TOP 5 VPNs

If you’ve ever screamed at your screen because of lag during a crucial online match, you’re not alone. Multiplayer games depend on speed and timing, and nothing kills the vibe like a high ping. For competitive gamers, even a few milliseconds can make or break a win.

Ping refers to the time it takes for your device to send data to the game server and get a response. High ping means more delay—and in real-time shooters or battle royales, that delay is a disaster. While internet speed helps, sometimes the problem isn’t with your connection but the route your data takes. If you’re also looking to upgrade your gear, check out our guide on the Best Gaming Laptops to pair strong hardware with a faster, smoother connection.

That’s where a VPN can help. A good gaming VPN doesn’t just hide your IP—it can reroute your traffic through faster, more direct paths to game servers, sometimes even bypassing congested or throttled routes your ISP might be forcing you onto.

How VPNs Help Reduce Ping

Think of the internet like a highway. Your data takes a specific route to get to the game server. If there’s a traffic jam, your data slows down. A VPN acts like a toll road or express lane—it finds an alternate route that might be quicker.

Some internet service providers (ISPs) slow down specific kinds of traffic, especially if you’re gaming during peak hours. VPNs can disguise that traffic, making it harder for ISPs to apply those restrictions, which means your game might run smoother.

And with many VPNs offering server locations close to major game server hubs, you might find that using one actually gives you a shorter, more stable route—resulting in lower ping and less lag.

What to Look for in a Gaming VPN

When you’re picking a VPN for gaming, speed should be your first concern. Look for one that offers high-speed servers and low latency, especially in regions where your favorite game servers are hosted.

The number of server locations also matters. A good spread across the globe means you’re more likely to find a server close to your game’s data center. This reduces the travel distance for your data, which can lower ping.

Bonus features like split tunneling (so only your game runs through the VPN), a kill switch for connection drops, and support for consoles or routers can also make a big difference in your overall experience.

Top 5 VPNs for Reducing Ping in Games

NordVPN

NordVPN is a favorite among gamers for its fast and stable connections. It uses a special protocol called NordLynx, which is designed to deliver high speeds without sacrificing security. For many players, it reduces ping and increases consistency.

It has thousands of servers worldwide, so you can connect to one close to your game’s region. This is perfect for playing games like Call of Duty, Valorant, or Apex Legends with better response times.

You can install it on a PC, phone, or even your router, making it a flexible pick no matter how you game.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is known for its blazing-fast speeds and reliable uptime. It’s especially useful if your ISP tends to throttle your gaming traffic. It offers unlimited bandwidth, which means smooth, uninterrupted sessions.

This VPN also has a very easy setup, especially for consoles like PS5 and Xbox, when installed via router. The app is beginner-friendly and lets you quickly switch server locations.

With coverage in 90+ countries, you’re never far from a server, which is crucial when you’re trying to lower ping in a specific region.

Surfshark

Surfshark is a more budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on speed. It offers unlimited device connections, so everyone in your house can use it without slowing each other down.

It supports split tunneling, meaning you can use the VPN just for gaming while keeping other apps running normally. This helps maintain performance and reduce unnecessary traffic load.

Surfshark’s nearby servers perform well for games like PUBG or Fortnite, especially for players looking for stable sessions in competitive zones.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

PIA is perfect for gamers who like to customize their settings. It offers tons of server options and lets you tweak performance to your liking, which can help fine-tune latency based on your game’s region.

With strong speeds and support for advanced setups like port forwarding, it’s great for more tech-savvy users who want full control over their connection.

Its massive server network makes it easy to find a fast server nearby, helping you bypass congestion and lower your in-game ping.

CyberGhost

CyberGhost stands out with its dedicated servers for gaming. That means you don’t have to guess which one’s fastest—it already picks the best for you. Fewer steps, better results.

It has great coverage in the US and Europe, where many multiplayer servers are hosted. This helps with consistent ping times and less jitter during play.

CyberGhost also comes with built-in ad blockers and a clean interface, making it a simple but effective choice for gamers new to VPNs.

Do VPNs Always Reduce Ping?

Not always—but they often help. If your normal internet route is overloaded or blocked by ISP restrictions, a VPN can create a cleaner, shorter path to the game server, leading to smoother performance.

Sometimes, you might see a slight increase in ping, especially if you connect to a faraway VPN server. That’s why it’s important to test different server locations to find the sweet spot.

Even if the ping number isn’t lower, your game might still feel smoother because the connection is more stable and less likely to drop or stutter.

Pricing and Value for Gamers

When picking a VPN for gaming, look beyond just the monthly cost. Many services offer steep discounts if you commit to a year or more. This can bring the monthly cost down significantly.

Most of the VPNs listed here come with a money-back guarantee, so you can try them risk-free. NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN all offer 30-day trials or refund periods.

If you’re gaming on multiple devices or have others in the household, VPNs like Surfshark that allow unlimited connections offer the best value.

Final Thoughts

If lag is messing up your gaming sessions, a VPN might be the secret weapon you’ve been missing. It won’t fix a slow internet connection, but it can reduce ping and improve stability by rerouting your traffic more efficiently.

From powerhouse picks like NordVPN and ExpressVPN to budget-friendly but speedy options like Surfshark, there’s something for every type of gamer. Each of these VPNs offers the features that matter most—speed, stability, and worldwide servers.

The key is to test and see what works best for your setup and your favorite games. Once you find the right fit, you might wonder how you ever gamed without one.

FAQs

Can a VPN really reduce ping in games?

Yes, in many cases it can. If your ISP routes traffic poorly or throttles gaming traffic, a VPN can provide a cleaner, faster path. This can result in better ping and smoother gameplay.

It’s not a magic fix, though. If your base connection is weak or unstable, a VPN won’t make up for it. But in many real-world cases, it noticeably improves connection consistency.

Gamers often find that VPNs help the most during peak internet hours, when ISPs are known to slow traffic. That’s when rerouting with a VPN makes a real difference.

Which VPN is best for console gaming (PS5, Xbox)?

For consoles, look for VPNs that support router setup, like ExpressVPN or CyberGhost. This way, all your devices—console included—connect through the VPN without needing separate apps.

Setting it up on your router might take a few extra steps, but it’s worth it. Once done, your PS5 or Xbox will have access to the same speed-boosting and lag-reducing benefits as your PC.

Some VPNs also offer pre-configured routers if you’re not into the technical setup yourself, making it even easier to get started.

Is using a VPN for gaming legal and safe?

Yes, using a VPN for gaming is perfectly legal in most countries. It’s a smart way to improve privacy, avoid throttling, and prevent DDoS attacks during competitive matches.

Just be aware of game rules—some platforms don’t like users jumping regions to get easier matches or access restricted content. Use VPNs responsibly and you won’t run into issues.

When used correctly, a VPN enhances both your security and performance, making it a smart add-on for serious and casual gamers alike.