Did you know that over 4 million game-related desktop infection attempts were recorded between 2022 and 2023, according to popular cybersecurity provider Kaspersky? These attacks affected nearly 200,000 gamers worldwide. With threats like these on the rise, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) has become essential for a safe online gaming experience.
A VPN encrypts your data traffic and hides your digital identity from hackers. It safeguards your gaming device or console from threats like downloaders, adware, trojans, and even DDoS attacks. If you’re searching for a reliable gaming VPN that offers both speed and security, you’re in the right place.
In this article, I’ll cover the 3 best VPNs for gaming in India. After testing NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark for over a month, I’ve put together this guide with the ping rates I got. Let’s find out the lowest ping VPN!
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Top Gaming VPNs for India (Quick Comparison)
| Top 3 VPNs | Server Network | Speed in India | Ping in India | Price | Review |
| ExpressVPN | 3,000 in 105 countries | Download: 189 Mbps Upload: 111 Mbps | 114 ms | $4.99/month | ExpressVPN Review |
| Surfshark | 3200 in 100 countries | Download: 190 Mbps Upload: 83 Mbps | 319 ms | $2.09/month | Surfshark Review |
| NordVPN | 7169 in 111 countries | Download: 189 Mbps Upload: 69 Mbps | 66 ms | $2.88/month | NordVPN Review |
3 Best VPN for Gaming in India (2025)
1) ExpressVPN
In my testing, ExpressVPN showed the lowest ping rate. The ping remained under 60 ms, which matched my original ping. I enjoyed a smooth gaming session because of its stable connection, and the speed loss remained minimal.
This VPN offers over 3,200 servers across 105 countries. For competitive gaming, it helps access different in-game regions, find bot lobbies, and improve matchmaking. Plus, the port forwarding feature allows you to host games by creating a dedicated path for incoming traffic.
Its proprietary Lightway Protocol ensures the fastest connection with lower latency. I didn’t experience any lag or network disruptions while gaming online. To optimize performance with reduced network load, you can even use the split tunneling feature.
The installation and setup process is quick—it takes just 3 to 5 minutes. ExpressVPN also offers a dedicated router app to connect your gaming console without manual configuration. Alternatively, you can purchase their Aircove Router with ExpressVPN pre-installed.
Further, the ExpressVPN Advanced Protection feature helps block ads and trackers. This feature is useful when playing free online games.
Pricing and Plans
| ExpressVPN Subscription Duration | Price per month | Total Billing Amount | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| 1 month | $12.95 | $12.95 | Yes |
| 1 year | $6.67 | $99.95 | Yes |
| 2 years | $4.99 | $139.72 | Yes |
The best value plan is ExpressVPN’s 2-year plan, available for ₹12,018 ($139.72). This reduces the monthly cost from $12.95 to just $4.99. And don’t forget to use my link for an additional 4 months of access!
Pros and Cons
Pros of ExpressVPN
Minimal speed loss with the lowest ping
Supports up to 8 simultaneous device connections
20+ security audits conducted till 2024
Knowledgeable customer support
Cons Of ExpressVPN
Expensive 2-year plan
Owned by Kape Technologies
Conclusion
ExpressVPN is the best-performing gaming VPN in India. It is known for its consistent speed, lowest latency, lag-free experience, and server access in 105+ countries worldwide. The app is sleek, user-friendly, and supports all major devices.
However, the biannual plan can be expensive. So, take advantage of their 30-day refund policy to decide whether it’s the right choice for you!
2) Surfshark
Surfshark performed second-best in my testing. It showed the highest download and upload speeds when connected to the Indian server. However, it didn’t outperform ExpressVPN on Singapore servers.
While gaming Smash Kart, the ping rate ranged from 60 to 65 ms. But, similar to ExpressVPN, I didn’t face any network interruptions here either. The gameplay was smooth. Surfshark offers servers across 100 countries. Although fewer than ExpressVPN, this server list should be sufficient for online gamers.
This VPN also comes with a unique GPS spoofing feature (Override GPS Location), perfect for AR games (like Pokémon Go). It allows you to match your GPS location with your VPN location to access more features and events.
Surfshark’s IP rotation feature protects against DDoS attacks. Its WireGuard protocol is available for optimal speed and security. The user interface is more appealing than ExpressVPN, and it is the only VPN that offers unlimited connections.
This VPN also supports split tunneling, even on iOS devices. Additionally, the CleanWeb (ad and malware blocker) and Antivirus features are stronger than those of ExpressVPN.
Pricing and Plans
| Feature | Surfshark Starter | Surfshark One | Surfshark One+ |
| Price (1 month) | $15.45 | $17.95 | $20.65 |
| Price (1 year) | $47.84 ($2.99/mo) | $49.44 ($3.09/mo) | $91.04 ($5.69/mo) |
| Price (2 years) | $58.52 ($2.09/mo) | $72.52 ($2.59/mo) | $114.52 ($4.09/mo) |
| Ad-blocker | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Alternative ID | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Antivirus | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Alert | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Search | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Incogni | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
For a VPN with robust antivirus protection, consider Surfshark One’s 2-year plan. It costs approximately ₹6220 ($72.52), lowering the monthly price from $17.95 to $2.59. Use my link for an additional 4 months of free access.
Pros and Cons
Pros of Surfshark
Unlimited device connections
More affordable than NordVPN and ExpressVPN
Integrated ad blocker and antivirus
Alternative ID for temporary email addresses
Split tunneling on iOS devices
Cons Of Surfshark
Jurisdiction in the Netherlands
No new no-logs policy audit since 2023
Conclusion
Surfshark is another top-ranking VPN. The VPN offers comparable ping rates and speeds. Additionally, it provides useful gaming-specific features such as GPS spoofing, the WireGuard protocol, split tunneling, and unlimited device support.
However, its headquarters are within the jurisdiction of the 14 Eyes intelligence alliance. So, if you are comfortable with a Netherlands-based VPN and find ExpressVPN too expensive, Surfshark can be a suitable alternative.
3) NordVPN
NordVPN has consistently delivered excellent performance across various parameters, but this time, it fell slightly short. During a speed test, it typically maintains a ping under 60 ms. However, while testing with Smash Kart, the ping unexpectedly spiked to over 100 ms, ranging between 140 and 150 ms.
Generally, on the Indian server, NordVPN offered decent upload and download speeds. The speed was reduced by around 20% for downloads and 70% for uploads. However, when connected to a Singapore server, the speed dropped significantly, leading to higher latency and increased ping.
Despite this hiccup, NordVPN remains a top choice for many online gamers due to its largest server network—7,169 servers across 111 countries. It also uses the proprietary NordLynx protocol (built on WireGuard) to deliver optimal speed and security.
One of its standout features is Meshnet, which allows users to create a secure local area network (LAN). This makes multiplayer online gaming possible on private, encrypted networks with up to 50 external devices. Plus, Threat Protection Pro offers comprehensive protection against ads, trackers, malware, and suspicious websites.
Pricing and Plans
| Features | NordVPN Basic | NordVPN Plus | NordVPN Complete |
| Pricing (1 month) | $12.99 | $13.99 | $14.99 |
| Pricing (1 year) | $58.68 ($4.89/month) | $70.68 ($5.89/month) | $82.68 ($6.89/month) |
| Pricing (2 year) | $80.73 ($2.88/month) | $105.03 ($3.75/month) | $132.03 ($4.72/month) |
| Threat Protection Pro | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| NordPass | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| NordLocker (1 TB encrypted cloud storage) | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
NordVPN’s Plus 2-year plan offers the best value, bundling a password manager, anti-malware protection, and an ad blocker into one powerful package. The total cost is $105.03, bringing down the monthly price from $13.99 to just $3.75. Use my link to get 4 extra months of access—absolutely free!
Pros and Cons
Pros of NordVPN
Threat Protection Pro offers all-in-one security against ads, trackers, and malware
Onion Over VPN provides added protection when using the Tor network
Dedicated servers for P2P file sharing
Panama-based jurisdiction, keeping it outside the 14 Eyes surveillance alliance
Strict no-logs policy, independently audited multiple times
Cons Of NordVPN
Unreliable ping times for online gaming
Desktop app feels outdated in design and usability
Delayed disclosure of the 2018 Finland server breach drew criticism
Conclusion
NordVPN, although ranked 2nd on the list of Best VPNs in India for 2025, was a bit disappointing this time when it came to online gaming performance. I couldn’t get consistently reliable ping for smooth, uninterrupted gaming sessions. That said, it still offers several gamer-friendly features like Meshnet, Threat Protection Pro, and the NordLynx protocol, which are great for user privacy and security.
On the plus side, Nord Security is a globally trusted name, and NordVPN is used by millions worldwide. So, if you’re curious about its gaming performance, you can always take advantage of their 30-day refund policy and test it out risk-free.
How to Set Up a VPN for Gaming
Before you start gaming, setting up your VPN properly ensures a smooth and lag-free experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide for both desktop and mobile. I’m using Surfshark for a quick demonstration. You can select any paid VPNs in India.
For Desktop
Step 1: Subscribe to a VPN
At first, choose a reliable VPN from the top options in India. Visit its official website and purchase a subscription.
Step 2: Download and Log In
Now, download the desktop app from their official website. Install the VPN app and log in.
Step 3: Select the WireGuard Protocol
Go to VPN settings from the menu, navigate to “Protocol”, and select WireGuard. Some VPNs may replace WireGuard with their own lightweight protocol—if so, select that instead.
Step 4: Choose a Server Location
On the home screen, browse the server list. Select your preferred location, and click “Connect”. Now, you’re all set!
For Mobile
Step 1: Download the VPN App
After purchasing a VPN plan, visit the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Download the app and log in using your credentials.
Step 2: Change the Protocol
Under Settings, you’ll find “VPN settings”. Scroll down to “Protocol” and change it from Automatic to WireGuard. Some VPNs may use a custom lightweight protocol—select that if available.
Step 3: Choose a Country and Connect
On the home screen, use the search bar to find your preferred server location. Select it and tap “Connect” to activate the VPN. Your mobile VPN is ready!
One thing to note: A VPN can slightly slow down your internet speed due to the encryption and decryption of data traffic. However, paid VPNs cause minimal to negligible latency compared to free ones.
Another important factor is choosing a server close to your home country, which helps maintain a stable connection. In my case, after testing multiple servers, I found that the Singapore server provided the best speed with low latency.
To further optimize your network, limit unnecessary background applications that consume bandwidth. You can enable Split Tunneling to route regular traffic through your ISP while keeping only gaming traffic on the VPN.
Why Indian Gamers Need a VPN?
Is a VPN Mandatory for Gaming? Yes! A VPN provides many benefits for gamers, including:
1. Accessing Geo-Restricted Games
Certain online games may be restricted to specific networks. For example, schools, universities, or workplace campuses use firewall restrictions. A VPN helps bypass these restrictions by masking your original IP address. Now, you can access blocked content seamlessly.
2. Protection from DDoS attacks
During competitive gameplay, hackers may target your network, leading to data theft or malware attacks. A VPN encrypts your data traffic, providing an extra layer of security against cyber threats.
3. Connecting to International Game Servers with Better Stability
Many online games are unavailable in India or in certain regions. A VPN allows you to connect to international gaming servers. Paid VPNs enable access to region-locked games while ensuring a stable and smooth gaming experience.
4. Avoiding ISP Throttling
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) often slow down internet speeds deliberately to prevent network congestion or reduce high-bandwidth usage. By masking your identity, a VPN helps you bypass activity-based ISP throttling, ensuring a lag-free gaming experience.
Key Factors for Choosing a Gaming VPN in India
Which VPN Is Best for Online Gaming? To find a reliable gaming VPN, consider these core factors:
1. Speed and Latency
No matter how good a VPN is, it will slightly slow down your baseline internet speed. That’s why it’s better to avoid free VPNs, as they have higher server loads. Even with a paid VPN connection, choose one that minimally impacts your speed to ensure low ping and uninterrupted gaming.
2. Server Locations
When selecting a VPN for gaming, server coverage matters. Always choose a server near your home country for the best speed and lower latency. A VPN with a small server network may not provide lag-free connectivity worldwide.
3. Reliability and Uptime
For online activity, a stable connection with consistent uptime is crucial. The VPN should perform well during peak hours and handle high internet traffic loads without a significant speed drop.
4. Device Compatibility
Your gaming VPN should support multiple devices. Check if it allows simultaneous connections on PC and mobile. If you’re a console gamer, router compatibility is essential to encrypt all connections on your PlayStation.
5. Security Features
A high-quality VPN should include essential security features such as a Kill Switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly, AES-256 Bit Encryption, Advanced Protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2, and DNS Leak Protection to prevent real IP address from being exposed. Additionally, the VPN must follow a strict no-logs policy, which should be independently audited by security firms to verify its credibility.
6. Value-Worthy Plans
Paid VPNs come at different price points. For example, Surfshark offers more affordable options compared to NordVPN or ExpressVPN and supports unlimited devices. So, compare different VPN plans and choose one that fits your budget and needs.
Testing Parameters
To find the best 3 VPNs for gaming, I tested multiple VPNs extensively. Since I’ve been researching the best VPNs in India for the past three years, I was already familiar with top-ranking VPNs and their performance. NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN have consistently ranked in the top 3 positions over the years. So, I tested their individual gaming performance for over a month.
Here are my testing parameters:
- Speed Test: I used Speedtest.net to measure speed drops and latency.
- Protocol Selection: I chose WireGuard, as it’s the most lightweight protocol for maximum speed.
- Online Game: To evaluate gaming performance, I tested the VPNs using Smash Karts (an online game).
- Server Location: After testing multiple servers, I found Singapore provided the best performance, so I stuck to it for consistency.
Why Should You Trust Me?
Over the past five years, I’ve personally tested and reviewed more than 30 VPN services. On my blog, you’ll find detailed guides on topics like what is a VPN, ways to reduce VPN latency, etc. Plus, I’ve shared honest, hands-on reviews of popular options like Surfshark, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Proton VPN.
My mission is simple: to give you a complete, unbiased view of each VPN, highlighting both the pros and cons, so you can make the right choice based on your specific needs. Since I actively use these VPNs every day, I stay on top of the latest updates, security improvements, and performance trends. That’s why I’m confident in recommending VPNs that truly match what you’re looking for.
Conclusion
In this article, I’ve reviewed the top 3 recommended VPNs for gaming in India. Surprisingly, ExpressVPN delivered the best performance during my tests. Surfshark also maintained ping within an acceptable range. However, NordVPN fell short with higher internet latency, which impacted the gaming experience.
That said, all three VPNs offer solid security and gaming-specific features. And as you probably already know, using a VPN is essential for online gaming to prevent DDoS attacks and protect your console or device. So, if you’re serious about safe and smooth gaming, any of these three paid VPNs is a far better choice than a free VPN.
Which VPN is giving you the best gaming performance? Feel free to share your experience or ask any questions in the comments below!
FAQs
Is VPN use legal in India?
Absolutely! Using a VPN is completely legal in India. However, VPN service providers that have physical servers within the country are required to store user data logs, as per government regulations.
Do VPNs reduce lag?
Not necessarily. VPNs can introduce some lag due to the encryption and decryption processes used to protect your digital identity. However, with premium VPN services, the impact on internet speed is usually negligible and often unnoticeable during gameplay.
Does a VPN really improve gaming performance?
Yes! A VPN can help you bypass ISP throttling, leading to smoother, uninterrupted gaming with reduced latency. Plus, its built-in security features protect your device from cyberattacks and DDoS threats.
Will a VPN reduce my download/upload speeds?
Yes, slightly. Since your data is routed through an additional server for encryption, you might notice a small drop in download and upload speeds. However, top-tier VPNs optimize routing to minimize this impact.
Which VPN protocol is best for gaming?
WireGuard is the best protocol for online gaming. It’s lightweight, fast, and secure, offering the ideal balance of speed and protection for a seamless gaming experience.
Can you use a free VPN for gaming?
No, I wouldn’t recommend it. Free VPNs often lack proper security measures, come with data caps, and rarely offer gaming-specific features. For safe and smooth gaming, it’s better to invest in a reliable paid VPN.
