5 Best Inexpensive VPNs in 2025 for Privacy on a Budget

Are premium VPNs too expensive for your taste? Want top-notch online security but don’t want to overspend? In 2025, you can have it all – privacy, speed, and streaming – without breaking the bank. This guide reveals the 5 best inexpensive VPNs in 2025 that deliver great value, so you can safeguard your data and unblock content on a budget.

Best Inexpensive VPN in 2025 – Top 5 Picks Compared

Below we highlight the five top affordable VPN services of 2025, each offering excellent value and features at a low price point. All of these VPNs are paid (no unreliable free plans) and provide strong privacy protections for the cost.

Comparison Table – Budget VPN Overview:

VPN Service	Price (Monthly, 2-yr plan)	Streaming Support	No-Logs Policy	Devices	Servers (Locations)
1.Surfshark	$1.99/mo	Yes – Netflix, Disney+	Yes – audited (no logs)	Unlimited	3200+ servers (100+ countries)
2. NordVPN	$3.39/mo	Yes – Netflix, Hulu	Yes – audited (Panama-based)	10	7,300+ servers (118 countries)
3. Private Internet Access	$2.19/mo	Yes – Netflix & more	Yes – verified no-logs	Unlimited	Servers in 90+ countries
4. CyberGhost	$2.19/mo	Yes – Netflix, BBC iPlayer	Yes – audited by Deloitte	7	9000+ servers (100+ countries)
5. Proton VPN	$3.59/mo	Yes – Netflix (10 libraries)	Yes – audited (open-source apps)	10	13,600+ servers (122 countries)

Pricing is based on lowest long-term plans as of 2025. All listed providers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Now, let’s dive into each of these VPNs to see what makes them a great value for money.

1. Surfshark – Feature-Rich Budget VPN with Unlimited Devices

Surfshark is one of the best inexpensive VPNs of 2025, combining rock-bottom pricing with a robust set of features. On a two-year plan, Surfshark costs about $1.99 per month (plus a few extra free months) – making it consistently cheaper than most competitors. Despite its low cost, Surfshark doesn’t skimp on security or performance. This provider is based in the British Virgin Islands and adheres to a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited. Notably, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections on one account, so you can protect all your devices without paying extra.

Key Features:

• Affordable Pricing: As low as ~$2/month on a 24-month plan (monthly plan costs ~$15). Great value given the premium features.
• No-Logs & Security: No identifying logs kept (audited to verify this). Uses AES-256 encryption and offers advanced tools like MultiHop (double VPN) and a kill switch for safety.
• Speed & Performance: Fast WireGuard protocol and 10 Gbps servers keep speed loss minimal. Surfshark retains ~92% of base internet speed on average, so streaming and browsing remain smooth.
• Streaming & P2P: Excellent streaming support – unblocks Netflix (15+ libraries), Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer and more. P2P/torrenting is allowed on all servers.
• Global Network: 3,200+ RAM-only servers across 100 countries. Servers running on volatile memory mean no data can persist on the server disk.
• Unlimited Devices: Connect unlimited devices at the same time under one subscription – ideal for families or multi-device users.
• Privacy Extras: Includes built-in ad blocker & malware filter (CleanWeb), “Camouflage Mode” to hide VPN use, and an Alternative ID tool that generates disposable emails/phone for privacy.

Supported Platforms: Surfshark has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and even smart TVs, Fire TV, and browser extensions. You can also set it up on routers to cover any device.

Pros:

• Extremely low cost long-term plans for the feature set.
• Unlimited simultaneous connections – no need to purchase multiple accounts.
• Strong privacy credentials: BVI jurisdiction, audited no-logs policy, RAM-only servers.
• Great for streaming – reliably unblocks major platforms (Netflix, Disney+, etc.) without buffering.
• User-friendly apps with extras like MultiHop (double VPN) and split tunneling.

Cons:

• Server network is large (3200+ servers) but still smaller than some competitors’ networks. (Coverage is 100 countries, which is excellent for most users.)
• Speeds are excellent for most uses, though a few servers can be slightly slower during peak times (still generally <10% speed drop).
• Lacks some specialized servers that other VPNs offer (e.g., no dedicated IP option in basic plan).

Surfshark is a well-rounded budget VPN that delivers premium features at a fraction of the price. It’s perfect if you have many devices or a family to cover, and want to stream and browse securely without worrying about simultaneous connection limits.

2. NordVPN – Premium Security Features at a Budget Price

NordVPN is a top-tier VPN that manages to offer premium features for a mid-range price when you opt for a long-term plan. With current deals, NordVPN’s Standard plan comes out to about $3.39 per month on a two-year subscription (around $75 upfront), which is an excellent value considering Nord’s reputation and capabilities. NordVPN is based in Panama – a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no data retention laws – and it maintains a zero-logs policy that has been verified through multiple independent audits.

Despite not being the absolute cheapest on this list, NordVPN offers more security extras than most. It has over 7,000 high-speed servers across 118 countries, including specialty servers for Double VPN (routing traffic through two VPN servers) and Onion over VPN (Tor network integration). NordVPN is also known for its blazing speeds and ability to unblock a wide range of streaming services.

Key Features:

• Strong Security & Privacy: Based in Panama (outside 5/9/14 Eyes alliances), audited no-logs policy. Uses AES-256 encryption and offers advanced protocols (including its WireGuard-based NordLynx for extra speed and security).
• Large Server Network: ~7,300 servers in 118 countries as of 2025. All servers run on RAM (diskless) for security. Offers specialized servers (Double VPN, Onion-over-VPN, P2P, obfuscated servers for VPN use in restrictive regions).
• Fast Performance: Known as one of the fastest VPNs – independent tests show NordVPN retains ~90–93% of base internet speeds. Excellent for HD/4K streaming and large downloads.
• Streaming & Torrenting: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and many more streaming platforms reliably. With so many servers/IPs, it avoids overcrowding and blocks. P2P/torrenting is allowed on designated high-speed servers.
• Security Extras: Includes CyberSec (ad/tracker/malware blocker), split tunneling, and a kill switch. Higher-tier plans bundle a password manager and encrypted cloud storage. Also supports Meshnet for secure device-to-device connections.
• Simultaneous Devices: Protect up to 6 devices (Standard plan) or 10 devices on newer plans as of 2025 – plenty for an average household.
• 24/7 Support: Offers 24/7 live chat support for any issues.

Supported Platforms: Native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, plus support for routers, Android TV, and browser extensions. NordVPN covers basically any device, including smart TVs and game consoles via router or SmartDNS.

Pros:

• Top-notch security features (Double VPN, Onion over VPN) not found in most cheap VPNs.
• Consistently fast speeds – great for streaming, gaming, and torrenting with minimal slowdowns.
• Extensive server network: 7,000+ servers in over 110 countries ensures lots of options and less congestion.
• Proven no-logs policy (subject to multiple third-party audits) gives confidence in privacy.
• Effective at unblocking streaming services globally (many Netflix regions, etc.).

Cons:

• Slightly higher price than some others on this list if not on a long plan (monthly plans are around $12) – but long-term discounts make it affordable.
• Limits to 6 simultaneous connections on standard subscription (which is usually enough, but some rivals offer more). (Note: NordVPN’s recent plans allow up to 10 devices in some cases.)
• Advanced features can be overkill for casual users who just need basic VPN protection – you pay a bit more for the extras even if you might not use them all.

NordVPN is ideal if you want premium VPN performance and security at a reasonable price. It’s a bit more investment than ultra-budget options, but it offers a higher tier of features and superb all-around quality – a great value pick for power users who still want to save money compared to services like ExpressVPN.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) – Cheapest VPN with Unlimited Connections

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a veteran VPN known for its combination of low prices and rich features. It consistently ranks as one of the cheapest reputable VPNs on the market. PIA’s best deal in 2025 is roughly $2.19 per month on a two-year + 2 months free plan (or about $56 billed every 26 months). Despite the bargain pricing, PIA delivers on privacy: it has a verified no-logs policy that has even been proven in court, and it now offers unlimited simultaneous device connections just like Surfshark.

PIA is headquartered in the United States, which some privacy purists note is not ideal (the US is part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance). However, PIA’s no-logging stance means even if served with a data request, it would have nothing to hand over – a claim backed up by real-world cases. PIA provides a large global server network, strong encryption choices, and is very customizable for advanced users.

Key Features:

• Ultra-Low Pricing: One of the cheapest VPNs available – $2.19/month on long-term plans. Even the month-to-month price ($11.95) is on the lower end of major VPNs.
• Unlimited Devices: Recently upgraded to allow unlimited simultaneous connections (previously 10) – great for covering all family devices with one account.
• No-Logs & Transparency: Strict no-logs policy, repeatedly proven (PIA has had instances where it could not produce logs for court cases). The apps are open-source, and PIA publishes regular transparency reports.
• Large Server Network: Servers in 91+ countries (and every US state). PIA doesn’t publicly state the exact server count (it’s thousands), but coverage is extensive worldwide. It also supports user-run “NextGen” network with RAM-only servers.
• Advanced Features: Highly configurable encryption (choose between AES-128/256, custom ports), two kill switch modes (regular and advanced), split tunneling, built-in ad/tracker blocker (PIA MACE), and option for a dedicated IP add-on.
• Streaming & Torrenting: PIA has improved its streaming game – it unblocks Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu and other services in many regions. It also allows P2P on all servers and even supports port forwarding (useful for torrent seeding).
• Speed: Solid speeds with WireGuard protocol – while not the absolute fastest, PIA performs well for HD streaming and downloads. In practice, speeds are more than sufficient for most users, though latency can be a bit higher on very distant servers.

Supported Platforms: Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, plus browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox, Opera). PIA is also one of few with a graphical Linux client. You can configure it on routers to cover smart TVs, consoles, etc. It even has command-line tools for advanced setups.

Pros:

• Very affordable multi-year plans – hard to beat on price-to-feature ratio.
• Unlimited device connections, making it cost-effective for large households or power users with many gadgets.
• Strong privacy features: Verified no-logs policy, open-source apps, and advanced security settings (custom encryption, kill switch, etc.)
• Massive server network spanning 90+ countries (including specialized servers for streaming and P2P).
• Bonus features: Built-in ad blocker (MACE) and the ability to get dedicated IP address if needed.

Cons:

• Based in the US, which falls under Five Eyes surveillance alliance. Privacy laws are not as favorable, though PIA’s no-logs stance mitigates this risk.
• Does not publicly disclose exact server count, only countries – some competitors tout their numbers, whereas PIA keeps it vague (though user estimates put it in the tens of thousands of servers).
• Interface can be a bit complex for newbies. The app offers many customization options that might overwhelm users who just want a one-click VPN. (That said, it also has simple default settings for ease of use.)
• While streaming support exists, a few less-common platforms might still block PIA occasionally. If streaming is your main use, other VPNs like NordVPN/Surfshark have slightly more consistent unblocking success in certain regions.

If you’re looking for a dirt-cheap VPN that still ticks the boxes on security and functionality, Private Internet Access is a top choice. It’s especially appealing for technically inclined users or anyone who needs to connect lots of devices. PIA proves that you can get a premium VPN experience at a bargain price.

4. CyberGhost – User-Friendly VPN with Specialized Streaming Servers

CyberGhost is a popular low-cost VPN that’s perfect for beginners and streaming fans. With prices starting around $2.19 per month on a two-year + 2 months free plan, CyberGhost is among the cheapest of the well-known VPN providers. It stands out by offering a very user-friendly interface and dedicated modes for streaming, torrenting, and even gaming. In fact, CyberGhost provides specialized servers optimized for streaming (labelled for specific platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, etc.), which makes it extremely easy to unblock your favorite content.

CyberGhost is based in Romania – a country outside the 14-Eyes alliances and with strong privacy laws. It has a no-logs policy audited by Deloitte in 2022 to confirm its privacy promises. It also boasts one of the largest server networks in the industry: over 9,000 servers across 100+ countries as of 2025. This VPN is not the most configurable, and it lacks some advanced features like multi-hop, but it covers all the essentials and then some, including a lengthy 45-day money-back guarantee for long plans.

Key Features:

• Budget Pricing: ~$2.19/month on the 2-year plan (billed ~$57 upfront). They also offer a 6-month plan at $6.99/month, and a monthly plan at $12.99 (note: the monthly option is relatively expensive and comes with only a 14-day refund).
• Streaming Optimized: Dedicated streaming servers for many services – Netflix (US/UK and other libraries), Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and more. These servers are regularly tested by CyberGhost to ensure they work. The app even has a “For Streaming” tab where you just select the service you want to watch.
• No-Logs, Audited: CyberGhost has a strict no-logs policy that’s been independently audited. It doesn’t store user data or browsing logs. Being Romania-based, it’s not subject to surveillance alliances, adding to trust.
• Large Server Network: 9,000+ servers in 100+ countries (with multiple locations per country in many cases). All servers are now RAM-only for security. You also get specialty servers: some are optimized for gaming (lower ping), some for P2P, and even NoSpy servers (extra security, hosted in Romania).
• Ease of Use: Very intuitive apps with a clean interface and one-click connect. It’s a great VPN for beginners. You can configure Smart Rules (automation) – e.g., have CyberGhost auto-connect on Wi-Fi networks. It supports split tunneling (on Windows and Android) and has an always-on kill switch for protection.
• Security: Uses strong AES-256 encryption; supports WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols. Has built-in ad/malware blocking for websites. While it doesn’t have multi-hop, it covers standard security needs well.
• Simultaneous Connections: Up to 7 devices can connect at once with one CyberGhost account. This is slightly above the industry norm of 5-6, though not unlimited. You can also install on a router to cover more devices.
• Performance: CyberGhost offers good speeds, especially on its WireGuard servers. In speed tests, it retains a high percentage of base speed (often 80%+). It’s not the absolute fastest VPN, but it’s more than capable of HD streaming and everyday use. Some distant servers may be slower, but you have many choices to find a fast connection.

Supported Platforms: Apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux. CyberGhost also has apps for Android TV and Amazon Fire TV Stick, plus browser extensions. It’s one of the few with a native app for smart TVs and streaming devices, making it convenient for streaming usage. You can also set it up on routers and even game consoles (via router or Smart DNS).

Pros:

• Very easy to use, even for VPN newbies – simple design and streaming/server filters make it plug-and-play.
• Excellent for streaming: special servers reliably unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, etc., taking the guesswork out of finding a working server.
• Huge server network with 100+ country coverage and many servers (minimizes congestion and offers location variety).
• Strong privacy stance: Romania jurisdiction, no-logs audited by Deloitte, and uses only RAM disk servers for enhanced data safety.
• Long money-back guarantee (45 days on 6-month or longer plans), giving you ample time to test risk-free. Also offers a 1-day free trial for Windows/macOS and 3-day trial on mobile.

Cons:

• Lacks some advanced features that power users might want (no multi-hop, no obfuscated mode labeled – though regular servers often work under censorship, and no built-in tool like double VPN). It focuses on ease of use over advanced configuration.
• Speeds are generally good but can be inconsistent on far-away servers. Not the absolute fastest VPN in all cases (a bit behind NordVPN/Surfshark in speed tests).
• The monthly plan is pricey at $12.99 and only has a 14-day refund. To get the real budget value, you have to commit to 6 months or 2 years.
• Based in EU (Romania) – while not a spying alliance country and has strong privacy laws, EU data protection might concern some (however, no evidence of data issues and no-logs audit alleviates this).

Overall, CyberGhost is a fantastic cheap VPN for streaming and everyday use, especially if you want something straightforward. It delivers a lot of value with its specialized servers and generous device policy. If you’re new to VPNs or just want hassle-free unblocking of content, CyberGhost is a budget-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on security basics.

5. Proton VPN – Privacy-Focused VPN with Affordable Plus Plan

Proton VPN is a unique entry on this list – it’s operated by the Swiss company behind Proton Mail, and it brings a strong privacy-first approach. Proton VPN isn’t the very cheapest by sticker price, but its Plus plan (the fully featured plan) can cost as little as $3.59 per month when you choose a two-year subscription. This places it squarely in the affordable range, considering the premium features it offers. Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, which has strict privacy laws and is outside any intelligence-sharing alliances. The service has a strict no-logs policy protected by Swiss law and confirmed by independent security audits. Uniquely, Proton VPN’s apps are all open-source and publicly audited, reflecting a high level of transparency.

Where Proton VPN shines is in its blend of privacy and performance features. It has a large and growing server network – currently 13,600+ servers in 122 countries for Plus users, which is one of the broadest networks in the world. It also offers advanced features like Secure Core (a double-hop VPN routing through privacy-friendly countries) for extra security. Proton VPN allows up to 10 devices on the Plus plan, and notably, it imposes no bandwidth limits (even its free tier has no data cap, though limited in other ways). Streaming and torrenting are fully supported on Plus servers, and Proton VPN’s speeds are competitive thanks to its use of the WireGuard protocol and a feature called VPN Accelerator for improved throughput.

Key Features:

• Strong Privacy & Transparency: No-logs policy backed by Swiss law – user activity is not monitored or stored. All apps are open-source and have undergone independent audits for security. Proton VPN also supports Perfect Forward Secrecy (frequently changing encryption keys) for enhanced security.
• Secure Core: An optional feature that routes your traffic through two servers (with the first server located in a hardened privacy-friendly location like Switzerland, Iceland, or Sweden) before exiting to the target country. This double VPN feature provides extra protection against sophisticated attacks. It’s especially useful if you’re very privacy-conscious or connecting from high-risk networks.
• Large Global Network: 13,600+ servers in 122 countries on the Plus network. (This includes both physical and secure smart routing servers, covering even unusual locations.) Proton VPN has dramatically expanded its network, rivaling the biggest players in sheer numbers. Free users get a smaller subset of servers, but Plus gives the whole network.
• Good Speeds with VPN Accelerator: Proton VPN’s adoption of WireGuard and their Accelerator technology means high performance. In tests, Proton VPN Plus achieved ~85–95% of baseline speeds in many regions – not the absolute fastest, but more than capable of 4K streaming and fast downloads. The VPN Accelerator uses custom optimizations and multi-threading to improve speeds on long-distance connections.
• Streaming & P2P: The Plus plan is streaming-friendly – Proton VPN can unblock major platforms including Netflix (it works with 10 different regional Netflix libraries), HBO Max, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, etc. (Note: streaming servers are marked and only available on paid plans). Torrenting is allowed on designated servers, and port forwarding is available for Plus users which can improve P2P performance.
• Security Features: Proton VPN offers a built-in NetShield feature (DNS filtering that blocks ads, trackers, malware). It has an always-on kill switch and leak protection (proved no IP/DNS leaks in tests). It supports Tor over VPN if you want to route traffic into the Tor network easily. Encryption is top-notch (AES-256 or ChaCha20) and protocols include OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. Proton also introduced a Stealth protocol for bypassing VPN blocks in restrictive countries.
• Ease of Use & Apps: Proton’s apps have improved a lot – sleek and modern interface on desktop and mobile. They include useful profiles (quick settings for certain scenarios). Since the company has a suite of services, you also get integration perks (e.g., a Proton Mail account comes with Plus). No concurrent connection issues with 10 devices allowed.

Supported Platforms: Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux (GUI), Android, iOS, and even Chromebook. Also supports routers (manual OpenVPN config or by flashing supported firmware) – and Proton offers a CLI for Linux power users. One standout: Proton VPN can be used on Android TV and has native support on that platform. All apps are open-source, which is rare.

Pros:

• Privacy powerhouse: based in Switzerland with strict privacy laws, no-logs, open-source apps, and features like Secure Core double VPN. Great choice for privacy enthusiasts.
• Robust free plan (if ever needed) with unlimited data – though free is limited in servers/speed, it shows the company’s commitment to accessibility. The paid Plus plan benefits from the same no-logs and transparency principles.
• Large server network rivaling even the biggest VPNs – 122 countries is market-leading coverage. This means more options to bypass geo-blocks and less crowding on each server.
• Strong streaming and torrenting support: Unlocks many Netflix regions and other services reliably. Plus servers maintain good speeds for streaming, and P2P is supported with port forwarding (rare among VPNs).
• Advanced security features like Secure Core, Tor over VPN, and NetShield ad-blocker provide layers of protection beyond a typical VPN. Also supports up to 10 devices, which is generous.

Cons:

• Price is slightly higher than some ultra-cheap VPNs when not discounted – $9.99/month if paid monthly, or ~$4–$5/month on annual plans. However, the 2-year plan brings it down to ~$3.59, which is very reasonable for what you get.
• Streaming performance is generally very good, but occasionally not as “plug-and-play” as others – you may need to try specific streaming-optimized servers. Some users report that while Proton works with Netflix, the speeds can vary by server (though it’s improved recently). In most cases it’s smooth, but top rivals like Nord/Surfshark might have a slight edge in consistency for streaming 4K.
• No live chat support (as of 2025) – Proton offers support via tickets/email and a knowledge base. This is a step behind competitors who have 24/7 live chat for quick help. For most, this isn’t a deal-breaker, but immediate support isn’t always available.
• The array of advanced features could be overkill for casual users just seeking basic VPN protection – if you won’t use things like Secure Core or don’t care about open-source, you might find a simpler service sufficient. But you’re essentially future-proofing your VPN by choosing one that excels in privacy.

Proton VPN is an excellent choice for those who prioritize privacy and security but still want a VPN that’s practical for everyday use (streaming, torrenting, etc.). Its Plus plan is now aggressively priced in the same range as other inexpensive VPNs, making Proton VPN a high-value option. You get the reassurance of Swiss privacy standards and a company with a proven track record in security. For users who want a trustworthy VPN for the long haul, Proton VPN Plus strikes a compelling balance between cost and top-tier features.

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