Cheapest VPN comparison. What is the best cheap VPN?
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Finding a cheap VPN can be challenging, especially when privacy and security are priorities. While affordable options may seem appealing, they don’t always meet quality standards or deliver the features needed for a good user experience.
In this article, I’ve singled out VPN services that offer the best value for those on a budget. After evaluating 41 services, I’ve narrowed it down to 5 VPNs that strike the best balance between cost and quality. These VPNs prove you don’t need to overspend to get the best online privacy and performance you can count on.
When evaluating VPNs, I consider all the important features a VPN should offer. At Cybernews, we test VPNs for various use cases, including streaming (accessing geo-restricted services), gaming, and security and privacy features. We also test connection speeds during browsing, streaming, and downloading.
Based on these findings, I provide recommendations to help you make informed decisions. Since this topic focuses on price, I also include a detailed price comparison of all the VPNs we tested to ensure you get the best value for your needs.
Note: I’m looking at each provider's lowest-cost plans to find the best deals, focusing on 1-year and 2-year subscriptions. For users seeking short-term options, see our separate guide to monthly VPNs.
My top 3 recommended cheap VPNs – short overview
- Surfshark – cheap VPN from $1.99 a month on a 2-year + 4-month plan, Surfshark delivers a perfect blend of affordability and powerful features. Offering unlimited device connections, excellent streaming support, and standout speeds, Surfshark is a top choice for those wanting premium performance on a budget. Plus, there’s a 30-day refund policy, so you can test it out with peace of mind.
- NordVPN – the best premium VPN for value and reliability. At $2.99 per month for a 2-year + 3-month plan, NordVPN provides excellent value with top-tier security, speed, and streaming capabilities. Though not the cheapest, its price is mid-range, especially compared to pricier options like ExpressVPN. With a vast server network, high streaming performance, and extras like a password manager and cloud storage in higher plans, NordVPN is ideal for those seeking a reliable, feature-rich VPN with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Bitdefender VPN is a great budget VPN for privacy-focused users. Pricing starts at just $2.92 per month or $34.99 per year, making it one of the most affordable options for users prioritizing security. Strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy are ideal for those focused on privacy rather than streaming. While it has limited streaming capabilities, Bitdefender VPN safeguards your online presence. A 30-day refund policy is included for added peace of mind.
In my opinion, a cheap VPN provider doesn’t necessarily mean poor service. When looking at the cheapest providers, I always make sure they employ AES-256 or ChaCha20 encryption ciphers. A huge bonus is if they offer additional security features like a kill switch or split tunnelling. Lastly, it’s important to me that the provider complies with a no-logs policy to protect my privacy online.
That’s why my go-to provider is Surfshark. With robust encryption and a bunch of security features, I trust this provider to protect my online activities at the fraction of the cost.
Cheapest VPNs comparison
Below is our top selection of affordable VPNs, with a price comparison across different plans. This table focuses on the lowest-tier plans offered by each provider, which I discuss in detail throughout this article:
| VPN provider | 1-month plan | 1-year plans | 2-year plan |
| Surfshark | $15.45 | $47.84 | $55.72 + 4 months free |
| NordVPN | $12.99 | $68.85 | $80.73 + 3 months free |
| Bitdefender VPN | $6.99 | $39.99 | N/A |
| IPVanish | $12.99 | $39.99 | $52.56 |
| PureVPN | 12.95 | $47.95 | $58.05 + 3 months free |
It is important to note that currently, several VPN providers are offering special deals that include additional free months with their plans:
- Surfshark. With the 2-year plan, Surfshark offers an extra 4 months free, totaling 28 months of service.
- NordVPN. Depending on the chosen package, NordVPN provides up to 3 extra months free on its 2-year plans.
- PureVPN. Similarly to the above, PureVPN offers 3 extra months for its 2-year plans.
Cheapest VPNs’ detailed overview
Here’s a look at five VPNs that are solid on security and easy on your wallet.
1. Surfshark – the best cheap VPN in 2024
| Servers/countries: | 3200 servers in 100 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | Unlimited |
| Money-back guarantee: | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Current deal: | Cyber Monday! Now up to 87% OFF Surfshark + 4 months FREE |
Surfshark is my most recommended cheap VPN, with plans starting at $1.99/month. It offers an excellent balance of affordability and robust features, including unlimited device connections on a single subscription – fantastic for users with multiple devices or families. While it costs slightly more than Bitdefender VPN, Surfshark justifies the difference with reliable speeds, effective streaming support, and additional privacy features.
Surfshark performs excellently in speed tests, maintaining solid performance across various server locations, with a 86% average internet speed retention rate. This reliability is especially beneficial for streaming, where Surfshark really shines. In my own experience, it successfully unblocked popular platforms like Netflix and Disney+, giving access to a wide range of geo-restricted content. Furthermore, features like Smart DNS add extra convenience for streaming on devices that don’t typically support VPN apps.
Surfshark also includes additional privacy and security features often found only in pricier VPNs, such as a strict no-logs policy, AES-256 encryption, and built-in ad and malware blocking.
Overall, Surfshark’s mix of affordability, reliable performance, and extensive features makes it a robust and versatile option for anyone seeking a well-rounded VPN without overspending. While some providers may offer slightly cheaper monthly rates, Surfshark’s balance of quality and value places it at the top of the list for the best cheap VPNs.
2. NordVPN – ultra-fast best value VPN
| Servers/countries: | 6800 servers in 111 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | 10 |
| Money-back guarantee: | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Current deal: | Cyber Monday! Get 74% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
While not the cheapest option, starting at $2.99/month, NordVPN is a top choice for those willing to invest a bit more for advanced security features and reliable performance. NordVPN is a top pick due to its robust encryption and extra privacy features like Double VPN and Onion over VPN. These features, combined with strong streaming capabilities and consistent speeds, make NordVPN ideal for users who value security and performance without compromise.
In our experience testing NordVPN, its speed stood out as a highlight. We noticed consistently smooth streaming on major platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video without buffering issues. With over 6800 servers in 111 countries, NordVPN offers extensive global coverage, making it a superior choice for users seeking a wide range of unblocking options compared to VPNs like IPVanish or Bitdefender VPN, which have more limited streaming support.
A notable advantage is NordVPN’s no-logs policy, verified by an independent audit, which gives users added confidence in their privacy. Additionally, the provider is based in Panama, a jurisdiction known for strong data privacy, unlike some VPNs that operate within the Five, Nine, or Fourteen Eyes alliances (such as IPVanish, based in the US).
On the downside, it is slightly higher priced compared to Surfshark, especially for users who don’t need advanced security tools like the Dark Web Monitor or Double VPN. However, if you prioritize privacy and advanced features in a VPN, NordVPN is an exceptionally reliable choice.
3. Bitdefender VPN – security-focused cheap VPN
| Servers/countries: | 4000 servers in 53 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | 10 |
| Money-back guarantee: | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Current deal: | Cyber Monday! Get up to 50% OFF Bitdefender VPN |
Bitdefender VPN stands out for users looking for essential privacy at an affordable starting price of $2.92/month, making it one of the cheapest VPNs on the market. It’s ideal for users focused on security without the need for high-speed streaming or advanced functionality, making it the top pick for straightforward, budget-friendly VPN protection.
During testing, Bitdefender VPN’s speed was adequate for general browsing, but when I tested it, Bitdefender fell short for streaming. Unlike Surfshark and NordVPN, which consistently bypassed geo-restrictions on major platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, Bitdefender VPN struggles with unblocking most streaming services. This limitation makes it a less versatile choice for users interested in global media access.
Although it doesn’t include Surfshark's or NordVPN's streaming capabilities, Bitdefender offers robust privacy features for everyday browsing, such as AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy, ensuring that user data is kept private. However, it lacks some advanced privacy tools found in NordVPN, such as the Dark Web Monitor or Double VPN, which may appeal to those who want a more robust security setup.
Bitdefender VPN’s network consists of servers in only about 53 countries. This smaller network may impact connection speeds and availability, especially for users in distant locations. Compared to IPVanish, which offers 4000 servers across 53 countries, Bitdefender’s reach is notably smaller, though it remains a reliable choice for secure browsing within its coverage area.
For those focused on basic privacy at a reasonable price, Bitdefender VPN is a solid option. However, for streaming, advanced features, and more comprehensive server coverage, Surfshark and NordVPN provide a better overall experience for slightly higher costs.
4. IPVanish – inexpensive VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections
| Servers/countries: | 2400 servers in 100 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | Unlimited |
| Money-back guarantee: | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Current deal: | Cyber Monday! Now up to 83% OFF IPVanish |
IPVanish offers good value, particularly with its unlimited device connections, making it a good choice for individuals with many devices or large households. Its competitive pricing, starting at $2.19/month, positions it as an affordable option for general usage. However, IPVanish may not fully match the trust levels of more expensive VPNs like NordVPN, mainly because of its US jurisdiction. The United States is part of the Five Eyes alliance, which imposes stringent data retention laws, potentially affecting privacy-focused users.
Despite being based in the US, IPVanish upholds its no-logs policy, confirmed by independent audits, which helps to ensure that user data remains confidential and untraceable. It also employs robust AES-256 encryption, providing a strong layer of security. These measures make IPVanish a strong contender in the VPN market, balancing cost with a commitment to user privacy and security.
In our testing, IPVanish’s speeds held up pretty well, especially when using the WireGuard protocol, which really boosted streaming performance. However, while streaming Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ was smooth and relatively fast, during my own testing, I hit some hiccups when trying to access Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. So, while IPVanish can handle unblocking some popular streaming platforms, it’s not a guaranteed ticket to every international library out there.
Overall, IPVanish offers a well-rounded VPN solution that balances performance, security, and cost-effectiveness, making it a compelling choice for users looking to enhance their internet privacy and unlock the full potential of their online experience.
5. PureVPN – cheap VPN service with continuous auditing
| Servers/countries: | 6000 servers in 65 countries |
| Simultaneous connections: | 10 |
| Money-back guarantee: | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Current deal: | Cyber Monday! Now 83% OFF PureVPN + 3 FREE months |
Starting at $2.14/month, PureVPN offers a range of subscription plans to cater to different user needs. The Standard plan provides essential VPN services, while the Plus and Max plans include additional features like a secure password manager and personal privacy manager, respectively. Pricing varies based on the subscription length and selected plan, with longer commitments offering more cost-effective rates.
On the security front, PureVPN uses 256-bit encryption, ensuring robust data protection. Features like a kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection add further safeguards, keeping user information private even if the VPN connection drops. Additionally, PureVPN’s no-logs assessment shows a genuine commitment to transparency, reinforcing user trust.
If you’re mainly after a VPN for standard streaming, such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer, or basic browsing, PureVPN holds up pretty well. But if you’re looking to access a wider variety of global content across different platforms, you might run into some limitations here and there. In my own experience, PureVPN wasn’t as reliable for tougher streaming sites like Amazon Prime Video and Disney+, where it struggled to bypass geo-blocks, leading to a few frustrating dead ends.
PureVPN combines solid security features with user-friendly functionality, making it a practical option for those focused on privacy and straightforward streaming.
How we selected the best cheap VPNs
We prioritized privacy, security, additional features, and performance when evaluating the best affordable VPNs. The following list notes the key aspects we focused on to ensure each VPN could meet a wide range of user needs while maintaining quality and affordability:
- Privacy and security standards (40%). The top priority is data protection, evaluating each VPN’s no-logs policy and encryption of choice. Only providers with verified privacy practices and up-to-date security protocols (like OpenVPN and WireGuard) made the cut. We also favor VPNs based outside the Five, Nine, and Fourteen Eyes alliances and with extra features like DNS leak protection and a kill switch.
- Performance and practicality (30%). We rigorously tested each VPN across various practical use cases to assess speed, reliability, and ease of use. This included tests for streaming and gaming, where latency and speed consistency are crucial. We also ran DNS leak tests to ensure that IP and DNS information remained secure, and we evaluated the VPN’s ability to unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. To ensure a thorough assessment, we examined performance across different devices and platforms.
- Additional features and company reputation (30%). Beyond core VPN features, we considered additional tools that contribute to an enhanced online experience. Some VPNs offer built-in ad blockers, threat protection, and malware blocking within their base plans, which can be beneficial for users looking to avoid third-party ads, trackers, and malicious websites. Furthermore, company reputation played a significant role in our selection. We considered each VPN’s standing in the industry, checking for past security incidents or leaks.
In the end, these criteria helped us identify the most affordable VPNs that don’t compromise on quality, privacy, or performance. Each VPN on our list meets a high standard for user protection, and our tests verified that they can support diverse online activities effectively and efficiently.
1-year plan VPNs price comparison
Based on the VPN price chart below, starting with the least expensive options, TotalVPN at $19.00/month, offers the cheapest yearly VPN rate, but it lags behind on the privacy and security front compared to recommended VPNs on my list. Unlike the recommended VPNs, TotalVPN has yet to undergo an independent audit and has inferior server hardware, such as a lack of RAM-only servers. Also, TotalVPN has a less robust server network, which is essential for high speed and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions effectively and avoid CAPTCHAS.
In contrast, VPNs like Surfshark and NordVPN not only offer competitive VPN yearly costs but also include far superior security features, such as RAM-only servers, AES-256 encryption, audited no-logs policies, and leak protection. These features are crucial for users seeking robust online privacy and are often lacking in the cheaper options like TotalVPN.
Additionally, Surfshark and NordVPN's effectiveness in unblocking major streaming services like Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video makes them useful for accessing media content from various regions. Their extensive server networks globally help maintain fast and reliable connections essential for a smooth streaming experience.
Services like Bitdefender VPN, PureVPN, and IPVanish offer a balance of cost and performance, providing solid security enhancements, respectable speeds, and sufficient server coverage.
At the higher end, some VPNs are more expensive than those included in the list, but their higher prices do not necessarily equate to better value for the average user. For example, even though NordVPN’s yearly price is slightly above the average VPN price ($68.65 compared to $60.00), NordVPN justifies its VPN yearly cost through a stellar reputation for security, extensive server availability, and extra features like double VPN and onion over VPN services, which may not be available with cheaper alternatives.
The VPNs selected for inclusion in the list offer a blend of affordability, extensive features, robust security, and reliable customer support, creating a well-rounded service offering.
2-year plan VPNs price comparison
When it comes to long-term subscriptions, the cheapest plans align with my list, including PureVPN, IPVanish, and Surfshark, as highlighted in the article. That said, similarly to the yearly plan, even though NordVPN’s two-year plan is priced slightly above the average, its reputation and high-quality service make it an excellent value.
For example, NordVPN outperforms TunnelBear with its high-speed NordLynx protocol, optimized for faster and more stable connections, making it ideal for streaming. Additionally, NordVPN’s larger server network, with over 6800 servers worldwide, enables better streaming access and reduces buffering.
Most importantly, opting for a long-term plan offers substantial savings over purchasing a one-year plan.
We spare no effort to test the products & their features. All information is gathered by our in-house research team & fact-checked by our team of experts. Discover the ins and outs of our testing procedures.
Final thoughts
In summary, a quality VPN doesn’t have to break the bank, and several affordable options deliver excellent security and performance. Many top providers also offer generous money-back guarantees or free trials, so you can try out their features without committing right away.
If you want the best value, my top choice is Surfshark. It combines speed, robust security, and the convenience of unlimited device connections. Plus, you can test it risk-free with its 7-day mobile free trial or the 30-day refund policy on all plans, ensuring a seamless, worry-free experience.
FAQ
What is the average price of a good VPN?
Average VPN price is highly impacted by the types of plan you choose, with longer multi-year plans having the best price. The average price of a VPN with a 1-year subscription plan is around $60 or around $5 a month. 2-years plan average cost is $75 paying upfront or $3.1 per month.
Can I find a reliable cheap VPN?
Yes. For example, Surfshark is a great budget-friendly VPN that combines quality and affordability. With unlimited device connections, AES-256 encryption, and a strict no-logs policy, it’s ideal for users needing strong security across multiple devices without overspending.
What is the best cheap VPN for security and privacy?
NordVPN is ideal for budget-conscious users who prioritize security and privacy. It offers AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and independent audits, ensuring solid protection at a reasonable price.
What is a good VPN for streaming and privacy?
Surfshark is ideal for streaming and privacy on a budget. It unblocks popular services like Netflix and Disney+, offers unlimited devices, and includes extra privacy tools like a kill switch and ad blocker.
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