It does not have to cost the earth to enjoy the numerous benefits that a Virtual Private Network offers. For under $3 per month, you can subscribe to a service and take on many benefits. Here, we are looking at some of the best cheap VPN providers.
Before going any further, we would like to point out that we are not ranking the VPN providers from the cheapest to the more expensive, or vice-versa. While we have considered the price, we have also considered what that provider offers.
This means the cheapest might not necessarily come out on top.
So, let us look at whom we consider the top cheap VPN providers on the market.
Our Choice of the Top Cheap VPN Providers
There are a number of affordable cheap Virtual Private Network providers out there but we have chosen nine that we think offer great plans with superb features, without breaking the bank.
We have chosen the selection based on price and what the provider offers for what you pay. We have also taken into account the features and benefits available for the price.
All offer good privacy and security tools, great performance, and support for a wide range of devices.
1. Surfshark
Surfshark offers a 24-month plan that comes in at under $2.5 per month when you pay upfront, billed every year. Free trials are available on limited devices and all plans are offered with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
The provider offers all the tools you would expect from the best cheap VPN, including the ability for users to mask their IP addresses and take on one from a server from the provider.
Surfshark comes with AES-256 GCM encryption. This puts a virtual tunnel between the device of the user and the internet ensuring that personal data remains safe.
Surfshark offers a choice of secure protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec. In addition, the provider comes with a Multi-hop feature. Along with this, the provider states that users can, in some cases, improve the speed of the connection and this is thanks to the newest WireGuard protocol, oriented toward better performance.
You will also be able to use a NoBorders mode, as they believe everyone should be able to explore the internet freely and without any restrictions. For instance, in countries such as China and Russia where sites and apps such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram are blocked.
The provider encourages anyone who wants to use the VPN service in a particular country to contact them via live chat for help.
We believe Surfshark deserves a place among the best cheap VPN providers out there due to offering affordable plans with superb features.
Anyone who values privacy will enjoy the “Camouflage” mode that Surfshark offers. This functionality ensures that even the ISP cannot spy on you when connected to one of the servers offered by Surfshark.
To top it off, all plans Surfshark provides have what’s called CleanWeb, allowing users to surf the web without ads, malware, and phishing worries.
Finally, the provider supports a wide range of devices and allows for unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account, making it the best VPN in this regard.
- Value for money
- Extremely cheap prices
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Easy-to-use applications
- 24/7 client support
- Very good security
- Unlimited devices
- Speed
- Stability issues
Enjoy Surfshark from 2.49$/month >
2. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is another worthy contender on our best cheap VPN list, offering a three-year plan paid upfront that comes in at a little over $2 per month, plus THREE months FREE.
The provider offers more than 15 years of experience packaged up in plans, allowing users to bypass any geo-restrictions and censorship along with remaining secure online.
Additionally, there is built-in protection against malicious websites, trackers, and ads.
CyberGhost offers access to 7,400 servers, with servers having the highest possible speed, along with unlimited traffic and bandwidth.
For added security, the provider offers an automatic Kill-switch, DNS/IP leak protection, WireGuard support, and even NoSpy servers independently operated by CyberGhost itself.
They offer subscribers the tools needed to unblock streaming services, including US Netflix. The provider makes it easy to gain access to streaming websites and portals at just the touch of a button, offering one-click support for Netflix, YouTube, BBC iPlayer, HBO, and dozens of platforms.
Along with this, the VPN can be used to get a new IP address to play games online that are region-blocked, along with making savings on hotel rooms and flights.
The provider also offers apps for many devices with apps being easy to use, allowing for up to seven connections simultaneously. Best of all – it has a strict no-logging policy backed up by transparency reports published every 3 months.
- Cheap 3-year plan
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- Dedicated torrenting/streaming servers
- Really good client support
- No-logging policy
- 7 simultaneous connections
- Does not work in China
- Can be slow at times
Enjoy CyberGhost from 2.15$/month >
3. NordVPN
NordVPN is another respected name on our list of the best cheap VPN providers, offering plans that come in at under $4 per month when paid up-front.
The provider offers apps for a wide range of devices, with all plans packed with plenty of features. Furthermore, NordVPN comes with CyberSec, which is an ad-blocker, allowing users to protect themselves against malware and malicious websites.
Moreover, you get military-grade AES-256 encryption, with support for numerous protocols, such as OpenVPN, NordLynx, and IKEv2/IP Sec. The provider offers users access to 5,200+ servers in 60 countries worldwide.
We like the addition of the aforementioned NordLynx protocol. It’s based on WireGuard and it’s here for some serious performance improvements. This makes NordVPN almost as fast as ExpressVPN, for example, which is already the fastest VPN.
Another feature offered is SmartPlay technology. This technology provides access to some of the biggest streaming platforms online without the subscriber having to take additional steps.
All plans come with unlimited bandwidth and speed, while the provider offers support for torrent software with dedicated IPs and servers for P2P sharing. The provider takes anonymity very seriously with a strict no-logging policy (audited by PwC), making it a great addition to our best cheap VPN providers list.
NordVPN also offers a feature called Double VPN for twice the privacy, which means users take advantage of double the encryption to safeguard against cyber threats and online tracking.
Needless to say, this is one of the best cheapest VPN providers on the market.
- Double VPN
- Strict no-log policy
- 5,200+ servers
- Servers optimized for torrenting
- Easy-to-use application
- Expensive short-term plans
Enjoy NordVPN from 3.71$/month >
4. VeePN
VeePN offers a range of plans with the cheapest of them coming in at under $2 per month when paying for a five-year plan upfront.
The provider offers access to 2,500 servers in 50 locations around the world, which we think is more than enough for whatever purpose. Servers offer unlimited bandwidth, but the speed is average – or below average in some situations.
This allows users to take full advantage of streaming in HD without stuttering or restrictions. VeePN holds servers privately, which is yet another great thing about it.
They also offer plenty of security features for users to keep data safe online. Along with users being able to mask the IP address of a device, they have the security of DNS leak protection and military-grade encryption.
Other benefits offered by the provider include a Kill Switch to disconnect from the internet if you lose a VPN connection and a strict no-logging policy.
So, you combine all of the aforementioned features with a range of apps available for many devices, and VeePN is a good choice among the best cheap VPN providers out there.
- 10 simultaneous connections
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Stable connections
- 2,500+ servers
- Support is slow to answer
- Average speeds
- Doesn’t work with Netflix
Enjoy VeePN from 1,67$/month >
5. ZenMate
ZenMate offers advanced security along with a guaranteed no-logging policy that should keep anyone who considers anonymity a big issue pleased. And you know what? You can get it at just below $2 per month with a 3-year plan, where you get THREE months absolutely FREE!
The provider offers access to 4,000 servers located in 74 countries around the world. Moreover, servers are plenty fast. Whether you want to unblock websites such as US Netflix to stream content in HD or you want a VPN for protection online, ZenMate is well worth considering.
ZenMate supports numerous devices with apps that are easy to install. Also, you can connect an unlimited number of devices with a single account, which is super useful.
They also take pride in the fact that no logs are collected. 360-degree protection is offered and one click is all it takes to connect to one of the servers. All of the above ensures that this cheap VPN is worth considering.
- Works with Netflix
- Many devices supported
- Kill-Switch fonctionality
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Free version
- Located in Germany (14 Eyes)
- Slow speeds
Enjoy ZenMate from 1,51$/month >
6. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN makes it onto our list and the provider claims to be the “fastest-growing provider worldwide”.
For just a few dollars per month, you can unblock content that is geo-restricted. Not only this, but users can do it easily and quickly in just a few clicks. Server speeds are fast and reliable.
This means no buffering or waiting for a connection. PrivateVPN offers unlimited speed and bandwidth. This makes the provider a great choice for streaming videos in HD.
PrivateVPN supports numerous devices. The provider offers a one-click set-up for Windows PC, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. It allows for up to six simultaneous connections at the same time, so other family members can use the apps.
The provider offers a military-grade 256-bit encryption shield to keep your data safe and secure from hackers. Of course, the same applies to ISPs and even the government that won’t be able to snoop around your online activities. Along with this, PrivateVPN offers IPv6 leak protection, which is super useful.
This ensures that data is safe even in the event that the VPN connection drops.
PrivateVPN supports anonymous torrenting and is P2P friendly. The provider also offers at least one open port, something that is essential when using torrents or enjoying P2P file-sharing activities in general.
- Easy to install and use
- Torrenting is allowed
- Works for Netflix US/UK
- 50+ countries covered
- Inconsistent speeds
- 14 Eyes jurisdiction
- Small server network
Enjoy PrivateVPN from 2$/month >
7. PureVPN
PureVPN is another great addition to our list of the top cheap VPN providers. The provider claims to be among the fastest VPN services.
The provider is a good choice whether you want to unblock and stream content, remain secure online, share files on torrent sites, or simply want to become anonymous online.
PureVPN includes P2P protection in plans. This is by way of an add-on that can identify and block malware and viruses in files that are downloaded.
They are not required to store any data, so it is a great choice for anyone who takes privacy very seriously. The provider offers encryption for data security along with an Internet Kill Switch, just in case you lose a connection to the VPN server.
Split tunneling is available, so users can choose which data to allow through the ISP and VPN tunnel.
PureVPN offers access to thousands of servers from around the world, with servers dedicated to offering superb speeds. There are no data limits, along with unlimited bandwidth, so you do not have to worry about stuttering when streaming content in HD.
The provider makes connecting to a server on the most popular devices very easy in 60 seconds with just a single click. There is no coding or having to undergo a complex setup.
Apps are available for a wide range of devices including Windows, Mac, and Android, iOS, Routers, Amazon Firestick, Now TV Box, Xbox, and more.
- Very cheap plans
- Works on most devices
- Lots of servers and countries covered
- Torrenting is allowed
- Speeds are very inconsistent
- DNS Leaks
Enjoy PureVPN from 1,99$/month >
8. Trust Zone
Trust.Zone is branded as the “truly anonymous” VPN. Users are able to surf the internet anonymously along with stopping ISPs from tracking. Plus, benefit from privacy all-around.
The provider has no restrictions on P2P traffic. Both unlimited speed and bandwidth are offered. Trust.Zone is a good provider among our list of the best cheap VPN providers for streaming.
Trust.Zone is also a good choice for anyone who wants to remain completely anonymous. The provider is located outside of the 14 Eyes Countries in Seychelles. This means no logging or even asking for any personal details.
To conclude, it has thousands of servers based around the world, including many servers in states around the USA and Europe. Of course, this is great for bypassing geo-restricitons and enjoying stable connections from anywhere in the world.
- Strong encryption and security
- Torrenting allowed
- Really affordable
- Free trial available
- Does not support that many devices
- Client support
- Speeds
Enjoy Trust.Zone from 2,33$/month >
9. Ivacy VPN
Ivacy VPN is another provider that will not break the bank allowing users to surf the internet and web anonymously at breath-taking speeds. Plus, the provider offers unlimited bandwidth.
This is perfect when streaming HD content and you want to watch buffer-free content without any speed throttling.
The provider offers access to foreign content that is blocked due to geo-restrictions. Along with supporting numerous devices and up to five simultaneous connections at the same time.
For safety and security, Ivacy VPN uses 256-bit encryption. This ensures that users remain secure online whether connected at home or on public Wi-Fi.
At just about $2 per month when taking out a two-year plan, the provider deserves a place among the best cheap VPN providers, offering a large range of features.
Features include virus protection, smart connect, Internet Kill Switch, P2P support, support for Kodi, and advanced protocols.
To top it off, Ivacy VPN offers IPv6 leak protection ensuring third parties cannot keep a track of online activities. The provider also protects against DNS leaks by encrypting your connection along with various protocols, including IKEV, L2TP, and TCP.
- Really cheap pricing
- Easy to install and use
- 5 simultaneous connections
- Lots of VPN protocols
- Unclear money-back guarantee
- Five Eyes jurisdiction
- Cannot unblock Netflix
- Number of servers
Enjoy Ivacy VPN from 1,99$/month >
Uses of a VPN
There are many uses of a Virtual Private Network so it can be a very valuable tool for anyone that spends time online.
Here, we take a close look at some of the popular ways cheap VPN providers can be used. The best thing about taking out a subscription is that users can take full advantage of any or all of the benefits, as and when needed.
Remaining Secure Online
One of the biggest advantages of a VPN is its ability to keep you safe online when browsing the internet.
Many people today choose to undertake banking and shopping online. Both of these involve debit and credit card numbers along with bank account numbers. Without a Virtual Private Network, you might as well have someone standing watching you type in your numbers over your shoulder.
With a VPN installed, your personal details will remain safe and secure. You connect to one of the servers offered by the provider and a virtual tunnel is placed between the internet and your computer.
Any data you enter is encrypted before it goes out onto the World Wide Web. This includes credit and debit card information along with bank details. If anyone should come across your information, they will be unable to read it.
The information is only decrypted once it reaches its destination.
Browsing Anonymously
It might come as a surprise to you to find out that even your ISP can spy on what you are doing online. If you reside in a country with high censorship and stream banned content in the country, your ISP can find out.
This could result in a fine, your internet being reduced or stopped, and/or perhaps even a day in court.
Along with providing protection by masking your IP address and providing you with an alternate one, a VPN helps to provide protection. This allows you to speak freely online and simply enjoy a greater degree of online freedom.
In certain countries, saying the wrong thing or reporting the wrong information on social media and forums can lead to big trouble. In some countries, it can lead to huge fines and even spending time in jail.
With one of the cheapest VPN we’ve listed, you remain anonymous ALL the time.
Overcoming Restricted Content
A VPN comes in very handy if you have subscribed to streaming platforms such as Netflix and then go on a trip abroad. Netflix is not available in all countries. Even those where it is available, you will not be able to connect to the content from your country.
The content you can see depends on your IP address as all countries have a range of IP addresses. When you visit Netflix or another streaming portal or website, your IP address is picked up and you are directed to the local site.
To get around this, you can sign up with one of the cheap VPN providers on our list. Once signed up, connect to a server to take on an IP address in the country of your choice. By doing so, you can overcome the restrictions.
This leaves you free to stream any content or view any website wherever you are in the world.
This not only applies to watching and streaming Netflix but also to any streaming platform, website, or apps that are banned in certain countries.
Saving Money
It is even possible to save money by using a Virtual Private Network when booking hotel rooms, car rental, and flights online. The prices shown on comparison websites depend on your IP address and your location.
Therefore, if you connect to a server in a state or country where the cost of living is low, you should be offered cheaper quotes.
Downloading Torrents Safely
Another way to use a VPN is for torrenting. Torrenting in itself is not illegal, providing you are not downloading copyrighted material. Your ISP keeps a track of what you do online and they can find out if you are downloading copyrighted material online. We do NOT condone doing this even with a VPN.
The first course of action is to send out a warning.
If you continue downloading this way, they may restrict or stop your internet service. In the worst case, you could end up with a fine or be handed a jail sentence. With a VPN, that’s not possible. It will encrypt your connection and make it unreadable to your ISP, so it won’t be able to tell what you’re doing or downloading online.
A Quick Guide to Using a VPN
So, once you have chosen one of the best cheap VPN providers from our list, you can check out our quick guide below to find out how simple it is to mask your own IP.
- Sign up with the provider of your choice.
- Choose a plan, either paid month by month or yearly, the latter being the cheapest option.
- Choose, download and install apps for devices.
- Launch the app on your device and sign in.
- Choose a server from the list and connect to that server.
You now have the benefit of having an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. Along with this, your IP address is masked and you take on one from the server to which you connected.
You can now log in to any restricted website, and browse the internet knowing you have all the security you need. Alternatively, you can visit torrent websites with peace of mind that the ISP will not be able to watch your movements online.
To Summarize
We have shown you some of the top cheap VPN providers out there. All offer a great level of service and numerous benefits without breaking the bank. Moreover, they offer what is needed to mask your IP address and take on one from a server anywhere in the world.
This allows you to remain anonymous online along with gaining access to cheaper prices of flight tickets/car rentals/hotel rooms and overcoming geo-restrictions.
A plan also puts a virtual tunnel in place in which all your information travels down and is encrypted before going out onto the internet. This ensures it is kept safe from hackers and prying eyes, including your ISP.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up with one of our chosen cheapest VPN providers and enjoy all the benefits offered by a Virtual Private Network!
FAQ
? What is the best cheap VPN?
In our opinion, the best cheap VPN at the moment is Surfshark. With this provider, you will have great quality service for only $ 2.49/month.
Right after, we recommend CyberGhost and NordVPN that are a little more expensive per month, but also offer an excellent VPN service.
❓ Is getting a VPN worth it?
It depends on your needs but in many cases, the answer is YES!
Whether it’s to improve your online security, unblock content and geo-restricted streaming platforms, or download torrents anonymously, having a VPN by your side is a really good thing!
? Can I pay for a VPN monthly?
Obviously, but be aware that by doing this you will not get the cheapest VPN. Indeed, to get the best possible prices, you will have to commit to 1, 2, or even 3 years.
? Is there a free unlimited VPN?
It would be wonderful but realistically it is clearly not possible. There is simply no completely free and unlimited VPN in terms of functionality. If you don’t want to go broke, you should go for a cheap VPN like Surfshark or CyberGhost.
Flo is the founder of the-bestvpn.com. Really concerned about security on internet, he decided to create this website in order to help everyone find the best VPN. He’s got a Business School background and now is 100% dedicated to keeping his website alive.
I will never understand why people try to find cheap VPN : it’s more important to find an effective one, rather than spending money on a VPN that doesn’t work ! Sure that some suppliers only want to make money, but for others, it’s really good solutions !!
Free VPNs is really not advisable. It’s ok to look for cheap ones, but be carful ! These programs are really interesting, they do not work at all except to take our personal data and sell it.
So you have to consider the VPN as a tool, that helps you protect your identity on the internet, but to do so you have to pay the price (which is by the way low !).
Finding a cheap VPN is possible : some solutions have really good prices, like SurfShark. but be carefull : quality has a price !
I’m looking for a cheap VPN to install on my computer and on my phone. I know that this is an important tool, so I don’t want to choose a free one (I saw your article about it, and i would not feel confident with it). *
But i’m a student so I don’t have a lot of money to spend on this. If you have any tipp or any promotionnal code, or even if you know when some suppliers are making really good deals, please let me know, because I would be really interested !! Thanks again for you work on this blog and your help.
I suggest you opt for CyberGhost because there is a promotion on its 1 year subscription! (33$ / 2.75$/month)
No promo code is necessary to benefit from it.
Otherwise if you want an even cheaper offer (but a little less efficient), Surfshark also has an offer right now (promo code: sharkholidays19)