Best VPN PS5

Quick Summary
In Short

  • PlayStation consoles don’t support VPNs natively and have very limited store offerings, with no way to sideload your own apps.
  • Despite this, it’s still possible to encrypt traffic from your PS5 (or any other games console) by installing a VPN onto your router.
  • I’ve performed exhaustive testing on 70+ leading services to find out which VPNs are best for PS5. 
  • NordVPN is my first choice. This provider has a spotless privacy record, delivers very high speeds, and can sidestep nearly any online restriction.

Have you ever tried to play games with friends in other countries only to find that your preferred game doesn’t allow you to manually change region? That’s one of many scenarios where having your PlayStation 5 connected to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) could help.

However, the PlayStation store doesn’t include any VPNs at the time of writing, so if you want to access region-locked events, unblock streaming apps, or use the PS5 browser privately, you’ll have to either install a VPN on your router or share an encrypted connection from another device.

That’s where I come in. I’ve thoroughly tested, and analyzed dozens of popular providers with the goal of recommending only the top VPNs for PS5 users. You’ll find a short description of each below, with more-detailed reviews further down the page.

Best VPNs for PS5:

  1. NordVPN: My #1 VPN for PS5 users. Lightning-fast speeds, a strong security focus, and top-notch unblocking ability make it ideal for safe streaming and lag-free gaming. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
    TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for PS5.
  2. Surfshark: The best budget VPN for PS5. A reliable, privacy-focused VPN with no bandwidth or connection limits. Works anywhere and is great for streaming.
  3. ProtonVPNThis fast and versatile VPN is easy to install on routers. Boasts a high degree of privacy and access to servers in an astounding 120+ countries.
  4. ExpressVPN: A strong everyday VPN that works great with Netflix. Solid set of security and privacy features, plus a Smart DNS service that can be activated on PS5 in minutes.
  5. IPVanish: Quick, reliable, and security-conscious, this VPN is a hard worker that can handle just about anything. It has no connection limit and doesn’t keep any logs.
  6. CyberGhostA secure, beginner-friendly VPN with high speeds and its own Smart DNS service. Blocks ads, even when installed on a router. Can access virtually any major streaming platform.
  7. Private Internet AccessThis speedy VPN has servers in 90+ countries and works with Netflix, Max, and Hulu. Strong focus on privacy. No device limit.
  8. PrivateVPNFairly small network but offers exceptional streaming ability and a stealth mode that can sidestep country-wide censorship. Zero-logs policy.
Get NordVPN - the #1 VPN for PS5
Warning

Many VPNs claim to work with PS5 but most (especially free VPNs) are often blocked.

We regularly test the top 70 VPNs with all major streaming sites and this list only includes VPNs which reliably unblock PS5 and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.

How I selected the top PS5 VPNs

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when comparing VPNs. Here’s a good rule of thumb: instead of choosing the service that claims to be the best at one particular thing, try to find a VPN that does everything reasonably well. This ensures that you’ll be able to handle most day-to-day situations without any issues. I took this into account by testing providers in all of the following areas:

  • Speed: Each VPN was speed tested three times throughout the day, using a 250 Mbps connection and the quickest-available US server.
  • Streaming ability: To gauge streaming ability, I checked whether providers had a smart DNS feature, tested their ability to unblock Netflix global libraries, and scored them on their overall network size.
  • Security and privacy: You can’t afford to compromise on security. That’s why I only recommended services with robust privacy offerings; there were over 15 factors to consider, including encryption strength and what logs are kept.
  • Ease of use: Nobody wants to waste time trying to get their VPN to work. That’s why I prioritized services with simple signup procedures, 24/7 live chat, and generous connection limits, as well as servers optimized for gaming.
  • Value for money: You can get a high-quality VPN without breaking the bank but there are plenty of services happy to take your cash while offering very little. I evaluated VPNs on how low their prices can go, whether they provide student discounts, and how versatile they are overall.

You can read more about how I test and rank the VPNs I recommend in the methodology section below. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the cut. 

PS5 VPNs compared

I’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – the #1 choice for PS5.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkProton VPNExpressVPNIPVanishCyberGhostPrivate Internet AccessPrivateVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comProtonVPN.comExpressVPN.comIPVanish.comCyberghost.comPrivateInternetAccess.comPrivateVPN.com
Ranking for PS512345678
Avg Speed for PS5211.5 Mbps191.04 Mbps176.29 Mbps144.01 Mbps190.40 Mbps126.93 Mbps89.02 Mbps59.46 Mbps
Server countries1301001291051181009063
Total number of servers8,9004,500+18,158Undisclosed3,200+8,000+1,000+200+
Simultaneous Connections10UnlimitedFree: 1, VPN Plus: 1014Unlimited7Unlimited10
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVWindows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV
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Best VPN for PS5

Below, I’ll discuss the top-rated VPNs for PlayStation 5, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses so that you can make an informed decision about whether a given service is right for you. These reviews are all based on my personal experiences and hands-on testing. Let’s begin with my top PS5 VPN, NordVPN.

Here’s my list of the best VPNs for PlayStation 5:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Mar 2026

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN

9.4

Scores calculated algorithmically.

Ease of use 9.6
Security & privacy 9.5
Streaming ability 10.0
US speed 10.0
Value for money 7.9

NordVPN is the best overall PS5 VPN. It offers access to more than 9,000 servers in 130+ countries and is a great choice for streaming. This provider comes with its own Smart DNS service which makes it easy to unblock US-only apps on your PlayStation 5. Of course, the general purpose servers are great too, handily unblocking stubborn platforms like BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and ITVX. Users can secure up to 10 devices at the same time and speak with customer support staff, day or night, via live chat.

Streaming BBC iPlayer.

Now, this won’t help much if NordVPN’s servers can’t keep up. I tested its American servers three times using a 250 Mbps connection since that’s the average household broadband speed in the United States. NordVPN delivered an average speed of 211.49 Mbps, making it the fastest VPN service I tested by far. Simply put, you’re not going to experience any stuttering or buffering so long as your connection is reasonably quick.

I’m a big fan of NordVPN’s security toolkit. It keeps you safe using unbreakable encryption (ChaCha20 on WireGuard connections, AES on OpenVPN), a kill switch, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. There’s also automatic ad and tracker-blocking plus an obfuscated protocol named NordWhisper (though these are only available in-app, not on routers). NordVPN is a zero-log provider, meaning it can’t reveal details of your activities for any reason. You can also sign up anonymously by paying in Bitcoin or gift cards.

WebRTC leak test.
NordVPN passed the WebRTC leak test.

NordVPN users can manually install this service on select routers or download apps for iOS, Windows, MacOS, Android, and Linux devices.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want the fastest speeds available for lag-free PS5 gaming
  • You need a Smart DNS service that unblocks streaming platforms on PS5
  • You’d like a VPN that blocks ads and malware automatically
  • You want access to one of the largest server networks (7,410 in 118+ countries)
  • You need a VPN optimized for reducing latency

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want unlimited simultaneous connections

BEST VPN FOR PS5:NordVPN is the best PS5 VPN. It’s fast, reliable, and extremely versatile, with a set of security features most other providers can only dream of. Smart DNS makes it easy to stream geo-blocked content on PS5, PS4, and any other console you own. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark

9

Scores calculated algorithmically.

Ease of use 9.1
Security & privacy 9.5
Streaming ability 9.6
US speed 8.7
Value for money 8.1

Surfshark is my top budget VPN for PlayStation 5. With roughly 4,500 servers spread across 100 countries and the ability to access even the most stubborn streaming platforms like Disney+ and BBC iPlayer from abroad, this service represents exceptional value. Better still, it comes with its own Smart DNS service, making it as easy as possible to access American streaming services on devices that don’t have full VPN support. There’s no simultaneous connection limit either!

Streaming Disney Plus.
Streaming Disney Plus using Surfshark.

If you’d rather not install it on your router, Surfshark’s Smart DNS feature provides a quick and easy way to stream on your PS5 console. Also, this VPN has no connection limit, so you can secure all of your devices at once.

With an average download speed of 191.04 Mbps, Surfshark was among the fastest services I tried. I didn’t experience any lag or buffering when streaming 4K video, playing competitive online games, or participating in video calls. However, I’d rather its speeds were a little more consistent since there was 43 Mbps of variance across three tests. Here are Surfshark full speed test results:

Even though this is a low-cost provider, Surfshark punches well above its weight where privacy is concerned. Surfshark uses unbreakable encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch by default, all backed up by an independently-verified no-logs policy. It’s also capable of blocking ads, trackers and several types of adult content, sidestepping regional restrictions, and changing your IP address every few minutes. Various cryptocurrencies are supported but you can also sign up anonymously using prepaid cards.

Surfshark's CleanWeb feature.
Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature makes it easy to improve your browsing experience.

Surfshark offers detailed setup guides for a wide range of routers. Alternatively, you can install its apps on Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, and iOS devices.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want the most affordable VPN for PS5
  • You need unlimited device connections to cover all your household devices
  • You’d prefer a VPN that blocks ads and trackers while gaming
  • You need a stealth mode to bypass stubborn geo-blocking in games

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want specialized gaming servers

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is my top low-cost VPN for PlaySation 5. Boasts a strong privacy offering, unlimited connections, and first-class streaming ability. What’s more, every Surfshark subscription comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For more information, check out our Surfshark review.

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3. ProtonVPN

Proton VPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.ProtonVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Proton VPN

8.3

Scores calculated algorithmically.

Ease of use 9.6
Security & privacy 9.3
Streaming ability 7.3
US speed 7.8
Value for money 7.3

ProtonVPN would be an excellent choice for any gamer. For starters, it has one of the largest networks I’ve seen (15,000+ servers in over 120 countries), meaning you can switch to virtually any region and access a huge variety of geo-blocked apps. It’s also great at going undetected by major games like Call of Duty, Overwatch 2, and Minecraft. If you need help, support staff are available 24 hours per day over live chat. Up to 10 devices can be secured at the same time.

Screenshot showing ProtonVPN's gaming servers
This provider has profiles configured for different needs, so whether you want a fast server for gaming, streaming, or P2P activity, you’re covered

For the best gaming experience, you’ll need a service capable of providing consistently-high speeds. I tested ProtonVPN’s American servers at various times of day, resulting in an average speed of 176.29 Mbps. For context, that’s fast enough to download a 1 GB file in less than a minute so gaming and streaming won’t be an issue. It could be slightly more reliable but 14 Mbps of fluctuation is well within expected limits. Let’s see how well ProtonVPN did:

This provider is perhaps best known for its exceptional privacy offering. It was, after all, created by the team behind the anonymity-focused Protom Mail service. Users can expect 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and an independently-verified no-logging policy. There are also plenty of advanced features including automatic tracker-blocking, a Stealth protocol, and port forwarding support (which is needed for stable connections on certain games).

ProtonVPN has manual setup instructions for a wide range of routers and also offers apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want one of the largest server networks (15,000+ across 120+ countries)
  • You want customizable server profiles for gaming, streaming, or torrenting
  • You require a VPN with obfuscation tools for beating strict digital censorship
  • You prioritize advanced security features, including port forwarding

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need a provider that includes a Smart DNS service
  • You want simple, non-technical apps without advanced settings

IDEAL FOR GAMING:ProtonVPN has the speed required for fast-paced online games and doesn’t compromise on privacy either. Refuses to keep any logs, works with most major streaming apps, and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on paid plans.

Check out our complete ProtonVPN review for more info.

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4. ExpressVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN

8.1

Scores calculated algorithmically.

Ease of use 9.0
Security & privacy 9.2
Streaming ability 9.7
US speed 5.7
Value for money 7.0

ExpressVPN is a fantastic option for securing any games console. Not only does this VPN offer servers in 105 countries and the ability to beat extreme online censorship in places like China, it actually comes with its own Smart DNS service. In other words, you can stream US content while abroad simply by tweaking a couple of your PS5’s network settings. There’s also custom router firmware which preserves most of the functionality of ExpressVPN’s apps, including ad-blocking functionality.

Streaming Netflix.
Streaming Netflix using ExpressVPN.

So how fast is ExpressVPN? I tested its US servers at various times of day to find out. Once all data was collected, this VPN had an average speed of 144.01 Mbps and about 15 Mbps of fluctuation. In other words, ExpressVPN is an easy way to get low ping on PS5 and ensure a lag-free experience playing games like GTA Online.

This service delivers a strong set of security tools, with most of them enabled automatically so that you can start gaming safely without any manual setup. ExpressVPN has unbreakable encryption, a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and an automatic ad and tracker-blocker. Just recently, it became able to block adult content too. Most importantly, this provider refuses to keep any logs of your online activities, and we know this for sure thanks to its lengthy audit history.

IP leak test.
ExpressVPN didn’t leak my UK-based IP address while connected.

This VPN now has a tiered pricing model, with higher connection limits and lower prices than ever before. Its router app is easy to install but if you need help, customer support are available 24/7 over live chat.

ExpressVPN has its own apps for MacOS, Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want custom router firmware for the easiest PS5 installation
  • You’d like a Smart DNS service that can be toggled directly from the router
  • You need reliable Netflix and streaming unblocking on your PS5
  • You prioritize the most consistent speeds rather than the fastest

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need specialized gaming servers
  • You want unlimited device connections under one subscription

EASY ROUTER INSTALLATION:ExpressVPN is a speedy service that can be installed on a router in minutes. Great for streaming, gaming, or torrenting. Impressive security offering. Also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Interested? Read the full ExpressVPN review for more details.

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5. IPVanish

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.IPVanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

IPVanish

7.9

Scores calculated algorithmically.

Ease of use 8.1
Security & privacy 8.7
Streaming ability 6.8
US speed 8.7
Value for money 7.3

IPVanish owns and operates all 3,200 of its servers, with 100+ countries to choose from and absolutely no limit on the number of devices you can protect. That alone would make it an attractive option for any gamer but there’s more; IPVanish excels at beating regional restrictions, flawlessly working with Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+, to name but a few platforms. Staff are ready to help via the 24/7 live chat service and in my opinion, this is one of the most newcomer-friendly VPNs around.

IPVanish's map of server locations.
Users can select a server location via the list or the map

When it comes to performance, IPVanish generally ranks quite highly. I tested its American servers at three different times of day using a 250 Mbps connection and recorded an average speed of 190.40 Mbps (with 14 Mbps of fluctuation). That’s an impressive result, certainly above what’s required for any everyday task including playing online games, torrenting, and live streaming your favorite shows.

You may be surprised to hear that IPVanish has a spectacular privacy offering too. To begin with, it uses unbreakable encryption backed up by a kill switch and leak protection. IPVanish can also block ads and trackers automatically, obfuscate your OpenVPN traffic, and tell you whether a link is safe to click or not. This service doesn’t log any details of your activities and has proven it with multiple audits. Finally, you can block LAN traffic or allow certain apps to bypass its encryption.

IPVanish provides manual setup guides for most wireless routers (including DD-WRT and Tomato), as well as Linux systems. Alternatively, you can install its Android, MacOS, Windows, or iOS apps.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want unlimited simultaneous device connections without restrictions
  • You need consistently high speeds (190+ Mbps average in tests)
  • You’d like to unblock Prime Video and Netflix alongside gaming
  • You want extra privacy options like traffic scrambling

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want to pay with cryptocurrency
  • You need Smart DNS for easy PS5 streaming (not included)

NO DEVICE LIMIT:IPVanish lets you protect all of your devices even without installing it on your router. Thanks to its fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth, it’s a strong choice for anyone looking to game safely. Annual plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our comprehensive review of IPVanish.

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6. CyberGhost

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost

7.7

Scores calculated algorithmically.

Ease of use 9.1
Security & privacy 8.9
Streaming ability 8.9
US speed 4.6
Value for money 7.2

CyberGhost is an extremely versatile yet beginner-friendly VPN with servers in more than 100 countries around the world. I particularly liked that it tells you which servers are best for gaming, torrenting, or accessing a given streaming service, since it removes trial and error from the equation entirely. Better still, this is one of the only VPNs that has ad-blocking functionality when installed on a router. You can connect seven devices at the same time and speak with staff using the 24/7 live chat service.

A selection of CyberGhost's gaming servers.
This VPN has fast servers designed to enhance your gaming experience

I measured CyberGhost’s performance in the morning, at midday, and in the afternoon. This VPN returned an average speed of 126.93 Mbps, which is well above the recommended speed for any day to day task. You’ll be able to play Fortnite, Roblox, and Warzone, without the slightest interruption so long as your base internet connection is reasonably quick (mine was 250 Mbps). Here are my full results:

This VPN comes packed with security and privacy features. For starters, it uses industry-approved encryption to ensure your activities stay hidden at all times. This is backed up with DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch, and a proven no-logs policy. CyberGhost’s other tools include an ad and tracker-blocker, split tunneling support, and a customizable smart rules system that governs automatic connections. Finally, there’s a Smart DNS service that can access American, German, Japanese, Dutch, or British streaming platforms (most only unblock US content).

CyberGhost's ad, tracker and malware blocker.
It’s easy to enable the CyberGhost ad, tracker and malware blocker.

CyberGhost must be manually installed on supported network routers. However, to keep you safe while away from home, it also offers apps for Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, and Linux.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want dedicated gaming servers specifically optimized for PS5
  • You’d like to be able to block ads, even with the VPN installed on a router
  • You want access to one of the largest server networks

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You need advanced functionality and customization options
  • You plan to use your PS5 in China

GREAT FOR NOVICES:CyberGhost boasts steady speeds, a 45-day money-back guarantee, and a comprehensive set of security features, not to mention great unblocking ability. Great for anyone interested in playing competitive, fast-paced games.

Read our complete review of CyberGhost.

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7. Private Internet Access

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Private Internet Access

6.9

Scores calculated algorithmically.

Ease of use 8.6
Security & privacy 9.3
Streaming ability 8.1
US speed 2.2
Value for money 6.5

Private Internet Access is a well-respected VPN that has plenty to offer gamers. To begin with, there are servers in 90+ countries, making it easy to change your PSN region and access geo-blocked platforms like Netflix abroad. Further, users are allowed to connect as many devices as they like, which isn’t something most VPNs can say. This service also offers detailed manual setup guides for most routers and if you need help, customer support staff are available day or night over live chat.

Streaming Amazon Prime Video.
Streaming Amazon Prime Video using PIA.

My next challenge was to see how quick Private Internet Access really is. I tested its American servers multiple times, culminating in an average speed of 148.62 Mbps. Thats’s a pretty good result. However, there was a huge amount of variance (over 90 Mbps), so it pays to try a few different servers to make sure you’re getting the best performance possible.

Private Internet Access is perfect for experienced users who’d like to customize their connection. That’s because virtually every element is customizable, from its encryption strength to the size of the packets sent. This VPN boasts a kill switch, leak protection, automatic ad and tracker-blocking, plus a stealth mode capable of beating most digital restrictions. It even has port forwarding support, which can help if you’re interested in setting up your own game servers. There is a strict no-log policy in place too, meaning your activities can’t be revealed under any circumstances.

IP leak test.
PIA didn’t leak my UK-based IP address while connected to one of its servers in the UAE.

Private Internet Access has manual setup guides for routers, as well as apps for Linux, MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You’d prefer advanced customization options for PS5 gaming optimization
  • You need unlimited device connections for households with multiple consoles
  • You want strong privacy and ad-blocking features while gaming

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You’re concerned about US jurisdiction for privacy
  • You want specialized gaming servers

HIGHLY CUSTOMIZABLE:PIA is a fast VPN with a robust privacy policy and customizable security tools. Great for streaming, gaming, or any other task. Allows any number of connections and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Check out our full Private Internet Access review to find out more

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8. PrivateVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN

5.9

Scores calculated algorithmically.

Ease of use 8.2
Security & privacy 8.6
Streaming ability 5.4
US speed 1.0
Value for money 6.5

PrivateVPN has a smaller network than some of its rivals, but it owns all of its hardware outright and even acts as its own ISP, meaning your traffic never passes through someone else’s infrastructure. There are 200 servers in 63 countries, and I was able to stream platforms like BBC iPlayer and Netflix without any issues. Users can connect up to 10 devices at the same time and speak with staff via the 24/7 live chat system. Torrenting is permitted across the entire network too!

Streaming Disney Plus.
Streaming Disney Plus using PrivateVPN.

During previous tests, I’ve seen PrivateVPN struggle to provide the same top speeds as its competitors. However, after my most recent tests, it delivered an average speed of 59.46 Mbps, which is nearly four times faster than is needed for streaming 4K video and quick enough for interruption-free gaming. There was around 11 Mbps of variance too, which is well within expected limits. Let’s see the full results:

This provider actually has a very robust privacy offering. It all begins with PrivateVPN’s AES encryption, which can be set at either 128-bits or 256-bits, depending on whether you want added security or faster speeds. There’s also DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a customizable kill switch, and a Stealth mode that works in high-censorship countries like ChinaPrivateVPN doesn’t keep any logs and supports split tunneling, allowing you to let specific apps through unencrypted.

PrivateVPN's Stealth VPN.
Stealth VPN is effective in countries that try to block VPN traffic.

PrivateVPN supports a wide range of routers and Linux distributions but you’ll have to install it manually. Further, it offers MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android apps.

Buy this VPN if:

  • You want exceptional unblocking ability for streaming services
  • You’d like a stealth mode to bypass country-wide censorship
  • You want comprehensive router support

Don’t buy this VPN if:

  • You want a large server network
  • You need specialized gaming servers

ZERO-LOG PROVIDER:PrivateVPN puts privacy above all else. It works in places with extreme censorship, boasts strong unblocking ability, and is very easy to use. Better still, all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Take a look at the full PrivateVPN review.

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Recent VPN Product Updates

I keep a close eye on any service I recommend so that I can come back and let you know about any significant updates they roll out. Here are a few of the biggest:

NordVPN

  • Linux tray improvements bring quick access to recent connections, location selection, and specialty servers (December 2025)
  • Email scanning in Threat Protection Pro™ flags unsafe Gmail and Yahoo links in real time (December 2025)
  • “Fastest server” on Windows now uses AI to pick the best server considering multiple network conditions, not just proximity (December 2025)
  • Open-sourcing the Linux app marked a step toward greater transparency and independent auditing (October 2025)

Surfshark

  • AI-based email scam detection added to Surfshark One and One+ bundles to block phishing attacks (December 2025)
  • Dedicated IP connections are now supported in the Linux GUI app for enhanced desktop control (December 2025)
  • The VPN’s network grew to 4,500+ servers globally (October 2025)
  • Bypasser feature now available on all platforms (April 2025)

Proton VPN

  • Support for iOS 16 and iPadOS 16 was dropped, meaning users must upgrade their operating system to continue receiving updates (January 2026)
  • Server listings now prioritize lower load servers over alphabetical order for better connection performance (December 2025)
  • NetShield enhanced with phishing protection (Spring 2025)
  • Streaming service compatibility expanded to nearly 100 platforms (Spring 2025)

ExpressVPN

  • Router v4.2.8 improved Lightway stability and performance (December 2025)
  • Linux users gained a redesigned app with Favorites, speed testing, and easier access to settings (November 2025)
  • Tiered subscription plans were rolled out, offering three pricing levels (September 2025)
  • ExpressVPN updated its iPad app with a cleaner, tablet-optimized design (October 2025)

Using a VPN on PS5: FAQs

Can I use a free VPN with my PS5?

It’s unlikely, as most free VPNs simply can’t be installed on a router. This might be for the best, though. Free services tend to have small networks and huge numbers of users, which leads to extremely slow speeds across the board. Even if you did find a free VPN that worked with your PS5, the connection would likely be too slow for any kind of streaming or gaming.

In addition, free VPNs come with myriad security concerns – such as a lack of basic encryption standards or shady data logging policies, which prevent me from recommending them.

How will a VPN affect my gaming experience?

The main benefit of using a VPN while gaming is that it enhances your privacy. For instance, the owner of a gaming server you’re using wouldn’t be able to see your real IP address. This also helps protect you against DDoS attacks, since anything short of an industrial-scale attack would be automatically detected and shrugged off by the VPN’s huge network.

Depending on the game, a VPN may also allow you to play with users from elsewhere in the world instead of those in the same country as you. This can be helpful, for instance, if you’d rather play team-based games with those who speak your native language. Note that while every VPN will have some impact on your connection speed, most major providers will be fast enough for lag-free gaming. Read more about this on our guide to latency and ping.