How to Fix Fortnite Lag With a VPN on PC, Xbox, and More
Reading time: 17 min
Updated on December 30, 2023
Fortnite can slow down for various reasons including the device you’re using. However, the most common causes are network and server issues. Gaming servers that are overcrowded by players can cause Fornite to lag. Servers too far away can also do the same.
A VPN will help you get connected to a less crowded gaming server nearby so that your game isn’t ruined by delays. It can even reduce your ping (the time it takes for a command on your device to translate into action in the game) so you can compete with the best players.
I tried over 60 VPNs with Fortnite and found that ExpressVPN was the best. It’s the fastest VPN I’ve tested and keeps you safe from DDoS attacks by disgruntled players. You can also buy ExpressVPN risk-free for Fortnite as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. 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.
Why is Fortnite Laggy?
Fortnite lag can be generally categorized into three types — network lag, gaming server lag, and lags caused by hardware issues. Network lag stems from your own internet connection. It could be due to unstable WiFi, slow speeds, or bandwidth issues due to too many device connections.
Sometimes, Fortnite’s gaming servers themselves are slow. They could be overcrowded by players, especially at peak times or be under maintenance. These are out of your control but you can solve this by switching to a different Fortnite server.
A common problem with Windows and macOS devices is inadequate hardware. Older components that don’t meet Fortnite’s system requirements can reduce performance. Even offline games can lag if they run on outdated systems.
Software can be another issue — outdated drivers can affect how a game functions. Some common problems include system freeze, lags, and even system crash.
Ways to Fix Fortnite Lag
1. Connect to a VPN
Using a VPN helps you connect you to a gaming server that’s less crowded. Since VPNs have servers around the world, you can select another location for your traffic to be routed to a different gaming server. You can also connect to a server that’s closer to Fortnite’s servers to reduce ping times.
2. Close Unnecessary Background Apps
Background applications can suck up your system’s resources and contribute to lag. To ensure smoother gameplay, close unused programs (especially bandwidth-heavy ones) before launching Fortnite. This frees up your device’s processing power and network capacity for gaming.
3. Clear the Cache
Accumulated cache files can slow down your system and impact Fortnite’s performance. The steps to clear the cache vary depending on your gaming device but routinely removing these temporary files can prevent lags. It will let you play without unnecessary disruptions caused by an overloaded system memory.
4. Use an Ethernet Connection
An ethernet connection is faster and more stable compared to WiFi. If your computer or gaming device is connected to the internet via WiFi, switch to a network cable to get a stronger signal and minimize interference.
5. Apply the Latest Game Patches
Fortnite frequently releases updates to enhance gameplay and fix bugs. Neglecting these patches may lead to performance problems and lags. Make sure you’re using the latest version of the game to ensure optimal efficiency.
6. Update Drivers
On PC and Mac, outdated graphics cards and network adapter drivers can cause Fortnite to lag. Keep them updated for smoother gameplay. You can download the latest drivers from the device manufacturer’s website. Updated drivers optimize your system’s communication with the hardware, enhancing overall game performance and reducing potential lags.
7. Change Graphics Settings
Lowering graphics settings can significantly boost game performance and reduce lags. Adjusting settings like rendering modes can enhance frame rates and stability. To do this:
- Start Fortnite.
- Go to “Menu” and locate “Rendering mode” in display settings.
- Change the mode to “Performance – Lower Graphical Fidelity” and click “Apply”.
- Fortnite should be faster when you restart it.
8. Change Your Computer’s Power Mode
Power-saving modes can slow down your computer’s performance, contributing to game lag. It’s common to forget to switch them back off for CPU-intensive activities like gaming. On Windows, switch to a high-performance mode in the Control Panel’s power options. On Mac, choose the ‘Energy Saver’ mode.
9. Change Performance Options in System Properties
If you’re gaming on a Windows computer, you can find detailed performance settings in system properties. To make the adjustments:
- Type “performance” into the toolbar and then choose “Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows.”
- In the “Visual Effects” tab, click “Adjust or best performance.”
- In the “Advanced tab”, click “Programs.”
- In the “Data Execution Prevention” tab, click “Turn on DEP for essential Windows programs and services only.”
- Finally, select “Apply”, and then “OK.”
10. Change Matchmaking Region
Fortnite automatically connects you to the nearest server for lower ping. However, manually adjusting the matchmaking region can also reduce lag. To do this:
- Launch Fortnite, go to “Settings,” and look for “Game.”
- Under “Language and region,” change the “Matchmaking region” to your preffered choice.
11. Change Fortnite Config Files
If you’re on a computer, tweaking Fortnite’s configuration files can improve performance. By changing specific game files, you can fine-tune the settings unavailable within the in-game menu.
Be careful though and ensure that you’re comfortable making changes to advanced settings. Follow a trusted guide if you’re not sure to avoid accidentally damaging your system.
12. Upgrade Your Computer
If none of these fix Fortnite lag, consider upgrading your computer. A more powerful GPU, additional RAM, or a faster processor can significantly enhance gaming performance. A pre-built gaming computer can also help you meet or exceed Fortnite’s requirements.
Quick Guide: 3 Easy Steps to Fix Fortnite Lag With a VPN
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN for Fortnite as it gave me the fastest speeds and never caused lags.
- Connect to a server. Choose one close to your location or the gaming server’s location for the lowest ping.
- That’s it! Now you can play Fortnite safely and without being interrupted by annoying lags.
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.
The Best VPNs to Play Fortnite Without Lags in 2024
1. ExpressVPN — The #1 VPN for Fortnite With the Fastest Speeds and Most Secure Servers
Key Features:
- At least 3,000 servers in 105 countries
- Military-grade encryption, Network Lock kill switch, IP leak protection, Threat Manager, and RAM-based servers support its no-logs policy
- Lets you connect up to 8 devices at the same time
- Customer support available via email, 24/7 live chat, and online guides
- 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Fortnite as it’s fast enough to prevent lagging and it’s secure. Besides excelling in every critical area tested, ExpressVPN has 3,000+ servers in 105 countries so you’ll always find one near you to play Fortnite.
When I connected to nearby servers in London, my ping was impressive at an average of 22ms. Even on distant servers in New York, Chicago, and LA, my ping ranged between 35 and 75ms. This is generally good to play matches without lags.
It isn’t just speeds that make this one of the best VPNs in 2024. ExpressVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption — the same level trusted by the US military to secure your data while playing Fortnite. Other privacy and security features it has include:
- IP leak protection — proven during tests that my IP address and other data don’t leak through ExpressVPN’s encryption and become visible to DDoS attackers.
- Network Lock — makes sure your data isn’t exposed if your device loses connection to ExpressVPN’s server.
- British Virgin Islands headquarters — based in one of the most privacy-friendly countries that’s also not part of the 14 Eyes Alliance.
- No-logs policy — audited by PwC, KPMG, and Cure53 to verify that ExpressVPN doesn’t log any of your gaming data.
Unlike other VPNs, ExpressVPN has dedicated firmware for routers and it’s easy to set up with its comprehensive guide. Once configured, I could connect all my devices at once to play Fortnite. You can also set up a mobile hotspot on your Windows PC to connect your Xbox to it.
The unmatched speeds and functionality do come at a premium price — it costs a month with the 2-year + 4 months free plan. However, it’s worth the price if you want a fast and secure VPN. Plus, you’ll get a 30-day money-back guarantee so there’s no risk if you get ExpressVPN for Fortnite. I got my money back in 4 days after requesting via 24/7 live chat.
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 with: 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, Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
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2. CyberGhost — Gaming-Optimized Servers Reduce Ping to Play Fortnite Without Lags
Key Features:
- 11,670+ servers in 100 countries
- AES 256-bit encryption, IP leak protection, a kill switch, and audited no-logs servers
- Connect 7 devices simultaneously
- 24/7 live chat, email support, and online tutorials in case you have questions
- 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost has gaming-optimized servers designed to reduce ping times for Fortnite and other games. I tested the servers in Frankfurt, London, New York, and Paris and was able to play lag-free matches on each. On nearby servers, my ping stayed at 20-30ms when I played on my PC.
To keep you secure when playing Fortnite, CyberGhost includes these security and privacy features:
- Military-grade encryption — 256-bit cipher protects your data from hackers and other online spies.
- Data leak protection — hides your IP address from losing opponents wishing to crash your game with a DDOS attack.
- Smart Rules setting — lets you set up your device to automatically start a VPN connection whenever you start your device.
You can connect your gaming console to CyberGhost on your computer using an ethernet cable (for Windows) or a crossover cable (for Mac). But I installed CyberGhost on my router instead and connected my PS5 to it. It wasn’t as easy as installing ExpressVPN to my router, but CyberGhost’s tutorial was helpful.
If you only want to play lag-free Fortnite for a few weeks, CyberGhost’s 1-month plan is more expensive than other premium VPNs. It also only comes with a 14-day money-back guarantee. However, CyberGhost’s long-term plans are much more cost-effective and have longer refund policies.
The 2-year + 2 months plan costs just a month if you want to try playing Fortnite with CyberGhost and it comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee. I requested a refund via the 24/7 live chat and an agent processed it in 2 minutes. I had my money back within the 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 CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — The Biggest Choice of Servers for Fortnite
Key Features:
- 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
- 128-bit or 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, and split tunneling
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections allowed
- Get help via online knowledge base, 24/7 live chat, email, and X/Twitter
- 30-day refund policy
PIA has a huge network of at least 35,000 servers in 91 countries to choose from for Fortnite. With more options than any other VPN on this list, finding an uncrowded server close to your game server is easy. I played lag-free matches using PIA servers in the UK, Canada, and Japan.
There are also security and privacy features, like:
- Split tunneling — play Fortnite using a VPN server while using other apps through your regular connection on your PC, Mac, or router.
- Customizable encryption — lets you choose 128-bit cipher for faster Fortnite speeds or 256-bit for increased security.
It also has SOCKS5 proxy servers that are suitable for gaming. It requires authentication when setting up and it won’t reveal your location but your traffic won’t be encrypted. To encrypt your connection, install PIA on your router and connect your gaming device to it.
PIA has one of the cheapest monthly VPN plans. For long-term use, the 2-year + 2 months plan offers better value at only each month. There’s also a money-back guarantee of 30 days — I had my money returned in 5 days when I sent a support ticket to request a 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 Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
Comparison Table: 2024’s Best Fortnite VPNs
| Global servers and countries | Average ping rate on local connections | Simultaneous device connections | Monthly price of best plan | Money-back guarantee | |
| ExpressVPN | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | 21 ms | 8 | a month for 2-year + 4 months free plan | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | 11,670+ servers in 100 countries | 23 ms | 7 | a month for 2-year + 2 months plan | 45 days |
| PIA | 35,000+ servers in 91 countries | 23 ms | Unlimited | a month for 2-year + 2 months plan | 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 Fortnite VPNs
To find the best VPNs to fix Fortnite lag, I used these criteria:
- Global server range — all the VPNs on this list have global server networks. This lets you choose one nearby with low ping for Fortnite.
- Fast speeds — connection speeds are vital for online gaming, whether you want to play Call of Duty: Warzone with a VPN or Fortnite. I only listed those with fast speeds.
- Military-grade encryption — the VPNs on this list secure your data with the highest encryption to avoid cyber threats like DDoS attacks from losing opponents.
- Device compatibility — if you play on multiple devices, the VPNs on this list work with all major ones and can be installed on routers for incompatible gaming consoles.
- Customer support — I only picked VPNs that offer 24/7 live chat and email support so you can troubleshoot quickly and get on with playing.
- Money-back guarantee — each VPN here has a money-back policy in case you’re not happy with its performance and want to try a different service.
FAQs on Fortnite VPNs
How can a VPN help reduce Fortnite lag?
Is it legal to use a VPN for Fortnite?
Why is my ping high in Fortnite?
Why is Fortnite still laggy with fast internet?
If your internet is fast, there are other issues that can cause Fortnite to lag. However, there are ways to prevent Fortnite from lagging. Common problems include hardware-related issues like an aging GPU or insufficient RAM. Outdated software or drivers can also be a contributing factor.
Additionally, in-game settings that are too high for your system’s capabilities can cause lag. Background applications that consume significant system resources or bandwidth can also be culprits. It’s important to ensure your hardware, software, and drivers are up-to-date, and game settings are tailored to your system’s capabilities.
What VPN server should I use for Fortnite?
Can I use a free VPN for Fortnite?
I don’t recommend using a free VPN for Fortnite or any other online games. Although there are some very good free VPNs, most have limited and usually overcrowded servers that are very slow. The worst ones don’t encrypt your traffic and some even sell your information to advertisers.
Instead, use a premium VPN with a money-back guarantee. This way, you can benefit from faster speeds and stronger security than a free VPN can provide. For example, CyberGhost has a 45-day money-back policy.
Get a VPN For Fortnite Today
A VPN is the easiest and most reliable way to reduce lag in Fortnite. It will help you connect to a wider range of servers globally so that you’re not stuck with one that’s overcrowded and slow. In some cases, a VPN will also help maintain stable speeds if you play Fortnite a lot.
Of all the premium VPNs I tested with Fortnite, ExpressVPN was the best. It gave me the lowest ping and every server I used had a super-fast and stable connection. ExpressVPN also uses advanced security features to protect you from cyberattacks. What’s more, when you subscribe to ExpressVPN for Fortnite, you’ll also get a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Summary — Best Fortnite VPNs 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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