Best cheap VPNs in 2024

VPNs are among key necessities of modern life for all who care about privacy, value paying less for subscriptions, and know a thing or two about bypassing geo-blocks. Reputable VPNs boost online privacy by encrypting your activity online and spoof your true location, enabling access to geo-restricted content and cheapest subscriptions. However, finding a trustworthy yet cheap VPN can get tricky as quality protection rarely comes for free.

On average, VPNs are priced at 3-10$/month, with longer-term subscriptions costing less. Of course, they are $1/month cheap VPNs too. Unfortunately, few of such low cost VPN services truly can deliver on the promise of quality, yet alone ensure your safety online or bypass geo-blocks.

Therefore, I reviewed 22 cheapest VPN providers as of December 2024 to see with my own eyes whether quality and affordability can coexist. I tested for parameters like cost, speeds, servers, security toolkit, unblocking power, and more. And good news is yes, you can find a truly reliable cheap VPN without sacrificing your security. Read on for my curated list of the best budget and reliable VPNs currently available.

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Top 3 Cheapest VPNs: shortlist

1. Surfshark VPN

   Overall best cheap VPN for streaming
   9.5
2. NordVPN

   Best value cheap VPN for ultimate security
   9.8
3. TotalVPN

   Cheapest easy-to-use VPN with ad blocker included
   8.2

Best cheap VPN services in 2024: overview

In reviewing 22 cheap VPNs on the market, I primarily focused on the feature-to-price ratio. My goal was finding a combination that offers best value for money:

• Provides a large enough server fleet and robust encryption to unblock restricted content
• Equipped with an advanced security toolkit that leaves no traces and logs of my activities
• Delivers consistently sufficient speeds to stream shows and sports events in high-quality
• Offers flexible subscription plans and discounts.

After extensive testing of low cost VPN providers, I found several standout options that balance affordability with security and performance. Here’s a detailed overview of my best cheap VPN picks.

1. Surfshark – overall best cheap VPN service for gaming and streaming

Surfshark is the overall best cheap VPN in 2024, priced at just $2.19/month for its two-year plan. With it, you get access to 3200+ servers across 100+ countries and unlimited simultaneous connections. Not to mention the added value of its 7-day free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee.

Subscription plans. I reviewed all plans that Surfshark currently offers:

The most affordable out of three is Surfshark Starter. And it offers all essentials in terms of security, speeds, and server reach. However, I personally prefer Surfshark One with its 2-year plan. The cost is just slightly higher than Starter’s, yet on top of everything Starter has I also get an antivirus and a few useful security addons.

Unblocking capabilities & speeds. My tests confirmed that Surfshark successfully circumvents geographical restrictions and helps watch more movies and TV shows. I tested it while on a family trip to Ontario (Canada) by unblocking US TV. I craved some ESPN Sports, so I chose one of Surshark’s 600+ US servers (namely, one in New York), and successfully accessed the latest sports broadcasts. Along with ESPN, Surfshark easily unblocks Hulu, Prime Video, Disney+, and other popular streaming services. WireGuard tunneling protocol let me stream without any buffering issues (average speed stayed around 521 Mbps at all times).

Security. In the security department, Surfshark employs IPv6, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection. The industry-standard 256-bit encryption is there to hide you from local ISPs eyes and streaming services detection system. And CleanWeb ensures you are protected against malicious ads and malware at all times. Finally, the kill switch protects your location from being revealed if Internet connection breaks down.

After a thorough deep-dive into cheap VPNs, Surfshark is my top choice. It reliably covers VPN basics (security, jurisdiction, speed, server coverage), offers a robust antivirus and ad blocker at a low cost, and doesn’t cap the number of simultaneous connections. Not to mention, you can get a discount by checking out its Coupons and Deals.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

2. NordVPN – best in security cheapest VPN

NordVPN is the best value cheap VPN, priced at an affordable $2.99/month for its 2-year plan. It’s a sweet spot in terms of price and effectiveness. NordVPN may not be the cheapest overall in the VPN market, but no other service offers as much value for money. NordVPN has two times as many servers as Surfshark, delivers superior speeds, military-grade encryption, split tunnelling, and superb unblocking capabilities. Not to mention, you can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free-trial (Android).

Subscription plans. Here’s a quick dive into current NordVPN plans.

The trick to saving money with NordVPN is opting for its long-term subscription plans and carefully considering extras you need. If you ask me, NordVPN’s cheapest Basic 2-year plan is more than enough to cover all bases. It’ll open to you 7000+ servers in 118+ countries to bypass geo-blocks, the fastest NordLynx tunneling protocol to maximise connection speed, and a treasure trove of excellent security and privacy features. Ad blocker and malware protection are included as well! Yes, this best cheapest VPN does limit simultaneous connections to 10, but that’s more than enough to protect all of your devices.

Unblocking capabilities & speed. NordVPN is also a great cheap VPN to expand your entertainment capabilities. It unblocks a wide range of Netflix libraries, including the US, UK, Japan, and more. I put it to test in the US, to unblock Harry Potter which is available on Netflix Japan. NordVPN has close to 200 servers there, so connecting wasn’t an issue. It effectively bypassed Netflix geo-block with comfortable average speeds. But given a remote server location, I also used NordLynx tunneling protocol to optimise them further. Ended up with around 350 Mbps average download speed. Naturally, other streaming services like BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and Hulu are also supported.

Security. This best cheapest uses strong encryption and the advanced SHA-512 hash function, making it virtually impossible to crack. NordVPN is based in Panama, a classic choice for privacy enthusiasts. Additionally, it has an independently-audited no-logs policy, ensuring that no personal data is ever at risk of leaking. What’s more, all standard servers are equipped with RAM-only technology, ensuring privacy on a fundamental level.

Extras. For protection against ads and malware, NordVPN has the CyberSec ad blocking feature. Furthermore, people seeking extra confidentiality can utilise Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and obfuscated servers.

Finally, this best cheapest VPN regularly offers neat discounts and coupons. Not to mention, payment options include cryptocurrencies, along with traditional means like credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, AmazonPay.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

3. Total VPN – cheapest VPN service with ad blocker and antivirus included

When it comes to best budget VPNs, Total VPN is hard to beat. Priced at a comfortable $1.59/month for its 2-year plan, it offers an arsenal of premium security tools like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and a reliable no-logs policy combined with solid OpenVPN and IKEv2 tunnelling protocols. Plus, it gives you a robust antivirus and ad blocker at zero extra money, and costs just a fraction compared to big-name rivals.

Subscription plans. TotalAV can only be purchased as part of the TotalAV antivirus suite that has two plans – Internet Security and Total Security.

A 1-year subscription to this best budget VPN will cost you $4.79/month when paying for the full year upfront. While this yearly rate is very low, prices may increase when it comes time to renew the subscription. Thankfully, Total VPN does offer new users a handy 7-day free trial plus a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans which allows you to test drive the service risk-free before you commit.

Unblocking capabilities & speed. Although this budget VPN operates just 50 servers across 35 countries, it comfortably unblocked Netflix for me: US, Italian, and Japanese libraries. The only hiccup I had was with Australian Netflix (no luck with any of its server locations). However, I personally do not consider it a major disadvantage. Talking speeds, I retained 70% download speed at all times, connecting US to EU (using its IKEv2 tunnelling protocol).

Security and privacy. Total VPN ensures data safety with industry-leading AES-256-bit encryption, ensuring hackers can't access your data. Plus, it employs the reliable OpenVPN protocol and has both a manual and automatic kill switch, adding layers of protection to prevent any data leaks if your connection drops. While based in the UK, Total VPN claims a strict no-logs policy to maintain your anonymity but independent audits are yet to verify.

Extra features. Along with keeping your browsing encrypted and anonymous, you get Total Adblock to eliminate intrusive ads and block dangerous sites. TotalAV antivirus is included too to provide nonstop monitoring, detect malware and other vulnerabilities. Finally, the subscription also gives you Total Password to create ultra-secure passwords and safeguard all your online accounts.

Overall, Total VPN delivers a full-featured VPN and cybersecurity service that outperforms the competition while costing less.

For a deeper investigation of TotalVPN, read our TotalVPN review.

4. Proton VPN – best affordable VPN with great price-to-feature ratio

Proton VPN is the best affordable security-oriented VPN that’s also great for streaming. Starting at $3.59/month, this Swiss-based VPN is equipped with 9200+ self-owned Secure Core servers in 110 countries, solid AES-256 encryption, and a third-party audited no-logs policy. With such an arsenal, it excelled at unblocking HBO Max for me from the EU when I wanted to revisit South Park.

Subscription plans. As with many other affordable VPNs, you’ll save more with long-term Proton VPN plans.

Plans start at a highly affordable rate of just $3.59/month. But low cost doesn't mean that you do not get a chance to try out their service risk-free before committing. Proton VPN offers all its plans with a full 30-day money-back guarantee. If interested, consider using its coupons to get an even bigger deal.

Unblocking capabilities & speed. On the encryption front, Proton VPN doesn't skimp. It employs AES 256-bit encryption paired with a 2048-bit DH key and SHA384, ensuring a fort-like security for your internet connection. It allows it to seamlessly bypass most geo-blocks and unlock BBC Player, YouTube, Prime Video, Peacock, Netflix, and more. While Proton VPN may not have such fast speeds as NordVPN or Surfshark, it offers ample bandwidth for smooth streaming. Speeds can fluctuate depending on location – yet remain quick enough for rapid downloads. However, the WireGuard servers still deliver great performance perfect for streaming sharing.

Security and privacy. Proton VPN offers a strict no-logging policy, ensuring your online activities stay private. It also goes the extra mile with an internet kill switch and comprehensive leak protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC vulnerabilities, keeping your identity and data secure across the board.

Extra features. Proton VPN offers additional protective layers like stealth modes, Secure Core servers, dedicated IP, port forwarding, and application guards for enhanced defense against restrictions and network attacks.

For a deeper investigation of Proton VPN, read our Proton VPN review.

5. CyberGhost – cheap VPN for secure browsing

CyberGhost is an affordable VPN service for global browsing that offers solid speeds, security, and worldwide streaming capabilities. Thanks to its vast global network you’ll always have access to speedy servers close to your location. And with over 11700 RAM-only servers spanning 100 countries, you have the flexibility to choose locations tailored to your browsing needs.

Subscription plans. CyberGhost offers appealing flexibility with six-month and two-year options. The premium value shines through with its two-year plan at just $2.03/month billed upfront. And with its generous 45-day money-back guarantee, CyberGhost provides extra assurance, exceeding guarantees from most VPN competitors.

Unblocking capabilities & speed. When I put it to the test, CyberGhost delivered consistent speeds and successfully unblocked Hulu for me from Italy. I used its WireGuard protocol for the fastest and most secure connection and ended up with a decent 269 Mbps. It also easily unblocks Prime Video and has specialty servers for over 10 different regional Netflix libraries (incl. USA, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Japan).

Security and privacy. CyberGhost ticks all the boxes when it comes to online security and privacy. For starters, it uses strict AES-256 encryption along with a kill switch failsafe that ensures zero data leaks if connections drop. You also get added security protocols, WebRTC leak prevention, and selective split tunneling to further segment traffic.

Overall, CyberGhost is an affordable VPN, perfect for browsing, that gets the job done while offering tremendous value.

For a deeper investigation of CyberGhost VPN, read our CyberGhost VPN review.

Cheap VPN prices: comparison

My research into 20+ best budget VPNs revealed an interesting insight – typically, signing up for longer 12-month contracts and paying the full amount upfront will score you the biggest savings on the subscription plan.

However, the best VPNs are also not free – you'll need to pay a reasonable monthly or annual fee to truly safeguard your online activity. In my research, I compared affordable VPN services not just in terms of pricing. Instead, I evaluated which low cost VPNs strike the finest balance between pricing on one hand, and versatility, speed, security on the other.

So here’s my breakdown of best feature-to-price budget VPNs:

At the end of the day, which best cheap VPN you choose depends primarily on your use case, what device you have, and how familiar you are with VPNs overall. Will you be using it just to protect your privacy? For gaming? Torrenting? Or perhaps you travel a lot and need it for international browsing? In my research of cheapest VPNs, I tried to cover the most common use cases and find the most suitable provider for each.

• Surfshark earned its #1 by being best cheap VPN for streaming, gaming, security, unlimited simultaneous connections support, perfect for Amazon Fire Stick and Android devices
• NordVPN should be your go-to cheap VPN service if you value military-grade security above all else, use Kodi, and are an Apple super fan (it has robust native apps for iOS, macOS, and even AppleTV)
• TotalVPN is an affordable VPN that will particularly appeal to those who’ve never used a VPN before. Its reliable, easy-to-use, intuitive interface, and responsible customer support service will help you master the basics and protect your privacy without paying an arm and a leg.
• Proton VPN is my #1 choice when it comes to security. It comes with a third-party audited no-logs policy, Secure Core servers, and is based in the friendly Swiss jurisdiction.
• CyberGhost is the best cheap VPN for international browsing. It boasts a massive server network distributed in 100 countries, which ensures a bandwidth-rich server is always within reach to keep you surfing at full throttle regardless of location.

How to choose the best and cheapest VPN in 2024?

The goal here is to get what you need without overspending. That said, here are some factors you should consider while selecting the best cheap VPN service providers.

• Number of servers and locations. Having servers across more global locations gives greater flexibility to access content. Extensive server infrastructure also delivers faster, more robust connections.
• Connection speeds. A quality VPN should provide reliably fast connection speeds to minimize lag and disruptions to your browsing, streaming media, and downloads.
• Encryption standards. Look for cutting-edge VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard and encryption like AES-256 bit to keep your VPN tunnels and transactions highly secure across networks. Added protections like an automatic kill switch, ad and malware blockers, leak prevention, and port forwarding tools also enhance safety, privacy, and performance.
• No-Log policies. Choose a VPN that pledges not to monitor, log, or store your online activities and data as you use the service. Consider going for VPNs with audited zero-logs policies. A good example is Surfshark.
• Simultaneous connections. The ability to protect multiple devices concurrently under one account saves money over individually subscribed plans.
• Usability. If you are new to VPN services, pick one offering user-friendly apps and setup guides to simplify getting started. Select services also offer live customer assistance.
• Compatibility across devices. Ensure that the VPN provider you choose is compatible across various operating systems essentials, like Windows, iOS, and Android.
• Pricing, discounts, and money-back guarantees. Look for a cheap VPN that offers a competitive price relative to its features and services. Getting a two-year, three-year, or other multi-year subscription can save a lot of money over monthly plans. Plus, best affordable VPNs will give you a window of at least 30 days to receive a full refund if not satisfied. Shop around for policies that offer some financial protection.
• Extra value services. Some VPN providers bundle in add-ons like encrypted cloud storage, password managers, or access to a private encrypted internet gateway for additional security.

Are cheap VPNs safe?

No, not all cheap VPNs are safe. Encryption and servers cost money. Many cheap providers don’t invest enough in those. So, what you will get are far fewer servers and data caps (hence lower speeds, VPN disconnecting, inability to run data-heavy apps, geo-blocked content) and absence of important security features like leak protection and an automatic kill switch.

But that doesn’t mean that you should spend a fortune for a good VPN. My research proved that some reliable VPNs balance affordability with robust protection and big server fleet. Look no further than industry leaders like Surfshark ($2.19/month) or NordVPN ($2.99/month). On top of affordable costs, they both come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and free-trials. So instead of unnecessary risks and limited features, choose from the best cheap VPNs that don’t compromise on protection.

Cheap VPNs in 2024: video overview

If you’d like to learn more about cheap VPNs, but in video form, we have you covered. Here are our suggestions for worthwhile VPN providers that are under $4/month.

Bottom line

There’s no lack of options in terms of cheap VPNs. However, making the right choice might seem like a daunting task, especially when choosing the wrong VPN might yield unfortunate consequences.

When it comes to price-to-feature ratio and value for money overall Surfshark is the best cheap VPN in 2024. It strikes a perfect balance between low price ($2.19/month for it’s 2-year plan), a massive server fleet, robust security toolkit, extensive unblocking capability, and a built-in ad blocker. On top of that, it’s risk-free to try thanks to a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

How much are you willing to pay for a VPN? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment!

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FAQ

What is the cheapest VPN?

The best and cheapest VPN is Surfshark. It charges just $2.19/month for its 2-year plan. And it provides top-tier protection, speeds, and unblocking capabilities thanks to its extensive server fleet, robust security toolkit, and advanced tunnelling protocols. Not to mention, the 2-year plan comes with an antivirus and an ad blocker.

What VPN offers the best value for money?

NordVPN offers the best value for money, charging $2.99/month for its 2-year plan. It’s among lowest priced VPNs on the market and combines top-notch protection, expansive global server fleet, consistently fast connection speeds, and strong unblocking capabilities with affordable long-term plans.

Are cheap VPNs worth it?

Yes, but not all. Some VPNs try to entice you with an attractive price, while in reality, they’re covering the costs by collecting and selling your data. It’s crucial to choose a trustworthy VPN with a good history.

Can I get a VPN under $5?

Yes, you can get a solid VPN under $5. Look into long-term plans and you’ll see that the best comprehensive, yet low cost VPN within that budget is Surfshark, priced at just $2.19/month. It offers a great combination of affordability with robust privacy toolkit and extensive unblocking capabilities.

Is it better to get a free VPN or paid?

A free VPN will give you fewer servers and they're likely to be overcrowded, insufficient connection speeds, and can compromise your privacy online. Plus, free VPN rarely can unblock restricted content. Trustworthy cheap VPNs on the other hand offer unlimited bandwidth and don't cap your speed.

Why are VPNs so expensive?

Reliable VPNs are often expensive because providers need money to sustain and expand servers and provide robust protection against every emerging cybersecurity threats. However, you can affordable plans with most high-end VPN providers, if you look into long-term subscriptions. My top recommendation for the best value for money cheap VPN is NordVPN.