VPNs have become essential for securing your online activities, enhancing privacy, and accessing content restricted by location. Whether you’re streaming, working remotely, or simply browsing the web, a VPN can provide anonymity and protection from prying eyes.
While premium VPNs can be expensive, there are numerous affordable options available that offer reliable services without breaking the bank.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best budget VPNs, breaking down their features, benefits, and why they provide excellent value for the money. We’ll also delve into how to choose a budget VPN.
Introduction
VPNs are essential tools for anyone concerned about privacy, online security, or accessing restricted content. Premium VPN services, such as ExpressVPN or NordVPN, come with powerful features and reliable performance, but they may not fit everyone’s budget.
Luckily, the rise in demand for affordable privacy solutions has led to the emergence of several budget VPNs that offer similar protection and performance at a fraction of the cost.
Finding a budget-friendly VPN does not mean sacrificing quality. Many affordable VPNs provide high-grade encryption, large server networks, and decent speeds, making them suitable for tasks like streaming, torrenting, gaming, or browsing. Some even offer advanced features like multi-device support and no-logs policies that rival their more expensive counterparts.
Best Budget VPNs for 2025
Now that we’ve outlined the important factors, let’s dive into the top budget VPNs. Each of these VPNs provides excellent value, strong security, and solid performance, all at affordable prices.
1. Surfshark
Surfshark is an excellent option for anyone looking for a budget VPN without sacrificing quality. It offers robust features, unlimited simultaneous connections, and a competitive price.
Key Features:
- Unlimited Devices: Surfshark allows an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, making it perfect for families or users with many devices.
- Strong Security: The VPN uses AES-256 encryption and offers a strict no-logs policy. It also includes advanced features like CleanWeb, which blocks ads, malware, and trackers.
- Streaming and Torrenting: Surfshark works with Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and other streaming platforms. It also supports torrenting on many servers.
- Affordable Pricing: With long-term plans often costing around $2.49/month, Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPNs with premium features.
Pros:
- Unlimited device connections
- Strong security and privacy features
- Excellent streaming and torrenting performance
- Affordable long-term plans
Cons:
- Slightly slower speeds on some servers
- Interface could be more user-friendly
2. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access (PIA) has built a reputation as one of the most reliable budget VPNs, offering great security features, a wide server network, and affordable pricing.
Key Features:
- Extensive Server Network: PIA boasts over 35,000 servers in 78 countries, ensuring reliable connections and access to global content.
- Strong Encryption: PIA uses AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and advanced privacy features like IP masking and split tunneling.
- Streaming and Torrenting: PIA supports streaming on Netflix and other platforms but may require switching servers to find the best connection.
- Budget-Friendly: With prices as low as $2.19/month on long-term plans, PIA offers excellent value for money.
Pros:
- Huge server network
- Strong security and privacy features
- Low monthly cost for long-term plans
- Open-source apps
Cons:
- Speeds can be inconsistent on certain servers
- Not as many features as some premium competitors
3. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is known for its user-friendly interface, making it ideal for VPN beginners. It’s one of the best budget VPNs in terms of ease of use, while still offering strong security features and great streaming capabilities.
Key Features:
- User-Friendly: CyberGhost’s intuitive interface makes it easy to set up and use, even for VPN novices.
- Large Server Network: With over 9,000 servers in 91 countries, CyberGhost ensures fast and stable connections.
- Optimized for Streaming: The VPN has dedicated servers for streaming services, making it easy to unblock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more.
- Affordable Plans: CyberGhost offers plans starting as low as $2.11/month when you subscribe to a multi-year plan.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Large server network with streaming-optimized servers
- Strong security and privacy features
- Affordable long-term plans
Cons:
- Speeds can be slower on distant servers
- Customer support could be better
4. Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN is a newer player in the VPN market but offers a strong service for an extremely low price. It’s a great choice for users on a tight budget who still want strong security features.
Key Features:
- Free Version Available: Atlas VPN offers a limited free version, though the premium version provides better performance and more features.
- Unlimited Connections: Like Surfshark, Atlas VPN offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Security: The VPN offers AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy.
- Affordability: With long-term plans starting at $1.82/month, Atlas VPN is one of the cheapest options available.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable pricing
- Strong security features
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Free version available
Cons:
- Smaller server network compared to competitors
- Speeds can be inconsistent
5. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is a well-respected VPN known for its focus on privacy and security. While its free plan is popular, its budget-friendly paid plans also offer great value, particularly for users concerned about privacy.
Key Features:
- Strong Privacy Features: ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, which has strong privacy laws. It offers AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and secure core servers to route traffic through multiple locations.
- Free Plan: ProtonVPN offers one of the best free plans, though it comes with limited servers and slower speeds.
- Streaming and Torrenting: The VPN supports streaming and torrenting, though the free plan may not provide access to these features.
- Affordable Pricing: Paid plans start at around $4/month, which is higher than some competitors but includes Proton’s strong privacy features.
Pros:
- Strong focus on privacy and security
- Based in Switzerland, outside of 14 Eyes
- Free plan available
- Streaming and torrenting support
Cons:
- Higher price for premium plans compared to other budget options
- Limited server network on the free plan
How do I choose the best budget VPN for my needs?
To choose the best budget VPN for your specific needs, consider the following:
- Purpose: Determine why you need a VPN (e.g., for streaming, torrenting, security, or bypassing censorship). Choose a VPN that excels in your primary use case.
- Server network: If you need access to global content, choose a VPN with a large server network in multiple countries.
- Speed: Opt for a VPN that provides fast speeds for your desired activities, such as streaming or gaming.
- Device compatibility: Ensure the VPN supports the devices and operating systems you use.
- Privacy features: Look for VPNs that offer robust security features like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy.
- Customer support: Check whether the VPN offers reliable customer support, especially if you anticipate needing help.
Conclusion
While premium VPN services offer advanced features and extensive server networks, budget VPNs can provide reliable protection for those on a tight budget.
By considering factors like price, performance, features, server network, and customer support, you can find an affordable VPN that meets your needs and helps you stay safe online.
FAQs
Are budget VPNs secure?
Yes, budget VPNs can be secure. Look for services that use strong encryption protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard and have a no-logs policy.
Can I use a budget VPN for streaming?
Many budget VPNs can be used for streaming, but it’s important to choose a service with a large server network and fast speeds.
Can I use a budget VPN for torrenting?
Some budget VPNs allow torrenting, but it’s important to check the terms of service and choose a service with a good reputation for privacy and security.
Are there free trials for budget VPNs?
Yes, many budget VPNs offer free trials or money-back guarantees. For example, CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, while Surfshark and PIA offer 30-day money-back guarantees. These allow you to test the service risk-free before committing to a long-term plan.
Do budget VPNs offer split tunneling?
Yes, several budget VPNs, including Surfshark and Private Internet Access, offer split tunneling. This feature allows you to choose which apps or websites use the VPN connection and which ones bypass it, giving you more control over your network traffic.
Will a budget VPN protect me on public Wi-Fi?
Yes, budget VPNs provide the same level of encryption as premium options, meaning they can protect your data when using public Wi-Fi networks. VPNs like Surfshark, Atlas VPN, and CyberGhost use AES-256 encryption to secure your connection, keeping hackers and snoopers at bay when you’re connected to unsecured networks.
Are budget VPNs legal?
Yes, using a VPN is legal in most countries. However, some regions, such as China, Russia, and Iran, have restrictions on VPN usage. It’s important to research the local laws regarding VPNs in your area to ensure compliance.