Best VPNs for PUBG: Unrestricted, lag-free gaming

Looking to level up your PUBG gaming experiences? A PUBG VPN can be a game-changer whether you’re after exclusive skins, trying to dodge geo-blocks, or just sneaking in a quick match during your break.

VPNs encrypt your online activities and reroute your traffic through a server in a location of your choice. This not only helps you bypass restrictions but also keeps your connection private. By switching your server location, you can optimize your connection speed and game server interactions for a smoother, lag-free experience. Pressed for time? Scroll down for our top VPN picks for PUBG, each dissected in detail further on.

Best VPNs for PUBG:

1. NordVPN Our #1 choice for PUBG. This service offers blazing speeds, strong security features, a strict no-logging policy, and access to over 6,000 high-speed servers worldwide. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for PUBG.
2. Surfshark: Best budget alternative PUBG VPN. Has no connection limit. It also offers decent speeds and a strong commitment to your security.
3. ExpressVPN: This service boasts fast speeds, strong security, and servers in more than 100 countries. Great for gaming, including PUBG.
4. CyberGhost: Provides fast connections, unlimited bandwidth, and a wide range of powerful yet easy-to-use security features.
5. IPVanish: With very high speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and a zero-logs policy, IPVanish makes it easy to unblock and play PUBG from anywhere.
6. PrivateVPN: Strong security and privacy protections coupled with fast, reliable connections make this VPN an excellent choice for PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds.
7. Hotspot Shield: A speedy, novice-friendly VPN with powerful security features and the ability to unblock PUBG from just about anywhere.
8. PureVPN: The cheapest VPN that works to unblock PUBG. Fast speeds for gaming and streaming.
9. ProtonVPN: A highly advanced VPN that is ideal for techy users. Works to gain online privacy and to play PUBG at work or in countries where it is blocked.

Criteria for the best PUBG VPNs

Selecting a VPN for PUBG doesn’t have to be a maze. The key is to find a versatile service that excels in multiple areas. With that in mind, we’ve narrowed down VPNs that meet the following criteria:

• A large network of high-speed servers for stable gaming experiences.
• Bypass geo-blocks and play PUBG from virtually any location.
• Robust encryption and additional security features to protect your online activities.
• A strict no-logs policy to keep your identity under wraps.
• Apps are available for all major operating systems and devices.
• Good, reliable customer service if needed.
• Fair pricing with a money-back guarantee.

Best VPNs for PUBG

Read on to find out more about the best VPNs for playing PUBG online:

1. NordVPN

Dec 2024

NordVPN is our top pick for PUBG. It has over 6,000 servers spread across 100+ countries. This is the fastest VPN we’ve tested and is great for streaming 4K video on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, so you shouldn’t experience any lag while playing PUBG. With up to 10 simultaneous connections allowed, NordVPN lets you watch whatever you want, wherever you want.

This service is known for its strong security. There’s 256-bit AES encryption, a customizable kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks, as well as automatic ad-blocking and malware-scanning. In fact, there are even specific servers optimized for use in countries with strict online restrictions. NordVPN has a strict no-logging policy but you can always pay with Bitcoin for added anonymity. You can reach customer support 24/7 over live chat in case of any issues.

NordVPN offers Linux, macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS apps. It can be manually installed on supported network routers.

BEST VPN FOR PUBG:NordVPN is our first choice for PUBG as it boasts top speeds, a wide range of security and privacy protections, a no-logs policy, and access to over 6,000 high-speed servers worldwide. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee making this a risk-free deal.

Read our comprehensive review of NordVPN.

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is an excellent low-cost VPN that provides access to more than 3,200 servers across 100+ countries. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to game, thanks to its reasonably high speeds and unlimited bandwidth. What’s more, as this VPN has no connection limit, you can simultaneously protect every single device you own.

This VPN uses 256-bit encryption, protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch to keep your traffic hidden at all times. It also has a feature that blocks ads and scans for malware automatically, as well as another that lets you bypass country-wide internet restrictions. Surfshark doesn’t log any information that could identify you, but if you’re worried about privacy, you can pay with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Ripple. If you run into trouble, support is on-hand 24/7 over live chat.

Surfshark offers Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS apps. Manual configuration is required for use with home routers.

BEST BUDGET PICK:Surfshark offers exceptional versatility, decent speeds, and strong security features. Best of all, it has no connection limit, allowing you to play on whichever device you prefer. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included.

Read the full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN currently operates around 3,000 servers in 100+ countries, so it’s ideal for securely using services like Netflix US, Sling TV, and PUBG. Better still, this VPN boasts high speeds and unlimited bandwidth, meaning you won’t have to worry about lag when playing. If you’d prefer to game on the go, that’s no problem, as ExpressVPN lets you connect up to five devices at once.

This service protects your traffic using 256-bit AES encryption and protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks. There’s also a kill switch (sometimes called a “network lock”) that stops all data transferal should you lose connection to the VPN suddenly. You’re free to pay with Bitcoin for greater anonymity, but as ExpressVPN doesn’t log any information that could identify you, this step is completely optional. Customer support is on hand 24/7 over live chat.

ExpressVPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices. There’s also custom firmware for routers that makes it as easy as possible to protect all of your devices at once.

GOOD ALL-ROUNDER:ExpressVPN is another solid choice for PUBG. It’s a fast and reliable service that puts major emphasis on your security and privacy. Plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Interested? Check out our full ExpressVPN review for more details.

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4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost has one of the largest networks around, with more than 10,000 servers in 100+ countries. This means it’s easy to get a low-latency connection wherever you are in the world. As well as unblocking PUBG, CyberGhost allows you to securely access major streaming platforms like Netflix US and BBC iPlayer, so there are very few limits on what you can do. This service allows up to seven simultaneous connections, which is more than many of its rivals.

This is a very user-friendly service in that all of the security features come enabled by default. These include DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, 256-bit encryption, an ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and a kill switch (available in every version). Best of all, CyberGhost doesn’t log any personally identifiable information. Live chat-based support is available 24/7 in case of any issues.

CyberGhost has apps for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows. If you’d like to use this service on your Linux system or wireless router, you’ll have to configure it manually.

BEST BUDGET VPN FOR PUBG:CyberGhost is the best budget VPN for PUBG. It offers high speeds and pre-configured security features, plus it comes with a very generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

To find out more, take a look at the complete CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

IPVanish is a very fast VPN that has around 2,000 servers in 60+ countries. This service works well with platforms like Netflix US and Hulu, so you shouldn’t have any trouble accessing PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds at work or college. Another standout feature of this VPN is that it permits an unlimited number of connections at once; not half bad considering most only allow five or so.

Don’t be fooled by IPVanish’s simplistic apps; there are actually quite a few advanced security features built-in. Your activities are kept hidden using a combination of 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch, but you also have the ability to scramble your traffic or block local connections entirely. IPVanish doesn’t keep any logs, so your activities cannot be traced back to you. Need help? You can reach customer support via live chat, 24/7.

IPVanish provides apps for iOS, macOS, Android, and Windows devices. It can be manually configured for use with Linux systems and select internet routers.

HIGH SPEEDS, LOW LATENCY:IPVanish is a very fast VPN with no connection limit, but it also boasts powerful security features and a zero-logs policy. This service comes with a seven-day money-back guarantee.

We take a closer look at this service in our full IPVanish review.

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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN doesn’t have as many servers as some of its rivals (roughly 200 across 60+ countries) but it offers better-than-average speeds. As well as enabling you to play PUBG anywhere, PrivateVPN lets you securely access services like Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Up to 10 devices can be connected at once.

This VPN protects your traffic from snoopers using IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection, a kill switch (Windows only), and 256-bit AES encryption. You can also scramble your data, allowing you to use networks that usually block VPN connections. PrivateVPN has a no-logs policy, so once connected, you’re effectively anonymous. You can choose to pay in Bitcoin if you’d prefer an extra layer of anonymity. Support is available over live chat 22 hours per day.

PrivateVPN has iOS, Windows, Android, and macOS apps. This service also works on Linux-based platforms and wireless routers but must be installed manually first.

FAST, SECURITY-CONSCIOUS VPN:PrivateVPN puts your speed first but security comes in a close second. With reliable connections, a no-logs policy, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, this VPN is ideal for anyone looking to protect themselves while playing PUBG online.

Check out our complete PrivateVPN review.

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7. Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield offers access to 1,800+ servers throughout more than 80 countries. With no data limits, unrestricted bandwidth, and consistently high speeds, this service is an excellent choice for anyone looking to game. It works with platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Sling TV as well. Up to five simultaneous connections are permitted.

This VPN comes with 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection enabled by default. That’s not all, though: there’s also automatic wifi protection and the ability to let certain apps bypass the VPN (a feature known as split tunneling). Hotspot Shield doesn’t keep logs of any identifying information after you’ve disconnected. You can contact customer support over live chat, 24/7.

Hotspot Shield comes with apps for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. Manual installation is required for Linux systems and supported routers.

UNBLOCK PUBG ANYWHERE:Hotspot Shield is fast, strong on security, and capable of unblocking a wide range of popular services (including PUBG). This VPN comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

For more information, check out the full Hotspot Shield review.

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8. PureVPN

PureVPN is an excellent choice for gamers, especially those focused on playing PUBG. Located in the British Virgin Islands, it operates away from intrusive jurisdictions like the US and the UK. With a vast network spanning over 6,000 servers in more than 65 countries, PureVPN enables gamers to change IP addresses, bypass geo-restrictions, access easier lobbies, reduce lag, and protect against DDoS attacks in tournaments, including accessing PUBG in countries where it isn’t available.

Despite its affordability, PureVPN ensures robust privacy with features like a no-logs policy, AES encryption, and DNS leak protection. These are crucial for gamers to avoid ISP throttling, bypass network restrictions, and secure their connections, particularly on public wifi, enabling gameplay at work or on campus without monitoring.

PureVPN’s compatibility with streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu adds value for gamers who also enjoy streaming entertainment. In tests, it successfully accessed streaming providers in the US, the UK, Canada, France, Germany, and Japan, catering superbly to international users and people who want unlimited online freedom.

While the additional cost for port forwarding may not be critical for all gamers, it’s a valuable option for those who also seed torrents. With live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee, PureVPN allows gamers to test its compatibility with PUBG and other games risk-free. Plus, it is secure enough to play PUBG at work without being tracked.

CHEAP PUBG VPN:PureVPN is the cheapest, fast VPN for playing PUBG. It has servers in 65+ countries to play PUBG in countries where it is blocked. Port forwarding is available for torrenting at an extra cost. Works to access Netflix US, Hulu, HBO Max, and many other popular platforms. Solid security features for a decent price. 31-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our PureVPN review.

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9. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is a VPN that is popular with people looking for a highly technical and advanced VPN with many features. The VPN was developed by the team behind Proton Mail in Switzerland, this gives it excellent provenance – and means that the VPN has a rock-solid no-logging policy. This makes it a rusted VPN to gain privacy while gaming, streaming, torrenting, and making VoIP calls.

The VPN has completed security audits of all its apps and network infrastructure, meaning that all its privacy and security claims have been verified independently.

Its apps for all major platforms are equipped with robust privacy features, such as AES encryption, multiple protocols, stealth VPN, a system-level kill switch, obfuscation, and multi-hop connections. It also offers split tunneling and port forwarding for torrenting, which makes it a fantastic all-rounder.

With servers available in 85+ countries, ProtonVPN allows access to foreign game servers and enables users to purchase games cheaper or access them earlier. This includes servers in countries that work to unblock PUBG. Plus, ProtonVPN is highly secure, making it a safe option to play PUBG at work or on campus without being tracked.

Although ProtonVPN may be more expensive than some competitors, it is a highly reliable VPN that is great for gaining online privacy and access to a huge number of region-locked or censored services from around the world. Gamers can take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee to play PUBG.

SECURE AND PRIVATE:ProtonVPN is a secure VPN that is well-suited to advanced users. It has fast servers in 85+ countries, to provide access to PUBG from anywhere. Works with popular streaming platforms like Netflix US. Has a solid no-logs policy, AES encryption, a kill switch, and obfuscation. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.

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How to unblock PUBG with a VPN

VPNs can seem complex at first, but they’re actually quite easy to use once you know how. Follow the steps below to unblock and play PUBG wherever you are.

Here’s how to unblock and play PUBG with a VPN from anywhere:

1. Start by signing up for one of the VPNs above, if you haven’t already (we particularly recommend NordVPN).
2. Download the appropriate version of the app for your device, then install it and log in.
3. Connect to a server in your desired location. If you’re able to choose servers in a particular city, it’s often best to connect to a location close to you since this helps reduce latency.
4. Open PUBG. You should now be able to play without any issues. If you’re still unable to get connected, you might want to contact your VPN’s customer support team for further assistance.

Methodology: Finding the best VPNs for PUBG

With so many VPNs on the market, it can be difficult to tell which is best for your needs. Things are even more complex if you’re a gamer, since speed, network scale, and the ability to stay under the radar are doubly important. To ensure we only recommend the best VPNs for playing PUBG, we looked for those that excelled in all of the areas below. We’ve also put together a brief explanation of what we expect in each:

• Server choice: This is important for two reasons. First, servers in a higher number of countries mean you should always have one that’s fairly close by, which helps lower your ping. Additionally, we prioritized VPNs with servers in Korea and Japan, as these will allow you to play the regional variants of PUBG Mobile as well as the main game.
• Performance and reliability: You only technically need around 3 Mb/s downloads to play PUBG smoothly. However, higher speeds are always better, which is why we recommend services that excel in our regular VPN speed tests. All of these VPNs offer fairly consistent performance, even during peak times, so they’re ideal for gaming.
• Unblocking ability: Plenty of games won’t let you play if they realize you’re using a VPN. That’s why we test potential recommendations against services like Overwatch, Minecraft, and Dota 2 to see if they’re able to avoid detection.
• Security and privacy: One of the main advantages of VPNs is that they help protect against DDoS attacks, doxxing, and SWATTING. The services above all offer (at a minimum) 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a no-logs policy. Naturally, we prefer VPNs with an even stronger set of security tools.
• Ease of use: The last thing anyone wants is to be messing around with settings when their friends are grouped up and waiting to begin a game. That’s why all of the services we’ve chosen have live chat-based support and are easy enough for anyone to use. Some even have specific servers for gaming and streaming!
• Pricing: We research a lot of VPNs, so it’s extremely obvious when one tries to charge more than it’s worth. In addition to only recommending those priced fairly, we’ll always let you know about any available discounts and guarantees to keep the cost as low as possible.
• Customer support: We test the availability and quality of customer support with each of the VPNs on our list. We prefer to see a live chat option, flexible opening hours, and quick resolutions to issues. Only then do we recommend a VPN to our readers.

If you’re interested, we have a full post that breaks down how we test VPNs at Comparitech.

Can I unblock PUBG with a free VPN?

You might be considering using a free VPN to unblock PUBG, but we’d advise against it. To begin with, these services are usually the first to be blacklisted, so in all likelihood, you won’t be able to connect. Free VPNs tend to be slower than paid ones since they have far more users (and fewer servers to choose from). Additionally, they often have very low data limits, which could see you kicked out partway through a game.

You should also know that free VPNs come with more risks than their paid counterparts. In fact, one study of 280+ free VPNs found that nearly 40% contained malware. To make matters worse, 18% used no encryption at all, meaning their users were effectively no safer than when browsing normally. Finally, while paid VPNs usually let you know how they handle your data upfront, free services offer no such guarantees and may even sell details of your activities.

The best way to protect yourself online is to use a reputable VPN that offers a customer-first privacy policy.

Playing PUBG via VPN: Your questions answered

See also:

• Best VPN for Dota 2
• Fastest VPNs
• Best VPN gaming
• Best VPN for Minecraft