7 Best VPNs for PS5: Access worldwide PSN content

There are plenty of reasons to use a VPN on your PlayStation 5. You could switch locations and see what’s available in other countries’ Netflix libraries, for instance, or access region-exclusive in-game events. However, it’s important to note that a VPN won’t let you change your PSN region since this is decided by the country you chose while creating your PlayStation account.

So how do VPNs work exactly? Essentially, they change your IP address by connecting you to a server elsewhere in the world. Because most geo-restricted platforms rely on this to tell where you are, accessing region-locked content is as simple as choosing a server in the correct country. Another major benefit of these services is that they encrypt your data, shielding it from the prying eyes of your ISP or anyone else who might be monitoring your network.

Looking for the short version? We’ve provided a quick look at the best VPNs for PlayStation 5 below. If any catch your eye, just scroll down for a more detailed review.

Best VPNs for PS5:

1. NordVPN Our #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 bandwidth limits. Unlimited simultaneous connections are supported. Solid speeds and a true no-logs policy.
3. 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.
4. ExpressVPN: A strong everyday VPN that works great with Netflix. Solid range of security and privacy features, plus a Smart DNS service that can be activated on PS5 in minutes.
5. CyberGhost: A great beginner option with fast speeds and a highly versatile Smart DNS service. Can access geo-restricted content on all kinds of streaming services and offers comprehensive security.
6. Private Internet Access: A fast and reliable VPN with servers in 91+ countries. Works with popular streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and iPlayer.
7. PrivateVPN: Boasts impressive unblocking ability for streaming Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu from anywhere. Comes with a great set of security and privacy features.

How we 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. We took this into account by testing providers in all of the following areas:

• Speed: To find the VPNs that were fast enough for lag-free streaming and gaming, we carried out multiple speed tests while connected to their servers in the US.
• Streaming ability: To gauge streaming ability, we 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: A good VPN will keep you safe online. This requires a suite of features, which we tested for using 16 different security and privacy criteria.
• Ease of use: Most people don’t want to use time that could be spent gaming on learning how to use VPN software. We found the most user-friendly providers by evaluating them against 10 ease-of-use metrics.
• Value for money: Considering what they can do, many VPNs are great value for money. Unfortunately, many aren’t. To identify which were which, we tested them against eight different criteria.

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

PS5 VPNs compared

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

Best VPN for PS5

Comparitech aims to publish the most accurate and helpful VPN recommendations online. To do that, our team uses and tests each VPN, and the following reviews are based on their first-hand experiences. Let’s take a closer look at the ones that impressed us.

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

1. NordVPN

Mar 2025

NordVPN is our top choice PS5 VPN. It’s uniquely suited for gaming as it’s the fastest VPN service we’ve tested by far. The provider consistently achieved speeds higher than 200 Mbps in the tests for this article, with an average overall speed of 211.49 Mbps.

With more than 7,400 servers in 118+ countries and impressive unblocking ability, NordVPN is also a great choice for streaming. It offers a Smart DNS service that allows PS5 owners to easily access apps like ABC, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.

One of NordVPN’s biggest strengths is its security. It uses effectively uncrackable 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks to keep you safe online.

Its apps also include a CyberSec feature that blocks ads and malware automatically. NordVPN is a zero-log provider, meaning it can’t reveal details of your activities for any reason. In addition to detailed router installation guides, this VPN offers 24/7 support over live chat.

NordVPN users can manually install this service on select routers or download apps for iOS, Windows, MacOS, Android, and Linux devices. There is a 30-day refund policy for you to test the service risk-free.

BEST VPN FOR PS5:NordVPN is our first choice. Extremely secure, speedy, and versatile, it’s perfect for PS5 users. What’s more, this service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can try it risk-free.

Read our full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark is more than fast enough for uninterrupted gaming or streaming. It offers access to over 3,200 servers in 100 countries and easily accesses tricky services like Disney+ and BBC iPlayer from abroad.

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

The provider was extremely quick in our tests, averaging a download speed of 191.04 Mbps.

Although there was a fair amount of variance between the individual results, even the slowest speed would be more than fast enough for smooth gaming and streaming.

This service certainly has a lot to offer from a security perspective. There’s AES 256-bit encryption to start with, plus a kill switch and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. App users also have access to a stealth mode for bypassing stubborn geo-blocking and a CleanWeb mode that blocks ads and trackers automatically.

Surfshark doesn’t keep any logs and runs a 24/7 live chat-based help desk in case of any issues. A connection can be manually configured for use with supported routers. It also provides iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows, and Linux apps.

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is a low-cost VPN that nonetheless boasts a strong security offering, high speeds, and fantastic unblocking capabilities. Further, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee included.

For more information, check out our Surfshark review.

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3. IPVanish

IPVanish is a great VPN choice. It offers more than 2,400 servers in 140+ locations, which users can select from the map on the app’s dashboard.

Whichever server you decide on, you can expect very high speeds and unlimited bandwidth. In our tests, IPVanish was consistently fast.

Overall, it achieved an impressive average download speed of 190.40 Mbps, more than 52 Mbps faster than the combined average speed of the other tested providers.

Installing IPVanish on a DD-WRT or Tomato router is fairly straightforward and can be done in under an hour. Finally, as there’s no connection limit, you can stream and browse safely, even when away from home.

This VPN’s security features include a kill switch, 256-bit encryption, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Further, the apps provide even greater privacy by allowing you to scramble your traffic and block local connections outright.

IPVanish follows a strict no-logging policy, so your activities can’t be revealed under any circumstances. 24/7 support is available over email or live chat.

IPVanish can be manually installed on select wireless routers and Linux systems. Additionally, it also has apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android.

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. A 30-day money-back guarantee is also included.

Read our comprehensive review of IPVanish.

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4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a solid option for gaming. With 3,000+ servers in 105+ countries, this VPN offers plenty of choices and guarantees a fast, stable connection. This means a lag-free experience while playing your favorite PS5 games like GTA Online.

In our tests, the provider averaged 147.34 Mbps while we connected to US servers.

While not quite as fast as the previously mentioned VPNs, it was quicker than the other three providers in this list.

ExpressVPN is the only service in this list to offer custom router firmware, which helps simplify the installation process. It also has MediaStreamer, its own Smart DNS service that works well with major streaming services like Netflix. Notably, users can switch this on and off directly from the router app.

This service keeps your data secure with 256-bit AES encryption. It also offers a kill switch that stops sending data the second your connection drops, plus DNS and IPv6 leak protection. Finally, there’s the option to block access to local devices for even greater security.

Most importantly, ExpressVPN refuses to log any data that could identify you. For help with any problems, you can reach support at any time via email or live chat.

ExpressVPN has its own custom firmware that makes it easier to install on your router. Naturally, there are also apps for MacOS, Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS.

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. CyberGhost

CyberGhost has over 10,000 high-speed servers in 100+ countries, so you won’t have to worry about lag or high ping during evening or weekend gaming sessions. What’s particularly impressive is that CyberGhost has dedicated gaming servers to have the best possible online gaming experience, whether playing Fortnite, Roblox, Warzone, or anything else.

Speeds are fast enough for a variety of online tasks. In our tests, CyberGhost achieved an average download speed of 126.93 Mbps — which is fast enough for gaming, streaming or torrenting. 

Additionally, this service offers a great Smart DNS feature that lets you start using German, Japanese, Dutch, British, or American services in moments. Stream a lot on the go? No problem: you can have up to seven simultaneous connections, and your router only counts as one.

This VPN offers a wealth of security features, including a kill switch, IPv6 and DNS leak protection, and 256-bit encryption. Its apps also allow you to block ads, malware, and trackers.

Better still, CyberGhost doesn’t store any personally identifiable data, which means that your activities can’t be traced back to you. If you need help, customer support staff are available 24/7 via live chat and email.

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.

GREAT FOR NOVICES:CyberGhost Boasts decent speeds, a 45-day money-back guarantee, and a comprehensive set of security features, not to mention great unblocking ability. CyberGhost is more than capable of handling anything you throw at it.

Read our complete review of CyberGhost.

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6. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a US-based VPN provider that is highly regarded for its commitment to user privacy and security. With customizable applications, gamers can adjust encryption and network settings to optimize performance for their PlayStation 5.

PIA is an ideal choice for PS5 users looking to access regional game servers and watch regional streaming services. The VPN provides servers in over 91 countries, greatly enhancing the ability to connect to game servers in different regions for potentially better matchmaking and access to games and content not available in your area.

It also allows for the viewing of geo-restricted streaming content, including popular services like Netflix and Hulu, as well as regional options depending on the server location.

This VPN also excels in protecting against ISP snooping and securing connections on public Wi-Fi networks, which is crucial for gamers who demand consistent and uninterrupted gaming sessions. PIA supports P2P activities, which is beneficial for gamers sharing large files or updates.

PIA comes equipped with advanced security features such as a kill switch, leak protection, and an ad blocker. These features ensure that your gaming and streaming activities are secure and private.

While the VPN generally offers decent speeds, it’s advisable to test different servers to find the best one for your gaming and streaming needs. In our test of randomly chosen US servers, PIA achieved speeds of between 57.3 Mbps and 148.62 Mbps — which is quite a difference, and well worth swapping servers for. 

PIA’s flexible settings for encryption, port configurations, and DNS options further enhance its usability for PS5 gamers.

The setup process is straightforward, compatible with all major operating systems, and allows for unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a top choice for gamers and families. Gamers can try PIA risk-free with its money-back guarantee to ensure it meets their needs for accessing regional game servers and streaming services on PlayStation 5.

HIGHLY CUSTOMIZABLE:PIA is a fast VPN with a robust privacy policy and servers in 91+ countries. Robust security features, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, obfuscation, and DNS leak protection. Works to access international services, including Netflix USA. PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections and provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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

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7. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN may only have around 200 servers in 63 countries, but it helps make up for it with exceptional unblocking ability. While connected, you’ll be able to use platforms like HBO Max, Hulu, and Peacock without issue.

PrivateVPN’s speeds aren’t the fastest, which we discovered while testing its US servers. Speeds varied from a low of 53.79 Mbps to a high 64.03 Mbps.

While this might seem slow compared to the other providers in this list, it’s still quick compared with the majority of VPNs. To put it into perspective, PrivateVPN’s average speed is more than twice that needed to satisfy Netflix’s minimum speed requirement for streaming in 4K.

Thanks to PrivateVPN’s powerful 256-bit encryption, kill switch, and leak protection, your data remains hidden from snoopers at all times. There’s also a stealth mode designed for bypassing country-wide censorship in places like China.

PrivateVPN doesn’t keep any logs at all, so your privacy is in good hands. Support staff can be reached via live chat 22 hours per day.

PrivateVPN supports a wide range of routers and Linux distributions, although you’ll have to install it manually. Further, it offers MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android apps. It allows app users to secure up to 10 devices at once while away from home.

ZERO-LOG PROVIDER:PrivateVPN puts privacy above all else. That said, its security features are top-notch, as is its unblocking ability. Additionally, all of this service’s plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Take a look at the full PrivateVPN review.

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Methodology: How we chose the best PS5 VPNs

There are a few special things to consider when buying a VPN for your PlayStation 5 console. For smooth gameplay, you’ll need high-speed servers and low-latency connections. Further, since the PS5 can’t install apps directly, it’s a good idea to get one that can be installed on a router. Below, you’ll find the most important things we looked for in a PS5 VPN:

Speed

Slow speeds make for underwhelming gameplay. To find the fastest, we carried out three speed tests for each provider: one in the morning, one at noon, and one in the evening.

Speeds were measured using the desktop version of the Ookla speed-testing app. We rate-limited our base connection speed to approximate that of the average user in the States (which was 274.16 Mbps at the time of writing).

Once we’d gathered the results, we averaged them and then converted them to a score out of 10.

NordVPN was the clear winner relative to the other providers. Joint-second place went to Surfshark and IPVanish, which both had scores of 8.7. All three are great options for ensuring you have the fastest connection speeds while gaming.

Streaming ability

We started by scoring each provider based on the size of their server networks. More servers makes congestion less likely and gives you more control over who you play with if your chosen game doesn’t let you switch regions.

Next, we scored providers’ ability to access different Netflix libraries around the world. Finally, we scored them on whether they offered a smart DNS feature to allow PS5 users to spoof their location.

To make direct comparison of providers easier, we took the resulting scores, averaged them, and then converted them to an overall score out of 10.

The highest scoring providers were NordVPN and CyberGhost with 9.6. Surfshark also performed notably well, with a score of 9.3. All three are solid options if you need a VPN for streaming on your PS5.

Security and privacy

Unfortunately, not everyone you play with has your best interests at heart. To protect against threats like doxxing and SWATTING, we looked for VPNs that met a majority of the criteria in the table below:

Each criteria was assigned a score, and these scores summed to generate an overall score out of 10.

NordVPN and Surfshark both scored an impressive 9.5. These are the two providers to go for if you’re keen to keep yourself and other members of your family safe online,

Ease of use

Naturally, we prefer VPNs that are easy to use. This doesn’t just mean having clean, uncluttered apps, though; we also look for those that can perform well against the metrics in the table below.

To make it easier to compare providers, we scored each metric and then combined the scores. This gave us an overall score out of 10 for each VPN.

NordVPN and PIA scored highest on our ease-of-use metrics. Both providers have well-designed apps and make it easy for users to start and end subscriptions.

Value for money

Not all VPNs are worth the investment. Some clearly overcharge, while others initially seem cheap, but recoup their costs in other ways. Others, however, are great value. We work out which is which using the criteria shown in the table below.

We assign a score to each of these criteria, and sum them to produce an overall score out of 10. This makes comparison a little easier — particularly for a concept as slippery as “value”.

Surfshark scored highest overall — largely thanks to a low monthly cost and unlimited simultaneous device connections. IPVanish is a great alternative for similar reasons.

Note: You can read more about our testing methodology here. Each of the VPNs on this page is a great option for gaming on PS5, but if you plan to use other consoles and devices, we recommend you read our guide to VPNs for gaming or VPNs for Xbox.

Setting up a VPN on PS5

PS5s don’t support native VPN apps, so you can’t install a VPN straight onto your console. There are three main methods of using a VPN on a PS5: Installing it directly onto your router, using a Smart DNS service, or sharing a connection with your computer.

Want to know more? We cover all three configurations in our dedicated guide to setting up a VPN on PS5.

Using a VPN on PS5: FAQs