9 Best VPNs for Minecraft and how to beat IP bans

The best VPNs for Minecraft encrypt your network traffic, making it unreadable to hackers, network administrators, and even your Internet Service Provider (ISP). In addition, they can connect you to servers all over the world, giving you a new IP address each time, so getting around a Minecraft IP ban becomes very simple. This also increases your online security by making it very difficult for sites to track your activities across the internet.

Obviously, Mojang doesn’t want players circumventing their server bans, so you can’t just use any VPN. You might not be able to connect to servers at all, or you might see an error saying, “Connection lost – You seem to be using a VPN or proxy.” Luckily, there are several quality VPN services that do work with Minecraft that you can use to connect and play regardless.

In this article, we’ll list the best VPNs for Minecraft and explain how to use them to protect yourself and bypass IP bans. We go into more detail on each of the VPNs in this post, but in case you haven’t got time to read the whole thing, we’ll start with a brief summary.

The best VPNs for Minecraft:

1. NordVPN Leads the way as a Minecraft VPN. High speeds, a vast network of servers, and powerful security features. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
   TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Minecraft.
2. Surfshark Best budget option for Minecraft. Reliable, privacy-first service with no device connection limit and plenty of powerful security features built-in.
3. IPVanish Low-latency servers with no connection issues. Also ideal for streaming, downloading, and playing Minecraft due to its good speeds.
4. ExpressVPN Superfast low-latency servers scattered across the globe. Bypasses Minecraft’s anti-VPN detection with ease.
5. CyberGhost Great beginner-friendly provider with fast servers and a vast network of global servers, making it super easy to access Minecraft from anywhere.
6. PrivateVPN Newer and smaller network than its rivals, but impressively reliable and speedy internet connections. Allows up to 10 connections.
7. Private Internet Access Delivers steady speeds, a wealth of security features, and even a GUI app for gamers on Linux.
8. PureVPN: High speeds and strong security make this a great Minecraft VPN. Very easy to use and comes with a 10-device limit 24/7 support,
9. ProtonVPN: Versatile service that supports port forwarding and split tunneling. Impressive speeds, and a high level of security.

How to play Minecraft and remove an IP ban with a VPN

VPNs can seem daunting if you’ve never used one before. However, they’re actually very simple to use. Just follow the steps below to reset your IP address, beat your Minecraft ban, and continue playing securely.

Here’s how to use a VPN to bypass an IP ban on Minecraft:

1. Sign up for one of the VPNs below (we recommend using NordVPN).
2. Download the appropriate version of the VPN client for your operating system.
3. Choose a server close to your location and connect to it.
4. Try logging into an online world in Minecraft. You should be able to play uninterrupted for as long as you’d like.
5. If you’re struggling to access it, try clearing your browser’s cookies and reloading the page or connecting to a different server. Alternatively, contact your VPN’s customer services team for more help.

How we chose the top Minecraft VPNs

The first step is choosing a suitable VPN to use. However, this can be a tricky process since every service is different, with varying security features, network sizes, and speeds. To help you narrow down the search for the best VPNs for Minecraft, we looked for services that met the following non-negotiable criteria:

1. Offers an expansive server network
2. Provides high-speed, consistent connections suitable for gaming
3. Capable of bypassing Minecraft’s VPN detection measures
4. Uses strong encryption and additional security features
5. Doesn’t log any personally identifiable information

This is just an overview, but you can read about our testing regime in more detail in the methodology section of this article.

The best VPNs for Minecraft: at a glance

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 Minecraft.

The best VPNs for Minecraft

Let’s take a closer look at the VPNs that made our list. The following reviews are based on our first-hand experiences and extensive real-world testing.

Here is our list of the best VPNs for Minecraft:

1. NordVPN

Nov 2024 Works with MinecraftTested Nov 2024

NordVPN is our top choice VPN for Minecraft. It has everything a gamer could ever need: an expansive server network (over 6,000 servers across 60+ countries), DDoS protection, and the ability to bypass VPN detection of games like Minecraft, Fortnite, and Overwatch. Like to play games on your phone or tablet? No problem: this VPN allows up to six devices to be connected at the same time. As such, there’s no need to sacrifice security when you’re away from home.

With 256-bit AES encryption, an application-specific kill switch, anti-malware checking, ad-blocking, and protection against both IPv6 and DNS leaks, NordVPN makes it easy to stay safe online. You can even use it for advanced security setups, thanks to its double VPN and Tor over VPN functionality.  With no online activity or session data recorded, this VPN allows you to play as anonymously as possible.

This service has Android, iOS, Linux, Windows, and MacOS apps. Specific routers are also supported but require manual configuration.

NordVPN speed test data

BEST VPN FOR MINECRAFT:NordVPN is our #1 choice. Performs solidly with Minecraft. Connects up to 6 devices simultaneously. Solid security and privacy. Also works well with most gaming sites and achieves consistently good speeds. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review here, or check out our video review instead.

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2. Surfshark

Works with MinecraftTested Nov 2024

Surfshark has more than 3,200 VPN servers in 100+ countries, which means it’s ideal for anyone looking to access region-locked streaming platforms abroad. However, with generally decent speeds, it works just as well for gaming. Best of all, unlike most of its rivals, Surfshark has no connection limit. As such, you won’t have to worry about deactivating one device to protect another; just secure all of your devices at once.

This VPN places major emphasis on user security. It comes with 256-bit encryption enabled by default, as well as online protection against WebRTC, DNS, and IPv6 leaks, a kill switch, and automatic ad-blocking. Most importantly, Surfshark doesn’t log any data that could identify you. Still not convinced? Why not pay in cryptocurrency for even greater privacy; Surfshark accepts Bitcoin, Ripple, and Ethereum. Its apps are very easy to use, but if you’re having trouble, you can contact support 24/7 over live chat.

Surfshark provides apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. It can be manually installed on supported internet routers.

Surfshark speed test data

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark lets you connect as many devices as you like, and is very reasonably priced. It also offers user-friendly apps, a wide range of security and privacy protections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark here.

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3. IPVanish

Works with MinecraftTested Nov 2024

IPVanish has over 2,000 servers in 75 worldwide locations to choose from, allows any number of simultaneous connections per account, and has barely any impact on your connection speeds. For this reason, it’s a popular choice, not just for playing Minecraft but also for streaming video online. In addition to bypassing Minecraft’s VPN detection, it can be used to access platforms, including Hulu, CBS, and CW Seed.

Despite its lightweight apps, IPVanish actually offers a pretty incredible range of security options. There’s 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, DNS/IPv6 leak protection, and some more advanced features like LAN traffic blocking, timed IP address switching, and OpenVPN obfuscation. Best of all, IPVanish doesn’t log any personally identifiable information, meaning your online activities stay private at all times.

This VPN boasts lightweight apps for MacOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire TV/Fire Stick. It can be manually installed on Linux-based systems, as well as supported network routers.

IPVanish speed test data

UNLIMITED DEVICES:IPVanish has a large network of servers and handles multiple connections well. Easy to use and preferred by users who need high standards of security and privacy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

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4. ExpressVPN

Works with MinecraftTested Nov 2024

ExpressVPN makes it easy to find a low-latency connection to play Minecraft on, with more than 3,000 servers operating out of 100+ countries. Its service is fast enough to stream 4K video effortlessly, so Minecraft shouldn’t pose any problem. Further, with DDoS protection built-in, this VPN ensures you’ll be able to connect, even if you’re being targeted by malicious third parties.

This service is as secure as it is user-friendly. It comes with 256-bit encryption, DNS leak protection, perfect forward secrecy, and a kill switch enabled by default. If you run into any issues, you can contact customer support via 24/7 live chat. With no personally identifiable information recorded, you’ll be able to play, stream, and browse privately.

ExpressVPN has dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux platforms. It’s possible to install the VPN on selected wireless routers, although this must be done manually.

ExpressVPN speed test data

PLAY SAFELY ANYWHERE:ExpressVPN is a fast and reliable choice. Great at unblocking all major IP-restricted gaming services. Great security and privacy with 256-bit AES encryption, keep no browser logs, kill switch, and leak protection. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

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5. CyberGhost

Works with MinecraftTested Nov 2024

CyberGhost has over 10,000 high-speed servers in 100+ countries, so it’s easy to get a low-latency connection wherever you are in the world. This service permits up to seven connections at once and comes with 24/7 live chat-based customer support just in case you have any problems.

All of this VPN’s security features are preconfigured, so there’s very little setup required. These include 256-bit encryption, a kill switch (in all versions), a malware scanner, and DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection. Further, CyberGhost doesn’t log any personally identifiable information, so once connected, you’re effectively untraceable.

CyberGhost has apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Manual installation is required for use on network routers.

CyberGhost speed test data

VALUE AND PERFORMANCE:CyberGhost provides high speeds and powerful security features in an easy to use package. Better still, this service comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Interested? Find out more in our full CyberGhost review.

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6. PrivateVPN

Works with MinecraftTested Nov 2024

PrivateVPN has fewer servers than some of its rivals (just around 200, spread across 63 countries), but it’s still well worth considering. It offers high speeds and exceptional customer support, making it ideal for people who are new to VPNs. Further, with up to 10 simultaneous connections allowed, you and your friends can play Minecraft securely with just one PrivateVPN account.

This VPN has a strict no-logs policy, which means your activities cannot be disclosed even if requested. It uses 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPV6 leak protection, and a kill switch to ensure your traffic is secure at all times. If you’re having trouble, PrivateVPN staff are available 24/7 and can configure the software remotely, with your permission.

PrivateVPN has apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android systems. It can be manually configured to work with Linux-based platforms and supported routers.

PrivateVPN speed test data

GREAT SPEED:PrivateVPN is consistently reliable for Minecraft. Also good for secure and private browsing and torrenting. Could do with having more servers and lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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7. Private Internet Access

Works with MinecraftTested Nov 2024

Private Internet Access has servers in more than 90 countries and delivered average speeds of over 100 Mbps in our latest tests. In other words, it’s more than fast enough for Minecraft, Fortnite, Call of Duty, or anything else you might want to play. Plus, it’s a solid option for streaming since it works with major platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and more.

We were impressed by the amount of security tools this VPN had. You can adjust the encryption level to provide slightly faster speeds, choose a custom port to send your data through, and even set up a SOCKS5 proxy. Of course, there’s also leak protection, a kill switch, and a true no-logs policy.

PIA has its own apps for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Alternatively, it can be manually installed on supported routers to help you play Minecraft securely on consoles.

Private Internet Access speed test data

GOOD EVERYDAY VPN:Private Internet Access offers a blend of speed security, and versatility that makes it a solid choice for gamers, no matter which platform they’re on. What’s more, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Why not check out our full PIA review?

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8. PureVPN

Works with MinecraftTested Nov 2024

PureVPN has a particularly large network, with more than 6,000 servers across 65 countries. It’s also one of the fastest providers we’ve tested, averaging download speeds of almost 400 Mbps. Since it works in countries with strict censorship (such as China and the UAE), you’ll be able to get a high-speed, low-latency connection from just about anywhere in the world. This service excels at beating online restrictions and as such, is a great choice for secure gaming, streaming, or web browsing. Customer support is available 24 hours per day over live chat.

Although this VPN doesn’t offer as many advanced features as some of its rivals, it does have all of the basics. For instance, there’s uncrackable encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Equally important, PureVPN has been externally audited, proving beyond all doubt that it’s telling the truth about its no-logs policy. There is a built-in tracker-blocker too, but this is only included with Plus and Max plans. Hopefully, those on the standard subscription will be able to use this in the future as well.

PureVPN has its own Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and MacOS apps. It provides manual setup guides explaining how to install this service directly on your home router.

PureVPN speed test data

GAME SAFELY ANYWHERE:PureVPN makes it as easy as possible to play games securely, regardless of your location. Delivers consistently high speeds, a solid security toolkit, and a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.

Read our full PureVPN review.

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9. ProtonVPN

Works with MinecraftTested Nov 2024

ProtonVPN has exceptionally high speeds (more than 300 Mbps in our latest round of testing) and provides access to thousands of servers spread across 85 countries. It works flawlessly with popular games, including Minecraft, COD, Warzone, and Fortnite, and can even help you stream your favorite shows while traveling abroad. However, while there is a free plan available, for the best experience, you’ll want to upgrade to a paid plan. On the plus side, this lets you connect 10 devices simultaneously and chat with customer support staff if something goes wrong.

So, what makes this service a good choice for gamers? Well, it supports multiple connection protocols, uses uncrackable encryption, and includes a wide range of safeguards such as a kill switch and automatic tracker-blocking. Experienced users can even set up split tunneling or port forwarding (which may be needed to host servers on games). ProtonVPN has a strict no-logs policy in place and has verified this via an external audit. There are even Secure Core servers for maximum privacy, though we wouldn’t recommend these for games where low ping is required.

ProtonVPN offers apps for Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, and Linux. If you’d prefer, it can be manually installed on most routers (check the website for setup instructions).

ProtonVPN speed test data

HIGH-SPEED VPN:ProtonVPN delivers outstanding performance and gives you lots of ways to stay safe while playing Minecraft. Includes lots of advanced tools and can even block trackers automatically. All paid plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our complete ProtonVPN review.

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Finding the best Minecraft VPNs: our methodology

Finding a VPN can be tricky because there are dozens of services to choose from. Many of those services use aggressive advertising, which makes it hard to know whether they are genuine. In addition, a vast majority of VPNs are slow, unreliable, and fail to provide adequate privacy levels. This makes it easy to end up with an inferior service. At Comparitech, we thoroughly test the market to find VPNs that are worth your time and money.

Here is a list of essential features we looked for when recommending VPNs for Minecraft:

• Global server network: A useful VPN has a wide choice of server locations to pick from. This allows you to bypass local restrictions, censorship, and regional blocks by getting an IP address elsewhere. Our recommendations have fast servers worldwide that are suitable for tasks like HD streaming, torrenting, and gaming.
• Apps for all platforms: We check each VPN to ensure they have secure apps for all platforms. This means you can install and connect to the VPN on Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Firestick devices, VPN-compatible routers, or use browser extensions – to play Minecraft on any device you own.
• No logs policy: A VPN that provides watertight privacy keeps no records about what its users do while connected. This ensures that there is never a way for the VPN to betray its users’ trust, should it be served a warrant, for example.
• Excellent customer care: We recommend VPNs with live chat and email support so that you can get help setting up or using the VPN at any time of day.
• Ease of use: All of our recommendations provide a premium service with a wide choice of privacy and security features. However, they are also designed in such a way that the user experience is exceptional, and the apps are suitable for beginners.
• Advanced features: We check the VPN for more than just the basic necessities. We look for a kill-switch, DNS leak protection, obfuscation, malware protection, ad-blocking, split tunneling, Smart DNS, SOCKS5 proxy, and other useful features that make the VPN more versatile and better value for money.
• Value for money: It’s very frustrating to spend a fortune on a VPN and still end up with a subpar service. So we ensure that the VPNs we recommend offer plenty of bang for your buck. We like services that offer free trials and money-back guarantees, and we provide discount links to ensure that you’re getting the best possible deal.

Want to know more? Check out our article detailing the scientific VPN testing methodology we use to pinpoint the services that offer the features you need.

Playing Minecraft with a VPN: FAQs

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