Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is a privacy-focused security tool that protects your online activity and identity by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address with a strict no-logging policy.
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access is a privacy-focused VPN service providing encrypted internet tunnels, a strict no-logs policy, and high-speed global servers to keep your personal data and online activities secure.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Mullvad VPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Website | mullvad.net | privateinternetaccess.com |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Starting Price | $5/month | $11.95/month |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2009 | 2010 |
| Headquarters | Gothenburg, Sweden | Denver, USA |
Overview
Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is a straightforward privacy tool designed to keep your online activity private without the usual marketing gimmicks. You don't even need an email address to sign up; the system generates a random account number for total anonymity. It routes your traffic through encrypted tunnels using modern protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, ensuring your data remains unreadable to ISPs and hackers.
You can use the service on up to five devices simultaneously, including your phone, tablet, and computer. The software is built on open-source principles, meaning the code is transparent and regularly audited by third parties. It solves the problem of invasive data tracking by providing a high-speed, stable connection that never logs your browsing history or personal details.
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a robust virtual private network that helps you reclaim your online privacy and security. By routing your traffic through encrypted tunnels, it prevents ISPs, hackers, and advertisers from monitoring your browsing habits. You can hide your IP address and change your virtual location with access to a massive network of servers across 91 countries, ensuring you can browse the web without restrictions.
The platform is built on a proven 100% transparent, open-source foundation, meaning anyone can inspect the code for security flaws. You can protect up to unlimited devices simultaneously under a single subscription, making it a practical choice for households or power users with multiple gadgets. Whether you are using public Wi-Fi or just want to stop data tracking at home, PIA provides the tools to stay anonymous.
Overview
Mullvad VPN Features
- Account Number System Generate a random 16-digit account number to sign up—no email, password, or personal information required.
- WireGuard Protocol Access the latest in encryption technology for faster speeds and more secure connections on all your devices.
- Strict No-Logging Browse with confidence knowing your activity, IP address, and bandwidth usage are never tracked or stored.
- External Security Audits Verify the platform's security claims through regular, publicly available third-party audits of the infrastructure and apps.
- Kill Switch Protect your data automatically by blocking all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
- Multi-hop Connections Route your traffic through two or more servers in different countries for an extra layer of privacy.
Private Internet Access Features
- Unlimited Device Connections. Protect every gadget you own at the same time with a single account—no more choosing which device to secure.
- Strict No-Logs Policy. Rest easy knowing your browsing history and personal data are never recorded, stored, or shared with anyone.
- MACE Ad Blocker. Block ads, trackers, and malicious websites at the DNS level to speed up your browsing and improve privacy.
- Advanced Split Tunneling. Choose exactly which apps use the VPN and which access the internet directly for better speed and flexibility.
- Dedicated IP Address. Get a personal IP address that only you use to avoid captchas and maintain access to sensitive accounts.
- Kill Switch Protection. Prevent data leaks by automatically cutting your internet connection if the VPN drops for even a second.
Pricing Comparison
Mullvad VPN Pricing
- 5 simultaneous device connections
- Access to all 650+ servers
- WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
- No personal data required
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- All apps and features included
- Everything in Monthly, plus:
- Pay with physical cash by mail
- 10% discount for crypto payments
- Maximum financial anonymity
- No recurring billing cycles
- Top up account as needed
Private Internet Access Pricing
- Unlimited device connections
- Access to all 91 countries
- MACE ad & malware blocker
- 100% Open-source apps
- 24/7 Customer support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Everything in Monthly, plus:
- Significant discount on monthly rate
- Free email breach monitor
- Advanced kill switch
- High-speed 10Gbps servers
Pros & Cons
Mullvad VPN
Pros
- Unmatched anonymity with no email required
- Consistent flat-rate pricing with no surprises
- High-speed performance using the WireGuard protocol
- Open-source apps allow for full transparency
- Simple interface is very easy to navigate
Cons
- No free trial period available
- Limited ability to unblock streaming services
- Fewer server locations than some competitors
- No live chat support for immediate help
Private Internet Access
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections for all your devices
- Proven no-logs policy verified in court cases
- Highly customizable security settings for advanced users
- Fast connection speeds suitable for 4K streaming
- Excellent native apps for all major platforms
Cons
- Headquartered in the United States (5-Eyes jurisdiction)
- Server speeds can vary depending on location
- Interface may feel complex for VPN beginners