There are a number of reasons why gamers may want to seek out the best VPN services. From protecting privacy to speeding up connections and even bypassing regional restrictions and blocks, top-class gaming VPNs offer new possibilities for online gamers.

This article discusses not only the benefits of using a VPN when gaming, but also whether there are any free VPN services available. In addition to introducing some of the VPN services that are available for free, we will also discuss the benefits of paying an additional fee.

Virtual Private Networks - or VPNs - basically bypass your device's Internet connection through one of its many remote servers. Depending on the provider you choose, these servers may be located all over the world.

These connections are encrypted, which basically means that your connection is private and safe from prying eyes and malicious actors. Additionally, your true IP address (and therefore location) can be hidden. This has several advantages, which we will discuss further below.

With cybercrime on the rise, the benefits of increased security cannot be overstated. Having a secure VPN reduces the chances of being a victim of hacking or identity theft, which can only be a good thing.

But what really seems to get a gamer's adrenaline pumping is the advantage of being able to hide one's location. By preventing Internet service providers from monitoring their online activities, they can reduce the likelihood of having their connection speeds limited because of heavy gaming use. In addition, by disguising your location, you can bypass geo-blocking and gain access to games, game areas, and game updates that are not available in your current location.

If you are reading this article, you are probably aware of the benefits of VPNs but don't want to spend much (or any) money on them. The good news is that there are VPNs available for free. The bad news, of course, is that these free options are not as effective as the ones you pay for.

Not only are the free VPNs unlikely to offer the same level of security and privacy as the big, paid-for services, but they are also likely to have limitations in server selection, data, and most importantly, connection speed.

Most gaming devices other than PCs do not support VPNs, requiring users to install a VPN on their router. Some free services do not support this option.

That said, there are a few reliable free options. Our top choice for most free use cases is ProtonVPN. It offers unmatched unlimited data plans, although users are limited to just three servers worldwide. In addition, new registrants get 7 days of free premium service. Realistically, however, after that week, the limited speed of Proton's free plan will be a game-time drag, and only premium subscribers will be able to take advantage of it.

Canadian service Windscribe offers 10 GB of data per month and supports routers. Free users can access servers in 10 locations, including the U.S., U.K., and Canada; upgrading to the Pro plan gives access to 50 more countries, including the rather intriguing fake Antarctica; Windscribe also comes with ad and malware blockers. But again, speeds aren't quite up to scratch, and the 10GB of data drains awfully fast.

Hotspot Shield is another option that offers a basic free plan. However, speeds are limited to 2 Mbps, the data limit is 500 MB per day, and only one virtual location is offered. The $2.99/month Plus plan, on the other hand, offers more than 115 locations, connection speeds up to 1 Gbps, and unlimited data.

Now you know why using a VPN is beneficial for those who engage in online gaming on a regular basis. But if you need further convincing, check out our guide on why you need a VPN for gaming.

The list of free services above should give you a good starting point, and it's never a bad idea to try a few before settling on one. And while the services recommended in our best gaming VPN list require a subscription, services like ExpressVPN and NordVPN also offer free trials and money-back guarantees.