Key takeaways:
- You can find an affordable VPN service for $2-5 per month that provides strong encryption, a reliable connection, a no-logs policy, and even extra security tools.
- The best cheap VPN should offer strong encryption, secure protocols, a wide server network, fast speeds, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, and multi-device support or unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Multi-year plans often provide the best value, such as NordVPN’s Basic plan at $3.09 per month and Surfshark’s Starter plan at $1.99 per month when paid up front.*
- The cheapest VPN plans usually let you secure public Wi-Fi, find flight deals, and access subscribed home content while abroad. However, for more advanced features and applications, you may need to upgrade to a premium plan.
- Free or poorly managed cheap VPN services may log your data, show invasive ads, or expose you to malware. Always review privacy policies and security features before choosing a VPN service.
- Testing cheap VPNs through free trials and reading reviews helps ensure they fit your individual needs.
What makes the best cheap VPN service in 2025?
The best cheap VPN in 2025 combines affordability with reliable features. A trusty virtual private network doesn’t have to cost a lot to deliver strong security, excellent performance, and advanced tools. For just $2-5 per month, you can find an inexpensive VPN service that improves your privacy while ensuring a smooth and secure online experience.
To be considered one of the best, a cheap VPN needs more than a low price. It should include these key features:
- Strong encryption like AES-256, which is one of the most reliable encryption standards.
- Top protocols, like WireGuard, for speedy and secure browsing.
- A wide selection of servers, with 1,000+ options in multiple locations for reliable connections, plus specialty servers for enhanced security.
- Fast and consistent speeds to avoid delays when streaming or browsing.
- Support for multiple devices or unlimited simultaneous connections to secure all your gadgets under one plan.
- A no-logs policy, a kill switch, and split tunneling.
- Extra protection, such as ad blocking and malware prevention.
- Responsive customer support to address questions and problems quickly.
To save even more, take advantage of long-term plans offered by VPN providers. Keep in mind that VPN service prices can change frequently because providers often run promotions and special discounts to stay competitive.
For example, NordVPN’s 2-year Basic plan costs just $3.09/month, and Surfshark’s 2-year Starter plan is $1.99/month when paid up front. Both providers also include three extra months at no additional cost.*
PRO TIP: NordVPN and Surfshark both offer premium features at budget-friendly prices. Read our in-depth comparison of NordVPN vs. Surfshark to find out which VPN service is the best fit for your needs.
*The pricing information for NordVPN and Surfshark was verified on their official websites as of September 23, 2025, and is subject to change.
How to choose the best cheap VPN provider
If you want to choose the best affordable VPN provider, you have to consider both the service's affordability and quality. To do so, select several popular providers and evaluate their services by following the steps below.
Review pricing plans
Pricing plays a huge role in choosing a budget VPN service. Look for affordable pricing plans offering essential privacy features like strong encryption, multiple server locations, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a no-logs policy.
If you’re deciding between several cheap VPN plans in a similar price range, it’s worth spending a little extra on a plan that offers extra protection features. For example, NordVPN’s Plus plan offers more security features for just an extra $0.90 per month when paid up front.** These additional tools, like an ad and tracker blocker, anti-malware and browsing protection, can make a big difference in enhancing your online safety.
**The pricing information for NordVPN was verified on its official websites as of September 23, 2025, and is subject to change.
Check the server network and coverage
Consider the number of servers and their global distribution — the more VPN servers in different countries, the better. A VPN service with a more extensive server network gives you better speed, performance, and flexibility. Make sure the provider offers servers in your region in case you need to access locally available content, especially when traveling abroad.
Additionally, check for obfuscated servers if you need them — these specialized servers hide the fact that you’re using a VPN to reroute your traffic. If privacy and security are priorities, look for double VPN servers, which route your connection through two servers for added encryption and protection.
Look for reviews on connection speed and performance
Whether you want to access legal streaming services, game, or browse, your VPN should keep your connection fast and responsive. While all VPNs are expected to reduce your speed slightly, a good one ensures the impact is barely noticeable. If the VPN offers a free trial, use it to test how well it performs during your usual activities.
Check reviews from users and experts to see what they say about the VPN’s performance. Look for feedback on connection speeds and latency because these two factors directly affect the quality of your streaming or gaming sessions.
Also, check if the service limits your data usage. Some VPNs impose data caps, which can disrupt your plans if you stream videos or download large files.
Review security features and protocols
Look for strong encryption, such as AES-256, and fast, reliable VPN protocols like WireGuard. These technologies protect your internet traffic from hackers, trackers, and prying eyes.
Make sure the VPN also includes essential security features. A kill switch prevents your data from leaking if the VPN connection drops, while DNS leak protection ensures your private information stays safe.
Meanwhile, split tunneling gives you the flexibility to choose which apps or websites use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet.
Test compatibility and ease of use
When trying out the service, test and assess the ease of use of a particular VPN service. Is it easy to set up and configure the VPN app? Is the interface user friendly? A lower price should not mean the provider compromises on the ease of use.
Also, make sure the VPN app is compatible with all your devices and operating systems. The provider should support the platform you are using, whether it’s Windows, Android, macOS, or iOS.
Research customer support and its reliability
Good customer support can make all the difference when you run into problems with your VPN. Look for VPN companies that offer quick and helpful assistance whenever you need it. A reliable VPN service should provide 24/7 live chat or email support, so you’re never left waiting for answers.
Check online reviews to see what other users say about their experience. Do they get fast responses? Are the support teams knowledgeable and friendly? A VPN with reliable customer support shows that the company values its users and stands ready to solve any issues that come up.
Check for extra features
Some budget VPNs offer more than just the essential VPN basics to protect you from online threats. If you’re comparing two reliable VPN providers, and one offers more features for the same price or a price just slightly higher, it’s better to go with the one that gives you more value. Look for extra features like:
- A malware scanner to block viruses and ransomware before they even reach your device.
- An anti-phishing tool to stop fake websites from stealing your data.
- An ad blocker to remove annoying ads.
- A scam and fraud alert to warn you if you visit a website known for scamming people.
PRO TIP: NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™ service provides all these features along with extras like a vulnerability scanner, tracker blocker, and URL cleaner.
Use cases for cheap VPNs
A cheap VPN isn’t just affordable — even the cheapest plan can offer practical solutions for everyday challenges. While it might not include all the features of more expensive premium plans, a reliable budget VPN can still provide significant value.
Protect your data on public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks in cafes, airports, and hotels are convenient but risky. Without a VPN, hackers can intercept sensitive information sent over unsecured networks.
For example, if you’re working remotely at a coffee shop and need to access company files or log in to your bank account, a reliable VPN — even a budget-friendly one — keeps your connection more private and protects your traffic from being intercepted.
Find cheaper flight tickets
Flight prices often fluctuate based on your browsing location, thanks to dynamic pricing algorithms used by airlines and travel websites. By changing your virtual location with a VPN, you can compare ticket prices from different countries and potentially find lower fares.
Research from NordVPN has uncovered that Australians can expect to pay up to 128% more for travel arrangements. Vacations booked from Australia were considerably more expensive than those booked from the actual travel destinations.
And while this pricing difference doesn’t happen in every case, flight tickets are often subject to similar price variations. A cheap VPN with servers in multiple regions gives you the flexibility to browse as a local in various countries, which increases your chances of finding better deals.^
In contrast, expensive VPNs with limited server networks may not offer the same opportunities. To learn how to take full advantage of this trick, check out our article on how to get cheap flights with a VPN.
Access home content while abroad
Streaming services, local news websites, or even online banking services sometimes limit access when you’re temporarily outside your home country. A VPN lets you connect to a server in your home region, so it looks like you’re browsing from home. This connection lets you access your paid subscriptions and content without restrictions.^
For example, if you’re traveling in Europe but live in the US and want to check your local news website or watch a TV show or movie available through a streaming service you’re subscribed to at home, a VPN can help. By connecting to a US-based VPN server, you can access these region-specific services just as if you were back home.
^Please note that using NordVPN services for any illegal activities or to violate the terms of any service providers is strictly prohibited. Ensure your use complies with all relevant laws and terms of service.
What are the risks of using free or cheap low-quality VPNs?
Although VPNs provide great value, free and cheap low-quality VPNs often come with significant risks. Free VPNs, in particular, often compromise security because they lack the funding needed to provide strong protection, fast speeds, and useful features — qualities even affordable paid options can deliver.
However, low-cost VPNs with poor management or outdated tools can sometimes pose risks as well. Reliability ultimately depends on the specific provider.
| Risk/Limitations | Description |
|---|---|
| Weak security protocols | Some VPNs use outdated encryption, which makes it easier for hackers to access your data. |
| Data logging | Certain providers track your online activity and sell that data to advertisers or other third parties. |
| Limited server locations = slower speeds | Fewer server locations mean slower speeds because more users are sharing the same limited resources. |
| Frequent disconnects | Unstable connections can drop unexpectedly, interrupting your browsing, streaming, or downloads. |
| Intrusive ads and malware | Free VPNs sometimes flood you with ads or expose your device to harmful viruses and malware. |
| No customer support | Many budget low-quality VPNs cut costs by skipping support teams, leaving you without help when problems arise. |
| Restricted features | Cheap VPNs may limit your data, the number of devices, or block streaming sites entirely. |
| Unreliable privacy claims | Some providers promise strong privacy but fail to deliver or hide weaknesses in their services. |
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