Best VPN for Warzone in 2024 – get bot lobbies easily
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Warzone’s skill-based matchmaking (SBMM for short), which pairs you with players of the same level, can be fun and challenging. But sometimes, you want to relax and shoot some easy targets while climbing your way up the leaderboard.
However, getting bot lobbies outside of training matches and avoiding SBMM are not things that Warzone 3 (WZ3) just allows you to do. Luckily, you can avoid restrictions by getting a VPN for Warzone. A reliable Warzone VPN can help you get bot lobbies for easy and fun gameplay. Additionally, it will protect you from DDoS attacks and might even reduce ping.
But with so many VPNs to choose from, how can you know which one can successfully bypass COD’s SBMM? Our research team and I selected the best VPNs for Warzone, so all you have to do is read this guide and pick one to help you get easier lobbies in Warzone.
Best VPNs for Warzone bot lobbies in 2024
- NordVPN – the best Warzone VPN in 2024
- Surfshark – a fast and affordable Warzone VPN
- Norton Secure VPN – an extremely secure Warzone VPN
- ExpressVPN – a feature-rich Warzone VPN
- CyberGhost – a Warzone VPN with gaming-optimized servers
We spare no effort to test the products & their features. All information is gathered by our in-house research team & fact-checked by our team of experts. Discover the ins and outs of our testing procedures.
Does a VPN really work for Warzone?
Yes, a VPN like NordVPN works with Warzone and can be a game-changer. It's like adding a secret perk to your loadout. By spoofing your location, you can dodge those demanding lobbies and find yourself in a relaxed match with some easier targets. Plus, a good VPN can boost your connection, so you'll be dropping those kills without lag. NordVPN is a solid choice with fast speeds and a big server network for a low-ping connection.
When does Warzone integrate with Black Ops 6?
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will come out on October 25th, 2024. However, the initial release version usually isn’t integrated into Warzone. Players typically have to wait around a month until the Season 1 update. Until then, they can enjoy the single-player campaign, various multiplayer matches, and the cooperative zombie mode.
For reference, let’s look at how long it took for previous COD games to receive season 1 updates after release that unlock Warzone:
- Modern Warfare (2019): Oct 25 – Dec 3 (39 days)
- Black Ops Cold War (2020): Nov 13 – Dec 16 (33 days)
- Vanguard (2021): Nov 5 – Dec 8 (33 days)
- Modern Warfare 2 (2022): Oct 28 – Nov 16 (19 days)
- Modern Warfare 3 (2023): Nov 10 – Dec 6 (26 days)
As you can see, the wait time was always around one month or less. We’ll eagerly await the COD: Black Ops 6 season 1 update to test various VPNs with it. Then, we’ll update this article with information regarding which VPNs are best for Warzone.
Best VPNs for Warzone
At Cybernews, I and the research team tested 41 providers: their speed, performance, ability to access geo-blocked content, security, price, and general features. For this list, I selected the top 5 VPN providers that are the best for Warzone. Here are their brief reviews:
1. NordVPN – the ultimate VPN for Warzone in 2024
| Servers/Countries: | 6800+ servers in 111 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | 10 |
| Price: | From $2.99/month |
| Current deal: | Get 74% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
NordVPN is the best VPN for Warzone in 2024, and for gaming overall. It’s also the fastest VPN on the market right now. Its combination of blazing-fast speeds, robust security, and extensive server network made it a compelling enough option to place it as a winner.
Server location and network size. Over 6800+ NordVPN servers are distributed in 111 countries with a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia, with additional coverage in emerging markets. I successfully got easier Warzone lobbies with NordVPN in server locations like Kenya, India, Turkey, and Cambodia. Specialized gaming servers are not explicitly advertised but offer good overall performance. Server switching was smooth, with minimal connection drops.
Speed and latency. The NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol makes your Internet speed fly through the roof, resulting in average drops in speed no higher than 13%. This is ideal for playing such games as Warzone. NordVPN testing shows that it is the fastest among all the providers, which is crucial for Warzone gaming. During the game, I experienced low ping times (131 ms with the US servers), especially on nearby servers, ensuring responsive gameplay. Speed tests conducted with NordVPN during peak and off-peak hours showed consistent performance. NordLynx protocol delivered impressive results, too.
Security features and privacy policies. NordVPN has new-generation encryption and a kill switch to make your connection much safer. This means you are protected from DDoS attacks and data leaks, guaranteeing a stable and uninterrupted Warzone gaming experience. NordVPN also maintains a strict no-logs policy, which is independently audited, so you’re safe on the privacy side, too.
Compatibility with gaming platforms. NordVPN is supported on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and select gaming consoles. It has user-friendly apps for most platforms (router setups can require some technical knowledge), with clear instructions.
Pricing and subscription plans. NordVPN's pricing starts at just $2.99/month making it highly affordable given the extensive features and superior performance it offers. You can also make use of its 7-day free trial and a 30-day refund policy.
Personal experience. I especially liked that NordVPN's user interface is intuitive, making it easy to navigate and find desired server locations. Performance in Warzone was consistently solid, with minimal lag and stable connections. Customer support was responsive and helpful when needed.
2. Surfshark – fast yet budget-friendly VPN for Warzone
| Servers/Countries: | 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | Unlimited |
| Price: | From $1.99/month |
| Current deal: | Now up to 87% OFF Surfshark + 4 months FREE |
Surfshark is a budget-conscious Warzone VPN that does not compromise on performance, making it an attractive option for gamers. Its combination of affordability, speed, and security features makes it one of the strongest VPNs in the Warzone arena.
Server location and network size. Surfshark has more than 3200 servers in 100 countries. Its global coverage focuses on popular gaming regions. Specifically for Warzone, I found that locations like India, Cambodia, Nigeria, Egypt, and more, work best for getting easier lobbies. Overall, Surfshark definitely offers a decent selection of servers for finding less crowded Warzone gaming environments.
Speed and latency. In terms of speed, Surfshark is excellent. The average speed drop in most countries is a mere 23%, and in Europe, it is as small as just 6%. My Warzone gaming session with Surfshark maintained consistent upload speeds, more than suitable for online gaming. It also has low latency (I had 133 ms with the US server and 61 ms with the UK server), particularly on European servers, contributing to responsive gameplay. Surfshark tests also demonstrated strong performance on the WireGuard protocol, reducing retention compared to other protocols.
Security features and privacy policies. Surfshark, like NordVPN, excels in security and privacy fields. AES-256-GCM encryption provides robust protection. This high-level encryption is crucial for Warzone gaming as it protects against DDoS attacks and guarantees your data remains secure, maintaining a stable connection and preventing disruptions during gameplay. Moreover, your data is protected by a no-logs policy, which is regularly audited by independent firms.
Compatibility with gaming platforms. Surfshark VPN has extensive platform compatibility, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and a selection of gaming consoles. It has user-friendly apps with straightforward setup processes (it mostly took me under 10 minutes to get started). Overall, I successfully installed and used Surfshark on multiple devices, including gaming consoles like PlayStation 5.
Pricing and subscription plans. Surfshark offers highly competitive pricing, especially with long-term plans, starting at $1.99/month. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day trial free of charge. All of this can be used on an unlimited number of devices.
Personal experience. Surfshark's emphasis on affordability doesn't compromise its performance. You can expect lightning-fast speeds, strong security, and a wide range of server locations. The intuitive interface and reliable performance make it a 5-star choice for Warzone gamers wanting a cost-effective VPN solution. And, if you’re curious how Surfshark compares to NordVPN, we’ve made an in-depth comparison of the two leading contenders.
3. Norton Secure VPN – security-focused VPN for Warzone
| Servers/Countries: | 5000+ servers in 28 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | 10 |
| Price: | from $0.83/month |
| Current deal: | Now up to 80% OFF Norton VPN |
Norton Secure VPN is a secure VPN choice for protecting your connection during intense Warzone matches. While Norton Secure VPN doesn’t provide blazing-fast speeds, if security is your top priority, then this VPN is a great pick.
Server location and network size. With 5000+ servers in 28 countries, Norton Secure VPN secures its spot among the best VPNs for Warzone. While it covers key regions, it lacks the extensive network of some competitors. Nonetheless, it offers locations suitable for finding less competitive lobbies (New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa). During my Norton Secure VPN analysis with Warzone, I found server availability to be good, but the regional selection was limited for finding the best Warzone lobbies compared to wider networks when you can select a specific country.
Speed and latency. In terms of speed, I found that Norton Secure VPN retains around 74% of the original baseline speed and has a ping of 122 ms (US server), making it an optimal choice for Warzone. While not as fast as NordVPN or Surfshark, it's still a stable and consistent Warzone VPN. While speeds were stable, other VPNs demonstrated lower latency, offering a smoother gaming experience.
Security features and privacy policies. In terms of security, Norton VPN has all the essential features that make it a truly secure VPN. The industry-standard AES-256 encryption will ensure the utmost safety of your data while gaming, and protect you against DDoS attacks. This level of encryption is crucial for maintaining a secure connection preventing disruptions during intense Warzone matches. Norton Secure VPN promises it maintains a no-logs policy to protect user privacy. In terms of DNS leak tests, they were successful, and the kill switch functioned as expected.
Compatibility with gaming platforms. This VPN provider is compatible with PCs, macOS, Android smartphones and tablets, and iOS devices. If you’ve used Norton Security suite, you’ll be familiar with VPN apps as well. It’s a really basic and intuitive interface, which makes it great for beginner users. Its installation and usage during Warzone were smooth across different devices.
Pricing and subscription plans. While Norton Secure VPN is moderately priced at $0.83/month, discounts are available for annual subscriptions and security packages. If you decide to opt for a VPN with a security suite, you can protect up to 10 devices simultaneously. What I also liked is that you can test it with a 30-day free trial.
Personal experience. Norton Secure VPN offers a secure and reliable connection for Warzone. However, the trade-off in speed compared to top performers might be a concern for some Warzone players. If you prioritize responsiveness and minimal lag, you may benefit from exploring VPNs known for their higher speeds (like NordVPN or Surfshark).
4. ExpressVPN – feature-packed VPN for lag-free Warzone gaming
| Servers/Countries: | 3000+ servers in 105 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | 8 |
| Price: | from $4.99/month |
| Current deal: | Now up to 82% OFF ExpressVPN + 6 months FREE |
ExpressVPN is a renowned VPN provider excellent for Warzone and other games. While its price might deter budget-conscious users, it brings blazing-fast speeds, market-leading security measures, and other complementary features like an Aircove router.
Server location and network size. ExpressVPN comes with an impressive network of 3000+ servers across 105 countries. Extensive global coverage, including key gaming regions and locations known for less competitive lobbies, allows you to play Warzone hassle-free. Together with the research team, I found that the best locations for easier Warzone lobbies and ExpressVPN are Kenya, India, Turkey, Cambodia, and some other countries.
Speed and latency. ExpressVPN demonstrated impressive download speeds, minimizing lag during gameplay. It also retained 77% of its original speeds during my Warzone session. The latency was low (I experienced a 60 ms ping with the UK server and 231 ms with the US one), which contributed to responsive gameplay from start to finish. Overall, this provider achieved excellent speed test results, translating to smooth Warzone performance.
Security features and privacy policies. This VPN employs AES-256-GCM encryption for robust data protection and includes a kill switch, split tunneling, and proprietary Lightway protocol for enhanced security and performance. On top, ExpressVPN has an independently audited and court-proven no-logs policy.
Compatibility with gaming platforms. ExpressVPN is compatible with all popular operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and multiple gaming consoles. Luckily, if you play on a console, ExpressVPN’s Aircove router can save you time and cover all of your devices. Nonetheless, I experienced a seamless setup across different devices, and using this VPN was really easy.
Pricing and subscription plans. Compared to other competitors, ExpressVPN has premium pricing, with plans starting at $4.99/month. There’s also a 30-day money refund in case you change your mind. While pricing reflects the premium service offered, it might be a barrier for budget-focused users.
Personal experience. ExpressVPN delivers great speeds and robust security, making it an attractive option if you want top-tier service and easier lobbies for Warzone. However, the premium price point might be a deciding factor if you’re looking for more budget-friendly alternatives. If you’re unsure whether ExpressVPN is the one, read the Express VPN review or compare NordVPN vs ExpressVPN side by side.
5. CyberGhost – cheap Warzone VPN with gaming-optimized servers
| Servers/Countries: | 11500+ servers in 100 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | 7 |
| Price: | from $2.03/month |
| Current deal: | Get 84% OFF CyberGhost + 4 months FREE |
CyberGhost is a gamer-friendly VPN with dedicated gaming servers, which are ideal for shooters like Warzone. While it might not be the fastest contender on the list, it comes with perks like cheap plans and user-friendly apps.
Server location and network size. With CyberGhost, you get to pick from more than 11500 servers in 100 countries worldwide, including key locations like Kenya, Singapore, South Africa, and other countries known for less competitive lobbies. Dedicated gaming servers can be beneficial for finding optimal connections, too. To find the fastest location and improve your gaming experience, I was able to sort the servers based on ping and distance. The only drawback is that if there are no such servers near you, the speeds drop.
Speed and latency. While performance can vary depending on server load and distance, CyberGhost provided consistent upload speeds with the WireGuard protocol, suitable for online gaming. The speed retention was 86%, which is not ideal but can suffice Warzone. While the gaming-optimized servers aimed to reduce latency during my CyberGhost tests (I experienced a 125 ms ping with the US server and around 59 ms ping with the UK server), the overall performance might not match top-tier competitors.
Security features and privacy policies. CyberGhost, like all top-class VPNs, employs AES-256 encryption for strong data protection and includes a kill switch and IP/DNS leak protection. These security features are crucial for Warzone gaming as they prevent DDoS attacks and protect your data, ensuring a smooth and secure gaming experience. CyberGhost also has an audited no-logs policy for your peace of mind.
Compatibility with gaming platforms. This VPN service is compatible with all major OS and some gaming consoles like Xbox One. I liked that CyberGhost is great for beginners and has dedicated gaming features that prevent bandwidth throttling and provide extra-fast speeds, which can lower your ping.
Pricing and subscription plans. CyberGhost is one of the cheapest Warzone VPNs you can get – its plans start at $2.03/month. It also offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee and a free trial for different devices. CyberGhost’s pricing makes it an attractive pick for budget-conscious gamers.
Personal experience. CyberGhost provides a decent foundation for gamers with its dedicated gaming servers and affordable pricing. However, the potential for speed fluctuations and the lack of some advanced features compared to premium competitors might be a deciding factor if you’re solely focused on speedy and lag-free Warzone sessions.
How we tested Warzone VPNs
Together with the Cybernews research team, I conducted detailed testing across multiple devices and platforms to determine the best VPNs for Warzone. Our evaluation focused on factors that were pivotal for optimal gaming performance, security, and user experience.
We used a combination of PC (Lenovo ThinkStation with AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 3945WX processor, 32GB RAM, and Windows 11) and console (PlayStation 5) platforms to check VPN performance in various gaming environments. Here are the variables I included in my testing:
- Server locations and network size (25%). A larger network with numerous servers in diverse locations increases the likelihood of finding less overcrowded servers, leading to easier lobbies. I assessed each VPN's server network's numbers, distribution, and how well it works in countries with easier Warzone lobbies.
- Speed and latency (20%). For the best experience possible, you need VPNs that require minimal lag and high speeds. I measured download and upload speeds and ping (latency) to evaluate each VPN's impact on gameplay performance. I aimed to include mainly those VPNs that had high-speed retention and as low ping as possible to avoid Warzone lag.
- Security features and privacy policies (20%). Protecting yourself from DDoS attacks and data breaches is also a core reason to use a VPN while playing Warzone. For this reason, I analyzed whether a selected VPN is safe, and looked through their encryption standards, no-logs policies, and additional security features like kill switches and DNS leak protection.
- Compatibility with gaming platforms (15%). A VPN should easily integrate into various gaming setups. So, I tested compatibility across PC, console, and mobile platforms, considering ease of setup, any platform-specific features, and how long it takes me to get started.
- Pricing and subscription plans (10%). Value is also essential. I compared VPNs’ pricing tiers, discounts, free trials, and money-back guarantees to determine the overall cost-effectiveness of each VPN.
- Personal experience (10%). Real-world usage provides valuable insights. I assessed user-friendliness, performance during gaming sessions, and customer support responsiveness. For example, how long it takes for a customer support representative to respond to my issues.
Best VPN for COD
NordVPN is the best COD VPN for bot lobbies, delivering consistent results in Warzone, Black Ops 6, and Modern Warfare 3. With fast, optimized servers, it minimizes lag and enhances gameplay, making it easier to find low-skill lobbies. Check out the table below for more VPN options tailored to your gaming needs.
| COD VPN | Warzone bot lobbies | BO6 bot lobbies | MW3 bot lobbies | Ping, ms | Price |
| NordVPN | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | 130.5 | from $2.99 |
| Surfshark | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | 119.2 | from $1.99 |
| Norton Secure VPN | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | 130.1 | from $0.83 |
How to get bot lobbies in Warzone with a VPN
If you want to drop into some easier lobbies and rack up those kills, a VPN can be your secret weapon. By changing your virtual location, you might just find yourself in a match filled with bots. Let’s break it down on how to get started:
How to Get Bot Lobbies in Warzone PC
- Set up your VPN on your PC. Connect to a server in a region known for less competitive lobbies
- Launch Warzone. Let the game connect to the new server
- Drop in and dominate. Get ready to shred through some easy targets
How to get bot lobbies in Warzone on Xbox
- Connect your Xbox to a VPN-enabled router
- Select and connect to a chosen VPN server location
- Launch Warzone on your Xbox
- That’s it. Enjoy playing in less competitive lobbies!
How to get bot lobbies in Warzone on PS5
- Configure your router to use your VPN
- Choose your desired VPN server location for Warzone and connect
- Launch Warzone on your PS5
- You’re done. Enjoy playing in easier lobbies!
Does VPN get you banned in Warzone?
No, using a VPN in Warzone won't get you banned. However, exploiting it to gain an unfair advantage, like targeting bot lobbies, could raise red flags. Play fair and enjoy the benefits of lower ping and better connections without risking your account.
Choose NordVPN and get privacy and secure connections to different servers, reducing latency and improving gameplay without compromising your account safety.
Other ways to get bot lobbies in Warzone
There are some other ways how to get easy bot lobbies in Warzone besides using a VPN. You can try these methods:
- Play early in the day and mid-week. If you tune in for a game early in the day, there might be fewer players, which means it's not going to be overcrowded and you can get easier lobbies.
- Research the location. Another way to get easy bot lobbies in Warzone is to change your location where players aren't too skilled and to check out the locations that don't have high-skilled players.
- Disable crossplay. If you're gaming on a console, FOV might come at your disadvantage. Players that are on PCs might not enjoy competing against a console player.
- Try playing with all 4 players. This method could also get easier lobbies especially if you have a few players in the party with a low K/D (Kills/Deaths) average.
Best VPN location for bot lobbies on Warzone
The best VPN locations for bot lobbies in Warzone are Kenya, Nigeria, Cambodia, Kyrgyzstan, Taiwan, and Vietnam. You can also connect to India, Turkey, and South Africa to experience less competitive gameplay than in major gaming hubs like the US and Europe.
These locations often have smaller player populations and lower skill levels. However, the best VPN location depends on factors like:
- Your geographic location. Connecting to distant servers can increase ping, potentially affecting gameplay.
- Time of day. Consider time zone differences, as server load varies.
- Server load. Even less populated regions can have competitive lobbies if the server is heavily loaded.
To maximize your chances of easier lobbies, avoid peak gaming hours when experienced players dominate the servers. Instead, aim for off-peak times like early mornings or late nights in your region. These times may overlap with primetime elsewhere, improving your odds of facing less skilled players.
Ultimately, experimenting with different locations is key. Focus on regions known for easier lobbies while monitoring ping and server load. It might take some trial and error, but finding the right spot will enhance your gaming experience.
Can I use a free VPN for Warzone?
There are some free VPNs, but we can’t recommend them. Game developers tend to be really strict about players using VPNs to get past the game rules and might penalize the player or even ban them, depending on the severity of rule-breaking. Free VPNs are too unreliable to properly hide your true location or be able to bypass geo-restrictions at all.
If you are hell-bent on using a free VPN, it’s best to use ProtonVPN or Hotspot Shield. However, they have very few features and might not work for Warzone. They are also quite slow due to poor speed retention and high ping. So, in this case, the best free VPN for Warzone would be a free trial of a premium VPN.
- NordVPN offers a 7-day free trial plus a 30-day money-back guarantee for a total of 37 days of free use of its VPN for Warzone.
- Similarly, Surfshark offers a 30-day guarantee and a week’s trial for risk-free Warzone gaming.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of Warzone, you might already know that Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) can significantly impact your gaming session. If you find yourself consistently matched with highly skilled opponents, a VPN is a viable option to alleviate this frustration. By altering your virtual location, you can access less competitive lobbies, allowing you to increase the kill/death average and improve your leaderboard ranking, or just enjoy a more relaxed gaming session.
For a reliable Warzone VPN solution to boost your Warzone experience and bypass tough geo-restrictions, NordVPN stands out as a top choice. Its far-reaching server network, including strategic locations like Kenya and Singapore, offers great opportunities to find optimal Warzone game servers. Coupled with impressive speeds, robust security features, and a proven track record, NordVPN gives a comprehensive package for gamers looking to boost the Warzone gameplay while staying on top of online privacy.
FAQ
What are bot lobbies on Warzone?
Bot lobbies in Warzone are matches where a significant portion, if not most, of the players are controlled by the bots, rather than human opponents. These controlled players, often referred to as "bots," are generally less skilled than human players, making them easier to defeat.
Does using a VPN give you bot lobbies?
Yes, using a VPN can increase your chances of encountering bot lobbies. By changing your virtual location, you can be matched with servers having fewer active players, leading to more bot opponents. However, this depends on various factors like server load and matchmaking algorithms.
Is a VPN cheating in Warzone?
No. While using a VPN to manipulate matchmaking for an unfair advantage in Warzone can be considered cheating, a VPN simply changes your location to evade skill-based matchmaking (SBMM), as well as protects you from bad actors and DDoS attacks.
Will a Warzone VPN increase my ping?
No, a VPN like NordVPN shouldn't increase your ping in Warzone. Thanks to optimized servers and dedicated gaming features like NordLynx protocol ensures minimal latency and an improved gaming experience.
Does NordVPN work on Warzone?
Yes, NordVPN works perfectly on Warzone. It's been listed as the most suitable VPN for playing this ruthless shooting game. NordVPN has excellent speeds and server locations worldwide.
Is VPN allowed in Warzone 2?
Yes, using a VPN in Warzone 2 is generally allowed. A VPN can improve your gaming experience by providing a more stable connection, bypassing geo-restrictions, and accessing servers with lower ping, which helps to have smoother gameplay.
Can I use Express VPN for Warzone to get bot lobbies?
Yes, you can use ExpressVPN for Warzone to access easier lobbies. Its 3000+ servers across 105 countries, including regions like Kenya, India, and Turkey, allow you to connect to areas with less competitive players. With fast speeds and low latency, ExpressVPN provides smooth gameplay, though its premium pricing may be a consideration for budget users.
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