5 Best VPNs for CODM & How to Use One With COD in 2025

A VPN can change how you experience Call of Duty Mobile (CODM) by giving you access to bot lobbies, lowering your ping, and protecting you from DDoS attacks. But finding the right VPN for CODM and other Call of Duty titles isn’t easy — most struggle with high latency, lack servers in key regions, or disconnect during critical moments.

My team and I tested over 70 providers to find the best VPNs for COD. After analyzing ping rates, server locations, and security features, we identified VPNs that deliver smooth, secure gaming. These can help you get easier matches, better connection speeds, or access to different game servers. Plus, they're all easy to set up and use with COD.

ExpressVPN is my top choice for Call of Duty Mobile because it delivers consistently low ping and fast speeds for lag-free gaming. Plus, it has strong security features and a large server network to secure your gameplay even when you’re playing on new servers. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free since it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee*. If you're not satisfied, getting a refund is hassle-free.

Best VPNs for Call of Duty Mobile — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — Lowest Ping for Lag-Free CODM Gaming

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested August 2025

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

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Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN delivered the lowest ping in our CODM testing. On ExpressVPN’s nearby US servers, we maintained a low ping under 12ms with only a 4% speed reduction. These excellent speeds held steady even during intense firefights on both Android and iOS devices. Even on distant UK and German servers, our ping stayed under 85ms — significantly better than other VPNs that exceeded 100ms on similar connections.

The ping remained stable throughout our gaming session

This excellent performance is largely thanks to its proprietary Lightway protocol. It's specifically optimized to maintain low ping while using minimal system resources. During our 3-hour testing sessions, our devices stayed cool and the battery drain was lower than other VPNs we tested. This means you can enjoy longer gaming sessions without worrying about your phone overheating or running out of power.

Thanks to its large server network, you can play COD titles with friends abroad and find bot lobbies. By connecting to less popular regions, we could shoot easy targets in both CODM Global and Garena. And since ExpressVPN has plenty of servers worldwide, you won’t have to worry about server overcrowding.

The only drawback with ExpressVPN is its slightly higher price compared to some other options. However, it frequently offers discounts so you can save. Plus, you can try it risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're not satisfied, getting a refund is easy through the 24/7 live chat support.

Useful Features

• Strong security. ExpressVPN uses military-grade encryption and offers IP/DNS leak protection to ensure your COD sessions stay safe. Its Network Lock feature (kill switch) prevents data leaks if your VPN connection drops, protecting you from potential DDoS attacks.
• Router compatibility. ExpressVPN offers the easiest router setup of all the VPNs we tested, with custom firmware for popular models. This is perfect if you want to use the VPN connection on multiple devices or protect your entire gaming setup. Its Aircove and Aircove Go routers come pre-configured if you prefer a plug-and-play solution.
• Split tunneling. Route only COD traffic through the VPN while keeping other apps on your regular connection. During our tests, we played in bot lobbies while watching YouTube videos without any buffering on our local network.
• Advanced Protection. ExpressVPN's built-in ad blocker kept our browsing smooth while checking CODM guides and loadout recommendations — it blocked intrusive ads and potential malware.

2. CyberGhost — Gaming-Optimized Servers to Easily Find the Ideal Connection for COD

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost simplifies server selection with its dedicated gaming servers. These optimized connections are specifically configured for low-latency gaming and grouped separately from regular connections. During our tests on its US gaming servers, we recorded a ping rate of only 14ms, and the speed drop never exceeded 10%. The game was playable even on distant UK gaming servers.

Its dedicated gaming servers gave us slightly lower ping

These gaming servers are currently limited to desktop use, but CyberGhost’s regular servers perform just as well for mobile gaming. Its regular US servers also gave us a low ping of 17ms with minimal speed loss. Plus, it has a large server network, so you can quickly find alternative servers if a location gets overcrowded.

CyberGhost also offers dedicated IP addresses for a small additional fee. Having your own private IP address means you'll never deal with overcrowded servers since you're the only one using that specific connection. This also reduces the chances of your IP being flagged as suspicious, helping maintain stable access to game servers.

One minor drawback is that CyberGhost's monthly option is expensive and only comes with a short money-back guarantee. However, its long-term options offer better value and include a more generous 45-day guarantee. This means you can test it risk-free and get a refund if it’s not for you.

Useful Features

• Router support. CyberGhost is compatible with many router models, and it took us around 15 minutes to install it on an Asus router. However, it doesn’t have custom router firmware like ExpressVPN, so you’ll have to manually configure it when you want to change servers.
• Smart rules. Set CyberGhost to automatically connect to your preferred gaming server when you launch CODM or other COD titles. This means you can jump straight into matches without manually selecting a server each time.
• Protection against DDoS attacks. In addition to IP/DNS leak protection and a kill switch, it comes with a built-in NAT firewall to protect your Call of Duty gaming sessions from potential DDoS attacks. This filters out suspicious data packets and ensures that only the data you requested reaches your device.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Customizable Security to Optimize Your Connection for COD

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA gives you complete control over your COD connection with its customizable security features. You can switch between OpenVPN (with 128-bit or 256-bit encryption) and WireGuard, letting you balance security and speed for your needs. During our PIA tests, switching from 256-bit to 128-bit encryption gave us a speed boost of 5% and a 1ms lower ping for CODM.

We didn't experience any slowdowns or connection issues while playing

With the largest server network of any CODM VPN we tested, finding less competitive lobbies was consistently easy. The extensive coverage means you'll always have multiple server options in many regions. Whether you want to play CODM, Warzone Mobile, or other COD titles on PC, you can always find a speedy nearby connection.

PIA's wealth of customization options can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to VPNs. However, the app comes pre-configured with optimal settings, so you can start playing immediately without adjusting anything.

PIA offers excellent value for money with its long-term purchases. You can test it risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee — if you're not satisfied, getting a full refund is straightforward and hassle-free.

Useful Features

• Robust security. PIA protects your COD gaming sessions from DDoS attacks and other threats with its DNS/IP leak protection, kill switch, and strong encryption.
• Real-time server monitoring. PIA shows live server load and latency data right in the app, helping you find the ideal server for CODM. When bot lobbies in one region get too competitive, you can easily identify and connect to another low-latency server alternative.

4. NordVPN — Obfuscated Servers to Play CODM on Restrictive Networks

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's obfuscated servers are ideal for playing COD Mobile on restrictive networks. These servers disguise your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it harder to detect and block. This is particularly useful if you want to play COD titles on school or university networks that typically restrict gaming and VPN use.

You can only use obfuscated servers with OpenVPN connections

Setting up and using NordVPN is straightforward across all devices. If you play COD on a PC or mobile, simply install the app and connect to your preferred server. Console players can either share their VPN connection from a PC or install NordVPN directly on their router. You can find detailed setup guides for routers on NordVPN’s website.

One minor drawback is that NordVPN's Windows app can take up to 30 seconds to launch. However, once it was running, we experienced no connection drops or performance issues across multiple gaming sessions.

It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it with COD completely free. If it’s not for you, it’s easy to get a full refund.

Useful Features

• Meshnet. This lets you host private COD matches with up to 60 players over a virtual LAN network. This means you can play with friends all over the world. However, the best results come from connecting with players in nearby regions to maintain low latency.
• NordLynx protocol. Just like ExpressVPN, NordVPN offers its own NordLynx protocol. This proprietary technology, based on WireGuard, delivered consistently low ping in our tests without compromising security. For instance the ping on nearby servers never exceeded 20ms.

5. Surfshark — Unlimited Connections to Play COD Games on Any Device

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark's unlimited connections let you protect all your COD gaming devices at once. During our tests, we played CODM on an iPhone while running Warzone Mobile on a Samsung tablet and Modern Warfare on a console. Despite multiple active devices, we didn't experience any bandwidth issues or connection drops during our gaming sessions.

The ping stayed below 100ms even on the long-distance London server

With servers in 100 countries, Surfshark makes it easy to connect to less popular regions and access bot lobbies in COD. During our Surfshark tests, we connected to a low-ping server in Argentina and immediately found ourselves in a Warzone Mobile match filled with bots. This is great for practicing your skills or enjoying a more relaxed gaming session.

The only problem with Surfshark is that some servers can be a bit slow to connect. But we didn’t face this problem too frequently. And once connected, the gameplay was smooth, and there were no interruptions.

I recommend signing up for Surfshark's long-term offers because they offer the best value. You can test it risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• 10Gbps servers. All of Surfshark’s servers run on 10Gbps ports, which can handle more users without slowdowns. In our tests, these servers delivered just a 9% speed drop and maintained a low ping of 21ms on nearby connections.
• Dynamic Multihop. This routes your traffic through two different servers of your choice, adding an extra layer of protection from DDoS attacks during competitive CODM matches.

Quick Comparison Table: COD VPN Features

The following table compares important features of a Call of Duty VPN. You'll see each VPN in terms of its server network, average speeds, and simultaneous device connections. I’ve also included whether or not each VPN offers dedicated router firmware. This makes it super easy to change settings or switch servers when playing on a console or another device that doesn't natively support VPN apps.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for CODM and Other COD Titles

We prioritized features that directly impact your Call of Duty experience. Our tests measured ping rates and speed losses across key gaming regions, with strong focus on Southeast Asia and areas known for less competitive lobbies. Each VPN underwent extensive testing for both Global and Garena versions as well as other COD titles like Warzone, while our security checks verified DDoS protection during competitive matches.

Beyond connection metrics, we evaluated practical gaming features. We tested each VPN's performance under different network conditions, checked connection stability across devices, and assessed setup complexity for both mobile and console gaming. For a complete look at our testing process, visit our VPN testing methodology page.

Benefits of Using a VPN With COD

A VPN can dramatically improve your Call of Duty experience. Here's what you can do with a reliable gaming VPN:

• Enhanced connection stability. If your ISP throttles gaming traffic during peak hours, a VPN helps maintain consistent speeds by encrypting your data. This prevents your provider from identifying and slowing down your COD traffic.
• Protection from DDoS attacks. Your real IP address stays hidden when using a VPN, preventing other players from targeting you with DDoS attacks. This is especially crucial during tournaments or competitive matches.
• Better routing. Sometimes, your ISP's path to COD servers isn't optimal. A VPN can provide a more direct route, potentially reducing ping and lag spikes.
• Access to different game servers. Connect to various regional servers to find matches that suit your play style. Whether you're looking for less competitive lobbies in Warzone or want to play with friends in other regions, a VPN gives you more options.
• Bypass network restrictions. Many schools, offices, and public networks block gaming traffic. A VPN encrypts your connection, meaning you can play CODM even on restrictive networks.

How to Set Up and Use a VPN With COD

Setting up a VPN for Call of Duty varies depending on your device. While mobile and PC users can install a VPN directly, you’ll need additional setup if you’re a console player. Follow our guide below to get started with your preferred platform.

For PC and Mobile

Getting started with a VPN on a PC or mobile is quick and straightforward. Here's how to do it:

1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN for its low ping and large server network. Head to its website and download the appropriate app for your device.
2. Install and sign in. Follow the installation wizard and log in to your account. The app will guide you through the initial setup process.
3. Choose a server. Connect to a server that matches your needs — nearby locations for better speeds or specific regions for different lobbies.
4. Launch Call of Duty. Open your game and start playing with VPN protection. Your connection is now secure and ready for gaming.

For Consoles (PlayStation and Xbox)

Since consoles don't support direct VPN installation, you have two methods to use a VPN. The PC method is quicker to set up but may impact speeds slightly, while the router method offers better performance but requires more initial setup time.

PC Method

1. Set up the VPN. Install and launch your chosen VPN on your Windows PC.
2. Create a hotspot. Open Windows Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile hotspot and turn it on.
3. Share the connection. Right-click your VPN connection in Network Settings > Properties > Sharing and allow other devices to use it.
4. Connect your console. On your PlayStation or Xbox, connect to the hotspot you just created.

Router Method

The exact steps for setting up a VPN on your router may vary depending on your router model and chosen provider, but here's the general process:

1. Access your router. Type your router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) in your browser and log in to the admin panel.
2. Install VPN firmware. Download your VPN's router firmware (ExpressVPN offers custom firmware for many router models) and upload it through your router's admin panel.
3. Configure the VPN. Follow your VPN provider's setup guide to complete the configuration and connect to a server.
4. Connect your console. Once the VPN is active on your router, simply connect your console to your WiFi network. You can now use the VPN for COD on your console.

FAQs on VPNs for Call of Duty

What if my VPN isn’t working with Call of Duty Mobile?

Not all VPNs are reliable for gaming, so it's important to choose one that works without issues. If you're using a reputable VPN and still experiencing issues with COD Mobile, try these steps:

1. Switch servers. Connect to a different VPN server, preferably one closer to your location. It’s possible that there are issues with the server you’re connected to.
2. Update your VPN app. Ensure you're using the latest version of your VPN app. Outdated versions may have bugs or compatibility issues that can affect your gaming experience.
3. Configure network settings. Enable UDP in your VPN settings if available, as it typically performs better than TCP for gaming. Also make sure split tunneling is disabled to prevent connection conflicts.
4. Optimize mobile performance. Close background apps, especially those that might be using network resources. This helps dedicate more bandwidth to CODM.
5. Test different protocols. Switch between available protocols — Lightway and WireGuard usually offer the best gaming performance, while OpenVPN is more reliable on restrictive networks.
6. Clear connection data. Force-stop CODM, clear its cache, and then disconnect and reconnect your VPN before launching the game. This resets any conflicting network settings.

If problems persist, contact your VPN's support team. Top providers offer 24/7 live chat support and can provide immediate assistance.

Will a VPN slow down my internet and cause a high ping in CODM?

A VPN can slow down your internet and cause a higher ping, but if you choose a reliable service like those we recommended, this shouldn't be very noticeable, especially on nearby servers. This is because a VPN adds an extra step to your connection, routing your traffic through a VPN server before reaching the game server. This additional distance can result in higher latency and potentially slower speeds.

Interestingly, a VPN can sometimes improve your connection, especially if your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is throttling your bandwidth. Some ISPs intentionally slow down certain types of traffic, including gaming. By encrypting your data and hiding it from your ISP, a VPN can potentially bypass these restrictions, resulting in better speeds and lower ping for COD Mobile.

Can I get banned for using a VPN with COD?

Using a VPN with Call of Duty is unlikely to result in a ban since VPNs are commonly used for legitimate purposes like protecting against DDoS attacks and reducing lag. However, Activision's Terms of Service prohibit the use of any software to gain an unfair advantage over other players.

For the safest experience, stick to using VPNs primarily for security and connection optimization. And if you're participating in official tournaments, check the specific rules about VPN usage first.

What's the difference between CODM Global and Garena?

CODM Global and Garena are two versions of the same game, published by different companies for different regions. CODM Global is published by Activision and is available in most countries worldwide, while Garena is published by Garena and is available only in Southeast Asian countries. That said, it’s possible to safely access it from outside SEA countries using a VPN, though this could violate the game's terms of service.

The main difference is that they have separate servers, so players can't cross-play between versions. They also have different in-game events and promotions, and there may be slight variations in content updates and release timing.

Can I play Call of Duty using a free VPN?

A free VPN might work with Call of Duty, but I don’t recommend it. Instead, it's worth opting for a premium VPN since they’re more likely to offer fast speeds, stable connections, and reliable security. Free VPNs typically come with limited data caps, restricted server options, and throttled speeds that make gaming frustrating. Most lack the server capacity to handle gaming traffic, resulting in high ping and frequent disconnections during matches.

More importantly, many free VPNs have questionable security practices. They might log your gaming data, lack proper encryption, or even sell your information to third parties. Some can even expose you to DDoS attacks — exactly what you're trying to avoid. It’s simply not worth it since all the VPNs we recommend offer affordable long-term plans and money-back guarantees, letting you test them risk-free with Call of Duty.

Get the Best VPN for Call of Duty

A reliable VPN can significantly enhance your Call of Duty experience across all titles, from CODM to Warzone and Modern Warfare. It can protect you from malicious attacks, secure your data and identity, and help you avoid ISP throttling. You can also use a VPN to connect to a server in a country where the game isn’t as popular, which lets you compete against bots for easy lobbies.

My favorite VPN for Call of Duty games is ExpressVPN. Its global server network, strong security features, and fast speeds make it well-suited for COD. Plus, its native router firmware makes setting it up and using it on consoles way less complicated than most other VPNs. And since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test all of ExpressVPN's features risk-free. If it doesn’t work out, you can get a full refund.