How is this calculated?
For each VPN we take the "best value" plan (typically 2–3 years) as the reference. During the plan term the discounted price applies; after it expires we assume renewal at the monthly-plan rate. This is the source of most Trustpilot complaints — users see "$30 the first year, $120 the second year."
How to dodge the renewal trap
- Disable auto-renew — log in to your VPN account and turn off auto-renew in billing settings.
- 1–2 weeks before expiry, buy a fresh discounted plan from the same provider or a different one.
- Mind the Mullvad exception — flat €5/month, no discount/renewal trap. Better for consistency than for squeezing out savings.
Which term makes sense?
- 1 year: The right balance for most users — meaningful discount, manageable commitment.
- 2–3 years: Lowest effective monthly, but a 3-year commitment to one provider. The VPN market moves fast — even cheap is risky.
- Monthly: Flexibility but 2–3× more expensive. Only for short-term needs.