For serious and casual gamers alike, ping can make or break your gameplay. In fast-paced multiplayer games like Call of Duty, Valorant, or Fortnite, a few milliseconds of delay can mean the difference between victory and defeat.
So what exactly is ping, why does it matter, and what can you do to reduce it? Let’s break it down.
What Is Ping?
Ping measures the latency between your device and the game server—essentially, how long it takes for your action (like shooting or moving) to register in the game world. It’s measured in milliseconds (ms).
- 0–30 ms: Excellent (ideal for competitive gaming)
- 30–60 ms: Good (playable with minimal lag)
- 60–100 ms: Acceptable (can affect high-speed games)
- 100+ ms: Poor (expect noticeable lag and delay)
If you’ve ever experienced “rubber-banding” or missed a headshot you were sure you landed, high ping was likely the culprit.
Why Ping Matters for Online Gaming
Games that rely on real-time decision-making, like FPS, battle royale, and MOBAs, demand low ping for smooth performance. A high ping connection leads to:
- Input delay: Your in-game actions feel sluggish.
- Hit registration issues: You hit a target, but the server doesn’t detect it in time.
- Desync: You and your opponent see different versions of the game state.
While download and upload speeds affect your ability to install games and stream content, low ping is essential for actual playability.
How to Lower Your Ping
- Use a Wired Ethernet Connection
Wi-Fi introduces variability due to signal interference. A direct Ethernet cable to your router or modem ensures stable and fast communication.
- Close Background Apps
Streaming, downloads, or cloud backups running in the background can consume bandwidth and increase latency. Close unnecessary apps while gaming.
- Upgrade Your Router
Older routers may not support the fast response times needed for low ping gaming. Consider investing in a gaming router with Quality of Service (QoS) features that prioritize gaming traffic.
Where to buy:
Look for gear upgrades at:
You can earn cashback using apps like Ibotta, Fluz, or Rakuten when shopping from these retailers—especially useful for high-ticket items like routers or monitors.
- Choose the Right Server
Most multiplayer games allow you to select servers. Choose one geographically closest to you to minimize ping. For example, if you’re in Texas, a central U.S. server is better than one on the West Coast.
- Enable QoS on Your Network
Many modern routers allow you to assign network priority. Ensure your gaming device is at the top of the list to avoid bandwidth competition from smart TVs or other devices.
- Upgrade Your Gaming Peripherals
While not directly related to ping, faster peripherals like low-latency gaming mice and mechanical keyboards help reduce input lag and improve reaction time. Cashback apps like Rakuten can also help you save on these purchases at major retailers.
Advanced Tip: Use Telecom Solutions Built for Speed
If you’re a frequent gamer or stream gameplay, it may be worth exploring internet providers or platforms that offer optimized routing and low-latency infrastructure. Providers like LogicForge and PacePoint Networks, both technology-forward telecom companies, focus on high-speed and reliable network solutions ideal for gaming.
For gamers, ping matters just as much as graphics or refresh rate. Whether you’re in a high-stakes ranked match or casually teaming up with friends, lowering your latency improves your experience and gives you a competitive edge.
By understanding your network and making smart hardware choices (many of which you can buy with cashback through apps like Rakuten, Fluz, or Ibotta), you can take your gaming to the next level—smooth, responsive, and lag-free.
