5 Best VPNs for Overwatch That Work in 2023

Are you an FPS (first person shooter) gamer? Then you must definitely be knowing about Overwatch. If you’re a seasoned gamer then you must also often be seeking ways to optimize your connection, reduce latency and enhance your privacy and security. To achieve this, gamers usually turn to VPNs. Today, we’ll be looking into how users can use a VPN to gain access to otherwise restricted features of the game in certain regions.

Overwatch, developed by Blizzard Entertainment, is a popular multiplayer FPS game. The game is centered around players engaging in thrilling battles, relying on teamwork and strategy to win. Millions of players worldwide are captivated by Overwatch due to its highly immersive and interactive gameplay plus it’s effective pre-dialogue and diverse characters to support its exhaustive lore always keeping communities interacting.

To enhance Overwatch gaming, players seek optimized connections, reduced latency, and improved privacy. A reliable VPN addresses all these limitations by creating a secure tunnel, safeguarding online activities.

Overwatch enables gamers to several advantages when using a VPN with it. Firstly, a VPN can help bypass geographical restrictions and access Overwatch servers and content that might be restricted or banned in certain regions. Certain gamers find these features particularly valuable since they reside in countries where Overwatch may be subject to restrictions or server limitations.

Moreover, A VPN reduces latency, improves connection stability by connecting to servers nearby Overwatch’s, and decreases lag due to a lowered ping. This enhances responsiveness, resulting in smoother and enjoyable Overwatch matches.

So, let’s get down to it and delve into the world of VPNs to find out why gamers need a best VPN for Overwatch and how to choose the best one for an uninterrupted gaming experience.

Why Do You Need a VPN to Play Overwatch?

Using a VPN when playing Overwatch improves lag and ping, enhances security against hackers and DDoS attacks, and unblocks voice chat in restricted VoIP countries. It provides an added layer of protection and ensures a seamless gaming experience.

A VPN is essential for playing Overwatch 2, as it helps bypass regional restrictions and errors faced by gamers in certain countries, especially in the regions of Middle Eastern region and China.

These situations demand the best VPN to be installed and connected to a US server in order to allow uninterrupted gameplay of Overwatch and Overwatch 2, overcoming regional restrictions and errors.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best VPN for Overwatch

Our criteria for considering the best VPN for Overwatch and Overwatch 2 depended on the analysis based off features that include speed, server network, security features, and device compatibility. They’re further discussed below:

• Super fast speeds: Our recommended VPN providers offer super fast speeds with low pings, ensuring a lag-free gaming experience for Overwatch players.
• Multiple servers: Our shortlisted VPNs provide multiple servers in various locations, so you can connect to the servers closest to your game servers. This proximity minimizes latency, resulting in a lag-free experience for Overwatch with a VPN.
• Strong security features: All VPNs on this list offer strong security with AES 256-bit encryption, ensuring gamers’ account protection against potential hacks.
• Multiple compatible devices: A good VPN for Overwatch is recognized by its app compatibility with various devices, including Windows, Xbox, and PlayStations. All the recommended providers in our list offer dedicated apps for PCs and gaming devices, ensuring complete compatibility.
• Price: When talking about pricing, the VPNs we reviewed and tested offer money-back guarantee or free trials, due to Overwatch being a free-to-play game. Additionally, they support multiple connections, allowing you and your friends to play Overwatch while staying protected together.

Reviewing the 5 Best VPNs for Overwatch

Here’s our take on the top 5 VPNs to play Overwatch:

ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Overwatch

Key Features:

• Works with Overwatch & Overwatch 2.
• Low-latency servers make it a great VPN for gaming.
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Router, PS4, Xbox, Chromebook, Roku, Smart TVs, Firestick, and Android TV box.
• Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Channel4, Hotstar, ITV, Sony Liv, Amazon Prime Video, and much more.
• More than 3,000 servers in 94 countries, and 25 server locations in the US.
• Five simultaneous connections.
• No-logs policy.

ExpressVPN stands out as the top choice for Overwatch, providing lightning-fast and reliable VPN connections that ensure anonymity while playing Overwatch 2 from any location. It is renowned as the VPN with the lowest latency, guaranteeing optimal gaming performance.

ExpressVPN boasts a vast server network of 3000+ servers across 94 countries, including 25 server locations in the US. This extensive network enables seamless connection to any Overwatch 2 VPN server, facilitating online gaming with friends and family worldwide. Additionally, this top-tier VPN can also help bypass PUBG game restrictions, making it the ideal choice for PUBG enthusiasts.

In addition to gaming, the reliable server network of ExpressVPN provides access to popular streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more. It also enhances your gaming experiences on Mobile Legends, Call of Duty, Valorant, and War Zone. ExpressVPN is renowned as the best VPN for Willow TV.

ExpressVPN was tested for gaming speed by connecting to its Overwatch US server IP. It achieved impressive download speed of 89.42 Mbps, upload speed of 84.64 Mbps, and low ping of 110 ms on a 100 Mbps connection.

ExpressVPN ensures online privacy with a strict zero-log policy, AES-256 encryption, TrustedServer network, and private DNS. It provides complete anonymity and data protection while playing Overwatch.

ExpressVPN allows simultaneous protection and enjoyment of Overwatch on 5 devices. It is highly compatible, supporting almost all the major devices Xbox, PS4, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Router, Chromebook, Roku, Smart TVs, Firestick, and Android TV boxes.

Enjoy uninterrupted access to game on Overwatch for $6.67 per month (49% Off + 3 Months FREE on a 12-Month Plan) with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

No customizable advanced featuresHigher subscription fee than competitors

Surfshark – The Budget-friendly VPN for Overwatch

Key Features:

• Works with Overwatch & Overwatch 2.
• Fast servers for uninterrupted gaming.
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, PS4, Xbox, Chromebook, and Android TV box.
• Enables access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Channel4, Hotstar, BT-Sports, NBC Live, Spotify, ESPN+, and more.
• More than 3,200 servers in 100 countries, and over 600 servers in US.
• Unlimited simultaneous connections.
• No-logs policy.

Surfshark is a cost-effective VPN for Overwatch, providing an excellent gaming experience at just $2.30 per month (Get 84% + 2 Months FREE on 2-Year Plan). Established in 2018, Surfshark has gained recognition as a top-tier VPN for Overwatch, offering affordability without compromising quality.

Surfshark boasts a vast server network of 3200+ servers in 100 countries, including 600+ servers in the US. These servers effectively bypass Overwatch geo-restrictions, ensuring an optimal gaming experience with minimal lag. Additionally, Surfshark can be used as the best VPN for Fortnite, providing lag-free connections for an enjoyable gaming session.

During our speed test for gaming Overwatch with Surfshark, we achieved outstanding download speeds of 86.24 Mbps and upload speeds of 53.72 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection, using their Miami server.

Surfshark’s standout feature is its unlimited simultaneous connections. With Surfshark, you can connect multiple devices like Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Roku, Xbox, PS4, and more, allowing you and your friends to play Overwatch together simultaneously.

The recommended Overwatch VPN offers AES-256-Bit encryption, an internet kill switch, clean web, secure DNS, and multi-hop for enhanced security and anonymity.

Surfshark offers affordable subscription plans starting at $2.30 per month (84% off + 2 Months FREE on a 2-Year Plan) and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

NordVPN – Secure VPN for Overwatch

Key features:

• Works with Overwatch & Overwatch 2.
• A vast network of superfast, low latency servers.
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Chromebook, Firestick, and Android TV box.
• Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Channel4, YuppTV US, Sling TV, Vudu, and more.
• 5,500+ servers in 60 countries, 1,970+ servers in US.
• Six simultaneous connections.
• No-logs policy.

NordVPN is a secure VPN for Overwatch, offering top-notch security and encryption tools. It protects your personal identity and data during online gameplay, ensuring a safe gaming experience.

While testing NordVPN, Nordlynx protocol provided low ping while gaming on Overwatch.

NordVPN offers 5,500+ servers in 60 countries, including 1,970+ servers in the US. With advanced encryption, it protects your identity and personal information during Overwatch leagues and tournaments.

NordVPN not only prioritizes security and privacy but also excels at bypassing geo-restrictions, granting unlimited access to popular gaming services like Roblox, Call of Duty, and Minecraft. It’s even included in our list of best VPNs for Mobile Legends. With a vast server network, NordVPN is also ideal for removing Fortnite IP bans, providing a wide range of IP addresses to change if you get banned.

During a NordVPN speed test while playing Overwatch, we recorded an impressive download speed of 83.82 Mbps and upload speeds of 44.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.

This VPN, based in Panama, ensures ultimate online security and privacy with AES-256-Bit encryption, internet kill switch, secure DNS, double VPN, Onion Over VPN, and obfuscated servers.

NordVPN’s premium subscription allows for 6 simultaneous connections. It is compatible with major popular devices like Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, Linux, router, Roku, Chromebook, and Xbox. You can even set it up on PS4 and more to enjoy Overwatch on any device.

The VPN is reasonably priced at $3.99 per month (57% Off + 3 Months FREE on a 2-Year Plan) with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost – The User-friendly VPN for Overwatch

Key features:

• Works with Overwatch & Overwatch 2.
• Superfast speeds for a lag-free gaming experience.
• Compatible with Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, Roku, Chromebook, Fire TV, Smart TV, Android TV box, and more.
• Unblocks Disney+, Hulu, ITV, Channel4, Netflix, Voot, Foxtel, Nine, CBS, EuroSports UK, and more.
• Over 9,700 servers in 91 countries
• Seven simultaneous connections
• No-logs policy

CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN for Overwatch, offering optimized servers for gaming, streaming, and more. Its dedicated online gaming servers guarantee an exceptional Overwatch experience. It’s an ideal choice for users facing restrictions and errors in countries like Oman, China, and the Middle East, making it the best VPN for these regions.

CyberGhost offers over 9,700 servers in 91 countries, providing optimized online experiences through division of multiple modes. Their user-friendly applications make server selection easy.

This VPN’s streaming capabilities bypass geo-restrictions, granting access to popular platforms like Disney+, Hulu, Netflix, Foxtel, Nine, CBS and more. It also enables access to games like Minecraft, Valorant, Call of Duty, PUBG, and more. Additionally, it proves effective in preventing IP bans in Minecraft, making it the perfect choice for gamers.

During the CyberGhost speed test, after connecting to its US servers, we were able to record an impressive download speed of 75.47 Mbps and upload speed of 69.34 Mbps on 100 Mbps connections.

CyberGhost, headquartered in Romania, ensures online privacy and security with a zero-log policy, AES-256 encryption, and DNS/IPv6 leak protection. Your online activities and personal data remain absolutely private and secure.

This provider offers 7 simultaneous connections and user-friendly apps for iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and more.

You can get CyberGhost at just $2.11 per month accommodated by a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Private Internet Access – Popular VPN for Overwatch

Key features:

• Works with Overwatch & Overwatch 2.
• Lightning speeds for nonstop gaming.
• Compatible with Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, Roku, Chromebook, and more.
• Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, BFI Player, Crave TV, ORF, Nine, CBS, and much more.
• 35,000+ servers in 84 countries.
• 10 simultaneous connections.
• No-logs policy.

Private Internet Access is a top VPN for Overwatch offering one of the largest server network and at a very reasonable pricing.

PIA VPN boasts an enormous server network of more than 35,000 servers in 84 countries. With such a vast number of IP addresses, it easily bypasses Overwatch server geo-restrictions, making it a favorite among the gaming communities.

Overwatch 2 didn’t even stand a chance against PIA’s huge network of servers when unblocking the game.

A VPN grants unlimited access to streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, BFI Player, Crave TV, CBS, and more. It serves as a reliable Roblox VPN with low latency and ping rates for optimal gaming performance.

During our Overwatch gaming test, connecting to PIA’s US server yielded an average download speed of 65.78 Mbps and an upload speed of 57.16 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.

While PIA excels due to its vast server network, unblocking capabilities, and top-notch security features, it also offers AES-256 encryption, a zero-logs policy, internet kill switch, and secure DNS.

PIA VPN supports simultaneous connections on 10 devices and is compatible with iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Roku, Firestick, ChromeBook, router, Linux, PS4, and more.

The PIA VPN premium subscription plan costs $3.33 per month and includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Consolidated Comparison of the 5 Best VPNs for Overwatch

Below you can find a briefly summarized comparison of all five VPNs that we tested and have elaborated in the previous section above. The chart below will provide you with a bird’s eye view of all five VPN providers documenting their pricing plans and highlighting all the unique and common features.

Overwatch VPN Ban

Video game publishers like Blizzard have the authority to ban players for cheating in games like Overwatch. Unfortunately, this can result in region-blocking which ultimately also affects honest gamers. Entire regions get prevented from playing Overwatch, impacting fair players. This is a gray area for the fair players, and solutions such as using a VPN to bypass the publishers’ region-blocking and ensure fair play so they may continue enjoying the game.

Have you also been banned in Overwatch? Fortunately, the solution lies in using the top VPN for Overwatch. By allowing users to mask their location, a reliable VPN enables you to play Overwatch from any part of the world, eliminating connection problems and bypassing unnecessary bans.

And just in case you’re wondering, using a VPN while playing Overwatch does not result in a ban according to the game’s Terms of Service. However, it’s crucial to note that if a VPN is being used for cheating or manipulating the game’s mechanics, the individual faces a risk of losing their account. It’s essential to abide by fair play guidelines and use a VPN responsibly while gaming on Overwatch.

Are you facing issues playing Overwatch even after using a VPN provider? High ping, unexpected errors, or perhaps having trouble using the voice chat feature of Overwatch? Then you need to continue reading on to the next section of this blog where you will encounter the problem with a simple solution.

Quick fixes for Common Issues faced while Playing Overwatch with a VPN:

This section of the blog will explore quick and simple fixes for individuals and gamers who face common issues when playing Overwatch while using a VPN provider.

How to Fix the High Ping When Playing Overwatch and Overwatch 2?

By utilizing a VPN, you can address high ping issues in Overwatch and Overwatch 2 by connecting to a nearby game server. This will effectively reduce your ping, leading to smoother gameplay and an improved gaming experience.

High ping occurs when connecting to a game server distant from your physical location. Here is a list of Overwatch server locations:

• US West Server
• US Central Server
• Americas (Brazil) Server
• Europe Server
• Korea Server
• Taiwan Server

Now if you are located in India and connect directly to the US West server for Overwatch, the long physical distance can result in lag and high ping. However, by connecting to a VPN server in the US and playing in the US region, you can significantly reduce ping and experience a smoother gameplay.

Discover effective techniques to address your query on ‘How to reduce Overwatch lag’ and achieve low ping by trying the following methods:

• Shut any apps that can slow down your speed.
• Ensure a stable internet connection.
• Reboot your modem or router. It’ll ensure it is not flooded with data.
• Shift your router to a different spot.
• Pick the correct region on Battle.net.
• Select a different DNS server.
• Reset Winsock.
• Update system drivers and operating system to resolve any compatibility issues.

Just in case you’re wondering, Overwatch, like all online games, requires a stable internet connection. However, issues arise when the internet is slow, resulting in a high ping. The aforementioned solutions aim to address and resolve such problems, ensuring a smoother Overwatch gaming experience.

How to Fix Overwatch 2 Unexpected Server Error Occurred

The primary cause of the “Unexpected Server Error Occurred” error in Overwatch 2 is usually server downtime, overload, or maintenance. Additionally, the use of free VPNs and proxies by players can hinder server connections to the game client. Mistakes in region settings within the Battle.net client can also result in the occurrence of the Unexpected Server Error.

In many cases, resolving issues like the “Unexpected Server Error” in Overwatch 2 can be as simple as using a premium VPN and restarting the game. However, if the problem persists, it’s recommended to relaunch the game and attempt queuing again. Occasionally, standard troubleshooting methods for connection problems may not be effective, so giving it another try can sometimes yield better results.

If the issue still persists, refer to the Blizzard Support page and Overwatch Downdetector.

Fixing The “Time Out Communicating” Error in Overwatch 2?

A VPN is the simplest fix for the “time out communicating” error in Overwatch 2.

In certain cases, routing issues can hinder the internet connection from reaching game servers. Despite normal functioning of both the user’s internet connection and Blizzard’s servers, connectivity problems may arise. Utilizing a VPN can aid users in establishing faster connections to game services, mitigating these challenges.

However, here are fixes gamers can try, to address the “time out communicating with Battle.net service” error in Overwatch 2:

• Restart internet connection.
• Restart Battle.net client.
• Run Battle.net as administrator.
• Use a VPN.
• Contact Blizzard Support.

How Can I Unblock Overwatch Voice Chat Using a VPN?

Follow the five quick steps below and unblock Overwatch Voice Chat using a VPN:

1. Get Overwatch on your preferred device (Xbox One, PlayStation 4, or Windows).
2. Restart your device after installing the game.
3. Select and install a VPN app (we recommend ExpressVPN for its lightning speed).
4. Open the VPN app, choose a server outside of your current region, and click “connect.” (E.g., if you live in UAE, connect to a US server). As soon as it connects, you’ll have a US IP address and can start using the voice chat feature.
5. Play Overwatch, as usual, then while playing, hit “P” to see if voice chat works.

For console users playing Overwatch, the procedure differs slightly. To set it up on a physical or virtual wifi router, you need to:

1. First, set up a VPN application.
2. After the router has been secured, startup your console and connect to the internet as usual.
3. Have fun playing Overwatch using a VPN with all its features!

Overwatch and free VPNs:

Can I Use a Free VPN to Unblock Overwatch?

While it is possible to use free VPNs for Overwatch, we strongly advise against it due to limitations on data and bandwidth usage. Free VPNs often compromise gaming experience and latency speeds.

Moreover, they have a concerning reputation for installing tracking cookies, collecting user data, and selling it to advertising companies. It is recommended to prioritize reliable and paid VPN services for a seamless and secure Overwatch gaming experience.

Extended use of a free VPN can expose you to malware and the risk of device damage or IP leaks. This can lead to an Overwatch VPN ban, jeopardizing your gaming experience.

For this reason, we highly recommend using a premium VPN like ExpressVPN. With robust security measures, it safeguards your connection and guarantees an optimal gaming experience for Overwatch.

Best Free VPN for Overwatch

Finding free VPN services, particularly for gaming, can be challenging. Moreover, the majority of free VPN providers have inadequate privacy policies that can potentially expose users’ identities and online activities to unauthorized parties.

Moreover, uninterrupted gameplay is essential for dedicated gamers who seek unlimited bandwidth to fully enjoy their favorite games.

Most free VPNs for gaming in 2023 typically impose a bandwidth limit. However, one particular VPN stands out as a free VPN provider that differs from the rest in this aspect: ProtonVPN.

ProtonVPN, a VPN provider based in Switzerland, offers both free and paid versions of its service. While the free version has a limited selection of three servers, it provides users with unlimited bandwidth.

Furthermore, it employs state-of-the-art encryption techniques and upholds a privacy policy that users can confidently endorse.

If you are in a region-blocked area, ProtonVPN enables you to play Overwatch online without restrictions. It also supports VoIP services, ensuring uninterrupted voice chatting with your teammates during gameplay.

Based on these features, we highly recommend ProtonVPN as the top free VPN provider for gaming with Overwatch.

FAQ

Conclusion

We have explored the significance of using a VPN while playing Overwatch, focusing on the advantages it brings to the gaming experience. We highlighted how a VPN can bypass geographical restrictions, reduce latency, and enhance privacy and security.

Using a VPN for playing Overwatch is crucial in today's gaming landscape. By utilizing a VPN, players can gain a competitive edge, ensuring a seamless and secure gaming environment.

While we have identified the top five best VPN providers for Overwatch, it's essential to consider your individual requirements and preferences when selecting a VPN. Factors such as server availability in your region, desired speed and performance, and additional features like simultaneous connections or customer support should be taken into account. We are hopeful you explored the detailed reviews and comparison provided in this blog to find the best VPN that fits your specific needs and enhances your Overwatch gaming sessions.

So, go through our detailed guide, choose and start enjoying Overwatch without any hassles using one of our top recommended VPNs for Overwatch in 2023.