VPN Gift Cards & Prepaid Options
VPN gift cards let you give a VPN subscription without creating an account yourself — the recipient applies the card value to a new or existing account of their choosing. Here's what's currently available and the trade-offs vs buying a subscription directly.
Available VPN Gift Cards
| Provider | Card Type | Where to Buy | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Digital codes | Amazon, Best Buy, newegg | Applies to new or existing accounts |
| Surfshark | Digital codes | Some authorized retailers | Check current availability |
| ExpressVPN | Gift codes (limited markets) | ExpressVPN.com directly | Not always available |
| PIA | No gift card product | — | Purchase subscription directly |
| PrivateVPN | No gift card product | — | Purchase subscription directly |
The Gift Card Math Problem
VPN gift cards typically apply at the provider's monthly list rate, not the 2-year promotional rate. A $30 NordVPN gift card gives approximately 2.3 months at NordVPN's $12.99/mo list rate. Buying a 2-year NordVPN plan directly at $3.49/mo costs $83.76 total — $30 buys about 8.6 months at that rate. The gift card is significantly worse value per month for the provider, but better as a gift (no upfront commitment required of the recipient).
Alternative: Buy a Subscription in Their Name
The better-value gifting approach: purchase a 2-year subscription using the recipient's email address through the deal-page promotional rate. They receive account credentials and get the full promotional rate value rather than list-rate gift card value.
Get NordVPN — Gift via Email Get Surfshark — Gift via EmailFrequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy a NordVPN gift card?
NordVPN digital gift codes are available through Amazon and Best Buy. Search 'NordVPN gift card' on those platforms. Codes are delivered digitally and redeemable on NordVPN's website.
Do VPN gift cards apply at promotional rates?
Typically no — gift cards apply at the provider's monthly list rate, which is significantly higher than promotional 2-year plan rates. A $30 gift card buys fewer months than $30 invested in a 2-year promotional plan. Purchasing a subscription directly in the recipient's name delivers better per-month value.
Can I give someone a VPN subscription without a gift card?
Yes — purchase through the provider's deal page using the recipient's email address. They receive account credentials. This delivers the full promotional rate value vs the list-rate value of gift cards. For family members or close friends, this is the better-value approach.