10 Best Cheap Monthly VPN Plans in 2024 — Pay as You Go

Lucca RF
Last Updated by Lucca RF on January 03, 2024 Fact-checked by Felipe Allende Fact-checked by Felipe Allende

When looking for a short-term subscription, it’s tough to find a month-to-month VPN that’s cheap and actually worth it. You can often find long-term plans for up to 90% cheaper with all the same features, but then you have to commit to that service for a year or more.

I’ve used dozens of VPNs, and you’ll always save the most money opting for a long-term sub. But there are actually some good deals for pay as you go VPN plans out there! All the VPNs shortlisted here offer top security and great performance for tasks like gaming, torrenting, and streaming.

ExpressVPN’s monthly plan is the best value for money. It’s a competitive price, at $12.95/month, but it’s also the fastest VPN I’ve ever used and one of the most user-friendly for any online task. All plans (including the monthly one) come with a money-back guarantee — if you aren’t totally happy with it, then you can get a full refund within 30 days.

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Quick Guide: Best VPNs With Cheap Monthly Plans in 2024

  1. ExpressVPN — Best value monthly VPN that works great for any activity and has the fastest speeds despite offering high-end security.
  2. CyberGhost — Optimized servers are perfect for streaming and torrenting, but the monthly plan only comes with a 14-day money-back guarantee.
  3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — One of the cheaper options with customizable security, but isn’t based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.
  4. NordVPN — Offers great versatility and lots of privacy-focused specialty servers, but the app is a bit clunky, especially on mobile.
  5. Surfshark — Cheapest monthly prices for long-term plans, but its pay-as-you-go pricing is pretty expensive.

See the rest of our best monthly VPNs below!

The Best Cheap Monthly VPN Plans (Pay as You Go) – Tested in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — Best-Value Monthly Plan With Unmatched Versatility and Speeds

Key Features:

  • $12.95/month pay-as-you-go, or as low as $6.67/month with a 1-year + 3 months plan
  • 3,000 unlimited bandwidth servers in 105 countries
  • AES-256 bit encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling
  • Protect up to 8 devices at the same time
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat and extensive knowledge base
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

ExpressVPN isn’t known as one of the cheapest VPNs on the market. Its long-term plans are pricey compared to its competitors, but its month-to-month pricing is actually on the cheaper side comparatively. A month-to-month VPN plan will cost you on average $12.50/month, so its price tag of $12.95 for a one-month subscription is quite competitive.

Opting for a long-term plan can save you 49% ($6.67/month with a 1-year + 3 months plan). You get all the same features, which is nice as sometimes you get limited features with a short-term VPN. I was impressed that you also get access to ExpressVPN Keys, its secure password manager, and this remains active even after your VPN subscription ends.

Considering its monthly price and how well ExpressVPN performs, it definitely earns the top spot in this list. ExpressVPN has the fastest speeds of any VPN our team has ever tested. It developed its own super-secure protocol called Lightway which no other VPN offers. My speeds never strayed far from my base of 350Mbps, even with distant servers.

Screenshot of ExpressVPN speed tests showing servers in the US, UK, Australia, and Germany
ExpressVPN’s fast servers make it perfect for streaming or downloading large files

Every plan also comes with:

  • AES-256 bit encryption — scrambles your traffic to ensure that your online activities remain private and protected.
  • DNS and IP leak protection — stops eavesdroppers from seeing your DNS queries and IP info, boosting your privacy.
  • Automatic kill switch — cuts off your internet connection if your VPN ever drops out, preventing accidental IP exposure.
  • Audited no-logs policy — means that independent third parties have verified ExpressVPN’s claims and that it strictly adheres to its privacy processes.

Image of ExpressVPN Review leak test results UK

ExpressVPN passed multiple rounds of tests for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks

I’m also a big fan of ExpressVPN’s overall user experience. It has a clean interface with a big “connect” button above a recommended server, which is handy when you need to get connected ASAP. Of course, you can also manually select servers by location, too.

It’s one of those things that just works out of the box. ExpressVPN doesn’t have specialty servers or many configurations you can tweak, but you don’t need any of this. It is one of the best VPNs for streaming — it works with 50+ streaming services and you can set it up on a smart TV. Its fast speeds make it ideal for torrenting quickly and securely as well.

The one limitation you’ll face when opting for ExpressVPN’s month-to-month plan is that you only get 5 device connections, whereas all longer plans come with 8. If you want 8 connections, you can opt for the 6-month plan. This is a great option since it’s not a super long commitment, and is cheaper than the 1-month ($9.99/month).

All plans, including the monthly one, are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee, too. If it’s not the right fit, you can always get a full refund. I tested this right before the end of my 1-month subscription. The agent approved my request — no questions asked. The money was back in my account in a week.

ExpressVPN works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.

2024 Update! ExpressVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $6.67 per month for the 1-year plan + 3 months free (you can save up to 49%)! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers For Streaming, Torrenting, and Gaming on Monthly Plans

Key Features:

  • $12.99 for 1 month or $2.03/month with the 2-year + 4 months plan
  • 11,780+ servers in 100 countries, with optimized servers for specific tasks
  • Military-grade encryption, kill switch, and a strict no-log policy keep your data private
  • Offers 7 simultaneous device connections no matter which plan you choose
  • 24/7 customer support through live chat and email
  • 45-day money-back guarantee

Priced similarly to ExpressVPN, CyberGhost offers monthly users access to a network of servers optimized for different activities. For example, the gaming-optimized servers allowed me to play online with impressively low latency, while the streaming servers are optimized for specific streaming platforms and work great with high-quality video.

Speed-wise, CyberGhost performed well: I measured average speeds of 228.41Mbps while connected to various global servers. Although this 34.7% drop is higher than ExpressVPN’s average, I didn’t experience major interruptions or slowdowns. In fact, I could still watch videos in UHD with no noticeable buffering or drop in quality.

Image of CyberGhost VPN Review Speed gaming optimized servers

CyberGhost has optimized servers for gaming, streaming, and torrenting

It also takes device security very seriously and includes the following security features:

  • AES 256-bit military-grade encryption — guarantees your connection is secure.
  • Automatic kill switch — instantly blocks internet access if the VPN connection is interrupted.
  • Data leak protection — blocks DNS and IP leaks.
  • Malicious ad blocker — stops ads containing malware.

You can also benefit from CyberGhost’s Romania-based in-house “NoSpy” servers that have better hardware, speeds, and physical security than regular servers. CyberGhost owns, operates, and maintains these servers itself, so no third parties can interfere with or access them. Especially if you’re in Europe (to lower the latency), they’re a great option.

CyberGhost is a great pick if you need support for a wide range of devices. It has several native apps, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Fire Stick, Android TV, and more. The apps have an intuitive interface, making it easy for you to get connected, no matter your skill level.

At $12.99, its 1-month price is almost the same as ExpressVPN’s. However, unlike ExpressVPN, CyberGhost’s 1-month plan only comes with a 14-day money-back guarantee. CyberGhost’s long-term plans are highly affordable, though; at $2.03/month, you can save up to 84% when you sign up for a 2-year + 4 months plan.

If you’re looking for a good all-round VPN, you can try CyberGhost risk-free with its money-back guarantee. Getting a refund is simple if you decide it’s not the right fit. I contacted live chat to verify this for myself. A customer service representative approved my request within minutes, and I had the money back in 7 days.

CyberGhost works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.

2024 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 84%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Inexpensive Monthly VPN With Customizable Security Options

Key Features:

  • $11.95 for 1 month or as low as $2.03/month on a 2-year + 4 months plan
  • Huge server network of 35,000+ servers in 91 countries prevents overcrowding, ensuring consistently good speeds
  • Built-in ad, malware, and tracker blocker adds an extra layer of online protection
  • Allows unlimited simultaneous device connections
  • Help available via live chat, email, and a comprehensive knowledge base
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

On top of having one of the best monthly prices in this list, PIA offers a host of deep customization options that can be used to change your balance between security and speed. While these settings are aimed at more advanced VPN users, PIA’s default settings work well in almost every situation. Plus, even if you change settings, you can’t go wrong.

Image of PIA VPN review connection protocols

PIA has plenty of options to customize it to your liking

PIA also boasts the largest network among the VPNs on this list, with 35,000+ servers in 91 countries. It also uses virtual servers to avoid overcrowding, which improves speeds. While I had an average speed drop of 62% from my baseline, it was mainly due to distant servers. Closer servers performed better — well enough for UHD streaming.

On top of its customizable features, PIA provides every plan with plenty more security options, including:

  • Powerful 256-bit encryption — scrambles all online traffic.
  • MACE ad blocker — removes annoying or malicious ads while you browse.
  • DNS leak protection — prevents identifying data from being made visible.
  • WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPSec (on iOS) protocols — for a balance of speed and security.

PIA offers user-friendly apps for a variety of devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. If you’re a Linux user, you’ll be happy to know that PIA provides a full graphical user interface for Linux, making it much easier to use compared to the command-line interface (CLI) approach common with other VPNs.

If you’re worried about the role of the 5/9/14 Eyes intelligence alliances when it comes to privacy, PIA’s location in the US may concern you. However, PIA has undergone an independent audit, and its no-logs policy has even been tested in court several times when authorities tried (without success) to get access to user data.

A 1-month PIA plan will set you back $11.95 per month, although you can get PIA for as low as $2.03 with its 2-year + 4 months plan. While its monthly price is fairly average, this is one of the cheapest long-term plans around.

You can try PIA risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee. I verified this by contacting PIA via live chat. While the agent needed my invoice number to confirm my identity, they proactively emailed it to the registered address to streamline the process. The request was then confirmed within minutes and I had the money back in 4 days.

PIA works on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, game consoles, Linux, Smart TVs, Chrome, Firefox, routers, and more.

2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 83%)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!

4. NordVPN — Advanced Privacy With Double VPN and Onion Over VPN With Monthly Options

Key Features:

  • $12.99 for 1 month or as low as $3.09/month on a 2-year + 3 months plan
  • 6,320+ servers in 110 countries for seamless connectivity
  • AES-256 bit encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling
  • Allows up to 10 simultaneous device connections
  • 24/7 customer support through live chat and email
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

NordVPN offers some unique security and privacy features, and it’s reasonably priced. With Double VPN and Onion Over VPN options, your internet traffic is encrypted twice or passed through the Onion network for an extra layer of protection. This makes NordVPN an ideal choice for users who prioritize privacy and security above all else.

Image of NordVPN review specialty servers

NordVPN’s interface makes it easy for you to access its various specialty servers

Monthly users access the same fast network as long-term customers. While running speed tests on NordVPN’s global network of 6,320+ servers, my speeds only dropped 19.4% from my baseline. The subsequent high speeds ensured that I could stream in UHD, download large files, and browse the internet without any noticeable lag.

It also offers robust security features, including:

  • AES 256-bit military-grade encryption — turns your traffic into unreadable noise to eavesdroppers.
  • Automatic kill switch — disconnects your internet if the VPN connection is lost.
  • DNS and IP leak protection — prevents accidental data exposure.
  • Threat Protection — blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites, even when the VPN isn’t connected.
  • Strict no-log policy and RAM-based servers — guarantee your data will never be stored.

I was very happy to see NordVPN’s wide range of native apps, with support for all the most popular platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The user interface is straightforward and intuitive, but I found it a bit cumbersome to use on mobile. Having to scroll the map view to select a server was a bit annoying on my Android.

I was also a little let down by the lack of obfuscated servers (which hides the fact that you’re connecting from a VPN) around the world, especially when you compare it to VPNs like ExpressVPN, which offers obfuscation on every server. However, NordVPN still has at least 2 obfuscated servers in each major region, so you do have a few options.

At $12.99, NordVPN is pretty average among 1-month VPN options on this list, but it brings good value. You can also save up to 69% by opting for the 2-year + 3 months plan for $3.09 per month. If you’re happy with a longer plan, it’s a highly affordable price for a VPN that has plenty to offer.

You can test NordVPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you decide it’s not the right fit, simply request a refund via live chat or email. I tested the refund process via the live chat and received my money back within a week.

NordVPN works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Google Chromecast, Android TVs, routers, and more.

5. Surfshark — Pay-As-You Go VPN to Bypass VPN Blocks on All Your Devices Simultaneously

Key Features:

  • $13.99 for 1 month or as low as $2.29/month on a 2-year + 2 months plan
  • 3,200+ servers in 100 countries for uninterrupted connectivity
  • AES-256 encryption, kill switch, and CleanWeb feature protect you online
  • Allows unlimited simultaneous device connections
  • 24/7 customer support through live chat and email
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

NoBorders mode is Surfshark’s take on obfuscation, which you can enjoy even on monthly plans. It allows you to circumvent VPN blocks on all servers on its network — something few VPNs do. With unlimited simultaneous device connections, you can safely access the internet on every device you own, even on trips to countries that may place restrictions on VPN-use.

Overview of Surfshark's VPN settings including its obfuscation option.

Surfshark’s NoBorders is a welcome feature in a market where obfuscation isn’t always available

With 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, Surfshark provides fast and stable connections. In all of my tests, I was impressed by Surfshark’s speed across several global servers, which dropped just 20% on average from my baseline. I could easily browse the web, download large files, and even stream UHD content with minimal buffering.

Security-wise, Surfshark also offers:

  • AES 256-bit military-grade encryption — keeps your activity obscured from third parties.
  • Automatic kill switch — disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops.
  • DNS and IP leak protection — secure your browsing activity and personal data.
  • Dynamic MultiHop feature — routes your traffic through multiple servers of your choice for increased privacy.
  • Rotating IP — regularly changes your IP address in the background for added anonymity.

The interface is extremely easy to use, allowing you to easily connect to the optimal server for your requirements. Unfortunately, the server statistics showing load and latency don’t appear unless requested, and it can take a few seconds for them to load. It would be nice to have this information either permanently visible or at least appear more quickly.

At $13.99, Surfshark’s 1-month plan is the most expensive on this list. However, you can save up to 85% by opting for the 2-year + 2 months plan at just $2.29 per month. Interestingly, this makes Surfshark one of the most affordable long-term options among the top VPNs.

With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try Surfshark risk-free. If you decide it’s not the right fit, request a refund via live chat or email. I successfully tested the refund process and received my money back within a week.

Surfshark works on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chromebook, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Android TVs, routers, and more.

6. PrivateVPN — Cheapest Monthly VPN With Stealth for Ultimate Anonymity

Key Features:

  • $9.90 for 1 month or as low as $2.00/month on a 3-year plan
  • 200 unlimited bandwidth servers in 63 countries
  • AES-256 bit encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling
  • Allows up to 10 simultaneous device connections
  • 24/7 customer support through live chat and email
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

PrivateVPN’s Stealth VPN feature hides the fact that you’re using a VPN to allow you to bypass VPN blocks and access blocked content in countries with strict online restrictions. It’s essentially PrivateVPN’s version of obfuscation, akin to Surfshark’s NoBorders mode, and is also great for avoiding ISP throttling and workplace content blocks.

While PrivateVPN may not have all the bells and whistles of its counterparts, it is actually impressively versatile. Especially considering it’s the cheapest month-to-month VPN in this list at just $9.90/month. It works consistently with several dozen international streaming platforms and its entire network supports torrenting.

In speed tests, PrivateVPN averaged 76.1Mbps across multiple global servers. This was a drop of approximately 78% from my baseline — the most significant drop among the VPNs listed. However, it was still fast enough for UHD video content with local connections and for browsing without any issues.

Screenshot of ExpressVPN speed tests showing servers in the US, UK, Australia, and Germany
PrivateVPN dropped the most out of all VPNs I tested

You have access to PrivateVPN’s solid set of security and privacy features to protect your online activities, including:

  • AES 256-bit military-grade encryption — protects your data from being decrypted or tampered with by hackers, ISPs, or governments.
  • Automatic kill switch — cuts off your internet if the VPN connection drops, so that your real IP address and location are not exposed.
  • DNS and IP leak protection — ensures that your DNS requests and IP address are always hidden and routed through the VPN server.

Its long-term prices are also affordable. You can subscribe for as little as $2.00 with the 3-year plan. In essence, although it might not be the most powerful, it’s an incredibly cost-effective VPN.

You can try PrivateVPN’s Stealth VPN by taking advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you decide it’s not the right fit, simply request a refund via live chat or email. The refund process is straightforward — I had to email a request to customer support, but quickly received confirmation and had my money back within 5 days.

PrivateVPN works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iPhone, Amazon Fire Stick, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, routers, and more.

7. IPVanish — SOCKS5 Proxy Support for Improved Torrenting

Key Features:

  • $12.99 per month or as low as $2.75/month on a 2-year plan
  • Robust, high-speed network of 2,400+ servers in 57 countries
  • AES-256-bit encryption, kill switch, and leak protection ensure your data stays safe
  • Enjoy high-speed connections on unlimited devices
  • Phone, 24/7 live chat, and email support options
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

IPVanish’s SOCKS5 proxy support offers an additional method to anonymize your data. The SOCKS5 proxy masks your IP address without encrypting your traffic, anonymizing your traffic without slowing it down as much as an encrypted connection. This is particularly useful for safe torrenting at faster speeds or accessing geo-restricted content when encryption isn’t really necessary.

IPVanish’s simplified yet detailed interface gives you all the information you need to choose the best servers. The server details include load and ping, which can be very useful. Between the list and map view of all the servers, it’s easy to see which server is the best choice for you.

A screenshot of IPVanish's server list and map view.

IPVanish’s intuitive interface makes it easy to choose the right servers

I ran tests on various servers and measured an average speed drop of just 15.7% from my baseline speed — almost as good as ExpressVPN’s performance. These speeds make IPVanish a good option for basic browsing, downloading, streaming, and more.

It also keeps your devices secure, thanks to several powerful features, including:

  • AES-256 encryption — secures your data with the strongest level of encryption available.
  • Built-in kill switch — disconnects your internet connection if the VPN disconnects, so that your real IP address and location are not revealed.
  • Leak protection — prevents your DNS requests and IP address from being exposed and ensures that they are always sent through the VPN server.

It’s worth noting that IPVanish is headquartered in the US, a 14 Eyes Alliance country. Thankfully, IPVanish has undergone independent audits by Leviathan Security Group, which confirmed that IPVanish’s privacy policy is being adhered to.

You can connect unlimited simultaneous devices with IPVanish, making it extremely cost-effective considering its low monthly subscription cost. Although its 1-month plan isn’t cheap at $12.99/month, you can get it for the low price of $2.75/month with a 2-year plan.

If you want to try IPVanish out before committing, then you need to sign up for a year or longer. The monthly plan doesn’t come with a money-back guarantee, while the longer-term options give you 30 days to request a refund if you’re not satisfied. You might be better off opting for a long-term plan to test out IPVanish, otherwise you can’t get a refund.

IPVanish works on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Chrome, routers, and more.

8. PureVPN — 20Gbps Servers for Extreme Bandwidth Capacity

Key Features:

  • $12.45 for 1 month or as low as $1.96/month on a 2-year + 4 months plan
  • Choose from 6,000+ high-speed servers in 65 countries
  • AES-256 encryption, internet kill switch, and leak protection ensure your connection stays secure
  • Connect up to 10 devices simultaneously under one plan
  • Live chat support, ticket support, setup guides, and FAQs available
  • 31-day money-back guarantee

PureVPN provides 20Gbps servers for higher bandwidth capacity — something uncommon even amongst premium VPNs. My tests showed high speeds, only 20% lower than my baseline. This is great for fast activities, but I sometimes struggled to find a server that was low-latency enough for online gaming.

Screenshot of PureVPN speed tests showing servers in the US, UK, Australia, and Germany
PureVPN’s high-bandwidth servers provide reliable speeds for any activity

PureVPN also offers robust security features, including:

  • Military-grade encryption — protects your data against snooping by hackers, ISPs, or governments.
  • Network kill switch — disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops.
  • Leak protection — ensures your IP address and other sensitive data remain concealed.
  • “Always-on” audits — can happen at any time, helping keep PureVPN accountable.

However, I have one issue with PureVPN’s privacy history: in 2016, the company shared logs with authorities during a cyberstalking investigation. However, PureVPN now undergoes voluntary third-party audits by KPMG that verify its no-logs claims.

PureVPN’s $12.45 monthly rate is average. Thankfully, the cheapest plan is priced at $1.96 a month for the 2-year + 4 months plan, making it a great value if you’re willing to commit for longer.

You can try PureVPN in confidence with its 31-day money-back guarantee. I requested a refund via live chat on the 25th day of my subscription, and it took only a few minutes to be approved. The customer representative told me they would send my request to the billing team, and I got my money back after 3 days.

PureVPN works on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Android TV, Kodi, Firestick, Routers, Linux, and more.

9. Proton VPN — Swiss-based VPN Renowned for its Privacy-Focused Features

Key Features:

  • $9.99 for 1 month or as low as $4.99/month on a 2-year + 6 months plan
  • 4,450 servers in 71 countries
  • Military-grade encryption, DNS leak protection, and Secure Core Network keep your devices secure
  • Protects up to 10 devices simultaneously (Plus plan)
  • Help available via an online support form and a comprehensive support center
  • Free plan available; 30-day pro-rata money-back guarantee for paid plans

Proton VPN’s Secure Core and Tor servers provide you with enhanced privacy and data security. These route traffic through multiple servers, making it more difficult for attackers to discover your true IP addresses and location. They’re located in countries with strong privacy laws and housed in high-security data centers for further protection.

In my testing, Proton VPN’s Plus Plan hit impressive speeds, with an average drop of 29.8%. On the other hand, Proton VPN’s free plan slowed significantly, averaging a 90% drop from my baseline. Nevertheless, if you’re looking to engage in high-bandwidth activities like torrenting or streaming, Proton VPN’s Plus Plan remains an excellent choice.

Besides its Secure Core and Tor servers, Proton VPN also offers additional security features to protect your digital life, including:

  • Military-grade encryption — protects your data from eavesdropping and interception.
  • DNS leak prevention — ensures your browsing activities remain hidden.
  • NetShield — built-in ad, tracker, and malware blocker for a cleaner browsing experience.

Proton VPN’s 1-month cost is $9.99, which goes as low as $4.99/month if purchased with a 2-year + 6 months subscription. This makes Proton VPN one of the cheapest VPNs on a 1-month basis, but third-most expensive with its longer plan. If you’re after its specific features or are already embedded within its ecosystem (like ProtonMail or Drive), it’s well worth a look.

I was disappointed to find that Proton VPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee only reimburses you for the days you haven’t used. This means you can still try Proton VPN relatively risk-free, but if you change your mind you won’t be getting a full refund.

Proton VPN works on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Chromebook, Linux, smart TVs, and routers.

10. StrongVPN — Wide Device Compatibility and Easy-to-Use Apps for All Platforms

Key Features:

  • $11.99 for 1 month or as low as $3.97/month on a 1-year plan
  • 950+ unlimited bandwidth servers in 30 countries
  • AES-256 bit encryption, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling
  • Allows up to 12 simultaneous device connections
  • 24/7 customer support through live chat and email
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

StrongVPN has wide device compatibility and user-friendly apps, making it ideal for users with multiple devices or those new to VPNs. Its apps are designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy to quickly get connected to the best server. You can install it natively on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, plus other platforms like Amazon Fire TV, Kodi, and more.

The network of 950+ servers in 30 countries isn’t huge, but StrongVPN still manages to deliver decent performance. In my tests, I experienced a 45% speed drop versus my baseline. Although not ideal, I was still left with more than adequate speeds for streaming, downloading files, and browsing the internet without significant interruptions.

StrongVPN also provides robust security features, including:

  • AES 256-bit military-grade encryption — keeps your data safe from prying eyes.
  • Automatic kill switch — disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection is lost.
  • Leak protection — prevents accidental exposure of your DNS requests and IP address.

While StrongVPN states that it takes user privacy seriously, it’s difficult to believe these claims without evidence. Especially in an industry where more and more providers are independently audited, not doing the same puts a VPN at an immediate disadvantage. If you need a firm guarantee of privacy with your VPN, I’d recommend one of the audited options.

StrongVPN’s 1-month plan is $11.99, putting it roughly in the middle ground of this list. However, you can save up to 66% by opting for the 1-year plan, which costs just $3.97 per month.

You can try StrongVPN with zero risk with its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you decide it’s not the right fit, request a refund via live chat, email, or phone. I tested the refund process and received my money back within a week.

StrongVPN works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, Kodi, routers, and more.

Comparison Table: The Best Cheap Monthly VPNs in 2024

1-month Price Cheapest Monthly Rate Money-back guarantee Average Speed Drop Simultaneous device connections Standout feature
ExpressVPN $12.95 $6.67 30 days 14.6% 8 Best overall
CyberGhost $12.99 $2.03 45 days (14 days for 1 month) 34.7% 7 Streaming
PIA $11.95 $2.03 30 days 62% unlimited Customizable security
NordVPN $12.99 $3.09 30 days 18.7% 10 Specialty servers for advanced privacy
Surfshark $13.99 $2.29 30 days 21.2% unlimited Bypassing VPN blocks
PrivateVPN $9.90 $2.00 30 days 78% 10 Cheapest month-to-month
IPVanish $12.99 $2.75 30 days (long-term only) 15.7% unlimited Proxy usage
PureVPN $12.45 $1.96 31 days 20% 10 Large downloads
Proton VPN $9.99 $4.99 30 days 29.8% 10 Security and Tor usage
StrongVPN $11.99 $3.97 30 days 45% 12 Easy-to-use apps

Testing Criteria: How I Ranked the Cheapest Monthly VPN Plans

To ensure the highest quality and affordability, I checked each VPN against the following criteria:

  • Affordable monthly rates with a money-back guarantee — I considered both the standard 1-month prices and discounted longer-term rates to find the best value for money. I also ensured that every VPN offers a money-back guarantee.
  • High speeds for a variety of online activities — Each VPN should be capable of streaming UHD-quality video, downloading files, and performing day-to-day activities without interruptions. The VPNs on this list can do it all.
  • Wide range of servers in different countries — I assessed the size and quality of each VPN’s server network and prioritized those with a good range of local servers in each country.
  • Transparent privacy policies — Only VPNs with clear no-logs policies were included, with preference given to those whose policies have undergone third-party audits.
  • Device compatibility and multiple simultaneous connections — These VPNs work with major operating systems and offer multiple simultaneous connections to protect all your devices.
  • Ease of use and intuitive interface — VPNs with user-friendly, intuitive interfaces were prioritized, ensuring ease of use in their apps and software.
  • Dependable customer service — I ensured the VPNs provide quick and easy access to essential customer support.

Monthly VPN Plans vs Long-Term VPN Plans: Which is Better?

When deciding between monthly and long-term VPN plans, it’s crucial to consider both cost and practicality.

Monthly pay-as-you-go plans are typically more expensive. This pricing strategy is deliberate, encouraging you to commit for longer. Monthly plans, while offering flexibility, present a risk for VPN providers due to potential customer turnover, affecting their revenue stability and user base predictability.

On the flip side, long-term subscriptions offer a win-win scenario. They not only foster user loyalty and ensure a stable revenue stream for the provider but also come at a significantly lower per-month cost. This makes them an attractive option for users who want continued online privacy without the hassle of monthly renewals.

However, there are scenarios where a one-month VPN plan might be more suitable. For instance:

  • You’re planning to travel — and want to ensure you stay protected while on public WiFi networks like in cafes and hotels or need access to site not available in your destination.
  • You want to test out a service — since 1 month is long enough to get a good feeling for it. However, keep in mind that the vast majority of VPNs listed above have money-back guarantees, so you can try them out with essentially no commitment.
  • You’re waiting for a better deal — in case your current subscription ran out, but you need something to keep you protected until Black Friday or a different deal period comes along.

In the end, the answer to which is better will definitely depend on your particular situation, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Monthly VPNs don’t require any commitment on your end, but are more expensive in the long run.

VPNs That Didn’t Make the Cut

Hola VPN

Hola VPN is a free VPN service that’s best avoided. In the past, it was caught using connected user devices in what was essentially a botnet. It allowed malicious actors to execute code across users’ devices, monitor their online activity, and even take over their entire computers.

HoxxVPN

While HoxxVPN claims to keep your data safe online, its website is devoid of specifics on how this is accomplished. There are no details of which encryption type and other technologies are used, and the privacy policy is far from watertight. If that wasn’t enough, it also has a limited server network and poor speeds.

FAQs: Best Cheap Monthly VPN Plans

What is the average monthly price for VPNs?

You can expect to pay around $12.50 for a 1-month plan, and significantly less if you subscribe to a long-term plan, sometimes as little as $2/month. Make sure you choose a VPN with a legitimate no-questions-asked money-back guarantee to try it out before committing long-term.

Keep in mind that some VPNs’ monthly plans don’t have money-back guarantees available or offer shorter refund periods. Always check this information if you’re not sure the service will suit your needs on a one-month basis.

Is it worth paying for a VPN subscription?

Yes. The highest-quality VPNs in 2024 have many benefits for your online life. It’s getting more difficult to protect your privacy online, especially when many third-party entities stand to gain so much from tracking your every move. A VPN ensures that all your web searches, your location, and the sites you visit are your business and yours alone.

As a frequent traveler, I use a premium VPN to protect my data from cybercriminals while connected to unsecured networks in cafes, airports, and hotels. A premium VPN also allows me to reliably access services from back home (like local banking), regardless of where I am. A top-tier VPN will deliver all these benefits without affecting your speeds too much.

Which is the cheapest VPN with a monthly subscription?

PrivateVPN is one of the cheapest premium VPNs available. As of 2024, you can get PrivateVPN for $9.90 for a 1-month subscription or as low as $2.00 with a 3-year plan. Although it’s not the #1 VPN available, it’s incredibly cost-effective and impressively reliable and versatile.

Is it legal to use a VPN?

Yes — in most countries, it’s legal to use a VPN. In fact, VPNs are a great way to protect your data while traveling the world. However, some countries, like China and Russia, have laws that heavily restrict or outright ban VPN usage, so the Wizcase team highly encourages you to check the rules depending on where you plan to use one.

Note that performing activities online that are illegal with a VPN is still illegal. Using a VPN for downloading or distributing copyrighted content is illegal. It’s up to you to use your VPN responsibly.

Can I use a monthly VPN for torrenting?

Yes, you can! Some of the best VPNs with monthly plans, like CyberGhost, even have dedicated torrenting servers that are optimized for P2P traffic and higher speeds all while protecting you from random users on the shared P2P network. That said, regular servers will still encrypt your internet traffic so you can torrent safely.

Remember that using a VPN does not give you the license to commit illegal acts. Never download anything that’s protected under copyright as this is illegal and could land you in serious trouble, with or without a VPN.

Which is the best monthly VPN to watch Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, Disney+, and more?

The best VPN for watching Netflix and other popular streaming services is ExpressVPN. My global team and I tested various servers in our respective countries around the world and found that ExpressVPN works well with Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, Disney+, Hulu, and even sports networks such as DAZN and ESPN+.

In my experience, I’ve found that in the rare times when it doesn’t work right away, disconnecting and reconnecting to another server quickly fixes things. Its 24/7 customer support staff are also happy to suggest working servers so you can get connected quickly.

What are lifetime subscriptions, and should I purchase one of those instead?

Lifetime VPNs offer unlimited VPN access for a one-time fee. While unlimited VPN access sounds like a great deal, I still recommend purchasing termed plans from reputable VPN providers. There are 2 main reasons: most VPNs offering lifetime subscription deals are relatively unknown, and the lifetime subscription profit model isn’t always viable.

Running a VPN incurs a lot of costs. It doesn’t make sense for a service to simply ask for a (relatively) small, one-time fee for unlimited service forever. If you purchase a lifetime plan from these unknown VPNs, the best-case scenario is that you’ll get a slow VPN; the worst case is that the service shuts down or even sells your data to keep itself running.

Are there any good free VPNs?

Yes, there are some good free VPNs available, but they often come with limitations and potential risks. When you choose a premium, reputable VPN, you’re investing in a reliable service that’s focused on customer satisfaction and maintaining its reputation.

In contrast, free VPNs often have restrictions such as data or speed limits, limited server options, or reduced device compatibility. While some free VPNs may provide decent service, they’re often purposefully limited to encourage users to upgrade to their paid plans — essentially the “freemium” business model.

Free VPNs also pose a threat to your online security. There have been reports of free VPNs injecting malware into devices or collecting and selling user data to third parties. They also often simply fail to keep up with advances as quickly as a paid premium VPN will. When it comes to your online security and privacy, it’s not worth taking chances with a free service.

Enjoy Premium Protection With a Cheap Monthly VPN Plan

Getting a VPN with a monthly plan is a great way to test the service before committing to a longer-term subscription. It’s also an excellent option if you’re on a budget, as it costs much less upfront to subscribe to a monthly plan (even if it adds up over time).

While it’s tempting to opt for a cheaper monthly plan, you may find that lower-priced VPNs don’t provide the comprehensive coverage you want. Instead, I recommend choosing a high-quality VPN with a slightly higher price point, like ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN offers top-tier security and privacy, fast speeds for your online activities, and a huge network of servers for reliable access from anywhere. Plus, you can try ExpressVPN on up to 8 devices risk-free — if you don’t feel it’s right for you, you can get a full refund within the 30-day money-back guarantee period.


Summary — Best Cheap Monthly VPN Plans in 2024 — Pay as You Go

Top Ranked Top Choice
ExpressVPN
$6.67 / month Save 49%
CyberGhost VPN
$2.03 / month Save 84%
Private Internet Access
$2.03 / month Save 83%
NordVPN
$3.09 / month Save 76%
Surfshark
$2.29 / month Save 85%
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