Best Cheap VPN Reddit 2023

TLDR: Surfshark is the Best Cheap VPN Reddit in 2023

u/Willingplane: I use Surfshark and no problem with Netflix and a number of other services, but haven’t been able to get it to work with Amazon Prime video service.

Get 83% Discount on Surfshark VPN

We’ve been at it for a while – keeping a close eye on the dynamic world of VPNs. Virtual Private Networks, as you might already know, come in different price ranges that are sure to lead to some confusion. If the core idea is just to gain online privacy while watching a 10-minute documentary or while using a public computer/network, honestly, it feels like some of the higher-end VPN vendors are not entirely justified in their costs.

But I’m jumping ahead. The first question is, what is a VPN? Simply put, VPN is a software that snaps its digital fingers and dissipates your online identity into thin air. A VPN encrypts your traffic, routes your connection through an intermediary server and gives you a new IP address each time, which essentially makes you more elusive than the protagonist of Catch Me If You Can.

It’s an extra layer of security that not only protects your personal and financial data from hackers, but also from corporate behemoths such as Netflix. You could be sitting in Mongolia, pining for some good old Breaking Bad, stuck with geo-restricted access that doesn’t allow you to watch your favorite show in a country that lacks the requisite copyright. What do you do? You VPN.

There are VPNs out there that mount up to hefty costs over shorter time periods while they unblock torrenting for you and mask your footsteps across the web. There are also VPNs that come absolutely free but with speeds so slow you might as well switch to sending postcards from the nearest post office. What we are looking at in this article is the VPNs in between – which don’t cost a ransom and still promise strong encryption. The cheap VPNs with rich features.

How do I choose the Best Cheap VPN?

The answer to this question is the same as for how to choose the best VPN. Cheap or not, what we all want from a VPN is solid security – good encryption and a reliable no-logs policy for extreme privacy; performance – or rather speed, which is only possible if the VPN boasts an extensive network of servers, preferably in multiple geographical locations, not to forget plenty of IP addresses; and then there are the bonuses – a friendly user interface, compatibility across devices and operating systems, and a cost that doesn’t make the whole job seem expensive like rocket science.

Best Cheap VPN Reddit 2023

Keeping all of the above parameters in mind – security, speed, convenience and cost – we’ve put together a list of 6 best cheap VPNs that are sure to put your mind at ease for a fraction of the cost that a typically expensive VPN would. Read on for in-depth reviews of each of these affordable VPN providers.

1. Surfshark – Best Cheap VPN Reddit 2023

Get 83% Discount on Surfshark VPN

In the two odd years that it has been around, Surfshark has come to be known as the VPN topping every ‘best of’ compilation doing the rounds. And I don’t just mean the best cheap VPN (though it very much is!); it’s quite the best in that you can invest a tiny sum of money and get the most you’d ever want out of a VPN.

What makes it the perfect choice?

Although this list isn’t in any particular order of preference, I’d rate Surfshark the best VPN amongst all (free and expensive included). I remember when it was first introduced, the going accusation was that Surfshark was undercutting the market prices, but here we are, with the best features still going strong.

What you get for the throwaway price is blazing speeds and layer upon layer of security. 1,000-plus servers spread across 60 locations is good enough as far as networks go, so you can be sure of streaming speeds no matter where you are (even in China, though we are all unlikely to be there anytime soon). For security, you can count on AES-256 encryption, private DNS, no-logs policy and protocols such as OpenVPN UDP and TCP. One additional feature that comes in handy for those intending to use it for work is the option to whitelist websites of your choice. A kill switch is included, and the in-built anti-malware, ad-blocker and tracker-blocker make the browsing life smoother.

What makes Surfshark the perfect choice though, is its star feature: unlimited device support. Which means it can support laptops, macs and phones, regardless of the operating system, and do so for literally every family member, friend or housemate you care to add. Surfsharkalso offers 24/7 live chat support for any issues you face along the way.

How cheap is it?

Very, very cheap for all it offers. We’re talking $1.99 per month for a two-year plan; that’s 83% savings. There’s no free trial version, but their long-term plans are refundable for up to 30 days after purchase, so go right ahead and test the performance for yourself.

What Redditors say about Surfshark

u/Willingplane: I use Surfshark and no problem with Netflix and a number of other services, but haven’t been able to get it to work with Amazon Prime video service.

Have it installed on 16 devices, have been using for over a month and no crashes either, but don’t torrent anyway.

u/n1ght_w1ng08: I’m also using Surfshark, but I setup OpenVPN on DDWRT. I agree with you there are occasional lags with the Windows App. But the Android one is stable.

u/HollyMullvad: First time surfshark user here. Using it for some days now, and i like it! On android i’m using their client and with the help of android 9.0 killswitch is possible. On my mac, i’m using Viscosity app to handle it using openvpn config files, so i can select specific servers, and it looks better on MACOS. also using littlesnitch to handle as a killswitch

2. ExpressVPN – Not Cheap But Most Powerful VPN

You might be surprised to see ExpressVPN on the best-cheap list, but then we wouldn’t want to deprive you of one of the best VPNs on the market. Besides, you’d be surprised by how many more expensive VPNs there are out there.

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What makes it the perfect choice?

The reason why ExpressVPN is impossible to leave out of any VPN analyses, is Netflix. Sure, we all have different reasons for using VPNs, but unlocking geo-restricted content on Netflix rates as amongst the highest reasons for most users looking to invest in a VPN.

The stakes are high with over 3,000 servers spread across 94 locations, which means your binge-watching needs will be resolved once and for all. Also, you know that niggling step of trying endless number of servers before one clicks? ExpressVPN spares you the trouble with its incredibly prompt 24/7 live chat. A quick message and you are on your way to the right server.

ExpressVPN is equipped with 30,000 IP address – that’s enough to have you hopping around without a trace – and has its security measures firmly locked into place. Its TrustedServertechnology ensures that the no-logs policy is adhered to, and there’s a kill switch that is useful in case your connection drops (though that rarely happens).

What’s more, ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer DNS works even with VPN-unfriendly devices such as game consoles and Apple TV, and can be connected to 5 devices simultaneously (not as generous as Surfshark, but still). And if all this doesn’t sound good enough, it also has the option of paying anonymously by Bitcoin.

How cheap is it?

Although a tad bit expensive, in case of ExpressVPN the annual subscription ends up cheaper and quite fair if you consider the strength of the services provided. It costs $8.32 per month, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee which you probably won’t be needing. There’s also a 7-day trial version available for Android users.

What Redditors say about ExpressVPN

u/danielsuarez369: ExpressVPN is probably the best VPN out there. Honestly stay away from VPNs like PIA.

u/Cast87: My 12 month subscription (+3 months free) is coming to an end this month and I was just looking to see if there was a cheaper VPN available. I guess I’ll stick with expressVPN, they might be more expensive but you pay for quality. Never had a problem with it, running on W7, W10 and Android.

u/TommyJarvis12: Yep, I have zero complaints with ExpressVPN. I’ve been using it for about 6 months now. You get 30 days free too.

3. NordVPN – Good Balance of Price and Performance

If your aim in acquiring a VPN is security, look no further. NordVPN is amongst the most credible names in the world of affordable VPNs. And being a Panama-based service, NordVPN is practically invincible as far as that fussy thing called law goes.

Get 70%+ Discount With NordVPN

What makes it the perfect choice?

5,800 servers in over 58 locations is no simple feat, you’d agree. What we have here is the most extensive server network offered by any VPN on this list or elsewhere. This means high bandwidth for HD streaming and excellent speeds in most prime locations around the world.Netflix users please pay heed!

What makes NordVPN the perfect choice though, is double data protection. That is, the usual 256-bit encryption coupled with a solid 2048-bit encryption that has you covered from every angle possible. It comes equipped with a DNS leak protection, a dedicated IP address (if you prefer), two kill switches and a zero-logs policy. The only little glitch is that turning the double encryption on will compromise on speed.

The user interface is a real delight for its ease, and it is compatible with all operating systemsand connects to 6 devices simultaneously. Torrenting is very much allowed, and considering the security features you can go crazy over it without a care for authorities or locations.

How cheap is it?

Here’s the flipside – NordVPN is a costly buy if you just need a VPN for a month or two. But hike that up to a three-year subscription and you got a swell deal in your hands. It costs $3.49 per month and offers flexible payment options including Bitcoin or Paypal. Comes with a 30-day refund policy, so you are welcome to give it a shot before buying.

What Redditors say about NordVPN:

u/IAmMohit: “Nord VPN. Been using it for three years. Very satisfied. Has dedicated servers for Netflix.”

u/mdkb: “I am in Aus and went for NordVPN after some research, and though I found it a bit fiddly at first, like I have to keep changing servers almost every day and hunt for something that works, even to get simple traffic or a ping working. It seems pretty good once I find a country that is working. speeds can vary but its working ok.”

u/Naturist02: “I run NordVPN on Windows, MAC, and Linux Mint. I love it. Install NordVPN via the Terrminal on Linux. . It’s easier to use. Also if you run it in Terminal it only works with the TCP connections.”

u/monk12314: “I love Nord but a few notes: amazon, Netflix, and Hulu may not work for you (amazon never works for me no matter server (in us)) and I’d move away from Google as they have those annoying recaptcha every time I use them. Other than that Amazing service! Really don’t let those negatives move you away I’ve loved them for 2 years already.”

4. PureVPN – Good Cheap VPN

PureVPN isn’t the absolute best, but it will save you a buck and do the basic job of providing good security at decent speeds. The fact that it is a Hong Kong-based vendor does give me the goosebumps (strict laws yo!), but stay far and you get just the kind of cheap VPN you need for unblocking geo-restricted content.

Get 74% Discount With PureVPN

What makes it the perfect choice?

PureVPN features on this list for being a fuss-free VPN that has been at it for 13 years and still manages decent speeds without bombarding you with errors and without burning a large hole in the pocket.

It boasts over 2,000 servers in 140 locations, which is an impressive start, plus 300,000 IP address (which actually is a lot, and I wonder if we even end up needing as many). PureVPNclaims to follow a no-logs policy, enables leak protection and split tunneling, and has a functional kill switch in place. What we like about it is that PureVPN was amongst the first VPNs to fully comply with EU data protection policies.

Other worthwhile features include compatibility with multiple platforms, and Kodi and Chromebook users will appreciate the solutions provided by PureVPN.

How cheap is it?

PureVPN’s two-year subscription costs $3.33 a month and comes with a 31-day money-back guarantee which I’d suggest you avail of and check for yourself before investing further. Thankfully, it accepts Bitcoin payments, which helps you stay more anonymous.

5. IPVanish – Best Cheap VPN For Torrenting

IPVanish needs no introduction for US-based VPN users. Not just because it’s a US-based company, but also because it has been around for well over a decade, and barring some changes in ownership, it has been a consistent, affordable service.

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What makes it the perfect choice?

Perhaps a more accurate question would be – who is IPVanish a perfect choice for? Because the answer’s pretty straightforward – it’s a great buy for beginners looking to tinker with a VPN but don’t want to invest too much effort or dosh into it.

For starters, the IPVanish app literally invites the user to explore its multiple settings and options configured into a superbly easy interface. Easy to install, doesn’t require validation/verification for each device – 10 of them! that’s the amazing part – and up and running in no time at all.

IPVanish has over 1,300 servers (all IPVanish-owned) spread across 75 countries largely around the US and Europe. The speeds you get are reasonably high, and with 40,000-plus domain names they only get better. For security, it uses 256-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol. You might know that OpenVPN requires downloading a client, but surprisingly IPVanish does offer an alternative special web proxy server called SOCKS5 that allows youto skip that step.

Like most others, IPVanish claims to have a no-logs policy in place, though there has been an incident in the past where they did share data with the authorities, which has led to some distrust on this account. DNS and IPv6 leak protection, traffic obfuscation and a kill switchmake your online presence more secure, plus you can sign up and opt to pay anonymously.

Best part? IPVanish lets you connect to 10 devices simultaneously, so even your extended family’s trails will be well-covered. And the worst part? Well, if it isn’t a US-based server you are tapping into, Netflix isn’t going to be this VPN’s strong point.

How cheap is it?

IPVanish will be too costly to vanish on if you go for a monthly plan, but a one-year subscription is available at $3.25 per month, which seems fair. There’s no 30-day trial version, but you get a 7-day money-back guarantee on purchase, so make sure you fiddle around enough in that week to know its worth.

6. HideMyAss VPN

Look, it may not be the top VPN in terms of features, but you’ve got to give it a closer look, for its name if nothing else! It does have a bunch of good features to try out, even if the vendor happens to be UK-based, and hence liable to share your data not only with UK courts but also US authorities. So read on at your own risk, because Big Brother might be watching you at least partially.

Save 67% on HideMyAss

What makes it the perfect choice?

Why is HideMyAss! on this list at all? Primarily because of the speeds. Although just 930-server strong, it does have presence in over 190 countries and ends up providing consistence speeds in places as far-flung as Greenland and Sudan. That’s saying something, because most other VPNs tend to ace only in the US and Europe.

In terms of security, HideMyAss! uses the OpenVPN protocol, 256-bit encryption and has its own DNS service to protect you against leaks. It also comes with two kill switches so you can forget all about dropped connections. There’s a glaring drawback though – HideMyAss! does not have a zero-log policy. A quick glance through their existing logging policy will tell you about the ‘selective data’ they choose to retain. I’d be a bit careful with this one.

HideMyAss! used to be great for streaming, but that isn’t what our tests revealed. We kept getting the same ‘streaming error’ no matter which server we tried to unblock Netflix with. Also, we noticed a sharp dip in data-transfer speeds while trying to torrent. That’s a lousyminus in my books!

However, what HideMyAss! lacks in security it tries to make up for with an easy-to-use app, and the option to connect simultaneously with up to 5 devices. I’d say try it out for a week before you click buy.

How cheap is it?

The monthly subscription is so expensive by industry standards, that if you were only looking at a VPN for a few months I’d label this one as a strict no-no. But take up a 2-year plan and then we’re talking – at $4.99 a month it isn’t so bad for those of you who are global jetsettersand want VPN access in less popular locations. One good news is that they have a 30-day trial version available as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee. So effectively you get 60 days to make your decision.

What about free VPNs Instead Of Cheap VPNs?

Before I take us to the conclusion, a quick note on free VPN alternatives. There are in fact plenty of freebies available for download, but they offer limited features and, to be honest, I have my doubts regarding their security measures and logging policies. Also, they pop in and out because most intelligent services you are trying to unblock – such as Netflix – are ahead of the game. As in, the free VPNs are the first to get detected and blocked. That said, the few that deserve mention here include ProtonVPN, TunnelBear and Hotspot Shield. They are, at best, good for casual use. For unlimited service I’d still prefer paying a few bucks to be on the safe side.

Verdict: Which is the Best Cheap VPN According to Reddit in 2023?

As I mentioned right in the beginning, there are certain parameters that you should keep in mind while selecting. But besides those, I’d also suggest you give some thought to your purpose behind requiring a VPN in the first place – Is it to protect your personal data because you often log on to public networks? Is it to unlock geo-restricted content? Is it to keep your data safe from annoyingly persistent ads? Knowing the reasons will go a long way in giving you a satisfying VPN experience.

Now, if this article was about, for example, survival kits or stethoscopes, I wouldn’t really be recommending a whole list of cheap options to shop for. But VPNs provide simple services, and as long as the one you choose doesn’t compromise on security (because you don’t want FBI bumming your morning after a night of binge-watching), a cheap bargain is quite the best deal.

There are several VPN service providers that do the job well. Each of the ones reviewed above (barring, yes, the last option) come with solid encryption, no-logs policy and DNS leak protections. Of course, speeds tend to depend upon your local connection too, but overall the VPNs listed here fare well on our performance charts.

I have tried all of the above, and after careful evaluation find Surfshark to be the best value-for-money deal amongst all VPNs. Really, the kind of speeds and security it offers are mind-blowing for the meagre monthly fee. A totally worthwhile investment.

Lastly, make sure you exploit the free trial offers to the fullest before you zoom in on your VPN of choice. Go VPN-hopping if you must, but find the right service because most VPNs (cheap or not) only make for a cheap buy if you go for the long-term subscriptions. And considering there’d be more than one device hooked on to each, the trial-and-error method isn’t a waste of time at all.

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