9 Best Cheapest VPNs (2024): Top Security on a Budget

Finding a VPN that balances quality and price can be challenging with so many available. Many providers advertise extremely low prices that look enticing. No one wants to go broke trying to stay safe online, but not all cheap VPNs can be trusted.

After my team and I tested 70+ cheap VPNs, I shortlisted the best-value VPNs to protect your online privacy. While there are a few cheaper VPNs (the average price in our list is under $3/month), our recommendations protect your data without compromising speed. All the budget-friendly VPNs on our list can securely stream popular platforms, like Netflix and Hulu, from anywhere and are compatible with all major devices.

CyberGhost is the clear winner and my go-to cheap VPN. It has top security features, optimized streaming, downloading, and gaming servers, and it's easy to use. It’s only $2.19/month for a long-term plan and comes with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. So, you can try CyberGhost for free for more than a month and get a refund if you're not 100% happy with it. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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Short on Time? Here Are the Best Cheap VPNs in 2024

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Best Cheap VPN Services — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. CyberGhost — A Cheap VPN That Makes It Easy To Secure Your Online Activity

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested December 2024

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

Protecting your privacy is easy with CyberGhost's intuitive interface — just click the large power button to instantly establish a secure connection. It uses the highest encryption level (AES 256-bit) and the gold-standard OpenVPN protocol, but you can also choose the speedy WireGuard. Plus, CyberGhost's kill switch reliably blocked our unprotected connection when switching servers during our tests. These servers also passed IPv6/DNS/WebRTC leak tests, showing the VPN can keep you safe online.

You can also use 'Best server location' to get the fastest server

Its specialty streaming, torrenting, and gaming servers make CyberGhost even more convenient to use. Currently, the gaming ones are only available on Windows. These locations are clearly labeled and continuously maintained for optimal performance. Its streaming servers can securely access platforms like BBC iPlayer and Disney+ from anywhere with nearly instant load times.

Although it’s budget-friendly, CyberGhost doesn’t compromise your connection speeds. On a 268.19Mbps connection, it dropped our speed by only 10% on nearby servers. Such fast speeds are ideal for watching Peacock, CTV, and ITVX in Ultra HD without buffering (UHD requires only 25Mbps). You can even use its split tunneling feature to get better speeds by leaving some traffic out of the VPN tunnel.

The one downside is that the short-term plan is a bit expensive and comes with a reduced refund period. However, CyberGhost offers excellent value with its long-term plan, which includes a 45-day money-back guarantee and up to 84% off. If you don’t like how it works, you can get a full refund via the 24/7 live chat feature. All plans also give you 7 simultaneous device connections.

Useful Features

• Privacy protection. CyberGhost uses a proven no-logs policy and RAM-based servers to prevent your private information, like browsing history, from falling into the wrong hands. Plus, it’s headquartered in Romania — outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances. That means it isn’t subjected to any data retention laws.
• NoSpy servers. These servers add another layer of privacy to your connection — they’re privately owned and maintained by CyberGhost to eliminate the risk of third-party interference. This is a better option for increased security than multi-hop servers, which always slow you down too much. But, they’re only available as an upgrade.
• CyberGhost Security Suite. Exclusively for Windows, this feature is a great addition to help you maintain your online privacy while protecting your device from malware. It includes a Security Updater to keep all your apps up to date. Available at $1 extra.
• Smart Rules menu. I use this functionality to customize my VPN experience. For example, you can set CyberGhost's Mac and Windows apps to auto-connect to the fastest server. You can also configure the VPN to connect right away when it detects a new WiFi network.
• Blocks malware. This cheap VPN includes Block Content, which prevents malicious sites and links from compromising your device.

2. Private Internet Access — Extensive Network for Safe Streaming on a Budget From Anywhere

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA’s global network provides plenty of options for high-quality, low-latency streaming using servers near you. You also get streaming-optimized servers in 11 countries (including the US, UK, and Australia). We tested several of PIA’s streaming servers and had no issues watching Netflix, SVT Play, and Videoland. It can securely access tons of top platforms from anywhere without interruptions.

It's easy to pick fast servers with latency on display in the app

For only $2.19/month, it’s impressive that it doesn’t limit how many devices you can connect at once. Plus, it offers a high level of customization, letting you tailor your connection with choices in encryption levels, kill switch types, and secure protocols (WireGuard and OpenVPN). For example, with OpenVPN, you can use 128-bit encryption for better streaming speeds and AES 256-bit for increased security.

These customizable features can be overwhelming to new users. However, apps come pre-configured, so you don’t need to tweak any settings to get started. Our speeds also remained consistently fast, averaging 237.59Mbps (an 8% reduction) when tapping the power button and connecting to nearby servers.

You can take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee and test all PIA’s features without risk. Plus, for an additional fee, you can incorporate PIA's antivirus into your subscription to get protection against malware. All plans include 24/7 live support, as well as advanced features like split tunneling and IPv6 leak protection.

Useful Features

• Solid torrenting VPN. Its port forwarding feature lets you directly connect with seeders and get faster download speeds. Plus, it offers MACE, which blocks malware and ads while you torrent (or browse online).
• Connection automation. Create your own rules for when the VPN automatically kicks in to protect you. Bind it to specific networks or general network types.
• Privacy protection. Like CyberGhost, PIA uses RAM-based servers, and a proven no-logs policy to keep your data private.
• Multi-hop and obfuscation. This feature passes your data through 2 servers for extra protection. Since one of the servers is a proxy, it doesn’t slow your speeds as much. When enabled, it also disguises your encrypted connection as regular HTTPS traffic. This makes it much tougher for restrictive networks to block your secure connection.

3. NordVPN — Low-Cost VPN With Fast Speeds to Stream and Game Without Delays

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN was the fastest wallet-friendly VPN we tested. Using its in-house NordLynx protocol, we tested nearby servers, and speeds dropped by an unnoticeable 9% — from a connection of 265.37Mbps. Click the Quick Connect to have NordVPN automatically connect you to the fastest server based on your network. This makes it possible to access popular platforms, like Hulu, and stream in great quality form anywhere.

A 10-20% speed dip on short-distance servers is typical for top VPNs

Despite its affordable price, NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature blows other VPN ad/malware/tracker blockers out of the water. It prevented all of the annoying ads I usually encounter when visiting allrecipes.com and speedtest.net. Most ad blockers I’ve used are less effective and still let a couple of popups slip through. It works even when the VPN is not connected.

All pans include 10 simultaneous device connections and all of NordVPN’s most advanced features like split tunneling. The biggest downside is that these cheap prices only apply for first-time subscribers — upon renewal, you end up paying about double.

You can try NordVPN risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you find it’s not for you, it’s simple to claim a refund — just message customer support via 24/7 live chat. Plus, if you’re a journalist in Ukraine, you can get it completely free by simply providing a screenshot of your credentials.

Useful Features

• Meshnet. This feature lets you establish secure connections between multiple devices. It’s especially helpful for safe file sharing and makes it possible to overcome the Netflix password-sharing ban.
• Choice of specialty servers. These include Double VPN servers for added encryption, Onion Over VPN servers for seamless integration with the Tor network, and P2P servers optimized for fast torrenting. It also offers obfuscated servers that you can use to conceal your VPN traffic from detection on restrictive networks.
• Strong security and privacy. NordVPN offers AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IPv6/WebRTC leak protection. It also follows a strict, independently-audited no-logs policy.
• Dark Web Monitor. This feature scans the dark web for any traces of your credentials, such as email addresses, and alerts you if any are found.

4. Surfshark — Great Value VPN To Protect an Unlimited Number of Devices

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

With Surfshark, you can connect as many devices as you want for just $1.99/month with the long-term option. We tested this capability by connecting multiple devices simultaneously, including 6 smartphones and 5 laptops. Our connection remained stable testing servers in the UK and France, with an average download speed reduction of only 13.5%.

The live-stream loaded instantly with Surfshark

During testing, we found that Surfshark works reliably with most streaming platforms, so we could use its fast speeds well. It can securely access Netflix, Apple TV+, and Max and stream without buffering. However, it doesn’t always work with Amazon Prime Video. CyberGhost is a better option for that platform thanks to its streaming servers.

Unfortunately, Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, a member of the 9 Eyes Alliances group. However, Surfshark follows a Deloitte-verified no-logs policy and uses memory-erasing servers, so all data is kept private. It also keeps you safe online with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, secure protocols, and leak protection.

All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try Surfshark for free before committing. Surfshark One and Surfshark One+ plans are excellent choices if you want an antivirus-VPN combo with a few extra perks. But, the default Starter plan still packs plenty of desirable features at an affordable price.

Useful Features

• Static IP servers. They give you the same IP address each time you connect, but it's shared with other users on the server. You can also get an exclusive IP for a small fee. Both are handy for avoiding security checks, like CAPTCHAs, when logging into secure sites with your VPN.
• IP rotator. This feature boosts your privacy by frequently changing your IP address, making it hard for anyone to track or monitor your online activity, all while keeping your connection uninterrupted.
• CleanWeb. This feature is built-in and blocks malware, ads, and trackers.
• Advanced security features. It doesn’t skimp on security options with split tunneling, WireGuard, multi-hop and private DNS servers. Then there's Camouflage Mode (obfuscation) which helps you overcome VPN blocks.

5. IPVanish — Advanced Security Features To Protect Your Privacy on the Cheap

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Router Smart TV More

Try IPVanish VPN >

www.ipvanish.com

IPVanish privately owns all its servers, a feat many top VPNs have yet to accomplish. Most services still rent servers (especially the cheapest VPNs) and share facilities with other organizations, which can jeopardize your privacy.

Its privacy policy has been proven through independent audits

Like Surfshark, it gives you unlimited connections per account with one affordable subscription. We tested IPVanish by connecting 10 devices at the same time (including 6 Android devices and 4 PCs), and every connection remained stable. This means no more battles over the VPN to secure all the devices in your household. With its fast servers worldwide, the VPN is also a solid choice for gaming, streaming, or torrenting from anywhere.

One drawback is that IPVanish doesn't accept cryptocurrencies, which is great for added anonymity online. However, you can pay with all major credit cards or PayPal. Besides, its no-logging policy makes it clear it will never store your payment information, so I had no worries about sharing my details.

You can give IPVanish a risk-free trial using 30-day money-back guarantee. Unlike other VPNs, you don’t need to speak to an agent to get a refund. Just log into your account on the IPVanish website and click I wish to cancel my subscription. When I tested it, I got a full refund within 3 days.

Useful Features

• Large selection of protocols. IPVanish offers many different protocols, including WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and PPTP. This way, you can choose one that best suits your needs — speed or security.
• Security essentials. It has everything you need for a secure connection, including AES 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, double VPN, and DNS/IPv6 leak protection.
• P2P-friendly. Its entire server network supports torrenting and provides a SOCKS5 proxy connection for quicker downloads.
• Scramble. This feature disguises your VPN traffic as regular traffic, making it unrecognizable to VPN blocking technologies.

Quick Comparison Table: Cheap VPN Features

All the VPNs on my list are affordable; some of these providers even made our list of the best VPNs with free trials. However, they differ slightly in the features they offer. As a result, some VPNs might be more appropriate for your needs than others. Here's a quick side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Beware Some Cheap VPNs

Getting the cheapest VPN may seem like a great deal, but they often have significant drawbacks that can compromise your security, privacy, and overall online experience. While saving money is important, it’s crucial to consider the potential pitfalls that could cost you more in the long run.

For example, many shade VPNs offering crazy low prices have questionable privacy practices or can't afford large networks, which results in server congestion and extreme delays. So, it's best to stick to a low-cost, high-quality VPN that is proven to keep you safe online and provide speeds fast enough for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Our Methodology for Testing the Best Cheap VPNs

We used rigorous testing criteria to pick the best budget VPNs. After analyzing their pricing tiers and money-back guarantees, we made sure they were safe with extensive leak tests. We also thoroughly explored their privacy practices and history to make sure they’re responsible with your data. Speed tests were also crucial, along with analyses of their performance while streaming, torrenting, and gaming.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

FAQs on the Best Cheap VPNs

What's the fastest cheap VPN?

At $2.19/month, for a long-term plan, CyberGhost is one of the cheapest VPNs that's easy to use and compatible with all major devices. It has 11,690 servers in 100 countries, including optimized servers for torrenting, streaming, and gaming that give you a slight speed boost.

Can I use a cheap VPN for Netflix?

Yes. Some cheap VPNs like CyberGhost can securely access Netflix from anywhere and other popular streaming platforms. It has 25+ specialty servers for Netflix, including some optimized for Firestick and Android TV. Plus, all servers are continuously tested to confirm they continue to work and run smoothly

That said, some cheap VPNs have small server networks and slow speeds that won’t support Ultra HD streaming. Others simply don’t work with Netflix. Therefore, choosing a VPN that’s been tried and tested with Netflix is crucial.

What's the best cheap VPN for gaming?

CyberGhost stands out as the top low-cost VPN for gaming without lag. It has specialty gaming servers optimized for fast speeds and low ping (available on PC).

Plus, its top-notch security protects your gaming accounts from hackers and prevents DDoS attacks. And it offers smart DNS and router support, so there are 2 options for installing the VPN on your games console.

What's the best cheap VPN for torrenting?

CyberGhost is the best low-cost VPN for P2P activities. It features regularly updated P2P-optimized servers in various countries, allowing you to download torrent files quickly and safely. You can also enable “Block Content” to protect against the malicious content and ads that can be prevalent on popular torrenting sites.

Additionally, it hides your IP address and uses military-grade encryption to prevent your ISP from seeing your torrenting activity and throttling your connection.

How can I get a cheaper VPN?

There are some great VPNs available for less than $3/month. And what you get for this is well worth the cost. They help you stay secure online anywhere in the world without compromising speed. However, there are a few ways to get more value from your subscription:

• Use a coupon or a discount. Many VPNs have regular discounts and cheap deals that anyone can use. Check out our deals and coupons page for the most recent offers.
• Use a money-back guarantee. The VPNs on this list all offer reliable refund policies. You can easily test them out and claim your money back if you're not completely satisfied. Once you find the right VPN for you, you can stay subscribed.
• Subscribe to a long-term plan. As with most subscription-based services, longer plans are cheaper than short-term ones. For example, you can save 84% on a long-term CyberGhost subscription.

Are there cheap VPNs that bill monthly?

Yes, but signing up month-to-month will always cost more than going long-term. Plus, they often offer a cheap first month, but the renewal rates are usually higher. When signing up for a VPN, it’s recommended to compare prices — usually, you’ll see that the longest plan available will save you the most money.

Of the VPNs listed, the cheapest monthly plans are available from Private Internet Access, at about $11/month, but this is still more than 5 times what you’d pay if you commit to a long-term plan, and it’s the same with most VPNs. That’s because VPN providers usually offer discounts when you commit to a long-term plan.

Is it worth getting a cheap VPN for Firestick?

Yes, many pocket-friendly VPNs will allow you to securely stream on your Firestick. Once you have a subscription, you can download the app directly to your Firestick or Fire TV. Then you’ll have all the functionality and privacy of a budget-friendly, high-quality VPN on your smart TV or projector screen.

Are cheap VPNs safe and reliable?

The safety and reliability of cheap VPNs can vary significantly. Some cheap VPNs may cut corners on security, have limited server options, or log user data, which can compromise privacy. It's recommended that you choose a low-cost VPN with a global network that includes essential features like AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy.

What's better, a free or cheap VPN?

A cheap VPN is better because it doesn't restrict you like free VPNs do. While free VPNs may seem tempting, they often come with data caps, slower speeds, limited server options, and intrusive advertisements. With a good cheap VPN, you get fast speeds, strong security, unlimited data, and a global server network.

Free VPNs also often have weak security and can leak identifying information. Some even sell your data to third parties to make money. You're better off with an affordable VPN with the funds and resources to protect you properly.

Get the Best Cheap VPN

Even with so many VPNs available at all prices, getting a premium, low-cost option is possible. My team and I listed the best cheap VPNs that are safe, fast, and reliable. For example, these VPNs can securely stream popular platforms in HD from anywhere.

CyberGhost provides the best quality and value, with prices starting at $2.19/month. It’s optimized for various activities, like streaming, gaming, and downloading. Plus, its first-rate security features will keep you protected. With its money-back guarantee, you can try CyberGhost free for 45 days. If you're not 100% happy, getting a refund is easy.

To summarize, these are the best cheap VPNs…

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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1

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

Save 84%!

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2

9.5 /10

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3

9.4 /10

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4

9.3 /10

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5

9.2 /10

9.2 Our Score

Save 83%!

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