In a competitive first-person shooter game such as Valorant, every moment and shot counts and can make a difference between clutching the final 1v1 or leaving empty-handed.

With a high focus on consistent aim and performance, a top-notch Valorant player must be accompanied by a top-notch internet connection that minimizes input latency and lags.

However, for many Valorant players out there, achieving this can be hindered by several factors including ISP throttling and geographic limitations.

Luckily, VPNs can help you bypass these pesky restrictions by encrypting your internet traffic and rerouting it through alternative servers. 

#1 NordVPN - Best VPN for Valorant

Pros

Large server network

NordVPN is the best VPN provider in terms of the sheer number of servers that it boasts across the globe, having over 6400 servers worldwide.

This ensures you’re able to find the perfect server based on your geolocation which ensures optimal performance while you’re playing Valorant.

Additionally, having this many servers ensures that the quality of connection when using NordVPN is top-notch notch as the odds of server overcrowding and latency are very slim.

No throttling limit

NordVPN provides you with unlimited bandwidth when using their services which is unique to this provider.

Essentially, this means that there is no restriction on how much data you can use or how fast you can use it while connected to one of their servers.

This is extremely important when it comes to maximizing your network efficiency when playing Valorant as you can use more resources to further reduce your ping.

Strict no logs privacy

One of Nord VPN's crucial strengths is the fact that the company adheres to a strict no-logs policy.

This means that the company doesn’t collect, track, or share your personal data such as search history or other online activities.

Additionally, NordVPN has undergone several third-party audits that verify the company’s legitimacy when it comes to its no-logs policy and general security.

Furthermore, it’s worth noting that NordVPN is based in Panama which has strict privacy laws and does not share your private data with any of the larger countries.

Encryption-wise, this VPN excels as well because of its AES-256-GCM encryption system that ensures maximum privacy given that it’s used for military-grade encryption.

Nord Antivirus

Nord’s unique Antivirus software named Threat Protection combines the features of an all-in-one security system designed to provide you with an optimal browsing experience.

NordVPNs anti-malware system automatically scans everything you download and detects any malware that might be hidden among the files.

Additionally, this feature also detects risky online applications, websites, or trackers that can slow down your browsing or endanger your security.

Streaming capabilities

If you’re looking for content that’s specifically available at a certain location such as a specific Netflix show or a sports game, a VPN can help you out with your search.

By using a VPN to change your virtual location, you gain access to a myriad of online content that is geographically locked otherwise.

Furthermore, NordVPN’s speedy servers enable a smooth streaming experience without any lags as you can enjoy servers with no throttling limits 

Cons

Restricted number of connections

The only major flaw of NordVPN’s service lies in the subscription plan as it doesn’t allow you the flexibility that other providers do when it comes to connecting multiple devices.

When using this VPN, your maximum number of simultaneously connected devices is 6 which is less than the usual norm.

This limitation can prove to be a dealbreaker if you’ve wanted to use a single VPN to cover your entire household.  

#2 Express VPN

Pros

Lightway protocol

Express VPN lives up to its name as it provides you with optimal speed by streamlining the connection process to external servers.

When playing Valorant on an Express VPN server, their custom-tailored Lightway protocol ensures a lag-free experience as it’s designed for high performance and low latency.

This is because Lightway minimizes the necessary time required to establish a VPN connection while additionally conserving system resources.

By reducing ping and preventing lag spikes, Express VPN is a great choice in a fast-paced game like Valorant.

Split tunneling

Optimizing network speed while playing Valorant is your main objective and to do this, you must redirect your networking resources effectively.

Luckily, Express VPN assists you in this regard due to its split tunneling feature, offering you selective routing based on your preference.

Essentially, this allows you to manually select tasks that are bandwidth-sensitive (such as Valorant) as the only ones that will be using the VPN while the other ones operate on your regular network.

This allows you to maximize your network performance by reducing the amount of resources wasted on tasks that don’t actively require an alternate location.

Router app

Express VPN offers a unique router app that extends VPN protection to multiple devices in your household.

This is crucial for gadgets in your home that are not able to run VPN software directly, namely gaming consoles, and TVs.

Express VPN’s subscription allows you to connect to their servers using up to 8 devices at any given time which is more than enough to ensure that all of your internet-enabled devices can securely and privately access the web.

Efficient customer support

When making a VPN purchase for the first time, the sheer number of potential plans and available payment methods can be overwhelming.

For this reason, it’s important to have access to access to reliable customer support that can clear up any confusion along the way and help you with any potential technical difficulties.

Luckily, Express VPN’s customer support stands out in this regard as it’s available 24/7 to answer any of your inquiries through live chat.

Cons

Lack of a malware scanner

While Express VPN does possess a large array of qualities, it does suffer from a lack of a built-in malware scanner that some of the top competitors have by default.

A malware detector like this automatically scans downloads you perform, notifying you of any potential viruses that might be hiding between the files.

This makes processes where VPN is commonly used such as P2P file sharing less secure due to the risk of potential malware that can sneak into your computer.

No ad blocker

Apart from a lack of a malware scanner, Express VPN also doesn’t provide a built-in ad blocker within its features.

In an age where ads are as present as ever, this is fairly annoying as you’ll constantly get bombarded with advertisements while you’re surfing the web.

What’s more, ads that you encounter on certain websites run in your background and can easily go unnoticed after you’ve opened Valorant, continuously draining your precious CPU.

#3 Surfshark

Pros

Broad server coverage

Speed is the most important aspect of every VPN as far as playing Valorant is concerned which is why Surfshark is such a solid choice.

This VPN service boasts over 3000 servers in over 100 countries which is more than enough to find a server with a stable internet connection and location that fits your needs.

This includes areas with less coverage in terms of other VPNs such as the Middle East and Africa, boasting servers with at least 1Gbps connection speed.

Affordable prices

This VPN is known for its competitive and budget-friendly deals which is ideal if you’re looking to spend as little as possible on your VPN service.

Their flexible deals allow you to save up to 90% on long-term deals, with the 2-year plans standing out as the most cost-efficient option.

What’s more, Surfshark also offers regular seasonal discounts and promotional offers that are available on its website or through partner content creators on platforms such as YouTube or Twitch.

Built-in Antivirus

Surfshark is one of the few VPN tools that has a built-in tool that combats malware in the form of the lightweight Surfshark Antivirus.

This handy tool protects your sensitive data while operating in the background which won’t affect your Valorant performance while playing.

It boasts a data breach alert system as well as an automated webcam blocker to ensure maximum privacy on the internet.

Apart from being equipped with all of these tools, Surfshark also boasts the common VPN functionalities with a built-in ad and cookie blocker as well as an anti-tracking tool.

Unlimited devices

Surfshark stands out among other VPN providers given that it allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices per subscription, whereas other VPNs often limit this number (typically 5 to 10).

This feature is particularly beneficial if you’re part of a large family or simply someone who has plenty of devices such as smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs, as a single subscription can cover your entire household.

Additionally, this simplifies account management in your home and reduces the cost and hassle of purchasing multiple subscription plans.

Cons

Limited trial options

Sadly, a major flaw of Surfshark is that it doesn’t have any trial periods for new users using the Desktop app as it only offers a free trial for iOS and Android users.

Additionally, even though this VPN stands out in terms of its affordability with long-term deals, short-term deals such as one-month subscriptions are much less cost-efficient in comparison.

This makes Surfshark much less appealing if you’ve only wanted to use it for a brief period of time or to simply test it before purchasing.

Absence of static IPs

Whenever you connect to a Surfshark server, you will be assigned a random dynamic IP address from the pool of available ones.

This means that your IP will effectively change each time you establish a connection, enhancing your privacy.

That being said, this lack of a static IP address option can be a potential disadvantage if you’re planning to use applications that require a consistent IP.

#4 CyberGhost VPN

Pros

Gaming servers

When it comes to optimizing your gaming experience, CyberGhost VPN massively helps out as it dedicates a specific set of servers specifically for gaming purposes.

This ensures that you experience minimal latency and your connection stays stable while gaming, which is a crucial recipe for smooth gameplay.

By using specialized gaming servers, CyberGhost VPN can prioritize gaming traffic, reduce lag, and provide better overall performance compared to regular servers. 

Affordable long-term plans

If you’re someone who intends to use a VPN for an extended period of time, CyberGhost is a perfect fit as it offers very affordable long-term plans in terms of pricing.

Apart from significantly reducing the cost of their services if you commit to a long-term plan, CyberGhost additionally offers 2 months free if you purchase a 2-year deal.

In that deal, your monthly fee is less than 2.5€/3$ which also includes a 45-day money-back guarantee if you end up backing down on your purchase.

P2P support

P2P file sharing with this VPN is not only convenient and easy but also extremely secure.

CyberGhost VPN supports P2P file sharing on the vast majority of their servers which is convenient if you’re trying to acquire specific files or content distributed across P2P networks.

This feature is useful if you’re looking to download large files such as software music, or movies.

P2P file sharing with CyberGhost is extremely secure as they enforce strong encryption protocols and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring continuous privacy while using their services.

Wide server coverage and analysis

Given that CyberGhost VPN boasts a vast network that spans numerous countries and regions worldwide, your Valorant ping will benefit regardless of your current location.

The website boasts a feature that grants you insight into the countries that are supported by their servers and analyzes the features available such as secure P2P file sharing that you can use on them.

Additionally, the app’s server list also displays your physical distance to a host server which can help you calculate the most optimal ping when choosing your new Valorant server.

What’s more, CyberGhost VPN’s servers of specific countries are often physically located in the country they’re mimicking which significantly increases your network performance when connected.

Cons

Inconsistent server speeds

Although the CyberGhost VPN network boasts an impressive infrastructure, some users may experience inconsistent speeds at various times.

This is because of the sheer number of servers that are lacking when compared to some of the best VPN providers which are the top entries on this list.

Based in Romania

Even though CyberGhost VPN falls under Romanian jurisdiction which has favorable privacy laws compared to some other Western countries, there are some negatives worth considering.

Because of the company’s history and the fact that they originate from Romania which has fairly loose surveillance and data retention laws, this might be a deal-breaker for some.

This also leads to somewhat less transparency when it comes to server infrastructure and ownership which can pose questions about its potential vulnerabilities.

#5 PIA (Private Internet Access)

Pros

Customizable for optimal performance

When it comes to boosting your Valorant performance and decreasing your ping, PIA can help because of the fact that you can customize the VPN thoroughly to fit your gaming preferences.

This means tweaking settings that can ensure optimal network performance which decreases your Valorant ping and overall in-game latency.

In terms of optimizing performance, PIA offers a system that lets you prioritize resources towards speed rather than encryption which can further boost your Valorant ping.

MACE system

One of Private Internet Access’s key strengths is the all-powerful MACE system that the app boasts, effectively combining an ad blocker and tracker into an all-in-one security system.

This system generally improves your online experience and performance due to its ability to block malicious trackers and scripts that might be corrupting your computer.

The anti-malware system that is built-in automatically protects you from virus-infected website domains on the web.

This is essential as these malicious scripts often disrupt your PC’s performance by running unnecessary tasks in the background, negatively impacting your Valorant gameplay.

User-friendly interface

PIA’s website is very user-friendly as it’s easy to navigate which is crucial for first-time users of such services.

You can easily find all of the crucial information regarding the services they offer on each server by reading through the bandwidth and service status.

What’s more, the website automatically adapts to your local language when you launch it for the first time, ensuring that people from different backgrounds can use PIA in their preferred language.

Cons

No test period

Apart from providing buyers with a money-back guarantee period, Private Internet Access VPN does not offer a trial version of its services.

Essentially, you cannot test the PIA VPN’s services without committing to pay which some of its competitors offer with 7-day to 30-day trial plans.

The only way in which you can get your money back if you’re not satisfied with your purchase is by requesting a refund which is a tedious and time-consuming process.

This makes Private Internet Access VPN a sub-optimal choice if you’re actively trying to compare VPN services and test out which one works best for you.

Limited number of servers

Even though PIA offers a wide range of geographically supported servers around the globe, including key gaming regions in North America, Europe, and Asia, it still falls short in terms of the coverage it provides.

This is because of a somewhat limited number of servers compared to other top VPN providers which can potentially lead to server overcrowding.

As a result, your connection to the server can suffer which leads to reduced connection speed and performance.

Why do you need a VPN for Valorant?

Use VPN to reduce Valorant ping

For some players, playing Valorant in certain countries can be a challenging task because of the distance of Riot’s servers.

This makes input lag and overall latency levels very high which can be a dealbreaker in a game that is as reliant on swift decision-making as Valorant.

Luckily, VPNs can reduce your ping by adjusting your server proximity as they allow you to connect to servers that are physically closer to Riot’s servers.

This reduces the physical distance your data packets need to travel between your local server and Riot’s, resulting in a more stable ping without throttling.

Prevent ISP throttling

You’d be surprised how often your internet service provider is the cause of bad Valorant ping and lags.

This is because ISPs are often prone to implementing throttling measures that deliberately slow down specific types of internet traffic, including gaming data like Valorant.

This can result in frustratingly high ping times, frequent lag spikes, and overall degraded gaming performance.

Luckily, VPNs can solve this issue as they encrypt your internet connection by routing it through their servers, effectively disabling your ISP from having the possibility of limiting your bandwidth.

Unblock Valorant

For some players, the only way that Valorant can even be launched is by using a VPN and changing locations.

This is because Valorant is not available in specific regions where players reside, whether due to regional restrictions or limitations set by Riot themselves.

In such a scenario, VPNs serve as a crucial workaround that allows players to bypass geographical barriers and connect to Valorant servers from different locations where the game is accessible.

On the other hand, in some regions voice chatting with teammates is prohibited due to VoIP laws which is another use case for VPNs as they can take care of this by masking your location and migrating you to a different server.

Play on a different Valorant region with a VPN

Given that your Riot account is connected to your primary region by default, switching to a different region can be a very difficult task.

Luckily, since VPNs are designed to mask your real location by assigning an address from a region of your choice, using them opens up the possibility of playing on a different Valorant region.

This flexibility opens up an opportunity to play with friends who play on other regions or a region where you might have better ping.

Alternatively, this opens up the possibility of playing Valorant solo queue in a more competitive region where you will be able to test yourself against the best players on the ladder.