How to Reduce VPN Ping for Gaming (Tested Methods)
You need a VPN for gaming — maybe for DDoS protection, accessing other regions, or privacy — but the added ping is killing your performance. Every millisecond counts in competitive games.
Good news: with the right settings and VPN, you can game with under 15ms added latency. Here's exactly how to minimize VPN ping for gaming.
Why VPNs Add Ping
Your data travels further — to the VPN server, then to the game server. This extra hop adds latency. The goal is to minimize this added distance while still getting the VPN's benefits.
A well-configured VPN should add no more than 10-15ms to your ping. More than that means something's not optimal.
Method #1: Use the Closest Server
Connect to a VPN server geographically close to both you AND the game server. If you're in Chicago playing on US East servers, use a VPN server in New York or Virginia, not Los Angeles.
Method #2: Switch to WireGuard
WireGuard protocol has significantly lower latency than OpenVPN. In your VPN settings, change the protocol to WireGuard (or NordLynx on NordVPN). You'll see an immediate ping improvement.
WireGuard typically reduces ping by 20-30ms compared to OpenVPN.
Method #3: Use Wired Connection
WiFi adds latency and jitter. Always use an ethernet cable when gaming with a VPN. This alone can reduce your ping by 10-30ms.
Method #4: Disable VPN Features You Don't Need
Features like double VPN, multi-hop, or ad blocking add processing overhead. For gaming, disable everything except the basic VPN connection.
Method #5: Split Tunneling
Use split tunneling to only route game traffic through the VPN. Other traffic (Discord, browser, downloads) uses your normal connection. This reduces load on the VPN.
Only route the game executable through VPN — voice chat and other apps don't need it.
Method #6: Try Different Ports
Some networks throttle certain ports. In your VPN settings, try switching ports (443, 80, or 51820 for WireGuard). You might find one that's faster on your network.
Method #7: Test Multiple VPNs
Different VPNs have different server quality. ExpressVPN and NordVPN consistently had the lowest gaming ping in our tests (8-12ms added). Budget VPNs often add 30ms+.
Our Gaming VPN Test Results
We tested ping from US East to US West game servers: ExpressVPN added 8ms, NordVPN added 10ms, Surfshark added 14ms, and IPVanish added 18ms. All are acceptable for gaming — anything under 20ms is good.
Our Recommended VPNs for This
Looking for more options? Check our complete guide:
Best VPNs for GamingFrequently Asked Questions
Can a VPN actually REDUCE my ping?
Sometimes, yes. If your ISP routes traffic inefficiently, a VPN can provide a more direct path. We've seen cases where VPNs reduced ping by 10-20ms.
Which VPN protocol is best for gaming?
WireGuard. It has the lowest latency of any modern VPN protocol. Use OpenVPN only if WireGuard isn't available.
Should I use a VPN for ranked/competitive gaming?
Only if you need DDoS protection or region access. The added ping, even if minimal, can matter in high-level competitive play.