5 Best Pay-Monthly VPNs With Cheap Plans in 2024

Finding the right VPN can feel like a commitment — especially when most services push long-term plans to lock you in for years. But what if things change? Features get cut, servers become unreliable, or the VPN doesn’t work with your favorite streaming platform anymore. I’ve experienced it all, and it’s frustrating to be stuck in a long-term subscription, especially if you’re paying for something that no longer meets your needs.

That’s why pay-monthly VPNs are a great alternative. They give you flexibility without the long-term commitment, letting you cancel anytime if the service no longer works for you. After testing a range of VPNs, my team and I found some great options that balance cost, performance, and ease of use.

From these, ExpressVPN is my favorite monthly VPN. It offers consistently fast speeds, strong security, and a large server network for a safe and smooth online experience. Its monthly plan is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it risk-free and get a refund if you’re not satisfied. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best Cheap Monthly 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.

Quick Comparison Table: Cheap Monthly VPN Features

The table below compares our top-recommended pay-as-you-go VPNs alongside other decent monthly VPNs that didn't quite make the cut in the main list. In this table, you'll find important details such as the lowest price, one-month plan cost, money-back guarantee period, number of countries with servers, average download speed, and simultaneous device connections.

Note that the order of the VPNs is based on multiple factors, not just the cost of the 1-month price.

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 Pay Monthly VPNs — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Overall Best Value With Fast Speeds for a Seamless Online Experience

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

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is the fastest monthly VPN we tested, making it ideal for data-heavy tasks like streaming, gaming, and torrenting. In our tests on nearby servers, we recorded an average download speed of 232Mbps (a 3% drop). Even on distant US servers, ExpressVPN delivered solid speeds (18% drop). This excellent performance is due to its proprietary Lightway protocol, which is designed to deliver fast speeds without compromising security.

Our speeds remained consistent no matter where we connected

It’s also great for streaming, whether you need it for short- or long-term use. We tested ExpressVPN with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Max, and Hotstar, and it worked seamlessly. There was no need to switch servers, and we enjoyed buffer-free HD or UHD streaming every time. It can securely access your favorite content from anywhere.

One thing to improve is allowing more customizability of its privacy and security features. Still, it pulls ahead in all other aspects concerning privacy. For instance, ExpressVPN maintains an audited no-logs policy, proven in real-world situations like the Turkish server incident. It also operates in the British Virgin Islands (outside the 5-Eyes jurisdiction) to protect your data from government oversight. Plus, its RAM-based servers wipe data after every reboot.

ExpressVPN’s monthly price is comparable to most monthly VPNs ($12.95). However, you’ll get the best value with its long-term plan, costing $4.99/month. There’s also a 6-month option available. All the plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it risk-free no matter which subscription you choose. If you are not satisfied, it’s easy to get a full refund.

Useful Features

• Automatic obfuscation on every server. ExpressVPN can detect VPN blocks (like at work, school, or on public WiFi networks) and will automatically scramble your data to avoid detection. It’s even known to work in China.
• Robust security. It offers a kill switch that prevents data exposure if the VPN connection drops and IP/DNS leak protection to prevent your data from being exposed. Plus, the Advanced Protection set of features blocks ads, trackers, and malware, enhancing your online safety.
• ExpressVPN Keys. You can secure as many passwords as you want with this feature, which is available with all ExpressVPN plans. It lets you generate, store, and fill passwords on multiple devices. Plus, if it detects a data breach associated with some of your saved accounts, you will be notified.
• Smart DNS. ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer lets you stream on devices that don't support VPNs (like smart TVs and gaming consoles). It’s also super easy to set up on a router, so you can easily cover all your devices for a full month.

2. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Customizable Security to Optimize Your One-Month VPN Connection

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA is one of the most customizable monthly VPNs, letting you adjust your connection based on what’s important to you. It offers the WireGuard or OpenVPN protocols — with OpenVPN, you can reduce the encryption level to 128-bit for faster speeds or stick with 256-bit for maximum security. Plus, it lets you choose between IPv4 and IPv6 connections. In our PIA testing, IPv6 provided lower latency, resulting in smooth gaming sessions.

UDP transport is generally faster, but TCP can be more reliable on unstable networks

For secure torrenting, PIA’s Multi-Hop feature routes your traffic through both a VPN server and a SOCKS5 or Shadowsocks proxy. This provides an extra layer of protection, which is invaluable for privacy. PIA also supports port forwarding, giving you a boost in download speeds that makes file sharing faster and more efficient.

My only gripe with PIA is that it's based in the US. This country is part of the 5 Eyes Alliance, whereas ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands and, therefore, isn’t subject to any such government compliance. However, PIA’s privacy policy is solid — it’s been around for over 10 years and has never shared any user data, even when requested in court.

PIA’s monthly plan costs a reasonable $11.95 and provides good value, considering you can use it on unlimited devices. Whichever plan you choose, you’re eligible for its 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try PIA for free and get a full refund if it’s not for you.

Useful Features

• Locations in every US state. PIA is the only service on this list with a server in each US state. This allows you to easily connect to an IP address from your home state if you're traveling elsewhere.
• Great for streaming. Although it doesn’t work with as many platforms as ExpressVPN, it still securely accessed major services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video in our tests.
• Good speeds. We only experienced an 8% speed reduction on nearby servers, and even on distant ones, speeds dropped by just around 24%. Its balance of speed and security makes it suitable for browsing, streaming, and gaming with no lag.
• PIA MACE. PIA comes with its own ad, tracker, and malware blocker called MACE. It effectively blocks intrusive ads and helps keep malicious sites from loading, which can improve both your browsing speed and security.

3. CyberGhost — Monthly VPN With Specialized Streaming Servers

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

If you’re looking for a monthly VPN with excellent streaming capabilities, CyberGhost is a solid option. It offers dedicated streaming servers for popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, DAZN, BBC iPlayer, and many more. While testing CyberGhost, we tried multiple specialized servers, and each one worked as intended. Its Hotstar-optimized server let us watch Gaslight in full HD without slowdowns. We had great streaming quality on Netflix as well.

CyberGhost has streaming-optimized servers in 20+ countries

In addition to streaming, CyberGhost provides specialized servers for gaming and torrenting. The gaming-optimized servers deliver lower latency for smooth gameplay, while the torrenting servers are configured to prioritize speed. When we tested its nearby torrenting server, we experienced just a 4% speed drop (119.68Mbps) compared to 6% on a regular server in the same location.

If privacy is your ultimate goal, you’ll appreciate its NoSpy servers. These are located in privacy-friendly Romania and managed exclusively by the CyberGhost staff. This added control minimizes third-party interference and enhances security for sensitive activities like online banking and other privacy-critical tasks.

CyberGhost’s monthly plan is priced at $12.99, which is a steep increase compared to its long-term plans (even slightly pricier than ExpressVPN). Plus, it comes with a shortened 14-day money-back guarantee. However, its long-term plan costs just $2.19/month and includes a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• Easy to use. With relatively few features, you’ll quickly get the hang of CyberGhost’s app. Plus, you can pre-configure your favorite settings for more convenience with Smart rules.
• Block content. This feature blocks sites used for malware, trackers, and ads for a safe and secure online experience.
• Dedicated IP address. For a small fee, you can get an IP address exclusively for your use. Since this IP isn’t shared with others, it can offer faster speeds and a more stable connection.

4. NordVPN — Double VPN for Extra Security on a Monthly Plan

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN’s Double VPN provides extra security by routing your traffic through two servers instead of one, doubling the encryption. This added step ensures that your data is well-protected as it travels through an additional secure layer, making it ideal if you need extra privacy for tasks like managing sensitive accounts or sharing confidential files.

You can find the Double VPN feature under Specialty Servers

In terms of speed, NordVPN ranks just behind ExpressVPN in our tests, thanks to its NordLynx protocol. When connected to NordVPN’s nearby server, we observed a minimal speed drop of only 5%. NordLynx combines the security of NordVPN with the efficiency of WireGuard and gives you reliable performance for HD streaming, gaming, or video calls.

The mobile app interface is one area with room for improvement, especially its world map feature, which can feel cumbersome on a small screen. However, you can always opt to switch servers by manually searching through the server list instead.

There are a range of monthly plans available starting at $12.99: Basic, Plus, and Complete. The more expensive packages include extras like cloud storage and a data breach scanner. The standard plan doesn’t offer extra features, but it’s the most affordable. The 30-day money-back guarantee will protect you, whichever plan you choose.

Useful Features

• Excellent streaming capabilities. With NordVPN’s monthly plan, you can stream Hulu, Disney+, Netflix, Max, and other popular platforms in HD with ease.
• Threat Protection Pro. This feature blocks ads, trackers, and malicious URLs. It also scans downloads for malware and checks apps for security vulnerabilities. It’s available on Windows and macOS, while a simplified version (Threat Protection) is accessible on Android, iOS, Linux, and browser extensions.

5. IPVanish — Monthly VPN With Unlimited Connections for Multi-Device Use

Works With:

ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ More

Try IPVanish VPN >

www.ipvanish.com

IPVanish offers unlimited device connections, making it ideal for securing an entire household under one monthly subscription. We tested it by connecting many of our gadgets simultaneously, including smartphones, 2 PCs, a tablet, and a smart TV. Even with several active devices, we didn’t encounter any interruptions with IPVanish.

We put it to the test by streaming different content on each device, but it made no noticeable difference

You also get robust privacy protection with its self-owned server network. Unlike VPNs that rent third-party servers, IPVanish’s proprietary infrastructure helps protect your data by minimizing exposure to external parties. This is all reinforced by RAM-only servers and a strict no-logs policy, so you know your data is safeguarded.

IPVanish works well with most major streaming platforms, including Netflix. However, sometimes you might experience issues with the streaming quality as our results showed more significant drops at faraway distances. But if you have high base speeds, you can still watch at least in HD.

The monthly pricing starts at $12.99 for the Essential package, which is the same for CyberGhost and NordVPN. Unfortunately, IPVanish’s monthly plan isn’t eligible for a refund. Only its long-term plans offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you try it out without risk.
Useful Features

• Strong security features. You get access to Threat Protection, a handy feature that blocks malicious websites, ads, and trackers to enhance your online security and privacy while browsing. It also comes with the essentials, like IP/DNS leak protection and a kill switch that can even be used on Fire TV.
• P2P support. All of IPVanish’s servers support torrenting. Plus, it offers a SOCKS5 proxy connection to help you achieve faster download speeds.

Our Methodology for Testing Monthly VPNs

Our approach to testing monthly VPNs focuses on balancing performance, security, and usability to ensure these services are worth it for short-term users. We start with each VPN’s speed tests across various locations, noting how quickly each service connects and whether speeds remain consistent over time. This is essential for activities like streaming, gaming, and large downloads, as even minor slowdowns can sometimes disrupt your online experience.

We also evaluate each VPN’s server network while focusing on the range of available servers in key locations and their streaming capabilities. Our tests cover security aspects, too, including encryption strength, IP/DNS leak protection, and privacy policies to ensure each VPN prioritizes user data protection. For more details, check out our VPN testing methodology page for an in-depth look at how we evaluate these essential features.

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

Free VPNs vs Pay-Monthly VPNs: Which Should You Choose?

Ultimately, if you need a VPN for regular short-term use — whether for streaming, torrenting, or consistent privacy protection — a pay-monthly VPN is a better choice. Better yet, choose a long-term plan that offers discounts and coupons so you can save on your subscription costs. Plus, longer plans almost always come with a money-back guarantee, whether monthly plans sometimes offer shorter refund periods or none at all.

For occasional or low-stakes use, a free VPN might work, but for optimal security, speed, and flexibility, investing in a paid option provides a far superior experience. Free VPNs offer a no-cost way to protect your online privacy, but they come with significant risks and limitations. You’ll often face restrictions on speeds, server access, and monthly data, making it hard to stream, torrent, or browse intensively.

Most free VPNs lack advanced features found in premium options, such as ad blockers and multi-device support — and they often have weak security features. Some free options have even been known to log and sell user data to cover their operating costs.

In contrast, pay-monthly VPNs allow you to access the full suite of premium features without committing long-term. However, these plans tend to be slightly more expensive than the annual subscription counterparts per month.

Paid VPNs also tend to offer 24/7 customer support and enhanced privacy protocols like RAM-only servers and third-party audits. These features ensure that your online activities are secure and private without the common risks associated with free services.

FAQs on the Best Cheap Monthly VPNs

What is the cheapest monthly VPN?

The cheapest monthly VPN on this list is the #2 VPN — it offers affordable monthly plans in the UK, US, and other parts of the world. You also get dependable speeds and solid privacy features. However, there are a couple of options that are even more affordable, but they don’t offer quite as many features, which is why they didn’t make the top 5 list.

For better long-term value, the #1 VPN on our list offers robust discounts on extended plans, ideal if you need more than just a month-to-month option. You can also explore our list of the cheapest VPNs if you’d like more options.

What is the best monthly VPN, according to Reddit?

Reddit users frequently recommend ExpressVPN for its rapid speeds and strong security. Reddit's community values monthly VPNs that offer reliable service for various activities, including streaming, torrenting, and gaming. Reddit posts often highlight ExpressVPN for its exceptional performance and user-friendly experience, making it a strong choice.

Will my pay-monthly VPN work on my Fire Stick?

Yes, you can download your pay-monthly VPN directly onto your Fire Stick from the Amazon Appstore. The monthly VPNs on this list have native apps for Amazon Fire devices. Even if your VPN doesn’t have an app in the Amazon Appstore, you can sideload its APK file and just use the Android version. Make sure to only get APK files from the VPN’s official site to avoid security issues, though.

Why are monthly VPNs so expensive?

Monthly VPN plans are often more expensive because providers encourage long-term commitments, where they can offer greater discounts. With a month-to-month plan, you gain the flexibility to cancel anytime, making income less predictable for the VPN company, which leads to higher costs.

To offset this, monthly plans often come at a premium, covering extra overhead for short-term users. That said, some VPNs on our list keep rates affordable even on their monthly plans, providing a flexible option without the typical price hike.

How much should a monthly VPN plan cost?

A monthly VPN plan should cost under $15, depending on the service's features, privacy and security, server network, and speeds. Also, note its streaming, gaming, and torrenting capabilities. Prices vary widely among VPN providers and don’t always reflect the quality of service. We carefully selected and ranked the VPNs listed above to ensure you get a VPN that meets your budget and your expectations.

Can I try a monthly VPN for free?

Yes, you can try most of the listed monthly VPNs risk-free via money-back guarantees. Some, like IPVanish, don’t offer a refund for the one-month plan, but I tested those that do to ensure they were trustworthy. So, you can evaluate the VPN's performance, ease of use, and compatibility with your devices before committing to a paid plan.

Get the Best Cheap Monthly VPN

You wouldn’t marry someone without going on a few dates first, right? And, since a VPN subscription can last longer than many relationships, you need to make sure you’ve chosen the right option. And a short-term plan is perfect for that. It could even lead to something beautiful... Or, it could just be a one-month stand.

And while my team and I are fully committed, we’re in full agreement that ExpressVPN offers the best monthly deal. It’s ideal for everyday browsing as well as streaming, P2P, and gaming — all without switching settings. Plus, since it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee (even on the monthly plan), you can try ExpressVPN risk-free to see if it really is the one. You can easily get a full refund if the honeymoon is over.

To summarize, these are the best cheap monthly 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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