Splash out or skimp? The pros and cons of choosing a more expensive VPN

With the new year barely underway, it's a good time to take stock of your digital habits, especially when it comes to online privacy and security. A virtual private network (VPN) is one of the most effective tools to help keep your data safe, your real location hidden, and your browsing more private.

But with so many providers on the market offering plans at vastly different price points, the decision isn't always straightforward. Some cost just a couple of dollars per month, while others charge a premium, and figuring out what you actually need can be confusing, especially for first-time users.

Is it worth splashing out on a premium VPN service, or can a budget-friendly option do the job just as well? Do you really get what you pay for when it comes to today's best VPNs?

In this guide, we break down ...