5 Best PlayStation VPNs in 2024: Play on PS5 & PS4 Lag Free
Reading time: 22 min
Updated on October 15, 2024
-
![Lucca RF]()
-
![Justyn Newman]()
Fact-Checked by Justyn Newman Lead Cybersecurity Editor
Lag spikes and DDoS attacks can ruin your gaming experience on PlayStation. Many VPNs promise protection but increase latency to the point where games get unplayable. It’s difficult to find VPNs that offer DDoS protection for secure gaming without sacrificing performance.
While PlayStation doesn’t support VPN apps, you can indirectly use a VPN on your console. For instance, you can install a VPN on your router to encrypt your internet connection, or use a VPN app on your PC or mobile and share the connection with your console via a hotspot.
After thorough testing, I found ExpressVPN to be the best VPN for PlayStation. It offers solid gaming performance and has a dedicated router app. You can test ExpressVPN out for yourself risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee — if you don’t like it, you can easily get a full refund. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Quick Guide: Best VPNs for PlayStation in 2024
- ExpressVPN — Best overall VPN for PlayStation, offering blazing-fast speeds, thorough DDoS protection, and throttle-free gaming on restricted networks.
- CyberGhost — Specialized gaming servers ensure smooth, low-latency gaming, but it doesn’t have these servers on its Mac and mobile apps.
- Private Internet Access — Extensive global network lets you connect close to game servers for smoother connections, but it doesn’t have gaming-optimized servers.
- NordVPN — Meshnet creates a virtual LAN-like network for you and your friends to play online games, but its double VPN servers aren’t suitable for gaming.
- Surfshark — Nexus auto-switches servers to prevent server disruptions that impact gameplay, but its distant servers can significantly slow down speeds.
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
The Best VPNs for PlayStation (Tested in 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Best Overall VPN for PlayStation With a Dedicated Router App and Blazing-Fast Speeds
Key Features:
- Has 3,000+ servers in 105 countries so you’ll always find a server close to the game server
- Provides lightning-fast speeds and low latency for lag-free gaming
- Protects against DDoS attacks with IP masking, a kill switch, DNS and IP leak protection, and AES 256-bit encryption
- Dedicated router app lets you use it on your PlayStation, and supports 8 simultaneous device connections
- Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN is my #1 pick to use on PlayStations and other consoles. It’s one of the few VPNs with a router app, so you can use the VPN on all your household devices even if they don’t natively support VPNs.
Setting up a VPN on your PlayStation is straightforward with ExpressVPN’s router app, which works on various Asus, Linksys, and Netgear routers. Doing this will encrypt your entire home WiFi network, and you can protect all your devices even if they don’t natively support VPN apps.
I tested ExpressVPN’s nearby and distant servers, and my connections never dropped below 6% from baseline levels. Even when I connected to a US server over 7,000 miles away, I got a decent ping of 79ms while playing Counter-Strike with my friends.
To guard against DDoS attacks, ExpressVPN masks your IP address so that your opponents can’t overwhelm your connection with an attack, causing lag spikes or connection instability. It also protects your gaming sessions with:
- Military-grade encryption — uses a 256-bit secret key to hide your online activities from third parties and prevent potential throttling, especially on restricted networks.
- DNS and IP leak protection — ensures your IP address and online activities don’t leak outside the VPN tunnel, preventing possible DDoS attacks while gaming.
- Kill switch — cuts off your internet if, though unlikely, the VPN connection ever drops so that your IP address never gets exposed to a DDoS attack during your gaming session.
- TrustedServer technology — protects your privacy since ExpressVPN uses RAM-only servers that can’t store your data on disks.
A minor downside to ExpressVPN is it’s relatively more expensive than the competition. However, ExpressVPN offers the best all-around performance for PlayStation gaming in terms of speed, latency, server coverage, and DDoS protection.
I recommend ExpressVPN’s 2-year + 4 months free plan as it offers a % discount. You can test ExpressVPN out for yourself and if you’re unsatisfied, you can claim a refund within 30 days. I requested my refund via its live chat customer support and got approval within a few minutes. The money was credited into my account in 5 working days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN works on: PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, Meta Quest 2, NVIDIA Shield, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, routers, and more.
Get ExpressVPN's Black Friday Deal! You can subscribe to ExpressVPN for as low as per month + get extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to %)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. CyberGhost — Optimized Gaming Servers Provide Low Ping for Uninterrupted PlayStation Gaming
Key Features:
- Network of 11,670+ servers in 100 countries and optimized connections for gaming
- Includes DNS and IP leak protection, a kill switch, and 256-bit encryption to prevent DDoS attacks and ensure secure console gaming
- Allows 7 simultaneous connections and can be set up on routers to use on PlayStation
- Offers fast customer support via live chat, email, and online guides
- Comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost’s gaming-optimized servers offer low latency and excellent speeds for gaming. Since PlayStation doesn’t directly allow VPN apps, you’ll have to connect to a gaming server from your PC and route the connection to your console through a hotspot.
I got a ping of 29ms on CyberGhost’s gaming server in Frankfurt, whereas a regular one in the same location yielded 44ms. My team repeated the same test across multiple locations, and CyberGhost provided low ping and fast speeds consistently. I routed the VPN connection to my PlayStation via hotspot and got the same speed test and ping results as on my PC.
Restricted networks like hotel WiFi can throttle your internet and not let you play if you’re traveling with your console. With CyberGhost, you can play games online on your PlayStation anywhere. Rest assured, no one will be able to DDoS, as CyberGhost includes:
- Solid leak protection — prevents your IP address and gaming activities from getting exposed to third parties and snoopers so there’s no chance of DDoS attacks.
- Military-grade encryption — turns your gaming, browsing, and other online activities into an unreadable format to make you digitally invisible.
- IP masking — allows you to seamlessly change regions.
A small inconvenience of CyberGhost is that it doesn’t have gaming-optimized servers on its Mac and mobile apps, which would’ve made using them on your PlayStation easier via a mobile hotspot. However, you can configure CyberGhost on your router to use the VPN on your PlayStation and all other home devices.
You’ll get the best deal with CyberGhost’s 2-year + 2 months plan at just a month. Its long-term plans provide a 45-day money-back guarantee. I gave my account details to the live chat support agent for refund processing, which took 10 minutes to approve and 6 days to arrive in my account.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost works on: PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, smart TVs, Raspberry Pi, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, routers, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to %)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. Private Internet Access — Global Network Offers Low-Latency Servers Near Game Servers for Smooth Gameplay
Key Features:
- 35,000+ servers in 91 countries ensure low-ping console gaming
- Includes military-grade encryption, a kill switch, robust leak protection, and an ad blocker to browse ad-free on PlayStation
- Offers Smart DNS in the US, UK, Netherlands, Germany, and Japan
- Supports unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription
- Provides a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans
With 35,000+ servers in 91 countries, PIA is excellent for gaming on your PlayStation. Due to the large spread, its servers are less likely to be overcrowded. You can also use a virtual server, which might be physically close to you but provides an IP address of a distant location to ensure smooth gaming on your console.
I played Dying Light 2 Stay Human on PS5 with my friends without lag while using a hotspot connected to PIA’s local server. However, on very distant servers in Australia and Los Angeles, my ping varied between 180ms to 300ms and the game got too laggy for my liking. To get the best performance, I recommend using PIA’s local or nearby servers.
With PIA’s port forwarding, you can fix restrictive NAT types on your PlayStation. Network Address Translation (NAT) determines how easily your console connects to other players. Therefore, you can join games, host sessions, and talk to other players in game more easily. While this can expose you to security risks, PIA protects you with:
- Flexible encryption — lets you switch from the 256 to 128-bit cipher, which takes less time to encrypt your data and can reduce latency for gaming.
- MACE ad blocker — blocks ads, trackers, and malware if you browse the web on your PlayStation through your PC or mobile hotspot.
- Dedicated IP address — gives you an exclusive IP address for a small extra fee so that the PlayStation Network doesn’t flag you for using a VPN.
Unlike CyberGhost, PIA doesn’t offer specialized servers for gaming. However, that didn’t bother me as PIA’s regular servers were fast enough for gaming on my PlayStation.
You can get PIA for just a month, making it one of the best monthly VPNs on the market. If you think it’s not a good fit, you can get a refund with its 30-day money-back policy. I asked for mine via live chat and got reimbursed within a week.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA works on: PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Amazon Luna, Meta Quest, Steam Deck, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, routers, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to %)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!
4. NordVPN — Meshnet Can Create a LAN-Like Virtual Gaming Network With Your Friends
Key Features:
- 6,300+ 10Gbps servers in 111 countries that provide ample bandwidth for gaming
- Ensures fast and secure gameplay with LAN invisibility, co-located servers, and a verified no-logs policy
- Lets you protect up to 10 devices simultaneously
- Provides swift customer support via live chat, email, and online resources
- Gives you 30 days to try it without any commitments
NordVPN’s Meshnet connects your PlayStation with your friends’ gaming setups as if they were on the same local network. This lets you host or join multiplayer LAN sessions with friends from anywhere. Meshnet achieves the same result as port forwarding more easily without the security drawbacks.
With its 10Gbps servers, NordVPN can easily handle resource-heavy tasks like online gaming. Compared to my baseline ping of 25ms, a mid-range server in Turkey only increased it to 65ms. Although it’s distance that mainly contributes to latency, NordVPN’s 10Gbps servers reduce server congestion and indirectly minimize latency.
I was pleased to see NordVPN pass all my IP and DNS leak tests. Each test displayed the server’s IP address and not my own. This gave me peace of mind that unexpected DDoS attacks wouldn’t disrupt my gaming sessions and that I was completely secure with:
- NordLynx protocol — is built around the efficient WireGuard protocol but includes a double NAT system for better privacy, providing smooth and secure gameplay.
- LAN Invisibility — hides your device from other people using the same network, so you can use your PlayStation on hotel WiFi without being seen.
- Co-located servers — are entirely owned and managed by NordVPN to reduce third-party interference and privacy risks associated with that.
You shouldn’t use NordVPN’s double VPN servers with your PlayStation, as they’re slow due to double encryption and are only designed for tasks like online banking. Its regular servers are fast enough for lag-free gaming to the extent that I can confidently call NordVPN one of the best Call of Duty: Warzone VPNs.
While the monthly plan is a bit pricey, you can save up to 74% with NordVPN’s long-term plans. You can try any plan risk-free for 30 days and get a refund, no questions asked. I tested this myself and got my money back in 5 business days.
NordVPN works on: PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Oculus, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, routers, and more.
5. Surfshark — Nexus Provides a Fast and Stable VPN Connection to Avoid Gaming Disruptions on PlayStation
Key Features:
- Has a decent network of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- Comes with Camouflage Mode, NoBorders, an IP rotator, leak protection, and more
- Works with PlayStation via Smart DNS, router setup, or hotspots
- Allows you to connect unlimited devices on a single subscription
- Try it risk-free for 30 days with its money-back guarantee
Surfshark’s Nexus feature removes any chance your gaming session gets disrupted due to server instability. It connects you to the entire network rather than a single server. If one server becomes unsteady, it automatically switches you to another one. As a result, you can stay immersed in gaming and not get into the hassle of finding the right server.
Its Camouflage Mode makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, making it harder for network administrators to throttle your PlayStation’s connection. This is particularly useful if you’re traveling to a country that bans or restricts VPNs. In addition, Surfshark has:
- NoBorders Mode — detects network restrictions in heavily censored regions and connects you to servers that work best under those conditions.
- GPS spoofing — overrides your Android device’s GPS location with that of the server, which can make it easier to access game DLCs unavailable in your region.
The only issue I had with Surfshark was that it almost halved my speeds on distant servers in Australia. However, I mostly retained my baseline ping and speed at nearby locations. I’d advise not to use its MultiHop servers as they’re designed for security, not performance. If privacy is a concern, Surfshark’s IP rotator can change your IP address at regular intervals.
Surfshark’s 2-year + 4 months plan is a bargain at just $1.99 a month. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can use it with your PlayStation risk-free. Getting my refund was easy through live chat, and I got reimbursed in a week without any hassle.
Surfshark works on: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, Meta Quest 2, Windows, macOS, routers, and more.
How to Set Up a VPN on Your PlayStation
Desktops — Ethernet or WiFi
If you have a Windows PC or MacBook, you can easily connect it to a VPN and set up a hotspot to share the VPN connection with your PlayStation and any other device that doesn’t natively support VPNs. I recommend using an ethernet connection because it’s more stable.
Windows PC
- Connect to a VPN server. I recommend ExpressVPN because it provides blazing-fast speeds and low latency for uninterrupted gaming.
- Change adapter settings. Open the Control Panel, go to ‘Network and Sharing Center,’ and click ‘Change Adapter Settings.’
- Find your network connection. From the list, locate your network, right-click it, and click ‘Properties.’
- Share your connection. Head to the ‘Sharing’ tab at the top, select ‘Allow other network users to connect through this computer’s internet connection,’ and click OK.
- Connect your PlayStation. Go to your PlayStation’s ‘Network Settings’ and set up a new connection. Select ‘LAN Cable,’ then ‘Easy.’ You’ll be prompted with a screen asking about a proxy server. Select ‘Do not use’ to complete the connection setup.
If you prefer a WiFi hotspot, search ‘Mobile Hotspot’ in Windows search and ensure WiFi is selected under ‘Share my Internet Connection.’ Next, turn this setting on and repeat step 5 from above to share your PC’s WiFi hotspot with your PlayStation.
MacBook
- Connect to a VPN server. Use ExpressVPN’s Mac app and connect to any server you like.
- Enable connection sharing. In ‘System Preferences,’ click ‘General,’ then toggle on ‘Internet Sharing.’
- Choose Adapter. In the window that pops us, choose WiFi or Ethernet for ‘Share your connection from’ and toggle on the appropriate ethernet adapter in ‘To devices using.’
- Connect your PlayStation. Go to your console’s ‘Network Settings’ and set up a new connection. Choose WiFi or ‘Use a LAN Cable,’ then ‘Easy,’ followed by ‘Do not use on the proxy server’ screen.
Router Method
Setting up a VPN on your router covers all devices connected to your network, including your PlayStation. However, if your router isn’t compatible with VPNs, you should use the PC method above. Otherwise, here’s how you can configure a VPN on your router:
- Download ExpressVPN’s firmware. Log in on ExpressVPN’s website, click the ‘Router’ tab, and use the dropdown menu under ‘Firmware Download’ to find your specific router. Download this file to your computer.
![Screenshot of how to download ExpressVPN firmware for a router from ExpressVPN's website]()
- Log in to your router. Make sure your router is connected to the internet. Next, log in to your router’s interface by typing its IP address in a web browser.
- Upload ExpressVPN firmware. Find a setting to upgrade or update firmware, which usually is in Settings. Upload the ExpressVPN firmware .trx file you downloaded.
- Complete router setup. Once the firmware is upgraded, reboot the router. After reconnecting, ExpressVPN router firmware should pop up on your screen. Select ‘Get Started’ and follow the instructions. Note down the WiFi name, password, and router password you see once you’re done, and click ‘Save.’
- Connect your PlayStation to the router. Open your PlayStation’s network settings and connect it to your router, which is now running ExpressVPN.
Mobile App Method
If you don’t want to set up a VPN on your router or desktop, you can use your phone’s VPN to create a hotspot:
- Install a VPN app. I suggest using ExpressVPN, as it has lightweight and intuitive apps on iOS and Android.
- Enable hotspot. Go to your phone’s settings and enable mobile hotspot. This will be different on iOS and Android mobile devices.
- Connect to the hotspot. Connect your PlayStation to the mobile hotspot. Go to ‘Settings,’ then ‘Network,’ and click ‘Set Up Internet Connection.’ Connect the console to your mobile hotspot. Once connected, your PlayStation will use the VPN through the mobile network.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for PlayStation
| Lowest Price | Server Network | Maximum Recorded Ping | Simultaneous Devices | Money-Back Guarantee | |
| ExpressVPN | /month | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | 79ms | 8 | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | /month | 11,670+ servers in 100 countries | 134ms | 7 | 45 days |
| PIA | /month | 35,000+ servers in 91 countries | 308ms | unlimited | 30 days |
| NordVPN | $2.99/month | 6,300+ servers in 111 countries | 267ms | 10 | 30 days |
| Surfshark | $1.99/month | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | 350ms | unlimited | 30 days |
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for PlayStation
To find the best VPNs for PlayStation, I tested each service using the following criteria:
- Speed and latency — I ran multiple speed tests and picked the VPNs that retained my baseline connections and ping even on mid-range and distant servers.
- Server network — I looked for VPNs with a global server network to avoid potential congestion and slowdowns while gaming.
- DDoS protection — I ensured my top picks passed my IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak tests and include military-grade encryption for secure gaming.
- Compatibility — I chose VPNs that work on desktops, mobiles, and routers so you can share a VPN-encrypted connection to your console via a hotspot.
- Money-back guarantee — I tested every VPN’s refund policy claims and measured how easy and fast it was to get my money back.
FAQs: VPNs and PlayStation
Can I watch Netflix on a PlayStation with a VPN?
Can I play games on PlayStation Plus or Remote Play with a VPN?
Can I set up a VPN on my PS4 or PS5 without a PC?
Does changing DNS settings on my PlayStation improve its performance?
It can, but you’ll still be vulnerable to DDoS attacks without a top VPN. ExpressVPN is my #1 choice for gaming, but these top VPNs in 2024 are worth considering.
If you’re not concerned about security, switching to a faster DNS provider like Google DNS or Cloudflare can minimize delays connecting to online game servers and offer more stable connections. That said, it won’t directly affect hardware performance like frame rates or graphics.
Will a VPN affect my gaming experience?
Can I use a free VPN with my PlayStation?
You can, but I advise against it. Instead, you can use a premium VPN like CyberGhost free for 45 days with its money-back guarantee. Just make sure to cancel your subscription before the period ends, and you can request a full refund.
Most free VPNs have strict data caps that wouldn’t last a 3-hour gaming session, among other constraints. There are some free and safe VPNs you can try, but they might have limited servers and congested networks.
Enjoy Uninterrupted Gaming on PlayStation With a VPN
Besides disrupting your gameplay, DDoS attacks can ruin your winning streak and scoreboard. Similarly, restricted networks can throttle your speeds if they detect their internet being used for gaming. Using a reliable VPN can help prevent such issues and ensure smooth, uninterrupted, and secure gaming — though it’s difficult finding one.
After rigorously testing the industry’s top names, ExpressVPN is my top choice for PlayStation gamers. Configuring it on your router takes minutes with its dedicated router app. It offers extensive DDoS protection and lets you play on restricted networks throttle-free. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Summary — Best VPNs for PlayStation in 2024
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Leave a Comment
Cancel