Looking for a VPN that won’t break the bank? VPNs help keep your online activities private, but not all come with a high price tag. The best cheap VPNs offer strong security features, good speeds, and reliable performance while costing as little as $2 per month.
Several affordable VPN options exist in 2025, with companies like Surfshark, NordVPN, and Private Internet Access leading the pack. These budget-friendly services don’t cut corners on important features. They still provide what you need: strong encryption, no-logs policies, and the ability to access content from different regions.
1. Surfshark
Surfshark stands out as one of the cheapest VPNs available in 2025, starting at just $2.19 per month with a two-year plan. This budget-friendly option doesn’t cut corners on quality, ranking as the #2 provider overall according to Tom’s Guide.
The monthly price varies based on commitment length. A single month costs $15.45, while a one-year plan drops to $2.99 per month. The best value comes with the two-year subscription at $2.19 monthly.
Surfshark offers excellent value with its unlimited device connections policy. This feature lets users protect all their devices with just one subscription, making it ideal for families or tech enthusiasts with multiple gadgets.
Security remains strong despite the low price. Surfshark doesn’t compromise on protection, offering the same robust security features found in more expensive competitors.
The service boasts more server locations than some competitors like ProtonVPN. This wider coverage helps users find faster connections and access more geo-restricted content from around the world.
Reddit users in digital privacy communities often recommend Surfshark as a secure yet affordable option. Some posts mention discount coupons offering up to 80% off the standard price.
Recent pricing changes have moved Surfshark away from its ultra-budget roots. CNET’s 2025 review notes that while still excellent, it’s no longer the rock-bottom priced option it once was.
The first-year pricing remains competitive at $48 for the first 15 months. After this initial period, the annual cost increases to $79, which is still reasonable compared to premium VPN services.
For users seeking the best balance between affordability and features, Surfshark hits a sweet spot. The unlimited connections policy alone can save money compared to services that limit device numbers.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN stands out as one of the top cheap VPN options available today. While not the absolute cheapest service, it offers exceptional value considering its premium features.
Current pricing for NordVPN is around $3.39 per month with a long-term plan. This makes it affordable for most users who want strong security without breaking the bank.
NordVPN frequently runs special deals and promotions that can save users 50-70% off standard pricing. These discounts typically apply to longer subscription plans.
What makes NordVPN worth the money? First, it provides military-grade encryption to keep user data safe. Its no-logs policy also means your browsing history stays private.
The service offers over 5,000 servers in 60+ countries. This wide coverage helps users bypass geo-restrictions and access content from almost anywhere in the world.
Speed is another area where NordVPN shines. Many cheap VPNs sacrifice performance, but NordVPN maintains fast connections even during heavy encryption.
Users can connect up to six devices simultaneously with one subscription. This feature makes it a good choice for families or people with multiple devices.
The apps work on all major platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. They feature simple interfaces that even beginners can use easily.
NordVPN includes extras that many budget VPNs don’t offer. Their Threat Protection feature blocks ads and malware. Split tunneling lets users choose which apps use the VPN connection.
Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat. This level of service isn’t common among lower-priced VPN providers.
According to user recommendations on Reddit, NordVPN ranks as one of the most trusted cheap VPN services. Many users point to its reliability as a key selling point.
Tom’s Guide rates NordVPN as the best overall VPN, noting that its slightly higher price than the absolute cheapest options is justified by its superior performance.
A 30-day money-back guarantee lets users try the service risk-free. This policy shows the company’s confidence in their product quality.
3. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out as one of the most affordable VPNs available today. Users looking for budget-friendly protection don’t need to sacrifice quality when choosing this service.
PIA has built a strong reputation over the years. They’ve been providing trustworthy VPN service for over 10 years, making them a veteran in the digital privacy space.
The pricing structure makes PIA very competitive. Their monthly plan costs about $12, but the real savings come with longer commitments. The annual plan drops to around $40, which breaks down to just over $3 per month.
For the best value, many users opt for the 2-year subscription plan. This longer-term option brings the monthly cost down to approximately $2.03, making it one of the cheapest reliable VPNs on the market.
Payment flexibility adds to PIA’s appeal. They accept standard methods like credit cards and PayPal, giving users convenient options when signing up.
When comparing costs with competitors, PIA maintains its budget-friendly edge. Services like NordVPN and Surfshark often get mentioned alongside PIA in discussions about value, but PIA typically offers lower prices than Nord while providing similar core features.
Reddit users frequently recommend PIA in VPN discussions. While some users suggest Surfshark as another budget option, PIA continues to maintain a loyal following among cost-conscious privacy enthusiasts.
The service balances affordability with functionality. Despite the low price point, PIA delivers solid performance for everyday tasks like browsing and streaming without significant slowdowns.
For casual users, PIA hits the sweet spot between cost and features. Not everyone needs the most advanced VPN capabilities, and many find that PIA provides just enough protection for everyday internet use without breaking the bank.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost stands out as one of the best VPN services in 2025. It offers a good mix of features at a price that won’t break the bank.
The service runs fast servers that work well for streaming, gaming, and regular browsing. Users can connect to servers in many countries, which helps with getting around geo-blocks.
Privacy is a strong point for CyberGhost. They have a strict no-logs policy and use strong encryption to keep your data safe. This means your online activities stay private.
CyberGhost works on all major devices including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. You can protect multiple devices with just one account, making it a good value.
Cost-wise, CyberGhost is quite affordable. While not the cheapest VPN on the market, it offers good value for what you get. Their long-term plans provide the best savings.
The service includes a 45-day money-back guarantee with all plans. This gives you plenty of time to test it out risk-free to see if it meets your needs.
User reviews suggest CyberGhost is decent though not perfect. Some users praise its easy-to-use apps while others mention occasional connection issues.
For torrenting fans, CyberGhost offers special servers set up just for P2P sharing. These servers are made to handle high-bandwidth activities while keeping users anonymous.
Customer support includes live chat that’s available 24/7. This is helpful when you need quick answers to technical problems or account questions.
CyberGhost also offers special servers for streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and others. These are regularly updated to bypass streaming site blocks.
The apps come with extra security features like an automatic kill switch, which cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops. This prevents your real IP from being exposed.
5. Ivacy VPN
Ivacy VPN has been in the VPN market since 2007, making it one of the more established providers. They stand out for offering premium features at budget-friendly prices.
One of Ivacy’s main selling points is its affordability. At just $1.17 per month, it ranks among the cheapest VPN options available today.
Despite the low cost, Ivacy maintains a strict no-logs policy. This commitment to privacy helps users feel secure when browsing online.
Ivacy was a pioneer in split tunneling technology. This feature lets users choose which apps use the VPN connection and which ones don’t, giving more control over internet traffic.
The service boasts strong download speeds worldwide. This makes it suitable for users who need quick connections for streaming or gaming activities.
Speaking of streaming, Ivacy has proven effective at unblocking various streaming platforms. This capability adds value for users wanting to access geo-restricted content.
The VPN offers apps for all major platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Their interface is straightforward and easy to navigate, even for beginners.
For security, Ivacy uses industry-standard protocols and strong encryption. These measures help protect user data from potential threats.
Customer support options include live chat and email. They respond quickly to user questions and concerns, which enhances the overall experience.
Ivacy allows multiple device connections with a single subscription. This feature lets users protect all their devices without paying extra.
While not as well-known as some competitors, Ivacy offers adequate service that meets most basic VPN needs. The balance of features and price makes it worth considering.
According to recent evaluations, Ivacy performs well in unblocking streaming sites. This makes it a good option for entertainment-focused users on a budget.
Ivacy offers various subscription plans with longer commitments providing better value. Their money-back guarantee gives new users a chance to test the service risk-free.
6. Proton VPN
Proton VPN stands out in the VPN market as a service that values both privacy and affordability. It’s one of the few providers that offers a truly free plan with no data limits or speed restrictions.
The free version of Proton VPN gives users access to servers in three countries. While this is limited compared to paid options, it’s enough for basic privacy needs without any cost.
For those wanting more features, Proton’s paid plans are reasonably priced. These plans unlock the full server network and add features like streaming support and P2P capabilities.
Security is a strong point for Proton VPN. The company follows a strict no-logs policy and uses strong encryption to protect user data. Their Swiss headquarters also adds an extra layer of privacy protection.
Speed tests show Proton VPN performs well compared to other budget options. Users can expect good connection speeds for browsing, streaming, and downloading content.
According to PCMag’s 2025 rankings, Proton VPN is their top pick for affordable VPNs. This recognition speaks to the quality of service they provide at their price point.
The paid plans start at a competitive rate that won’t break the bank. Longer subscriptions offer better value, as is common with most VPN services.
Users on Reddit have praised Proton VPN for being “reliable” and “well known.” This community approval is important when choosing a VPN you can trust.
The apps work on all major platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. This wide compatibility ensures users can protect all their devices with one subscription.
Customer support options include email and an extensive knowledge base. While not as immediate as live chat, the quality of help is generally good.
For budget-conscious users, Proton VPN offers an excellent balance of price and performance. The free tier serves as a good starting point for VPN beginners.
7. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN stands out as a budget-friendly VPN option that doesn’t skimp on features. This Sweden-based service offers plans starting at just $2 per month for their yearly subscription, making it one of the more affordable choices on the market.
Users get access to all PrivateVPN apps across different devices. The service doesn’t limit your bandwidth, so you can browse, stream, and download without hitting any caps.
PrivateVPN describes itself as the world’s most-trusted private VPN provider. While that’s a bold claim, they have built a solid reputation for privacy protection and security features.
What makes PrivateVPN stand out is its focus on speed. They promise “lightning speeds” which is crucial for users who want to stream content or play online games while using a VPN.
Customer support is available 24/7, which helps new users who might need help setting up or troubleshooting. This level of support isn’t always guaranteed with cheaper VPN options.
The company markets itself as the “fastest growing private VPN worldwide.” Growth suggests that many users find value in their service, though it’s not as widely mentioned in expert reviews as some competitors.
When comparing to other budget VPNs, PrivateVPN doesn’t appear in as many “best of” lists as services like Surfshark or NordVPN. These competitors are often ranked higher in cheap VPN comparisons.
PrivateVPN focuses on being “private” as the name suggests. They emphasize security and anonymity, which are key factors for many VPN users beyond just accessing geo-restricted content.
The service markets itself as both safe and affordable. This combination appeals to budget-conscious users who don’t want to sacrifice security for a lower price.
For those looking to try PrivateVPN, they typically offer money-back guarantees. This lets users test the service risk-free to see if it meets their needs before committing.
8. Bitdefender VPN
Bitdefender VPN is a privacy service from the well-known antivirus company. It offers users complete online anonymity by encrypting all internet traffic on various devices.
The service comes at a reasonable price point, making it a contender in the cheap VPN market. Users can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with a single subscription.
One helpful feature is split tunneling. This lets users choose which apps use the VPN and which ones connect directly to the internet. It gives more control over privacy while maintaining speed for trusted apps.
The app experience is smooth and user-friendly. Bitdefender has created an interface that works well across PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. This makes it easy for anyone to protect their online privacy.
However, when compared to specialized VPN providers, Bitdefender shows some limitations. It’s often seen as a side product from an antivirus company rather than a full-featured VPN service.
Some users on Reddit have suggested alternatives like Nord, Express, or Proton VPN. These services focus solely on VPN technology and may offer more advanced features.
For those on a tight budget looking for basic privacy protection, Bitdefender VPN offers good value. Its connection with a trusted security company gives users extra confidence in its privacy practices.
The service fits well into Bitdefender’s wider security packages. Many customers find it convenient to get their antivirus and VPN from the same provider. This integration can save both money and setup time.
Speed performance is adequate for most everyday uses like browsing and streaming. The VPN keeps connections stable without major slowdowns that would affect normal internet use.
For users who want a simple, affordable VPN from a known security brand, Bitdefender VPN is worth considering. It provides essential privacy protection without complex settings or a high price tag.
9. Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN stands out in the crowded VPN market with its simple pricing model. Users pay €5 per month (about $5.43), with no complicated tiers or hidden fees. This straightforward approach has been in place since 2009.
Privacy is where Mullvad truly shines. The service is widely considered one of the most reputable VPN providers for privacy protection. They don’t require an email address or other personal details to sign up.
Mullvad uses a number system instead of usernames and passwords. This unique account system helps users stay anonymous from the start of their VPN journey.
The company is based in Sweden and follows a strict no-logging policy. They don’t track or store information about what users do online, adding another layer of privacy protection.
Mullvad has earned a sterling reputation for its security practices. Their apps are open-source, allowing anyone to check the code for security issues or backdoors.
The service offers apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. All apps use strong encryption to keep connections safe from prying eyes.
Speed tests show Mullvad performs well for daily browsing and streaming. It might not be the fastest VPN available, but it offers a good balance between speed and security.
While Mullvad is not the cheapest VPN option on the market, its consistent pricing and lack of long-term contracts give users flexibility. There are no discounts for longer subscriptions, but also no surprise price increases.
For those who want extra privacy, Mullvad accepts cash payments sent by mail. They also take Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, allowing for completely anonymous payment options.
The service works with Netflix and other streaming platforms, though this isn’t their main focus. Users looking mainly for streaming might want to check other options first.
Customer support happens through email tickets rather than live chat. Response times are generally good, though not instant like some competitors offer.
Mullvad keeps things simple by focusing on its core mission: protecting privacy. They avoid flashy marketing campaigns and instead put resources into security improvements and privacy features.
10. Windscribe VPN
Windscribe VPN is one of the most affordable options in the VPN market today. This service stands out with its free tier that gives users 10GB of data monthly without requiring payment details.
For those needing more data, Windscribe’s paid plans start at very reasonable prices. Users can build their own custom plan by selecting only the server locations they need, paying just $1 per location per month.
The standard pro plan gives full access to all servers and unlimited data. Compared to other VPN providers, Windscribe often costs less while still delivering solid security features.
Windscribe goes beyond just being a VPN service. It includes an ad blocker and helps users unblock entertainment content that might be restricted in their region.
Privacy features are strong with Windscribe. The company uses encryption to protect browsing activity and has a strict no-logs policy that many users appreciate.
Server coverage is good but not as extensive as some bigger names like NordVPN. Still, most users find the available locations sufficient for their needs.
According to Reddit users, Windscribe is often described as the best underrated VPN on the market. Many who try the free version end up upgrading to the paid service.
When compared to NordVPN, Windscribe is typically the cheaper option if you’re looking for basic VPN features. This makes it attractive for budget-conscious users.
The desktop and mobile apps are user-friendly. Even beginners can set up and use Windscribe without much trouble, which adds to its appeal as a cheap VPN option.
Connection speeds are generally fast enough for streaming and downloading, though they may not match the top-tier providers. For most regular internet users, the difference isn’t noticeable.
Customer support might not be as quick as some competitors, but the help center contains plenty of useful guides. The company also maintains an active Reddit community where users can get answers.
For those looking to protect their online privacy without spending much, Windscribe offers an excellent balance of features and affordability. At as little as $1.33 per month on some plans, it’s definitely worth considering for budget VPN shoppers.
Understanding VPNs
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) offer privacy and security online by creating encrypted connections between your devices and the internet. They hide your IP address and protect your data from prying eyes.
What Is a VPN?
A VPN is a service that protects your internet connection and privacy online. It creates a secure, encrypted tunnel for your data to travel through. This prevents others from seeing what you’re doing online.
When you use a VPN, your real IP address stays hidden. Instead, websites see the VPN server’s IP address. This makes it hard for anyone to track your online activities.
VPNs were first made for businesses. They let remote workers connect safely to company networks. Now, many people use VPNs to keep their personal data safe.
The best cheap VPNs offer this protection without high costs. Services like Surfshark and PureVPN provide strong security features at budget-friendly prices.
How VPNs Work
VPNs use encryption to protect your data. When you connect to a VPN, it creates a secure tunnel between your device and the VPN server.
Key VPN components include:
- Encryption protocols (like OpenVPN, WireGuard)
- VPN servers located worldwide
- VPN clients (apps you install on your devices)
Your data gets scrambled (encrypted) before leaving your device. It travels through the internet in this protected form. When it reaches the VPN server, it gets decrypted and sent to its final destination.
The website or service you’re visiting sees the request coming from the VPN server, not your actual location. This process hides both your identity and your data from potential snoopers.
Top providers like NordVPN and Surfshark offer fast, secure connections with many server options around the world.
Benefits of Using a VPN
VPNs provide several important advantages for internet users:
Privacy Protection:
- Hides your browsing history from your ISP
- Prevents websites from tracking your location
- Protects your identity when using public Wi-Fi
Access to Content:
- Bypasses geo-restrictions on streaming services
- Unlocks websites blocked in certain countries
- Helps avoid internet censorship
VPNs also help protect against hackers when using public Wi-Fi networks. Your sensitive information stays safe even on unsecured connections.
For budget-conscious users, affordable VPN options like Surfshark start at just $2.19 per month. As noted by PCMag, good VPNs can be found for under $10 monthly, with Proton VPN being a top affordable pick.
Many cheap VPNs don’t sacrifice quality. According to user recommendations, services like PureVPN and ExpressVPN offer great value while maintaining strong security features.
Evaluating VPN Features
Choosing the right VPN means looking beyond just price. The key features that make a VPN worth your money include strong security protocols, wide server coverage, and reliable performance.
Security Protocols
When shopping for cheap VPNs, never compromise on security. The best affordable options offer top-tier protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. These protocols ensure your data stays encrypted and private.
WireGuard is the newest protocol that many leading VPNs now include. It’s faster than older options while maintaining strong security. Even budget-friendly services like Surfshark now offer this cutting-edge protocol.
Look for VPNs with a strict no-logs policy. This means the company doesn’t track or store your online activities. Some affordable options like Proton VPN have undergone independent audits to verify their privacy claims.
Kill switches are another must-have security feature. They cut your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
Server Locations
The number and spread of servers directly affects a VPN’s versatility. More locations mean better access to geo-restricted content and faster connections.
Budget VPNs have improved their networks significantly. Services like NordVPN and Surfshark offer thousands of servers across 60+ countries, rivaling premium options.
Check if the VPN has servers in regions important to you. Need to access UK streaming? Make sure it has British servers. Working remotely in Asia? Confirm it has coverage there.
Server quality matters as much as quantity. Some cheaper VPNs use virtual servers that appear to be in one country but physically exist in another. This can affect performance and may raise privacy concerns for some users.
Speed and Performance
Even budget-friendly VPNs should provide reliable speeds. The best options maintain at least 80% of your regular connection speed when connected.
Surfshark ranks high for performance among affordable options, with minimal speed loss on most servers. Some VPNs optimize specific servers for activities like streaming or torrenting.
Connection stability is crucial too. A VPN that frequently disconnects will frustrate you regardless of price. Read user reviews that mention connection reliability before making a decision.
Many VPNs now offer split tunneling, allowing you to route only specific apps through the VPN. This smart feature improves speeds for tasks that don’t need privacy protection while keeping sensitive activities secure.
Test a VPN’s performance using its money-back guarantee period. Most cheap VPNs offer 30-day refunds, giving you time to check speeds on servers you’ll use most often.
Frequently Asked Questions
VPN shoppers often look for the best value when picking a service. Price matters, but so do features, security, and speed.
What are the top affordable VPN services currently available?
The VPN market offers several budget-friendly options in 2025. Surfshark leads the pack with prices starting at just $2.19 per month, making it one of the cheapest VPNs available without sacrificing quality.
NordVPN provides excellent security features at competitive prices. It regularly appears on lists of both affordable and high-quality VPNs.
Private Internet Access (PIA) offers strong privacy protections at budget prices. Many users praise its balance of cost and performance.
CyberGhost and Ivacy VPN round out the top five affordable options. Both provide good value for cost-conscious users.
How do I choose a budget-friendly VPN that doesn’t compromise on security?
Look for VPNs with strong encryption standards (AES-256 is ideal) even at lower price points. This ensures your data stays protected.
Check for a clear no-logs policy. The best cheap VPNs still maintain strict privacy standards and avoid tracking user activities.
Verify the VPN includes kill switch protection. This feature cuts your internet if the VPN drops, preventing data leaks.
Consider providers that have undergone independent security audits. These reviews help confirm that budget services actually deliver on their security promises.
Which VPNs offer the best combination of price and performance?
Surfshark consistently ranks high for both affordability and speed. Users rarely notice slowdowns even when streaming or gaming.
Private Internet Access delivers excellent performance while maintaining some of the most competitive pricing in the industry. Their large server network helps maintain good speeds.
NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol provides impressive connection speeds without the high price of some premium services. The technology helps maintain performance even on distant servers.
CyberGhost optimizes servers specifically for streaming and torrenting. This focused approach helps maintain performance where it matters most to many users.
What are some reliable yet inexpensive VPN options for PC users?
PC users benefit from Surfshark’s unlimited device connections. This feature allows protection on all household computers under one affordable subscription.
NordVPN offers dedicated PC apps with advanced features like split tunneling. This lets users choose which programs use the VPN connection.
Private Internet Access provides open-source applications for Windows. This transparency helps build trust in their security practices.
CyberGhost’s user-friendly Windows interface makes it ideal for PC users new to VPNs. The simple design doesn’t sacrifice powerful protection features.
Can you recommend any low-cost VPNs with strong privacy policies?
Private Internet Access maintains a court-proven no-logs policy. Their claims have been tested in real legal situations without compromising user data.
Surfshark operates under privacy-friendly jurisdiction and has a clear no-logs commitment. Their policies have been independently audited for verification.
NordVPN runs on RAM-only servers that cannot store user data. This hardware approach strengthens their privacy protections beyond just policy.
CyberGhost publishes regular transparency reports. These documents provide insight into any data requests they receive and how they protect users.
How does the cost of Surfshark and Nord VPN compare against other inexpensive VPN providers?
Surfshark offers plans starting around $2.19 monthly, making it one of the most affordable options. This price point significantly undercuts many competitors.
NordVPN typically costs slightly more than Surfshark but less than premium providers like ExpressVPN. Their mid-range pricing reflects their balance of features and performance.
Both services offer better value than many budget VPNs when considering features provided. The cheapest options often lack important security tools.
Long-term subscriptions dramatically reduce monthly costs for both services. Two-year plans offer the best value but require upfront payment.
Special promotions frequently drop prices even lower, especially during holiday sales. Smart shoppers can find deals that reduce costs by 70% or more.
