We’re all pretty much aware of the term VPN, isn’t it? VPN, aka Virtual Private Network, is often used to enhance privacy while you’re browsing online. A VPN allows you to establish a secure connection, encrypts your data to make sure that your privacy is not sabotaged at any cost. So, now you must be wondering why one would need a VPN for gaming?
The Best VPN For Gaming is the one that keeps your Internet connection stable and protects your digital privacy while surfing the web. These Virtual Private Networks should be easy to set up and ensure a hiccup-free experience while playing your favorite games online.
We’ve tried and tested dozens of apps to help you select the best gaming VPN service, but only a few lived to tell the tale. Below are some robust VPN Solutions for PC Gamers that undoubtedly provide the right kind of security and speed. Plus, they keep everything you do online completely anonymous!
How We Tested These Gaming VPN Software For You?
Before listing each VPN App for Windows/Mac/Android/iOS, they all had to pass the following parameters. These were:
- Their ease of use. From installing the VPN to connecting to the right server, users should not feel challenged to use the software.
- The type of encryption protocol it uses to anonymize your digital footprints and keep your data & device protected. AES-256 encryption & a blend of OpenVPN, IKev2, and WireGuard are the gold standards for solid privacy & security.
- Flexibility to browse amongst various locations. Choose a VPN service that offers a variety of server locations to establish a fast and reliable connection for the best streaming, torrenting & surfing experience. Premium services like Systweak VPN have over 4500+ Servers in 200+ locations & 53+ countries.
- Is it a free VPN? Well, at first, you might be tempted to opt for a free service, but remember, free does not necessarily mean better. If you are looking for a hassle-way to unblock geo-restricted content while traveling, make sure you choose a reliable service that doesn’t offer limited bandwidth. Compare prices to analyze if it is worthwhile or not!
- Go through users’ reviews. Get to know both the positive and negative sides of the tool before installing it on your device.
- Efficient customer support is also a crucial aspect. Different forms of contact should be available to get quick solutions related to product, subscription, or overall.
10 Best VPNs For Gaming To Use In 2023
Well, if you’re using a VPN for playing games, it will not just maintain your privacy but will also allow you to play games that are not available in your region. Some other perks of using a gaming VPN include low lags, encrypting the gaming traffic, securing you against DDoS attacks, and more.
1. Systweak VPN
Systweak VPN is an excellent choice for VPN service, as it uses next-generation encryption techniques to keep your online privacy intact. Also, this powerful VPN service doesn’t log any information of your online sessions and follows a strict privacy policy so that no third-party can get access to your data.
Key features:
- Blazing fast servers.
- Supports smart DNS feature.
- Anonymous and secure web browsing.
- Compatible OS: Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, and Windows 10
Pros
- Secure and reliable VPN
- Bypass ISP throttling
- Masks IP address
- 256-bit military-grade data encryption.
Cons
- Live chat support not available.
Pricing Plans:
- 1-month Plan: 9.95$ monthly cost.
- 12-months plan (Recommended): 71.40$ annual subscription cost.
2. NordVPN
Nord VPN is one of the best VPNs for gaming to take your cybersecurity game to the next level. The application makes browsing safer, faster & smoother than ever before, without leaving any digital footprints. Besides, it offers a Meshnet feature to connect to any remote device directly over an encrypted tunnel. And a dedicated Dark Web Monitor to alert you about any data leaks.
Key features:
- Optimized gaming servers to provide a secure environment.
- Next-generation encryption with 5500+ servers in 60 countries.
- Threat protection feature to protect you from ads, trackers & malware.
- Compatible OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.
Pros
- Get a dedicated IP Address & mask the original one.
- With one account, you can connect up to 6 devices.
- Hides your Internet traffic for maximum security.
- Use multi-factor authentication.
- Strict no-logs policy.
Cons
- Sometimes it takes a long time to connect.
Pricing Plans:
- Standard= $11.99/Mo (Monthly Plan), $4.99/Mo (1-Year Plan), $3.09/Mo (2-Year Plan)
- Plus = $13.19/Mo (Monthly Plan), $6.19/Mo (1-Year Plan), $4.29/Mo (2-Year Plan)
- Complete = $14.79/Mo (Monthly Plan), $7.79/Mo (1-Year Plan), $5.89/Mo (2-Year Plan)
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is one of the most trusted VPN brands available online that offer you an unbelievably fast and secure VPN service. It also offers powerful online protection while blocking your IP address so that no third-party website can get access to your browsing information.
Key Features:
- Fastest VPN service.
- Strict zero-logging privacy policy for enhanced security.
- Supports Split tunneling to manage traffic.
- Compatible OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, PlayStation, Xbox console.
Pros
- Ultra-fast VPN servers for an enhanced gaming experience.
- Unlimited network bandwidth covers more than 160 locations in 94 countries.
- 30-day money-back free trial.
- 100% secure and anonymous.
Cons
- A few advanced features not available on the iOS app.
Pricing Plans:
- 1-month plan: 12.95 $ per month.
- 6-month plan: 9.99$ per month.
- 15-months plan (Recommended): Comes at a mere cost of 6.67$ per month subscription cost.
4. Surfshark
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that comes with a 30-day free trial facility. Surfshark is an excellent choice for VPN service whether you’re using it for gaming, browsing or streaming content on the web. One of the good expressvpn alternatives.
Key Features:
- Protects your device from malware and phishing attempts.
- Robust AES-256 encryption protocol.
- A unique Kill Switch feature that disables your Internet connection as soon as the VPN connection drops.
- Compatible OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, iOS, Android, Wi-Fi Router.
Pros
- Works best with Netflix, anonymous browsing and gaming.
- Follows no-log policy.
- A secure and reliable choice for torrenting.
- Double VPN that routes traffic to two different servers.
- Value for money.
Cons
- Minor issues with device compatibility.
Pricing Plans:
- 1-month: 11.95$ per month cost.
- 12-months: 5.99$ per month cost.
- 36-months: 1.94$ per month subscription cost.
5. Cyberghost
Powered by more than 15 years of expertise, Cyberghost can be an ideal pick if you’re looking for best VPN for gaming.
Key Features:
- Simple, easy to understand, streamlined user interface.
- You can create unique dedicated profiles for different activities.
- 6000+ servers.
- Compatible OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, iOS, Android, Wi-Fi routers.
Pros
- Stream and browse without any limitations.
- Protects your online identity.
- Secure online banking experience.
- Hides your IP address.
- Protection against DDoS attacks.
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- Service not available in a few regions.
Pricing Plans:
- 1-month: 12.99$ per month subscription cost.
- 6-months: 7.99$ per month.
- 1-year: Value for money, the annual plan will cost your around 2.75$ per month subscription cost.
6. Private Internet Access
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly VPN for gaming with an attractive price tag and high-end security features, then you can rely on Private Internet Access VPN without a second doubt.
Key Features:
- Budget-friendly.
- Easy installation and setup.
- Strict zero-logging policy.
- Compatible OS: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Wi-Fi routers.
Pros
- Open-source virtual network.
- Reliable and trustworthy.
- Ideal for beginners.
- Value for money.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- A bit slower as compared to other VPN services in the same price segment.
Pricing Plans:
- 1-month: 11.95$ per month cost.
- 1-year: 3.33$ per month cost.
- 26-months plan (Recommended): 2.69$ per month subscription cost.
7. Hotspot Shield: Fastest VPN for Gaming
Hotspot Shield is a reliable and trusty VPN service for gaming that offers you blazing-fast speed and efficiency for an optimal gaming experience. It also offers you complete malware protection against any kind of cyber threats.
Key Features:
- High-end military-grade encryption.
- Ultra-fast speed.
- No IP address leaks.
- Compatible OS: Windows, Mac, Android, Chromebook.
Pros
- High-end gaming experience.
- Unlimited HD streaming.
- 24×7 live chat support.
- Identity theft protection.
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- Displays advertisements.
Pricing Plans:
- Basic Plan: 0.00$ monthly cost with a limited set of features which include private browsing, SD streaming.
- Premium Plan: 7.99 monthly cost.
8. IP Vanish
IP Vanish is next on our list of best VPN for gaming. It offers you optimum online freedom so that you can enjoy playing games that are available across different countries and regions.
Key Features:
- Available in more than 50+ countries and regions.
- Masks your IP address.
- Fast ping recording.
- Compatible OS: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux.
Pros
- Establishes up to 10 simultaneous connections.
- Support secure anonymous torrenting.
- Follows zero-log policy.
- AES-256 encryption.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- Not supported in China.
Pricing Plans:
- 1-month: 10$ monthly cost.
- 3-months: 8.99$ monthly cost.
- 1 year: 6.49$ monthly cost.
9. PureVPN
PureVPN is an excellent VPN service for gaming that comes with an easy to use interface, setup and configuration process. It follows reliable security protocols to ensure a safe connection while you’re enjoying the VPN services.
Key Features:
- Smart DNS feature for gaming consoles.
- Support extended across more than 140+ countries.
- Zilch geo-restrictions.
- Compatible OS: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox.
Pros
- Live chat support.
- High-end security features.
- Value for money.
- 256-bit AES encryption.
- Kill Switch and Split tunneling features available.
Cons
- Not as reliable when it comes to speed efficiency.
- Limited bandwidth.
- Does not unblock Netflix in a few regions.
Pricing Plans:
- 7-day Free Trial: Comes at a mere cost of 0.99$
- 1-month Plan: 10.95$ per month cost.
- 6-months Plan: 8.33$ per month cost.
10. VyprVPN
Owned by the Golden Frog company in Texas, VyprVPN is one of the most secure VPN services you can find online. VyprVPN is an open-source VPN that features high-end security features like Kill Switch and Chameleon VPN protocols.
Key Features:
- Has its server network to ensure maximum privacy.
- Reliable and secure VPN connection.
- Unlimited Streaming.
- Compatible OS: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and Linux.
Pros
- Public Wi-Fi protection.
- Supports Kill Switch.
- Allows you to access restricted content.
- High-end data encryption.
Cons
- The iOS app lacks a few features.
- Does not support the BBC player.
Pricing Plans:
- 1 month: 12.95$ per month cost.
- 1 year: 3.75$ per month cost.
- 2 years: 2.50$ per month cost.
Should You Try a Free VPN for Gaming?
So, now that you finally decided on using a VPN service, the next dilemma that you might have to face is to decide whether you should go for a paid or free VPN service? Tough call, isn’t it? Well, in our recommendation paying an affordable tiny cost that ensures your privacy is worth covering almost everything. The free VPN might only feature a limited array of features, just a basic set of functionalities that might put your online privacy on risk.
Also, to make sure that your investment is worth every penny that you’re spending, you can opt for a VPN service that offers a minimum 30-day free trial period. In this way, you can thoroughly explore the VPN service, all of its features and then make the right decision for yourself.
Is VPN good for gaming?
Using a VPN for gaming is one of the best things to try that can safeguard your online privacy. As soon as you switch to a VPN service, all your data gets encrypted on a secure server to make sure that you stay anonymous while accessing games. One of the essential tasks that a VPN does is by hiding your IP address so that no kinds of virus, malware or DDoS attacks can hit your device.
What VPN is best for gaming?
As you’ve just gone through the list of 9 top VPN for gaming, you can pick any of the VPN mentioned above services to get started. All of these listicles are good VPN for gaming that anonymize the gaming traffic, allow you to play games available in another region while keeping your online privacy intact.
Does a VPN slow down gaming?
Well, this is one of the biggest myths associated with gaming VPNs, most users believe that using a VPN slows down the Internet speed, and hinders your gaming experience. If you want to know the real story, it’s the vice versa. Using a VPN will boost your gameplay, reduce ping times while you’re on a network, and will allow you to make the most of lag-free gaming experience.
Summary: 10 Best VPN for Gaming
Here’s a quick recap of our 10 best VPN for gaming that will allow you to pick the best from the lot.
| S.no. | VPN Service | Best Known for |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Systweak VPN | High-speed servers support Smart DNS feature, anonymous, and secure web browsing. |
| 2 | NordVPN | Supports double protection to cover web traffic with an extra layer of security. |
| 3 | ExpressVPN | Ultra-fast VPN servers for the enhanced gaming experience. |
| 4 | Surfshark | A secure and reliable choice for torrenting and streaming. |
| 5 | Cyberghost | It allows you to create unique dedicated profiles for different activities. |
| 6 | Private Internet Access | Budget-friendly comes with an affordable subscription cost along with a 26-month plan. |
| 7 | Hotspot Shield | Military-grade encryption, unlimited streaming. |
| 8 | IP Vanish | Establishes up to 10 simultaneous connections. |
| 9 | Pure VPN | Smart DNS feature for gaming consoles. |
| 10 | VyprVPN | Has its server networks ensuring maximum privacy. |
Wrap Up: 10 Best Gaming VPNs To Use In 2023 For Windows, Mac, Android & iOS (2023)
So, this wraps up our guide on the best VPN for gaming. You can use any of the tools mentioned above to experience a nuisance-free gaming experience across the globe. And yes, let us know which VPN service you liked the most. Feel free to hit the comments space!
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