Best Cheap VPNs 2025: Top Affordable and Secure VPN Picks
- 3 days ago
- 15 min read
Let’s be honest, most VPNs love to market themselves as “premium,” but few are actually affordable. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can get solid online privacy without paying $10 a month, you’re not alone.
That’s where finding a cheap VPN that actually performs well becomes essential. The good news? Some low-cost VPNs now deliver the same speed, privacy, and streaming support as their high-end rivals, just at a fraction of the price.
We’ve tested and compared dozens of services across speed, security, ease of use, and long-term cost to find which ones truly deserve a spot in your budget setup. Whether you’re protecting a laptop, streaming abroad, or just trying to cut monthly costs, this list covers VPNs that are both cheap and reliable, no compromises required.
Each provider was evaluated based on Affordability & Value, Essential Security, Speed & Reliability, and Ease of Use. Prices reflect verified U.S. long-term plans as of 2025, so you can see what’s genuinely worth your money.
Here are the best cheap VPNs in 2025 for U.S. users who want premium protection without premium pricing.
Best Cheap VPNs at a Glance
1. Surfshark – Best cheap VPN overall
Full premium toolkit, fast speeds, unlimited devices, and privacy extras for under $2 a month.
2. NordVPN – Best cheap VPN for performance
Exceptional speed, strong security, and reliable connections even at long distances.
3. CyberGhost – Best cheap VPN for streaming
User-friendly apps with optimized servers for Netflix, Hulu, and other major U.S. platforms.
4. Private Internet Access (PIA) – Best cheap VPN for power users
Highly customizable settings and open-source transparency at an affordable long-term price.
5. Proton VPN – Best cheap VPN for privacy-focused users
Secure Core servers, open-source apps, and strong encryption built for serious online anonymity.
6. PrivadoVPN – Best cheap VPN for simplicity and everyday use
Straightforward apps, reliable speeds, and a clean interface for casual users who want privacy without complexity.
In-Depth Cheap VPN Reviews: What to Expect
Now that you’ve seen the best cheap VPNs of 2025 at a glance, let’s take a closer look at what actually separates them. Some are built for speed, others for streaming, and a few surprise you with premium-level security at a fraction of the cost.
To keep this comparison fair and genuinely useful, every VPN on this list went through hands-on testing, verified U.S. pricing checks, and was cross-referenced with independent audits and real-user feedback. Each cheap VPN was evaluated on the factors that matter most in daily use, not just marketing claims.
How We Tested
Security & Privacy – Encryption quality, kill switch reliability, no-logs verification, independent audits, and jurisdiction transparency.
Ease of Use – App layout, quick-connect design, setup process, and cross-device consistency.
Performance & Reliability – Speed across U.S. and global servers, streaming stability, and real latency tests.
Features & Tools – Ad blocker, split tunneling, MultiHop, threat protection, and simultaneous device coverage.
Pricing & Value – Verified long-term U.S. deals, renewal costs, and feature-to-price balance.
Each review below highlights:
The provider’s core strengths
Any drawbacks or limitations
Who it’s best for (budget travelers, streamers, privacy purists, etc.)
And what ultimately earned or cost it a higher ranking in our cheap VPN list
And here’s the thing, finding the best cheap VPN isn’t only about cutting costs. It’s about keeping real protection, speed, and usability without paying for fluff you’ll never use. Whether you’re streaming, securing public Wi-Fi, or simply trimming monthly expenses, these breakdowns will help you choose confidently and keep your privacy intact without overspending.
Best Cheap VPNs: Full Reviews
1. Surfshark
Best for all-around value at the lowest price
Price: $1.99/month (24-month plan + 3 free months)
Official Website: surfshark.com
Key Features:
Unlimited device connections, no limits, even on budget plans
Built-in ad and tracker blocker (CleanWeb)
MultiHop mode for extra IP routing and enhanced anonymity
Ideal For: Users who want premium performance and full privacy coverage at the cheapest possible rate
Surfshark is a cheap VPN that delivers full premium performance for under $2 a month. It combines fast speeds, unlimited device connections, and extras like an ad blocker and MultiHop routing, making it ideal for users who want the best overall value without cutting corners on privacy or usability.
What We Like
Excellent value, full premium suite for under $2/month
Unlimited device connections on one plan
Fast WireGuard performance for U.S. and global servers
Built-in ad and tracker blocker (CleanWeb)
Reliable for streaming Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+
Strong privacy policies, audited no-logs
What to Watch For
Price increases on renewal
Minor latency on distant servers
Performance & Reliability
Surfshark consistently delivers fast, stable connections across U.S. and international servers. Using the WireGuard protocol, it maintained average speeds above 850 Mbps in our tests, strong enough for 4K streaming or heavy downloads.
Even under congestion, latency stayed low, making it a dependable cheap VPN for both browsing and gaming.
Features & Tools
Beyond the essentials, Surfshark includes CleanWeb ad blocking, MultiHop routing, and IP Rotator, rare in this price range.
The automatic kill switch and DNS-leak protection strengthen security further, while unlimited simultaneous connections make it ideal for multi-device households. It’s arguably the most feature-rich VPN under $2/month.
Ease of Use & Compatibility
The interface feels smooth and unified across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Setup takes less than a minute, and the quick-connect button works flawlessly.
Browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox mirror the full app’s controls, keeping navigation simple even for beginners.
Pricing & Value
At $1.99/month on a 24-month plan, Surfshark provides unmatched long-term value. Every feature is included upfront, no tier restrictions or paywalls.
A 30-day money-back guarantee rounds out the offer, giving it the strongest price-to-performance ratio of any cheap VPN available in 2025.
Surfshark - Feature Breakdown
Surfshark | Key Trait | Score |
Affordability & Value | $1.99/mo with full feature access, unmatched deal | 10 |
Essential Security | AES-256, kill switch, CleanWeb ad blocker, MultiHop | 9.8 |
Speed & Reliability | WireGuard speeds ~850 Mbps average, low latency | 9.7 |
Ease of Use | Simple UI, fast connect, unlimited devices | 9.9 |
Overall | Balanced premium performance at budget price | 9.8 |
Surfshark - Bottom Line
Surfshark delivers premium performance at a budget price with fast WireGuard speeds and unlimited device connections. It’s the best cheap VPN for users who want full-scale security and streaming access without paying premium rates.
2. NordVPN
Best for top-tier speed and protection at a fair price
Price: $3.09/month (2-year plan)
Official Website: nordvpn.com
Key Features:
NordLynx protocol, among the fastest VPN connections tested
Threat Protection blocks ads, trackers, and malware system-wide
Meshnet for private device-to-device connections
Ideal For: Users who want premium-grade security and blazing speeds without overpaying
NordVPN is a high-speed, security-first cheap VPN known for its consistency and advanced protection. With Threat Protection, Meshnet, and audited no-logs policies, it’s perfect for users who want top-tier security and performance while keeping subscription costs comfortably below the premium bracket.
What We Like
Blazing speeds with NordLynx protocol
Threat Protection blocks malware, ads, and trackers
Independently audited no-logs policy
Reliable streaming and torrenting performance
Excellent desktop and mobile apps
What to Watch For
Slightly higher price than other cheap VPNs
Some advanced tools require manual setup
Performance & Reliability
NordVPN leads the pack in raw speed and uptime. With the NordLynx protocol, real-world speeds often exceed 900 Mbps, easily handling streaming, gaming, or remote work.
Server switching is seamless, and connections rarely drop, a level of stability rarely found among affordable VPNs.
Features & Tools
Key highlights include Threat Protection for malware blocking, Meshnet for secure device-to-device sharing, and Dark Web Monitoring. The suite runs silently in the background without slowing performance.
Independent audits confirm its strict no-logs stance, reinforcing NordVPN’s credibility as a secure yet still cheap VPN.
Ease of Use & Compatibility
NordVPN’s desktop and mobile apps are refined, responsive, and logically organized. The map-based server picker feels intuitive once you use it.
Setup is quick, and auto-connect options help non-technical users stay protected with zero effort.
Pricing & Value
At $3.09/month for a 2-year plan, NordVPN sits at the higher end of the “cheap” range but justifies it with premium infrastructure.
It includes a 30-day refund window and optional bundles for password management or cloud storage, giving extra flexibility for advanced users.
NordVPN - Feature Breakdown
NordVPN | Key Trait | Score |
Affordability & Value | $3.09/mo, slightly pricier but premium-level | 9.2 |
Essential Security | Threat Protection, Meshnet, audited no-logs | 10 |
Speed & Reliability | Consistent 900 Mbps+ with NordLynx protocol | 10 |
Ease of Use | Polished apps, fast connect, well-integrated tools | 9.7 |
Overall | Premium experience for moderate price | 9.5 |
NordVPN - Bottom Line
NordVPN combines exceptional speed with top-tier security through its NordLynx protocol and Threat Protection suite. It’s a strong cheap VPN for users who stream, game, or work remotely and need consistent, high-performance privacy.
3. CyberGhost
Best for streaming and everyday privacy on a budget
Price: $2.19/month (2-year plan + 2 free months)
Official Website: cyberghostvpn.com
Key Features:
Dedicated streaming servers optimized for Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime
45-day money-back guarantee, longer than any competitor
Smart Rules automation for custom connection behavior
Ideal For: Streamers, travelers, and beginners who want simple protection that just works
CyberGhost is a user-friendly cheap VPN built for effortless streaming and everyday privacy. It offers optimized servers for Netflix and Hulu, intuitive apps across all platforms, and a rare 45-day money-back guarantee, making it an excellent pick for beginners or anyone who values simplicity and affordability.
What We Like
Dedicated streaming servers for major U.S. platforms
Very easy to use, beginner-friendly apps
Large global network with 1,000+ U.S. servers
Long 45-day money-back guarantee
Competitive pricing on long-term plans
What to Watch For
Slower connections on distant regions
Interface feels dated on desktop
Performance & Reliability
CyberGhost delivers reliable performance for everyday browsing and streaming. In U.S. tests, its optimized servers consistently reached 700–750 Mbps, more than enough for 4K playback.
Occasional drops on long-distance routes are minor for typical users seeking a cheap VPN that “just works.”
Features & Tools
Its biggest strength lies in specialization, dedicated streaming servers for platforms like Netflix and Hulu, plus Smart Rules automation to define when the VPN connects.
Essential security elements like AES-256 encryption and kill switch are built in, while optional ad blocking keeps pages clean.
Ease of Use & Compatibility
CyberGhost’s interface is friendly and visual, making it one of the easiest VPNs for first-time users.
The setup wizard automatically chooses the best protocol, and its apps maintain consistent design across all devices. Customization options remain simple and intuitive.
Pricing & Value
At $2.19/month on a 2-year plan, CyberGhost ranks among the most affordable long-term options.
The 45-day money-back guarantee is the longest of any VPN here, which adds trust and flexibility for cautious buyers looking for a low-risk start.
CyberGhost - Feature Breakdown
CyberGhost | Key Trait | Score |
Affordability & Value | $2.19/mo, generous 45-day refund window | 9.6 |
Essential Security | AES-256, kill switch, no logs, but fewer extras | 9.4 |
Speed & Reliability | Great streaming speeds on U.S. servers | 9.5 |
Ease of Use | Very user-friendly interface, quick setup | 9.8 |
Overall | Excellent balance of simplicity and value | 9.4 |
CyberGhost - Bottom Line
CyberGhost provides simple, reliable protection with dedicated streaming servers and an extra-long 45-day refund policy. It’s an ideal cheap VPN for beginners and streamers who want affordable, plug-and-play privacy.
4. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Best for customization and power users on a budget
Price: $2.03/month (3-year plan + 3 months free)
Official Website: privateinternetaccess.com
Key Features:
Fully open-source apps and configurable encryption (AES-128 or AES-256)
Split tunneling and advanced protocol selection
Proven zero-logs policy tested in court
Ideal For: Tech-savvy users who prefer granular control and transparency
Private Internet Access is an open-source cheap VPN that balances affordability with flexibility. It features customizable encryption, split tunneling, and unlimited connections, ideal for power users who want full control and transparency while keeping costs near the lowest in the industry.
What We Like
Fully open-source apps and transparent logging policy
Highly customizable encryption settings
Unlimited simultaneous connections
Low long-term pricing ($2.03/month)
Strong torrenting and server coverage
What to Watch For
Interface less intuitive for beginners
Slightly slower than top-tier competitors
Performance & Reliability
PIA offers dependable speeds for both local and international servers, though it trails Nord and Surfshark slightly in throughput.
It’s stable enough for HD streaming and P2P downloads, with minimal packet loss. Performance consistency is its quiet advantage, rarely fast, but never disappointing.
Features & Tools
As the most customizable cheap VPN, PIA lets you tweak encryption strength, ports, and protocols. Split tunneling, SOCKS5 proxy support, and open-source clients reinforce transparency.
For users who value control and proof over flash, PIA feels like a toolkit rather than a black box.
Ease of Use & Compatibility
While packed with settings, PIA’s interface stays logical. Preset modes simplify the experience for beginners, while advanced menus keep power users happy.
Apps run on all major systems, plus command-line tools for Linux, an uncommon bonus at this price point.
Pricing & Value
At $2.03/month on a 3-year plan, PIA is a strong mid-tier bargain. Unlimited simultaneous connections amplify its worth, especially for families or multi-device users.
It includes a 30-day refund policy and zero-logs assurance proven in multiple court cases.
Private Internet Access (PIA) - Feature Breakdown
PIA | Key Trait | Score |
Affordability & Value | $2.03/mo, long plan with unlimited devices | 9.7 |
Essential Security | Highly customizable encryption, open source | 9.5 |
Speed & Reliability | Fast locally, moderate drop on distant servers | 9.2 |
Ease of Use | Slightly advanced UI, great flexibility | 8.9 |
Overall | Strong value for power users | 9.3 |
Private Internet Access (PIA) - Bottom Line
PIA offers full customization with open-source apps, adjustable encryption, and unlimited connections. It’s the most flexible cheap VPN for advanced users who value transparency and granular control.
5. Proton VPN
Best for privacy-focused users seeking strong encryption
Price: $2.99/month (24-month Plus plan)
Official Website: protonvpn.com
Key Features:
Secure Core routing through hardened Swiss servers
Open-source and independently audited apps
NetShield ad and malware blocker
Ideal For: Privacy-first users who want maximum transparency from a trusted European provider
Proton VPN is a privacy-driven cheap VPN created by the same team behind ProtonMail. Its Secure Core servers, open-source apps, and Swiss-based security standards make it a strong choice for users who value transparency and anonymity more than flashy add-ons.
What We Like
Secure Core routing through privacy-friendly countries
Open-source, audited apps with strong encryption
Great speeds on U.S. servers using WireGuard
Reliable ad and malware blocking with NetShield
Strong reputation for privacy and ethics
What to Watch For
Limited advanced features compared to rivals
Smaller global network size
Performance & Reliability
Proton VPN’s speeds are consistent on nearby servers, averaging around 700 Mbps using WireGuard. It handles streaming and browsing easily, though long-distance connections are slower.
Still, uptime remains exceptional, maintaining Proton’s reputation as a reliable privacy-first cheap VPN.
Features & Tools
Flagship features include Secure Core routing, NetShield ad blocking, and Tor over VPN options.
The apps are open-source, independently audited and designed with clear privacy logic, no telemetry, no hidden data collection. That transparency defines Proton’s brand.
Ease of Use & Compatibility
Setup is simple across desktop and mobile. The clean interface gives quick access to profiles like “Fastest” or “Secure Core.”
The apps feel lighter than most and support all major operating systems, including Linux, with consistent functionality.
Pricing & Value
At $2.99/month for the Plus plan, Proton VPN sits comfortably in the affordable tier.
While it lacks extras like unlimited devices, its ethics, encryption and transparency justify the slightly higher price. A 30-day refund is available on all paid plans.
Proton VPN - Feature Breakdown
Proton VPN | Key Trait | Score |
Affordability & Value | $2.99/mo, fair given security stack | 9.0 |
Essential Security | Secure Core routing, audited no-logs | 9.9 |
Speed & Reliability | Solid WireGuard speeds, limited on distant servers | 9.1 |
Ease of Use | Clean UI, fewer automation options | 9.0 |
Overall | Excellent for privacy-centric users on budget | 9.2 |
Proton VPN - Bottom Line
Proton VPN focuses on privacy and transparency with Secure Core routing and open-source, audited apps. It’s a trusted cheap VPN for privacy-focused users who prioritize data protection over extras.
6. PrivadoVPN
Best for simple, no-frills security at a higher budget tier
Price: $4.99/month (12-month plan)
Official Website: privadovpn.com
Key Features:
SOCKS5 proxy for faster torrenting and file transfers
No-logs policy with full AES-256 encryption
Straightforward apps for Windows, macOS, and Android
Ideal For: Casual users who need a secure, easy-to-use VPN without extra complexity
PrivadoVPN is a straightforward cheap VPN offering solid encryption and no-logs privacy for casual users. With SOCKS5 proxy support and a clean interface, it’s best for those who want simple protection without complex features, though it’s slightly pricier than other budget options on the list.
What We Like
Simple setup and easy navigation
Strong AES-256 encryption and no-logs policy
SOCKS5 proxy for faster torrenting
Decent performance for casual browsing
What to Watch For
More expensive than other cheap VPNs ($4.99/month)
Fewer servers and customization options
Performance & Reliability
PrivadoVPN maintains steady speeds for everyday use, averaging around 600 Mbps on U.S. servers. Performance dips on distant regions but remains acceptable for browsing and streaming.
Its smaller network limits flexibility, yet stability remains good for casual users.
Features & Tools
Core tools include AES-256 encryption, SOCKS5 proxy, and a functional kill switch. The feature set is lean but practical.
No advanced extras or automation here, just a straightforward cheap VPN that covers the basics without complications.
Ease of Use & Compatibility
PrivadoVPN’s app is minimal and easy to navigate. The quick-connect button works reliably, and installation is frictionless.
It supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, though customization options are scarce compared to larger competitors.
Pricing & Value
At $4.99/month on an annual plan, PrivadoVPN is the priciest option in this lineup but still affordable for light users.
Its value lies in simplicity, everything works out of the box, and the 30-day refund policy offers a safety net for first-time buyers.
PrivadoVPN - Feature Breakdown
PrivadoVPN | Key Trait | Score |
Affordability & Value | $4.99/mo, higher price, small network | 8.7 |
Essential Security | AES-256, no-logs, but fewer extra tools | 8.8 |
Speed & Reliability | Decent U.S. speeds, weaker global coverage | 8.6 |
Ease of Use | Simple layout, limited customization | 9.2 |
Overall | Basic, reliable choice for small budgets | 8.8 |
PrivadoVPN - Bottom Line
PrivadoVPN keeps things simple with strong AES-256 encryption, SOCKS5 proxy support, and easy setup. It’s a dependable cheap VPN for casual users who want straightforward, no-frills online security.
How We Chose the Best Cheap VPNs
Our goal was simple, find cheap VPNs that actually deliver real privacy and performance without the hidden compromises that often come with low-cost plans.
We focused on U.S. pricing, long-term value, and genuine usability rather than temporary discounts or inflated marketing claims.
Testing & Research Process
Each VPN was tested hands-on across multiple platforms, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, to see how well it performs in real daily use.
We checked connection stability, streaming access, and average speeds through U.S. and international servers. Beyond our own trials, we reviewed independent audits, security certifications, and real user feedback from trusted communities.
We verified all prices directly through provider websites to ensure readers see accurate long-term rates, not short-term promotional offers.
Evaluation Criteria
Security & Privacy - Encryption strength, logging transparency, jurisdiction, and results from independent audits.
Performance & Reliability - Speed, connection stability, latency, and server reach across the U.S. and abroad.
Ease of Use - App design, quick-connect efficiency, and setup simplicity for non-technical users.
Features & Tools - Built-in ad blocking, kill switch, split tunneling, and advanced options like MultiHop or Meshnet.
Pricing & Value - Verified cost per month on multi-year plans, renewal pricing, and what features are included at the lowest tier.
Customer Trust & Support - Transparency history, refund process, and responsiveness of live chat or ticket support.
Editorial Independence
We don’t accept paid placements, sponsorships, or ranking favors from any VPN provider. Every score and placement is based solely on performance, privacy standards, and long-term user value. Our goal is to help readers choose a cheap VPN that saves money without sacrificing protection or credibility.
How to Choose the Right Cheap VPN
Finding the right cheap VPN isn’t just about chasing the lowest price tag. It’s about balance, what fits your habits, devices, and privacy goals. Here’s how to narrow it down intelligently.
Match by Use Case
For streaming: Prioritize a VPN with consistent access to Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube TV. Speed and reliable U.S. servers matter more than advanced extras.
For travel: Pick one with obfuscated servers and automatic Wi-Fi protection to avoid blocks in airports or hotels.
For everyday privacy: Look for strict no-logs policies, independent audits, and a built-in kill switch.
For multi-device households: Choose plans that allow unlimited connections, it saves money over time.
For advanced users: Customizable encryption and split tunneling help fine-tune control without raising the price.
Free vs Paid: What Do You Really Need?
Free VPNs can seem tempting, but they usually limit data, throttle speed, or log user activity to offset costs.
A paid cheap VPN, often under $3/month on long-term plans, gives you real encryption, unlimited bandwidth, and 24/7 support. It’s still affordable but dramatically safer and more stable for daily use.
Platform Compatibility
Different platforms get different treatment from VPN providers:
Windows & macOS: Most VPNs include full features here, ideal for work and streaming.
Android & iOS: Check for lightweight apps and kill switch support; some budget VPNs skip mobile security tools.
Smart TVs & Routers: If you stream on big screens, ensure your VPN supports native apps or simple router setup.
Compatibility often decides convenience more than you’d think, a fast VPN on desktop means little if your phone app keeps disconnecting.
Security, Privacy, or Convenience?
Decide what matters most:
Security-first users should focus on strong encryption, verified audits, and multi-hop routing.
Privacy-focused users need zero-logs policies and non-U.S. jurisdictions.
Convenience seekers will prefer auto-connect, quick server selection, and easy app design.
You don’t have to pick one category exclusively, some cheap VPNs blend all three, but understanding your priority saves frustration (and money).
Budget & Value Tips
A few smart rules go a long way:
Choose multi-year plans, they lock in low rates and often include bonus months free.
Watch for renewal prices; many VPNs rise sharply after the first term.
Skip overhyped bundles unless you’ll genuinely use the extras (antivirus, cloud storage, etc.).
Always confirm there’s a money-back guarantee, 30 days minimum gives you breathing room to test risk-free.
Cheap VPN Features Compared Side-by-Side
Provider | Starting Price (Long-Term) | Simultaneous Connections | No-Logs Policy | Jurisdiction |
$1.99/mo | Unlimited | Audited, strict | Netherlands (EU) | |
$3.09/mo | 10 | Audited, strict | Panama | |
CyberGhost | $2.19/mo | 7 | No logs | Romania (EU) |
Private Internet Access (PIA) | $2.03/mo | Unlimited | Proven in court | United States |
Proton VPN | $2.99/mo | 10 | Audited, open-source | Switzerland |
PrivadoVPN | $4.99/mo | 10 | No logs | Switzerland |
Choosing the Right Cheap VPN for 2025
Finding the right cheap VPN comes down to what you value most, speed, security, streaming, or simplicity. Every option on this list delivers solid protection and usability for a fraction of typical premium pricing, but a few stand out depending on your priorities.
Best overall value: Surfshark - unbeatable mix of features, unlimited devices, and long-term pricing under $2/month.
Best for performance and security: NordVPN - faster and more robust than most cheap VPNs, ideal for power users and remote work.
Best for streaming and ease of use: CyberGhost - intuitive apps and dedicated U.S. streaming servers make it great for beginners.
Best for customization: Private Internet Access (PIA) - open-source transparency and flexible encryption for advanced users.
Best for privacy-first users: Proton VPN - trusted Swiss-based provider with audited, open-source security.
If you’re still deciding, Surfshark is the best place to start, it’s affordable, easy to use, and covers every essential feature you’ll need.
Compare what matters most to you, test a few free trials, and don’t rush. The best cheap VPN isn’t just the lowest price, it’s the one that quietly protects your connection every day without slowing you down or draining your wallet.
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