VPN for PlayStation & Xbox Streaming (2025)
Using a VPN for media streaming and remote play on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S and One.
Jump to VPN picksConsoles cannot run VPN apps natively, but they do a lot more than games: Netflix, Disney+, regional TV apps and game streaming all run through them. Protecting and relocating this traffic typically requires router VPN or Smart DNS.
Streaming services update their VPN blocks regularly
Availability of streaming libraries and VPN endpoints can change over time. Always test your VPN with the services you care about during the money-back period and keep an eye on updated recommendations.
Quick answer: best VPNs for PlayStation and Xbox streaming
Short answer: NordVPN, Surfshark and PureVPN are strong options for console streaming, thanks to their router support, Smart DNS offerings and good baseline speeds for both games and video.
Why you need a VPN for PlayStation and Xbox streaming
Router-level VPN or Smart DNS for consoles:
- Encrypts or reroutes all console traffic via a central gateway.
- Allows access to streaming apps and game stores from other regions.
- Reduces ISP insight into what you watch or download through the console.
How to use a VPN with PlayStation and Xbox
- Configure your VPN on a compatible router or set up a virtual VPN router on your PC/Mac.
- Connect your console to that VPN-backed network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
- Alternatively, configure Smart DNS from your VPN on the console's network settings for region-shifting without full encryption.
- Restart the console, then open Netflix, Disney+ or regional apps to confirm region changes.
- Test an online game to ensure latency is acceptable; if not, try nearer VPN locations or disable VPN for gaming sessions while keeping it for streaming.
Console-specific VPN challenges
NAT type changes break online multiplayer
Some VPN setups force strict NAT, which can break voice chat or matchmaking. In that case, consider using Smart DNS only for streaming, or split your network so consoles used mainly for gaming bypass the VPN.
Best VPNs for PlayStation and Xbox streaming
NordVPN
Top speeds • Massive server network • Works with all streaming services
- 8,400+ servers in 126 countries
- NordLynx (WireGuard) protocol
- No-logs policy (audited)
- 24/7 customer support
✓ 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
Surfshark
Unlimited devices • Best value • Perfect for families
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- CleanWeb (ad & malware blocker)
- MultiHop (double VPN)
✓ 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
IPVanish
Unlimited devices • Owns all servers • Great for gaming
- 2,200+ servers in 75+ locations
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- WireGuard protocol support
- No-logs policy
✓ 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare prices, speeds, streaming reliability and privacy features.
| VPN Provider | Regular Price | Black Friday Price | Discount | Bonus | Rating | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| | $11.99/mo | $2.99/mo | 72% OFF | +3 Months | ★ 4.7 | Get Deal → |
| | $15.45/mo | $1.99/mo | 87% OFF | +3 Months | ★ 4.6 | Get Deal → |
| | $12.99/mo | $2.49/mo | 81% OFF | +2 Months | ★ 4.2 | Get Deal → |
NordVPN
Regular Price
$11.99/mo
Black Friday
$2.99/mo
Discount
72% OFF
Rating
★ 4.7
+3 Bonus Months
Get NordVPN Deal → Surfshark
Regular Price
$15.45/mo
Black Friday
$1.99/mo
Discount
87% OFF
Rating
★ 4.6
+3 Bonus Months
Get Surfshark Deal → IPVanish
Regular Price
$12.99/mo
Black Friday
$2.49/mo
Discount
81% OFF
Rating
★ 4.2
+2 Bonus Months
Get IPVanish Deal →Detailed Provider Reviews
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services with top-tier security, blazing-fast speeds, and excellent streaming capabilities. Perfect for users who want reliable performance and robust privacy protection.
Pros
- Excellent speeds with NordLynx
- Massive server network
- Strong security features
- Works with Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer
Cons
- Desktop app can be slow to connect
- Limited to 10 devices
2. Surfshark
Surfshark offers incredible value with unlimited device connections and robust security features. Ideal for families or users with multiple devices who want premium VPN protection at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Best value - unlimited devices
- Strong security and privacy
- Works with major streaming platforms
- Very affordable pricing
Cons
- Smaller server network than competitors
- Speeds can vary on distant servers
3. IPVanish
IPVanish owns its entire server network and offers unlimited connections. A solid choice for US users and gamers who need reliable speeds and multiple device support.
Pros
- Unlimited device connections
- Owns and operates all servers
- Good speeds for gaming
- Simple interface
Cons
- Based in US (Five Eyes)
- Smaller server network
- Doesn't work with all streaming services
Related VPN Guides
Explore more streaming and deal guides that help you choose the right VPN.
Choose the Best VPN for PlayStation and Xbox streaming
Pick a VPN that balances streaming reliability, speed and privacy. All providers here include at least a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test them from your own network.
Frequently Asked Questions
VPN use alone is not a ban reason, but abusing region pricing or violating terms can be. Always review Sony and Microsoft's policies before changing regions aggressively.