Table of Contents
Introduction
When it comes to choosing a VPN service, affordability is often a top priority. However, finding a cheap VPN that also offers reliable performance and strong security features can be a challenge. In this article, we will review some of the best affordable VPNs on the market, highlighting their key features, pricing plans, and overall value for money.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Affordable VPN
Before diving into the reviews, it’s important to understand the key factors to consider when choosing an affordable VPN. Here are some of the most important aspects to look for:
1. Pricing
Of course, the pricing of the VPN service is a crucial factor. Look for VPN providers that offer competitive pricing plans, with options for monthly, yearly, or longer-term subscriptions. Keep in mind that while some VPNs may offer lower prices, they may also come with limitations or fewer features.
2. Performance and Speed
A VPN should not slow down your internet connection significantly. Look for VPNs that offer fast and reliable performance, with minimal impact on your browsing and download speeds. Some VPNs have a large network of servers, which can help distribute the load and maintain faster speeds.
3. Security and Privacy
One of the main reasons to use a VPN is to protect your online privacy and secure your data. Look for VPNs that offer strong encryption protocols, such as OpenVPN or IKEv2, to ensure that your data is encrypted and secure. Additionally, a VPN should have a strict no-logging policy, meaning that they do not keep any records of your online activities.
4. Additional Features
Good VPNs may offer additional protective measures too. Some may include a kill switch, which halts all internet activity when your VPN disconnects, ensuring your data isn’t accidentally exposed. Others may allow you to double up on security by connecting to two servers in sequence. Advanced stealth protocols can also hide the fact that you’re using a VPN, adding an extra layer of privacy.
5. Ease of Use
Consider how user-friendly the VPN client or app is. Some VPNs are designed to be simple and easy to set up, while others may require more technical knowledge. Look for VPNs that offer intuitive interfaces and clear instructions for setup and configuration.
6. Personal Data Protection
Ensure that the VPN service you choose has a strict no-logging policy. Some VPNs may collect and share data about your online activities, even if your personal identity is hidden. Look for VPNs that prioritize privacy and do not retain any information on how you use their service.
7. Trial Period or Money-Back Guarantee
Many VPN service providers offer a trial period or a money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service before committing. Look for VPNs that provide a no-questions-asked refund policy, typically for 30 to 45 days, to ensure that the service meets your expectations.
The Best Affordable VPNs
Now that we understand the key factors to consider, let’s dive into the reviews of the best affordable VPNs on the market. These VPNs offer competitive pricing plans, strong security features, and reliable performance.
1. Atlas VPN: The Best Cheap VPN
Price when reviewed: £40.34 for 2 years + 3 months free (£1.49/mth)
Atlas VPN offers one of the cheapest plans on the market, with a 27-month subscription priced at just over £40, averaging less than £1.50 per month. This makes it an incredibly affordable option for budget-conscious users.
Despite its low price, Atlas VPN does have some drawbacks. The app itself is clunky and has a confusing user interface. It also experiences frequent crashes and may have speed issues. Additionally, Atlas VPN occasionally struggles to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming platforms like Netflix.
However, if you can overlook these limitations, Atlas VPN provides good value for money with its low-cost pricing. It offers strong security features, including encryption protocols and a no-logging policy. It also has a decent number of servers in various locations, allowing you to browse the internet securely and access geo-restricted content.
Read our full Atlas VPN review for more details.
2. ExpressVPN: Privacy and Performance
ExpressVPN is known for its excellent performance and strong focus on privacy. While it may not be the cheapest option, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service before committing.
ExpressVPN uses military-grade encryption to protect your data and offers a wide range of server locations around the world. It also has a built-in kill switch and supports advanced stealth protocols, ensuring your online activities remain private and secure.
In terms of speed, ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPNs on the market. It consistently delivers high speeds for streaming, torrenting, and general browsing. It also works well with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, allowing you to access a wider range of content.
3. NordVPN: Security and Privacy
NordVPN is another top contender when it comes to privacy and security. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and has a reputation for being one of the most reliable and trusted VPN providers.
NordVPN uses advanced encryption protocols and has a strict no-logging policy, ensuring that your online activities are kept private. It also offers additional features like a kill switch and double VPN, which adds an extra layer of security by routing your connection through two servers.
In terms of performance, NordVPN offers fast and stable connections. It has a large network of servers spread across the globe, allowing you to access content from different regions. NordVPN also works well with streaming platforms and offers dedicated servers for P2P file sharing.
4. CyberGhost: Privacy and Torrenting
CyberGhost is a reliable VPN provider that excels in both privacy and torrenting. It offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, giving you an extended period to test the service.
CyberGhost uses strong encryption protocols and has a strict no-logging policy, ensuring that your online activities remain private. It also offers a range of specialized servers optimized for torrenting, allowing you to download files securely and anonymously.
In terms of performance, CyberGhost offers fast and stable connections. It has a large network of servers in various locations, providing you with options for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content from different regions. CyberGhost also works well with streaming platforms and offers dedicated servers for optimized streaming performance.
Conclusion
Finding an affordable VPN that offers reliable performance, strong security features, and a user-friendly interface can be a challenge. However, by considering factors such as pricing, performance, security, additional features, ease of use, personal data protection, and trial periods, you can make an informed decision.
Based on our reviews, Atlas VPN, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost are all strong contenders for the best affordable VPNs. Each offers competitive pricing, strong security features, and reliable performance. However, it’s important to consider your specific needs and priorities when choosing the best VPN for you.
Remember to prioritize privacy and security when choosing a VPN, as well as considering additional features like a kill switch and double VPN. Take advantage of trial periods or money-back guarantees to test the service before committing. With the right affordable VPN, you can browse the internet securely and access geo-restricted content without breaking the bank.