5 Best Cheap VPNs Under $5/Month: Tested & Verified (2025)
Reading time: 15 min
Last Updated: Jul 23, 2025
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Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Content Manager
Premium security features don’t have to come with a premium price tag. There are reliable VPNs that offer strong encryption, fast speeds, and essential privacy features for less than $5/month. The challenge is finding ones that don’t cut corners on security to maintain low prices.
My team and I tested over 40 VPNs to find services that offer genuine value for money. We evaluated security features, checked for hidden fees and renewal price hikes, and verified performance across multiple devices. Many VPNs sacrifice key features, lack basic features, leak data, or generally provide poor performance.
CyberGhost emerged as the best cheap VPN in my tests. It consistently delivers high-quality security and performance while being an affordable option — a rare example of a budget VPN that doesn’t feel like you’re having to compromise. 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.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best Cheap VPNs in 2025
- CyberGhost — Most affordable premium VPN with streaming-optimized servers and a 45-day refund period for long-term plans.
- Private Internet Access (PIA) — Advanced security features and customizable settings at budget-friendly prices, but not the fastest speeds.
- Surfshark — Protect unlimited devices simultaneously without paying more, but renewal rates are higher.
- NordVPN — Premium security features with specialized servers, but more expensive than other options.
- PrivateVPN — Consistently low pricing without renewal increases, but has a smaller server network.
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.
The Best Cheap VPNs (Tested in 2025)
1. CyberGhost — Top Budget-Friendly Premium VPN
Key Features:
- 9,757+ servers in 100 countries
- Gaming and streaming-optimized servers deliver top performance at budget prices
- Connect 7 devices at the same time
- 24/7 live chat, email ticketing, and online knowledge base
- 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost offers premium VPN features at one of the lowest prices on the market. During my tests, its optimized streaming and gaming servers worked well — I streamed Netflix UK using a London server without any buffering and had low ping while playing Call of Duty: Warzone on European servers.
Speeds were reliable across both local and long-distance connections. Even on US servers over 5,000km away, my speeds were more than enough for HD streaming and lag-free gaming. This level of performance is remarkable considering its budget-friendly price point.
CyberGhost also stands out for its strong security. You get military-grade encryption, automatic kill switch protection, and IP and DNS leak prevention as standard. You also get the following features:
- Smart Rules — Automate connections when you open the app or connect to an unfamiliar network, ensuring you’re always protected.
- NoSpy servers — Owned and operated by CyberGhost in privacy-friendly Romania, these servers enhance your security by avoiding third-party data centers.
- Content blocker — Stops ads, trackers, and malicious sites from loading for smoother, safer browsing.
The only minor drawback is that its monthly cost is relatively expensive. However, this is easily resolved by opting for a longer plan, which makes it one of the most affordable premium VPNs available. You can try CyberGhost risk-free since it offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee on long-term plans.
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.
2. Private Internet Access — Advanced Features at Low Cost
Key Features:
- 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Highly customizable security settings let you balance speed and protection
- Supports unlimited simultaneous connections
- 24/7 customer support with live chat, email, and online FAQs
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Private Internet Access (PIA) offers advanced VPN features at a budget-friendly price point. I was impressed by the customizable options — for instance, I could switch between 128-bit and 256-bit encryption. 256-bit offers maximum security, but 128-bit gives me slightly faster speeds for casual browsing.
Speeds aren’t quite as fast as CyberGhost, but they’re more than sufficient for most online activities. In my tests, connections were fast enough for browsing, streaming, and torrenting. PIA could access Netflix US, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer without interruptions.
Alongside the standard security and privacy features, PIA also includes the following impressive tools in its apps:
- MACE ad and malware blocker — One of the best malware blockers in a VPN, this stops ads, trackers, and malware across your device.
- Port forwarding — Ideal for secure torrenting and improving the speed of P2P connections.
- Multi-hop and SOCKS5 proxy — Adds extra layers of privacy and helps overcome VPN blocks by routing your connection through multiple servers.
A minor drawback is that PIA is based in the US, which is part of the 14 Eyes intelligence alliance. However, its no-logs policy has been proven multiple times in court — when authorities requested user data, PIA had nothing to share.
PlA is an affordable option for long-term or month-to-month VPN plans. Plus, all subscriptions have a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test the service risk-free.
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.
3. Surfshark — No Device Connection Limits at an Affordable Price
Key Features:
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- Reliably fast speeds for streaming, torrenting, and browsing
- Supports unlimited device connections
- 24/7 live chat, email support, and online FAQs
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark is a low-cost VPN that lets you connect unlimited devices simultaneously, ideal for large households. In my tests, I connected eight different devices and could watch Netflix and video call without experiencing lag or interruptions.
Speeds were reliable overall, with local servers providing the fastest connections. Distant servers increased speeds, but they were still fast enough for UHD streaming and quick downloads. However, latency can be high, even on nearby servers — worth noting if you frequently play fast-paced online games, as this could interfere with reaction times.
Surfshark protects your data with features like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy independently audited by Deloitte. Your data stays private even though the service is based in the Netherlands (9 Eyes Alliance).
- Camouflage Mode — Hides VPN traffic from your ISP to avoid blocks and network restrictions.
- Bypasser — Split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which apps use your regular internet connection.
- CleanWeb — Blocks ads, trackers, and malware for more secure browsing.
The only drawback is that prices increase by about 25% after your first term, but renewal rates are still lower than many competitors. You can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
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.
4. NordVPN — Premium Security Features Worth the Price
Key Features:
- 7,287+ servers in 118 countries
- High-quality security and privacy features at a low initial cost
- Secures 10 devices simultaneously
- Support includes 24/7 live chat, emails, and knowledge base
- 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN stands out for advanced security and fast speeds at a low initial cost. In my tests, Threat Protection blocked malware, removed ads, and scanned downloads for threats. Double VPN routes traffic through 2 servers for extra privacy, reducing speeds only a fraction more than standard servers. You’ll also find optimized servers for P2P, Tor, and obfuscation.
Alongside AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and a zero-logs privacy policy, NordVPN also includes the following top tools to improve your privacy and security:
- Split tunneling — Choose which apps use the VPN connection to improve speeds and keep data use low.
- Meshnet — Create an encrypted private network to share files or access devices remotely.
- Dark Web Monitor — Alerts you if your credentials appear in data breaches.
The main drawback is the steep renewal rate increase, which can nearly double costs after the first term. Although the starting price is competitive, you’ll want to budget for higher long-term fees. You can try NordVPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee to see if it’s worth the investment for you.
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. PrivateVPN — Consistent Low Price Without Renewal Increases
Key Features:
- 200+ servers in 63 countries
- Subscription renewal doesn’t increase prices
- Supports 10 device connections
- 24/7 live chat, email ticketing, and online support site
- 30-day money-back guarantee
PrivateVPN’s transparent pricing stays the same after renewal, unlike most VPNs that increase their rates. The consistent monthly price makes it a budget-friendly choice.
In my tests, PrivateVPN delivered stable speeds with a small drop from my base connection on nearby servers. Distant connections had a bigger drop, which I expected. While its network is smaller — 200 servers — each location I tested provided reliable performance.
The apps balance simplicity with customization. “Simple View” makes quick connections effortless, while “Advanced View” lets you adjust encryption levels and protocols. Switching between modes was seamless.
As well as the expected security and privacy features, PrivateVPN also has the following:
- Stealth VPN — Masks VPN traffic as regular HTTPS, helping bypass VPN blocks.
- Port Forwarding — Improves P2P speeds and remote access with clear in-app setup.
- Dynamic Dedicated IP — Assigns a unique IP each session to avoid detection.
The only significant drawback is the smaller server network, but there are still plenty of connections. Try PrivateVPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee to see if it meets your needs.
PrivateVPN works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Chromebook, routers, and more.
Quick Comparison Table: Cheap VPN Features
| Device Connections | Speeds | Global Server Network | Money-back Guarantee | Streaming Performance | Security Features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CyberGhost | 7 | Fast | 9,757 servers in 100 countries | 45-days | Optimized streaming servers | Smart Rules and NoSpy servers |
| Private Internet Access | unlimited | Fast | 35,000 servers in 91 countries | 30-days | Works with major platforms | Customizable encryption |
| Surfshark | unlimited | Good | 3,200 servers in 100 countries | 30-days | Good HD streaming | CleanWeb ad and malware blocked |
| NordVPN | 10 | Fast | 7,287 servers in 118 countries | 30-days | Excellent 4K streaming | Threat Protection |
| PrivateVPN | 10 | Good | 200 servers in 63 countries | 30-days | Works with most services | Stealth VPN |
How I Tested and Ranked the Best Cheap VPNs
To find the best budget VPNs, I conducted hands-on tests over several weeks. I evaluated each service using strict criteria to ensure you get both affordability and high performance.
- Pricing and Value — I compared subscription costs, renewal rates, and money-back guarantees to find the best long-term deals.
- Speed — I measured download and upload speeds across local and long-distance servers to see how much each VPN reduced my base connection.
- Streaming Access — I tested whether each VPN could consistently access popular platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer without buffering.
- Security Features — I checked for essential protections like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and leak prevention, and verified advanced options like Double VPN or obfuscation.
- Ease of Use — I assessed how user-friendly the apps were on Windows and mobile, including setup, navigation, and customization options.
3 Easy Steps to Set Up a Cheap VPN
- Download a budget-friendly VPN. I recommend CyberGhost because it offers premium features at a low monthly cost.
- Install the app. Follow the prompts to set up your VPN and sign in with the login details you created when you subscribed.
- Connect and browse securely. Choose a server and click connect. You now have premium VPN protection without the premium price tag.
Tips to Get the Best VPN Deals
There are several ways to maximize your savings when purchasing a VPN subscription. Based on my experience reviewing dozens of services, here are the most effective strategies to get premium protection at budget prices:
Long-term vs Monthly Plans
The length of your subscription dramatically impacts the price you’ll pay for VPN service:
- Monthly plans offer maximum flexibility but typically cost $10-13 per month
- 6-month plans usually offer 25-40% savings compared to monthly billing
- 1-year plans often reduce monthly costs to $4-6 per month (50-60% savings)
- 2-3 year plans provide the best value at $2-3 per month (70-80% savings)
I recommend longer plans for most users since they offer significantly better value. All the VPNs on this list provide generous money-back guarantees (30-45 days), giving you plenty of time to test the service before committing. If you’re uncertain about a provider, you can essentially get a risk-free trial period before deciding to keep or cancel.
FAQs on the Best Cheap VPNs
What’s the average cost of a reliable VPN service?
Why do some VPNs cost more than others?
The price difference often comes down to brand recognition and extra features, not necessarily better core performance. Premium VPNs typically invest more in marketing and offer unique tools like specialized servers or proprietary protocols.
However, in my tests, some budget-friendly services delivered similar speeds and security. They keep prices low by focusing on essential features and efficient operations rather than costly add-ons.
Can I get a cheap VPN with monthly billing?
Get the Best Cheap VPN
A low-cost VPN doesn’t have to mean low quality. While many cheap services cut corners on security or hide renewal price hikes, the VPNs on this list maintain high standards while keeping prices under $5/month. I thoroughly tested each VPN’s features, speeds, and security to ensure you get real value for your money.
CyberGhost stands out as the best cheap VPN for its combination of premium features and budget pricing. Its optimized servers work reliably for streaming and gaming, and strong security tools keep your data protected. You can try CyberGhost risk-free with its 45-day money-back guarantee on long-term plans.
The Best Cheap 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.
