Mullvad VPN vs Private Internet Access
Mullvad VPN and Private Internet Access consistently rank among the top VPNs, but they take different approaches to security, speed, and features. After testing both extensively, I've found they each excel in distinct areas. Mullvad VPN edges ahead with a 8.5/10 rating, but that doesn't mean it's the right choice for everyone.
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Quick Answer
Mullvad VPN beats Private Internet Access for most users. It scores 8.5/10 vs 8.3/10 and no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number. Choose Private Internet Access if you need proven no-logs policy (verified in court).
Mullvad VPN
WinnerPrivacy-first VPN with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing
Starting from
$4.75/mo
Private Internet Access
Veteran VPN with 35,000+ servers and proven no-logs policy
Starting from
$2.03/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Starting Price | $4.75/mo | $2.03/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Performance | ||
| Servers | 700+ | 35,000+ |
| Countries | 49 | 91 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 5 | Unlimited |
| Security | ||
| Kill Switch | ||
| No Logs Policy | ||
| Double VPN | ||
| RAM-Only Servers | ||
| Features | ||
| Split Tunneling | ||
| Streaming Support | ||
| Torrenting | ||
| Dedicated IP | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Mullvad VPN
- No personal information required - just a 16-digit account number
- Simple flat pricing of €5/month with no upsells
- RAM-only servers that don't retain data
- Post-quantum encryption support (DAITA)
- Accepts cash and cryptocurrency payments
- Partnership with Tor Project for Mullvad Browser
- All servers are 10-20 Gbps
- Doesn't work with Netflix or most streaming services
- Only 5 simultaneous device connections
- Smaller server network (700+ servers)
- No dedicated mobile apps features
Private Internet Access
- Proven no-logs policy (verified in court)
- Unlimited device connections
- 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Servers in all 50 US states
- Highly customizable settings
- Open-source apps
- 7-day free trial on mobile
- US-based company
- Interface can be complex for beginners
- Streaming support is hit or miss
Key Difference
The key difference: Mullvad VPN offers double vpn while Private Internet Access provides streaming support. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Mullvad VPN
Choose Mullvad VPN if you prioritize no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number, or value simple flat pricing of €5/month with no upsells.
Private Internet Access
Choose Private Internet Access if you prioritize proven no-logs policy (verified in court), need unlimited usage, or value unlimited device connections.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Mullvad VPN is our winner with a rating of 8.5/10 compared to Private Internet Access's 8.3/10. Mullvad VPN stands out for its no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number and simple flat pricing of €5/month with no upsells. Mullvad VPN also offers better value at its price point. However, Private Internet Access remains an excellent choice if proven no-logs policy (verified in court) is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Switching VPNs is straightforward - just cancel your subscription and sign up for the new service. Both Mullvad VPN and Private Internet Access offer money-back guarantees, so you can try before fully committing. No data migration is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mullvad VPN better than Private Internet Access?
Mullvad VPN scores higher in our testing (8.5/10 vs 8.3/10). Mullvad VPN excels at no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number, while Private Internet Access is better for proven no-logs policy (verified in court).
Which is cheaper, Mullvad VPN or Private Internet Access?
Mullvad VPN is more affordable at $5.50/mo vs $11.95/mo. Mullvad VPN offers 54% savings.
Mullvad VPN vs Private Internet Access: which should I choose?
Choose Mullvad VPN if you prioritize no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number. Choose Private Internet Access if you need proven no-logs policy (verified in court). Both are solid vpns options.
What's the main difference between Mullvad VPN and Private Internet Access?
The main difference is Mullvad VPN offers privacy-first vpn with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing, while Private Internet Access focuses on veteran vpn with 35,000+ servers and proven no-logs policy.