Best VPNs for Pokémon Go: Play From Anywhere

At a Glance

Pokémon Go is an incredibly popular mobile game that allows players to “catch” as many Pokémon as they can by going to physical locations around the globe to corral the Pokémon. While this is a fun pastime, users in remote locations and small towns are faced with a limited number of Pokémon Go “gyms” and “PokéStops” when compared to players who are located in high-population areas, such as large cities.

Luckily, by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), a GPS spoofing app (more about that later), and a bit of manual configuration, you can catch Pokémon located in other regions of the world without needing to get off of your PokéCouch.

How Can a VPN Help Me “Catch ‘Em All?”

A VPN allows you to temporarily gain a new IP address for your mobile device, making it appear as if you are located in another region of the globe.

This not only enables access to Pokémon you might never have otherwise had the opportunity to catch, but it also opens up access to other types of geo-blocked content, such as streaming video from geo-controlled streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer.

As an added bonus, a VPN also encrypts your internet connection, meaning it encases your connection in a tunnel of encrypted protection. This works much like a highway tunnel in the real world, meaning that even though you know there is traffic passing through the tunnel, you can’t see the traffic, hiding your online activities from prying eyes.

In this article, I’ll cover the top six VPNs that offer the best way to gain access to more Pokémon Go gyms and PokéStops. I’ll also tell you why you may also need to use a GPS spoofing app to allow for reliable access to your favorite Pokélocations. I’ll also share how well each VPN performs in various feature categories.

Best VPNs for Pokémon Go

The following six top VPN providers offer the most reliable access to Pokémon Go gyms and PokéStops, as well as other types of geo-blocked content around the globe. Here’s a short summary.

Best VPNs for Pokémon Go:

1. NordVPN: Top VPN for Pokémon Go. NordVPN provides reliable apps for Android and iOS, as well as most other popular device platforms. The provider offers fast connections from a comprehensive global server network. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best VPN for budget-minded players. This provider offers apps for both Pokémon Go-compatible mobile platforms, as well as most other platforms. Its fast-growing global server network offers fast, reliable access to geo-blocked content around the globe.
3. ExpressVPN: Premium Pokémon Go VPN. With lightning-fast connection speeds and reliable apps for the Android and iOS platforms (along with other devices), ExpressVPN is a somewhat expensive, yet flexible, VPN provider.
4. CyberGhost: Best bet for rookie VPN users. This easy-to-use VPN is an excellent option for first-time VPN users who are looking to catch more Pokémon. The provider’s wide-ranging global server network delivers access to content around the globe.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA): Reliable VPN protection for Pokémon Go fans. PIA provides top-notch online security and privacy protection, while delivering reliable access to geo-controlled content (and Pokémon) around much of the globe.
6. PrivateVPN: Pikachu of VPN providers. Like the tiny but powerful Pokémon, this provider’s global server network is quite small. However, it has the power to provide well-protected access to geo-fenced content in the countries where it has servers.

I ranked the top six VPNs for Pokémon Go according to the following criteria:

• Connection speeds
• Reliable location spoofing
• Global server network
• Online security
• Privacy protection
• App support

Here’s my list of the top six VPNs for Pokémon Go.

1. NordVPN

May 2025

NordVPN ranks at the top of this list thanks to its reliable access to geo-blocked content like what Pokémon Go offers.

While this provider’s download speeds aren’t THE fastest on this list, it ranks right up there. In addition to being great for Pokémon Go, the provider’s connection speeds are perfect for other types of online gaming, streaming video, and other popular online pastimes. No data caps or bandwidth limitations are imposed here.

Global server coverage is also a high point with NordVPN, as the provider has over 5,700 servers located in 60+ countries worldwide. This means you can gain reliable access to Pokémon around the globe. It also provides reliable access to geo-blocked video and other content.

NordVPN protects your online security well thanks to the provider’s military-level-encrypted and kill switch-protected connections. Obfuscated servers keep your VPN usage undercover by impersonating normal browser traffic. The provider’s CyberSec feature helps block ads, malware, and other online hazards.

A strict no-logs policy and a Bitcoin subscription payment option mean users can stay totally incognito. NordVPN’s owned-and-operated server model keeps outside contractors away from your personal data. It also runs all of its servers solely from RAM, which ensures that all data is completely wiped from a server whenever it is shut down, rebooted, or simply unplugged from the wall.

NordVPN provides apps for the Pokémon Go-compatible platforms Android and iOS, as well as the Windows, macOS (with native M1/M2 Mac support), Android TV, Linux, and Fire TV platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available, as is compatibility with numerous router makes and models.

Up to six devices can connect simultaneously using a single username.

BEST VPN FOR POKéMON GO:NordVPN is an excellent option for Pokémon Go trappers in search of reliable access to gyms and PokéStops. Fast, reliable connections and a large global server network make this provider a great option for Pokémon Go. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark is an excellent choice for Pokémon Go players on a tight budget. The provider offers reliable VPN service at a bargain price.

Surfshark’s connection speeds are easily up to the requirements of an exciting Pokémon Go hunt. It also easily handles HD streaming, other types of online gaming, and more. No data caps to worry about here, and there’s unlimited bandwidth.

The provider has a fast-growing global server network. The provider’s 3,200+ servers are well-distributed among 100+ countries, providing reliable access to Pokémon Go and other types of geo-blocked content around the globe.

Surfshark offers a combination of banking-grade AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak prevention, along with ad-blocking, malware, tracking, and phishing protection to protect your online activities. A MultiHop option uses a duo of VPN servers to double up on your protection and anonymity.

No server logs are to be found here, and the provider accepts multiple forms of cryptocurrency as payment. The provider now runs all of its servers 100% from RAM, with no data ever being written to a physical hard drive or SSD, meaning all data is totally wiped when a Surfshark server is restarted or turned off.

Surfshark not only has the two Pokémon Go platforms covered (Android and iOS), but it also supports Amazon Fire TV, macOS (with Apple Silicon support), Windows, and Linux platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available, and the provider is compatible with numerous router makes and models.

Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections allowance means all of the Pokémon hunters in your family can use the VPN at once.

PERFECT FOR MULTIPLE POKéMON GO PLAYERS:Surfshark can provide online protection for a large group of Pokémon hunters at a low, low price. Reliable access to Pokémon Go, top-notch online security and privacy, and fast connection speeds will have budget-minded Pokémon Go players flicking to get protection. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is an admittedly expensive VPN provider, but for many, the high price of admission will be well worth it.

This provider offered the fastest connection speeds of any VPN in my most recent round of connection speed testing. The provider handles Pokémon Go, streaming various formats of video, and many other online activities. The provider never imposes a data cap or any bandwidth limitations on your connections.

Thanks to their over 3,000 servers located in 94+ countries around the globe, the service ensures that Pokémon around the world have nowhere to hide.

ExpressVPN protects all of your online activities from prying eyes by using military-level AES 256-bit encryption, automatic kill switch protection, a split tunneling option, and more.

The provider keeps no logs whatsoever of your activities and accepts Bitcoin as a payment option. Plus, a proprietary “TrustedServer” feature writes all data to volatile RAM, never writing any data to a physical hard drive. This ensures that all data will be erased from the server each time it is rebooted.

ExpressVPN offers native app support for the iOS and Android device platforms, as well as macOS (M1/M2 Mac support), Windows, Linux, Chromebook, Blackberry, and Amazon Fire TV device platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are available, as is extensive router compatibility.

Up to five devices can connect at once using a single account.

RELIABLE VPN FOR POKéMON GO:ExpressVPN is a reliable (if somewhat expensive) choice for enhancing your Pokémon Go hunting expeditions. Fast connections, excellent global server coverage, and top-notch security and privacy protections make this an attractive option for users who don’t mind paying a little extra. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is an excellent VPN option for mobile users with little experience using a VPN on their iOS or Android device.

CyberGhost’s connection speeds aren’t tops on this list, but they can certainly handle Pokémon Go action, HD video streaming, and most other online activities. No bandwidth limitations or data caps to spoil the fun.

With over 9,000 VPN servers in 90+ countries, CyberGhost provides more than enough global coverage to satisfy your Pokémon Go-hunting needs.

The VPN provider keeps your online travels undercover with the use of government-grade AES 256-bit encryption and automatic kill switch protection. Ad and malware blocking is also available, as is the ability to force websites to serve up secure versions of their web pages.

CyberGhost’s privacy protections include a no-logs policy and a Bitcoin private payment option.

In addition to iOS and Android protection, the provider offers protection for macOS, Windows, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV platforms. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available. All of CyberGhost’s apps are easy to use, making them an excellent protective option for first-time VPN users.

If the provider’s seven concurrent connections allowance isn’t sufficient, users can make use of the service’s compatibility with a large number of WiFi routers.

BEST FOR ROOKIE VPN USERS:CyberGhost is an excellent option for first-time VPN users who are searching for a simple, yet reliable way to enhance their Pokémon Go hunting expeditions. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

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5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) delivers reliable, well-protected connections for all of your Pokémon Go hunting expeditions.

PIA’s global server network includes 3,300+ servers based in close to 85 countries.

PIA’s protective banking-grade encrypted tunnel keeps your online activities undercover, while also providing IP/DNS leak prevention, and kill switch protection. Ad, tracker, malware, and dangerous website blocking are also available.

The provider saves no logs whatsoever recording its users’ online travels while they’re connected to its servers. Bitcoin is a subscription payment option, providing protection for your payment privacy. (A disposable email address lends additional privacy.)

PIA offers native app support for Android and iOS, meaning your Pokémon Go hunting needs are taken care of. The provider also offers apps for Android TV, macOS, Windows, and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are also available. The provider also works with select routers. An unlimited number of devices can be simultaneously connected to its servers.

The provider’s connections are the second-slowest on this list. That said, the provider delivers enough bandwidth for streaming, hunting Pokémon (Pokémen? Pokémons? Poképersons?), and other online pastimes. Plus, the provider never spoils the hunt by imposing daily or monthly data caps or bandwidth throttling.

PIA’s customer support offerings include live support agent chat, a trouble ticket system, and a support library.

RELIABLE POKéMON GO HUNTING VPN PROTECTION:Private Internet Access provides reliable access to content around most of the globe, including your favorite Pokémon Go hunting grounds. Comprehensive online security and privacy protection are provided for most popular device platforms. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN provides reliable access to Pokémon Go hunting grounds, despite its small global server network.

This provider admittedly has the smallest global server network on this list (200+ servers, spread out among 60+ countries). However, it does a good job of providing reliable access to content located in the countries where it has based its servers.

In addition to being the smallest network, PrivateVPN’s connection speeds are also the slowest on this list. They do provide enough bandwidth for streaming, gaming, and other popular online activities.

All PrivateVPN-provided connections are protected with banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and more. Its proprietary “Stealth VPN” feature keeps your VPN use hidden by disguising it as normal browser traffic.

PrivateVPN follows a strict no-server logs policy, so there are no records of your online activities while you’re connected to PrivateVPN’s servers. A handy cryptocurrency payment option helps keep your subscription information private.

App support is limited to Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows device platforms. Browser extensions are not available. PrivateVPN can be set up manually on Linux devices and also select routers.

Users can connect up to 10 simultaneous connections to PrivateVPN servers.

PrivateVPN’s customer support offers a live agent chat option, a support request form, and an FAQ support section.

SMALL BUT POWERFUL VPN:PrivateVPN’s admittedly small server network provides reliable access to content in the countries it serves. The provider keeps your online antics undercover, while its “Stealth VPN” protection disguises your VPN traffic. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

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Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Pokémon Go

Pokémon Go players can use a VPN to virtually transport themselves to their favorite Pokémon gyms. However, they also face the usual online dangers and restrictions faced by other internet users. There are several features that should be considered before deciding on a VPN for Pokémon Go:

• Global server network: A VPN provider with a large global server network provides better access to Pokémon Go gyms and other geo-fenced content in countries around the globe. Plus, the more servers a VPN has stationed in a single country, helps prevent any single server from being overloaded with too many connections.
• Connection speeds: No matter what your favorite online pastime is, a faster connection is your friend. The VPNs on my list perform well in my connection speed tests.
• Value: To determine a VPN’s true value, compare a VPN provider’s asking price to its features. The VPNs on my list offer excellent value.
• Ease of use: A VPN’s apps should be intuitive to use, and should be available for popular device platforms. The VPNs I included on my list offer easy-to-use apps.
• Security and privacy: Any VPN worth its salt protects your internet connection with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection. A strict no-logs policy is also a must. The providers on my lists provide top-notch online security and privacy protection.
• Streaming: Streaming is one of the most popular online pastimes today. Most of the VPNs on this list offer reliable access to multiple streaming sites, including Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other popular streamers.

My research doesn’t end here. This is just a portion of my VPN testing methodology. This data-driven approach helps me to better understand these VPNs and their services, allowing me to recommend VPNs that are a good fit for my readers’ online needs.

How to Use a VPN to Enhance Pokémon Go

If you’re a Pokémon Go player who is looking to both enhance and protect your Pokémon Go adventures, do the following:

1. Subscribe to a Virtual Private Network.
2. Download and install the VPN’s app on your Android or iOS devices.
3. Log into the VPN.
4. Select a VPN server located where you want to connect to.
5. Fire up a GPS spoofing app if needed.
6. Begin the hunt!

Why Do I Need a GPS Spoofing App?

Unfortunately, Pokémon Go doesn’t rely entirely on your IP address to determine your geographic location. It also uses your iPhone or Android smartphone’s GPS radio to help determine your location.

On your Android device, you’ll need to go through a number of steps to spoof your geographical device – too many to list in this space. Luckily, there is an excellent Pokémon Go spoofing subreddit that includes up-to-date information about geo spoofing on your Android (and iOS) device.

Spoofing your location on your iOS device may require you to jailbreak your device, and possibly download or purchase a modded version of Pokémon Go. Using a modded app can result in being banned from the game, so tread carefully.

Is a Free VPN a Good Option for Pokémon Go?

It’s not likely that a free VPN will give you any Pokémon Go joy.

For one, developer Niantic has put considerable effort into tracking IP addresses provided by VPN providers. And, much like streaming services, they block those IP addresses.

A free VPN simply will not have the resources to keep up with this game of IP address whack-a-mole, meaning you’ll likely be blocked.

In addition, many free VPN providers do not offer support for Android and iOS device platforms. Even if you find a free VPN that works with Pokémon Go and your mobile device, you’ll have to deal with connection slowdowns and daily or monthly data caps.

“Free” VPNs also have hidden costs, usually related to your privacy. To keep the lights on, they’ll often track your online activities, then sell that info to advertisers or other nosy so-and-sos. Some providers have even been caught injecting ads and tracking cookies into their users’ browser sessions.

If you use a “free” VPN, you’re putting your privacy at risk, and the experience will be less than satisfying. I urge you not to do it.

What Else Can a VPN Do?

A VPN not only does an excellent job of enhancing and protecting your Pokémon Go hunts, but it also offers a number of other helpful features.

A VPN encrypts your internet connection, which prevents your ISP, the government, or hackers from monitoring your online activities.

Public WiFi hotspots, which can come in handy while hunting Pokémon, are notoriously unprotected, making them the favorite hangouts of hackers. They love hotspots, as they can watch other users’ activities, allowing them to steal those users’ personal and business information. A VPN’s encryption prevents this from happening.

In addition to opening access to Pokémon Go, a VPN opens access to other games, such as League of Legends, Final Fantasy, World of Warcraft, Minecraft, and more.

VPNs can also overcome bans from other games, like Runescape and Fortnite, as well as bans from services like the Discord messaging app and Twitch streaming service.

A VPN also opens access to streaming content around the globe that might not normally be available in your area. This includes Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Spotify, and other video and music streaming services.

Conclusion

Pokémon Go players can improve their hunting trips by using a VPN, while also protecting and enhancing their other online activities from monitoring.

NordVPN offers the best all-around VPN service for Pokémon Go players. Fast connections, comprehensive global server coverage, and excellent privacy and security protections make it the best choice for protecting you while you’re playing Pokémon Go or while enjoying other online activities.

For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.

Pokémon Go VPN FAQs