While Riot Games continues to enrich its global network of servers, players from certain corners of the globe continue to be forced to connect to distant servers in order to play the game.

In an action-packed MOBA like League of Legends where every millisecond counts, lag-free connection is paramount to victory.

This is where Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) come in handy, promising to enhance your LoL experience regardless of the location.

But which is the best League of Legends VPN out there and what are the key features to look out for in a service? What are the benefits and drawbacks to consider?

We comprised a list of the best VPNs on the market in 2024, with an in-depth analysis of their pros and cons.

After all, the best services always come with a price tag and you need to make an informed decision before spending any money.

#1 ExpressVPN 

ExpressVPN is a well-regarded provider, known for its focus on security, speed, and ease of use.

But what makes it the most promising League of Legends VPN? 

Pros

Security and Privacy

ExpressVPN utilizes a military-grade standard 256-bit AES encryption that scrambles your data, making it virtually unreadable.

It also offers a choice of secure tunneling protocols like OpenVPN and Lightway, which further fortify your online privacy.

The service also boasts a strict no-logs policy which means that they don't store user activity, connection logs, or IP addresses.

This ensures that your online activity remains truly private.

Global network of servers

ExpressVPN has a vast network of servers across numerous countries.

This allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content or services that might be blocked in your region.

It works like magic with games like League of Legends whose bigger servers may be inaccessible from your location. 

Impressively fast connection speeds 

Unlike some VPNs that can slow down your connection, ExpressVPN prides itself on its high-speed servers.

This translates to minimal impact on browsing, streaming, and even gaming, further supporting the claim that it is the best League of Legends VPN. 

Gaming friendly features

While not exclusively designed for gaming, ExpressVPN offers features that benefit gamers.

The kill switch instantly cuts off your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing accidental data leaks.

The split tunneling allows you to choose which traffic goes through the VPN and which uses your regular connection, potentially improving performance for latency-sensitive games.

Easy to use

ExpressVPN's apps are intuitive and easy to navigate, even for non-technical users.

Whether you’re planning to play League of Legends on a different server or simply want to use the service on your phone, connecting to a VPN server is a breeze.

Use on up to eight devices simultaneously

A single ExpressVPN subscription lets you connect up to eight devices simultaneously.

This means that one subscription is enough to get a whole premade team of five on the same server without any further investments. 

Cons

Price point 

Compared to some competitors, ExpressVPN can be pricier. However, many users find that the premium features and reliable service justify the cost.

But it may be costly if you only plan to play games with it.

The price for 1 month is $12.95 but there are several long-term plans that include considerable discounts.

The 12 Months plan lowers the cost to $6.67 per month and includes additional 3 bonus months for free. 

Limited free trial

Unlike some VPNs that offer extended free trials, ExpressVPN has a shorter 30-day money-back guarantee.

This is still enough to test the service if you want it for gaming, but some potential clients might prefer a longer trial period.

#2 NordVPN

NordVPN is another prominent player in the VPN arena, known for its extensive server network, robust security features, and competitive pricing. It is another strong contender for the best League of Legends VPN.

Pros

Similar security and privacy policies

NordVPN utilizes the same military-grade 256-bit AES encryption as ExpressVPN, scrambling your data for ultimate protection.

It also offers a variety of secure tunneling protocols, including their own NordLynx protocol known for speed and security.

NordVPN also boasts a strict no-logs policy, preventing the leak of any data or activity logs.

Your online privacy is secured with this service.

Play League of Legends from any location

With a massive server network spanning over 110 countries, NordVPN excels at bypassing geo-restrictions.

While this means that you can play LoL or any other game uninterrupted, you can also use the VPN to access all types of exclusive content libraries and services.

Additionally, NordVPN offers obfuscated servers, a specialized feature that can help bypass VPN blocking measures sometimes employed by certain countries or gaming platforms.

Consistent fast servers

The vast server network strategically placed around the globe allows you to find a server close to your location, minimizing the impact on your internet speed.

While not always the absolute fastest, NordVPN's servers are known for their consistent performance.

User-friendly 

NordVPN's apps are user-friendly and straightforward, making it easy to navigate for both technical and non-technical users. 

Connect up to 10 devices 

One subscription to NordVPN will be enough to get all your friends on the same server in League of Legends.

You will even have enough additional spots for your entire family if they need to use a VPN. 

Variety of affordable plans

NordVPN is one of the cheapest services to use long-term but it is also pricy for short-term usage.

With four tiers that you can choose from, the monthly cost varies between €12.99 and €16.59.

However, if you opt for the 2-year plan, you are guaranteed to get one of the best prices on the market.

The basic 2-year plan lowers the cost to €3.09 per month while the Ultra plan costs €6.59/mo. All long-term plans include 3 extra months for free. 

Cons

Short trial period

NordVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee instead of an extended free trial.

However, the low cost of the service compensates for the limited trial period. 

Latency stats are not ideal

NordVPN can be a good option by offering potential lag reduction but there is also a chance of experiencing added latency due to the extra layer of encryption and routing.

If ultra-low latency is your primary concern, then NordVPN falls behind ExpressVPN in relation to gaming.

#3 Surfshark 

Surfshark has carved a niche in the VPN market with its emphasis on affordability, strong security features, and unlimited device connections.

But how good is it as a League of Legends VPN?

Pros

Same level of protection for a lower price

Surfshark stands out for its competitive pricing, often lower than most well-established competitors.

This makes it a great option for users who prioritize value without compromising on security.

Surfshark utilizes the same robust 256-bit AES encryption as ExpressVPN and NordVPN, ensuring your data remains secure.

It also offers a variety of tunneling protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard, known for both speed and security.

The no-logs policy is also active with this VPN service.  

Connect unlimited devices

The SurfShark subscription blows competitors out of the water by allowing unlimited simultaneous connections.

This means you, your family, and your friends can protect all your devices at the same time at the cost of a few dollars per month. 

Beneficial features for gaming

Surfshark offers certain features that can benefit gamers.

They also utilize the kill switch option that safeguards against data leaks if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

They also allow for static IP servers, which can be helpful for gamers who want a dedicated IP address for online gaming.

User-friendly with 24/7 customer support

Surfshark's services are straightforward and easy to use regardless of your background knowledge.

They also offer customer support 24/7 via live chat or email.

Low-cost long-term plans

Surfshark comes with three different plans that include different features.

Trying it for a single month comes at a considerable price, so only look at the long-term options.

The 24 months plan is available for just €2.19/month for Sufrshark Starter, the second tier costs €2.69/month, and the One+ plan is €4.29/month.

The best news is that you don't even need the expensive plan for gaming. 

Cons

Limited server network

Surfshark effectively allows you to access all kinds of services or games from any location in the world.

However, their server network is smaller, which could potentially mean that you won't have enough good options for certain regions. 

Increased latency

While their service is known for its consistency and reliability, Surfshark's servers increase the latency a lot more than ExpressVPN or NordVPN.

This is why it can hardly be considered the best League of Legends VPN. 

#4 CyberGhost 

CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN with a vast server network and a focus on multiple functionalities.

The overall package can be a good choice for users who prioritize ease of use, affordability, and a wider range of server options.

Pros

Server giant

CyberGhost boasts a massive server network with over 10,000 servers in 100+ countries.

This vast selection offers unlimited opportunities to find a server close to your location or desired region, thus minimizing the impact on connection speeds.

But this variety also leads to certain negatives for gaming, which we will discuss below. 

Elite security 

CyberGhost uses the same industry-standard 256-bit AES encryption to shield your data.

It also offers a variety of secure tunneling protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2, ensuring your online activity remains encrypted and private.

The company also adheres to the usual no-logs policy, which means that none of your data or activity will be stored. 

Connect up to 7 devices at the same time

A single CyberGhost subscription allows you to connect up to seven devices simultaneously.

It is also available on a wide range of devices, making it suitable for any type of usage.

Ideal for streaming and torrenting

CyberGhost offers specialized servers optimized for streaming and torrenting.

This can be beneficial for users who want to access geo-restricted content or download files securely.

While not explicitly advertised for gaming, these optimized servers can potentially improve performance for some users.

The service has also advertised some servers specifically designed for gaming.

While these work with League of Legends, they might not be universally available or optimized for every game.

Low price and longer trial period

There are three available plans in 2024: 1 Month, 6 Months, and 2 Years. The monthly subscription is €11.99, which is definitely far from the low end.

But the 2-year plan comes at just €2.03 per month, which is incredible, and it also includes 4 bonus free months. 

Cons 

Mixed speed results

While CyberGhost has a vast server network, some users report inconsistent connection speeds.

This might be due to the sheer number of servers and varying server load. Moreover, the backbone of this service is not gaming, so you can expect increased latency.

However, it is important to mention that tunneling through the IKEv2 protocol offered consistent results with a lower increase in ping, so use this option if you plan to use CyberGhost as your League of Legends VPN. 

Ownership

CyberGhost was previously acquired by the same company that owns ExpressVPN, which raised questions.

However, they claim to operate independently and maintain a strict no-logs policy. 

#5 IPVanish

IPVanish is a security-focused VPN with customizable features and a strong emphasis on torrenting.

While speeds might not always be top-notch, the split tunneling functionality and SOCKS5 proxy integration make it a viable option for gamers. 

Pros

Industry-standard security

IPVanish utilizes the same 256-bit AES encryption that we discussed multiple times already.

It also offers a variety of secure tunneling protocols such as OpenVPN and IKEv2, allowing you to choose the balance between security and speed that best suits your needs.

SOCKS5 Proxy Integration 

In addition to VPN functionality, IPVanish offers SOCKS5 proxy support.

While not a full VPN solution, SOCKS5 proxies can be useful for specific tasks like torrenting while potentially offering slightly faster speeds compared to a VPN connection.

Split Tunneling Customization

IPVanish offers advanced split tunneling features, allowing you to choose which traffic goes through the VPN and which uses your regular internet connection.

This can be beneficial for gamers who want to maintain better ping for the game while routing other traffic through the VPN for security.

Updated device limits 

IPVanish updated its limits to allow unlimited connections per account.

This means that you can use one subscription for your entire family or group of friends and also try out as many servers as you want. 

Cons

Speed Inconsistencies

While IPVanish offers a good server network with over 2000 servers in 75+ countries, some users report experiencing occasional speed drops compared to some of the top competitors for the best League of Legends VPN above.

Split tunneling can further help reduce ping by keeping your gaming traffic on a low-latency connection but it is not enough to rank this service higher on our list.

Questionable no-logs policy

IPVanish claims to adhere to a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don't track or store your online activity, connection logs, or IP addresses. However, unlike some competitors, this policy hasn't been independently audited.

Moreover, IPVanish is based in the United States, a member of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance.

While they claim a no-logs policy, some users might be concerned about the potential for data access requests from government agencies.

Potential Benefits of using a League of Legends VPN

Reduced lag (Potentially)

The primary reason gamers consider VPNs is the promise of lower latency (ping).

By connecting to a server closer to the game server, a VPN can theoretically reduce the distance your data travels, leading to a faster response time and smoother gameplay.

However, keep in mind that using a VPN can sometimes add a layer of latency to your original connection.

This might be negligible for most games, but for highly competitive titles where every millisecond counts, it could be a factor.

In the case of League of Legends, you should prioritize VPNs known for consistent and reliable speeds. 

Enhanced security

VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, making it harder for attackers to intercept your data.

This can be a concern on public Wi-Fi networks, offering an extra layer of protection for your account information.

Therefore, if you want to play while you are away from home, it would be smart to use a VPN. 

DDoS protection 

While uncommon in everyday League of Legends play, DDoS (Distributed Denial-of-Service) attacks still happen in 2024, with T1's roster being the most recent example.

As each of their players usually streams on Twitch or other platforms, they experienced constant DDoS attempts in recent months. This led to the organization's full suspension of streaming until further notice.

Certain VPN providers offer DDoS protection, which can be a valuable shield against targeted attacks aimed at disrupting your connection during competitive matches.

Bypass geo-blocking

If you're traveling internationally and want to access your normal server, a League of Legends VPN can be a lifesaver.

By connecting to a server in your home region, you will trick the game into thinking you are back home. 

Potential for smoother gameplay on unstable connections 

Even if a League of Legends VPN doesn't significantly reduce your ping, it can stabilize an unreliable internet connection.

Fluctuations in ping can be just as detrimental as high ping, and a VPN can potentially help mitigate these by creating a more consistent connection.

Potential Drawbacks of using a VPN for League of Legends

Increased ping or inconsistent performance (Potentially) 

The very act of routing your traffic through a VPN server can add extra distance and processing steps.

This can, in some cases, actually increase your ping and lead to worse lag. The solution here is to opt for high-speed services that sadly often cost more.

Moreover, server speeds can vary greatly depending on factors like server load and distance.

A slow or overloaded VPN server can significantly impact your gameplay experience. The solution to this problem is to pick a service that has a larger global network.

This way, you will always have an alternative server in close proximity. 

Account security concerns

While most paid VPNs enhance security, choosing a reputable provider is crucial. Free VPNs or providers with shady practices could potentially compromise your account information. 

Potential violation of terms of service 

Using a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions might violate the terms of service set by Riot Games, the developer of League of Legends. This could lead to account suspension or even bans.

However, Riot Games have never come out with a statement specifically against the use of VPNs.

But the simple fact that their system doesn't allow free server changes suggests that the company is not a big fan of this method. 

Low return on investment

Premium VPNs can be expensive and the actual benefit on ping reduction might be negligible for some users.

As mentioned above, there are cases when such a service is effective and others when it actually makes the gaming experience worse.

Fortunately, most VPN providers offer a test period with a money-back guarantee.

This allows you to test the service before committing to a long-term subscription plan. 

Make sure to test different VPNs before you make a final decision

Ultimately, the decision to use a League of Legends VPN depends on your individual needs and priorities.

If you experience frequent lag due to a distant server location, a VPN might be worth exploring.

Highly competitive players who prioritize every millisecond and are willing to invest time in testing different VPNs will find more value in using a VPN strategically.

However, keep in mind that gaming was never the backbone behind the creation of this type of service.

Premium VPNs come with an extensive list of benefits but whether they will effectively improve your League of Legends experience depends on different factors, including your internet connection.

Make sure to test as many services as possible before you decide.

On paper, ExpressVPN stands out as the favorite for the best League of Legends VPN.

But you may find that a different service gives better results for your specific case.