The Best Gaming VPNs of 2024: Enhance Your Gaming Experience
Are you an avid gamer looking to level up your gaming experience? Look no further than Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). While most VPNs aren’t marketed specifically for gamers, the top VPN services offer a range of benefits tailored to gamers at affordable prices. These benefits include rapid server speeds, multiple location options, streaming support, IP address masking, and enhanced security features.
Why Use a VPN for Gaming?
Using a VPN for gaming not only enhances your security and privacy but also helps in avoiding lags and ping issues. Additionally, you can use a VPN to hide your location from other players, protecting yourself from potential threats like denial-of-service attacks or stream sniping.
The Top Gaming VPNs for 2024
After thorough testing and analysis by the ZDNET team, here are the best VPNs for gaming in 2024:
ExpressVPN
Best gaming VPN overall
ExpressVPN offers top-tier speed and stability with minimal speed loss, making it ideal for intense gaming sessions. It features a vast server network and exceptional performance, making it the top choice for gamers.
NordVPN
Best gaming VPN for speed
NordVPN is known for its top-tier speed and reliability, offering fast connections and solid ping speeds. With a wide server network, it’s a great choice for gamers looking for a blend of performance and affordability.
Surfshark
Best gaming VPN for value
Surfshark offers affordable pricing and unlimited connections, making it a great value for gamers. While its speed may not be the fastest, it provides solid service at an attractive price point.
IPVanish
Best gaming VPN for configuration
IPVanish offers extensive customization options, making it ideal for gamers looking to tailor their VPN experience. While its speed may lag behind competitors, its affordability and flexibility in configurations make it a solid choice for gaming enthusiasts.
CyberGhost
Best gaming VPN for specialist servers
CyberGhost offers specialized servers for gaming, designed to minimize lag and optimize performance. With affordable pricing and solid security features, it’s a great choice for gamers seeking a tailored gaming experience.
How to Use a VPN for Gaming
Using a VPN for gaming is simple and can enhance your gaming experience. Follow these steps to set up a VPN for PC or console gaming:
1. Download your preferred VPN software on your device.
2. Install and run the VPN software on your device.
3. Sign in using your VPN account credentials or authorization code.
4. Select the server location you prefer and customize any settings.
5. Activate your VPN connection and start gaming with enhanced security and privacy.
For gaming consoles, consider using a VPN-enabled router for blanket coverage across all devices or configuring your existing router to work with your VPN.
Choosing the Right Gaming VPN
When selecting a gaming VPN, consider factors like price, simultaneous connections, streaming support, gaming servers, usage length, and app compatibility. Test different VPNs with free trials to find the one that suits your gaming needs best.
Best Free or Budget VPNs for Gaming
1. Surfshark: Great value at an affordable price point with no data throttling.
2. Windscribe Free Plan: Offers decent server choice and speed for limited data usage.
VPN Server Selection for Gaming
Choose a server that provides the best speeds and latency for your gaming experience. Consider using the VPN’s recommended “smart” or automatic connection feature for optimal performance.
VPN Protocols for Gaming
Wireguard is the recommended protocol for gaming VPNs due to its speed and strong encryption. Ensure your VPN supports this protocol for the best gaming experience.
Enhance your gaming experience with a top-tier VPN tailored for gamers. Protect your privacy, secure your connection, and level up your gaming sessions with the best gaming VPNs of 2024.