5 Best VPNs for Lost Ark: Low Ping, Security & Risk-Free (2024)

Lost Ark comes in several versions, and many players find the ones available in South Korea, Japan, and Russia to be much better. This is mainly because the Western version often has long wait times and some quirky PvP mechanics that can be quite frustrating.

A quality VPN can be a game-changer, allowing you to play all versions lag-free from anywhere. My team and I put over 30 VPNs through their paces to find the best fit for Lost Ark players. We looked for everything that makes a difference — like low ping rates, speedy connections, solid security, and easy-to-use interfaces. After thorough testing, I’ve narrowed it down to the top 5 VPNs that really enhance your Lost Ark gaming experience.

My top pick for Lost Ark is ExpressVPN. It’s the fastest VPN we tested for gaming without interruptions. It also boasts a vast network of servers across the globe for quick and secure access to Lost Ark from anywhere. Better yet, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not 100% happy with it, getting a refund is very straightforward.

Try ExpressVPN for Lost Ark >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Lost Ark in 2024

Best VPNs for Lost Ark — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Excellent Speeds and Reliable Servers to Play Lost Ark Lag-Free Anywhere

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN we tested. A lot of that comes down to its in-house Lightway protocol, which is built for speed and reliability. It only slowed down our connection by about 5%, which is pretty impressive, especially since many VPNs can cut your speed by more than half. We tested servers in South Korea and Japan and got low ping times to play Lost Ark lag-free. So whether you’re raiding or just exploring, ExpressVPN keeps you connected and quick on your feet.

You can choose Lightway protocol from the settings

ExpressVPN makes it possible to play all versions of Lost Ark anywhere without slowdowns. It offers an extensive network of reliable worldwide servers. Besides, all servers are automatically obfuscated, meaning they hide your VPN traffic as normal HTTPS traffic. This allows you to play Lost Ark on restrictive networks like those in schools and offices.

This VPN uses military-grade encryption to keep your online actions secure from prying eyes. It also has a kill switch (Network Lock) that instantly cuts your internet if the VPN drops, keeping your real IP address under wraps. Plus, by masking your IP address, ExpressVPN can protect your home network from being directly targeted by DDoS attacks, which could otherwise slow down your connection or disrupt your gaming session.

One drawback is that ExpressVPN’s subscriptions are on the higher end. However, it frequently offers generous discounts. For instance, I received 49% off on a 12-month plan, plus an additional 3 months free, for a final price of $6.67/month. Additionally, each subscription includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try ExpressVPN risk-free.

Useful Features

• Split tunneling. You can funnel your gaming data through the VPN and let everything else (like your browsing or streaming) use your regular internet connection. This lightens the load on your VPN server, which can really help speed things up and improve your ping, especially if your internet isn’t the fastest to begin with.
• Ease of use. ExpressVPN’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to set up and use, even for those new to VPNs. Installing it on a Windows PC takes no time.
• APK support. If you’re looking for a direct way to install ExpressVPN, it offers an APK on its website. This is super handy if you can’t access the Google Play Store or prefer not to use it. Just download the APK, and you’ll have ExpressVPN up and running in no time.
• Port forwarding. You get this neat feature when you install ExpressVPN on a router. It lets you set up a specific port to handle incoming traffic, which is perfect if you’re into hosting games. Just choose the port, set it up, and you’re good to go.

2. CyberGhost — Gaming-Optimized Servers to Play Lost Ark With Low Ping

CyberGhost offers dedicated servers optimized for online games like Lost Ark. These servers are designed to provide lower latency and faster speeds, essential for a seamless gaming experience if you want to play the Western version of Lost Ark. During our tests, we didn’t record ping over 110ms. Most of the time, it was 60ms or lower, which means you could fully enjoy most online games.

You can also favor servers by pressing the star icon

Unlike most VPNs, CyberGhost offers servers in Moscow to safely access the Russian version of the game. You can also prioritize speed or security by choosing the protocol: WireGuard is faster, and OpenVPN is safer. WireGuared might be more beneficial for Lost Ark, where maintaining a stable and fast connection is vital to avoid lag and disconnections during intense Legion Raids.

The VPN’s beginner-friendly apps make it easy for anyone to set up and use, regardless of technical expertise. The intuitive interface allows you to quickly connect to a gaming server, customize your settings, and start playing Lost Ark without hassle. Plus, its Smart Rules feature lets you automate the VPN — for example, you can select a location to connect to on a start-up.

My only gripe is pricier monthly plans, which come with only a 14-day refund period. However, you can get a long-term subscription for just $2.19/month. Since it’s backed by an extended money-back guarantee, it’s possible to try CyberGhost for free for up to 45 days.

Useful Features

• NAT firewall. CyberGhost’s built-in NAT firewall helps filter out suspicious data packets, enhancing your security. This is beneficial for the Lost Ark gamers, as it helps block unwanted or malicious traffic that could potentially lead to DDoS attacks or other security threats, thus maintaining a more secure and uninterrupted gaming experience.
• Dedicated IP. For an additional fee, you can obtain a dedicated IP address exclusively for your use. This unique IP helps prevent issues common with shared IP addresses, such as being blocked or restricted while gaming online. It gives you a more stable and uninterrupted connection for playing Lost Ark anywhere.
• Identity Guard. This CyberGhost feature alerts you if your Lost Ark credentials have been involved in a data breach.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Massive Network to Quickly Find a Reliable Server for Lost Ark

PIA really comes through with its huge network, making it easy to find a suitable server for reliable access to Lost Ark. When we tested several PIA servers, the performance was top-notch with low ping times. Plus, we didn’t run into any annoying disconnects while battling through raids in Lost Ark.

Lower ping will result in faster response times

Your privacy is well-protected with PIA, thanks to its open-source apps, no-logs policy, and customizable security features. Similar to CyberGhost, you can choose the WireGuard or OpenVPN protocol. It’s also possible to pick the encryption level. For optimal gaming, I recommend using WireGuard with AES 128-bit encryption, but if you feel like you need more protection, set encryption to AES 256-bit.

One potential issue for VPN newcomers is the numerous security settings, which can be overwhelming. However, the default settings are optimized for both speed and security, so you can start playing Lost Ark right away.

You can get PIA for as low as $2.19/month. Plus, all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee to test PIA out for free.

Useful Features

• Unlimited simultaneous connections. PIA allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices at once, so you and your household can securely play Lost Ark on many servers.
• MACE. This feature is an all-in-one blocker for ads, malware, and trackers. It safeguards your IP address and prevents pop-ups that imitate official Lost Ark promotions from appearing, enhancing your online security while gaming.

4. NordVPN — Beginner-Friendly Apps to Quickly Find a Suitable Server for Lost Ark Gaming

NordVPN has a user-friendly design, allowing you to connect to a server with just one click. You can also easily choose a server manually from an interactive map. My tests confirmed that NordVPN runs efficiently in the background, consuming minimal system resources. This lightweight nature means it doesn’t interfere with your game performance, allowing Lost Ark to run smoothly without any noticeable frame drops.

Thanks to the interective map, using it is also super easy

NordVPN’s Meshnet feature is quite handy for playing Lost Ark on a Windows PC. It lets you create a private network, connecting multiple devices as if they were on the same local network. This can enhance your gaming experience by reducing latency and improving connection stability, similar to playing on a LAN, even when you and your friends are in different locations.

On the downside, sometimes it takes me about 30 seconds to connect to a VPN server, which is unusual for VPNs. However, once connected, playing Lost Ark is seamless.

Thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try NordVPN for free. If you’re not satisfied, obtaining a full refund takes no time.

Useful Features

• Threat Protection. It’s a useful feature for gamers that helps block malicious activities and interactions that might occur through compromised websites or downloads.
• NordLynx. Like ExpressVPN, NordVPN has a proprietary protocol called NordLynx. It’s tailored for super-fast connection speeds, making it an excellent choice for gaming. Its lightweight design helps minimize latency for smoother and more responsive gameplay, especially in fast-paced games like Lost Ark.

5. Surfshark — Camouflage Mode to Access Lost Ark on Restrictive Networks

Surfshark’s Camouflage mode (obfuscation) lets you play games securely, even on restrictive networks like at schools or offices. It cleverly disguises your VPN traffic as regular browsing, so you can get around VPN blocks without anyone noticing. Plus, its NoBorders feature helps you pick the best servers based on where you are.

Camouflage mode activates automatically with OpenVPN protocol

Similar to PIA, the VPN allows unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can share it with friends and play Lost Ark together on the same server. During my tests, I connected 7 devices at the same time, and the performance was smooth with no disconnects.

I was initially concerned that Surfshark operates from the Netherlands — a member of the 9 Eyes Alliance that shares information on citizens. However, its verified zero-logs policy and RAM-based servers mean that it doesn’t collect or share your gaming data, keeping your Lost Ark activities private.
Useful Features

• Value for money. You can get Surfshark for just $2.19/month. It’s also possible to try it for free for up to 30 days, thanks to its money-back guarantee.
• Intuitive apps. The intuitive interface allows you to quickly find a reliable server to access Lost Ark.

Quick Comparison Table: Lost Ark VPN Features

I’ve created a concise comparison chart of my top VPN recommendations to help you find the best fit for Lost Ark. The chart highlights crucial features such as speed, server coverage, and simultaneous device connections, along with pricing details.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Lost Ark

Each VPN I recommend allows you to safely play Lost Ark anywhere without lag. But if you prefer to conduct your own tests, use these characteristics to guide your decision:

• Fast speeds and low ping. Choose a VPN with high-speed servers to avoid lag and ensure smooth gameplay. Look for providers known for low latency.
• Wide server coverage. Opt for a VPN with a wide range of server locations, especially in regions where Lost Ark is popular, such as South Korea and Japan.
• Tight security. Ensure the VPN offers robust security features, including strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch. This will keep your data safe when playing online games.
• Simultaneous connections. If you use multiple devices, choose a VPN that allows multiple simultaneous connections. This ensures you can protect all your devices without having to disconnect one to connect to another.
• Easy to use apps. A user-friendly app makes it easier to quickly connect to a server and start playing. Look for VPNs with intuitive interfaces and easy setup processes.
• Trustworthy money-back guarantee. A dependable money-back guarantee indicates that the provider is confident in the quality of its services. During my tests, I had no issues obtaining refunds from any of the VPNs I evaluated.

Why Should I Use a VPN to Play Lost Ark?

Using a VPN while playing Lost Ark can really level up your gaming experience. For starters, it lets you access the Korean and Japanese versions of the game, which many players say are better than the Western release due to extra features and updates. This way, you can enjoy this MMOARPG just as it was originally intended, with all the cool stuff that might not be available in your region.

It’s also worth mentioning that Lost Ark isn’t available in some countries like Belgium and South Africa. In Belgium, the game is banned due to its in-game loot boxes, which conflict with the country’s anti-gambling laws. In South Africa, the game is unavailable due to Amazon not having publishing rights for the region.

Besides, a VPN can keep your ISP from slowing down your connection. Sometimes, ISPs throttle your speed if they see you’re gaming a lot, but with a VPN, your online activity is encrypted, making it hard for them to pinpoint what you’re up to and slow you down. Plus, it keeps your personal info safe by encrypting your traffic, which is great for dodging hackers and snoops while you’re in-game.

And while a VPN isn’t a silver bullet against DDoS attacks on game servers, it can protect your personal network by hiding your IP address, making it tougher for those attacks to hit you directly.

What’s the Best Server to Play Lost Ark?

To find the best server to play Lost Ark, you need to consider several factors, including ping, server location, and population. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Ping and Location

Low ping is crucial for smooth gameplay, reducing lag, and ensuring quick response times. Choosing a server close to your geographical location helps maintain a stable and fast connection, which is essential for real-time actions in Lost Ark.

Also keep an eye on the status of the server

Server Population

The population of a server affects the availability of groups for activities and events. High-population servers have more active players, which is beneficial for finding groups and participating in community events. However, during peak times, they might also experience more congestion and lag.

If you prefer a less crowded server for a smoother experience, consider servers with lower populations. Be aware that lower-population servers might have fewer active players for group activities.

In addition, you can also check out this guide put by Lost Ark community member Ayia. Keep in mind that this spreadsheet may become outdated as new resources and updates are released.

The document is free and available for everyone

Community and Activities

A server’s community and activity level influence the overall gaming experience. Active servers with frequent events and engaged guilds enhance social interactions and provide more opportunities for collaborative gameplay, making the game more enjoyable and immersive.

Researching the community and activity level on each server can help. Some servers may have more active guilds, frequent events, and a vibrant player community, which can enhance your gaming experience.

Additional Tips

Regularly check server status and updates from the official Lost Ark website or forums to get the latest information on server performance and population. You can also join Lost Ark community forums or Discord groups to get real-time advice and server recommendations from fellow players.

How to Play Lost Ark on a Korean Server in English

1. Get a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN as it has fast servers in South Korea and unlimited bandwidth.
2. Connect to a South Korean server. Open the South Korean Lost Ark website and hit the Log in button.
   Make sure you have a Korean IP address
3. Register a Lost Ark account. You’ll need a Naver or Daum account, which requires a Korean phone number for verification. You can obtain a temporary Korean number using services like SMS Man. Ensure that any method used for registration is legal and complies with the terms set by the account provider.
   Be sure to get a South Korean phone number in advance
   Pro Tip: It might be easier to play Lost Ark on a Russian server in English because the Russian version has fewer loops to jump through and has an English patch.
4. Install the Lost Ark game. Just click on the Game Start button to initiate the download.
5. Download the English patch. Unzip it in your Lost Ark directory.
6. Click on LaoTranslation.exe file. Make sure you open it with administrative permissions.
   If your PC doesn’t open the file, try disabling your antivirus
7. Select the English option. This will change a few files in your games directory.
   If you get an error, try reinstalling the game again
8. Open the game using the patch. Press the large Start the Game button and enjoy playing Korean Lost Ark in English.
9. After playing, select Restore original on close in the translation patch. This ensures the game installs updates and functions properly later.

FAQs on Using a VPN for Lost Ark

Is it legal to play Lost Ark with a VPN?

Yes, it’s generally legal to use a VPN for Lost Ark in most countries. VPNs are great tools to keep your gaming activity safe and private. However, you should familiarize yourself with local laws regarding VPN usage. Certain countries like China and Iran have restrictions on VPNs. Remember, it’s your responsibility to use a VPN legally and adhere to the laws of your location and the game’s terms of service.

Can I play Lost Ark on Russian servers?

Yes, you can. Lost Ark is available on Russian servers, but you’ll need a VPN with servers that work in Russia to create an account specific to the Russian region. Also, bear in mind that you might encounter language barriers.

Do I need a VPN to play Lost Ark Korea?

Yes, unless you are in South Korea. A reliable VPN allows safe access to Lost Ark from anywhere. Without a VPN, you’ll be redirected to your local Lost Ark server.

What countries is Lost Ark available in?

Lost Ark is available in many worldwide regions. Use a quality VPN to safely access the game from anywhere. Here are just a few of the many countries where Lost Ark is available:

• North America: United States, Canada, Mexico
• Europe: the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain
• Latin America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia
• Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
• Asia: South Korea, Japan

What can I do if Lost Ark is not working with a VPN?

First off, make sure that you get a VPN that’s compatible with online games like Lost Ark, and ensure it’s set to a region where the game is accessible. Other than that, try switching to a different VPN server and checking for VPN software updates. You might also want to restart your router, check for IP leaks, temporarily turn off your antivirus, and reinstall the VPN. As a last resort, consider contacting the VPN provider’s customer support.

Can I use a free VPN for Lost Ark?

Possibly, but it’s not recommended. Free VPNs often have limited servers, data caps, and slower speeds, which can negatively impact your gaming experience. It’s doubtful you’ll find a free South Korean, Japanese, or Russian server that is fast enough for lag-free gaming. Instead, It’s a better alternative to get a premium VPN with a money-back guarantee.

Additionally, free VPNs often fall short on safety. They typically lack essential security features, such as strong encryption and DNS/IP leak protection, which are crucial for defending against hackers and DDoS attacks. Moreover, some free services have been known to sell user data to third-party advertisers, posing a significant risk to your online privacy.

Get the Best VPN for Lost Ark

Using a reliable VPN can significantly enhance your Lost Ark gameplay. A VPN makes it possible to bypass geo-restrictions and safely access the game from anywhere. So you can play with friends in different regions and expand your gaming community.

ExpressVPN is my top recommendation due to its industry-leading security features, excellent speeds, and extensive server network. This combination is perfect for a smooth and secure gaming experience. Better yet, the VPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN with Lost Ark risk-free.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Lost Ark…