Best Cheap VPN in 2026: The Most Affordable Services (From $2/mo)

With inflation spreading rapidly worldwide, people deliberately turn to the cheapest VPN services. An affordable VPN sounds fantastic. You get it for a low price but still get to enjoy all the fantastic VPN benefits. But this begs a logical question: does such a thing exist? As much as it sounds hard to believe, it does.

Our team of experts agrees on one thing: most VPNs are cheap! Some are more affordable, some less, but the typical price of a few monthly dollars isn’t such an expense. You likely spend that much on coffee, junk food, and whatnot. While most VPNs are inexpensive, you want those that really won’t break the bank.

In this list of the least expensive VPN providers, we’ll review our favorite picks, examine their prices, and see what they offer. Their prices will start at a measly $1.99 per month, so you’re getting a great value for money.

Best Cheap VPN Providers for 2026: Our 6 Favorites

The goal of this list of the cheapest VPNs isn’t to necessarily pick the most affordable ones. We are looking for certain merits, such as safety, privacy, performance, streaming prowess, and more. We won’t be ranking budget VPN services solely on price, but rather on quality, which is a by-product of our ranking system.

Simultaneously, these providers are inexpensive, as you’ll soon see, and their price ranges from $1.99 to $3.59 per month at the time of writing. One more thing. Prices are accurate at the time of writing, too. For the newest deals and discounts on each provider, use the provided links below.

The best cheap VPN providers in 2026 include:

1. NordVPN

The best-value VPN on this list is NordVPN. It’s not the cheapest, but its qualities are far above any other service. NordVPN starts at $3.39 per month for the biennial Basic plan. For the price, this provider offers the best performance. Users can enjoy 8,900+ servers in 130 countries, handy for accessing geo-restricted sites

Another perk is the speed. NordVPN is the fastest cheap VPN we have tested. With the NordLynx protocol, you’ll enjoy stable performance for torrenting, streaming, and gaming (check our favorite gaming VPNs here). NordVPN prides itself on being secure. It has 256-bit encryption and a kill switch to keep things private.

The VPN uses Double VPN servers for two encryption layers. Also, there’s Threat Protection Pro to fry malware and trackers on arrival. NordVPN doesn’t keep any logs, so despite being one of the cheapest VPNs, it won’t sell your private data. This VPN allows for 10 simultaneous connections and works on all devices.

In addition, it supports Meshnet for remote control and access. NordVPN is a great all-round budget VPN that ticks all the boxes. Being easy to set up and use, we see no reason not to test it. Plus, the cheap VPN subscription offers a myriad of bonus security features, making it a 360-degree cybersecurity package.

Its most affordable deal can be obtained below, where you can take advantage of a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re enticed by the #1 cheap VPN in 2026, it doesn’t get better than this. Find out more about its numerous features in our full review of NordVPN to learn why it’s the best low-cost VPN in 2026.

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2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is another cheap VPN worth considering. Years ago, we couldn’t call it affordable, but nowadays, its biennial Basic plan at $2.79 per month with four free months is outstanding. Like other cheap VPN providers, ExpressVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free testing. But what about the rest?

Glad you asked. ExpressVPN almost rivals NordVPN in speed, using the powerful Lightway Turbo protocol. Moreover, it excels at connection stability, thanks to 3,000+ servers in over 160 locations. ExpressVPN doesn’t hold back on security, with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and tracker protection.

This reputable, cheap VPN doesn’t keep logs, having over twenty audits to show for it. Plus, ExpressVPN is highly reliable for unblocking streaming services, so Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu fans will appreciate it. On the other hand, it’s also completely optimized for torrenting, with top-tier performance and all-around security.

ExpressVPN offers three plan tiers, but the Basic plan is sufficient for most. However, there’s the Advanced plan, at about $0.80 per month more, with 12 simultaneous connections and higher discounts on ExpressVPN’s Aircove routers. Either way, you’ll never spend a fortune on ExpressVPN’s feature-rich plans.

Interested? Click below to test it risk-free. Alternatively, click here to read our ExpressVPN review for 2026 and learn more about its other vital aspects.

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3. Private Internet Access

PIA has an affordable 2-year plan at $2.03/mo with a few free months, making it the cheapest VPN in 2026, next to Surfshark. It’s no slouch, though. PIA supports unlimited simultaneous connections and offers apps for Windows, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Android. Security-wise, it’s more than phenomenal.

The provider’s audited no-logging policy reassures doubtful users. Above all, the service relies on bank-grade encryption and WireGuard. Other features like PIA MACE (ad-blocking), split tunneling, and SOCKS5 make PIA safe to use. MultiHop is also there, with Shadowsocks obfuscation for bypassing censorship

PIA works with Netflix and offers many dedicated P2P servers. This inexpensive VPN from the USA even offers dedicated IP addresses for a fairly low price. PIA’s Dedicated IPs are cheap, but the downside is slower speed. On the flip side, Private Internet Access uses RAM-based servers and has a state-of-the-art Private DNS.

This prevents third parties’ involvement. With the unbeatable price comes a few downsides, but nothing to worry about. Private Internet Access won’t work in China, unlike NordVPN, the best VPN in China. Another compromise is a slightly outdated Windows client that can be clunky. Is this a deal breaker?

Considering it is among the VPNs with the least expensive subscription plans, certainly not. Private Internet Access can be yours at $2.03 per month, again, with a 30-day refund policy, 24/7 live chat service, and plenty of other notable features. Click below to get this fantastic discount and test the VPN risk-free.

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4. Surfshark

Surfshark offers flexible and competitive pricing, ranking it #4 on the list of the best cheap VPNs in 2026. It has a heap of features, one of which is MultiHop for doubling encryption and providing top-to-bottom privacy. Another is a private browser for untraceable web browsing. Surfshark goes all in, guns blazing.

As one of the cheapest VPNs, it supports unlimited simultaneous connections and native apps for Windows, iOS, Fire TV Stick, tvOS, and other devices. Remember that Surfshark costs only $1.99 per month, so its price is very affordable. This doesn’t affect the performance, as the VPN is still fast and offers WireGuard.

Surfshark is one of the top options for Netflix, too. In our test, the VPN unblocked around 30 libraries, putting it above other cheapest VPNs streaming-wise. While not the fastest, Surfshark is stable enough, with over 4,500 servers in 100 countries. All servers are RAM-based, and the VPN offers Static and Dedicated IPs.

Users can also purchase an antivirus in the Surfshark One plan for threat protection. We love Surfshark’s Smart DNS, which allows you to stream without setting up the VPN. Its also lets you access the NoBorders mode for circumventing censorship. A unique feature is the IP Rotator, which periodically alters your IP for more privacy.

Speaking of that, Surfshark is another no-log VPN. Despite the Dutch jurisdiction, Surfshark’s log-free nature never subsided. This is undoubtedly among the cheapest, yet most capable VPNs you can get, ranking very high on this list.

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5. Proton VPN

Proton VPN isn’t always our go-to provider, but it’s among the cheapest VPNs with some of the best features. Proton VPN offers more than 17,000 servers with unlimited bandwidth and admirable performance. Above all, this budget VPN relies on privacy and security. It’s a Swiss service, which confirms its no-logging claims.

However, the VPN also uses advanced technologies, such as full-disk encryption instead of RAM servers, AES-256 encryption with a kill switch, IP/DNS leak protection, and Secure Core servers to fortify your privacy. Proton VPN’s NetShield blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites for a safer and cleaner internet.

Furthermore, there’s StealthVPN (obfuscation) to get over firewalls. Streaming and P2P are its strengths, with dedicated servers for both. Plus, there’s port forwarding to speed up P2P downloads. Unlike the other low-cost VPNs, it takes one step forward and introduces a free version with no data cap.

Similar to Hide.me, one of the best free VPNs. Proton VPN also offers its VPN Accelerator to counter ISP throttling and provide a better internet experience. Its apps span all platforms, and the VPN supports ten simultaneous connections, like NordVPN, our favorite affordable VPN service. So, what about its price?

Proton VPN’s discount on the 2-year plan drops the price to under $3.60 per month. A 30-day money-back guarantee spices up the deal. As you can see, Proton VPN costs almost as much as NordVPN, slightly more. It’s the most expensive pick on the list, but that isn’t the right word, as the price is still extremely low.

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6. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is a great option and a famous, cheap VPN with exceptional value for money. This low-cost VPN has a 2-year plan at $2.03 per month with 4 free months. For the price, you get 12,000+ servers in 100+ countries, unlimited bandwidth, and support for all platforms and devices. Don’t let the low price fool you.

Numbers aside, CyberGhost is from Romania, which screams privacy. Its NoSpy servers are particularly impressive, as CyberGhost owns and operates them for better anonymity. As expected, it relies on 256-bit encryption and uses WireGuard to provide ample performance and speeds for all activities.

We like CyberGhost’s unique domain split tunneling, which lets specific websites bypass the VPN tunnel. Moreover, CyberGhost’s streaming/torrenting servers make it one of the most versatile VPNs. It has designated servers for BBC, ABC, Netflix, and other streamers. At the same time, P2P servers are fast and secure.

This is also partly because of a no-logging policy verified by Deloitte. Like most other cheap VPNs today, CyberGhost includes an ad blocker, antivirus, and even Dedicated IP addresses. The latter two are optional. Its Smart DNS is the best around, with IP addresses in different countries for unlimited streaming.

Sadly, CyberGhost lacks obfuscation, so it’s not usable in China. The silver lining is how welcoming CyberGhost feels. Think about its 45-day refund policy with the low-cost 2-year plan. This budget VPN is close to being the cheapest option, and with notable qualities, it earned its place on this list without a doubt.

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How Did We Choose the Best Cheap VPN Services?

Selecting the best overall VPN is easier when the price variable is out of the way. However, for this ranking of the least expensive providers, we altered our perspective to provide you with excellent services while keeping the price low. Here’s what we considered when we made the list of the top low-cost VPNs.

🔐 Security & Privacy

No matter the list, these two are always #1. Why is privacy important? Think about this. A VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. The word Private means the network should exude privacy by not keeping logs and using advanced measures. All providers on this list have advanced security and privacy measures.

RAM servers, bank-grade encryption, modern protocols, and no-logs policies. These features aren’t only for your security. They also make you more private by preventing your sensitive data from leaking to the public. These are the best and cheapest VPNs around, but they don’t skimp on this aspect.

This usually isn’t the case when you look at many other providers that are not expensive. On the security and privacy front, NordVPN takes the win, which is why it’s at the forefront of the list. Others are also good, but not as impressive.

⚡ Performance

The performance is another crucial aspect of our top-rated inexpensive providers. Think about the best value for money provider like NordVPN. Its speeds are the fastest we tested. NordVPN has excellent performance for any online scenario: streaming, torrenting, browsing, gaming, and so on.

All providers on our list have 10 Gbps servers (some even go up to 40 Gbps), WireGuard (or a derivative), and carefully woven server fleets to allow for stable and fast speeds. Speed, with safety and security, and an unbeatable price, is a perfect combo. Luckily, such a combo can be found in our top six cheapest VPNs.

🧑‍💻 Streaming & Torrenting

P2P and streaming support are characteristic of paid providers. All will work with Netflix or BBC iPlayer, for instance. The best VPN provider for streaming is Surfshark, while NordVPN and ExpressVPN follow closely. Are other low-cost VPNs great, too? Yes. PIA and Proton VPN offer full streaming support as well.

With fast speeds and stability, streaming even in 4K will be a breeze. Torrenting is another aspect we appreciate in the best cheap VPNs. All offer P2P support. We love NordVPN’s dedicated P2P servers, as they’re the fastest. However, you’ll find them in CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Proton VPN.

🤑 Price & Discounts

Price is important if you’re looking for a budget VPN. However, it’s not only about the price, as this is often an inconsistent factor. Some VPNs are cheap during Black Friday (see our page featuring the best VPN deals for Black Friday). The rest of the year, they ditch their inexpensive VPN deals.

Our team is experienced enough to recognize these patterns. We picked the cheapest VPNs whose prices, while also changing, remain affordable throughout the year. NordVPN may not always cost $2.99 per month, but it never goes above $3.40 per month. The point is, even if the price fluctuates, it remains low.

These providers have excellent deals and discounts every month, so you can always get the VPN without spending a fortune. CyberGhost, for instance, never costs above $2.20, while Surfshark always hovers around $2.00 per month.

⚙️ Ease of Use & Compatibility

No matter which affordable VPN you pick from our list, the setup won’t last longer than a few minutes. Their state-of-the-art apps also allow for one-click connections. NordVPN connects in seconds with a simple click. The same goes for ExpressVPN and other paramount providers in the world of the cheapest VPNs.

Compatibility-wise, our providers offer apps for all your devices and systems, such as Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, Fire TV Stick, and AppleTV (tvOS). With helpful guides, you can set up and install a VPN on any router or gaming console.

Despite being inexpensive, all services offer impressive simultaneous connections. NordVPN and Proton VPN have ten, ExpressVPN has up to 14, CyberGhost has seven, and Surfshark and PIA offer unlimited.

Cheap VPN vs Expensive VPN: Are Expensive Ones Better?

There’s always a debate about cheap versus expensive things, be it a VPN, a car, food, and so on. People always associate a higher price with a higher level of quality. This usually makes sense, but in the VPN world, it’s not always the case. Let’s take Astrill VPN, whose cheapest plan is $12.50 per month; a two-year deal.

For two years, you spent exactly $300, more than on NordVPN and ExpressVPN combined. Is Astrill VPN better than these two? You have our NordVPN vs Astrill VPN duel, where we answer that question. In short, it’s not. At around $3.39 per month, NordVPN has way more features, faster speeds, and better-looking apps.

We can go, but you get the point. The cheapest VPNs can be better than expensive ones, sometimes a lot, sometimes a bit. In some cases of suspiciously cheap VPNs, you can also expect terrible performance. Examples are countless, but Ivacy VPN is a good one, as it often costs as little as $1.69 per month.

We tested it and realized it performs poorly and lacks the advanced security features of our cheapest VPNs in 2026. The cheapest you can go, and still get a fantastic VPN, is $1.99 per month for Surfshark, or slightly more for Private Internet Access or CyberGhost. Everything below that is too good to be true.

Why Not Use a Free VPN Instead?

The top six VPNs we presented offer great value. But then, you may look for something more extreme, such as a 100% free VPN. Why not go this route instead? Believe it or not, there’s a difference between the cheapest and free VPNs. Even Surfshark, with a $1.99 per month price, is way better than Proton VPN’s free version.

Free providers do terribly in terms of performance, often limiting your speed, data, and bandwidth. Worse yet, they’re limited security-wise. Hola VPN, Betternet, and others sell your private data and collect tons of logs. Not to mention their inability to unblock streaming services, which many will find disappointing.

Free VPNs also limit torrenting or block it completely. Another issue is compatibility. Unlike our cheapest VPNs for 2026, they limit you to a single simultaneous connection. In addition, most providers don’t offer support for non-VPN-friendly platforms like routers, older generations of streaming devices, or gaming consoles.

We don’t need to explain further; everything’s clear. Besides, we see no point in using such a limiting and non-capable VPN only to save $2 a month. We don’t want to offend anyone, but if you’re reading this article, you have a computer or a smartphone, so you’re not that poor. Free VPNs won’t save you anything, in the end.

Think about the data collection that some resort to for a second. You’ll end up paying for the VPN with your privacy. That’s why we recommend an inexpensive VPN like NordVPN or PIA, or other options on this comprehensive list.

Best Cheap VPN: Our Final Recommendations

In conclusion, we want to digress on our ranking of the best cheap VPN services:

• NordVPN is #1, offering a 2-year deal with a heap of amazing features, rock-solid privacy, fast speeds, and streaming and torrenting support. The most competitive VPN in 2026 bar none.
• ExpressVPN is #2, with a fresh biennial Basic plan with four free months at an all-time-low price. It’s fast, easy to use, secure, and anonymous, offering one of the best experiences for the price.
• PIA is #3, with the an inexpensive 2-year plan at $2.03 per month. With unlimited connections, 30,000+ servers, and advanced security options, it’s a mighty provider worth using.
• Surfshark is #4. It’s jam-packed with features like MultiHop, an ad-blocker, streaming-friendly servers, and obfuscation. Being reasonably priced while packing a punch makes Surfshark one of the best-value services.
• Proton VPN is #5 and stands out from the crowd with stringent no-log practices, Secure Core servers, and NetShield for blocking ads. It has a huge server park and offers a free plan with unlimited data.
• CyberGhost is #6 with state-of-the-art encryption, NoSpy servers, and WireGuard connections. While lacking obfuscation, it’s still secure, keeps no logs, and provides a capable ad blocker. Don’t forget about its 45-day money-back guarantee for long-term plans.

Now, all you have to do is pick one and save hundreds of dollars.

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