Travel eSIMs have replaced physical SIM cards for most international travelers. Instead of hunting for a local SIM at the airport, you download an app, buy a data plan, and activate it before you even board your flight. No contracts, no roaming fees, no plastic.

We’ve tested the leading eSIM providers and compared them on pricing, coverage, features, speed, and ease of use. Here are the best options for 2026.

Best Travel eSIMs at a Glance

Provider	Best For	Starting Price	Countries	Key Differentiator
Saily	Security-conscious travelers	$1.79 / 1 GB	200+	Built-in VPN, ad blocker, web protection (by NordVPN team)
Airalo	Widest plan selection	~$4.50 / 1 GB	200+	Marketplace model with multiple carrier options per destination
Holafly	Unlimited data plans	~$6.00 / day	200+	Truly unlimited data with no throttling (select destinations)
Nomad	Multi-trip management	~$4.00 / 1 GB	190+	Strong app for managing multiple eSIMs and switching plans
Ubigi	IoT & device variety	~$4.00 / 1 GB	200+	Works on laptops, tablets, and smartwatches alongside phones

Our #1 Pick: Saily

Saily earns the top spot because it does everything a travel eSIM should do — affordable prepaid data in 200+ countries, fast setup, reliable connectivity — and then adds a layer of security that no other provider matches. Built by the team behind NordVPN, every Saily plan includes a virtual location changer (powered by NordVPN’s server network), an ad blocker that saves up to 28.6% of your data, and web protection that blocks malicious sites and trackers.

Pricing starts at $1.79 for 1 GB, making it one of the cheapest options available. For most popular destinations (US, UK, Japan, France, Thailand), expect to pay around $3.99 for a 1 GB / 7-day plan — typically equal to or cheaper than Airalo.

Saily also offers the Saily Ultra subscription ($59.99/month) for frequent travelers, which bundles unlimited global data, the full Nord Security suite, airport lounge access, and fast-track at security.

For a complete breakdown, see our full Saily review and Saily pricing guide.

Get Saily — plans from $1.79 with built-in security

Runner-Up: Airalo

Airalo operates as a marketplace — instead of offering its own plans, it aggregates options from multiple local carriers per destination. This gives you a wider selection of plans to compare, which can be an advantage in destinations where one local carrier offers a significantly better deal.

Where Airalo falls short is security. It offers no VPN, no ad blocking, and no web protection. If you’re traveling and connecting to hotel Wi-Fi, airport networks, or café hotspots, you’ll need a separate VPN to stay protected. For a detailed head-to-head, see our Saily vs. Airalo comparison.

Best for Unlimited Data: Holafly

Holafly specializes in unlimited data plans with no throttling at select destinations. If you need heavy data usage (streaming, long video calls, large file transfers) and don’t want to worry about hitting a cap, Holafly is the most straightforward unlimited option. Plans are priced per day and are more expensive than Saily or Airalo per-gigabyte, but the unlimited model simplifies budgeting for data-heavy travelers.

Like Airalo, Holafly doesn’t include any built-in security features.

What to Look for in a Travel eSIM

When choosing a travel eSIM, consider these factors beyond just price per gigabyte:

Coverage: Make sure your destination is covered. All major providers support popular tourist destinations, but coverage can be spotty in smaller or more remote countries.

Security: You’ll be connecting to unfamiliar networks abroad. An eSIM with built-in VPN or web protection (like Saily) saves you from needing a separate security app. If your eSIM doesn’t include this, pair it with a VPN for public spaces.

Data amount and validity: A 1 GB / 7-day plan is fine for a quick weekend trip with Wi-Fi access at your hotel. For a week of GPS navigation, social media, and messaging, plan for at least 3–5 GB. For remote work, look at 10 GB+ plans or unlimited options.

Activation method: Most eSIMs activate automatically when you arrive at your destination. Some providers let you schedule activation in advance. Install before you leave home to avoid any setup issues on arrival.

Support: 24/7 live chat is essential. If your eSIM fails to activate in a foreign country at midnight, you need help immediately. Both Saily and Airalo offer round-the-clock support.

For a deeper understanding of the technology, read our explainer on how eSIM works.

Do You Need a VPN With Your eSIM?

Yes — especially when traveling. Hotel Wi-Fi, airport networks, and café hotspots are prime targets for evil twin attacks, man-in-the-middle attacks, and packet sniffing. Even on mobile data, a VPN encrypts your connection and hides your browsing from your eSIM provider’s network partner.

Saily handles this with built-in virtual location and web protection. If you choose a different eSIM provider, pair it with a standalone VPN like NordVPN (from $3.39/month on a 2-year plan). See our NordVPN pricing guide for the full breakdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into modern smartphones. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you download a data profile through an app. Your phone can run both your regular SIM and the eSIM simultaneously — keeping your home number active while using the eSIM for mobile data abroad. For a full explanation, see how eSIM works.

Which phones support eSIM?

Most modern smartphones support eSIM, including iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3a and later, and many other Android devices. Check your device’s specifications or your eSIM provider’s compatibility list before purchasing.

Is eSIM cheaper than roaming?

Significantly. A 1 GB eSIM plan costs $1.79–$4.50 depending on the provider and destination. Carrier roaming for the same amount of data can cost $50–$100+ depending on your home carrier. Even unlimited eSIM plans are a fraction of what most carriers charge for international roaming.

Can I use eSIM for calls and texts?

Most travel eSIMs (including Saily and Airalo) are data-only. You’ll use your regular SIM for calls and texts, or use VoIP apps (WhatsApp, FaceTime, Zoom) over your eSIM data connection.

More Resources

Saily Pricing (Full Breakdown)
Saily eSIM Review
Saily Ultra Review
Saily vs. Airalo
How Does eSIM Work?
NordVPN Pricing & Plans
Best VPN for Public Spaces
Best VPNs for Streaming

Saily and Airalo are two of the most popular travel eSIM apps on the market. Both offer prepaid data plans in 200+ countries, both work on the same eSIM technology, and both let you skip the hassle of physical SIM cards when traveling. The key differences come down to security features, pricing structure, and extra perks.

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose the right one for your next trip.

Quick Verdict

Choose Saily if: You care about privacy and security while traveling. Saily includes a virtual location changer, ad blocker, and web protection on every plan — features Airalo doesn’t offer at all. It’s built by the NordVPN team and shows. Get Saily here.

Choose Airalo if: You want the widest selection of local carrier plans and prefer to compare options from multiple providers within the Airalo marketplace.

Saily vs. Airalo — Feature Comparison

Feature	Saily	Airalo
Countries Covered	200+	200+
Plan Types	Local, Regional, Global, Ultra (subscription)	Local, Regional, Global
Starting Price	$1.79 (1 GB / 7 days)	$4.50 (1 GB / 7 days, varies by destination)
Unlimited Plans	✓ (select destinations + Ultra)	✗
Virtual Location / VPN	✓ (115+ locations, included free)	✗
Ad Blocker	✓ (saves ~28.6% data)	✗
Web Protection	✓ (blocks malicious sites & trackers)	✗
eSIM Sharing (Family)	✓	✗
Data Hotspot/Tethering	Limited	Depends on plan
Phone Calls / SMS	✗ (data only)	✗ (data only)
Premium Subscription Tier	Saily Ultra ($59.99/mo) with NordVPN, lounges, fast-track	✗
Auto Top-Up	✓	✓
Referral Program	✓ ($5 credit)	✓ ($3 credit)
Free Trial	✗	✗
Refund Policy	30 days (non-activated plans)	30 days (non-activated plans)
24/7 Support	✓ (live chat in-app)	✓ (live chat & email)
Backed By	Nord Security (NordVPN)	Independent (Airalo Inc.)

Pricing Comparison — Popular Destinations

For the most popular travel destinations, here’s how the base plans stack up:

Destination	Saily (1 GB / 7 Days)	Airalo (1 GB / 7 Days)
United States	$3.99	$4.50
Japan	$3.99	$4.50
United Kingdom	$4.49	$4.50
France	$3.99	$4.50
Thailand	$3.99	$4.50
Turkey	$3.99	$4.50

Prices are approximate and may vary based on current promotions. For exact pricing, check the Saily app or Airalo directly.

Saily is generally cheaper or equal to Airalo on most popular destinations. Both services are significantly cheaper than carrier roaming, which can cost $5–$15 per megabyte depending on your provider.

Security — Saily’s Biggest Advantage

This is where the comparison isn’t close. Saily includes three built-in security features that Airalo simply doesn’t offer:

Virtual Location lets you browse as if you’re in a different country, using NordVPN’s encrypted server network. This is useful for accessing geo-restricted content, protecting your identity on public Wi-Fi, and avoiding location-based price discrimination — the same things a dedicated VPN does.

Ad Blocker doesn’t just improve your browsing experience — it materially extends your data. On a 1 GB plan, saving 28% of data means effectively getting 1.28 GB for the price of 1 GB.

Web Protection blocks malicious websites and limits trackers. When you’re connecting to networks in unfamiliar countries, this is a genuine safety net. For more on why this matters, see our guides on evil twin attacks and packet sniffing.

If you already run a VPN like NordVPN on your phone, Airalo’s lack of security features is less of an issue. But if you don’t, Saily’s built-in tools give you meaningful protection at no extra cost.

Who Should Choose Saily

Privacy-conscious travelers who want security built into their eSIM. Families who want to share an eSIM across devices. Travelers who want the option to upgrade to Saily Ultra for unlimited data and airport perks. Anyone who values the backing of a major cybersecurity company.

Get Saily — plans from $1.79 with built-in security

Who Should Choose Airalo

Travelers who want the widest marketplace of carrier options per destination. Users who prefer comparing plans from multiple local providers in one app. Price-sensitive users in destinations where Airalo may have a cheaper option from a specific local carrier.

More Resources

Saily Pricing (Full Breakdown)
Saily eSIM Review
Saily Ultra Review
Best eSIM for Travel 2026
How Does eSIM Work?
Best VPN for Public Spaces

Saily Ultra is the premium tier of Nord Security’s travel eSIM service. Priced at $59.99/month, it bundles unlimited global data in 113 countries with the complete Nord Security suite (NordVPN, NordPass, NordLocker, and Incogni), airport lounge access, fast-track security, and priority support — all in one auto-renewing subscription.

It’s a bold pitch: one plan that handles your connectivity, cybersecurity, and airport experience. But at nearly $60/month, is it actually worth it? Here’s the full breakdown.

Check Saily Ultra pricing and current deals

What Saily Ultra Includes

Feature	Details
Global Data	30 GB high-speed data per month in 113 countries, then unlimited at 1 Mbps
NordVPN	Full subscription — 6,400+ servers, 10 devices, Threat Protection Pro, Onion over VPN, Double VPN
NordPass	Password manager with data breach scanner
NordLocker	1 TB encrypted cloud storage
Incogni	Personal data removal from data broker databases
Airport Lounges	Access to lounges at select airports worldwide
Fast-Track	Skip the lines at security and check-in at select airports
Delay Protection	Lounge access if your flight is delayed 2+ hours
Uber Credit	$5/month Uber discount
Cashback	8% back on Saily purchases as credits
Priority Support	24/7 with faster response times
Saily Security Features	Virtual location (115+ locations), ad blocker, web protection

How the Data Works

Saily Ultra gives you 30 GB of high-speed data each month across 113 countries. Once you hit 30 GB, your connection doesn’t cut off — it continues at up to 1 Mbps (enough for messaging, email, maps, and basic browsing). The plan auto-renews monthly, so you never have to top up or manage individual country plans.

For context, 30 GB is enough for roughly 100 hours of web browsing, 60 hours of music streaming, or 15–20 hours of standard-definition video. Most travelers won’t come close to hitting the cap unless they’re using Saily as their primary internet connection for extended periods.

Is the Price Justified? Let’s Do the Math

At $59.99/month, Ultra sounds expensive. But here’s what each component would cost if purchased separately:

Component	Standalone Cost (Monthly)
Global unlimited eSIM data (comparable providers)	$30–$50/month
NordVPN Complete	$5.39–$18.69/month
Incogni	$4.49/month
Airport lounge access (per visit)	$30–$50 per visit
Fast-track (per use)	$10–$25 per use
Total (if purchased separately)	$80–$150+/month

If you travel internationally 2+ times per month, the lounge access and fast-track alone can recoup a significant chunk of the subscription. Add the NordVPN Complete equivalent and unlimited global data, and Ultra starts to look like a genuine value proposition for frequent travelers.

Who Saily Ultra Is For

Frequent business travelers who fly internationally multiple times per month. The lounge access, fast-track, and always-on global data eliminate friction at every step.

Digital nomads who work from different countries and need reliable data without hunting for local SIMs. The NordVPN subscription adds essential security for remote work on unfamiliar networks.

Extended travelers on multi-month trips across multiple countries. Instead of buying and managing separate eSIM plans for each destination, Ultra covers 113 countries under one plan.

Who Should Skip Ultra

Occasional travelers (1–3 trips per year) are better served by Saily’s standard prepaid plans. A $3.99 local plan for a week-long vacation is hard to beat on value.

Budget travelers who don’t need airport perks. The standard Saily plans or alternatives like Airalo offer cheaper connectivity without the premium extras.

People who already have NordVPN. If you’re on a NordVPN Plus or Complete plan, you’re already covered on the security front. Standard Saily plans plus your existing NordVPN subscription may be the more cost-effective combo.

Ultra vs. Standard Saily Plans — When to Switch

A simple rule of thumb: if you spend more than $60/month on eSIM data plans (including across multiple destinations) and you also pay for a VPN, Ultra likely saves you money while adding airport perks. If you travel once or twice a year, stick with standard prepaid plans from the Saily pricing page.

The good news is that Ultra has no long-term commitment. It’s month-to-month and cancellable anytime, so you can activate it for a heavy travel month and cancel when you’re back home.

The Bottom Line

Saily Ultra is the most ambitious travel eSIM product on the market. It’s not for everyone — at $59.99/month, it’s a premium commitment. But for frequent international travelers who want one subscription to handle data, security, and airport comfort, nothing else combines all these elements into a single plan. The bundled NordVPN, NordPass, NordLocker, and Incogni subscriptions add genuine standalone value, and the airport perks are a meaningful quality-of-life upgrade.

Try Saily Ultra

More Resources

Saily Pricing (All Plans)
Saily eSIM Review
Saily vs. Airalo
Best eSIM for Travel 2026
NordVPN Pricing & Plans

Saily is a travel eSIM app developed by Nord Security — the same company behind NordVPN. It provides prepaid mobile data in 200+ countries with no contracts, no physical SIM cards, and setup that takes under two minutes. What sets Saily apart from competitors like Airalo and Holafly is its built-in security features: a virtual location changer, ad blocker, and web protection — tools you’d normally only get from a dedicated VPN.

In this review, we’ll cover how Saily works, what it costs, who it’s best for, and whether it delivers enough value to be your go-to travel eSIM.

Try Saily — plans starting at $1.79

How Saily Works

Saily uses eSIM technology — a digital SIM embedded in modern smartphones that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. Here’s the setup process:

1. Download the Saily app (iOS or Android).
2. Choose your destination and pick a data plan.
3. Pay once — no subscription, no auto-renewal on standard plans.
4. Install the eSIM before you travel (takes about 60 seconds).
5. Activate automatically when you arrive at your destination, or within 30 days of purchase.

Your existing phone number stays active on your primary SIM for calls and texts, while Saily handles mobile data on the eSIM. It’s a dual-SIM setup that works seamlessly in the background. For a deeper explanation, see our guide on how eSIM technology works.

Saily Pricing Overview

Saily offers three types of standard prepaid plans plus the premium Ultra subscription:

Local eSIMs — single-country coverage, from $1.79 (1 GB / 7 days). Most popular destinations start around $3.99.
Regional eSIMs — multi-country (e.g., Europe, North America), from $5.99.
Global eSIMs — 121+ countries, from $9.99.
Saily Ultra — $59.99/month subscription with unlimited global data, NordVPN, airport lounges, and more.

For a full breakdown of every plan type, pricing examples by destination, and the Ultra comparison, see our complete Saily pricing guide.

Security Features — Where Saily Stands Out

This is where Saily’s NordVPN DNA shows. Every Saily plan — including the cheapest $1.79 option — includes three security features that no other major eSIM provider offers:

Virtual Location: Powered by NordVPN’s server network, this lets you mask your IP address and appear to browse from 115+ locations worldwide. Useful for accessing geo-restricted content while abroad — similar to what a streaming VPN does, but built right into your eSIM app.

Ad Blocker: Blocks intrusive ads at the network level, which not only improves your browsing experience but also saves mobile data. Nord Security’s own testing showed an average data savings of 28.6% with the ad blocker enabled — that’s meaningful when you’re on a 1 GB or 3 GB plan.

Web Protection: Blocks access to known malicious websites and limits tracking. This is especially valuable when you’re connecting to unfamiliar networks abroad. For more on staying safe on public networks, see our guide to VPNs for public Wi-Fi and man-in-the-middle attack prevention.

Coverage and Speed

Saily covers 200+ countries and territories with plans available for every major travel destination. The service partners with tier-one local carriers in each country, so you get 4G/LTE or 5G connectivity depending on network availability.

Speeds depend on local infrastructure — users report typical download speeds of 20–100 Mbps on 4G, which is more than enough for navigation, messaging, video calls, and streaming. One thing to note: Saily routes traffic through 1Global, which can add latency in some regions. This is generally fine for browsing and apps but may be noticeable for latency-sensitive activities like real-time gaming.

Saily Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Built-in security features (virtual location, ad blocker, web protection)	Data-only — no phone calls or SMS
Plans starting from $1.79	No hotspot support on standard plans
200+ country coverage	“Unlimited” plans have 30 GB high-speed cap before throttling
No contracts or auto-renewals on standard plans	Traffic routing can add latency in some regions
eSIM sharing with family members	No desktop/laptop support (mobile devices only)
24/7 live chat support	App-only purchase and management
Backed by Nord Security (NordVPN team)	Ultra plan is expensive at $59.99/month

Who Should Use Saily?

Casual travelers: If you take 1–3 international trips per year, Saily’s local plans offer the best balance of price and convenience. Buy a plan, install it before your trip, and forget about SIM hunting or roaming fees.

Security-conscious travelers: The built-in virtual location and web protection features make Saily the obvious choice for anyone who cares about privacy abroad. If you’re already a NordVPN user, Saily extends that security ethos to your mobile data.

Frequent flyers and digital nomads: The Saily Ultra plan makes sense if you travel multiple times per month and want unlimited global data, airport lounge access, and the full Nord Security suite bundled into one subscription.

Families: Saily supports eSIM sharing with family members, which is a feature most competitors don’t offer.

Saily vs. the Competition

Saily’s main competitors are Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad. Saily typically matches or beats Airalo on pricing for popular destinations while offering significantly better security features. Holafly focuses on unlimited plans but doesn’t include any privacy tools. For a detailed head-to-head, see our Saily vs. Airalo comparison.

The Bottom Line

Saily is the best travel eSIM for anyone who values security alongside connectivity. The pricing is competitive, the setup is dead simple, and the built-in privacy features are genuinely useful — not just marketing fluff. It’s the only travel eSIM backed by a major cybersecurity company, and it shows.

For basic trips, the $3.99 local plans are hard to beat. For power travelers, Saily Ultra bundles enough value to justify the $59.99/month price tag if you’re on the road regularly.

Try Saily — plans from $1.79 with built-in security

More Resources

Saily Pricing (Full Breakdown)
Saily Ultra Review
Saily vs. Airalo
Best eSIM for Travel 2026
How Does eSIM Work?
NordVPN Pricing & Plans

Saily eSIM Pricing, Plans & Deals (Updated 2026)

Saily is a travel eSIM app built by the team behind NordVPN. It offers prepaid data plans in 200+ countries with no contracts, no hidden fees, and no physical SIM cards to swap. Plans start as low as $1.79 for 1 GB, and the new Saily Ultra subscription ($59.99/month) bundles unlimited global data with the full Nord Security suite, airport lounge access, and fast-track service.

Below you’ll find a complete breakdown of Saily’s pricing structure, plan types, the Ultra subscription, and how it compares to competitors like Airalo.

Check the latest Saily plans and pricing here

How Saily Pricing Works

Saily uses a prepaid, pay-as-you-go model for standard plans. You pick your destination, choose a data amount and validity period, pay once, and you’re done. No subscriptions, no auto-renewals, no surprise charges. The price you see in the app is what you pay.

Saily offers three categories of standard plans, plus the premium Ultra subscription:

Plan Type	Coverage	Starting Price	Best For
Local eSIM	Single country	From $1.79 (1 GB / 7 days)	Short trips, layovers, single-destination vacations
Regional eSIM	Multiple countries in a region (Europe, North America, Asia, etc.)	From $5.99	Multi-country trips, backpacking, business travel across a region
Global eSIM	121+ countries worldwide	From $9.99	Round-the-world travel, digital nomads, frequent flyers
Saily Ultra	113 countries (unlimited data)	$59.99/month	Frequent business travelers, digital nomads, premium travelers

Saily Local eSIM Pricing Examples

Local plans are the cheapest option and cover a single country. Prices vary by destination, but here’s what you can expect for the most popular travel spots.

Destination	1 GB / 7 Days	3 GB / 30 Days	5 GB / 30 Days	10 GB / 30 Days	20 GB / 30 Days
United States	$3.99	$8.99	$11.99	$18.99	$29.99
United Kingdom	$4.49	$8.99	$12.99	$19.99	$29.99
France / Italy	$3.99	$8.99	$11.99	$18.99	$29.99
Japan	$3.99	$8.99	$12.99	$19.99	$34.99
Turkey	$3.99	$6.99	$9.99	$15.99	$24.99
Thailand	$3.99	$6.99	$9.99	$16.99	$27.99

Prices shown in USD. Actual pricing may vary slightly — check the Saily app for exact live pricing in your destination. Some destinations start as low as $1.79 for 1 GB.

Saily Ultra — The Premium Subscription

Saily Ultra is a monthly subscription priced at $59.99/month. It’s designed for frequent travelers, digital nomads, and business travelers who want one plan that covers everything — data, security, and airport perks.

Feature	Standard Saily Plans	Saily Ultra ($59.99/mo)
Data	Prepaid (1–20 GB, fixed validity)	30 GB high-speed + unlimited at 1 Mbps in 113 countries
Billing	One-time payment, no renewals	Monthly subscription, auto-renews
NordVPN included	✗	✓ (full subscription)
NordPass included	✗	✓
NordLocker (1 TB cloud storage)	✗	✓
Incogni (data removal)	✗	✓
Airport lounge access	✗	✓ (select airports)
Fast-track security & check-in	✗	✓
Delay protection (2+ hour delays)	✗	✓ (lounge access)
Uber discount	✗	$5/month Uber credit
Cashback	Up to 5% in Saily credits	8% back in Saily credits
Priority support	✗	✓

At $59.99/month, Ultra isn’t cheap — but consider what you’d pay separately: NordVPN Complete runs about $5–$6/month, Incogni is $4.49/month, and unlimited global eSIM data alone would cost $30–$50/month from most providers. Add airport lounges (typically $30–$50 per visit) and the math starts working for anyone who travels 2+ times per month.

Read our full Saily Ultra review · Get Saily Ultra

Saily Security Features (All Plans)

Unlike most eSIM providers that only offer connectivity, Saily includes built-in privacy and security tools on all plans — a direct benefit of being developed by the NordVPN team.

Feature	Details
Virtual Location	Mask your IP address and appear to browse from 115+ locations (powered by NordVPN servers)
Ad Blocker	Blocks intrusive ads — saves up to 28.6% of mobile data on average
Web Protection	Blocks malicious websites and limits trackers

These features are included at no extra cost on every Saily plan. The ad blocker alone can meaningfully extend how long your data lasts.

Saily Payment Methods

Saily accepts credit/debit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay. All prices are charged in USD — currency conversion fees may apply depending on your bank.

Saily Refund Policy

Non-activated plans are eligible for a full refund within 30 days of purchase. Activated plans may qualify for a full or partial refund within 30 days if less than 1% of data was used or if the plan failed to connect due to technical issues. Saily Ultra can be cancelled anytime, and your access continues until the end of the current billing period.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Saily cost?

Saily’s standard plans start at $1.79 for 1 GB (7 days) in select destinations. Most popular destinations start around $3.99 for 1 GB. Regional and global plans start at $5.99 and $9.99 respectively. Saily Ultra is $59.99/month.

Does Saily support phone calls and SMS?

No. All Saily plans are data-only. You can use VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Zoom for calls over your data connection. Your original phone number stays active for calls and texts on your primary SIM/eSIM.

How does Saily compare to Airalo?

Saily is generally price-competitive with Airalo but includes built-in security features (virtual location, ad blocker, web protection) that Airalo doesn’t offer. Saily also supports data sharing with family members. See our full Saily vs. Airalo comparison.

Is Saily safe?

Yes. Saily is developed by Nord Security, the company behind NordVPN. It uses encrypted data transmission and includes privacy tools not found in other eSIM apps.

What devices work with Saily?

Saily works on any eSIM-compatible device, including recent iPhones (XS and later), Samsung Galaxy phones, Google Pixels, and many other Android devices. Check Saily’s compatibility list in the app before purchasing. For more on how eSIM technology works, see our explainer.

More Saily & Travel Resources

Saily eSIM Review (Full Breakdown)
Saily Ultra Review — Is It Worth $60/Month?
Saily vs. Airalo — Which eSIM Is Better?
Best eSIM for Travel in 2026
How Does eSIM Work?
NordVPN Pricing & Plans
Best VPN for Public Spaces

NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the two most recognized VPN brands in the world, and the comparison between them has shifted significantly in 2026. ExpressVPN’s new tiered pricing brings its entry-level plan below NordVPN for the first time, while NordVPN continues to lead on server count, specialty features, and bundled security tools. Here’s how they stack up across every category that matters.

Quick Verdict

Choose NordVPN if: You want the largest server network, the most specialty server types (Onion over VPN, Double VPN, obfuscated servers), and the best threat protection with Threat Protection Pro. Get the latest NordVPN deal here.

Choose ExpressVPN if: You want the simplest user experience, the fastest protocol (Lightway Turbo), a dedicated IP included at the Pro tier, or eSIM travel data bundled with your subscription.

NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN — Pricing Comparison

Base Plans (VPN-Only Tiers)

	NordVPN Basic	ExpressVPN Basic
Monthly	$12.99/mo	$12.99/mo
1-Year	$4.99/mo ($59.88)	$3.49/mo ($52.39)
2-Year	$3.39/mo ($81.36)	$2.44/mo ($68.40)
Bonus Months	Up to 3	3 (1-year) / 4 (2-year)
Renewal (per year)	~$139.08	~$99.95

ExpressVPN is now cheaper than NordVPN on both the introductory 2-year rate and the annual renewal. However, NordVPN’s Plus plan ($3.89/mo) bundles significantly more features than ExpressVPN Basic — so the better value comparison is between NordVPN Plus and ExpressVPN Advanced.

Mid-Tier Plan Comparison

	NordVPN Plus ($3.89/mo)	ExpressVPN Advanced ($3.49/mo)
VPN	✓	✓
Simultaneous Devices	10	12
Password Manager	NordPass ✓	ExpressKeys ✓
Ad/Tracker/Malware Blocking	Threat Protection Pro ✓	Advanced Protection ✓
Identity Monitoring	Dark Web Monitor ✓	Identity Monitoring ✓
eSIM Travel Data	✗	3 days ✓
Data Breach Scanner	✓	✓

These two plans are very closely matched. ExpressVPN Advanced gives you 2 more device slots and eSIM data; NordVPN Plus gives you Threat Protection Pro, which is widely regarded as the better anti-malware tool. At $0.40/month apart, both are excellent value. For full breakdowns, see our NordVPN pricing guide and ExpressVPN pricing guide.

NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN — Features

Feature	NordVPN	ExpressVPN
Servers	6,400+ in 111+ countries	Servers in 105 countries
Simultaneous Devices	10	10–14 (tier dependent)
Encryption	AES-256 (post-quantum support)	AES-256
Protocols	NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2	Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2
Kill Switch	✓	✓ (Network Lock)
Split Tunneling	✓	✓
Double VPN	✓	✗
Onion over VPN	✓	✗
Obfuscated Servers	✓	✓ (automatic)
Dedicated IP	Add-on (from $3.69/mo)	Included in Pro plan
Meshnet (virtual LAN)	✓ (free)	✗
eSIM Travel Data	✗	3–5 days (Advanced/Pro)
TrustedServer / RAM-Only	✓	✓
No-Logs Policy (audited)	✓	✓
Smart DNS for streaming devices	SmartDNS	MediaStreamer
Dedicated VPN Router	✗ (supports third-party routers)	Aircove (with discounts on higher plans)

NordVPN advantages: More servers, more server types (Double VPN, Onion over VPN, P2P-specific), Meshnet, post-quantum encryption, stronger threat protection, and Docker container support for advanced users.

ExpressVPN advantages: Lightway Turbo protocol (often faster on certain routes), dedicated IP included at Pro tier, eSIM travel data, MediaStreamer for smart TVs and consoles, and the Aircove plug-and-play router.

NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN — Streaming

Both are top-tier streaming VPNs. NordVPN unblocks all major platforms and has dedicated server infrastructure for streaming. ExpressVPN supports streaming on all servers across 105 countries and works with 100+ streaming apps. Both work with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime.

For specific streaming guides, see: How to Change Netflix Region · Best VPNs for YouTube TV · Watch MLB Without Blackouts · Best VPNs for Streaming

NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN — Security

Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption, maintain audited no-logs policies, and run RAM-only server infrastructure. NordVPN has a slight edge with post-quantum encryption support and more granular specialty server options. ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology was one of the first RAM-only implementations in the industry, and its Lightway protocol is purpose-built for speed and security.

Both are excellent on security. For most users, the difference is negligible. Where NordVPN pulls ahead is Threat Protection Pro, which functions as a standalone anti-malware tool even when the VPN is disconnected — something ExpressVPN’s protection features don’t match.

NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN — Who Should Choose Which?

Choose NordVPN if you…

Want the most servers and server variety, need Double VPN or Onion over VPN for maximum privacy, value Threat Protection Pro as a real anti-malware tool, want Meshnet for secure device-to-device networking, or plan to run your VPN in Docker containers or on OpenWrt routers.

Get NordVPN — up to 74% off + bonus months

Choose ExpressVPN if you…

Prioritize the simplest possible setup, want a dedicated IP included in your plan (Pro tier), travel frequently and want eSIM data bundled, prefer the Aircove router for whole-home VPN coverage, or just want the cheapest 2-year basic VPN plan available from a top-tier provider.

More Comparisons and Resources

NordVPN Pricing (Full Breakdown)
ExpressVPN Pricing (Full Breakdown)
Surfshark Pricing (Full Breakdown)
NordVPN vs. Surfshark
NordVPN vs. PureVPN
WireGuard vs. OpenVPN
Best VPN for China
Best VPN for Crypto Trading
Best VPNs for Gaming

NordVPN and Surfshark are two of the most popular VPNs available, and choosing between them usually comes down to a few key differences: NordVPN has a larger server network, more specialty server types, and stronger threat protection tools. Surfshark counters with unlimited device connections, lower pricing, and a 7-day free trial.

We’ve compared every major category — pricing, features, performance, security, streaming, and device support — to help you decide which VPN is the better fit.

Quick Verdict

Choose NordVPN if: You want the largest server network, specialty servers like Onion over VPN and Double VPN, and best-in-class Threat Protection Pro. Get the latest NordVPN deal here.

Choose Surfshark if: You need unlimited device connections, want the lowest possible monthly price, or have a large household to protect.

NordVPN vs. Surfshark — Pricing Comparison

	NordVPN Basic	Surfshark Starter
Monthly	$12.99/mo	$15.45/mo
1-Year	$4.99/mo ($59.88)	$3.19/mo ($47.85)
2-Year	$3.39/mo ($81.36)	$1.99/mo ($53.73)
Renewal (per year)	~$139.08	~$79

Surfshark is cheaper on both introductory and renewal pricing. NordVPN is cheaper on the monthly plan. For full pricing details, see our NordVPN pricing guide and Surfshark pricing guide.

Mid-Tier Plan Comparison

	NordVPN Plus	Surfshark One
2-Year Price	$3.89/mo	$2.49/mo
Includes VPN	✓	✓
Password Manager	NordPass ✓	✗
Antivirus	✗ (Threat Protection Pro is anti-malware, not full AV)	Surfshark Antivirus ✓
Ad/Tracker/Malware Blocking	Threat Protection Pro ✓	CleanWeb ✓
Data Breach Scanner	✓	Surfshark Alert ✓
Private Search Engine	✗	Surfshark Search ✓

Both mid-tier plans offer strong value. NordVPN Plus bundles a well-regarded password manager (NordPass) and one of the best anti-malware tools in any VPN. Surfshark One includes a full antivirus and a private search engine. The right choice depends on which extras matter more to you.

NordVPN vs. Surfshark — Features

Feature	NordVPN	Surfshark
Servers	6,400+ in 111+ countries	4,500+ in 100 countries
Simultaneous Devices	10	Unlimited
Encryption	AES-256 (post-quantum support)	AES-256-GCM
Protocols	NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
Kill Switch	✓	✓
Split Tunneling	✓	✓ (Bypasser)
Double VPN / MultiHop	✓	✓
Onion over VPN	✓	✗
Obfuscated Servers	✓	✓ (Camouflage Mode)
IP Rotation	✗	✓
GPS Spoofing (Android)	✗	✓
Dedicated IP (add-on)	From $3.69/mo	Available
Meshnet (virtual LAN)	✓ (free)	✗
No-Logs Policy	Independently audited	Independently audited
RAM-Only Servers	✓	✓

NordVPN advantages: Larger server network, Onion over VPN, Meshnet, post-quantum encryption support, more specialty server types, and Threat Protection Pro (which functions as standalone anti-malware even without the VPN active).

Surfshark advantages: Unlimited device connections, IP rotation, GPS spoofing on Android, lower pricing, 7-day free trial, and a full antivirus included in the One plan.

NordVPN vs. Surfshark — Streaming

Both VPNs are excellent for streaming. NordVPN and Surfshark reliably unblock Netflix (multiple regions), BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more. NordVPN’s larger server network gives it a slight edge for accessing content in less common regions, but for the major streaming services, both perform well.

For more, see our best VPNs for streaming guide.

NordVPN vs. Surfshark — Who Should Choose Which?

Choose NordVPN if you…

Want the biggest server network, need specialty servers like Onion over VPN or obfuscated servers for restricted countries, value Threat Protection Pro as a standalone anti-malware tool, or want Meshnet for secure device-to-device connections. NordVPN is the better all-around choice for power users and anyone who prioritizes security features.

Get NordVPN — up to 74% off + bonus months

Choose Surfshark if you…

Have a large family or many devices to protect (unlimited connections is a huge advantage), want the absolute lowest price, prefer a VPN with a built-in antivirus (One plan), or value IP rotation and GPS spoofing features. Surfshark is the smarter pick for budget-conscious users and households.

More Comparisons and Resources

NordVPN Pricing (Full Breakdown)
Surfshark Pricing (Full Breakdown)
ExpressVPN Pricing (Full Breakdown)
NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN
NordVPN vs. PureVPN
WireGuard vs. OpenVPN
Best VPN for Public Spaces
Best VPN for China
Countries Where You Need a VPN

ExpressVPN offers three subscription tiers — Basic, Advanced, and Pro — each available as a monthly, 1-year, or 2-year plan. ExpressVPN historically carried a premium price tag, but a recent pricing overhaul has brought its entry-level plans closer to competitors like NordVPN and Surfshark. Two-year plans start as low as $2.44/month with 4 bonus months included.

Below you’ll find a complete breakdown of ExpressVPN’s current pricing, what each tier includes, renewal costs, and whether it’s worth the money compared to alternatives.

ExpressVPN Plans at a Glance

All ExpressVPN plans share the same core VPN — same servers, same Lightway protocol, same encryption. The tiers differ in bundled extras and device limits.

Feature	Basic	Advanced	Pro
VPN (servers in 105 countries)	✓	✓	✓
Simultaneous devices	10	12	14
Lightway protocol	✓	✓	✓
TrustedServer (RAM-only)	✓	✓	✓
Lite Protection (ad/malware filter)	✓	✓	✓
Advanced Protection (enhanced ad/tracker/malware blocking)	✗	✓	✓
ExpressKeys (password manager)	✗	✓	✓
Identity Monitoring & fraud alerts	✗	✓	✓
eSIM travel data	✗	3 days	5 days
Dedicated IP address (included)	✗	✗	✓
Data Removal	✗	✗	✓
Credit monitoring & ID theft insurance	✗	✗	✓
Aircove router discount	✗	Up to 50% off	Up to 77% off

ExpressVPN Pricing by Plan and Term Length

All prices shown are introductory rates. 1-year plans include 3 bonus months (15 months total). 2-year plans include 4 bonus months (28 months total). All plans are billed upfront.

Plan	Monthly	1-Year (per month)	1-Year Total	2-Year (per month)	2-Year Total
Basic	$12.99/mo	$3.49/mo	$52.39	$2.44/mo	$68.40
Advanced	$13.99/mo	$4.19/mo	$62.89	$3.49/mo	$97.72
Pro	$19.99/mo	$6.29/mo	$94.39	$5.24/mo	$146.80

Prices may vary slightly by region and active promotions. Sales tax may apply.

ExpressVPN 2-Year Plan — Best Value

The 2-year plan with 4 bonus months is ExpressVPN’s best deal. The Basic tier drops to $2.44/month — a savings of about 81% compared to monthly billing. The Advanced plan lands at $3.49/month and bundles a password manager, identity monitoring, and eSIM travel data, making it competitive with NordVPN Plus and Surfshark One in terms of overall value.

ExpressVPN Renewal Prices

ExpressVPN’s introductory pricing applies only to your first term. Renewal rates are significantly higher.

Plan	Intro 2-Year Total	Renewal Price (per year)	Renewal Monthly Equivalent
Basic	$68.40	~$99.95/year	~$8.33/mo
Advanced	$97.72	~$119.95/year	~$10.00/mo
Pro	$146.80	~$199.95/year	~$16.66/mo

Auto-renewal is enabled by default. You can cancel within 14 days of a renewal charge for a refund, or disable auto-renewal in your account settings.

ExpressVPN Free Trial and Money-Back Guarantee

7-Day Free Trial: Available on iOS and Android through the respective app stores. Full access to all features with no restrictions.

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: All plans — including the 1-month subscription — include a 30-day money-back guarantee. Contact support for a full refund if you’re not satisfied.

ExpressVPN Core Features (All Plans)

Feature	Details
Servers	Servers in 105 countries
Simultaneous Devices	10 (Basic), 12 (Advanced), 14 (Pro)
Encryption	AES-256
Protocols	Lightway, OpenVPN (TCP/UDP), IKEv2
Kill Switch (Network Lock)	Automatic — blocks internet if VPN drops
Split Tunneling	Route specific apps through or outside the VPN
TrustedServer	RAM-only servers — no data written to hard drives
Private DNS	ExpressVPN runs encrypted DNS on every server
Streaming	Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and 100+ streaming services
No-Logs Policy	Independently audited (KPMG, Cure53)
Platform Support	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Fire TV, routers, browser extensions, gaming consoles (via MediaStreamer)

Which ExpressVPN Plan Should You Choose?

ExpressVPN Basic — Best for Straightforward VPN Use

If you want a fast, reliable VPN without extras, Basic delivers the full ExpressVPN experience: all servers, Lightway protocol, TrustedServer technology, and 10 device connections. At $2.44/month on the 2-year plan, it’s genuinely competitive with NordVPN and Surfshark for the first time.

ExpressVPN Advanced — Best Overall Value

Advanced adds a password manager, enhanced ad/tracker blocking, identity monitoring, and 3 days of eSIM travel data. At $3.49/month (2-year), it bumps your device limit to 12. This is the tier that offers the best balance of features and price for most users.

ExpressVPN Pro — Best for Frequent Travelers & Maximum Protection

Pro includes everything from Advanced plus a dedicated IP address (normally a paid add-on), data removal, credit monitoring, ID theft insurance, and 5 days of eSIM data. At $5.24/month, it’s the most expensive option but includes tools that would cost $10–$15/month if purchased separately.

ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN — Quick Pricing Comparison

	ExpressVPN Basic	NordVPN Basic
2-Year Price	$2.44/mo	$3.39/mo
2-Year Total	$68.40 (28 months)	$81.36 (24 months)
Simultaneous Devices	10	10
Servers	105 countries	6,400+ in 111+ countries
Renewal Price	~$99.95/year	~$139.08/year

ExpressVPN’s new pricing makes it cheaper than NordVPN on the 2-year Basic plan, with a lower renewal rate too. NordVPN has a larger server count and more specialty server types (Onion over VPN, Double VPN, obfuscated servers). For the full NordVPN pricing picture, see our NordVPN pricing guide.

ExpressVPN Payment Methods

ExpressVPN accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does ExpressVPN cost per month?

ExpressVPN’s monthly prices range from $12.99 (Basic) to $19.99 (Pro). Choosing a 2-year plan drops the effective monthly cost to as low as $2.44 for Basic and $5.24 for Pro.

Is ExpressVPN worth the price?

ExpressVPN has historically been the most expensive mainstream VPN, but its 2026 pricing overhaul makes it much more competitive. The Basic 2-year plan is actually cheaper than NordVPN’s equivalent. Where ExpressVPN justifies a premium is in speed, ease of use, and its Lightway protocol. It’s a strong choice for streaming and general privacy.

Does ExpressVPN have a free version?

No free plan. A 7-day free trial is available on iOS and Android via their app stores. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

How many devices can I use ExpressVPN on?

10 devices on Basic, 12 on Advanced, and 14 on Pro. For unlimited devices, you can install ExpressVPN on a router or use the Aircove router (available at a discount on Advanced and Pro plans).

Is ExpressVPN good for streaming?

Yes — ExpressVPN supports streaming on all servers across 105 countries and works with 100+ streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime. It also includes MediaStreamer DNS for devices that don’t support VPN apps natively (smart TVs, gaming consoles).

More VPN Resources

NordVPN Pricing & Plans (Full Breakdown)
Surfshark Pricing & Plans (Full Breakdown)
Best VPNs for Streaming
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Surfshark offers three subscription tiers — Starter, One, and One+ — each available as a monthly, 1-year, or 2-year plan. The standout feature across all tiers is unlimited simultaneous device connections, which makes Surfshark one of the best value VPNs for families and multi-device households. Two-year plans deliver savings of up to 87% compared to monthly billing, and long-term subscriptions typically include 3 bonus months.

Below you’ll find a complete breakdown of Surfshark’s pricing, plan features, renewal rates, and how it stacks up on value.

Check the latest NordVPN pricing for comparison — or keep reading for the full Surfshark breakdown.

Surfshark Plans at a Glance

Every Surfshark plan includes the same core VPN — the same servers, speeds, unlimited connections, and protocols. The tiers differ in bundled security tools.

Feature	Starter	One	One+
VPN (4,500+ servers, 100 countries)	✓	✓	✓
Unlimited simultaneous connections	✓	✓	✓
CleanWeb (ad & tracker blocker)	✓	✓	✓
Alternative ID (email alias generator)	✓	✓	✓
Cookie pop-up blocker	✓	✓	✓
MultiHop (Double VPN)	✓	✓	✓
IP Rotator	✓	✓	✓
Surfshark Antivirus	✗	✓	✓
Surfshark Alert (data breach monitoring)	✗	✓	✓
Surfshark Search (private search engine)	✗	✓	✓
Incogni (data removal service)	✗	✗	✓

Surfshark Pricing by Plan and Term Length

All prices shown are introductory rates for new subscribers. 1-year and 2-year plans include 3 bonus months and are billed upfront as a single payment.

Plan	Monthly	1-Year (per month)	1-Year Total	2-Year (per month)	2-Year Total
Starter	$15.45/mo	$3.19/mo	$47.85	$1.99/mo	$53.73
One	$17.95/mo	$3.39/mo	$50.85	$2.49/mo	$67.23
One+	$20.85/mo	$6.29/mo	$94.35	$4.19/mo	$113.13

Prices may vary slightly by region, currency, and active promotions. Sales tax may apply.

Surfshark 2-Year Plan — Best Value

The 2-year plan is where Surfshark becomes remarkably cheap. The Starter tier drops to $1.99/month — an 87% discount compared to the $15.45 monthly rate. Even the One plan (with antivirus and breach alerts) stays under $2.50/month. All 2-year plans include 3 bonus months, so you’re actually getting 27 months of coverage.

For most users, the One plan at $2.49/month on the 2-year term is the sweet spot. You get the VPN plus antivirus, data breach monitoring, and a private search engine — features that would cost significantly more purchased separately.

Surfshark Renewal Prices — What to Expect

Like most VPN providers, Surfshark’s introductory pricing applies only to your first term. After that, subscriptions renew annually at a higher standard rate. Auto-renewal is enabled by default.

Plan	Intro 2-Year Total	Renewal Price (per year)	Renewal Monthly Equivalent
Starter	$53.73	~$79/year	~$6.58/mo
One	$67.23	~$99/year	~$8.25/mo
One+	$113.13	~$119/year	~$9.92/mo

Surfshark sends a renewal notice 30 days in advance, giving you time to cancel or re-subscribe at a new promotional rate if one is available. You can disable auto-renewal from your account dashboard at any time.

Surfshark Free Trial and Money-Back Guarantee

7-Day Free Trial: Available on iOS, Android, and macOS for 1-year and 2-year plans purchased with PayPal or credit card. You get full access to all features. Cancel before day 7 to avoid being charged.

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: All Surfshark plans include a 30-day refund window. You can combine the free trial with the money-back guarantee for up to 37 days of risk-free testing.

Surfshark Core Features (All Plans)

Feature	Details
Servers	4,500+ servers across 100 countries
Simultaneous Connections	Unlimited
Encryption	AES-256-GCM
Protocols	WireGuard, OpenVPN (TCP/UDP), IKEv2
Kill Switch	Automatic — blocks internet if VPN drops
Split Tunneling (Bypasser)	Route specific apps through or outside the VPN
MultiHop	Route traffic through two VPN servers for extra privacy
IP Rotator	Periodically changes your IP without disconnecting
CleanWeb	Blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts
Streaming	Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and more
No-Logs Policy	Independently audited and verified
Platform Support	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Fire TV, routers, browser extensions

Which Surfshark Plan Should You Choose?

Surfshark Starter — Best for Budget VPN Users

If you just need a fast, reliable VPN with no extras, Starter delivers everything most people need: the full server network, unlimited devices, CleanWeb ad blocking, Alternative ID, and all specialty features like MultiHop and IP Rotator. At $1.99/month on the 2-year plan, it’s one of the cheapest premium VPNs available.

Surfshark One — Best Overall Value

For just $0.50/month more than Starter, the One plan adds antivirus protection, data breach alerts for your emails and passwords, and a private search engine. These features would cost $5–$10/month if purchased separately. This is the tier most users should consider.

Surfshark One+ — Best for Identity Protection

One+ adds Incogni, a data removal service that contacts brokers to delete your personal information from their databases. At $4.19/month on the 2-year plan, it’s still cheaper than many competitors’ base VPN-only plans — and you get the complete security suite on top.

Surfshark vs. NordVPN — Quick Pricing Comparison

Both are top-tier VPNs, but they target slightly different audiences. Here’s how the pricing stacks up on 2-year plans.

	Surfshark Starter	NordVPN Basic
2-Year Price	$1.99/mo	$3.39/mo
Simultaneous Devices	Unlimited	10
Servers	4,500+ in 100 countries	6,400+ in 111+ countries
Renewal Price	~$79/year (~$6.58/mo)	~$139.08/year (~$11.59/mo)

Surfshark wins on price and unlimited devices. NordVPN wins on server network size and raw performance. For a deeper comparison, see our full NordVPN pricing breakdown.

Surfshark Payment Methods

Surfshark accepts credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, Google Pay, Apple Pay, Amazon Pay, and several cryptocurrencies for anonymous payments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Surfshark cost per month?

Surfshark’s monthly price ranges from $15.45 (Starter) to $20.85 (One+). Choosing a 2-year plan drops the effective monthly cost to as low as $1.99 for Starter and $4.19 for One+.

Does Surfshark have a free version?

No free plan, but Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial on iOS, Android, and macOS for 1-year and 2-year plans, plus a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.

How many devices can I use Surfshark on?

Unlimited. Every Surfshark plan supports unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it ideal for families or households with many devices. You can also install it on a compatible router for whole-network coverage.

What happens when Surfshark renews?

After your initial term, Surfshark renews annually at a higher rate (roughly $79/year for Starter, $99/year for One, $119/year for One+). You can disable auto-renewal from your account at any time.

Is Surfshark good for streaming?

Yes. Surfshark reliably unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more. See our guide to the best VPNs for streaming for more details.

More VPN Resources

NordVPN Pricing & Plans (Full Breakdown)
Best VPNs for Streaming
Best VPNs for Gaming
VPN Kill Switch Explained
AES-GCM vs. AES-CBC Encryption
Best VPN for Public Spaces
Best Free VPNs

Check the latest NordVPN pricing here

NordVPN offers four subscription tiers — Basic, Plus, Complete, and Prime — each available as a monthly, 1-year, or 2-year plan. The longer you commit, the lower your effective monthly cost. Two-year plans deliver savings of 70% or more compared to paying month-to-month, and NordVPN frequently sweetens the deal with bonus months and Amazon gift cards during seasonal promotions.

Below is everything you need to know about NordVPN’s current pricing, what each plan includes, available add-ons, renewal rates, and how to get the best deal.

Check the latest NordVPN pricing and current deals here

NordVPN Plans at a Glance

Every NordVPN plan shares the same core VPN — the same servers, speeds, encryption, and 10-device limit. The difference between tiers is the bundle of extra security tools layered on top. Here is a side-by-side comparison of what each tier includes.

Feature	Basic	Plus	Complete	Prime
High-speed VPN (6,400+ servers, 111+ countries)	✓	✓	✓	✓
Connect up to 10 devices	✓	✓	✓	✓
Threat Protection (basic ad & tracker blocking)	✓	✓	✓	✓
Dark Web Monitor (up to 5 emails)	✓	✓	✓	✓
Threat Protection Pro (malware, phishing, download scanning)	✗	✓	✓	✓
NordPass password manager & Data Breach Scanner	✗	✓	✓	✓
1 TB encrypted cloud storage (NordLocker)	✗	✗	✓	✓
Dark Web Monitor Pro (emails, credit cards, national IDs)	✗	✗	✓	✓
Scam Call Protection	✗	✗	✓	✓
NordProtect (identity theft insurance up to $1M, cyber extortion coverage, online fraud protection)	✗	✗	✗	✓

Note: NordVPN Prime is currently available only to US subscribers. In the UK and parts of Europe, the top-tier plan is called NordVPN Ultimate (which substitutes cyber insurance for the data removal service). In Canada, Switzerland, and some EU countries, the equivalent is NordVPN Ultra.

NordVPN Pricing by Plan and Term Length

The table below shows what you can expect to pay for each NordVPN tier across all three billing cycles. These are introductory prices for new subscribers. Longer plans are billed upfront in a single payment.

Plan	Monthly	1-Year (per month)	1-Year Total	2-Year (per month)	2-Year Total
Basic	$12.99/mo	$4.99/mo	$59.88	$3.39/mo	$81.36
Plus	$15.29/mo	$5.49/mo	$82.35	$3.89/mo	$105.03
Complete	$18.69/mo	$6.49/mo	$97.35	$5.39/mo	$132.03
Prime	$25.29/mo	$8.99/mo	$107.88	$7.39/mo	$177.36

Prices shown are introductory rates for new subscribers and may vary slightly by region or active promotion. Sales tax may apply. Visit the official NordVPN pricing page to confirm live pricing.

NordVPN 2-Year Plan — Best Value

The 2-year plan is where NordVPN becomes genuinely affordable. The Basic tier drops to just $3.39/month — that’s roughly 74% less than the $12.99 monthly rate. Even the feature-packed Plus plan comes in under $4/month on the 2-year term.

Two-year plans are billed as a single upfront payment. That means you’ll pay $81.36 for Basic or $105.03 for Plus on day one. It’s a bigger outlay, but the per-month savings are substantial. NordVPN also frequently throws in 3 bonus months on 2-year plans, and current promotions may include Amazon gift cards worth $20–$50 depending on the tier.

Grab the latest 2-year deal from NordVPN

NordVPN 1-Year Plan — The Middle Ground

If two years feels like a long commitment, the annual plan splits the difference. You’ll still save over 60% compared to monthly billing. The Basic 1-year plan works out to $4.99/month ($59.88 upfront), and Plus lands at $5.49/month ($82.35 upfront).

Annual plans are a practical choice if you’re new to NordVPN and want to lock in a discount without a multi-year commitment. You get full access to every feature in your tier, and you’re covered by the same 30-day money-back guarantee.

NordVPN Monthly Plan — Maximum Flexibility

Monthly plans cost between $12.99 and $25.29, depending on the tier. There are no savings and no bonus months — you’re paying for convenience and the ability to cancel anytime without a long-term obligation.

Monthly billing makes sense if you only need a VPN for a short trip, a temporary project, or you want to test NordVPN before committing. For anything beyond a couple of months, switching to an annual or 2-year plan will save you significant money.

NordVPN Renewal Prices — What to Expect After Your First Term

This is the part most pricing pages skip, so pay attention. NordVPN’s introductory prices apply only to your first subscription term. When your plan renews, the price jumps to the standard renewal rate. Auto-renewal is enabled by default.

Plan	Intro 2-Year Total	Renewal Price (per year)	Renewal Monthly Equivalent
Basic	$81.36	$139.08/year	~$11.59/mo
Plus	$105.03	$179.88/year	~$14.99/mo
Complete	$132.03	$219.48/year	~$18.29/mo
Prime	$177.36	$296.28/year	~$24.69/mo

The renewal increase is significant — for Basic, it goes from an average of $3.39/month up to about $11.59/month at renewal. You can turn off auto-renewal anytime from your Nord Account dashboard under the “Billing” section. Many users cancel before renewal and re-subscribe as a new customer to lock in promotional pricing again.

NordVPN Add-Ons

Dedicated IP Address

A NordVPN Dedicated IP gives you a static IP address that only you use. It’s useful for avoiding CAPTCHAs, accessing IP-restricted corporate networks, online banking without repeated verification, and gaming without shared-IP blocklists.

Dedicated IP Term	Price
Monthly	$8.99/mo
1-Year	$5.89/mo
2-Year	$3.69–$4.19/mo

Dedicated IPs are available as an add-on to any NordVPN plan. You can select your server location from 27+ countries, including multiple US cities (New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta, and more), the UK, Germany, France, Japan, and others. You can use the dedicated IP on up to 10 devices simultaneously via OpenVPN, or 1 device via NordLynx.

Incogni (Data Removal Service)

Incogni is a personal data removal tool that contacts data brokers on your behalf and submits deletion requests. It’s included in the Prime plan (US) and available as a standalone add-on for other tiers. As a NordVPN add-on, it typically costs around $4.49/month.

NordVPN Discounts and Seasonal Deals

NordVPN runs promotions throughout the year. The discounts are remarkably consistent — the effective price range doesn’t fluctuate much, but the bonus perks change. Here’s what to expect.

Sale / Promotion	Typical Discount	Common Extras
Black Friday / Cyber Monday	Up to 74% off	3 bonus months, Amazon gift cards
Christmas / New Year	Up to 72% off	1–3 bonus months
Valentine’s Day	Up to 72% off	1–3 bonus months
NordVPN Birthday (March)	Up to 73% off	3 bonus months, Amazon gift cards
Summer Sale	Up to 71% off	1–3 bonus months
Year-Round Affiliate Deals	68–74% off	Varies — often 1–3 bonus months

The bottom line: NordVPN almost always has some kind of deal running. The 2-year plan with bonus months is the most common offer, and the effective monthly price typically lands between $2.99 and $3.69 for the Basic tier during sales. If you see a deal in that range, it’s a good time to subscribe.

See the latest NordVPN deals and claim your discount

Which NordVPN Plan Should You Choose?

With four tiers to pick from, here’s a quick breakdown of who each plan is built for.

NordVPN Basic — Best for Casual VPN Users

If you want a reliable, fast VPN and nothing else, Basic covers all the essentials. You get the full server network, AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, split tunneling, Onion over VPN, Double VPN, and basic Threat Protection. It’s the cheapest option and does everything most people need a VPN to do — secure browsing, streaming, torrenting, and public Wi-Fi protection.

NordVPN Plus — Best Overall Value

Plus adds Threat Protection Pro (full malware, phishing, and ad blocking even when the VPN is off) and NordPass, one of the better password managers on the market. On the 2-year plan, Plus is only about $0.50/month more than Basic. Buying NordPass separately would cost $1.49/month, so the bundle saves money. This is the tier most users should consider.

NordVPN Complete — Best for Digital Security

Complete adds 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage via NordLocker, expanded Dark Web monitoring for credit cards and national IDs, and scam call protection. It’s a good fit if you handle sensitive files or want a centralized security suite without juggling separate subscriptions.

NordVPN Prime — Best for Identity Protection (US Only)

Prime is the all-in-one package. It includes everything from Complete, plus NordProtect — identity theft insurance with up to $1 million in recovery coverage, cyber extortion protection, and online fraud coverage. Choose this if identity theft protection is a priority and you’d rather bundle it with your VPN than pay for a standalone service.

NordVPN Payment Methods

NordVPN accepts a range of payment options including credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, Google Pay, Apple Pay, Amazon Pay, and cryptocurrency. Crypto payments provide an extra layer of privacy since they don’t require personal financial information.

NordVPN Free Trial and Money-Back Guarantee

NordVPN doesn’t offer a traditional free plan, but there are two ways to try it risk-free:

3-Day Free Trial: Available exclusively through the Google Play Store on Android devices. You get full access to all premium features. Google handles the billing and cancellation for the trial period.

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: All NordVPN plans — including monthly subscriptions — come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, contact NordVPN support within 30 days of purchase and request a full refund. This effectively lets you use NordVPN for a month with zero risk on any platform.

Try NordVPN risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee

NordVPN Core Features (All Plans)

Regardless of which tier you choose, every NordVPN subscription includes the same core VPN capabilities:

Feature	Details
Servers	6,400+ servers across 111+ countries
Simultaneous Connections	Up to 10 devices
Encryption	AES-256 with post-quantum encryption support
Protocols	NordLynx (WireGuard-based), OpenVPN (TCP/UDP), IKEv2/IPsec
Kill Switch	Automatic — blocks internet if VPN drops
Split Tunneling	Route specific apps through or outside the VPN
Specialty Servers	Double VPN, Onion over VPN, Obfuscated Servers, P2P
Streaming	Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more
Meshnet	Free feature — create secure private networks between devices
No-Logs Policy	Independently audited and verified
Platform Support	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Fire TV, routers, browser extensions

Is NordVPN Worth It?

NordVPN consistently ranks as one of the top VPN services available. The combination of fast speeds, a massive server network, strong security features, and competitive 2-year pricing makes it hard to beat. It’s not the absolute cheapest VPN on the market — services like Surfshark and Private Internet Access undercut it slightly — but NordVPN’s reliability, streaming performance, and suite of bundled tools justify the small premium.

The Plus plan on a 2-year subscription offers the best balance of features and value for most users. At roughly $3.89/month, you get a top-tier VPN, a password manager, and advanced threat protection — tools that would cost significantly more if purchased individually.

All plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so there’s no risk in trying it.

Get NordVPN now — up to 74% off + bonus months

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does NordVPN cost per month?

NordVPN’s monthly price ranges from $12.99 (Basic) to $25.29 (Prime) if you pay month-to-month. Choosing a 2-year plan drops the effective monthly cost to as low as $3.39 for Basic and $7.39 for Prime.

Does NordVPN have a free version?

No. NordVPN does not offer a free plan. However, Android users can access a 3-day free trial via the Google Play Store, and all plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

What happens when my NordVPN subscription renews?

Your subscription renews at a higher standard rate. For example, the Basic 2-year plan renews at approximately $139.08/year (about $11.59/month) compared to the introductory rate of $3.39/month. You can disable auto-renewal from your Nord Account at any time before the renewal date.

Can I change my NordVPN plan?

You can upgrade to a higher tier at any time, which will extend your subscription. To downgrade, you’ll need to cancel your current plan and purchase a new one at the lower tier.

Does NordVPN offer a student discount?

NordVPN doesn’t have a dedicated student discount program. However, the year-round promotional pricing on 2-year plans already offers substantial savings. Checking during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or back-to-school season may yield the best available deals.

How many devices can I use NordVPN on?

All NordVPN plans support up to 10 simultaneous device connections. If you need more, you can install NordVPN on a router to cover every device on your network under a single connection slot.

Is NordVPN good for streaming?

Yes. NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for unblocking streaming services including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and more. It works reliably for changing your Netflix region, accessing YouTube TV, and watching MLB games without blackouts.

Can I use NordVPN on my Fire TV Stick?

Yes. NordVPN has a native app for Amazon Fire TV. You can install NordVPN on your Fire Stick directly from the Amazon App Store.

Can I run NordVPN in Docker?

Yes. NordVPN supports Docker container setups for advanced users who want to route specific application traffic through the VPN. Check out our guides for NordVPN Docker setup and NordVPN Docker on Windows.

More NordVPN Resources

Explore our other NordVPN guides to get the most out of your subscription:

NordVPN Threat Protection Review
NordVPN Threat Protection vs. Antivirus
NordVPN Threat Protection vs. CyberSec
NordLynx vs. Threat Protection
NordVPN Server Guide
NordVPN Linux Commands Reference
NordVPN Port Forwarding
NordVPN on OpenWrt
NordLayer Review (Business VPN)
Best Travel Routers That Support VPN
Best Home Routers That Support VPN
Best VPNs for Streaming
Best VPNs for Gaming
Best VPN for Crypto Trading