Monthly equivalent versus monthly billing
A price expressed per month does not necessarily mean you pay each month. Read the billing line beside the offer. It should explain how much is collected and what subscription period that payment covers.
For example, $2 per month over 24 months equals $48 upfront, before any applicable taxes. This is an illustration, not a current offer from a VPN provider.
Do the math in the same currency
Divide the total initial charge by the number of months included to calculate the initial monthly equivalent. Include any bonus months that are actually part of the offer. For a hypothetical $60 subscription covering 27 months, the equivalent is about $2.22 per month.
Use final checkout totals when comparing providers, so that you account for applicable taxes and the exact plan selected. Avoid comparing a basic VPN plan with a bundle of additional products unless you want those extras.
A discount percentage leaves out context
A percentage saving uses a reference price. It does not tell you the total you will pay, whether a competitor costs less, or whether the renewal is affordable. Focus first on the payment amount and commitment.
Read renewal as a separate purchase
Check the amount and interval that apply after your first term. Do not assume that bonus months repeat or that the introductory monthly equivalent will continue.
Save the terms and set a calendar reminder before the renewal date. If you decide to cancel automatic renewal, follow the provider’s instructions and retain the confirmation.
Your checkout checklist
- Is the displayed currency the one you intend to pay in?
- What is the total payment, including applicable taxes?
- How many months are included in the first term?
- What amount and period apply to renewal?
- Are optional extras selected?
- What refund conditions apply to this purchase method?
Check offers directly at NordVPN or Surfshark, and read our guide to choosing a subscription length if you are unsure how long to commit.