Gamers often use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for several reasons. The right VPN can reduce the latency and ping while enabling a smoother online multiplayer experience. Breaking geographical boundaries and providing enhanced security, VPN lets the games explore the newest ventures in the gaming world.
On top of it, they are excellent for playing securely under public wifi, which is not so friendly for gamers regarding security. It is halfway through 2023, which means few more time left for 2024, so we will need the VPNs that work with the tech available and remain updated for the coming one. Fortunately, we have gathered the list of the top 10 VPNs that have been making the mark for gamers worldwide while meeting this condition. Let’s introduce you to our top 3 before diving down into the entire list.
Online Gaming with VPNs: Is It a Game-Changer?
Gaming in the online industry has surged exponentially, drawing attention from enthusiastic players and cyber miscreants. Thanks to the latest technology that has offered us the best internet connection and the gadgets that enrich the gameplay experience.
However, the question that looms large in the minds of the gaming community is whether we should use VPN for gaming. We have provided an answer to this question by weighing its good and bad sides so that you can make the right choice.
Top 3 VPNs for Gaming In 2023 – 2024 To Check Out Today
Regarding security and providing gamers with all the features, they have handy, Nord VPN, Express VPN, and Proton VPN stand out from the rest. As the digital curtain rises in 2023, these VPNs are poised to elevate your gaming experience with security, speed, and seamless connectivity. For playing games online, the best VPN are Surfshark, Nord, and HotShield. VPN is the best practise to avoid DDoS attacks while playing games.
Surfshark VPN for Gaming
Surfshark VPN is the best VPN for Gaming. If you are unfamiliar with the VPN world, you may already have used the Surfshark VPN. It is an exceptional tool offering a Secure Gaming VPN, providing top-notch protection to all platforms from hackers.Â
This VPN solution ensures that your internet service provider (ISP) slowdowns will not affect your gaming experience, giving you the best quality gaming experience possible.
It also boasts advanced features like blocking trackers, ads, malware, and phishing attacks, thus providing an added layer of security. You can customize your VPN connection with split tunneling to match your specific needs. You can try it free for 30 days to see how it works and experience the benefits of this excellent VPN solution.
Nord VPN
When it comes to online gaming, the security of your connection is of utmost importance. This is where NordVPN comes into play. It offers optimized gaming servers designed to create a safe and secure gaming environment.
NordVPN is the best choice for 2023 because it is located in Panama, outside the Five Eyes jurisdiction, providing an added layer of privacy. It also means that you can explore the gaming world with it without being worried about getting caught by any other legal problems.
The Nordlynx VPN protocol is also an excellent option for those looking to combine speed with security. With over 5,100 servers in 60 countries, the next-generation encryption technology is a reliable choice for privacy and security. Additionally, obfuscated servers add another level of privacy to keep your online activities confidential.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN ensures your security is of utmost importance while you are enjoying your online gaming experience. 256-bit encryption keeps your personal information and data safe and secure.
The best thing about using ExpressVPN is that it lets you avoid overcrowded and busy gaming servers, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted gaming experience. Its ability to connect up to five devices simultaneously allows multiple users to enjoy the same secure gaming experience, so now you can bring your friends to the game party too.
Also, ExpressVPN is compatible with all major platforms and routers, making it accessible to a wide range of users. And if for any reason you are not satisfied with the service, it gives you a 30-day money-back guarantee, which you can take advantage of at any time.
Proton VPN
When you are looking for a free VPN that won’t hold you back while gaming, Proton VPN is the choice to rely on! You can game to your heart’s content with unlimited data without worrying about hitting a data cap.
Sure, the free plan only includes servers in the US, the Netherlands, and Japan, but there are still plenty of options. However, you can always upgrade to premium with the 30-day money-back guarantee. Plus, with the VPN Accelerator feature, you can boost your speeds even when connecting to a far away server.
Proton VPN keeps your security always on top. With perfect forward secrecy, full-disk encryption, and full leak protection, you can rest assured that your data is safe and secure. Proton VPN is completely open-source, so anyone can inspect its code for security vulnerabilities.
If you want even more features, Proton VPN’s premium plans are worth checking out. With access to over 2,900 servers across 65+ countries, 10 simultaneous device connections, and NetShield (an excellent ad blocker), you’ll have everything you need to take your gaming (and browsing) to the next level.
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access is the one VPN that certainly has risen to the top list in 2023 among all the VPNS. Private Internet Access is a reliable and secure VPN service that you can count on. Access to servers in 78 countries allows you to enjoy fast ping times and lag-free browsing.
Moreover, thousands of secure IP addresses are available, ensuring your anonymity and privacy online. You can connect up to 10 devices with one license, making it an ideal choice for families or small businesses.
And if you’re not completely satisfied, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee. So why wait? You can start using the Private Internet Access VPN today and enjoy the freedom of knowing your online activities are safe and secure.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost is an excellent solution for ensuring secure gaming experiences by preventing Man in the Middle attacks. With unlimited speed and data, it is ideal for online gamers who require fast and reliable connections. On top of it, the strict no-log policy and location outside the 5 Eyes region provide added peace of mind for users concerned about privacy and security. Wait, that’s not it.
CyberGhost offers IP addresses from over 90 countries, allowing users to choose the country they want to appear from. With a 45-day risk-free trial, users can try it out and see the benefits for themselves.
hide.me
In terms of the extra features, there are probably no VPN services that can beat hide.me. So, if you are a professional gamer looking for fast-paced gaming needs, then hide. me’s free plan might just be what you’re looking for!
But what really sets hide.me apart is its top-notch security features. Like the best VPNs out there, it uses perfect forward secrecy and RAM-only servers to keep your data secure. Plus, with full leak protection, anti-DDoS protection, and a kill switch on its iOS app, you can play games with peace of mind. And let’s not forget about speed! In our tests, hide.me delivered some impressive speeds, with low ping times most of the time.
With access to servers in over 5 different countries, including the US, Canada, the Netherlands, and Germany, you’re sure to find a server that works for you. All in all, hide.me’s plans are a great value, starting at just $3 / month. Plus, with a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it out risk-free!
Private VPN
Private VPN is the way to go, with a wide selection of servers to choose from, so you can easily avoid overcrowded gaming servers. This ensures that you have a seamless gaming experience without any lag or interruptions. Also, it helps secure your connection when you are using public wifi and hotspots, securing you from hackers and cybercriminals.
Private VPN also provides secure servers with 2048-bit encryption, which makes it virtually impossible for anyone to intercept or steal your data. This level of encryption is considered to be military-grade, so you can rest assured that your online activities remain private and secure.
In addition, private VPN has got you covered whether you are using a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Also, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you are unsatisfied with the service, you can get a full refund within 30 days of signing up.
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield’s free plan is the perfect choice for those of you who like to game casually. With unlimited bandwidth, you can play for hours without worrying about running out of data. However, it sometimes gives 2 Mbps on the free plan, but it’s perfect for games that aren’t too graphically intensive.
Accessing server locations in the US, UK, and Singapore means you can connect to a server location in Europe, America, and Asia and get good speeds. Hotspot Shield also comes with essential security features, such as anti-DDoS protection and split-tunneling, so you can only use the VPN for your games.
Advantages of Using VPNs with Online Gaming
1. Increased Security and Privacy
Online gaming is no stranger to security vulnerabilities, from hacking attempts to worrisome DDoS onslaughts. A VPN shines here, casting an encrypted veil over your online activity and effectively cloaking your IP address from potential aggressors. Surfshark VPN can be one of the safest choices when it comes to online security and privacy.
2. No More DDoS Nightmares
DDoS attacks can cripple your gaming experience, bombarding your network with overwhelming traffic. VPNs act as guardians, securely obfuscating your original IP and routing traffic, keeping such disruptions at bay.
3. Stay Safe on Public Networks
While public networks offer convenience, they also expose you to lurking hackers. VPNs have become indispensable here, encrypting your data and making eavesdropping a challenge for snoopers.
4. Forget About Bandwidth Throttling
ISP-induced bandwidth restrictions can be a party pooper, particularly during intense gaming or streaming sessions. With a VPN’s encrypted tunnel, these throttles become history as your online actions remain hidden from your ISP’s prying eyes.
5. Play Online from Any Region
Geographical game restrictions can be frustrating. VPNs, however, can be your passport to global gaming, helping bypass such region-centric barriers with ease.
6. Enjoy New Releases Earlier
VPNs offer the unique advantage of accessing game releases that might debut in one region earlier than others. Stay ahead of the pack by diving into new releases before they become mainstream in your locality.
7. Play Banned Games
Certain titles may face bans in specific geographies. VPNs can be the key to unlocking such titles, allowing players to experience games that might otherwise remain out of reach.
8. Reduce Lag and Ping Times
Interestingly, while VPNs might be perceived to burden your connection, they can sometimes optimize it, leading to smoother gameplay with reduced lag and more consistent ping times.
Disadvantages of Using VPNs with Gaming
1. The Issue of Legality
Gamers must remain aware of regional laws regarding VPN usage. While most countries permit VPNs for gaming, a few deem it illegal.
2. Activity Monitoring and Data Logging
Not all VPNs are champions of privacy. Some might log user activities, potentially compromising user privacy. Always opt for services that respect your anonymity.
3. Slower Connection Speeds and Lag
Certain VPNs can sometimes act as bottlenecks, reducing your connection speed and potentially hampering the gaming experience.
4. Disconnects and Packet Loss
Few experiences can be as frustrating as sudden VPN disconnections mid-game. It’s imperative to zero in on VPNs known for their steadfast reliability.
5. Confusing to Configure
Not everyone is tech-savvy. A VPN with an intuitive design and robust customer support can be invaluable, especially for those not intimately familiar with VPN intricacies.
6. Incompatibility with Gaming Devices
Whether you’re on a console, PC, or mobile, ensure your VPN plays well with your gaming apparatus of choice.
Final Take
Using VPNs with online gaming can be strategic, promising many benefits, from enhanced security to gaming without boundaries. Yet, potential pitfalls like speed reductions and legalities require attention. As always, the secret lies in choosing a reputed VPN, ensuring compatibility, and monitoring regional regulations. With the right VPN, gaming can be a more immersive, secure, and global experience.
While the free plan doesn’t include the VPN’s Gaming Mode, which comes with gaming-optimized servers for popular games like Roblox and Fortnite, upgrading to the paid plan adds these features and more. Plus, with prices starting at just $3 per month, you can enjoy all of these benefits with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
