Best Free And Premium Gaming VPNs of 2023

How we selected and tested these VPNs

Another great question would be how we picked these VPNs or what were our criteria for selecting these VPNs. Well, let me tell you all the factors we considered for selecting a gaming VPN and you can also use these as tips to choose the best VPNs for gaming in 2023.

To select the best VPNs for gaming, we rigorously tested and analyzed various factors that directly impact the gaming experience. Here’s how we evaluated each aspect and their importance for a gaming VPN:

1. Speed and Latency (30% importance): Speed and latency are crucial for gaming, as they affect the responsiveness and fluidity of the gameplay. We tested multiple servers for each VPN and measured the download/upload speeds and ping times, ensuring that the selected VPNs provide fast connections and low latency for smooth gaming sessions. A slow VPN is useless, especially for gaming, thus it was our main focus to select a fast VPN.

2. Security Features (20% importance): Online gaming can expose players to potential threats, such as DDoS attacks and data breaches. We evaluated each VPN’s security features, including encryption standards, protocols, and additional tools like kill switches and DDoS protection, to ensure a safe gaming experience.

3. Server Network (15% importance): A vast server network allows gamers to connect to different regions, access geo-restricted content, and find less crowded servers for optimal performance. We assessed the number and distribution of servers for each VPN, prioritizing those with extensive server networks that cater to gamers worldwide.

4. Compatibility (15% importance): Gamers use various devices and platforms for gaming, including consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. We tested the VPNs on multiple platforms and checked for router compatibility to make sure they work seamlessly across different devices.

5. P2P Support (10% importance): Peer-to-peer (P2P) support is essential for gamers who engage in file sharing or require direct connections with other players. We tested each VPN to ensure they support P2P networking and offer dedicated servers optimized for P2P traffic, ensuring a smooth gaming experience without any bottlenecks or restrictions.

6. Customer Support (5% importance): Prompt and efficient customer support is vital in case gamers encounter any issues with their VPN connection. We tested the responsiveness and quality of each VPN’s customer support, prioritizing those with live chat support and comprehensive help centers.

7. Additional Features (5% importance): We also looked at any extra features provided by the VPNs that could benefit gamers, such as gaming-optimized servers, split tunneling, and support for streaming platforms. These additional features can enhance the gaming experience, allowing users to access more content, optimize their connections for gaming, and manage their VPN usage more effectively.

By evaluating each VPN based on these criteria, we were able to identify the top VPNs for gaming that delivers the perfect balance of performance, security, and usability. These factors ensure that gamers can enjoy a seamless, safe, and hassle-free online gaming experience.

VPNs to Avoid for Gaming:

1. Hola VPN:

Avoid using Hola VPN for gaming, as it operates as a peer-to-peer network, which means that your device becomes a part of the network and shares its resources with other users. This can negatively impact your gaming experience by causing slow speeds, high latency, and potential security risks. Additionally, Hola VPN lacks the advanced security features and server options necessary for an optimal gaming experience.

2. TorGuard VPN:

TorGuard VPN is not recommended for gaming, primarily due to its focus on providing anonymity and security for torrenting rather than optimizing for gaming performance. While it does offer a robust server network and strong security features, it falls short in delivering the low latency and fast speeds required for seamless gaming. Additionally, its user interface and configuration options can be complex and challenging for gamers to navigate.

3. Ultra VPN:

Ultra VPN is not an ideal choice for gaming, as it has a limited server network and inconsistent speeds that can lead to lag and high ping rates. Moreover, it lacks some essential security features, such as a kill switch, which can put your gaming sessions at risk. With its limited capabilities, Ultra VPN does not provide the optimal performance and security needed for a smooth gaming experience.

4. Astrill VPN:

While Astrill VPN offers strong security features and a decent server network, it is not recommended for gaming due to its inconsistent speeds and high latency. Furthermore, it has a complicated pricing structure and is relatively expensive compared to other VPNs that provide better gaming performance. Considering these factors, Astrill VPN is not the best choice for gamers seeking a reliable and fast VPN service.

Will a free gaming VPN lower my ping?

A free VPN is never a good option for gaming. Every VPN will increase the ping to some extent unless your ISP is throttling your connection. However, a free VPN will typically result in a much higher ping due to various reasons, such as overcrowded servers, slower speeds, and limited server locations. Additionally, free VPNs can pose risks to your privacy and security.

Instead, I always suggest opting for a low-cost premium VPN like Surfshark or PIA. These VPNs offer better performance, a wider server network, and more reliable connections for gaming, while also ensuring your privacy and security are well-protected. Although they may not be entirely free, the investment in a premium VPN service is well worth it for an enhanced and secure gaming experience.

How to Get a Free VPN Trial for Gaming?

To enjoy a premium gaming experience without any upfront commitment, you can opt for a free VPN trial. ExpressVPN, one of the best VPNs for gaming, offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, thus minimizing your risk.

Here’s how to get a free trial of ExpressVPN for gaming:

1. Visit the ExpressVPN website and choose a subscription plan that suits your needs.

2. Complete the sign-up process by entering your email address and payment information. Rest assured that you won’t be charged during the trial period if you decide to claim a refund.

3. Download and install the ExpressVPN app on your preferred gaming device.

4. Launch the app, log in with your credentials, and connect to a server optimized for gaming.

5. Enjoy gaming with enhanced speeds, security, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions.

If you’re not satisfied with ExpressVPN’s performance during the trial period, you can request a refund within 30 days. To do so, simply contact their customer support team through the 24/7 live chat feature or email. They will process your refund request, and you’ll receive your money back within a few business days.

By opting for ExpressVPN’s free trial, you can ensure that it meets your gaming requirements and delivers the performance you need without any long-term commitment.

What Are the Risks of a Free VPN for Gaming?

While a free VPN may seem like an attractive option for gaming, there are several risks associated with using one. Some of the main risks include:

1. Slower speeds: Free VPNs often have limited server networks and overcrowded servers, which can result in slow connections and increased latency. This can severely impact your gaming experience, causing lags and delays.

2. Data caps: Many free VPNs impose data caps on their users, which can be problematic for gaming, as online games can consume a significant amount of data. With data caps, you may find your gaming sessions cut short or heavily throttled.

3. Limited server locations: Free VPNs typically offer a limited number of server locations, which can hinder your ability to bypass geo-restrictions or connect to gaming servers closer to your location, potentially leading to higher ping times and a less enjoyable gaming experience.

4. Security and privacy concerns: Free VPNs may not have the same robust security features as their premium counterparts, leaving you more vulnerable to cyber threats, such as DDoS attacks, IP leaks, and hacking attempts. Additionally, some free VPNs may log your data and sell it to third parties for profit, which can compromise your privacy.

5. Unreliable connections: Free VPNs may not provide the same level of reliability as paid VPNs, leading to frequent disconnections and unstable connections that can disrupt your gaming experience.