VPN Speed Estimator
Calculate your expected VPN speeds based on your current connection. Enter your download and upload speeds to see realistic estimates for top VPN providers.
Estimated VPN Speeds
Private Internet Access
Tips to Maximize Your VPN Speed
- Use WireGuard protocol - It's up to 40% faster than OpenVPN
- Connect to nearby servers - Closer servers mean less latency
- Avoid peak hours - Server load affects speed
- Use wired connection - Ethernet is more stable than WiFi
- Keep your VPN app updated - Updates include speed optimizations
VPN Speed Comparison Chart
Average speed retention based on thousands of tests
* Speed retention percentage of original connection speed when connected to a local server
VPN Protocol Speed Comparison
WireGuard
Speed Retention
- Modern, lightweight code
- Fastest encryption
- Best for streaming & gaming
IKEv2/IPSec
Speed Retention
- Fast reconnection
- Good for mobile
- Native on most devices
OpenVPN UDP
Speed Retention
- Highly configurable
- Strong security
- Wide compatibility
OpenVPN TCP
Speed Retention
- More reliable
- Bypasses firewalls
- Slower but stable
Our speed estimator uses real-world speed test data and average speed reduction percentages from thousands of tests. While individual results may vary based on server location, time of day, and network conditions, our estimates are typically within 10-15% of actual speeds.
VPNs add encryption overhead and route your traffic through an additional server, which introduces latency. The encryption process requires computational power, and the physical distance to VPN servers adds travel time. Premium VPNs minimize this impact through optimized protocols and fast server infrastructure.
WireGuard is currently the fastest VPN protocol, offering speeds up to 40% faster than OpenVPN. Lightway (ExpressVPN's proprietary protocol) and NordLynx (NordVPN's WireGuard implementation) also deliver excellent speeds. IKEv2 is fast but less secure, while OpenVPN is slower but highly configurable.
For SD streaming, you need at least 3 Mbps. HD streaming requires 5-10 Mbps, while 4K streaming needs 25+ Mbps. With a good VPN, you should maintain enough speed for 4K streaming if your base connection is 50+ Mbps.
Generally, VPNs add latency (ping) to your connection. However, in some cases, a VPN can reduce ping by providing a more direct route to game servers or bypassing ISP throttling. For competitive gaming, choose a VPN with servers close to your game servers.
Several factors can cause slower-than-estimated speeds: connecting to distant servers, peak usage times, ISP throttling, outdated VPN app, using slower protocols like OpenVPN, or your device's processing power. Try connecting to a closer server and using WireGuard protocol.
Yes, free VPNs are typically much slower than paid alternatives. They have fewer servers, more users per server, bandwidth caps, and less investment in infrastructure. Free VPNs often reduce speeds by 50-80%, compared to 10-20% for premium VPNs.
Server distance significantly impacts VPN speed. Connecting to a server in your country typically reduces speed by 5-15%, while connecting to a server across the globe can reduce speed by 30-50% or more. Always choose the closest server for best speeds.
Yes, some ISPs throttle VPN traffic, which can significantly reduce speeds. A good VPN with obfuscation features can bypass this throttling. Also, your ISP's overall network quality and your base connection speed set the upper limit for VPN performance.
For basic browsing and email, 5 Mbps is sufficient. Video calls need 10-15 Mbps for good quality. Streaming HD content requires 10-25 Mbps. For downloading large files or 4K streaming, aim for 50+ Mbps after VPN connection.