5 Best VPNs for Apex Legends — Lag-Free Gaming in 2023

If you play Apex Legends, you know how important it is to have a reliable way to overcome issues like high ping and DDoS attacks. Even worse, the strict Apex Legends ranking system may force you to only compete with high-skill players or prevent you from playing with your friends in other regions. A good VPN offers a quick and easy solution to many of these challenges.

The team and I tested 40+ VPNs to find the best ones for playing Apex Legends. Every VPN on this list has fast speeds for smooth gaming and a worldwide server network to optimize your gameplay and connection. Plus, they come with robust security, reliably hide your real location, and encrypt your traffic, which helps you avoid cyber threats.

ExpressVPN is my top choice for Apex Legends because it has consistently fast servers and solid security features, letting you play the game without any issues. Plus, it’s even backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN with Apex Legends risk-free.

Play Apex Legends With ExpressVPN >>

Best VPNs for Apex Legends — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Servers to Play Apex Legends Without Lag

ExpressVPN has consistently fast connection speeds for playing Apex Legends with low ping and no interruptions. While using its Lightway protocol, my download speed hovered at around 91 Mbps, while the average upload speed was 55 Mbps. It’s impressive because the minimum requirement for the game is only 512 Kbps, so I didn’t experience any lag or performance issues.

The ping was low while using ExpressVPN, even on distant servers

Since ExpressVPN offers many servers around the world, it’s very unlikely to have an issue with overcrowding. I tried locations like Indonesia, London, LA, and Sydney, and all of them provided reliable connections. The Smart Location feature automatically picks the best server based on distance, latency, and speed, so you’ll have the optimal gaming experience anywhere.

Security is also top-notch to protect you against cyber threats or harassment while playing Apex Legends, like DDoS attacks and swatting. I tested ExpressVPN multiple times for IP leaks, but it always came back clean. Plus, a kill switch prevents your IP from leaking whenever you disconnect the VPN or change servers. This means your IP or location will never be exposed, so you can’t be targeted.

The only downside with ExpressVPN is that it’s a bit expensive. However, I managed to get the longest plan for $6.67/month and 3 months free, thanks to its frequent deals for new customers. Plus, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN with Apex Legends risk-free. It has a highly responsive 24/7 live chat, so you can ask for a refund at any time.

Useful Features

• MediaStreamer. This is ExpressVPN’s Smart DNS feature, which offers US and UK DNS addresses you can use for playing the game. It lets you change your location on gaming consoles, which usually don’t support native VPN apps. You only need to change the network settings of your console and paste the DNS address given in your ExpressVPN account dashboard.
• Router app and firmware. ExpressVPN is the only VPN on this list with a dedicated router app and firmware. This makes it easier to install and use on your router. Once you have it configured, you can play Apex Legends on any compatible device that’s connected to that router.
• TrustedServer technology. All of ExpressVPN’s servers are RAM-based, so your data is deleted from them after each reboot. This means that none of your identifiable information or online activity is stored, giving you peace of mind while playing Apex Legends or anything else.
• Built-in speed test. If you're a Mac user, you can take advantage of this feature to check the speed and latency of all ExpressVPN’s servers to find the ideal one for Apex Legends.

Play Apex Legends With ExpressVPN >>

2. CyberGhost — Gaming-Optimized Servers to Play Apex Legends Hassle-Free

CyberGhost has servers specifically optimized for gaming with low ping. They’re strategically located in different regions worldwide, meaning you can play Apex Legends with anyone from anywhere. I tested many of its servers spread across Australia, Germany, and the US and had uninterrupted gameplay throughout. The VPN was stable, and I didn’t experience any sudden connection drops.

You can also see info about the ping and distance to each of these servers, which makes it much easier to choose one that would give you the best experience possible.

I used CyberGhost's Frankfurt gaming server for testing

The only small issue is that sometimes servers that are far away from your location can be slower. I experienced a drop of more than 30% on the US ones since I was in Europe, which was a lot more than what I got with ExpressVPN. However, on nearby servers, I got 90 Mbps on average, which was more than enough for me to play Apex Legends without interruptions.

CyberGhost offers short- and long-term plans, so you can choose one that best fits your needs. The monthly plan has a 14-day money-back guarantee. Its long-term plans make up for it with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can test CyberGhost completely risk-free.

Useful Features

• WireGuard. CyberGhost gives you the option of using the fast WireGuard protocol for smooth connection speeds when playing Apex Legends. This protocol is also one of the most secure, next to OpenVPN, so your data will be protected too.
• Dedicated IP. For a small fee, you can purchase your own exclusive IP. This may help avoid getting flagged by online games like Apex Legends as suspicious for using a shared IP.
• Smart DNS. This allows you to set up CyberGhost on your VPN-incompatible gaming console to change your Apex Legends location without encryption slowing you down.
• Smart Rules. CyberGhost allows you to set custom rules for connecting. Set it to always connect when you’re using unprotected Wi-Fi or right when you launch Apex Legends for a seamless experience.

Play Apex Legends With CyberGhost >>

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Advanced Settings to Fine-Tune Your Apex Legends Performance

PIA is one of the rare VPNs that let you customize a lot of its settings, which in turn balances out security and speeds for gaming. I was able to noticeably improve my speeds by switching to 128-bit encryption and the WireGuard protocol. When everyone is home using the same Wi-Fi, enabling small packets also helps keep your connection stable and faster.

Whenever I had performance issues, I could easily solve them using PIA’s advanced settings

All the customization options can prove to be a bit overwhelming if you’re a new VPN user. However, using the default settings gives you a good connection for gaming, so you don’t need to change anything if you don’t want to.

PIA can also be set up on VPN-compatible routers, so you can enjoy secure gaming on multiple devices. In my PIA tests, I successfully used the VPN connection on my PS5, Xbox One, and Android phone just by connecting to the router. If you struggle, you can always reach out to the helpful 24/7 live chat support, and there are plenty of guides in the online documentation.

PIA’s long-term plans offer good value for money, especially if you subscribe to the longest-term plan at just $2.03/month. If you’re not ready to commit just yet, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• MACE. This feature blocks ads, malware, and trackers, ensuring a smoother and safer gaming experience in Apex Legends by reducing distractions and unwanted network traffic. It can block pop-ups on gaming forums if you visit them frequently.
• Server latency. PIA displays the latency of each server in the app dashboard, so you can quickly identify the fastest one to play Apex Legends without lag.
• Advanced kill switch. This kill switch is different from the regular one in that it doesn’t let you connect to the internet until you turn PIA on, which prevents IP leaks.
• Port forwarding. PIA is one of the few VPNs that offer port forwarding, which can enhance connectivity by reducing ping when you host your own lobbies.

Play Apex Legends With PIA >>

4. NordVPN — Easy-to-Use VPN for Apex Legends With Intuitive Server Selection

NordVPN is one of the VPNs with the most user-friendly and intuitive apps for a wide range of devices. Sporting a clean, sleek, and minimalist design, it makes navigation very easy, even if you’re new to VPNs. You have multiple ways to find the ideal server for Apex Legends — a visual world map, a server list, a search bar, and server categories. Even its more advanced tools, like split tunneling and connection settings, are easy to find and use.

You can click on some regions to zoom in and find more server options

One potential drawback for international Apex Legends gamers is that it offers servers in fewer countries globally. This might limit your options to strategically reduce ping times. However, it still consistently delivers impressive connection speeds, thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol (built on WireGuard). I tested multiple NordVPN servers, and it always provided a smooth gaming experience, even when using faraway ones.

NordVPN offers a variety of flexible pricing packages with different subscription lengths and features. Long-term plans start at just $3.49/month. You can try any of its plans risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Dedicated IP. You get access to NordVPN’s dedicated IP servers for free with any plan, and you can purchase an exclusive dedicated IP that only you can use. Because they aren’t shared, these IPs are less likely to be flagged as suspicious by online games like Apex Legends.
• Threat Protection Lite. This blocks ads and malicious domains that may impact your available bandwidth for Apex Legends.
• Obfuscated servers. These servers mask your VPN activity, allowing you to play Apex Legends while using restrictive Wi-Fi networks.

Play Apex Legends With NordVPN >>

5. Surfshark — Find Bot Lobbies on Apex Legends With Surfshark’s Servers in 100 Countries

With servers in the most countries on this list, Surfshark offers you the most options to play Apex Legends the way you want. You can strategically connect to servers closer to the game's servers for faster speeds or regions with lower player density to play in bot lobbies. This flexibility allows you to get a competitive edge and enjoy smoother gameplay, regardless of where you are. I often used the Singapore server for easier matchmaking.

Surfshark also offers different static IP servers in some countries

I did notice that the gaming experience may vary (in terms of speeds) based on which server you use. However, I never had issues with nearby servers. Plus, the in-app speed test allows you to quickly find the fastest servers by region, which should help you avoid game-breaking lag. Plus, it has two Quick-connect options, Fastest location and Nearest country, for finding the best server.

You can try out Surfshark for playing Apex Legends yourself, as it backs its service with a 30-day money-back guarantee. It’s also one of the most affordable VPNs with unlimited simultaneous device connections, with its longest-term package costing just $2.30/month.

Useful Features

• Automatic protocol selection. This feature will choose the fastest and most stable protocol so that your Apex Legends matches don’t get interrupted.
• NoBorders. This feature automatically activates when it detects internet restrictions, enabling Apex Legends players to connect to specific servers that it suggests for that particular network.
• Bypasser. By binding Apex Legends to Surfshark or letting it bypass the VPN, you can ensure you always play with your IP protected and optimal server routing.

Play Apex Legends With Surfshark >>

Quick Comparison Table: Apex Legends VPN Features

Below, you can compare the most important features when choosing the best VPN for Apex Legends:

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Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Apex Legends

Having a VPN for Apex Legends is crucial for multiple reasons. When selecting a VPN, there are a few factors to consider:

• Fast speeds and low ping. You want a VPN with excellent connection speeds and unlimited bandwidth for uninterrupted gameplay. Low ping is essential to enjoy multiplayer games online. Slow speeds or a high ping rate can cause FPS drops and laggy gameplay.
• A large number of servers. A VPN with a large server network is ideal, so you can choose servers close to the game’s servers and close to you for optimal performance. You can enjoy gaming with your usual squad in your usual ranking region from anywhere or try a new environment. More servers mean that you’re less likely to experience network slowdowns or connection drops due to overcrowding. Moreover, it’s easier to get around geo-blocks and access game content when you have an extensive server network.
• Diverse device compatibility. Choose a VPN that supports all your devices, including mobile phones, laptops, gaming consoles, tablets, routers, and more. If you play Apex Legends on a device that doesn’t support VPN, look for one with a Smart DNS feature.
• Strong security. Look for a VPN with strong security to protect you from hackers. An automatic kill switch cuts off your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing IP leaks. Then, military-grade encryption makes your data impenetrable and helps avoid DDoS attacks.
• Responsive customer support. If you’re suffering from connection or performance issues, technical support may be able to provide you with workarounds. Look for a VPN with 24/7 live chat support, so you can get back to playing Apex Legends fast.
• Affordable prices and refunds. Most top VPNs don’t actually cost that much, so you can find one within your budget. If you’re worried about risking your money, use one with a tried-and-tested money-back guarantee.

Get ExpressVPN for Apex Legends >>

How to Use a VPN to Get Easy Lobbies in Apex Legends

It’s well-known that different regions have different levels of competitiveness in Apex Legends. So, you can find easy lobbies by trying out different servers. Generally, low-population servers have a lower overall skill level and easier games. However, simply connecting to a different server may also slow down your connection due to inefficient routing, which a VPN can help with.

If you play ranked at the Masters or Apex Predators level, you will also be unable to play with lower-level players due to region locks. In this case, you’ll need to change your IP to make it looks like you’re physically in another region.

1. Sign up for a VPN service. I recommend ExpressVPN because of its lightning-fast speeds and huge server network to play Apex Legends lag-free from anywhere.
2. Download the VPN. Launch the app once you’re done, or alternatively you can set it up via your router or game console settings.
3. Choose a server. Pick one that’s located near the game server you want to connect to for optimum performance.
4. Launch Apex Legends. Choose a lower-population server to play on that will be close to the VPN server location.
5. Start playing Apex Legends. You can retry steps 3–5 until you find a server with your preferred skill level.

Play Apex Legends With ExpressVPN >>

Benefits of Using a VPN for Apex Legends

Apex Legends has some of the strictest ranking algorithms in competitive gaming, which makes optimizing your performance essential. Players often face challenges such as DDoS attacks and throttling from ISPs, putting them at a disadvantage. Not to mention inefficient connection routing if you play on servers far from your physical location. Regional ranking blocks also prevent high-ranking players from playing with friends in another geographic location.

A VPN reroutes your traffic through a different server, masking your real location and changing your IP address. For example, if you’re in Germany and connect to a server in the US, it will appear as if you’re in the US.

Utilizing a VPN enables you to establish connections with servers in close proximity to your desired Apex Legends servers. As a result, this has the potential to enhance data throughput by employing a more direct route, thereby reducing ping. Additionally, it grants you the ability to modify your ranking pool, facilitating gameplay with friends or accessing less challenging bot lobbies.

VPNs also help you avoid ISP throttling based on your gaming activity by encrypting your traffic so that no one knows you’re playing Apex Legends. Additionally, by masking your real IP, a VPN protects you against potential DDoS attacks or swatting attempts from griefers.

Try ExpressVPN for Apex Legends >>

FAQs on VPNs for Apex Legends

How can I fix lag and high ping in Apex Legends?

Even though it sounds a bit counter-intuitive, you can use a VPN to fix lag and high ping. The reason why your game is lagging can sometimes be just pure ISP throttling. Some ISPs can throttle your speeds and limit your bandwidth when it sees a lot of data usage coming from your IP. A VPN masks your real IP and replaces it with a new one. Plus, it encrypts your traffic, so no one, not even your ISP, will know what you’re doing online.

It’s also important to choose a VPN with many servers located close to the game server you’re trying to connect to. Apex Legends game server locations include the US, UK, Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Bahrain, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Connecting near these locations will improve your chances of lag-free gaming with lower ping.

Keep in mind that sometimes high ping can be associated with your device’s OS not meeting the minimum requirements for playing Apex Legends. So make sure to check your device compatibility, too. Other reasons can be bugs that the developers usually fix quickly or the game’s servers being down or working slowly.

Can I use a free VPN for Apex Legends?

You can, but it’s not recommended. Free VPNs rarely work for gaming due to their small overcrowded server networks, bandwidth limitations, and slow speeds. They’re also unreliable and lack important security features. Instead, consider getting a paid VPN like ExpressVPN that offers fast servers and robust security. Plus, premium VPNs come with money-back guarantees, which gives you enough time to test them out risk-free.

Will I get banned for playing Apex Legends with a VPN?

It’s perfectly okay to use a VPN when playing Apex Legends. EA clearly states that you won’t get banned simply for using a VPN. Even many pro players use VPNs to protect themselves from swatting or DDoS attacks. All of the shortlisted VPNs have many fast servers for low-latency gaming as well as features to prevent data and IP leaks.

However, you can get banned if you use a VPN to violate EA’s terms of service. This includes in-game cheating, hacking, and connecting to a different location to make purchases at affordable prices. You should also be aware of the terms of use for your location.

VPNs are also legal in most countries, except for a handful with heavily censored internet, like China, Russia, and Iran. The team and I don’t condone using a VPN to break the law, and you should inform yourself of the local laws before using one.

Will a VPN work with Apex Legends Mobile?

You can use a VPN to play any mobile game, including Apex Legends Mobile. Make sure to use a VPN that can easily bypass geo-restrictions, so you can play hassle-free. Top VPN providers come with user-friendly and secure apps for Android and iOS devices, so you can play Apex Legends on the go without interruptions. You can also play it on your Wi-Fi-connected mobile device by setting up a VPN on your router.

Can I use a VPN to bypass an Apex Legends ban?

Yes, a VPN may help you bypass an Apex Legends ban. If you’ve been IP banned, you can mask your real IP and get a new one by connecting to a VPN server. However, EA mostly uses HWID (Hardware Identification) bans, which target your physical device. In this case, you’ll need to play Apex Legends on a new device and create a new account.

Get the Best VPN for Apex Legends

Apex Legends is one of the biggest battle royale hits. However, ping and lag issues can ruin your gameplay. You might also encounter harassment by griefers or hackers and blocks, preventing you from accessing game content and servers. A VPN can help you lower your latency by preventing ISP throttling and optimizing your connection to the game server.

ExpressVPN is my favorite for Apex Legends because it has consistently fast connection speeds for lag-free gameplay, a widespread server network, and top-notch security features to play the game safely from anywhere. Plus, it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN risk-free. If you’re not happy, you can get a full refund.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Apex Legends…