I’ll cut to the chase so that you can play your favorite legend ASAP: the best VPN for Apex Legends is Surfshark.
This VPN ensures you can play Apex from anywhere – including countries where it’s banned, like Cuba and Iran – on any server, with low latency, no lag, and fast speeds.
Surfshark also lets you purchase Apex loot boxes if you’re in a country that bans them, like the Netherlands or Belgium!
And that’s just the beginning.
Keep reading to learn why Surfshark is my top choice, along with reliable alternatives (like NordVPN and ExpressVPN).
Top 3 VPNs for Apex (PC, Console, & Mobile)
NordVPN is one of two VPNs on my list with a Dedicated IP add-on, allowing you to play Apex Legends on a private, permanent IP address for the best performance. On top of that, NordVPN boasts the second-lowest ping and the second-biggest server network.
Surfshark is the ultimate solution for any Apex player, thanks to its stellar performance, robust DDoS protection, and widespread device support – including game consoles via its SmartDNS feature! Plus, with 3,200+ servers, you can unblock Apex Legends anywhere, anytime!
ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN for Apex Legends, thanks to its proprietary protocol, Lightway (UDP). So, expect seamless gameplay with zero lag. Plus, with its SmartDNS feature, you can play Apex on the big screen (or small screen if you opt for Nintendo Switch).
There are dozens of reasons you might want a VPN for Apex Legends – but no matter your reason, you have something in common with everyone else: the need for a reliable VPN.
But what does a reliable VPN include?
First, it needs to consistently unblock Apex worldwide (the entire game AND loot boxes).
It also needs features like fast speeds, a vast server network, and DDoS protection, so you get the best gaming experience.
It doesn’t end there.
Read my complete guide for all the details!
Eager to Play Mad Maggie on an Active Apex Server? One of My Top VPNs Will Help!
I don’t blame you; I’m eager to play the Rebel Warlord too!
That’s why I did this quick review of my top VPNs for Apex Legends.
Take a look:
- Surfshark – VPN for Every Apex Device (Includes DDoS Protection)
- NordVPN – VPN for Apex Legends With Dedicated IP & Big Server Network
- ExpressVPN – Fastest Gaming Speeds + Proprietary Lightway Protocol
- IPVanish – Low Latency, Fast Speeds, & DDoS Protection for Apex Legends
- Private Internet Access – Affordable Dedicated IP for Apex + Giant Server Network
But after testing Maggie’s Warlord’s Ire (and Riot Drill/Wrecking Ball), study my full guide!
There are critical things to know for the best Apex experience.
Detailed Reviews of the Best VPNs for Apex
In the detailed reviews below, you’ll learn why each VPN is an excellent choice for Apex Legends.
You’ll also find latency and speed tests to help you make your final decision.
As Ajay says, “We’ve got a job to do, so shift ya carcass.”
Surfshark – VPN for Every Apex Device (Includes DDoS Protection)
Surfshark is any Apex player’s dream VPN service, thanks to its device compatibility, lightning-fast speeds, and seamless gameplay.
Plus, it has DDoS protection!
But first things first.
The bane of our existence as Apex gamers is that Respawn Entertainment restricts certain countries to specific platforms.
Luckily, Surfshark effectively combats this.
Though EA’s Apex FAQ doesn’t appear up-to-date (for example, I can play on PC in Slovakia), it’s reassuring that you can play the game on any device, regardless of your location.
This is especially essential for players in countries where Apex is banned, like Cuba, Iran, Syria, etc.
Likewise, if you live in a country like the Netherlands that bans loot boxes, Surfshark will help you access them, no sweat.
Or maybe you want to play on a more active server.
Surfshark can help with that, too, thanks to its 3,200+ servers in 65 countries.
Though not as extensive as NordVPN and PIA, there are still plenty of options for the best connection.
Plus, it’s more than ExpressVPN and IPVanish offer!
But my favorite thing about Surfshark is that it supports every Apex device.
So, if you want to play on PC one day and game console the next, this VPN makes it easy.
All in all, Surfshark supports Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and game consoles (including Switch).
Surfshark is also one of the VPNs on my list with a robust SmartDNS feature for PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo (others include ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer, NordVPN’s SmartDNS, and PIA’s SmartDNS) – but it won’t secure your connection, so no DDoS protection.
SmartDNS is also only available as a US DNS address.
Luckily, the US is one of the best countries to access Apex Legends.
And since Surfshark is a fast VPN, your gameplay won’t suffer, even if you’re in a distant country.
Let’s discuss that next.
Surfshark had the lowest ping in my latency tests and the second-fastest speed in my speed tests.
Specifically, my ping was 6ms without any VPN and 10ms with Surfshark.
Keep in mind this is my latency when I’m not online gaming.
My ping while playing Apex was slightly higher – however, thanks to Surfshark’s minimal speed drop (8.79 Mbps), I experienced no lag and an overall seamless Apex session on all my devices (Windows, Android, and PS4).
The only VPN that beat Surfshark’s speeds was ExpressVPN, and barely (8.11 Mbps drop).
Meanwhile, Surfshark still rushed ahead of every VPN for latency.
I recommend using Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol to mimic the seamless gameplay I had during my tests.
Here’s a table for a closer look at the details:
Criteria: | Surfshark’s Results: | Performance: |
---|---|---|
Protocol | WireGuard | N/A |
Speed Drop (Fastest Server) | 8.79 Mbps | Second |
Speed Drop (US Server) | 15.92 Mbps | Third |
Ping | 10ms | First |
Moving on, if you play Apex Legends on PC or mobile, you’ll get the promised DDoS protection – a must-have for Apex streamers and pros.
My only complaint is that Surfshark doesn’t offer a Dedicated IP, something guaranteed to give you the best gaming experience, as it’s a private, permanent IP.
Surfshark does have static servers, but other users share them.
On the bright side, I never noticed any overwhelming need for a Dedicated IP while using Surfshark to play Apex Legends!
Plus, as a last bright side, the VPN is very affordable.
You can also get MAJOR discounts using this link!
Pros
- Offers stable connection, lowest ping, and no lag while playing Apex Legends
- Lightning-fast speeds + WireGuard protocol
- 3,200+ servers in 65 countries for accessing Apex Legends worldwide
- Available for Apex on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch
- DDoS protection
Cons
- No Dedicated IP (and static servers are shared)
NordVPN – VPN for Apex Legends With Dedicated IP & Big Server Network
It was a battle between NordVPN and ExpressVPN for second on my list, but NordVPN was victorious!
As Bloodhound says, “Trust your senses and victory will follow.”
So, why did NordVPN beat ExpressVPN?
Let’s start with its Dedicated IP add-on (something ExpressVPN doesn’t have).
Specifically, a Dedicated IP is a perfect way to enjoy a seamless Apex session with zero lag, low latency, fast speeds, and no other users to bog down the connection.
The downside is that NordVPN’s Dedicated IP is expensive at $70 to $76 per year.
You also can’t opt for a shorter (or longer) term.
Only one other VPN on my list offers this add-on – PIA – and it’s more flexible and affordable.
But there’s a reason NordVPN is second instead of PIA.
Let’s talk performance.
NordVPN tied for second (with IPVanish, preceded by Surfshark) in my latency tests, had the second-lowest speed drop in my US speed tests (preceded by ExpressVPN), and the third-lowest drop in my regular speed tests (preceded by ExpressVPN and Surfshark).
Plus, NordVPN is one of two VPNs on my list with a proprietary protocol: NordLynx.
I recommend using NordLynx for the best Apex experience.
Here’s a table for better inspection:
Criteria: | NordVPN’s Results: | Performance: |
---|---|---|
Protocol | NordLynx | N/A |
Speed Drop (Fastest Server) | 9.34 Mbps | Third |
Speed Drop (US Server) | 15.89 Mbps | Second |
Ping | 11ms | Second (Tie) |
All in all, this proves NordVPN is an impressive challenger for seamless Apex gameplay.
I had no lag no matter the device I used, even amid battle.
Speaking of devices, NordVPN is another VPN compatible with all Apex devices: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
This also includes a SmartDNS feature for console players if you’re not up for a router setup.
And it worked great when I played Apex Legends on my PS4.
However, like Surfshark, it’s only available as a US DNS address.
Additionally, like all SmartDNS features, it doesn’t protect your connection so that you won’t get NordVPN’s robust DDoS protection.
So, if you’re an Apex streamer or pro, I recommend opting for the router setup or playing on your PC or mobile device.
The good news is, with 5,300+ servers in 60 countries, NordVPN will unblock Apex Legends on any device, in any location or country, with zero struggle!
That’s also the second-biggest server network on my list.
This means you can access the full game and its loot boxes, even if you live in Belgium, the Netherlands, Iran, Cuba, etc.
Likewise, if you’re at college and your network admin blocks the game, NordVPN will unblock it!
Finally, NordVPN is also affordable (though not as affordable as Surfshark):
Luckily, you can score major discounts when you use my link!
Pros
- Offers stable connection, low ping, and no lag while playing Apex Legends
- Super-fast speeds + NordLynx protocol
- 5,300+ servers in 60 countries for accessing Apex Legends worldwide
- Available for Apex on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch
- DDoS protection
- Dedicated IP add-on
Cons
- Dedicated IP add-on is expensive
- Slower than some other top VPNs
ExpressVPN – Fastest Gaming Speeds + Proprietary Lightway Protocol
ExpressVPN didn’t win second…but it’s more than deserving of third!
After all, it’s the fastest VPN for Apex Legends.
That certainly counts for something!
In fact, I tested my fastest server and a US server for my speed tests (since the US is a popular place to play Apex).
And guess what?
ExpressVPN had the smallest VPN connection speed drop for both tests!
This was extremely impressive and probably why my gaming sessions were flawless, fast, and lag-free on my Windows PC, Android phone, and PS4.
Nothing like hearing Caustic say, “I feel most alive when rapidly approaching my death” in hi-res (and 4K).
But it’s not all rainbows and Nox Gas Traps.
ExpressVPN actually placed third in my latency tests, with a 12ms ping, putting it behind Surfshark, NordVPN, and IPVanish (the last two tied for second).
Still, this didn’t influence my Apex matches!
Besides, if you use ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, Lightway, you’re certain to have a prideful victory.
I recommend Lightway UDP.
Plus, as NordVPN is the only other VPN with a proprietary protocol, this gives ExpressVPN a unique edge over 3/5 VPNs on my list!
Here’s a look at ExpressVPN’s overall performance:
Criteria: | ExpressVPN’s Results: | Performance: |
---|---|---|
Protocol | Lightway UDP | N/A |
Speed Drop (Fastest Server) | 8.11 Mbps | First |
Speed Drop (US Server) | 14.57 Mbps | First |
Ping | 12ms | Third |
Moving on, ExpressVPN is also excellent at unblocking Apex Legends on every device in any country or location.
This means you can play your favorite legend (Bloodhound, anyone?) in countries like Iran, Syria, and Cuba.
Or, if you live in a country that’s limited to one device, you can bypass that limit and play on all your Apex devices.
Likewise, if you’re dying to open Apex loot boxes from the Netherlands or play on crowded servers, ExpressVPN is the solution.
But there is a catch.
ExpressVPN has the second-smallest server network at 3,000+ high speed servers.
Luckily, it also has the most extensive server coverage in 94 countries, making its server count just a slight disadvantage.
And that’s still more servers than IPVanish!
Plus, ExpressVPN is one of the best choices for playing Apex on any device, thanks to its widespread app support.
You’ll get an app for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even Linux and routers!
This makes it easy to play Apex Legends on console.
But even if your router is incompatible, you can still use ExpressVPN for Apex on your game console via its SmartDNS feature, MediaStreamer.
Don’t let the name fool you.
MediaStreamer is very adept at bypassing region restrictions for online games, too.
Though, like Surfshark and NordVPN, you’ll only get a US DNS address.
(Thank goodness ExpressVPN had the fastest US speeds, right?)
Additionally, you won’t get ExpressVPN’s reliable DDoS protection if you use MediaStreamer.
This isn’t a huge deal for most players, but streamers and pros should consider the router setup or another device instead.
Finally, ExpressVPN’s biggest faults are that it doesn’t have a Dedicated IP add-on, and it’s the most expensive on my list.
Luckily, I have something to help with the former!
Pros
- Offers stable connection, low ping, and no lag while playing Apex Legends
- Fastest VPN for Apex + Lightway protocol
- 3,000+ servers in 94 countries for accessing Apex Legends worldwide
- Available for Apex on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch
- DDoS protection
Cons
- Slightly higher ping than Surfshark, NordVPN, and IPVanish
- No Dedicated IP add-on
- Expensive
IPVanish – Low Latency, Fast Speeds, & DDoS Protection for Apex Legends
IPVanish is a mixed bag – but with enough pros for Apex players to land it in fourth on my list.
For starters, it tied for second with NordVPN in my latency tests, with an 11ms ping.
That’s very impressive and explains why my Apex sessions were seamless and lag-free, allowing me to use Wraith’s Dimensional Rift with zero issues.
And though IPVanish placed fourth in my normal speed tests, its speed drop was just 10.20 Mbps – not bad at all!
This minimal speed drop was likely influenced by IPVanish’s OpenVPN UDP protocol, which offers the best gaming performance.
However, unfortunately, my US server speeds were another story.
IPVanish placed last here, even falling behind PIA, which scored last in 2/3 performance tests.
All in all, IPVanish had a US server speed loss of 18.34 Mbps, while PIA dropped by 16.01 Mbps.
Here’s a table for better comparison:
Criteria: | IPVanish’s Results: | Performance: |
---|---|---|
Protocol | OpenVPN UDP | N/A |
Speed Drop (Fastest Server) | 10.20 Mbps | Fourth |
Speed Drop (US Server) | 18.34 Mbps | Last |
Ping | 11ms | Second (Tie) |
So, that’s the first reason IPVanish is fourth.
It has fast speeds and low latency, but it’s not a great choice if you want to play Apex using US servers.
Luckily, there’s more good news.
First, IPVanish has DDoS protection to keep you safe from dreaded DDoS attacks.
This is good news because it sucks to lag out in the middle of a match due to some punk messing with your connection!
Then you can quote Lifeline and say, “You ain’t that bright if you wanna take me on.”
(Or maybe don’t do that; you might get raised eyebrows.)
Moving on, IPVanish has 2,000+ servers in 50+ countries.
This is the lowest server count and country coverage on my list, BUT it’s still enough to help Apex players with whatever they need – for example, switching to a more active Apex game server.
Or, if you reside in a country like Cuba or Iran and want to play Apex with your overseas friends, IPVanish’s server network will get the job done.
Likewise for drooling over loot boxes in countries that ban them, like Belgium.
That said, it is disappointing to see IPVanish falling behind the others here, especially as the majority of its servers are in the US.
Regrettably, there’s more bad news.
IPVanish is the only VPN on my list without a SmartDNS feature.
So, while it supports every other Apex device – including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android – you’re stuck with a router or hotspot setup if you want to play on your game console.
IPVanish also doesn’t offer a Dedicated IP or any alternative feature, meaning there’s no option to improve your Apex speeds with a permanent, private server.
But I hate to leave it on a bad note, so it’s worth mentioning that IPVanish is one of the most affordable VPNs on my list.
Take a look:
Plus, you can get MAJOR discounts with this exclusive link!
Pros
- Offers stable connection, low ping, and no lag while playing Apex Legends
- Fast speeds
- 2,000+ servers in 50+ countries for accessing Apex Legends worldwide
- Available for Apex on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and game console (via router or hotspot setup)
- DDoS protection
Cons
- Slow US server speeds
- Smallest server network on my list
- No SmartDNS feature
- No Dedicated IP add-on or alternative feature
Private Internet Access – Affordable Dedicated IP for Apex + Giant Server Network
Private Internet Access (PIA) is my “last but not least.”
In fact, I really wanted to put PIA higher, as it has everything an Apex player needs and more.
But there’s a reason I didn’t, and it’s a big one: PIA had the worst performance on my list (for the most part).
That’s not to say you won’t have a satisfactory experience playing Apex Legends.
It wouldn’t be on my list at all if that were the case!
However, this is the only VPN that gave me some kickback while in the thick of battle.
In other words, I experienced just a tiny bit of lag.
This isn’t shocking, considering PIA had a 15ms ping and 12.46 Mbps speed drop.
But it is disappointing.
The only test it didn’t place last in was US server speeds, though it still placed fourth, with a speed drop of 16.01 Mbps.
Here’s a look at PIA’s overall performance:
Criteria: | PIA’s Results: | Performance: |
---|---|---|
Protocol | WireGuard | N/A |
Speed Drop (Fastest Server) | 12.46 Mbps | Last |
Speed Drop (US Server) | 16.01 Mbps | Fourth |
Ping | 15ms | Last |
On the bright side, these results didn’t have an overwhelming impact on my gaming experience.
I still enjoyed Pathfinder grappling everywhere – and when I did lag, it was brief.
Plus, PIA’s WireGuard protocol helped, so use that if you want the best performance.
Moving on, there are several reasons you might prefer the lesser performance over my top four picks.
First, PIA has an affordable Dedicated IP add-on with flexible subscription terms.
Really, PIA’s Dedicated IP has everything that NordVPN’s doesn’t.
There are several terms to choose from, with major savings on the longest term.
But regardless of the term you choose, it’s cheaper than NordVPN’s 1-year Dedicated IP.
So, right away, there’s a potential solution to PIA’s performance, as its Dedicated IP is sure to have better speed and latency than its shared servers.
Maybe you can use the Zipline Gun without lagging at all!
The second thing PIA can boast is its massive server network.
There’s a catch to this one, though.
PIA’s server network is currently getting updated, so there’s no verified number of servers available.
The last known number is 30,000+.
Though, PIA’s website clearly states it has servers in 84 countries.
This is reassuring, as it means you can unblock Apex Legends worldwide, whether the full game or its loot boxes.
Plus, you have plenty of countries to choose from if you want a more active server.
That’s not all.
PIA also has DDoS protection and support for all Apex devices, including PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, via its SmartDNS feature (or router setup).
PIA’s SmartDNS feature is actually the most flexible on this list.
Instead of being limited to the US, you can choose from several countries: the US, the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and Japan.
Hopefully, that’s widespread enough to get a nearby connection.
On top of that, PIA lets you choose what device you’re using.
You won’t find Nintendo Switch (choose “Other Devices” for that), but there is PlayStation and Xbox.
But, of course, there’s a catch.
PIA’s SmartDNS feature doesn’t always work at unblocking content, including Apex Legends (as a whole) and its loot boxes.
That said, at the time of writing, I had only a few issues.
The biggest was performance (occasional lag and higher ping), though the US DNS address didn’t let me join US Apex Legends game servers.
So, playing Apex on your game console is mostly easy!
Lastly, to end on a good note, PIA is another VPN with affordable price plans.
Don’t forget to grab my super PIA discount, though!
Pros
- Offers stable connection, decent ping, and minimal lag while playing Apex Legends
- Decent speeds + WireGuard protocol
- 30,000+ servers in 84 countries for accessing Apex Legends worldwid
- Available for Apex on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and game console (SmartDNS feature)
- DDoS protection
- Affordable Dedicated IP add-on
Cons
- Worse performance than top four VPNs, resulting in some lag and higher ping
- SmartDNS feature sometimes has issues (performance and unblocking)
How to Find the Best VPN for Apex Legends?
Apex Legends is popular worldwide, but not every country has immediate access.
Some countries, like the Netherlands and Belgium, are blocked from loot boxes.
Others, like Iran and Cuba, are blocked from the game entirely.
Thus, it’s essential to find a VPN that reliably unblocks it.
And that’s just the beginning.
If you’re struggling with your final decision or want to shop around before committing, this section is for you.
Don’t skip it!
You Can Play Apex on PC, Mobile, or Console With the Best VPN Using This Checklist
First, let’s look at my in-depth checklist full of essential features that any top VPN for Apex Legends will have.
I recommend referring to it as you’re shopping!
Seamless Gameplay
Seamless gameplay is a given.
This means top performance – super-fast speeds, low latency (ping, packet loss, etc.), and minimal to no lag while playing Apex.
The best way to ensure your VPN meets these criteria is to test it.
First, ensure it offers a money-back guarantee.
If it doesn’t, find a new one.
Then, purchase a subscription and test it with Apex Legends.
Try servers in numerous countries, several protocols (especially WireGuard and proprietary protocols), etc., on all your Apex devices.
If it has a SmartDNS feature for game consoles, try that too.
It’s also worth doing performance tests.
So, test your VPN’s speed and latency via normal speed tests and via Apex Legend’s in-game Performance Display.
In the end, if you’re unsatisfied, ask for a refund.
Just ensure you finish testing it before the refund policy expires!
Alternatively, grab one of my recommended VPNs for Apex Legends right now!
Here’s a table comparing their performance results:
VPN Provider | Speed Loss | Speed Loss (US Server) | Ping |
---|---|---|---|
Surkshark | 8.79 Mbps | 15.92 Mbps | 10ms |
NordVPN | 9.34 Mbps | 15.89 Mbps | 11ms |
ExpressVPN | 8.11 Mbps | 14.57 Mbps | 12ms |
IPVanish | 10.20 Mbps | 18.34 Mbps | 11ms |
PIA | 12.46 Mbps | 16.01 Mbps | 15ms |
Winner: | ExpressVPN | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
Big Server Network in Many Countries
Next, you need a VPN with a big server network in many countries.
There are several reasons for this, but the three most prominent are:
- If Apex Legends is banned in your country, your VPN needs plenty of servers in many countries to reliably unblock it without sacrificing a stable connection.
- Likewise, if a component of Apex Legends is blocked in your country, like loot boxes, a big server network will help you bypass those restrictions.
- Finally, if the Apex server(s) you play on are dead, a VPN with many servers in many countries will let you find a new, active server to switch to.
And then, it all comes down to performance.
Many servers in many countries decrease the probability of network overload, so you’re more likely to have better speeds and lower latency.
Security Features
There aren’t many security features you absolutely need as a gamer.
The basics, like a kill switch and 256-bit AES encryption, are great examples of “nice-to-haves.”
Though, if you live in a country that limits or blocks Apex Legends, those features become essential.
But there is one security feature essential to every Apex player, regardless of intention or location: DDoS protection.
Now, the average Apex player might not experience DDoS attacks.
But if you’re a streamer or pro player, you’re likely very experienced with this annoying threat.
Luckily, DDoS protection thwarts it in its tracks.
So, ensure your VPN offers it, even if you’re not a streamer or pro player.
You can never be too careful!
Compatible With Apex Devices
Apex Legends is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
Most VPNs are compatible with PC and smartphones.
However, finding VPNs that support game consoles is another story.
And even then, you’re usually stuck with a router and/or hotspot setup.
That’s not a deal-breaker, but it is inconvenient.
However, some VPNs offer something more: a SmartDNS feature.
This lets you unblock Apex Legends on your game console via switching your DNS address.
It’s easy and, usually, effective.
So, if you play Apex on game console, consider looking for VPNs with this feature.
BONUS: Dedicated IP
A bonus feature worth looking for is a Dedicated IP add-on.
This is a private, permanent IP just for you that can increase your Apex Legends performance.
Most of the time, this is a “nice-to-have.”
But for some VPNs, like PIA, it’s the difference between minimal and no lag.
Just remember, Dedicated IP add-ons cost extra!
Price
Finally, it’s important to compare the VPNs, their features, price plans, and performance test results.
Ensure you’re getting the best deal – and not just financially.
One VPN might be a bit costlier but with top-tier performance.
The final decision is in your hands.
Will a Free VPN Work With Apex Legends?
While you might find a free VPN that works with Apex Legends, I don’t recommend it.
You’re likely to experience lackluster speeds, high latency, and a lot of lag.
On top of that, the probability of a free virtual private network unblocking Apex (the full game or loot boxes) is unlikely.
Plus, most free VPNs have limited bandwidth and a limited number of servers and countries.
Instead, stick to a premium VPN like Surfshark.
It’s super affordable and offers excellent Apex performance.
Remember, you can get this exclusive discount to save even more!
How to Use a VPN for Apex Legends on PC & Mobile?
If you play Apex on PC or mobile, you’re in luck, as the setup is almost the same!
Just follow these instructions:
- Choose one of my recommended VPNs for Apex Legends (or a VPN you found after thorough research) and purchase a subscription.
- Download and install the VPN app on your Apex device(s).
- Open the VPN app and sign in to your account.
- Click the Connect button for the fastest server near you. Or, if you need a server from a specific country, like the US, select your preferred location from the server list.
- Open your browser and check for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks.
- Launch Apex Legends (or open the app) and enjoy unlimited access!
Apex Legends Lagging With a VPN? (Troubleshooting)
If you’re dealing with lag while playing Apex with a VPN, there are numerous potential causes and possible solutions.
I’ll cover the most likely ones below:
- Your Apex Legends VPN isn’t up to the task. If you choose a VPN with slow server speeds, you’re guaranteed to lag while playing Apex Legends or any other videogame.
- Solution: choose a different virtual private network and test its speeds to ensure it’s fast enough for Apex Legends. I recommend revisiting my checklist above.
- Your VPN isn’t optimized for Apex. If you purchased your VPN and left it at that, there’s a chance it’s not optimized for intense gaming.
- Solution: change your VPN settings. Specifically, see what protocol is set to default. OpenVPN TCP is slower than UDP. WireGuard is faster than both. If your VPN has a proprietary protocol, there’s a chance that’s even faster. Test them all and choose the best. Additionally, ensure no heavy security features are enabled, like a double VPN or obfuscation.
- You’re not using the best VPN server. Depending on your location, your VPN server’s location, and your Apex server’s location, you might not be using a VPN server with the best performance.
- Solution: try several VPN servers. First, try your nearest server. Then, try a server closest to your Apex server. Try multiple locations if possible. Choose the best server to play with.
- Your ISP is throttling your bandwidth when you play Apex Legends. Your ISP can see what you do online and might purposely limit your bandwidth when doing bandwidth-intensive activities.
- Solution: find a more reliable VPN. If you have a reliable VPN with fast speeds, this won’t happen, as your ISP can’t see your internet activities and thus can’t slow your connection when playing Apex Legends.
- Your base internet speed isn’t fast enough for Apex. If your speeds are lower than 25 Mbps, you’re likely to have a rough time.
- Solution: purchase a faster internet package or find a new internet service provider. Unfortunately, there’s nothing else you can do to solve this issue.
Apex VPN Error?
It’s not unheard for Apex Legends updates to cause game errors – for example, an infinite black screen or the “not running anti-cheat” message.
Luckily, this is just a temporary problem most of the time, and your VPN will counter Apex’s update with its own update.
However, there are things you can do in the meantime to try and solve the issue:
- Many Reddit users report that switching their VPN protocol to OpenVPN UDP It’s worth trying other protocols, as well.
- Check your VPN for any updates.
- Restart your VPN and device.
- Validate your Apex Legends files to ensure it’s not a problem with the game itself.
- Check your internet connection.
If none of these do the trick, contact your VPN’s support team.
Apex VPN Bot Lobbies?
If you’re using an unreliable VPN, there’s a chance Apex throws you into bot lobbies.
These instances can be frustrating, but the solution is the same as above: replace your current VPN with a more reliable one.
If Apex can’t identify that you’re using a VPN, it’s less likely to plague you with merciless bots.
That said, some players report getting bot lobbies when using a mobile connection.
If that’s the case, a reliable VPN will still solve the problem.
FAQ
Will My VPN Work With Apex Mobile?
If your VPN has iOS and/or Android support, it will work with Apex Legends Mobile.
Luckily, most VPNs support smartphones.
However, it’s more difficult to find VPNs that offer stellar performance on mobile.
You also need a VPN for Apex Mobile that unblocks the game worldwide.
I recommend Surfshark, as it offers flawless gameplay, user-friendly iOS and Android apps, and unlimited access to Apex Legends.
Will a VPN for Apex Get Me Banned?
EA Support directly answered this question with, “you would not be banned for simply using a VPN.”
But there’s an underlying message here.
EA won’t ban you for using a VPN on Apex if you don’t violate Terms of Service – and using a VPN to unblock Apex content in a restricted country is a prime example of violating ToS.
For this reason, you need a VPN that guarantees your privacy while gaming, like Surfshark.
Will a VPN for Apex Legends Improve Ping?
There are a couple of ways a VPN can improve your ping while playing Apex Legends.
First, if your ISP throttles your bandwidth, a reliable VPN will combat this by hiding your activities, so your ISP doesn’t know you’re gaming in the first place.
Additionally, if you’re playing Apex Legends on a distant server, a VPN will let you connect to a nearer server for better ping and overall performance.
Can I Use a VPN to Switch Apex Servers?
If you want to join your overseas friends on their Apex Legends server, a VPN will let you do so.
Just ensure you find a reliable option with many servers in many countries, so you can find a VPN server that’s close to the Apex server for the best VPN connection.
And don’t forget to switch your Apex data center region!
Can I Get Apex Coins With a VPN?
If you live in a country like the Netherlands or Belgium that blocks access to Apex loot boxes (or Apex coins), a reliable VPN will bypass this block for unlimited access to the full game – loot boxes and all.
However, ensure your VPN is a reliable option with the best privacy and security features, as this is a direct violation of EA’s Terms of Service and can otherwise result in a ban.
How Do I Use NordVPN With Apex Legends?
Using NordVPN with Apex Legends is as easy as purchasing a NordVPN subscription, downloading the app on your Apex device, and connecting to your preferred NordVPN server.
After, simply open Apex Legends and enjoy unlimited access!
Conclusion
By now, you’re all set to play Apex Legends in any country without sacrificing performance!
I still recommend Surfshark as the best VPN for Apex, as it has super-fast speeds, low latency, and no lag.
Plus, you’ll get a reliable SmartDNS feature if you play on game console!
Ready to take the plunge? Grab my Surfshark discount, so you can start playing Apex Legends right now!