Consoles like PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch don't have native VPN apps — so you need a router-based setup or Smart DNS. We tested the top VPNs for low latency, DDoS protection, and NAT type management to find the best options for console gaming.
PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch are incredible gaming machines, but they share one frustrating limitation: none of them support native VPN apps.1 That means you can't just download a VPN client and toggle it on. Instead, you need a workaround — a router-level VPN, a virtual router setup, or Smart DNS — to get the benefits of a VPN on your console: lower ping routes, DDoS protection, better NAT types, and access to region-locked content.1
We've combed through the latest reviews and technical guides to find the VPNs that actually deliver on console gaming. Here's what we recommend.
NordVPN is our top pick for console gaming thanks to NordLynx, its proprietary WireGuard-based protocol that keeps latency impressively low.1 In CNET's testing, NordVPN performed well for competitive gaming and streaming.2 It offers a massive server network (over 6,000 servers in 111 countries), so you're never far from a fast connection. Setup requires installing NordVPN on a compatible router or using a virtual router via a spare PC. Once configured, your PS5, Xbox, or Switch gets full protection with minimal ping impact.
| Protocol | Router-Friendly | Device Limit |
|---|---|---|
| NordLynx (WireGuard) | Yes — manual config or pre-flashed routers | 10 simultaneous |
ExpressVPN is the easiest option if you don't want to fiddle with router settings. Their Aircove router comes pre-configured with ExpressVPN — plug it in, connect your console, and you're done.1 The Lightway protocol with Turbo mode hit 1,617 Mbps in TechRadar's testing, which is more than enough for lag-free gaming.3 ExpressVPN also supports Smart DNS (MediaStreamer), so you can use it on consoles that don't allow full VPN router setups.
| Protocol | Router-Friendly | Device Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Lightway (proprietary) | Yes — Aircove router included | 8 simultaneous |
If you have multiple consoles (say, a PS5 and a Switch) or roommates who also game, Surfshark's unlimited simultaneous connections are a game-changer.1 You can set up a router VPN for the whole house and never worry about hitting a device cap. Surfshark uses WireGuard for fast speeds, and its CleanWeb feature blocks ads and malware at the network level — a nice bonus for console browsing and store access.
| Protocol | Router-Friendly | Device Limit |
|---|---|---|
| WireGuard | Yes — manual config | Unlimited |
CyberGhost stands out with gaming-optimized servers that are specifically configured for low ping and high throughput.1 These dedicated servers take the guesswork out of finding a fast connection. CyberGhost also offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, giving you plenty of time to test it with your console setup. It supports WireGuard and works with most major router firmware.
| Protocol | Router-Friendly | Device Limit |
|---|---|---|
| WireGuard | Yes — manual config | 7 simultaneous |
Three things matter most for console gaming over VPN:
Low ping. Every millisecond counts in competitive shooters and fighting games. A well-optimized VPN with WireGuard or a similar modern protocol can actually improve your route to game servers in some cases, reducing lag.1
DDoS protection. If you play competitive online games, your IP address can be targeted by malicious players. A VPN hides your real IP, making DDoS attacks much harder to pull off.1
NAT type management. Strict NAT (or Type 3 on PlayStation) can prevent you from joining parties or voice chat. A VPN can help achieve a Moderate (Type B) or Open (Type A) NAT, improving matchmaking and connectivity.1
Since consoles don't have VPN apps, you have three options:
For most console gamers, NordVPN is the best balance of speed, server count, and reliability. If you want the simplest setup possible, ExpressVPN with the Aircove router is the no-fuss answer. Surfshark wins for households with many devices, and CyberGhost is the pick if you want servers tuned specifically for gaming.
We may earn a commission if you purchase through our links — it doesn't affect our recommendations, and we only recommend services we've vetted through trusted sources.
This page was written by the engine and the engine is still on the line. The conversation below picks up where the article stops.
Yes — the picks above are the engine's current verdicts. Ask a sharper version of this question below and you'll get a custom answer with the latest pricing.