Best Online Poker VPN in 2024: 5 Top VPNs for Online Poker
Reading time: 18 min
Updated on September 30, 2024
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![Kate Richards]()
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![Sarah Frazier]()
Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Cybersecurity Editor
PokerStars, GGPoker, and other online poker sites block VPN connections to avoid betting from unlicensed locations. Some even ban accounts and keep your winnings if a VPN is detected, despite using a VPN simply to keep your connection secure.
It’s difficult to find the best VPN for online poker that works reliably and keeps your gaming secure and private. You need a VPN with features that hide your activity from proxy detection (like obfuscation and IPv6 leak protection) while maintaining top data security.
I’ve tested more than 30 services, and ExpressVPN is the best for online poker in 2024. It avoids detection by poker sites with its obfuscated servers, protects your personal data, and lets you play live poker without interruptions. Plus, all plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free. 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.
Play online poker with ExpressVPN
Short on Time: Best VPNs for Online Poker in 2024
- ExpressVPN — Hides VPN activity with obfuscated connections, plus fast speeds let you play live poker without lag or interruptions.
- CyberGhost — Feature-rich and intuitive apps keep poker activity secure, but doesn’t offer obfuscation on any servers.
- Private Internet Access — Huge server network keeps congestion minimal when playing poker online, but doesn’t always connect to poker sites on the first try.
- NordVPN — Premium security features protect your data while playing online poker, but its apps aren’t the easiest to navigate.
- Surfshark — Generous simultaneous connections let you play poker on every device, but no dedicated IPv6 leak protection.
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 Online Poker (Tested in 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — Fastest Speeds for Secure, Private Online Poker
Key Features:
- 3,000+ servers in 105 locations
- AES-256-bit encryption, obfuscated servers, and leak protection
- Fast connection speeds for uninterrupted live online poker
- 24/7 live chat, email support, and online knowledge base
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN is the top service in 2024 for online poker, with fast speeds that guarantee lag-free gaming in poker-friendly locations. During tests, the Lightway protocol provided near-instant connections, and I didn’t notice any significant slowdown in my speed. I could play live online poker without any interruptions.
To keep your poker account and financial details safe, all ExpressVPN connections are protected by top security and privacy features:
- AES-256-bit encryption — military-grade encryption keeps all poker activity away from third-party viewers, securing your network from DDoS attacks.
- Server obfuscation — masks VPN traffic to look like regular HTTPS traffic, avoiding blocks by poker site proxy detection.
- Leak protection — stops accidental DNS, WebRTC, IPv4, IPv6 leaks from exposing your true identity and location.
- Threat Manager — prevents third-party activity tracking and malicious behavior (like shady poker sites).
- Audited zero-log policy — independent audits confirm ExpressVPN never logs or stores your personally-identifiable data.
I was disappointed to find ExpressVPN doesn’t offer dedicated or static IPs since these can help you stay undetected when using VPNs on online poker sites. Thankfully, I didn’t have any trouble with ExpressVPN’s shared IPs — every connection worked with the sites I tested.
While ExpressVPN is a little more expensive than other options (plans start at $4.99/month), I think it’s worth the cost for secure and reliable connections to online poker sites. Plus, all ExpressVPN plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not completely satisfied, you can 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.
ExpressVPN unblocks: PokerStars, GGPoker, Ignition, 888poker, BetOnline, Sky Poker, partypoker, Full Tilt, Juicy Stakes, Intertops Poker, Betway Poker, 32Red Poker, Wild Jack, IDNPoker, iPoker, ClubWPT, ACR Poker, and more.
ExpressVPN works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Kodi, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
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2. CyberGhost — Feature-Rich, Intuitive Apps for Playing Poker Online
Key Features:
- 11,670+ servers in 100 locations
- AES-256-bit encryption, leak protection, dedicated IP addresses available
- Lots of customizable features to boost online poker security
- 24/7 customer support with live chat, email, and FAQs
- 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost’s feature-rich apps are loaded with security features to improve the safety of your online poker activity. These include:
- Dedicated IP — for a small extra fee, you get access to an exclusive IP address that reduces the chance a poker site will detect your VPN use and block you.
- Content blocker — stops shady poker sites from loading, plus blocks ads and trackers to boost privacy.
- WiFi Protection — automatically connects to a server when using public or unsecured WiFi for security when you’re playing poker on the go.
- App Rules — configurable with popular poker apps to connect to a server of your choice when the app opens.
- Zero-log privacy policy — audited privacy policy and RAM-based servers prove CyberGhost never logs or stores personal data.
My issue is that CyberGhost slows down considerably over long-distance connections, which can present an issue when playing on some poker sites. Nearby servers provide the best speeds, so connect to the closest server to you physically. I also recommend you use the WireGuard protocol with CyberGhost for the fastest speeds.
Short-term CyberGhost plans are expensive, but long-term plans are very affordable (starting at $2.03/month). Plus, long-term plans are backed by a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, so it’s easy to get a full refund if you change your mind about subscribing.
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 unblocks: PokerStars, GGPoker, Ignition, 888poker, BetOnline, Sky Poker, partypoker, Full Tilt, Juicy Stakes, Intertops Poker, ClubWPT, ACR Poker, and more.
CyberGhost works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Kodi, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
Get Black Friday Deal and Cyber Monday Deal from CyberGhost! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 84%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Huge Server Network Avoids Congestion When Playing Online Poker
Key Features:
- 35,000+ servers in 91 locations
- Customizable encryption, dedicated IP addresses, and MACE blocking feature
- Huge network ensures local connections and low user load
- Email support and 24/7 live chat for instant responses
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Private Internet Access (PIA) has a huge server network that is ideal for connecting to poker sites. Thousands of IP addresses reduces the risk a poker site or online casino will recognize the address and improves connectivity by avoiding user congestion. Even at peak traffic times, I didn’t have issues with lag or interruptions when playing poker.
You’ll also find PIA has plenty of customizable features that protect your poker activity and boost connectivity, including:
- MACE ad and malware blocker — stops annoying pop-up ads and trackers on poker sites from interrupting your experience.
- Dedicated IP — for a small monthly fee, get an IP address only used by you for reliable connections to poker sites.
- Levels of encryption — use AES-128-bit for faster connections, while AES-256-bit provides stronger protection.
Unfortunately, PIA’s headquarters are at the heart of the 5-Eyes Alliance in the US, a notoriously privacy-unfriendly location. While its strict no-logs policy ensures your data is hidden, this could be a concern if you’re very privacy-focused.
PIA is an affordable choice both long- and short-term — it’s one of the top month-to-month VPNs, and long-term plans start at $2.19/month. All subscriptions have a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try playing poker with PIA risk-free.
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 unblocks: PokerStars, GGPoker, Ignition, 888poker, BetOnline, Sky Poker, partypoker, Full Tilt, Juicy Stakes, Betway Poker, ClubWPT, ACR Poker, and more.
PIA works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Kodi, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, routers, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as $2.19 per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 82%)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!
4. NordVPN — Optimized Servers for Secure Online Poker Games
Key Features:
- 6,300+ servers in 111 locations
- Threat Protection, dedicated IP addresses, and leak protection
- Optimized servers include obfuscation to connect to poker sites
- 24/7 live chat, email, and FAQs
- 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN’s optimized servers are excellent for connecting to poker sites, particularly its obfuscated servers. These servers disguise your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it harder for poker sites to detect and block your connection. During my testing, I experienced smooth gameplay without interruptions or lag.
NordVPN also offers several features that enhance your online poker experience:
- Dedicated IP addresses — for an additional fee, you can get a unique IP address, reducing the risk of being flagged by poker sites.
- Threat Protection — this feature blocks ads and malware, ensuring you’re not interrupted by pop-ups while playing.
- NordLynx protocol — combines fast speeds and top-notch security, perfect for seamless and secure poker sessions.
A minor downside is that NordVPN’s apps aren’t the most intuitive to use, which can be a bit frustrating for beginners — especially if you’re playing poker on a mobile device. However, it doesn’t take long to get used to the app, as long as you’re willing to spend some time exploring the options.
NordVPN offers competitive pricing, with long-term plans starting at $2.99/month. All subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try NordVPN risk-free for playing online poker.
NordVPN unblocks: PokerStars, GGPoker, Ignition, 888poker, BetOnline, Sky Poker, partypoker, Full Tilt, ClubWPT, ACR Poker, and more.
NordVPN works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Kodi, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, routers, and more.
5. Surfshark — Generous Connection Allowance for Online Poker on Multiple Devices
Key Features:
- 3,200+ servers in 100 locations
- CleanWeb ad and malware blocker, Static IP addresses, and NoBorders feature
- Provides unlimited device connections on a single account
- 24/7 support with live chat, email ticketing, and FAQs
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark’s unlimited device connections are perfect for playing poker on multiple devices without the hassle of disconnecting and reconnecting. This means you can seamlessly switch between your laptop, tablet, and phone to play online poker without having to log out of other devices first.
Surfshark also provides features that enhance your poker experience:
- Static IP addresses — free-to-use static IP addresses reduce the risk of being flagged by poker sites.
- NoBorders feature — ensures connectivity even in regions with strict internet restrictions, so you can play poker anywhere.
- CleanWeb ad and malware blocker — keeps your poker sessions free from annoying ads and potential malware threats.
I was disappointed to find that Surfshark doesn’t offer dedicated IPv6 leak protection, which might concern some privacy-focused users — this could result in data leaks that reveal your location. It’s possible to disable IPv6 manually, but I’d like to see Surfshark integrate built-in IPv6 leak protection for better coverage.
Surfshark is budget-friendly, with long-term plans starting at $1.99/month. Every subscription is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test Surfshark’s performance for online poker without any risk.
Surfshark unblocks: PokerStars, GGPoker, Ignition, 888poker, BetOnline, Sky Poker, partypoker, ClubWPT, ACR Poker, and more.
Surfshark works on: Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire Stick, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, Android TV, Kodi, and selected routers.
Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for Poker
| ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | PIA | NordVPN | Surfshark | |
| Server Network | 3,000+ servers in 105 locations | 11,670+ servers in 100 locations | 35,000+ servers in 91 locations | 6,300+ servers in 111 locations | 3,200+ servers in 100 locations |
| Obfuscation | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Dedicated IPs | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Simultaneous Connections | 8 | 7 | unlimited | 10 | unlimited |
| Speeds | Very Fast | Fast | Good | Fast | Good |
| Lowest Price | $4.99 per month | $2.03 per month | $2.19 per month | $2.99 per month | $1.99 per month |
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 Poker
Each VPN was rigorously tested in line with our testing methodology, and the results were ranked according to the following criteria:
- Works with top poker sites — the top recommended VPNs work with online poker sites like PokerStars, GGPoker, Ignition, and 888poker.
- Servers in poker-friendly locations — a large server network not only means you’ll find reliable local servers for online poker, but you’ll also experience minimal user congestion for fast speeds (even at peak traffic times).
- Strong security and privacy features — to avoid detection and protect your poker account data, a VPN needs AES-256-bit encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and an audited zero-logs privacy policy.
- Obfuscation and dedicated IP addresses — for added security and easy connections, some VPNs offer obfuscation (to hide VPN activity from proxy detection) and dedicated IP addresses (these are usually available for a small additional fee).
- Fast connection speeds — reliably speedy connections mean fewer interruptions while playing online poker (slow speeds can cause connectivity issues, which could result in you being kicked from games and losing your winnings).
- Device compatibility — all recommended VPNs are compatible with a range of popular platforms, including Windows and Mac, and iOS and Android smartphones, so you can play poker at home and on-the-go.
3 Step Guide: How to Play Poker With a VPN
- Download a secure VPN that works with online poker sites. For fast and reliable connections, ExpressVPN is the top choice for online poker in 2024.
![Screenshot of ExpressVPN's official website, stating it's the best VPN for online poker and highlighting the]()
- Configure your VPN and connect to a local server. Make sure the kill switch and leak protection are active, and choose a nearby server for the best speeds.
![Image of ExpressVPN connected to a US-New Jersey server, with the Network Lock kill switch feature highlighted and switched on.]()
- Visit your favorite poker site in your browser or app and start playing. You can now play on PokerStars and other top sites without issues.
![image of poker game being played on PokerStars, with ExpressVPN connected to a server in New Jersey.]()
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.
Tips for Playing Online Poker With a VPN
Here are a few tips that will minimize the risk of getting your poker account blocked, banned, or deleted from popular poker sites like PokerStars and GGPoker:
- Always connect to a VPN before playing online poker — connecting to a VPN server before playing online poker ensures your gaming is secure and your personal data (like your IP address and location) are private.
- Use a dedicated IP address where possible — a dedicated IP address is solely for your use, reducing the chance of it being detected as a VPN connection as it’s not used by multiple individuals.
- Withdraw money often — by keeping small amounts of money in your poker account, you reduce the risk of losing your winnings if something goes wrong.
- Enable your kill switch and leak protection — a kill switch helps protect your data if your VPN connection is interrupted, and leak protection avoids accidental data leaks that could expose your information.
- Try paying with cryptocurrency or playing CryptoPoker — cryptocurrency maintains your anonymity, so paying with crypto or playing CryptoPoker avoids specific information being traced back to you.
FAQs: VPNs and Online Poker
Can I use a VPN to play online poker on PokerStars and other sites safely and legally?
Is online poker legal in Australia, the US, and other countries?
It’s complicated — playing poker online varies in legality between countries. That’s why it’s so important to check local laws before using a VPN to play online poker.
In Australia, all real-money poker is prohibited. The US varies by state — you can play real-money poker in Delaware, Nevada, West Virginia, Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Other countries sometimes allow free-to–play online poker, while others ban online poker altogether.
Will my account get banned if I use an online poker VPN?
How do PokerStars, GGPoker, Ignition, and other poker sites detect VPNs?
Sites like PokerStars and GGPoker have several methods of detecting VPNs — although using a dedicated IP address for online poker reduces the likelihood of this happening significantly.
Some methods of detection include:
- Detecting an IP address that has been linked to a VPN or used by multiple players at the same time.
- Monitoring payment methods to check that the information matches your listed location.
- Analyzing your traffic patterns and behavior, like sudden changes in IP location or unusual connection speeds.
Will a VPN protect me from DDoS attacks on poker sites?
Why do online poker sites get blocked?
Can I use a free VPN for online poker?
Play Online Poker With a VPN Today!
Sites like PokerStars, GGPoker, and 888poker heavily restrict VPNs due to regional laws. Even if you’re not breaking the rules and want to use a VPN for online privacy, you could face account bans and restrictions if you don’t use a reliable VPN.
After testing more than 30 services, I’ve found ExpressVPN is the best option for online poker. Its advanced security features let you connect to poker sites without issue, and fast speeds ensure you can play each hand without interruptions. If you’re not fully satisfied with how ExpressVPN performs, you can get a full refund within 30 days.
Summary — Best VPNs for Online Poker 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.
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