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A virtual private network, or VPN, offers multiple benefits, such as accessing international television content and live events, safeguarding personal data against online threats, and blocking persistent trackers responsible for targeted advertising. While we advocate for VPN usage, it's wise to compare options in this competitive field. Prices listed on VPN sites frequently don't reflect the true cost to users.

That said, numerous attractive offers are currently available. To attract more users, VPN companies provide substantial reductions for annual or multi-year sign-ups. This approach benefits consumers too, as the initial larger payment results in a much lower effective monthly rate when spread out.

The promotions detailed here mostly involve extended terms, so ensure a prolonged subscription aligns with your needs before committing. If you're considering a VPN signup, continue reading for the top current offers we've identified.

Proton VPN, based in Switzerland, stands as Engadget's preferred VPN service at present, as detailed in our comprehensive review. It delivers a seamless experience across various devices, ideal for homes with multiple users. The service maintains high browsing speeds and minimal delays, even across vast distances. For privacy-focused individuals, Proton VPN uniquely employs full-disk encryption, allowing it to route all traffic without exposing any to the company.

ExpressVPN Basic costs $97.72 for a two-year plan plus four free months (73% discount): Renowned as a top VPN, particularly for beginners, thanks to its intuitive apps and site across platforms. During testing for our ExpressVPN review, it reduced download speeds by under 7% and altered virtual locations successfully 14 times out of 15. Overall, it excels comprehensively, with its main drawback being higher standard pricing, making promotions like this 73% off for 28 months particularly appealing.

ExpressVPN Advanced costs $125.72 for a two-year plan plus four free months (67% discount): ExpressVPN has introduced tiered pricing recently, yet long-term plans still offer comparable savings. Beyond premium VPN functionality, the advanced option provides two extra simultaneous connections (totaling 12), the ExpressVPN Keys password tool, enhanced ad and tracker prevention, identity safeguards, and a 50% reduction on an AirCove router.

NordVPN Basic costs $80.73 for a two-year plan plus three free months (74% discount): NordVPN excels in core VPN essentials. It delivers quick connections, prevents data leaks, and effectively shifts virtual locations. Our NordVPN review highlighted its rapid setup and user-friendly live support. Despite discontinuing Meshnet, it retains innovative tools like direct Tor server access. This pre-Black Friday promotion slashes 74% off the two-year option, including three bonus months.

NordVPN Plus costs $105.03 for a two-year plan plus three free months (74% discount): Another pre-Black Friday reduction applies 74% off to NordVPN's Plus tier. For a modest increase, subscribers gain a robust ad and tracker blocker that also detects malware, along with the NordPass password manager. The Plus package further includes a dark web scanner for personal data breaches.

Surfshark Starter costs $53.73 for a two-year plan plus three free months (87% discount): As Surfshark's entry-level plan, it encompasses the full VPN suite, with One features as optional add-ons. This tier brings cutting-edge capabilities, such as automatic IP rotation to avoid detection and customizable double-hop routing via selected nodes. Speed impacts remain negligible. This ongoing offer delivers 87% savings on 27 months of service.

Surfshark One costs $59.13 for a two-year plan plus three free months (88% discount): While a VPN provides strong protection, Surfshark One enhances it with complementary tools like Surfshark Antivirus for malware scanning on devices and files, Surfshark Alert for breach notifications involving personal details, plus Search and Alternative ID from the base plan. This promotion cuts 88% off the bundle. Upgrading to One+ adds Incogni data removal, though the cost increase may not justify it.

CyberGhost costs $56.94 for a two-year plan plus two free months (83% discount): CyberGhost shines with superior automation via its Smart Rules, which customize app behavior for various Wi-Fi types, excluding trusted networks by name. Options include automatic connection, disconnection, or prompts for action. Its streaming-optimized servers also deliver superior video clarity and reliable access to restricted content. This deal offers 83% off 26 months of access.

hide.me costs $59.95 for a two-year plan plus five free months (79% discount): hide.me offers a standout free tier, topping options like EventVPN and Proton VPN's free plan. For paid upgrades, the two-year deal provides excellent value. It serves as a straightforward entry-level VPN with reliable apps and an expansive server array that warrants higher fees.

Private Internet Access costs $79.20 for a three-year plan plus four free months (83% discount): This optimal rate on a solid VPN requires a specific coupon (linked in the prior section). It secures 39 months for roughly $2 monthly, an 83% cut from regular pricing. PIA packs features like custom DNS, integrated ad blocking, and automation comparable to CyberGhost, though connection speeds may vary.

VPN providers routinely slash prices on extended plans throughout the year, with deeper cuts during events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Mullvad remains a rare outlier, maintaining flat pricing akin to a value staple. Amid constant promotions, distinguishing true value requires vigilance. Maximize savings by seeking holiday specials, student rates, or exclusive codes, such as Proton VPN's for Engadget audience.

A common tactic is extending introductory offers with bonus months to lower average costs. Renewals typically exclude these extras and may limit term lengths, like shortening two-year plans to one year. For long-term users, review renewal terms for post-initial monthly rates to confirm budget compatibility.

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