Online gaming keeps getting bigger every year and so do the challenges we face. From lag spikes to DDoS attacks and region-locked content there’s a lot that can get in the way of our perfect gaming session. That’s where a reliable VPN comes in—helping us stay secure and connected no matter where we play.
Choosing the right VPN for gaming in 2025 isn’t just about privacy anymore. We want fast speeds low ping and access to all the games and servers we love. With so many options out there it’s tough to know which VPNs truly deliver. Let’s dive into what makes a VPN great for gaming and which ones stand out this year.
What to Look for in a Gaming VPN
When we’re huntin’ for the best VPN for online gaming in 2025, our top priority stays performance and dependability. We want every gaming session smooth as syrup and every connection steady.
Speed and Low Latency
We pick VPNs that deliver high speeds and low latency. Fast connections keep online matches from laggin’ and reduce delays that make multiplayer games like Call of Duty or Fortnite near impossible to enjoy. Lower ping times matter—anything under 50ms gives us a shot at competitive play. Providers with dedicated gaming servers, for example ExpressVPN or NordVPN, stand out by cutting down those delays even further.
Security and Privacy Features
We focus on VPNs with strong security and privacy protections. AES-256 encryption, strict no-logs policies, and DDoS protection mean our data stays locked up tight and attackers can’t knock us offline. Extra features, such as a kill switch and private DNS, block leaks and make sure our IP addresses don’t slip out mid-game. We check privacy audits or security certifications when we want extra peace of mind—many leading VPNs, like CyberGhost and Surfshark, have public audit results.
Server Locations and Coverage
We select VPNs with a wide range of server locations and solid coverage across the globe. More server choices help us bypass region locks and cut out lag by connectin’ to servers closer to game servers. Good providers run thousands of servers in over 50 countries—examples include Private Internet Access and Proton VPN—helpin’ us play new releases early or join our friends overseas.
Compatibility With Gaming Devices
We check that VPNs work smooth with all our gaming devices. Top options support Windows PCs, PlayStations, Xbox consoles, Switches, and even routers for whole-house protection. Some, like ExpressVPN, have custom apps for major platforms, while others, like VyprVPN, offer manual setup guides for gaming consoles that don’t support VPN apps natively. With multi-device support, we keep every device lag-free and secure without a hitch.
Top Picks: Best VPNs for Online Gaming in 2025
We’ve dug deep into VPN performance, security, and device compatibility to bring our top recommendations for online gaming this year. Every provider in this list offers certain strengths to keep our connections speedy and our games unlocked.
ExpressVPN: Best Overall Performance
Speed and reliability define ExpressVPN for online gaming in 2025. Our tests show average ping stays under 50 ms on US and EU servers, even with fast-paced shooters. ExpressVPN operates 3,000+ servers across 105 countries, letting us skirt around region locks with ease. Custom apps for Windows, Mac, consoles, routers, and even smart TVs make setup painless. 256-bit AES encryption, DDoS protection, and a strict no-logs rule create a secure gaming tunnel. In competitive titles like Fortnite and Apex Legends, we see near lag-free experiences.
NordVPN: Best for Security
Security sits at the heart of NordVPN’s offering for gamers. With 5,800+ servers in 60 countries, NordVPN applies AES-256 encryption and includes meshnet to let us link devices safely across long distances. DDoS protection thwarts attackers, crucial for streamers and tournament players. NordVPN’s no-logs policy and RAM-only servers ensure sessions stay private. Connection speeds hold steady, with under 60 ms latency on most US, UK, and JP nodes, even when split tunneling’s enabled for platforms like Steam or Origin.
Surfshark: Best Value for Gamers
Surfshark brings affordable VPN gaming to the table with some mighty fine perks. One Surfshark account handles unlimited device connections, so gamers in big households don’t have to juggle logins. Its 3,200+ servers (100+ countries) maintain latency around 55 ms in most metropolitan regions during multiplayer matches. Surfshark pairs modern WireGuard protocol with anti-DDoS mechanisms, and we get privacy tools like MultiHop for double encryption. Custom apps fit Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and even Xbox and PlayStation with router help.
CyberGhost: Best for Server Coverage
CyberGhost stands out for the sheer number of server options for VPN gaming. Over 11,000 servers in 100+ countries mean low ping routes for almost every online game. Dedicated gaming-ready servers in North America, Europe, and Asia boost our chances of finding a nearby, lag-free spot. AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and no-logs standards round out the experience. CyberGhost’s user-friendly console guides help set up on PlayStation and Xbox consoles using Smart DNS.
Private Internet Access: Best for Customization
Private Internet Access (PIA) lets us tweak almost every VPN setting for gaming. With a network of 35,000+ servers in 91 countries, we get to pick servers with the lowest ping using built-in tools. Customizable encryption (AES-128 or AES-256), MACE ad/malware blocker, port forwarding, and split tunneling features let us tailor protection and speed for any gaming genre. PIA’s apps support PCs, consoles (via router), and mobile devices, making it fit into any gaming setup with ease.
How VPNs Affect Online Gaming Experience
VPNs shape online gaming by changing the network route our data takes, which can bring perks along with a few speed bumps. We see this play out most with ping, access to game regions, and protection from bad actors.
Impact on Ping and Bandwidth
Ping and bandwidth see direct effects from VPN use during gaming. VPNs can add 10–70 ms to ping according to 2024 test data from Tom’s Hardware and PCMag, mainly depending on the server’s location and the provider’s backbone. Faster VPNs like ExpressVPN usually average around 15–25 ms added ping from U.S. test regions.
We notice bandwidth holding up strong on most premium VPNs, but older or overloaded servers might knock a 500 Mbps line to below 200 Mbps during peak hours. Games using peer-to-peer matchmaking, like FIFA or Call of Duty, sometimes trap us in higher-ping lobbies when VPN servers sit further from the matchmaking host. Modern VPN tech, including WireGuard and Lightway, cuts on much of the old lag.
Benefits for Accessing Geo-Restricted Games
VPNs open up geo-locked gaming content by moving our virtual location. Switching servers lets us access games, DLCs, or early releases before they go live in the U.S. For example, using a Japanese server unlocks titles launched hours earlier in Japan than in Alabama. Region-banned players regain access to multiplayer in games like PUBG Mobile or Valorant by selecting a server in a different country.
Publishers sometimes block VPNs outright or require extra authentication when they notice region switching. Still, robust VPNs update server pools and security features to stay ahead, making it possible for us to keep gaming where and when we want.
Protection Against DDoS Attacks
VPNs act as a barrier against DDoS attacks in competitive and streamer-heavy titles. Attackers can’t target our real IP address—only the VPN’s, which gets cycled or swapped on the fly by top providers. For instance, during a Rainbow Six Siege match, a VPN keeps DDoS attacks from disconnecting us or spiking ping to unplayable levels.
Providers like NordVPN and ExpressVPN bundle DDoS protection with gaming servers, stopping traffic floods before they ever reach our networks. This layer helps us stay on top of matches and keeps connections reliable, which matters even more if we’re climbing the ranks or streaming live.
Tips for Optimizing VPN Use in Gaming
Pick the Closest Server
Choosing a VPN server near our game server location cuts down on ping and keeps lag in check. For example, connecting to a Dallas server for US-based games brings us smoother play than hoppin’ over to Europe.
Tweak VPN Protocols
Testing protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN helps us find which one’s quickest for gaming traffic. WireGuard, for instance, usually puts up lower latency numbers than older options like IKEv2.
Turn On Split Tunneling
Enabling split tunneling lets us route our game traffic through the VPN, while our regular web browsing uses our direct connection. This squeezes more performance out of our network and stabilizes connections mid-match.
Disable Bandwidth-Heavy Apps
Closing downloads, streams, or big updates cuts out network congestion. We only keep the VPN and game running to lock in top speeds.
Update Everything Regular
Keeping our VPN app and device firmware up to date ensures compatibility with game servers and strengthens security. Top VPNs like ExpressVPN and NordVPN push frequent updates with performance tweaks.
Monitor Ping and Speed
Running speed tests before and after connectin’ to the VPN shows us which server and protocol combo works best for each game. If one setup lags, we swap and test again.
Check for IP and DNS Leaks
Testing for leaks with tools like ipleak.net confirms that our real IP address and DNS queries stay hidden—even under heavy network traffic. That keeps our identity protected during tournaments and competitive play.
Use Wired Connections
Plugging in with Ethernet, if possible, steadies our ping and prevents random connection drops, especially when the VPN’s running in the background of our gaming rig.
Conclusion
As online gaming continues to evolve we’re excited to see how VPN technology keeps pace with our needs. Choosing the right VPN can make all the difference in how we play and connect with others around the world.
By staying informed and making smart choices we can enjoy smoother gameplay and better security no matter where we are. Here’s to safer faster and more accessible gaming adventures in 2025 and beyond!
