The Xbox Series X doesn't support native VPN apps, but you can still protect your connection with a VPN router, SmartDNS, or a shared connection from your PC. We tested the top VPNs for low latency, DDoS protection, and region unlocking to find the best fit for your console.
the xbox series x is a beast of a console, but it has one annoying limitation: it doesn't support native VPN apps.1 that means you can't just install a VPN and toggle it on like on your phone or PC. instead, you need a workaround — a VPN-enabled router, a shared connection from your Windows or Mac computer, SmartDNS, or a proxy setup.1
why bother? three big reasons:
we tested the top VPNs on latency, server footprint, and how easy they are to set up on Xbox. here's what we found.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Latency (Ping) | ~25–40ms | ~30–50ms | ~35–55ms |
| Servers | 3,000+ in 105 countries | 6,000+ in 129 countries | 3,200+ in 100 countries |
| Setup Ease | Aircove router + SmartDNS | Meshnet + SmartDNS | SmartDNS + router config |
expressVPN consistently delivers the lowest ping we've seen on Xbox — around 25–40ms depending on your location. that's barely noticeable in fast-paced shooters like Call of Duty or Halo Infinite.
they sell their own Aircove VPN router, which is the easiest way to get a VPN on your Xbox: plug the console into the Aircove, and everything is encrypted without any software config. if you'd rather not buy new hardware, expressVPN also offers SmartDNS (called MediaStreamer), which works on Xbox directly for streaming but doesn't encrypt your traffic.
specs:
nordVPN runs the largest server network of any VPN we tested — 6,000+ servers across 129 countries.2 that's a huge advantage if you want to access Game Pass libraries or streaming catalogs from specific regions.
nordVPN's Meshnet feature lets you route traffic through another device, which can be handy for Xbox setups. they also offer SmartDNS (called SmartPlay) for unblocking streaming content directly on the console. for full encryption, you'll need to set up nordVPN on a router or share the connection from a PC.
specs:
surfshark is the pick for competitive gamers who want serious DDoS protection without spending a lot. their servers use 10Gbps ports and they offer unlimited simultaneous connections — so you can protect your Xbox, PC, phone, and your whole household on one plan.
surfshark's SmartDNS feature (called GPS Override) works on Xbox for region-unblocking. for full encryption, you'll need a router-level setup. the unlimited device policy means you can share the connection across everything you own.
specs:
you have four options, from easiest to most technical:
buy a router with a VPN pre-installed (like expressVPN's Aircove) or flash your existing router with custom firmware. connect your Xbox via ethernet or Wi-Fi — everything is encrypted automatically. no per-device config needed.
on your PC, connect to your VPN, then open Network Settings and enable "Mobile hotspot" or share the VPN connection via ethernet to your Xbox. this works well if your PC is near your console.
similar to Windows: connect your Mac to the VPN, go to System Settings → Sharing → Internet Sharing, and share the VPN connection to your Xbox via ethernet or Wi-Fi.
SmartDNS doesn't encrypt your traffic, so it won't protect you from DDoS attacks or ISP throttling. but it's the simplest way to unblock region-locked streaming content on Xbox — just change your DNS settings in the console's network menu.
gamers worry that a VPN will add lag. in our testing, the best VPNs add only 25–55ms of latency — fine for most games. if you're a pro-level competitive player, connect to the nearest server to keep ping as low as possible. expressVPN is your best bet here.
if you want the lowest latency and easiest setup, go with expressVPN. if you need access to servers in as many countries as possible, nordVPN is the choice. and if you're on a budget and want unlimited device connections with strong DDoS protection, surfshark delivers.
we may earn a commission if you purchase through our links — at no extra cost to you. we only recommend VPNs we've tested and believe in.
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