Virtual private networks (VPNs) are used for various purposes, like strengthening online privacy and streaming. While using a VPN, apps and websites don’t see your actual IP address, instead viewing the location of the server you’re connected to. For instance, you may be in New York City, but with a VPN on a London server, apps and websites see your traffic as coming from the UK. A virtual private network could improve your gaming experience by lowering your ping (latency) for more responsive online play, mask your IP address and prevent throttling. But there are downsides to using a VPN for gaming — notably, slower connection speeds and possible terms of service (ToS) violations.
Here at CNET, we’ve spent years meticulously testing VPNs to cut through the marketing braggadocio and help you pick the best software for your needs. While curating the top VPNs, we mainly considered PC gaming — on Windows, Linux, and MacOS. However, most VPN providers offer Android and iOS apps for mobile gaming. You’ll even find apps for streaming boxes, including Android TV, the Amazon Firestick and Apple TV. Consoles like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch typically don’t have their own VPN apps — instead, you’ll generally need to configure your router for a whole-home VPN or use a host PC. Whether you want to reduce ping while connected to a game server, boost online protection or circumvent throttling limits, a virtual private network can take your game to the next level. But you’ll need to check specific game’s terms of service to ensure you’re not violating subscriber agreements. Let’s dive into the best VPNs for gaming so you can keep playing your favorite titles.
What is the best VPN for gaming right now?
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for gaming right now, thanks to its impressive speeds, excellent privacy protections and expansive global network of servers. NordVPN is another top VPN for gaming because it’s one of the most reliable VPNs…
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