Best VPN for PS5 in 2026: Low Ping Setup Guide
Want to use a VPN on your PS5? There's a catch: the PlayStation 5 doesn't support VPN apps natively. You can't just download NordVPN or ExpressVPN from the PlayStation Store like you would on your phone.
But that doesn't mean you're out of options. There are three reliable ways to get VPN protection on your PS5 — through your router, using Smart DNS, or sharing a VPN connection from your PC. Below are the five best VPNs for PS5 in 2026, chosen for speed, easy router setup, Smart DNS support, and DDoS protection for competitive gaming.
If you're new to VPNs for gaming in general, check out our best VPN for gaming guide for the full breakdown. And if high ping is your main concern, our guide to lowering ping covers fixes that work on any platform.
The 5 Best VPNs for PS5 in 2026
Our Top Pick
NordVPN
Best Overall for PS5
NordVPN is the best all-around choice for PS5. It includes Smart DNS (called SmartPlay) at no extra cost, offers detailed router setup guides for every major router brand, and its NordLynx protocol delivers some of the fastest speeds we've tested — critical when every millisecond of ping matters. The 6,000+ server network means you'll always find a low-latency server near your game servers.
Check Price on AmazonQuick Comparison
| Product | Key Specs | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | NordVPNBest Overall | Smart DNS included · NordLynx protocol · 6,000+ servers · Router guides | Check Price |
| #2 | ExpressVPNEasiest Router Setup | Custom router firmware · MediaStreamer DNS · Excellent speeds | Check Price |
| #3 | SurfsharkBest Value | Unlimited devices · Smart DNS · WireGuard · Budget-friendly | Check Price |
| #4 | CyberGhostGaming Servers | Gaming-optimized servers · Smart DNS · 45-day money-back | Check Price |
| #5 | Private Internet AccessAdvanced Users | Highly configurable · WireGuard · Port forwarding · Open source | Check Price |
NordVPN
Best Overall for PS5NordVPN tops our PS5 list because it nails everything console gamers need. The included Smart DNS (SmartPlay) lets you access geo-blocked streaming apps on your PS5 without a full VPN connection — perfect for watching region-locked content. For gaming, the NordLynx protocol (built on WireGuard) keeps speeds high and ping low.
Router setup is straightforward with step-by-step guides for ASUS, Netgear, TP-Link, and other popular routers. Once configured, every device on your network — including your PS5 — routes through the VPN automatically. The Threat Protection feature also blocks trackers and malicious sites at the network level.
Pros
- Smart DNS included free for streaming on PS5
- NordLynx protocol delivers excellent gaming speeds
- Detailed router setup guides for all major brands
- 6,000+ servers for finding low-ping connections
Cons
- No free trial (30-day money-back instead)
- Router setup required for full VPN on PS5
- Desktop app can feel feature-heavy for beginners
Prices change frequently — click through to see today's price.
ExpressVPN
Easiest Router SetupExpressVPN stands out for PS5 users because of its custom router firmware. If you have a compatible ASUS, Netgear, or Linksys router, you can install ExpressVPN's own firmware — which makes managing VPN connections for your PS5 (and switching server locations) dramatically easier than manual configuration.
The MediaStreamer Smart DNS service is included and works well for unblocking streaming apps on PS5. Speeds are consistently among the best in independent testing, and the Lightway protocol is designed for minimal latency. It's pricier than competitors, but the router experience is unmatched.
Pros
- Custom router firmware simplifies PS5 VPN management
- MediaStreamer Smart DNS for streaming apps
- Consistently top-tier speeds in testing
- Excellent customer support with live chat
Cons
- More expensive than most competitors
- Fewer simultaneous connections (8 devices)
- Custom firmware only works on select routers
Prices change frequently — click through to see today's price.
Surfshark
Best Value for PS5Surfshark is the budget champion that doesn't compromise where it matters for PS5 gaming. The unlimited simultaneous connections policy means one subscription covers your PS5, PC, phone, and every other device in your household. Smart DNS is included for streaming, and the WireGuard protocol keeps gaming speeds competitive.
Router setup guides are clear and cover the most popular models. While it doesn't have ExpressVPN's custom firmware, the manual OpenVPN and WireGuard router configurations work reliably. For the price — often under $2.50/month on long-term plans — it's hard to beat for PS5 gamers on a budget.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Smart DNS included for PS5 streaming
- WireGuard protocol for fast gaming speeds
- Among the most affordable premium VPNs
Cons
- No custom router firmware option
- Speeds can vary more than top-tier rivals
- Based in the Netherlands (9-Eyes jurisdiction)
Prices change frequently — click through to see today's price.
CyberGhost
Best Gaming ServersCyberGhost is the only VPN on this list with servers specifically labeled and optimized for gaming. These gaming servers are monitored for low ping and high bandwidth, taking the guesswork out of server selection for your PS5. Just connect to the nearest gaming server and you're set.
Smart DNS is included for streaming apps, and the 45-day money-back guarantee (longer than the industry-standard 30 days) gives you plenty of time to test it with your PS5 setup. Router configuration uses standard protocols and the guides are beginner-friendly.
Pros
- Dedicated gaming-optimized servers for low ping
- Smart DNS included for PS5 streaming
- Generous 45-day money-back guarantee
- Beginner-friendly apps and guides
Cons
- Speeds trail the very fastest VPNs slightly
- Fewer advanced configuration options
- Mac and iOS apps less polished than Windows
Prices change frequently — click through to see today's price.
Private Internet Access
Best for Advanced UsersPrivate Internet Access (PIA) is the tinkerer's choice. It offers the most configurable VPN experience — adjustable encryption levels, port forwarding (useful for improving PS5 NAT type through the VPN), and open-source apps you can audit yourself. If you like fine-tuning your network setup, PIA gives you the most knobs to turn.
The server network is massive (30,000+ servers), and WireGuard support keeps speeds competitive for gaming. Note that PIA doesn't include Smart DNS, so for streaming on PS5 you'll need the full router VPN setup. The interface assumes more technical knowledge than competitors.
Pros
- Port forwarding can improve PS5 NAT type
- Highly configurable encryption and protocols
- Open-source apps for transparency
- Massive server network
Cons
- No Smart DNS for easy PS5 streaming
- Interface less beginner-friendly
- US-based (5-Eyes jurisdiction)
Prices change frequently — click through to see today's price.
How to Set Up a VPN on PS5 (3 Methods)
Since the PS5 doesn't support VPN apps, you'll need one of these workarounds. They're listed from most reliable to simplest:
Method 1: Install the VPN on Your Router (Best for Gaming)
This is the recommended method. When the VPN runs on your router, your PS5 gets VPN protection automatically with no extra configuration on the console itself. Every device on your network benefits, and there's no speed penalty from PC-based sharing.
- Check if your router supports VPN client mode (ASUS, Netgear, and TP-Link models commonly do)
- Log into your router admin panel and follow your VPN provider's router setup guide
- Choose the WireGuard or Lightway protocol for the lowest gaming latency
- Connect to a VPN server geographically near your game servers
- On your PS5, go to Settings → Network → Set Up Internet Connection — it will use the VPN automatically
Method 2: Use Smart DNS (Easiest for Streaming)
Smart DNS doesn't encrypt your traffic like a full VPN, but it does let you access geo-blocked streaming apps on your PS5. It's faster than a VPN (no encryption overhead) and takes two minutes to set up.
- Get the Smart DNS addresses from your VPN provider's dashboard
- On PS5: Settings → Network → Settings → Set Up Internet Connection
- Select your network → Advanced Settings → DNS Settings → Manual
- Enter the Smart DNS primary and secondary addresses
- Note: Smart DNS won't protect against DDoS or hide your IP in games — it's for streaming only
Method 3: Share a VPN Connection from Your PC (No Router Changes)
If your router doesn't support VPNs, you can share your PC's VPN connection with your PS5 via Ethernet or a mobile hotspot. This works but adds latency since traffic goes through your PC first.
- Install the VPN app on your Windows PC and connect to a server
- Go to Network Settings → Change adapter options → right-click your VPN adapter → Properties → Sharing
- Enable "Allow other network users to connect" and select your Ethernet adapter
- Connect your PS5 to your PC via Ethernet cable
- On PS5, set up a wired connection — it will route through the VPN
For more on reducing gaming latency in general, see our guide to lowering ping — many of those tips apply directly to PS5.
Why Use a VPN on PS5?
DDoS Protection
In competitive games, sore losers sometimes launch DDoS attacks against opponents' IP addresses. A VPN hides your real IP, making these attacks impossible. This is especially relevant in peer-to-peer games like older Call of Duty titles and fighting games.
Stop ISP Throttling
Some ISPs slow down gaming traffic during peak hours. A VPN encrypts your traffic so your ISP can't identify and throttle it. If your PS5 ping spikes every evening, throttling could be the cause.
Access Geo-Blocked Games and Content
Some games launch earlier in certain regions, and streaming apps on PS5 have different libraries by country. A VPN (or Smart DNS) lets you access content from other regions.
Play on Different Regional Servers
Want to play with friends in another country or access less crowded servers? A VPN lets you appear to be in their region, which can improve matchmaking options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you install a VPN directly on PS5?
No. The PlayStation 5 does not support VPN apps — there's no way to install NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or any other VPN directly on the console. You must use one of three workarounds: install the VPN on your router (recommended), use Smart DNS for streaming, or share a VPN connection from your PC. Router installation is the best option for gaming because it adds no extra latency.
Does a VPN lower ping on PS5?
Sometimes. A VPN can't reduce the physical distance to game servers, but it can help in two specific cases: if your ISP is throttling gaming traffic (the VPN hides your activity so throttling stops), or if your ISP's routing to game servers is inefficient (the VPN may provide a better path). If neither applies, a VPN will slightly increase your ping. Test with a money-back guarantee period to see if it helps your specific situation.
Will I get banned for using a VPN on PS5?
Using a VPN on PS5 does not violate PlayStation Network's terms of service by itself. However, some games prohibit VPN usage to circumvent regional restrictions or manipulate matchmaking — particularly in competitive titles. Using a VPN for DDoS protection or to fix throttling is generally safe, but avoid using it to exploit regional pricing or access content in ways that violate a specific game's terms.
What is Smart DNS and is it enough for PS5?
Smart DNS is a lightweight service (included with NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost) that reroutes only your DNS queries — not your full traffic. It's enough for unblocking geo-restricted streaming apps on PS5, and it's faster than a VPN since there's no encryption overhead. But it does NOT hide your IP address, encrypt traffic, or protect against DDoS attacks. For gaming benefits, you need a full VPN via router setup.
Which VPN protocol is best for PS5 gaming?
WireGuard (and its variants like NordLynx and Lightway) is the best protocol for PS5 gaming. It's significantly faster than older protocols like OpenVPN, with lower latency overhead. When configuring your VPN on a router, always choose WireGuard if your router firmware supports it. Avoid PPTP and L2TP — they're outdated and slower.