you want one that keeps up with your pace. The best VPNs for gaming in 2025 prove that you can stay protected and connected without compromising on speed or performance.
VPNs for Console, Mobile, and PC Gamers
No matter what platform you play on — console, mobile, or PC — the right VPN can make your gaming smoother, safer, and more flexible. But each device has its own setup methods and things to consider. Here’s how VPNs work across different gaming platforms in 2025.
Using a VPN on Xbox and PlayStation
Unlike PCs or smartphones, gaming consoles don’t let you install VPN apps directly. But don’t worry — you still have options.
The most common method is to set up the VPN on your router. This way, every device on your home network, including your Xbox or PlayStation, is protected automatically. Some VPN providers (like ExpressVPN and NordVPN) make this easier by offering detailed guides or even pre-configured routers.
Alternatively, you can use Smart DNS — a feature offered by VPNs like Surfshark and CyberGhost. It won’t encrypt your data, but it can help you access games, stores, or streaming content from other countries.
Gaming with a VPN on Mobile Devices
Mobile gamers on Android and iOS can install VPN apps directly from the app store. It’s fast and simple — just log in, connect to a nearby server, and start playing.
VPNs like Surfshark and PIA run smoothly on mobile and let you bypass throttling, reduce lag, and protect your connection — especially when gaming on public Wi-Fi or unstable networks. Features like split tunneling also help route just your game data through the VPN, saving bandwidth.
Best Setup Tips for PC Gamers
If you’re on a gaming PC, using a VPN is the easiest. You can install the app, choose your protocol (like WireGuard or OpenVPN), and pick a server closest to your game’s data center.
Many VPNs also let you:
- Auto-connect when you launch certain games
- Create a whitelist of apps (split tunneling)
- Use dedicated IPs for smoother server access
PC gamers will appreciate the full control VPN apps provide, especially with services like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and PIA offering advanced settings and performance monitoring.
Whether you’re gaming on a phone, console, or PC, the best VPN for gaming in 2025 is one that fits your setup and gets you connected quickly. Most top VPNs today offer apps and features that make cross-platform gaming secure, fast, and incredibly easy to manage.
Pros and Cons of Using a VPN for Gaming in 2025
Using a VPN while gaming can be a total game-changer — but it’s not perfect in every situation. Like any tool, it comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide if a gaming VPN is right for you.
✅ Pros
- Protection Against DDoS Attacks
VPNs hide your real IP address, which helps block attackers from flooding your connection — especially useful in competitive or ranked matches. - Bypass Geo-Restrictions
Want to access game servers, stores, or content from another region? A VPN makes it easy to switch your virtual location and unlock those features. - Possible Ping Improvements
Some VPNs can reduce ping by routing your connection through more efficient paths — especially helpful if your ISP has poor routing or throttles gaming traffic. - Avoid ISP Throttling
Your internet provider might slow you down during high-usage hours. A VPN hides your activity, so you’re less likely to be targeted by bandwidth limits. - Extra Privacy While Gaming
VPNs encrypt your data, keeping your connection private and secure — even when gaming on public Wi-Fi.
❌ Cons
- Slight Speed Drops
Even the best VPNs might lower your internet speed a little, especially if you’re connected to a distant server. - Setup Can Be Tricky for Consoles
Since consoles don’t support VPN apps directly, you’ll need to set it up through a router or use Smart DNS — which takes extra time. - Some Games May Block VPN Traffic
A few online games or platforms might restrict access when using a VPN, especially if you switch servers often.
VPNs offer some great perks for gamers — from better protection to broader access. But they aren’t one-size-fits-all. If you choose the right provider and use it correctly, the benefits usually far outweigh the downsides.
Honorable Mentions: Other VPN Worth Considering for Gaming
While our top 5 picks lead the pack, several other VPNs also deserve a shoutout. These providers offer solid features that may suit specific gaming needs, especially if you’re looking for alternatives outside the mainstream options.
Each of these VPNs may not lead the charts, but they offer unique features, competitive pricing, or specific advantages that make them worth considering — especially if your gaming needs or location require something more tailored.
Mullvad VPN
Known for its strong privacy stance and no email sign-up policy, Mullvad is a favorite among privacy-focused gamers. It uses the fast WireGuard protocol and delivers consistent speeds — great for PC users who want full control without sacrificing anonymity.
Full Review Check Price
VyprVPN
VyprVPN offers its own Chameleon protocol, which is great for bypassing restrictive networks and censorship. It’s a strong option for gamers in countries where VPN usage is heavily monitored or throttled.
Full Review Check Price
Windscribe
Windscribe stands out for its flexible pricing and good performance, especially for casual gamers. It includes a free plan with limited data, making it a low-risk way to test VPN gaming performance before committing.
Full Review Check Price
Proton VPN
Built by the team behind ProtonMail, Proton VPN offers a secure, open-source platform with strong privacy tools. It has decent speed and a no-logs policy, though its free tier is limited for high-performance gaming.
Full Review Check Price
PrivateVPN
If you’re after simplicity and affordability, PrivateVPN is a no-fuss option. It supports all major platforms and has decent speed for gaming, especially in Europe and North America.
Full Review Check PriceFinal Verdict – Which VPN Should You Choose?
Choosing the best VPN for gaming in 2025 really depends on how and where you play. Whether you’re after the fastest connection, the best value, or something console-friendly, there’s a VPN that fits your style.
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- 🎯 For competitive gamers who want low ping and strong DDoS protection, NordVPN is a top choice with great speed and reliability.
- 🎮 Console players should consider ExpressVPN for its easy router setup and smooth performance on Xbox and PlayStation.
- 💰 Budget-conscious gamers or households with many devices will love Surfshark, offering unlimited connections at a super low price.
- 🧠 New to VPNs? Go with CyberGhost — it’s beginner-friendly and has dedicated gaming servers that make setup easy.
- 🧰 Advanced PC users who want customization and lots of server choices might prefer Private Internet Access (PIA).
All five VPNs we covered offer strong security, fast connections, and the tools to enhance your online gaming — without slowing you down. Just match the VPN to your platform and play style, and you’re ready to game smarter in 2025.
Conclusion
Online gaming in 2025 is more competitive, connected, and fast-paced than ever — and having the right VPN can give you a real edge. Whether you’re trying to avoid lag, protect your connection from DDoS attacks, or unlock global game servers, the best VPN for gaming in 2025 is the one that fits your setup and play style.
From NordVPN’s blazing speeds and strong privacy, to Surfshark’s budget-friendly unlimited devices, to ExpressVPN’s console support — there’s a perfect match for every type of gamer. And if you’re just getting started or want something simple, providers like CyberGhost and PIA offer great value without a steep learning curve.
Don’t let connection issues, region locks, or ISP throttling hold you back. Choose a trusted gaming VPN, set it up right, and enjoy a smoother, safer, and more flexible way to play — no matter where you are in the world.
FAQs – Best VPN for Gaming 2025
Will a VPN reduce my ping while gaming?
It depends. Some VPNs can actually lower your ping by routing traffic through faster, more direct paths to game servers — especially if your ISP has poor routing. However, if you connect to a distant server, your ping might increase slightly. The key is choosing a nearby, optimized VPN server.
Can I use a VPN for gaming on a console like Xbox or PS5?
Yes, but consoles don’t support VPN apps directly. You’ll need to set up the VPN on your router or use Smart DNS (offered by some VPNs like Surfshark and CyberGhost). Once set up, your console traffic will be protected and routed through the VPN automatically.
Is it legal to use a VPN for gaming?
Yes, using a VPN is legal in most countries — and completely fine for gaming. Just make sure you follow the rules of the games you’re playing. Some multiplayer games may limit or block VPN traffic to prevent abuse, but casual use for protection or access is usually not an issue.
Can a VPN get me access to early game releases or other regions?
Absolutely. A VPN lets you switch your virtual location, so you can access game stores or servers in other countries. This is a common trick to get early access to game launches or to play with friends in different regions.
What’s the best VPN protocol for gaming in 2025?
The fastest and most gaming-friendly VPN protocols in 2025 are WireGuard, NordLynx (NordVPN’s custom version), and Lightway (used by ExpressVPN). They offer high speed, low latency, and strong security — perfect for smooth online gaming.
What is the top VPN for gaming in 2025?
Based on speed, reliability, and gaming-specific features, NordVPN is widely considered the best VPN for gaming in 2025. It offers excellent low-latency performance thanks to its NordLynx protocol, strong DDoS protection, and a large server network — all crucial for smooth, secure online gameplay. ExpressVPN and Surfshark are also top contenders depending on your device and budget.
Do VPNs work with cloud gaming services like GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Yes, but performance varies. A high-speed VPN with low latency (like NordVPN or ExpressVPN) can work smoothly with cloud platforms. Just make sure to connect to a VPN server close to the cloud service’s data center to avoid added lag or buffering.
Can I get banned for using a VPN in online games?
Most game developers don’t ban players just for using a VPN. However, if you use it to bypass bans, cheat, or exploit matchmaking systems, you could get flagged. If you’re just using it for protection or region access, you’re generally safe.
Which VPN is best for reducing lag in FPS games?
For fast-paced shooters like Call of Duty or Valorant, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and PIA stand out due to their fast, stable connections and proximity-based servers. Look for VPNs that support WireGuard or Lightway for the best results.
Is a free VPN good enough for gaming?
Usually not. Free VPNs often have data caps, limited server choices, and slower speeds — which can lead to lag or disconnections. If you’re serious about online gaming, a paid VPN is worth the investment for speed, security, and reliability.
Can I use one VPN account on multiple gaming devices?
Yes! Services like Surfshark offer unlimited device connections, which is perfect for families or households with several gamers. Most others (like NordVPN or CyberGhost) support between 5 to 10 devices at once.
Does a VPN help avoid matchmaking region locks?
Yes. Some games group players based on location, which can limit who you play with. A VPN lets you change your virtual region, helping you access different matchmaking pools and play with friends abroad.
How do I know which VPN server to choose for gaming?
Pick a server close to the game server location for the best performance. Many VPN apps also highlight low-latency or gaming-optimized servers, making it easier to find the fastest connection.
