However, a few less popular Netflix locations were unavailable As an improvement from last time, it also works as a BBC iPlayer VPN, which will appeal to Brits abroad. PIA also proved pretty useful when it came to unblocking streaming services, with US Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime posing no problem. > Head to the Private Internet Access to test out this quality cheap VPN In my Private Internet Access review, I also found that PIA's browser extensions were a cut above, offering tons of functionality not often found in other Chrome VPNs. It has all the basics like AES-256 encryption and a kill switch covered, but VPN aficionados will also appreciate the inclusion of more niche features like port forwarding – making PIA an excellent torrenting VPN. In fact, it's the only VPN provider that's had its zero-logging policy proved in court not once, but twice. Headline figures that include over 10,000 servers in 83 countries worldwide, with at least one in each state of the US, show that PIA is no bargain basement throwaway, and over the years it's proved itself to take its customers' privacy seriously. Yes, it's an absolute bargain with prices hovering around the $2-a-month mark, but it's also one of the best services I've reviewed – and has been for a long time. Just like with Surfshark, calling Private Internet Access a 'cheap VPN' feels like it's doing the veteran provider a disservice. Its apps are powerful and customizable, and while Surfshark offers a marginally better package overall, PIA is a very solid choice that may suit those looking to delve into the settings a little more. Private Internet Access is a well-trusted VPN provider that's great for torrenting, is super secure, and can also unblock tons of streaming sites. If you're looking for the very best provider, we'd always steer you towards ExpressVPN – but even at a third of the price, Surfshark sacrifices very little. Overall, Surfshark is a very premium VPN that just happens to have a bargain basement price tag. This is far more generous than many more expensive rivals, and really adds value, especially for families and friends. The final bonus is that Surfshark allows subscribers to install and use the apps on unlimited devices. Delivering over 950 Mbps on my 1Gbps line in testing, it's clear that Surfshark has the performance to max out just about any connection you're likely to connect to. Featuring on both my streaming and Netflix VPN guides, you'll be able to unblock a huge amount of content, from free live sports streams to global platforms like BBC iPlayer, 10Play, ITVX and many more.īuffering isn't an issue either, since Surfshark proved to be one of the very fastest VPNs I've ever used. Unblocking global streaming content is now one the most sought-after VPN abilities, and Surfshark is up there with the very best. The legacy OpenVPN still has its uses, especially when trying to avoid detection on networks that ban VPN use, and Surfshark's Camouflage Mode still implements it. While WireGuard is now the default and what the vast majority of users will stick with, it's good to have some options. OpenVPN (UDP & TCP) and WireGuard protocols come as standard. > Head to the Surfshark website to test out the best cheap VPN This is worth noting, though, since rivals ExpressVPN and NordVPN were untroubled by the same tests. It's worth noting that in my review, I managed to slightly break the kill switch – although unless you're going to be messing around with root processes, this is very unlikely to happen in actual use. Built around AES-256 encryption, your data is protected by an uncrackable algorithm, and you'll also have a kill switch to stop your IP address from leaking should the VPN cut out at any time.
Packing 3,200 servers in a huge 100 countries, Surfshark has great global range, and no matter where you are in the world, there's bound to be a speedy server nearby.įire up the app, and you'll be protected by the full roster of security features you'd expect from any VPN worth its salt.
What's more, although it's undeniably a cheap VPN, it doesn't scrimp on features – the most important of which is security. While it's one of the newer services in the industry, the Netherlands-based VPN has quickly cemented itself as one of the very best, ranking #3 overall regardless of price in my Surfshark review. Surfshark has made a real name for itself since its inception in 2018. What's more, its streaming unblocking performance is only matched by the more expensive NordVPN. When you consider the features you're getting for the price, Surfshark is an easy choice for those looking to save money and stay private online – especially with its current price of $1.99 a month.