You know what’s worse than losing the last duel in the top 3? Getting kicked out of a game due to server overload, accidental disconnection or a banned IP range. On PC, most Fortnite players solve this in minutes with a VPN. But what if you’re playing on a console?
PS5, Xbox Series X|S or even Nintendo Switch all have one thing in common: they can’t run VPNs directly. And this is where a topic that’s not talked about much among console gamers, but which can make a huge difference to the gaming experience, comes into play – the use of VPNs on consoles.
Why use a VPN on the console?
The consoles themselves do not support VPNs. But you can use a Wi-Fi router or a shared connection from your computer, and it’s much easier than it sounds. And the benefits? Those are clear:
- Lower ping and more stable connections – especially if your ISP is throttling gaming traffic.
- Bypassing geo-blocks – some tournaments, matchmaking or in-game content may be regionally restricted.
- Advance game access – VPNs allow you to connect through a zone where the game is available earlier.
- Protection against DDoS attacks – especially useful in competitive matches and tournaments.
- Play safely even on public Wi-Fi – ideal for gamers who play away from home.
How does VPN work on consoles?
Consoles like PS5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch can’t run the VPN app directly. But there are 3 proven ways to use a VPN connection:
1. 🔌 VPN via router
The most reliable solution. You install a VPN directly on your home Wi-Fi router. The advantage? Once the router is connected to the VPN, all devices – including consoles – automatically run over the secure connection.
Benefits:
- Works nonstop
- Protects all devices on the network
- Ideal for the whole household
Disadvantages:
- You need a router that supports VPN (e.g. ASUS, TP-Link, Netgear)
2. 💻 VPN over a shared PC or Mac connection
If you don’t want to modify the router, you can connect the console to a computer (e.g. via Ethernet or Wi-Fi) and share the Internet connection that is already running over the VPN.
Benefits:
- Works on a regular router
- Easier to set up than a router
Disadvantages:
- The computer must be running when you play
- Slightly more complicated setup (but manageable)
3. 📱 VPN over mobile hotspot
Short-term solution – if you have a phone with a VPN, you can create a hotspot through it and connect to the console.
Benefits:
- Super fast setup
- Ideal on the go
Disadvantages:
- It’s not long-term stable
- Mobile data limitations and higher latency
Best VPN for Fortnite on PS5, Xbox and Switch
Based on testing, latency, router compatibility, and app clarity, I’ve selected the top 5 VPNs I recommend for console Fortnite players:
1. Surfshark VPN – Great value for money
Surfshark will surprise you with price, but also with performance. Unlimited devices, clear instructions for connecting via router or PC, and quality servers suitable for Fortnite.
✅ Benefits:
- Unlimited connections
- Very good speed
- Low price
❌ Disadvantages:
- Occasional performance variability on remote servers
2. NordVPN – Strong security and compatibility
NordVPN is ideal for those who want top-notch security in addition to performance. It supports routers, has a Meshnet feature (a virtual LAN for playing with friends) and offers detailed tutorials for console-based setup.
✅ Benefits:
- Highly secure connection
- Proven stability on routers
- Free SmartDNS with every account
❌ Disadvantages:
- Slightly more complicated to set up than ExpressVPN
3. ExpressVPN – Best for consoles and routers
ExpressVPN offers its own router app and supports most router brands, so setup is easier than competitors. It offers extremely fast servers, SmartDNS functionality (for unblocking content even without a full VPN), and clear instructions for each console.
✅ Benefits:
- Applications for the router
- 108 countries, 3000+ servers
- Speed and low ping
- It also works via SmartDNS
❌ Disadvantages:
- Higher price
4. CyberGhost VPN – Best for quick setup
CyberGhost is ideal for those who don’t want to deal with complicated setups and want “something that works”. It offers servers optimised for gaming and support for SmartDNS – ideal for consoles that don’t natively support VPNs.
✅ Benefits:
- Gaming servers optimised for speed
- SmartDNS for PS5, Xbox and Switch
- 45-day money back guarantee
❌ Disadvantages:
- A less customisable environment for advanced users
5. Private Internet Access (PIA) – The largest network of servers
PIA is known for its huge network – over 10,000 servers in 100+ countries, giving you plenty of options to find the best one for Fortnite. It supports connectivity via routers and has detailed tutorials for both Windows and Mac sharing.
✅ Benefits:
- Excellent price for performance
- Custom ad blocker (MACE)
- Kill Switch and split tunneling
❌ Disadvantages:
- Less suitable for complete beginners
🔍 Recommended servers for Fortnite matchmaking
Whether you’re playing on PS5, Xbox or Switch, the key to a smooth experience is the right server. Below are the sites that had the lowest ping and most stable connections during testing:
| Region | Recommended VPN Servers |
|---|---|
| Europe | Frankfurt (DE), Paris (FR), Amsterdam (NL) |
| USA | Virginia, Ohio, Dallas, Los Angeles |
| Asia | Tokyo, Singapore, Seoul |
| Latin America | São Paulo (BR), Mexico City (MX) |
| Australia | Sydney, Melbourne |
If you are not satisfied with the results, try another server in the same region – sometimes even a “neighboring” city will make a big difference in ping.
The difference between using a VPN on a console and on a PC
On a PC, just download the app, log in and click “connect“. But consoles like PS5, Xbox and Switch don’t have a VPN client. That’s why we have to go about it a little differently. There are three workable ways:
| Method | Description | For whom it is suitable |
|---|---|---|
| VPN via router | Install a VPN on your home Wi-Fi network to protect your console | The best choice for regular players |
| VPN via PC/Mac | You share a VPN connection from your computer over Ethernet or Wi-Fi | For those who do not want to modify the router |
| SmartDNS or proxy | DNS redirection to unblock content (without encryption) | For players without the need for DDoS protection |
🧩 Summary: Is a VPN for Fortnite on console worth it?
Absolutely yes – a VPN on a console may be a little more difficult to set up than on a PC, but the benefits are very real. You get:
- lower ping,
- higher stability,
- the ability to bypass geo-blocks,
- and peace of mind that no one will DDoS you out of your winnings.
For PS5 gamers, I recommend ExpressVPN or NordVPN for easy router setup and SmartDNS support. For those who play on Switch or want a low-cost solution, Surfshark or CyberGhost are ideal.
