Does VPN reduce Ping? 8 VPNs That Can Reduce Ping in Games
Routing traffic through VPN can boost connection, thus reducing ping
13 min. read
Updated on
Share this article
This article is translated in
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial team Read more
Key notes
- High ping is devastating in multiplayer mode, especially when you have to be quick on your feet.
- Many factors contribute to high ping issues, like an unreliable Internet connection, faulty Wi-Fi, etc.
- Find out how a VPN could lower your ping and create a better gaming experience.
Having a strong and stable internet connection while playing games is essential, we all know that. But does a VPN help with the ping?
As someone who has been dealing with high ping in various games, we know how incredibly frustrating it is to see your teammates freezing or getting kicked out of a match, so we have a few tricks up my sleeve I want to share with you.
When it comes to the profile of VPN users, there is no wonder that we can notice a trend, particularly among the Millennial generation.
As Surfshark reveals, especially those aged 25 to 34 are the primary users of VPNs, with about one-fifth of them reported as users. However, note that these figures aren’t limited to gaming contexts only but this data encompasses all VPN applications. Regular VPN use varies, with around 36% using it daily and 41% weekly.
But how does it work? The signal goes through multiple servers, right? Well, in some cases, that can be a good thing!
Why use a gaming VPN to lower ping?
Using a VPN to connect to a server that’s closer to your game server location can significantly reduce ping and boost response rates in games. The more servers your VPN offers, the lower the chance of connecting to an overpopulated server.
Also, if you want to play an online game with a friend from another country or host a game server, you may have to choose servers from another region. In such cases, make sure to check our guide on how to lower ping when playing in other regions.
A VPN can remove ISP-imposed restrictions such as bandwidth usage limits. It conceals your traffic data so you can enjoy fast connections all the time.
We tested these VPN solutions with a variety of games on multiple platforms, such as PCs, mobile devices, and gaming consoles.
One thing that seems to cause a lot of debate is whether or not VPNs slow down gaming. Rest assured that performance-oriented VPNs that are truly good for gaming also have advanced features that let you prioritize your traffic toward gaming, thus lowering your ping a little more and increasing overall performance.
Since your location and ISP are important factors in achieving lower ping, you must test out the best VPN for your gaming sessions.
So, stick around, and let’s find some great VPNs to fix that annoying lag issue once and for all!
What are the best low-ping VPNs for gamers?
| Product | Features | Our Rating | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Internet Access | ● Multiple VPN gateways and unlimited bandwidth ● Integrated ads, trackers, and malware blocker ● Easy-to-use interface with instant setup | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ➡️ Get It Now |
| NordVPN | ● WireGuard protocol for top speeds ● Over 5400 servers in 58 countries ● Access to the closest VPN server via Quick Connect | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ➡️ Get It Now |
| ExpressVPN | ● Accelerated speed on VPN activity ● No censorship of content from other regions ● No activity logs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ➡️ Get It Now |
| Surfshark VPN | ● Split tunneling ● Advanced killswitch ● Unlimited connections | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ➡️ Get It Now |
| Atlas VPN | ● Data breach monitor ● Private DNS ● Automatic optimal location detection | ⭐⭐⭐ | ➡️ Get It Now |
Private Internet Access – Best ping reducer VPN on the market
Using a VPN connection can decrease latency instances especially if you go for a gaming-optimized VPN client such as Private Internet Access.
It’s a leading-industry VPN software solution that is not only committed to protecting your privacy but also delivers top speeds thanks to its worldwide VPN network.
Speaking of the VPN Tunnel Network, you can choose from 3278 VPN and Proxy servers spread across 45 countries.
You will benefit from enhanced security without sacrificing performance, plus you can enjoy uncensored access to otherwise geolocation-restricted content.
If, for whatever reason you do experience latencies during gameplay, the PIA app even allows you to alternate server gateways and swap ports and protocols.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- PPTP, OpenVPN, and L2TP/IPSec technologies
- Tunneling technology (worldwide VPN Tunnel Network)
- Can protect up to 10 devices simultaneously
- Integrated ads, trackers, and malware blocker
- Multiple VPN gateways and unlimited bandwidth
- Easy-to-use interface with instant setup
- No traffic logs and no data tracking
Private Internet Access
Eager to lower your ping? There’s nothing better than optimized for gameplay and risk-free PIA VPN.NordVPN – The fastest VPN connection
Here we have one of the best overall VPNs on the market thanks to the next-generation encryption with which it protects your connectivity and online activity, allowing you to make bank transfers or online purchases safely.
As for what you do while you’re connected to NordVPN, that is purely your own business, since the company provides and guarantees a no-log policy where they don’t track, collect, or share your private data.
Of course, with so much security under its belt, one would expect the connectivity to be slowed down, but in the case of NordVPN, that is certainly not the case, as it provides you with almost unhindered Internet speeds without any throttling. However, don’t hesitate to do your part as well and choose the best NordVPN gaming settings.
NordVPN also provides you with quick access to the closest VPN server via Quick Connect, allowing you to stay secure without wasting time browsing through all of its servers.
Speaking of which, NordVPN has over 5400 servers in 58 different countries around the world, so it doesn’t matter where you are or what kind of content you want to watch, geo-blocking will not be an issue.
Other key features of NordVPN include:
- WireGuard protocol for top speeds
- No logs policy
- Live chat customer support
It is currently available on Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS, and you can connect up to 6 devices on a single account, including smart TVs and routers.
NordVPN
If improving ping in games is what you are after, NordVPN will provide you with everything you need.ExpressVPN – Lightning-fast servers worldwide
You can secure your online activity through ExpressVPN very easily, using optimized tunneling services for a reduced online presence.
Access to such software is authorized from any geographical area, allowing you to choose any network regardless of the LAN in which you are located. Moreover, you can hide your IP address or encrypt your network with just a few clicks, so that no one can discover your activity.
ExpressVPN can also help you with low ping issues. This solid threat protector can offer lighting speed and unlimited bandwidth to satisfy your gaming expectations.
Another great feature you can benefit from is content without border limitations. Regardless of the internet content origin, you can access it and navigate it without restrictions.
The key features of ExpressVPN are as follows:
- Connection security with 256-bit AES, DNS/IPv6 leak protection
- Accelerated speed on VPN activity
- No censorship of content from other regions.
- Anonymous browsing and secured downloading
- No activity logs from others
This top-rated VPN software can be downloaded on multiple devices and platforms, like Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android.
ExpressVPN
Choose your expressway to a safe online activity with ExpressVPN now, and enjoy qualitative protection anywhere in the world.Surfshark VPN – Best for privacy security
When it comes to providing the best encryption technologies that are available, Surfshark comes out as a winner. You’ll even find that there’s a feature available that helps stop viruses from entering your device.
There are several apps available for different platforms, which should allow you to easily get connected.
You can also use the service with unlimited devices. Beginners and veterans of VPN use will appreciate the intuitive navigation system that Surfshark provides.
Surfshark does have a few cons, which can exist when you are a relative newcomer. While it does offer over 800 servers worldwide, this is not as many as some of the other VPN providers.
One area where the VPN outpaces other services is its speed. If you require a fast connection, Surfshark will be the best choice.
Other key features of Surfshark include:
- Split tunneling
- Advanced killswitch
- Intuitive and responsive UI
- Unlimited connections
You have nothing to lose by trying this VPN as they also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. And if you’d like more options, rest assured that this list including the best VPNs for mobile data is ideal to protect your privacy.
Surfshark VPN
Surfshark lets you create multi-hop connections that allow you to connect through multiple servers across different countries.Atlas VPN – Best for unrestricted content
Atlas VPN is a reliable and performance-focused VPN service that combines multiple features and technologies meant to provide high-speed rates and keep your data secure.
This VPN can help you reduce ping and improve gaming performance for many different games as it offers access to over 750 ultra-fast servers around the globe.
It also has a built-in split tunneling feature that you can use to prioritize your VPN traffic toward your gaming and use your local traffic for other endeavors, thus reducing ping rates.
More specifically, it covers 42 key locations on all continents. The premium version adds an extra layer of security, allowing users to connect to servers protected with SafeSwap or MultiHop technologies.
These ensure that you stay completely anonymous, removing the risk of getting tracked down and restricted by your ISP.
Not only that but concealing your identity and activity also protects you against maliciously intended gamers that may want to steal your data.
The VPN also automatically blocks ads and websites that have been blacklisted and are known to host malicious content.
Atlas VPN offers dedicated applications for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, and Fire TV Stick. With one account, you can connect to an unlimited number of devices and enjoy fast-paced connections.
Other key features of AtlasVPN include:
- Data breach monitor
- Private DNS
- Automatic optimal location detection
AtlasVPN has a free version that imposes some limits on the server locations you can pick. Its premium version offers full, unrestricted access to all the above-mentioned features. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the service.
Atlas VPN
Get access to hundreds of worldwide servers and reduce your ping rates for seamless gaming.CyberGhost VPN – Best anonymity protection
Overall, CyberGhost is one of the best, when it comes to VPN to lower game ping. Their servers have great speed, high-end encryption technologies, and ideal performance.
The company also offers various other features that aren’t commonly found in VPN providers. These extra features include antiviruses and advertisement-blocking services.
Not to mention that CyberGhost offers free proxy services. They even have a free, but restricted edition for their VPN services.
There are only a few cons of CyberGhost. For one, it might be a little overwhelming for new users to navigate the somewhat crowded interface.
They also do not have as many locations and servers as other big-name companies out there.
Other key features of CyberGhost VPN include:
- High compatibility with many platforms including gaming consoles
- Public Wi-Fi protection
- Automatic kill switch
- Unlimited bandwidth
Nevertheless, if you are looking for a well-rounded VPN provider that offers everything you need, then CyberGhost is for you.
CyberGhost
CyberGhost’s got 256-bit AES encryption, over 5600 servers worldwide, great price plans, and excellent support.VyprVPN – Best known for the highest privacy
VyprVPN is designed to deliver fast speeds with the highest level of security on over 70 global server locations and over 200,000 IP addresses.
The tool offers benefits such as increased privacy and security, access to content (bypassing restrictive censorship), and an unrestricted online experience using Chameleon technology.
Vypyr VPN implements top-notch technologies to provide the world’s fastest VPN network. It is specifically designed and optimized for speed.
This means that you will experience fewer delays, minimize latency, and get a faster ping.
Not only that, but it will offer you access to multiple games by surpassing geo-restrictions with its worldwide fast server base.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- Anti-DDoS protection (you can play without worrying about a DDoS attack)
- Supports all devices and platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, TV, router
- Several encryption protocols and VyprDNS exclusively for Vypr users
- NAT firewall as an additional layer of security for your connection
- 24/7 technical support via email or live chat
VyprVPN is available under several subscription plans, all of which include a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it out without financial commitment.
VyprVPN
Get your security protected by VyprVPN with industrial-strength encryption and well-chosen protocols.Bitdefender VPN – Best for strong encryption
Brought on the market by the creators of the renowned antivirus with the same name, Bitdefender VPN is yet another top choice to reduce ping and boost speed rates in your games.
This VPN ensures that you can enjoy your games on the go without any worries as it uses advanced technologies to encrypt and protect your devices even when using public Wi-Fi.
Bitdefender VPN can help boost performance rates with the help of its split tunneling feature. This type of feature lets you handpick the apps that you want to use the VPN traffic and the ones you want to connect to locally.
This lets you pick the most optimal location for gaming and only use the VPN traffic for that which can significantly boost speed rates.
The user interface is minimal and intuitive, giving users quick access to all the features provided by the VPN.
It is a reliable and lightweight VPN solution that will no doubt improve your gaming experience.
Here are its main features:
- Wi-Fi connection to any available hotspot
- Unlimited traffic
- Unlocking all types of content (media, video, and others from around the world)
- Extended coverage using multiple virtual locations
Bitdefender VPN has both free and paid versions. The free version is of course a little limited, but you can use it to try it out and see how it works for your needs.
Note: Bitdefender VPN installs alongside your Bitdefender security solution.
Bitdefender VPN
Bitdefender VPN encrypts all incoming and outgoing traffic on your PC, Mac, or mobile devices.As you see, a VPN can certainly decrease the ping you have in your online games. VPN packets tend to take a more direct route than your normal ISP packet.
Hence, our recommendations, especially the top ones, are VPNs with vast networks of servers all around the world so you can pick the one that suits you best and apply these tips on how to fix high ping with a VPN optimized for gaming.
We’ve also heard some rumors that using a VPN while playing a game can cause other players to lag. If you’re worried about this aspect as well, make sure to check our dedicated article. We even have a guide for those who want to curb packet loss and improve their ping values without too much effort.
That being said, VPNs can only help ping when it’s caused by connection problems. High ping can also be a symptom of system problems. It’s best you monitor PC performance with dedicated software.
Of course, we would love to hear which did you chose and which works the best for you in the comments below.
