Open NAT vs Moderate NAT
Complete comparison to help you understand which NAT type is right for your gaming setup
Performance Comparison
How Open and Moderate NAT compare across key gaming metrics
| Metric | Open NAT | Moderate NAT |
|---|---|---|
| Matchmaking Speed | Fastest possible | Fast (5-10% slower) |
| Player Pool Size | Can connect to anyone | Limited (70-80% of players) |
| Voice Chat Quality | Perfect connectivity | Good (rare issues) |
| Game Hosting Ability | Can host all game types | Can host most games |
| Connection Stability | Very stable | Stable |
| Security Level | Lower (more exposed) | Higher (router protection) |
| Setup Complexity | Simple or complex | Moderate difficulty |
Open NAT (Type 1)
Open NAT Achievements
- 100% player connectivity
- Zero matchmaking restrictions
- Perfect voice chat reliability
- Full hosting capabilities
- Lowest possible latency
Best for: Competitive gamers, streamers, those who frequently host games
Moderate NAT (Type 2)
Moderate NAT Benefits
- Good gaming performance
- Router firewall protection
- Easier network management
- Compatible with most games
- Balance of performance and security
Best for: Most gamers, families, those prioritizing security
Game-Specific Experiences
Call of Duty
Open NAT Experience
Join any lobby instantly, host games, perfect voice chat
Moderate NAT Experience
Good matchmaking, occasional voice issues, most lobbies accessible
Performance Impact: Minor - both work well
Fortnite
Open NAT Experience
Perfect party connections, can host Creative islands
Moderate NAT Experience
Good party play, may struggle hosting large Creative games
Performance Impact: Moderate - hosting affected
FIFA/EA FC
Open NAT Experience
Fastest FUT matchmaking, no disconnections
Moderate NAT Experience
Good performance, rare disconnections in competitive
Performance Impact: Minor - both suitable
Minecraft
Open NAT Experience
Can host servers for anyone, perfect multiplayer
Moderate NAT Experience
Good for joining servers, limited hosting capability
Performance Impact: High - hosting greatly affected
Apex Legends
Open NAT Experience
Instant squad formation, clear voice chat
Moderate NAT Experience
Good squad play, occasional voice chat drops
Performance Impact: Minor - both work fine
Real-World Gaming Scenarios
Playing with friends regularly
Open NAT Advantage:
Can always connect, host games for group
Moderate NAT Challenge:
Might not connect to some friends with strict NAT
Competitive gaming/eSports
Open NAT Advantage:
Maximum performance, hosting tournaments
Moderate NAT Challenge:
Slightly slower matchmaking, limited hosting
Streaming while gaming
Open NAT Advantage:
Better for viewer games and interactions
Moderate NAT Challenge:
May limit some interactive features
Family gaming setup
Open NAT Advantage:
All devices get best performance
Moderate NAT Challenge:
Good performance, easier to manage security
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Open NAT if you:
- • Play competitive games professionally
- • Frequently host multiplayer games
- • Stream and interact with viewers
- • Experience issues with Moderate NAT
- • Have a dedicated gaming setup
Choose Moderate NAT if you:
- • Are a casual to serious gamer
- • Share network with family/roommates
- • Prioritize network security
- • Want easier network management
- • Don't host games frequently
The Numbers: Performance Difference
Matchmaking speed difference
Player pool reduction with Moderate
Of gamers satisfied with Moderate