The thought of using a VPN for PC gaming makes us wonder; why we should use a tool that is known to slow down speed -an exact opposite of what a gamer seeks. Why should we use it, or is there any VPN service that isn’t a speed eater?
Since you are here, you have probably encountered one of many hurdles in the gaming realm; such as geographical limitations or foul play – that can be stopped by using a VPN. Gaming is a lot of entertainment, but restrictions can instantly ruin it outside of your control.
Outside of your control, that’s only until you install a VPN.
If you’re a competitive gamer, using a VPN can give you early access to new online titles; while protecting you from malicious attacks from enemies. But getting the right VPN service for PC gaming can be very challenging – you can’t risk average speeds, inadequate servers, or unstable support.
We are here to help you out — after undertaking in-depth research and many hours of testing; we give you the five absolute best VPN for PC gaming. Check them out below, test, and find the right VPN for your wants.
Read more: Online Gaming Security: Are You Up to Speed in 2020
The Best VPNs for PC Gaming
1. NordVPN
- Double encryption for added security
- Automatic kill switch
- A variety of platform support
- Six simultaneous connections
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- 3-Day free trial
2. ExpressVPN
- Unlimited Bandwidth with Ultra Speed
- Provides all VPN protocols OpenVPN (TCP, UDP), L2TP-IPsec, SSTP, and PPTP
- Dedicated VPN Apps for Android & iOS
- High-End Security with OpenVPN 256-bits
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- 3 simultaneous connections
3. Surfshark
- AES 256-Bit Network Encryption
- Chrome Extension Available
- Kill-Switch functionality
- A variety of platform support
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
4. CyberGhost
- Uses AES 256 Encryption
- Supports OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and PPTP
- DNS & IP Leak Protection
- Uses 2048 Key & MD5 Authentication
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- Up to 7 Simultaneous Connections
5. Private Internet Access
- Offers all Protocols PPTP, OpenVPN and L2TP/IPSec including SOCKS5 Proxy
- IPv6 Leak Protection & DNS Leak Protection
- Kill-Switch functionality
- Encrypted Wi-Fi Protection
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- 10 simultaneous connections
What You Should Look for in a VPN for PC Gaming
The potential advantages of a VPN for PC gaming are huge. One common feature is circumventing territorial limitations — forced by either the game itself or your government.
Gamers come from all around the globe; but sadly, numerous friends online have to deal with censored or downright forbidden games because of their location. Take Iran as an example — Battlefield 3 and ARMA 3 were both unavailable in the region due to graphic violence and brutality. The list goes on. Saudi Arabia, China, Malaysia, Thailand, and several other countries have outlawed games like Red Dead Redemption, Grand Theft Auto, and several shooters due to political or destructive content.
With a VPN, you can still play otherwise-banned games, both online and yourself. By connecting to a server in a region that doesn’t have these limitations, you efficiently avoid restriction and open up a whole new realm of gaming possibilities.
VPNs can also help you get early access to new games. This new MMO you have been drooling over finally drops a release date — but it is going to be available in Japan first, hours before any other servers go live. If you want to be ahead of the pack, all you need is a Japanese IP address, and you’re ready to get the ball rolling.
Accessibility aside, VPNs are most valuable when it comes to protection.
A great deal of severe and competitive gaming is online nowadays — and with that comes the danger of hackers. It is incredibly dangerous to have your real IP and other sensitive personal info on display publicly. With a VPN, you can keep all of it sneaked behind a securely encrypted connection.
Speaking of internet connections, a VPN will keep you protected from DDoS attacks, which has irked competitive online gaming for a long time. Semi-professional and professional teams in CS: GO, and frustrated fans of opposing teams often target dota 2, but this risk isn’t confined to the pro scene. If you are an enthusiastic player of competitive games like these and several others (including League of Legends, Heroes of the Storm, Overwatch, Smite), you know how sore and petty losers can get. Using a VPN will shield you from possible DDoS attacks or other dangerous activities directed towards you.
Things You Need From the Best VPN for PC Gaming
With that said, here’s what you need from the perfect VPN for PC gaming:
- Speed. If your connection speed takes a notable hit, your VPN will be almost useless for gaming. Make sure your choices have excellent and steady speeds so you can keep owning in-game.
- Choice of servers. Typically, the more servers you have at your disposal, the better. But it is not just about diversity — you want your VPN’s network to be optimized, fast, and well-maintained with guaranteed uptime.
- Easy interface. Not everybody is a tech guru, and even the advanced user wants a smooth, intuitive user experience. Look for a VPN that is not only capable but also invested in readiness of use.
- Responsive customer support. You might run into issues with your VPN — everyone does. Faster customer support will put you back on track in no time. Choose a VPN that knows its stuff, and also knows how to solve problems quickly.
It may feel like an endless quest to find the ideal VPN with so much to look for. We have the walkthrough right here — take a look at our top VPN picks for PC gaming.
Can I get a Free VPN for PC Gaming
You can get free VPNs, but we don’t recommend them for PC gaming. This is because they’re often far too sluggish, or have data caps imposed (and in some cases, both). Understandably, you might not want to incur the extra cost, but if you’re going to do gaming online, the only choice is a paid VPN.
