The PlayStation is one of the best gaming consoles today. The device comes with high-end features and all its variants including the slim version and the 4K-enabled PS4 Pro boast a fantastic collection of games. In addition to gaming, the PlayStation can also be used to browse and stream videos. To stay safe and secure online, many PS4 and PS3 users are increasingly turning to VPNs.
A VPN protects your privacy and adds an extra layer of protection against DDoS attacks and other security threats. Additionally, a VPN will also allow you to by-pass geo-restrictions and unlock games and servers unavailable in your current region. With the right VPN, you will also be able to effectively avoid ISP throttling and enjoy lag-free gaming and HD streaming experience.
1. ExpressVPN
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Editors’ choice 2020
tekcompareExpressVPN is an incredible choice for online gaming and streaming. The VPN offers ultra-fast connections and has over 3000 servers in 168 locations across the world. Express VPN maintains a zero logs policy ensuring your personal details are safeguarded.
Privacy & Security
Security wise, ExpressVPN features best-in-class encryption with server authentication and perfect forward secrecy. There are a variety of protocols to choose from including PPTP, L2TP/IPsec, and the robust OpenVPN (UDP/TCP).
Additional features include Zero Knowledge DNS and an automatic kill switch. You’ll also be impressed by the VPN’s split tunneling feature which allows you to route some of your internet traffic through ExpressVPN servers selectively.
Compatibility
ExpressVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices, and there are apps for Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android. Although the provider does not offer a custom client for PS4, there is an easy-to-use custom firmware for routers.
Pricing
The only major downside with ExpressVPN is the price. The VPN does not come cheap, and their monthly subscription is one of the most expensive. However, their other plans are more affordable, and with the annual subscription, you can save 35%. A 30-day money-back guarantee covers all ExpressVPN subscriptions, and you can run up to 3 simultaneous connections on a single account.
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All plans are covered by a 30-day money back guarantee
2. NordVPN
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NordVPN is very popular among PlayStation users thanks to its high speeds and advanced streaming features. This VPN has more than 5000 servers to choose from across 60 countries across the world. With NordVPN, you can easily bypass internet blocks and watch geo-restricted movies and TV shows on PS Vue.
Privacy & Security
NordVPN does not cut any corners when it comes to security. The Panama-based VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption and Double VPN which routes traffic through two VPN servers instead of one. Some of the other security features include Onion over VPN, Zero logs, DNS leak protection, and automatic kill switch.
The VPN is also equipped with the CyberSec feature which automatically blocks suspicious websites and stops malware, DDoS attacks and other cyber threats.
Compatibility
NordVPN has apps for Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Android TV. The VPN is also compatible with routers allowing you to protect your PlayStation console and other devices that do not support VPN directly. Just make sure your router supports OpenVPN custom firmware.
Pricing
NordVPN is reasonably priced, and their 3-year plan is one of the most affordable. Current pricing plans include an $11.95/month monthly subscription, a $6.99/month annual plan, a $3.99/month biennial plans, and a $2.99 3-year plan. The provider also offers a 7-day free trial as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee allowing you to try their service free of charge.
3. IPVanish
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IPVanish is another fantastic VPN for PlayStation. Currently, IPVanish has over 40,000 IPs and 1300-plus servers in 75 locations around the globe. With IPVanish, everything is in-house. The provider owns and operates all the servers, and they do not subcontract to third-parties. The server connections front is where IPVanish truly shines with low ping times for a lag-free gaming experience.
Privacy & Security
IPVanish uses 256-bit encryption and supports multiple protocols including PPTP, IPsec, L2TP, OpenVPN, and IKEv2. Additionally, the VPN comes with DNS leak protection and an internet kill switch. However, this feature is only available in the Windows and MacOS clients. If you are a privacy-focused gamer, you’ll be thrilled to know the VPN maintains a strict ‘no logs’ policy.
Compatibility
IPVanish offers user-friendly software for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Windows Phone, and Chromebook. The provider also offers a custom firmware for routers allowing you to protect every device connected to your home network. IPVanish has exceptional customer support, and you can reach out to them via phone, email or live chat.
Pricing
IPVanish pricing plans include a monthly subscription at $5 per month, a 3-month plan at $4.50 per month, and an annual subscription at $3.25 per month. All pricing plans are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee, and with a single account, you connect up to 10 devices at the same time.
4. VyprVPN
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VyprVPN is a Switzerland-based VPN that performs admirably with PS4 and PS3. The VPN is extremely fast and comes with advanced security and privacy features. Although their server network isn’t as massive as you would expect, you are unlikely to experience any issues unblocking geo-restricted servers and PS Vue content.
Privacy & Security
VyprVPN offers military-grade encryption with stealth VPN, zero knowledge DNS, IPv4 leak protection, and an automatic kill switch. You’ll find multiple protocols to choose from including their very own Chameleon protocol which further scrambles your data for maximum privacy.
VyprVPN does not log user activities. VyprVPN features an internet kill switch and prevents both IP and DNS leaks as well as WebRTC leaks on web browsers.
Compatibility
If your PlayStation console can connect to your router, it can use VyprVPN. However, you should first make sure your router is supported since the VyprVPN router app is only compatible with routers on the Tomato MIPS/ARM framework. The VPN is simple to set up, and the provider offers easy-to-follow setup instructions to help with the installation process.
Pricing
VyprVPN is moderately affordable, and there are three pricing plans and billing cycles to choose from. It costs $12.95 per month if you choose the monthly billing. They also have an annual billing where you’ll save up to 70% which, when broken down goes down to $3.75 per month. You can save even more by choosing the two year plan which comes down to $2.50 per month.
VyprVPN no longer offer a free trial, but they do have a 30-day money-back guarantee.
5. Buffered VPN
Buffered is a relatively newer VPN that has taken the online gaming world by storm. The VPN offers fast and secure connections and has servers in 36 countries around the world. With Buffered VPN, you can protect yourself from DDoS attacks and enjoy access to gaming servers from across the globe.
Privacy & Security
For security, Buffered uses 256-bit Blowfish encryption with the OpenVPN Protocol. The provider does not keep any usage records ensuring your gaming and browsing activities are fully protected. Additional security features include a zero-knowledge DNS, IP leak protection, and an automatic kill switch.
Compatibility
Buffered is compatible with a wide range of routers. But to get the best performance, DD-WRT or Tomato-enabled routers are recommended. Buffered router client is easy to set up, and the provider offers pre-configured VPN routers and custom setup guides to make the process as smooth as possible.
Pricing
Buffered is on the pricey side and its monthly subscription will set you back $12.99 per month. Their other pricing plans are a bit cheaper, and you can save up to 68% on the biennial plan. The provider accepts multiple payment options including PayPal and Bitcoin. A 30-day hassle-free money-back guarantee covers all Buffered subscriptions.
How to use a VPN on PlayStation
The PlayStation does not offer support for VPN, and therefore, there are no native VPN clients for the console. But can you still use a VPN on your PS4 and PS3? Absolutely. There are two different ways you can connect your PS to a VPN. Let’s start with the simplest.
- Sharing your computer’s connection
Start by installing the VPN on your Mac or Windows PC. Virtually every VPN provider out there offers a native client for both operating systems. Once you have set up the VPN and connect an Ethernet cable from your computer to your PlayStation. Now all you need to do is make sure your PS is set to use LAN.
- Install the VPN on your router
This method is a bit complicated but carries the most benefits. It not only covers your PS console but also works with all other devices connected to the same Wi-Fi. All the VPNs in our list come with a custom router firmware and support different types of routers. Most providers offer step-by-step guides helping make the process easier.
You can also opt to purchase a pre-configured router from your VPN provider or a third-party. Expect to part with a little extra cash if you choose this option.
Final word
Connecting your PlayStation to a VPN will undoubtedly improve your gaming and streaming experience. It will also protect you against DDoS attacks and allow you to unlock more servers and games. All the VPNs in this list have fast speeds and robust security features. Try them and let us know what you think in the comment section below.