5 Best Free VPNs for Gaming in: Free VPNs aren’t the best choice for gaming. They often have limited server coverage, which could force you to connect to overcrowded or distant servers, leading to slower speeds and high ping. Additionally, many lack crucial gaming security features, like anti-DDoS protection, and place restrictions on data usage.
That’s why I always recommend a reasonably priced premium VPN like ExpressVPN — it will save you time and frustration in the long run.
However, if you’re specifically looking for a free VPN, there are a few solid options. After spending several weeks testing and researching the top free VPN plans, I’ve found the best ones for gaming. These VPNs offer fast speeds for smooth gameplay, help prevent packet loss from ISP issues or network congestion, include strong security features, and are compatible with both PC and consoles. Editors’ Note: ExpressVPN and this site are part of the same ownership group.
The Amazon FireStick is an incredibly powerful streaming device that has revolutionized the way we watch TV. Even if you don’t own a Smart TV, simply plug the FireStick into any HDMI port, and it instantly transforms your regular TV into a smart one with access to a wide range of streaming services. To take your FireStick experience to the next level, using a VPN is highly recommended. A FireStick VPN helps you bypass geo-restrictions and ISP throttling, ensuring uninterrupted and buffer-free streaming. Using a VPN with FireStick brings significant benefits, and one of the top options is ExpressVPN. This VPN offers excellent performance, strong encryption, and access to global content libraries. No matter where you are, ExpressVPN ensures a seamless, high-speed streaming experience with top-notch privacy protection. Plus, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free. If for any reason you're not satisfied (though it’s highly unlikely), you can get a full refund. With ExpressVPN on FireStick, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without any interruptions or concerns. Experts Recommended:
1. ExpressVPN — Best VPN for Gaming in 2025
ExpressVPN is my top pick for gaming in 2025. Although it doesn’t offer a free plan, it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
It delivers the fastest gaming speeds on the market thanks to its Lightway protocol, which is optimized for low latency and fast connections. During my tests, I barely noticed any drop in speed, with a ping of just 12ms while playing League of Legends. The protocol minimizes the impact on your PC’s performance, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions, and it reduces battery consumption on laptops.
Disclaimer
The following list is for educational purposes only. Firesticktricksapps does not create, own, host, run, manage, sell, or distribute any streaming apps, add-ons, websites, IPTV, or services. We also don’t earn commissions from featuring these services on our site. Our goal is to review and give an honest opinion from the end-user’s point of view to help people decide if these services are useful.
We cannot verify whether the services mentioned have legal licenses to distribute content everywhere. It’s up to our readers to make sure they are using these media services in line with the copyright laws of their countries. Firesticktricksapps assumes that all users are following the copyright rules in their region.
ExpressVPN also offers split-tunneling, which lets you route your game traffic through the VPN while keeping other traffic, like Discord, outside the VPN to avoid any lag. With servers in 105 countries, you can access specific in-game regions to improve matchmaking, bypass regional congestion, and even game during off-peak hours.
The router app makes it easy to set up ExpressVPN on consoles like Xbox and PlayStation without any manual configuration. It’s simple to install and works in under five minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for the provider’s Aircove router, which comes preinstalled with the app.
ExpressVPN also supports cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Amazon Luna, making it a versatile choice for gamers who prefer streaming their games.
2. Proton VPN — Best Free VPN for Gaming in 2025
Proton VPN offers the best free plan for gaming, providing unlimited data, which is rare for free VPNs, allowing you to game as much as you want without worrying about data caps. However, like most free VPNs, there are some limitations.
The free plan offers servers in 5 countries (US, Netherlands, Japan, Romania, and Poland). While it automatically connects you to the fastest and least crowded server, you can’t manually choose your server location. While it’s great for fast speeds, it means you can’t pick your ideal in-game region unless you disconnect and reconnect to try for a different location.
Proton VPN’s free version still offers excellent speeds for gaming, and I didn’t experience lag or high ping. However, it’s not as fast as ExpressVPN, especially when connecting to distant servers.
The free plan allows only one device connection, but you can configure Proton VPN on your router to protect all devices connected to your network.
For premium users, Proton VPN offers access to servers in 117 countries, including advanced features like VPN Accelerator, which boosts speeds on distant servers for improved ping.
3. hide.me — Multiple Free & Fast Server Locations
hide.me’s free plan stands out by offering fast speeds and access to 5+ server locations across the US, UK, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, France, and Finland. This makes it a solid choice for joining European game lobbies, and the unlimited ad-free data ensures you can play for as long as you like.
Despite its free plan having a speed cap, I was impressed by its performance. When testing games like Fortnite, I experienced low ping, minimal lag, and no unexpected disconnections. This is largely due to the use of the SoftEther VPN protocol, which is known for its fast speeds and is comparable to the more advanced WireGuard protocol (available only on paid plans). Proton VPN also offers WireGuard for free, if you prefer that.
hide.me’s free version also offers customization options, such as adjusting the MTU size to reduce packet loss caused by congestion, and reducing the reconnect interval for quick VPN reconnects. The ability to disable UDP acceleration also helps prevent lag and disconnections when the network is unstable.
hide.me’s premium plans unlock servers in 58 countries, giving you even more options for optimal gaming performance.
4. Hotspot Shield — Great for Gaming on Desktop + Fast Speeds
Hotspot Shield’s free plan is ideal for desktop gaming, providing unlimited data and fast speeds. However, it’s not recommended for mobile gaming, as it logs your IP address and forces you to watch ads every 15 minutes.
The free version gives you access to servers in the US, UK, and Singapore, providing good coverage for gaming in Europe, America, and Asia. You can even choose between New York or Los Angeles servers for better performance in the US.
In terms of gaming speeds, Hotspot Shield excels. In my tests, I had low ping while playing Hearthstone, and I didn’t face any lag. It uses its proprietary Hydra protocol and also supports WireGuard, both of which provide excellent performance for gaming.
Hotspot Shield’s paid plans give you access to 85 server locations, including servers optimized for gaming.
Bottom Line:
Hotspot Shield’s free version is great for desktop gaming. It offers unlimited data, fast speeds, and supports both Hydra and WireGuard protocols, making it a good option for lag-free gameplay.
5. Windscribe — User-Friendly Free VPN for Gaming
Windscribe is a user-friendly free VPN with easy-to-use apps and helpful guides for setting up your connection. It allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, which is convenient if you want to game on multiple devices without logging out.
Windscribe offers servers in 10+ countries and gives you up to 15 GB of data per month. To access the full 15 GB, you’ll need to provide your email address (2 GB by default), and you can earn additional data through a Twitter campaign or by signing up for their email list. For comparison, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive uses roughly 250 MB of data per hour, so 15 GB is good for about 60 hours of gaming each month. For those who need more, Proton VPN or hide.me offer unlimited data options.
One of Windscribe’s major benefits is that it doesn’t throttle your speeds. I was able to maintain a low ping during gameplay, and there were no random lag spikes.
Testing Methodology: Comparison & Ranking Criteria
To select and rank the best free VPNs for gaming, I followed a detailed testing methodology, considering various important factors such as data limits, gaming speeds, security features, and ease of use. Here’s an overview of the criteria I used:
- Data Allowance: I prioritized free VPNs that offer generous data limits. Many free VPNs impose daily or monthly data caps, so I focused on those that provide at least 15 GB per month. This is enough for a decent amount of gaming, with some providers like Proton VPN even offering unlimited data.
- Gaming Speeds: When using a VPN, there’s always a trade-off in speed due to the added encryption layer. Free VPNs tend to be slower than premium ones, but I tested all the VPNs on this list to ensure they deliver fast speeds, stable ping, and lag-free gaming.
- Security Features: I only included VPNs that meet industry-standard security protocols. This means all VPNs on the list come with 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch to prevent traffic leaks, and a no-logs policy. Additionally, most of these VPNs have DDoS protection, ensuring your connection remains stable during gaming sessions.
- User-Friendliness: I ranked only user-friendly VPNs. I tested apps that are easy to install and use, typically requiring no more than 2 minutes to download and install. It should also take 5–7 seconds to connect to a server, so you can start gaming without frustration.
- Value for Paid Plans: I considered VPNs that offer good value if you decide to upgrade to a paid plan. This includes access to helpful additional features like split-tunneling and servers in more locations. All top picks are affordable, and most come with a money-back guarantee.
How to Get a Free VPN Trial for Gaming
- Choose a Good Gaming VPN: I recommend ExpressVPN because it’s the fastest VPN, with excellent security for gaming, and it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Select the Best Plan: For the best value, I suggest choosing ExpressVPN’s longest-term plan.
- Create an Account: After selecting a plan, you’ll need to enter your email address and payment details. ExpressVPN offers multiple payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal.
- Download & Install the VPN: ExpressVPN will guide you to a page where you can easily download the app for your device. Don’t forget to copy the activation code to sign in.
- Log into Your Account: Once installed, log in by either entering the activation code or using a sign-in link sent to your email.
- Download the App on Other Devices: You can download ExpressVPN apps for other devices directly from their official website.
- Connect to a Server: Choose a server near you for the fastest speeds. Now you’re ready to game safely and with maximum performance on all your devices.
Risks & Disadvantages of Using a Free VPN for Gaming
- Weak Security: Many free VPNs fail to provide sufficient protection for online gaming. For instance, some lack full leak protection, which makes you vulnerable to DDoS attacks and other privacy issues. However, all the VPNs I’ve recommended in this list are secure and protect your privacy and data.
- Malware: Some free VPNs are essentially scams designed to expose you to malware and spyware, potentially leading to identity theft and financial losses. It’s crucial to choose a trusted provider to avoid these risks.
- Slow Speeds:
Free VPNs often restrict server access, forcing you to connect to either overcrowded servers or those located far away, which can increase your ping. In addition, some free VPNs limit connection speeds, resulting in slower gameplay. The VPNs I recommend ensure fast and stable speeds for smooth gaming sessions. - Data Restrictions: Free VPNs often impose daily or monthly data limits, restricting how long you can game. However, some VPNs like Proton VPN and hide.me provide unlimited data on their free plans, allowing you to game without interruptions.
- Selling Your Data: Some free VPNs may sell your data to third-party advertisers who use it for targeted ads. This is why it’s important to choose a VPN with a strict no-logs policy, especially one that has been independently audited to ensure your privacy is upheld.
Best VPN For Streaming
1. ExpressVPN — Best VPN With the Fastest Speeds for Smooth Streaming
| Best Feature | The fastest speeds we tested, ensuring you can stream, browse, game, and torrent without interruptions |
| Server Network | 3,000 servers in 105 countries give you fast worldwide connections |
| Simultaneous Device Connections | Up to 8, so you can protect your compatible devices under one subscription |
| Works With | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, DAZN, and more |
2. NordVPN — Best VPN With the Fastest Speeds for Smooth Streaming
| Best Feature | High security features and fast speeds for a reliable connection |
| Server Network | 5,400 servers in 60 countries for improved accessibility and connection speeds |
| Simultaneous Device Connections | Up to 6 devices, suitable for protecting multiple devices simultaneously |
| Works With | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, DAZN, and more |
Free vs. Paid VPNs for Gaming
The free VPNs I’ve listed offer essential security features like 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy, ensuring your gaming experience remains private. Some even offer advanced features like anti-DDoS protection, leak protection, and RAM-only servers that wipe data after every server reset. These features enhance your security and anonymity during gaming sessions.
However, most free VPNs fall short in comparison to premium VPNs. Free services often come with throttled speeds and data caps, which can greatly affect your gaming performance. Additionally, many free VPNs lack anti-DDoS protection, making you vulnerable to attacks that could disrupt your gameplay.
For instance, Proton VPN’s free plan offers unlimited data and good speeds, but it restricts you to servers in only 5 countries and doesn’t allow you to choose your preferred server. On the other hand, Hotspot Shield offers fast speeds and unlimited data, but it only allows one device connection.
Upgrading to a premium VPN offers significant improvements. Premium VPNs deliver faster speeds, access to a broader server network, and better security. Many also offer money-back guarantees, allowing you to test them risk-free.
Free VPNs vs. Paid VPNs for Gaming: A Comparison
| Feature | Free VPNs | Paid VPNs |
|---|---|---|
| Access to Entire Server Network | (Limited server options) | (Better server coverage for gaming) |
| Privacy | (Some free VPNs log and sell your data) | (Strict no-logs policy) |
| Security | (Missing advanced security features) | (Includes leak protection, DDoS protection, etc.) |
| Fast Speeds for Gaming | (Throttled speeds) | (Optimized for fast, lag-free gaming) |
| Unlimited Data | (Data caps) | (No data limits) |
| Multiple Device Connections | (Usually only 1 device allowed) | (Multiple devices allowed) |
| 24/7 Customer Support | (Limited or no support) | (Comprehensive support) |
| DDoS Protection | (Not available) | (Often included in paid plans) |
Free VPNs to Avoid for Gaming
- TouchVPN: While it has a large server network, it logs your IP address and online activities. It also has a 500 MB/day data cap, which is insufficient for serious gaming.
- Hola VPN: This is a peer-to-peer VPN that assigns you the IP addresses of other users, which could potentially get you in trouble if someone uses your IP for illegal activities.
- HoxxVPN: Known for keeping logs of personal data such as IP address, location, and online activities. This data may persist even after deleting your account.
- SuperVPN: It logs sensitive information like IP address and browser type, and it was involved in a significant data breach that exposed 133 GB of user data.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there any completely free VPNs that work well for gaming?
Yes! Proton VPN is the best 100% free VPN for gaming in 2025. It offers unlimited data, access to servers in 5 countries (Japan, US, Romania, Poland, and the Netherlands), and delivers impressive gaming speeds — making it a great choice for casual gamers on a budget.
While not free, ExpressVPN is also worth mentioning. It delivers ultra-fast speeds, excellent security, cloud gaming support, and easy-to-use apps across all platforms, including a dedicated router app for hassle-free console gaming.
Best VPN For Firestick Free Trial
Best overall VPN with a free trial
ExpressVPN
Privacy protection and transparency
Show our expert takeWill a VPN lower my ping?
Not usually. In most cases, a VPN will slightly increase your ping. That’s because your traffic gets rerouted through a VPN server, which adds extra distance and encryption time. However, if your ISP is throttling your connection, a VPN might bypass those restrictions and improve speeds.
All the free VPNs on this list offer stable connections, but if you’re a competitive or serious gamer, a premium VPN is a better investment for consistently low ping and lag-free gameplay.
What is the fastest VPN for gaming?
ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN available in 2025. In our tests, it delivered low ping, no lag spikes, and quick downloads, even for large game updates. It’s ideal for fast-paced online multiplayer games where performance matters.
Why should I use a VPN for gaming?
A gaming VPN gives you several key benefits:
- Privacy & security: It encrypts your traffic, keeping your data safe from hackers and snoopers.
- Protection from DDoS attacks: Especially useful in competitive environments.
- Bypass geo-restrictions: Access games or servers not available in your region.
- Avoid IP bans: Mask your real IP and continue gaming even after being banned.
- Combat ISP throttling: If your ISP slows down gaming traffic, a VPN can help bypass that.
For the best overall experience, ExpressVPN is my go-to recommendation — it’s fast, secure, and built with gamers in mind.
Can I use a free VPN to access games from other countries?
Yes, a free VPN can let you access region-locked content or join different regional lobbies. For instance, connecting to a European VPN server can help you get into EU-based Warzone lobbies.
However, free VPNs typically come with limited server options, so if the country you need isn’t included, you won’t be able to connect. A paid VPN like ExpressVPN, with servers in 105 countries, offers far more flexibility for accessing international gaming content.
Will a free VPN work with Steam?
Yes, free VPNs can work with Steam. Just connect to a server and log into your Steam account as usual. That said, while Steam doesn’t ban VPN usage, some individual games might — so be sure to check a game’s terms of service before using a VPN.
All the VPNs I’ve tested worked fine with Steam, but ExpressVPN stood out for its speed and smooth performance across all titles.
Can I use a free VPN on my PlayStation?
Yes, but setup is a bit more complex than on PC. PlayStation consoles don’t have built-in VPN support, so you’ll need to:
- Set up the VPN on your router (the most effective method), or
- Use your PC as a VPN-enabled hotspot.
VPNs that support routers usually offer clear step-by-step setup guides. I highly recommend ExpressVPN for console gaming — its dedicated router app makes installation a breeze, and I had it up and running in about 15 minutes.
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