5 Best Cheap Monthly VPN Plans in 2025 — Pay as You Go
Reading time: 15 min
Last Updated: Jul 18, 2025
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![Sayb Saad]()
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![Sarah Frazier]()
Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Content Manager
The market is flooded with cheap VPNs that put your privacy at risk. Many budget options have weak encryption, leak your data, or secretly collect and sell your personal information. Even worse, some advertise unrealistic prices that jump significantly after the initial term.
I thoroughly tested over 40 VPNs to separate the trustworthy budget options from the dangerous ones. Only a handful provided reliable security features, fast speeds, and genuine value for money. My recommendations all offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees, plus the essential features you need for streaming, torrenting, and secure browsing.
ExpressVPN leads the pack with its balance of premium features and payment flexibility. Though not the cheapest upfront, its proven security and consistent performance provide the best long-term value. You can test ExpressVPN yourself risk-free with its 30*-day money-back guarantee. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WatchEverywhere, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best Cheap VPNs in 2025
- ExpressVPN — Provides the best overall value with its monthly plan and delivers fast connection speeds and unbreakable security at just $12.95 a month.
- CyberGhost — Includes optimized servers for streaming and torrenting, but its monthly plan has a shorter 14-day money-back guarantee and costs $12.99.
- Private Internet Access — Has a well-priced 1-month plan costing $11.99, but it’s based in the US, within the 5 Eyes Alliance’s jurisdiction
- NordVPN — Provides special security servers, but its apps aren’t the most user-friendly. NordVPN’s monthly plan costs $12.99
- Surfshark — Makes you invisible to snoopers on local LAN networks, but its 1-month plan is the most expensive at $15.45 per month.
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Monthly VPN Pricing Analysis
In July 2025, I dug into monthly VPN prices to find the best budget-friendly options. If you’re looking for a pay-as-you-go VPN, knowing the pricing trends can help you avoid overpaying. For VPNs with different pricing tiers, I picked the cheapest monthly plan and kept everything in USD, so it’s easy to compare.
| VPN Name | Monthly Plan Price (USD) | Relative Pricing Category |
|---|---|---|
| Astrill VPN | $30 | Very expensive |
| Surfshark | $15.45 | Expensive |
| Hotspot Shield | $12.99 | High-end average |
| IPVanish | $12.99 | Average |
| CyberGhost | $12.99 | Average |
| NordVPN | $12.99 | Average |
| Betternet VPN | $12.99 | Average |
| ExpressVPN | $12.95 | Average |
| Pure VPN | $12.95 | Average |
| Private Internet Access | $11.95 | Low-end average |
| Vypr VPN | $10.00 | Affordable |
| TunnelBear | $9.99 | Affordable |
| Proton VPN | $9.99 | Affordable |
| Hide.me | $9.95 | Affordable |
| PrivateVPN | $9.90 | Affordable |
| Windscribe | $9.00 | Affordable |
| Mullvad | $5.85 | Very affordable |
The Cheapest Pay-As-You-Go VPNs (Tested in 2025)
1. ExpressVPN — The Best-Value Monthly VPN With All-Around Performance
Key Features:
- Costs $12.95/month pay-as-you-go
- 3,300+ servers in 105 countries with built-in obfuscation
- Has AES 256-bit encryption, RAM-only servers, robust leak protection, and more
- Protects up to 8 devices simultaneously on a single subscription
- 24/7 customer support via live chat and email with an extensive online guides
- Comes with a 30*-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN’s 1-month plan is excellent value for money at just $12.95. You get military-grade security, max privacy, and excellent performance for bandwidth-heavy tasks. Other VPNs have similar pay-as-you-go prices, but their speed and security aren’t as good — that’s why ExpressVPN is my top choice.
Out of all the VPNs I tested, ExpressVPN was the fastest. From my base speed of 125 Mbps, I only experienced a 12% reduction when connected to nearby servers. Even on long-distance connections, my speeds stayed above 90 Mbps. However, I still recommend sticking to nearby servers to get the best performance.
It uses RAM-only servers that automatically wipe all data when powered off, and its no-logs policy has been independently audited by KPMG. ExpressVPN also offers perfect forward secrecy, which changes encryption keys periodically to keep your data secure.
While ExpressVPN is a little more expensive compared to other VPNs, its flexible payment options and frequent promos make it more accessible. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free with its 30*-day money-back guarantee. I tested this myself — after requesting a refund through 24/7 live chat, I received my money back in about a week.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WatchEverywhere, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2025 Update! You can subscribe to ExpressVPN for as low as per month with a 2-year purchase (save up to %)!! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Streaming, Torrenting, and Gaming
Key Features:
- Costs $12.99 for 1 month.
- 9,757+ servers in 100 countries and optimized connections
- Offers 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-log policy for safety
- Allows 7 simultaneous device connections on all plans
- Provides a 45-day money-back guarantee (14-day for the monthly plan)
CyberGhost’s optimized servers make it a great option for a monthly VPN. It has servers that are optimized for specific tasks, like gaming, torrenting, and streaming, ensuring you always get the best possible performance. I tried multiple optimized servers during my tests, and connection speeds never dropped more than 25% on these servers.
Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost offers airtight online protection with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and a verified no-logs policy. I also tested for DNS and IP leaks, and CyberGhost kept me hidden throughout my sessions.
At $12.99 for the 1-month plan, CyberGhost costs roughly the same as ExpressVPN. Although ExpressVPN delivers better value because of its faster speeds, CyberGhost’s features justify its cost. You can try CyberGhost risk-free, as the 1-month plan comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WatchEverywhere, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2025 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as per month with a 2-year purchase (save up to %)!! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. Private Internet Access — Affordable Monthly Plan With a Massive Server Network
Key Features:
- Priced at $11.99 for 1 month
- Gives you access to one of the most extensive server networks on the monthly plan
- Includes MACE for built-in ad, malware, and tracker blocking
- Offers 24/7 live chat and other support options
- Provides a 30-day money-back guarantee even on the monthly plan
PIA has one of the largest networks, with 35,000+ servers across 91 countries. I tested several random servers and none of them were overcrowded or slow — I always got a reliable connection with fast speeds. Connection speeds dropped roughly 30% during my tests, but I easily accessed my Netflix US account and enjoyed lag-free UHD streaming.
Alongside its strict no-logs policy and reliable leak protection, PIA has MACE to block ads, trackers, and malware while surfing the web. I put it to the test on several ad-heavy sites, and MACE blocked all ads and annoying autoplay videos on some websites. Plus, you can adjust encryption to optimize your connection for speed or security.
The 1-month price for PIA is among the cheapest on this list, costing just $11.99. You can also try PIA without risk, as it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re unsatisfied, you can ask for a refund by contacting PIA’s support through any available channel.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WatchEverywhere, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2025 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as per month with a 2-year purchase (save up to %)!! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
4. NordVPN — Special Security Servers At a Reasonable Monthly Cost
Key Features:
- Costs $12.99 for 1 month
- Gives you access to 7,287+ servers in 118 countries
- Military-grade encryption with Double VPN and Dark Web Monitor
- Secure up to 10 devices simultaneously on the monthly subscription
- Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN provides premium security features at a budget-friendly price point. Its Threat Protection feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware without needing to connect to a VPN server first. During my tests, it blocked over 90% of ads on news sites and prevented me from downloading a test file containing malware.
The Double VPN servers route your traffic through 2 encrypted connections instead of one. While testing, I connected through the Netherlands and Sweden Double VPN servers. My speed only dropped by 22% from the baseline, which is impressive considering the double encryption.
The only drawback is that its Windows app interface can feel a bit clunky with its map-based design. However, you can easily bypass this by using the searchable server list instead. NordVPN is one of the most affordable monthly VPNs and its pay-as-you-go prices start from $12.99 per month. plan risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, getting a refund is straightforward through 24/7 live chat.
NordVPN works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Nvidia Shield, Chromecast, Android TVs, routers, and more.
5. Surfshark — LAN Invisibility Hides You From Snoopers
Key Features:
- Costs $15.45 for 1 month
- Has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- Includes AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, CleanWeb, and MultiHop connections
- Allows unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Provides a 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark’s Invisibility on LAN hides your Windows or Android device from others on the same network. On public WiFi, this stops strangers from seeing your device in the connected devices list. It blocks local network discovery, so you can’t be targeted for file sharing or local attacks.
MultiHop lets you create custom double VPN connections, unlike most VPNs that restrict you to preset server pairs. I created several custom routes and chose the exact entry and exit points based on my needs. While Surfshark’s interface could be more intuitive when setting up these routes, the 24/7 live chat support helped me quickly figure it out.
The only issue is that Surfshark’s monthly plan is the most expensive on this list. So, it doesn’t deliver the same value as top choices like ExpressVPN. If you still want to buy it, you can take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee and try it risk-free
Surfshark works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Xbox, Firefox, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, Nvidia Shield, Chromecast, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
How Do Cheap VPN Features Compare?
| Server Network | Device Connections | Best For | Security Protocols | Money-back Guarantee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | 3,300+ in 105 countries |
8 | Overall reliability and consistent performance | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | 30* days |
| CyberGhost | 9,757+ in 100 countries |
7 | Streaming-optimized servers | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | 45 days |
| PIA | 35,000+ in 91 countries |
unlimited | Customizable security settings | WireGuard, OpenVPN | 30 days |
| NordVPN | 7,287+ in 118 countries |
10 | Advanced security servers | NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | 30 days |
| Surfshark | 3,200+ in 100 countries |
unlimited | Dynamic MultiHop and IP rotation | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | 30 days |
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best Cheap Monthly VPNs
To ensure I pick the best VPNs in 2025 with the highest quality and affordability, I checked each VPN against the following criteria:
- Affordable monthly rates — I chose VPNs that offer good value for money with their 1-month and long-term plans.
- Money-back guarantee — I picked VPNs with money-back guarantees to ensure you can try them without risk.
- Fast connection speeds — I found VPNs that deliver fast connection speeds, even on long-distance servers.
- Server variety — I selected VPNs offering a vast server network, letting you avoid overcrowding.
- Security and privacy — I prioritized VPNs with airtight encryption and strict no-logs policies, ensuring you stay safe and anonymous online.
Monthly VPN Plans vs Long-Term VPN Plans: Which is Better?
Monthly plans are generally more expensive. This pricing is deliberate and encourages you to commit for longer. Meanwhile, long-term subscriptions are a win-win. The VPN provider gets a stable revenue stream, and customers pay less. While long-term plans are usually a better buy, monthly plans might be more suitable if you are:
- Planning to travel. If you only need a VPN for a short time, a 1-month plan is a better option.
- Testing a VPN. A full month is a long time to test a VPN and see if it’s right for you, making these plans great for people who aren’t sure whether they want to commit.
- Waiting for a better deal. If you know a good Black Friday or holiday deal is coming, getting a 1-month plan is a good way to stay protected until you can get the discounted price.
Of course, there’s no right answer to which subscription plan is better, so the right choice depends on your situation. 1-month plans are better for short-term use, while yearly (or longer) subscriptions deliver better value if you want long-term online security at a discount.
FAQs: Cheap Monthly VPN Plans
What’s the cheapest reliable VPN service in 2025?
Are cheap VPNs safe to use?
Can I get a dedicated IP with a cheap VPN?
Which cheap VPNs work best for streaming?
Enjoy Premium Protection With a Cheap Monthly VPN Plan
All the VPNs on this list offer great value if you want a low-cost monthly plan without locking into a long contract. They’re fast, secure, and packed with features that protect your data whether you’re streaming, browsing, or using public WiFi.
That said, ExpressVPN is the best if you want premium features without compromises. It’s the only one on the list that combines top-tier privacy with consistently fast speeds on every server. Plus, if you ever decide to switch to a longer plan, you’ll get even better value.
You can test ExpressVPN yourself without any risk. All plans are backed by a 30*-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out and get a full refund if it’s not the right fit.
*Please note that ExpressVPN’s generous money-back guarantee applies to first-time customers only.
Summary — The Best Cheap Monthly VPNs in 2025
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
