VPN cost: How much is a VPN?

How much is a VPN?

With VPN prices ranging from a couple of dollars to a substantial $30 per month, you can pick and choose a service that fits your budget. The prices of paid VPNs can vary depending on factors like subscription length (longer plans often cost less per month) and the features offered, such as advanced security and privacy protections.

You can also find free VPNs, but keep in mind that the companies that offer these services still need to generate income. As a result, they often share user information with third parties, leading to an influx of personalized ads for the user. It’s no secret you’ll get better and more reliable services from a paid VPN. So let’s explore VPN prices in more detail.

How much does a VPN cost per month?

The price for using a virtual private network range from $1.99 to $17.99* per month, with some providers offering their services for free. The price varies depending on the VPN provider and the subscription period — any VPN price comparison will show you that longer subscription periods come with significantly lower prices.

Most VPN providers offer monthly, one-year, and two-year plans. If you don’t want to commit to a lengthy subscription or need only temporary VPN protection, you’ll find one-month plans that cost from a little under $8 to $17.95.

If you’re ready to commit to a one-year plan, the price per month will drop to $3.19–5.99. Several VPN providers offer six-month plans for around $7.

And if you’re willing to protect your internet traffic with a two-year plan, you’ll enjoy significantly lower monthly subscription prices of $1.99–5.69, depending on the provider and the special VPN deal on offer. But why are VPN prices so different?

*These price ranges are based on our review of the top ten VPN services, but keep in mind that the VPN market is highly competitive and the prices may change.

What factors affect VPN price

Factors that contribute to VPN pricing range from the VPN subscription period to its server infrastructure and special features. You should take them all into account when deciding how much to spend on a VPN.

VPN subscription plans and pricing model

One of the main factors that determines VPN prices is the length of the subscription. If you opt for the longest subscription period, which is usually two years, your average monthly cost for a VPN connection might drop by up to 70% compared to the monthly subscription price. Plus, for secure long-term subscribers, providers regularly offer special VPN deals that significantly lower the price.

Server infrastructure

Another key pricing factor is the extent of the VPN’s server network – the number of VPN servers and server locations. Operating a vast server network requires financial resources, so VPNs with a well-maintained and wide server network usually cost more.

Features and services

In addition to standard VPN benefits, like shielding your IP, preventing bandwidth throttling by your internet service provider, or browsing home content from abroad, the best VPN services offer extra security features. These features raise VPN prices by a little but improve your online security by a lot.

Extra services might include a VPN with a dedicated IP, , features for safe file sharing, like NordVPN’s Meshnet, or advanced tools for web protection and vulnerability detection, such as Threat Protection Pro™. Some providers offer split tunneling for a faster browsing experience and a double VPN for extra protection.

A cheap VPN provider will typically offer you the basics — encryption for your internet traffic, a hidden IP address, and a kill switch that disconnects you from the internet if your VPN connection drops. However, cheap or free VPNs won’t provide the comprehensive security package that premium VPNs do.

Security level

The main reason for subscribing to a VPN service is online security, which revolves around data encryption. But how do you know which VPN is secure? The easiest way to evaluate VPN security is to check what VPN protocol the provider uses to encrypt your traffic.

The most common VPN protocols are OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec. Since advanced protocols typically require a more sophisticated infrastructure and continuous development to guarantee robust VPN encryption, the price for VPNs that use them might be higher.

Performance and speed

The best VPNs compete to provide the fastest connections for their users that are also free of interruptions. They invest in encryption innovations and server network development, which, naturally, drives up VPN cost.

As one of the fastest VPN on the market, NordVPN uses the innovative NordLynx protocol, built around the WireGuard protocol, characterized by lightning-fast internet connection speeds and top-notch security.

Simultaneous connections

As the number of allowed simultaneous connections increases, the VPN provider’s infrastructure and resource expenses also increase. The management of this extra load typically leads to higher VPN prices.

Most providers offer a VPN for multiple devices: For example, NordVPN lets you connect a total of 10 devices with one account. Yet some providers allow unlimited simultaneous connections, which is a significant factor in their VPN’s pricing.

How to choose the best VPN

If you pick a quality VPN, you’ll be able to keep your online activity much more private, browse with increased security, and enjoy fast connection speeds. With so many options available, it’s important to consider factors that directly impact your online experience. Here are the key things to keep in mind when choosing a VPN service that’s best for you:

• Check the VPN’s no-logs policy. Make sure the provider doesn’t collect or store data on your online activity.
• Consider its encryption and security protocols. Look for strong encryption methods like AES-256 and reliable security protocols such as OpenVPN.
• Look for information on connection speeds. A fast connection is key for streaming and large file downloads, so check both the provider’s information and independent reviews or user speed tests to get a better sense of performance. 
• Choose a VPN with a wide server network. More server locations in different countries and cities can help improve speed. How? Connecting to a server closer to your actual location usually results in faster performance.
• Check compatibility. Make sure the VPN works with your devices, whether it’s a smartphone, computer, or router.
• Consider whether it offers simultaneous device connections. Some VPNs let you use multiple devices at once with the same account — this can be a game-changer.
• Look for a kill switch and data leak protection. These features will keep your data shielded from prying eyes if the VPN connection drops.
• Review the user interface. A clean and easy-to-navigate app is key to a smooth experience.
• Check out the customer support options. Having 24/7 help via chat or email can be a lifesaver if you run into problems.
• Compare pricing and guarantees. Find a VPN that offers great value, flexible subscription plans, and a money-back guarantee.
• Research reviews and reputation. Check out user feedback and expert reviews to see if the provider is known for being reliable and secure.

Once you go through this checklist, you'll be better equipped to choose a VPN that fits your needs and keeps your online activity safe and smooth.

How can you save money on a VPN?

Even though online privacy solutions have their price, you can be smart about it and avoid overpaying. Visit the provider’s website and look if any deals, discounts, or coupon codes are available to fetch you a better price.

1. Deals

One of the easiest ways to save money on a VPN is to seize special VPN deals that providers present more often than you might think. They often announce special deals and discounts on Christmas, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, during Cybersecurity Month, and the anniversaries of their services. So make sure to check out their websites on these occasions.

2. Annual subscriptions

Buying an annual subscription is usually a better deal because the monthly cost drops by over half for one-year and two-year plans. But keep in mind that with annual plans, providers usually charge you the amount for the entire year upon subscription. The amount might seem like a lot to spend in one go even at a discount, but it also saves you the hassle of issuing a payment every month.

3. VPN coupons

Some VPN providers sweeten the deal by offering VPN coupons. Visit their official websites to look for a coupon code and snatch your desired plan at a better price.

4. Influencer discounts

You’ve probably seen some influencers promoting their favorite VPN or even noticed a VPN logo when they’re sharing their screen. Well, you can usually benefit from these promotions by using YouTuber NordVPN codes. For example, NordVPN partners with PewDiePie, so go ahead and seize that PewDiePie deal — it will earn you a discount and add several extra months to your subscription.

5. Student and employee discounts

Some VPN providers offer discounts to certain groups of people or specific professionals. If you are a student, graduate, healthcare practitioner, teacher, or first responder or you work in the military, you might be eligible for a student or employee discount. All you have to do to receive the deal is verify your status on the provider’s website.

Is there an absolutely free VPN?

You can easily find free VPNs online, but we recommend staying clear of them. Why? Because they will still cost you something, even if it’s not your money. Free VPNs are infamous for tracking and selling your browsing data, flooding you with ads, and bombarding you with annoying messages about upgrading to a paid plan.

With money coming less from users than from selling data, some free VPNs lack the funds to provide strong security and privacy for their customers, which defies the purpose of a VPN altogether. For more on free services, check out our blog post on free VPNs vs. paid VPNs.

Instead of trying to improve your online security for free, look out for special deals from premium providers. In addition, you can shop around and choose the best VPN for you without putting your money on the line. For instance, NordVPN is a risk-free VPN – you can ask for your money back within the first month of your subscription if you don’t find it a good fit. But chances are you’ll find it just right.

Why buy a VPN service from NordVPN

If you’re considering getting NordVPN, you’ll be glad to know that it is considered the best VPN*. Why? NordVPN offers top-tier security features, doesn’t log its users’ online activity, and offers fast speeds across a global network of servers.

With features like a kill switch, double encryption, and a dedicated IP option, NordVPN is a solid choice if you’re looking for a reliable VPN and a more secure and private online experience.

NordVPN offers annual plans that bring the cost of the VPN service down significantly. In the US, NordVPN’s cost per year is currently as low as $3.99 per month when you sign up for a two-year subscription. Plus, you can often find seasonal deals or promotions to save even more. It’s a great option if you’re after both security and value.

*Information related to “best VPN” is supported by multiple sources (unless specific ones are mentioned), including, but not limited to, editorially independent evaluations and insights as well as statements from media articles, some of which were published through paid partnerships.

Do VPNs really work?

Yes, VPNs really work. They improve privacy and security by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address. This means your online activity is protected from snoopers, advertisers, and even your internet service provider. VPNs are especially effective when you’re browsing on public Wi-Fi, accessing home content from abroad, or trying to stay more private in your day-to-day browsing activity.

Is getting a lifetime VPN subscription a good idea?

No, getting a lifetime VPN subscription isn’t always a good idea. While it may seem like a great deal upfront due to solid discounts on these deals, the downside is that VPN services evolve over time, and their pricing, features, or quality could change — possibly, for the worse. The company offering a lifetime deal may not be around long term, so you might end up stuck with a service that doesn’t meet your needs.