VPN Overwatch

Overwatch is one of the most popular video game franchises available today. Millions have played the game and continue to do so. One of the most enticing aspects of the game is its voice chat feature that enables players to communicate. However, this feature relies on Voice over IP (VoIP), which many countries don’t allow. Luckily, such a restriction can be bypassed with a VPN.

A VPN routes your internet connection through a secure third-party server, allowing you to secure your connection and also change your IP address. Depending on the VPN server you connect to, you will be able to get an IP address from a different country. Top-tier VPNs have thousands of server options, allowing users to choose the country they want an IP address from. Therefore, by connecting to a VPN server in a country such as Canada, users who usually aren’t able to use the voice chat features in Overwatch can do so in order to access this feature.

Below, I have reviewed the best VPNs for Overwatch in detail. However, if you’re short on time, here is a quick summary.

Best VPNs for Overwatch:

  1. NordVPN: This is my top choice for Overwatch. It has thousands of servers and fast connection speeds which is important for gaming. It is also a secure platform and can access streaming services without hassle. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee as well, allowing users to try the service risk-free.
  2. Surfshark: A great option for users looking for a VPN for Overwatch on a budget. Users get strong security and fast speeds with this provider.
  3. ExpressVPN: This is one of the faster options available, making it a great choice for gaming.
  4. CyberGhost: This VPN has a large number of servers, with over 9,000 on offer. Includes strong security features.
  5. PrivateVPN: A privacy-focused VPN option that allows users to browse securely, and offers fast connection speeds.
  6. IPVanish: Popular with streamers and suitable for gaming. Its security measures are solid as well.
  7. Private Internet Access: This is a lightweight, secure option with servers in many different locations.
  8. Atlas VPN: This smaller VPN offers fast connection speeds, and strong privacy and security measures.

I tested several VPNs in my quest to find the best providers for Overwatch. Here are some of the factors I looked for:

  • Fast connection speeds, ensuring there is no lag or hesitation when gaming
  • Strong encryption so that users’ identities are protected
  • Several different server options
  • Ease of use
  • Good value for money

You can find out more about the criteria I used in the testing methodology section found further down this article.

Best VPNs for Overwatch

Here are my reviews of the best VPNs for Overwatch.

1. NordVPN

nordvpn

NordVPN is my number-one choice for playing Overwatch. It has blazing-fast connection speeds and 5,200+ servers in about 60 countries. This ensures that players are able to enjoy the game without lag and use the voice chat option.

In addition to being a great provider for Overwatch players, this VPN has also proven itself to have solid security measures in place. These security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, an app-specific kill switch, an automatic ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. These options keep users’ information private. To add to this, NordVPN doesn’t store logs either. This is excellent from a privacy point of view. Moreover, this provider also accepts cryptocurrency payments, which allow for more anonymity than traditional credit card payments. This is because, unlike traditional credit card payments, cryptocurrency payments don’t have your name associated with them.

NordVPN provides apps for several different operating systems, too. Users can download apps for macOS, Linux, Windows, and Android. In addition, routers can be manually configured to work with this service. Users can also connect six devices at the same time and the customer service team is available 24/7 to offer any assistance.

Pros:

  • Fast connection speeds ensure that gamers don’t suffer from lag
  • Strong security measures keep users’ identities protected
  • No logs are stored
  • Apps are available for many different platforms
  • Customer service team is available 24/7

Cons:

  • The desktop app can be a bit slow at times

BEST VPN FOR OVERWATCH:NordVPN is my number-one choice for Overwatch. Its large server network and fast speeds make it easy for users to access the voice chat and to play without lag. It is also a very secure platform. Subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee that allows users to try the service risk-free.

2. Surfshark

Surfshark ESPN

Surfshark is a great budget option for gamers playing Overwatch. In addition to its affordable pricing, it offers fast speeds and servers in around 100 countries. In total, it has over 3,200 servers. Its fast speeds ensure that users are able to play Overwatch and access the game’s voice chat without worrying about lag.

The provider has strong security measures in place such as 256-bit AES encryption, and protection against IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks as well. There is also a traffic scrambling option. This service also stores no logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments that allow for greater anonymity when making payments.

Surfshark apps are available on macOS, Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS. Some routers can even have this service manually installed on them. Users can connect an unlimited number of devices to the service, too.

Pros:

  • Able to unblock many different services
  • Fast connection speeds which is necessary for gaming
  • Strong security measures are in place
  • An unlimited number of connections are supported
  • Cryptocurrency payments are supported which is great for anonymity

Cons:

  • Some servers can be a bit slow

BEST BUDGET OPTION FOR OVERWATCH:Surfshark is affordable but doesn’t skimp on performance. It can handle streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu without buffering and it also allows for an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN home

ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPN options that I reviewed for this article. It offers blazing-fast speeds that result in little to no lag when gaming. In total, ExpressVPN has over 3,000 servers in 94+ countries. It can access geographically restricted services and game features, such as voice chat in Overwatch. It is also easy to use, which is good news for beginners.

The provider has strong security measures in place. One of the most important features is its 256-bit AES encryption. In addition, perfect forward secrecy is offered along with protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks, and there is also a kill switch. In addition, users can access a .onion site which has to be accessed over the anonymous TOR network, which keeps their personal information private. On top of that, they can also pay with cryptocurrency.

ExpressVPN offers apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. It can also be installed on routers. ExpressVPN’s customer support team is available 24/7 as well via the provided live chat. Five simultaneous connections are allowed.

Pros:

  • Fast speeds that allow for smooth gaming
  • Can unblock the voice chat feature of Overwatch successfully
  • .onion site and cryptocurrency payments allow for greater anonymity
  • Strong security measures are in place

Cons:

  • More expensive than some of the other options on this list

FAST OPTION FOR OVERWATCH:ExpressVPN is a solid provider that offers fast streaming speeds and strong privacy and security measures. It is a great option for Overwatch users who need to access the voice chat feature. Every plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost

CyberGhost offers users a very large number of servers. In total, this provider has over 9,700 servers globally in 91+ countries. That is more servers than all of the other providers on this list offer. It also boasts fast connection speeds and can unlock services and game features such as Overwatch’s voice chat feature.

In addition, CyberGhost protects users with its variety of security measures. These include 256-bit AES encryption, protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks, and a kill switch. CyberGhost also accepts cryptocurrency payments, which are more anonymous than traditional credit card payments. Note that this provider also doesn’t store any logs.

CyberGhost has apps for a wide variety of operating systems. These include Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. In addition, users can manually set up this service on some supported routers. Users can also reach the customer support team 24/7 via live chat. Seven simultaneous connections are allowed.

Pros:

  • Large server network gives users lots of location choices
  • Apps are easy to use
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Strong security measures in place

Cons:

  • Blocked in China and the UAE
  • Torrenting and P2P may not work on some servers

LARGE SERVER NETWORK AND SMOOTH STREAMING:CyberGhost's large VPN server network gives users lots of location choices. In addition, its strong security measures keep users safe online. There is also a 45-day money-back guarantee that comes with subscriptions.

5. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN is a small privacy-centric Swedish VPN provider. It has just over 200 servers in around 60 countries. Despite its small server count, it still has servers in many countries.  It also offers very fast connection speeds.

There are strong security measures in place with this provider. These include 256-bit AES encryption and protection against IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks. This service also doesn’t store any logs and it accepts cryptocurrency payments.

PrivateVPN’s apps are available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Users with Linux devices can manually set them up to work with the service. This goes for routers too. While the customer service agents are only available during Swedish working hours, they do offer quality service and can even assist users remotely by helping them to get the service set up on their devices if needed. 10 simultaneous device connections are allowed.

Pros:

  • Fast connection speeds
  • Unblocks many different services
  • No logs are stored
  • Works in China

Cons:

  • Small server network
  • Customer service agents are not available 24/7

PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN SERVICE:PrivateVPN respects user security and privacy. They also offer fast speeds along with these privacy and security measures, which include 256-bit AES encryption. This service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

6. IPVanish

ipvanish

IPVanish has long been popular among the Kodi streaming community. It has over 2,000 servers in 50+ countries and is a good option for gaming due to its fast connection speeds.

It has strong security measures in place that include 256-bit AES encryption, protection against DNS, and IPv6 leaks, and a kill switch. There is also a traffic scrambling option that is included that will mask VPN traffic. This provider doesn’t store any logs.

IPVanish apps are available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. This VPN service can also be manually set up on Linux devices and routers. Its live chat support is available 24/7 and it supports an unlimited number of connections.

Pros:

  • Fast connection speeds
  • Unlimited number of connections allowed
  • No logs are stored
  • Great option for torrenters and Kodi users, as well as gamers

Cons:

  • Doesn’t work in China
  • Some servers don’t work with Netflix

UNLIMITED NUMBER OF CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is a good option for those who require lots of bandwidth for activities such as streaming and gaming. It also has strong security measures in place and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

7. Private Internet Access

private internet access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a lightweight and customizable VPN option that has servers in more than 80 countries. It provides the necessary connection speeds to support a smooth gaming experience as well and can unblock the voice chat features of Overwatch.

PIA also has strong security measures in place such as 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and split tunneling. Plus, this service stores no logs.

Users can download apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. PIA’s customer service team can also be reached 24/7 via live chat and 10 simultaneous connections are allowed.

Pros:

  • Strong security measures are in place
  • Customizable interface and options
  • WireGuard VPN protocol gives users fast and efficient service
  • Can provide secure access to many different services

Cons:

  • Doesn’t work well in China
  • App design is lacking in some areas

LIGHTWEIGHT AND CUSTOMIZABLE:PIA is lightweight and allows for customization. It can also unblock the voice chat feature of Overwatch and offers users solid security and privacy features. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

8. Atlas VPN

atlasvpn homepage

Atlas VPN has over 750 servers in 40+ locations. Its network of servers is fast and secure, and it provides the necessary bandwidth that allows for smooth streaming and gaming. It can also unblock many different services.

This provider’s security measures include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. This service doesn’t store logs either and its MultiHop servers add more security by allowing users to encrypt their connection twice.

Atlas VPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. An unlimited number of connections are supported.

Pros:

  • Can unblock Overwatch’s voice chat and blocked services
  • Fast connection speeds
  • MultiHop servers encrypt data twice

Cons:

  • Doesn’t work in China
  • Customer service could be better

FAST STREAMING SPEEDS AND STRONG ENCRYPTION:Atlas VPN is a fast, secure platform that gives users the opportunity to unblock restricted services and game features. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Testing methodology: How I found the best VPNs for Overwatch

My testing methodology used a strict set of criteria for selecting the top VPNs for Overwatch. This ensures that users are able to access the best VPNs for their needs. Here are a number of factors that I considered when making my list of the best VPNs for Overwatch:

  • Servers: The larger the number of servers the better. This gives users lots of options for bypassing geographical restrictions which may impact gaming features such as the voice chat feature in Overwatch.
  • Unblocking ability: The VPNs that I selected had to be able to bypass restricted features and services such as VoIP. This is restricted in some countries and is the reason why users in some locations can’t use Overwatch’s voice chat feature.
  • Security measures: Every VPN on our list has strong privacy and security measures in place which include 256-bit AES encryption.
  • Operating systems supported: Different users have different devices. This means that support for a wide range of operating systems is needed. I looked for VPNs that supported Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS at the minimum. Linux support was a bonus. However, all VPNs on this list can be manually configured to work with Linux and routers.
  • Value for money: I looked for VPNs that offered fast connection speeds and other features such as a minimum of five simultaneous device connections for a reasonable price. I also looked for a money-back guarantee to ensure that potential users get the best deals possible.

How to use a VPN to access Overwatch’s voice chat feature

Follow these steps to access Overwatch’s voice chat features if you live somewhere where it is restricted:

  1. Buy Overwatch for your preferred device, install the game, and then restart your device.
  2. Choose a VPN provider and sign up for the service. I recommend using NordVPN.
  3. Connect to a VPN server in a location where VoIP isn’t restricted. This could be a country such as Australia, Canada, or the UK. This works for devices such as Windows. If you’re using a console, it’s best to set up a virtual WiFi router on your device or just set up a VPN on your router in the first place.
  4. After connecting, you can open Overwatch and enjoy the voice chat feature.

Best VPNs for Overwatch FAQs

Which countries block Overwatch's voice chat feature?

If the voice chat feature in Overwatch is blocked, this means that VoIP is blocked in the country it is being played in. Some countries place restrictions on VoIP for various reasons. The countries which currently block VoIP include:

Why do I need a VPN to play Overwatch?

Using a VPN to play Overwatch can improve lag and protect users from hackers, malware, and DDoS attacks. It also allows users who live in countries where VoIP is blocked to use the voice chat feature of the game.

Can I use a free VPN to play Overwatch?

Strictly speaking, this is possible but I wouldn't recommend it. Free VPNs tend to have poor security measures and may not even encrypt your connection. They also may not be capable of bypassing VoIP blocks which means that users trying to access this feature could be disappointed. In addition, gaming is a bandwidth-intensive activity. Free VPNs don't have the necessary infrastructure to support these types of activities. Using a free VPN with Overwatch could result in lag and a poor gaming experience.

For the best possible experience, use a reputable, paid-for VPN service.

How do I use a VPN on my Xbox One or Playstation 4?

If you play Overwatch on Xbox or Playstation, you will probably have realized by now that setting up a VPN on one of these devices isn't an easy task.

To use a VPN to enable the voice chat feature in Overwatch when using an Xbox One or Playstation 4, I recommend using a Windows virtual router. This will ensure that you are able to access a VPN while playing Overwatch on your console.

Computers can share hotspots. This means that if you have a virtual router set up on your computer that is connected to a VPN server, then when you share your internet connection with your console it will be protected by the VPN as well. You can also set up a virtual router on macOS and have the option of using a router that supports the installation of VPNs.