5 Best VPNs for Gaming [2024 Newest List]

If you’re an avid gamer, a VPN not only provides a secure and stable connection with reduced latency, but it also opens up access to global gaming content and lets you snag cheap Steam games. However, not all VPNs are created equal when it comes to gaming.

But worry not, leveraging our professional expertise, we’ve curated a list of the best 5 VPNs for gaming that deliver the best performance right now. Let’s dive in!

Why Use a VPN for Gaming?

In fact, a premium VPN can improve your gaming experience in multiple aspects:

・Enhance Your Security and Privacy: Hide your real IP address and gaming activities with VPN encryption, protecting you from DDoS attacks by other players.

・Slash Your Ping: A VPN can provide a quicker, more direct route to game servers, lowering game pings and boosting your connection stability.

・Unlock Global Content: Effortlessly access or download games or DLCs that are region-locked and play with friends from all over the world.

・Get Early Game Access: Connect to servers in regions where games release earlier and start playing the latest titles before they hit your local market.

・Boost Your Speed: Some ISPs throttle gaming traffic, but a VPN can help you bypass these restrictions, ensuring a smoother online gaming experience.

・Fix Connection Issues: When you face some connection problems, such as servers at capacity and Steam won’t open, a VPN can change your IP address and help you connect to servers that are up and running.

・Score Better Deals: Use a VPN to connect to servers in regions with lower prices, like Argentina or Turkey, and buy games or in-game currency for less.

💡If you want to buy cheap games on Steam, let’s read this detailed guide with clear screenshots: How to Buy Cheap Steam Games? [2024 Updated Guide]

Top 5 VPNs for Gaming in 2024

To determine the final list, we conducted a rigorous VPN test. The specific test and criteria are shown below:

📝How Many We Tested	18 VPNs for gaming
📱Devices We Used	Dell Alienware, MacBook, iPhone 16, Galaxy Z Flip5, Xbox SS, PS5, Switch
🎮Games We Tested	LOL, CS2, Call of Duty, Apex Legends, PUBG
⏱Time Duration	8 Days
🔥What We Value	Usability, Speed, Latency, Security, Functionality
🥇Top Choice	X-VPN

💡Over 8 days, we thoroughly evaluated the top 18 VPNs on the market. Using SpeedTest and other tools, we tested their installation complexity and data transfer speeds on 7 gaming platforms. We also recorded and averaged in-game ping values for 5 online multiplayer games before and after using each VPN, presenting the results in table form in the review section of each tool.

Now let’s check our top list of Best VPNs for Gaming.

X-VPN: Best VPN for All Gamers

Overall, X-VPN is undoubtedly our top recommended gaming VPN, with its exceptional features, security, reliability, and high availability tailored specifically for gamers.

This outstanding service provider has over 8000 high-speed servers worldwide, perfectly catering to your needs whether you want to unlock game content from specific regions or find the best game deals. 

X-VPN also excels in security. It strictly adheres to a no-logs policy, while boasting various advanced security features, such as AES-256 encryption, Kill Switch, leak protection, etc., ensuring comprehensive online safety and anonymity. There’s no need to worry about your crucial ranked matches being disrupted by malicious DDoS attacks or stealing your gaming account.

What’s more surprising is that X-VPN is one of the few providers that offer a completely free version. With no data limits and no registration required, it is an unparalleled choice for any VPN novice. 

Basic Features

Global Servers	8000+ servers in 65 countries
Compatibility	Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Xbox, PS, Switch, TVs, etc.
Security	🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡
Speed	Fast and Stable
Connections	5 Simultaneous Connections
Free Version	Provide. 1000+ free servers with no data limitation and log in.
Premium Plan	Monthly: $11.99/mo, Yearly: $5.99/mo

Performance in Online Gaming

X-VPN supports various common devices, and is perfectly compatible with the 3 major gaming consoles: Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch. Although these consoles cannot directly install VPN apps, you can still enjoy X-VPN’s powerful features by setting up the VPN on your router or configuring a proxy server on the console.

While VPN encryption inevitably affects speed, not all VPNs meet the high demands of online gaming. But X-VPN uses an intelligent routing system to automatically select the fastest server for users and provides dedicated game servers optimized for data routing, minimizing VPN-induced latency and ensuring smooth multiplayer gameplay.

The Test Result of the X-VPN’s Latency on Different Platforms

Platforms	Without X-VPN	With X-VPN
Windows	25ms	41ms
macOS	37ms	52ms
iOS	41ms	51ms
Andriod	47ms	65ms
Xbox Series S	31ms	47ms
PlayStation 5	44ms	57ms
Switch	51ms	67ms

Pros and Cons for Gamer

😆Best VPN for Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and other game consoles. 

😆Perfect balance between fast speed and robust security.

😆Excellent unblock ability with VPN obfuscation function.

😆Offers a truly completely free version.

👿Lacks more security tools like ad blocker and virus protection.

Now you can press the button to try this free VPN on any device and read the detailed guide below on how to use a VPN on different gaming devices.

NordVPN

As one of the most renowned VPNs available, NordVPN unequivocally earns its place on our recommended list. Its impressive blend of comprehensive features and exceptional user-friendliness consistently stands out.

Gamers benefit from complete online protection with NordVPN. Its robust security measures ensure your IP address remains concealed during gameplay, while preventing DNS and WebRTC leaks. When lifting geo-restrictions, whether hunting for low-priced games or unblocking the streaming library, NordVPN’s extensive global network—spanning over 6400 servers across 111 countries—offers unparalleled reliability and support.

Slightly unfortunately, though, NordVPN is expensive, costing $12.99 per month, and does not offer a free version.

Basic Features

Global Servers	6400+ servers in 111 countries
Compatibility	Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Xbox, PS, Switch, TVs, etc.
Security	🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡
Speed	Fast and Stable
Connections	10 Simultaneous Connections
Free Version	❌
Premium Plan	Monthly: $12.99/mo, Yearly: $4.99/mo

Performance in Online Gaming

NordVPN boasts exceptional compatibility, allowing gamers to enjoy VPN features on PCs, smartphones, and consoles. Furthermore, its speed performance is remarkable, especially with the proprietary NordLynx protocol, where speed loss is kept to an astonishingly low 5%. However, its latency performance is a bit less impressive.

On both Windows and macOS, the latency after connecting to NordVPN exceeds 80 ms. While this doesn’t significantly impact the smoothness of online gaming, it might not be ideal for advanced FPS gamers who require high accuracy and quick responses. But fortunately, NordVPN exhibits better performance on other devices.

The Test Result of the NordVPN’s Latency on Different Platforms

Platforms	Without NordVPN	With NordVPN
Windows	27ms	83ms
macOS	38ms	92ms
iOS	41ms	71ms
Andriod	37ms	61ms
Xbox Series S	29ms	51ms
PlayStation 5	37ms	55ms
Switch	54ms	77ms

Pros and Cons for Gamer

😆Blazing speeds with minimal speed loss.

😆Offers robust security features and a suite of practical security tools.

😆Supports rich VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard.

👿Pricy, with no free version.

👿Average latency performance on PC.

Surfshark

Surfshark is a rapidly rising and highly-regarded VPN provider, offering cost-effective annual plans and unlimited device connections, making it ideal for experienced gamers.

Although its 3200 servers are fewer than X-VPN and NordVPN, Surfshark’s coverage spans 100 countries, effectively bypassing geographical restrictions to expand your game library and access global multiplayer lobbies. Also, Surfshark is good at privacy and security, pledging not to log or sell user data and providing robust protection against malicious players and hackers.

Surfshark does not offer a free version, and its monthly plan costs $15.45. However, the provider attracts long-term users with its extremely affordable annual plan, priced at just $2.99/mo.

Basic Features

Global Servers	3200+ servers in 100 countries
Compatibility	Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Xbox, PS, Switch, TVs, etc.
Security	🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡️
Speed	Fast and Stable
Connections	Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
Free Version	❌
Premium Plan	Monthly: $15.45/mo, Yearly: $2.99/mo

Performance in Online Gaming

Surfshark offers broad compatibility and unlimited simultaneous connections, ideal for gamers with multiple devices. Although you can’t get a VPN download on consoles, you can connect via a router or hotspot.

Surfshark also provides secure, high-speed, and low-latency connections with WireGuard protocol. But its mobile app, despite its sleek design, tends to drain battery life and offers somewhat less stable connectivity. According to our test results, Surfshark outperforms on PCs with lower latency compared to NordVPN, but is slightly weaker on mobile devices.

The Test Result of the Surfshark’s Latency on Different Platforms

Platforms	Without Surfshark	With Surfshark
Windows	22ms	57ms
macOS	37ms	60ms
iOS	31ms	71ms
Andriod	38ms	82ms
Xbox Series S	39ms	71ms
PlayStation 5	47ms	85ms
Switch	34ms	69ms

Pros and Cons for Gamer

😆Shields multiple gaming devices simultaneously with unlimited connections.

😆Provides clean and safe browsing experience with its CleanWeb feature.

😆Sets a Whitelist function to allow users to select other apps to disconnect the VPN.

👿Average latency performance on Mobile.

👿Only annual plans(or more long-term plans) are cost-effective.

👿Not free version.

CyberGhost

CyberGhost is also our highly recommended VPN provider, offering a top-notch service for users who want a smooth and secure gaming experience.

CyberGhost’s greatest strength lies in its vast VPN network of over 10000 servers in 100 countries. This extensive coverage enables online gamers to access game servers in almost any region, thus effectively reducing latency and unlocking global content. 

And in other respects, CyberGhost is no slouch either. It offers extremely simple and straightforward applications with all the usual security features integrated. Even novices can create a sturdy shield with CyberGhost in seconds.

Basic Features

Global Servers	10000+ servers in 100 countries
Compatibility	Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Xbox, PS, Switch, TVs, etc.
Security	🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡️
Speed	Decent
Connections	7 Simultaneous Connections
Free Version	❌
Premium Plan	Monthly: $12.99/mo, Yearly: $2.19/mo

Performance in Online Gaming

Unlike the above 3 products, CyberGhost is not renowned for its speed. Our tests indicated an average speed loss of around 23% when connected to CyberGhost. Despite this impact on download speeds, the overall gaming experience remained relatively smooth and stable.

To offset the speed deficit, CyberGhost offers specially optimized game servers to minimize VPN impact on gaming. On macOS, CyberGhost performs exceptionally well, with less latency increase. Meanwhile, with data routing optimized by dedicated servers, the experience on other devices met expectations and maintained a stable connection for a long period of time.

The Test Result of the CyberGhost’s Latency on Different Platforms

Platforms	Without CyberGhost	With CyberGhost
Windows	27ms	67ms
macOS	32ms	41ms
iOS	28ms	69ms
Andriod	38ms	78ms
Xbox Series S	41ms	82ms
PlayStation 5	31ms	79ms
Switch	34ms	71ms

Pros and Cons for Gamer

😆Provides gaming-optimized servers to lower the latency.

😆Easy to set up and use, suitable for beginners.

😆Efficiently unblock global gaming content via its Smart DNS function.

👿Average latency performance on consoles.

👿Lacks advanced VPN security features.

👿Not free version.

PIA

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a steadily growing VPN provider that, true to its lock brand icon, places a strong emphasis on security and privacy. It offers players rock-solid online protection and strictly adheres to a no-logs policy.

Similar to CyberGhost but better, PIA boasts an even more extensive server network spanning 91 regions with 35000+ servers. Coupled with port forwarding and smart DNS features that help bypass network and geographical restrictions, PIA is very good at reducing gaming pings and unlocking additional game content.

Notably, PIA is one of the few providers that offer optimized services for Linux users, making it an ideal choice for those frequently gaming on the Steam Deck.

Basic Features

Global Servers	35000+ servers in 91 countries
Compatibility	Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Xbox, PS, Switch, TVs, etc.
Security	🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡️
Speed	A Little Slow
Connections	Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
Free Version	❌
Premium Plan	Monthly: $11.95/mo, Yearly: $3.33/mo

Performance in Online Gaming

PIA is compatible with all common devices and supports setup on routers for application to gaming consoles. However, due to its greater focus on security features, PIA’s average speeds are slightly less impressive than comparable VPNs. This means that you might need to consider other VPN options if you want to livestream or run other online activities alongside your gaming.

Nonetheless, PIA’s large server network makes it easier for users to find low-latency servers, so its latency performance is relatively excellent on all types of devices, providing users with a smooth gaming experience and responsive action.

The Test Result of the PIA’s Latency on Different Platforms

Platforms	Without PIA	With PIA
Windows	30ms	62ms
macOS	29ms	61ms
iOS	38ms	64ms
Andriod	35ms	71ms
Xbox Series S	31ms	58ms
PlayStation 5	41ms	77ms
Switch	35ms	65ms

Pros and Cons for Gamer

😆Unlimited device connections with great compatibility.

😆Good at encrypting your traffic to prevent ISP Throttling.

😆Very suitable for Linux or Steam Deck users.

👿Slow speed.

👿Higher ping with Wi-Fi.

👿Not free version.

Pro Tip: Can a VPN Lower Game Ping?

However, the value of the game Ping is often related to the distance between your geo-location and the game server. The farther the distance, the higher the latency. Thus, if the connected VPN server is so close to the game server, the data transmission distance through the VPN will be shorter than that of a regular connection, thereby reducing the game Ping.

The Test Result of Reducing Ping with X-VPN(on Windows PC)

Game	Without X-VPN	With X-VPN
LOL	54ms	43ms
Call of Duty: Warzone	73ms	46ms
CS: GO	81ms	54ms
Apex Legends	67ms	48ms

Additionally, some games are subject to ISP restrictions. For instance, while the Ping for other games might be around 20ms on a regular connection, the Ping for game XX could reach 300ms. In such scenarios, a VPN can route through remote servers, bypassing ISP limitations, and ensuring game XX’s Ping remains stable and usable.

Therefore, a VPN can reduce Ping, but it’s essential to choose a provider like X-VPN that offers a wide range of servers and excellent unblocking capabilities.

💡If you want to check out more ways to lower game Ping besides using a VPN, read this blog: Why Is My Ping So High? 9 Tips to Lower Your Ping.

Quick Comparison Table of Best VPNs for Gaming

To make it more efficient, we have provided you with a direct comparison table of the best 5 best VPNs for gaming.

	X-VPN	NordVPN	Surfshark	CyberGhost	PIA
Rate	4.8/5	4.7/5	4.5/5	4.3/5	4.1/5
No-log Policy	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎
Servers	8000	6400	3200	10000	35000
Connections	5	10	Unlimited	7	Unlimited
Free Version	✔︎	✖︎	✖︎	✖︎	✖︎
Monthly Plan	$11.99	$12.99	$15.45	$12.99	$11.95
Consoles Support	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎	✔︎
Speed	Fast	Fast	Fast	Decent	Slow
Latency on PC	46ms	87ms	58ms	54ms	61ms
Latency on Mobile	58ms	66ms	76ms	73ms	67ms
Latency on Consoles	57ms	61ms	75ms	77ms	66ms

The advantages of X-VPN for gaming are evident upon closer examination. It provides exceptionally low latency, robust security, and fast speeds, and also good at reducing game ping and delivering a seamless gaming experience while circumventing ISP throttling.

If you are still unsure about subscribing, feel free to start with the free version to get a taste of its functionality in gaming. Or, just hit the button below to take advantage of X-VPN’s 30-day trial period with a money-back guarantee, enjoying access to all advanced features.

How to Choose the Best VPN for Gaming？

If you’re interested to discover more services, these key factors you must consider while choosing a VPN for gaming:

・Low Latency: look for a VPN that doesn’t cause too much latency to ensure smooth online gaming.

・High Speed: Ensure the provider does not cause too much speed loss that can affect data processing speed and cause lagging during gameplay.

・Availability: Choose a VPN that is compatible with all your gaming devices, including PCs, phones, and mainstream consoles.

・Security&Privacy: Choose a VPN that offers AES-256 encryption and advanced security features to stop DDoS attacks and account theft, and enforces a strict no-logs policy with a clean record. 

・Server location: Providers with diverse global server options are more likely to support you closer to the servers to game servers, thus reducing game pings.

・Accessibility: Pick a VPN with strong unblocking capabilities for easy access to global content and gaming communities.

・Stability: Ensure the VPN delivers a stable connection during gaming sessions.

How to Use a VPN on Different Gaming Devices？

In addition to the VPN recommendation, we also provide detailed guides on how use a VPN on Different game devices, using X-VPN as the demo tool.

For Windows and Mac:

Step 1. Click the button to get the X-VPN download for free on your PC.

Step 2. Open X-VPN, sign in with your account or not, and hit the Quick Connect button to let the app find the fastest server for you automatically.

・Also, you can click the Select Location button to choose a server in a specific region, or just navigate to the For Game&Video option to choose a dedicated server for gaming.

Step 3. Now you can launch your game and enjoy it with VPN protection.

For iOS and Android:

Step 1. Click the button or navigate to an App store to download the VPN for iOS and VPN for Android.

Step 2. Open X-VPN, sign in with your account or not, and hit the Quick Connect button to let the app find the fastest server for you automatically.

・Also, you can click the Server option to choose a server in a specific region, or just navigate to the Video&Game option to choose a dedicated server for gaming.

For Game Consoles:

The universal way to use a VPN on a gaming console is to set it up on your router. This way, you can enjoy all the features of a VPN over Wi-Fi connection, whether you have an Xbox, Playstation, Switch, or Steam Deck.

However, while configuring a VPN on a router requires high technical skill, most VPN providers only provide this function to premium users. So to use a VPN on your consoles, you can check out X-VPN premium plan, or just get a 30-day free trial with our 0-risk refund guarantee.

Step 1. Navigate to X-VPN official site and log in to an X-VPN premium account.

Step 2. Then move to My Account > Router Settings, copy the matching VPN credential X-VPN provided according to your router model/VPN protocol, and download the “.ovpn” files.

Step 3. Head to the router IP address via a browser and sign in.

Step 4. Finish the VPN configuration via the VPN credential you copied and the downloaded files.

Step 5. Activate the connection, connect the Wi-Fi on your console, and enjoy better gaming now.

💡If you want to know the detailed steps or other ways to use a VPN on a gaming consoles, these tutorials can help you out:

・How to Set up a VPN on Your Router?

・How to use X-VPN on Xbox?

・How to use X-VPN on PS4 and PS5?

・How to use X-VPN on Nintendo Switch?

Conclusion

In this blog, we reviewed the 5 best VPNs for gaming in 2024, and X-VPN came out on top with its exceptionally low latency, high speed, and strong security. You can just hit the button to download X-VPN, or choose your preferred one from our list and immerse yourself in the world of smooth and safe gaming.

FAQs