NordVPN vs Mullvad VPN
NordVPN and Mullvad VPN 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. NordVPN edges ahead with a 9.4/10 rating, but that doesn't mean it's the right choice for everyone.
Some products are sponsored. Rankings reflect our honest assessment. See our affiliate disclosure
Quick Answer
NordVPN beats Mullvad VPN for most users. It scores 9.4/10 vs 8.5/10 and excellent security with double vpn and onion over vpn. Choose Mullvad VPN if you need no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number.
NordVPN
WinnerIndustry-leading security with 8,900+ servers in 178+ locations
Starting from
$2.99/mo
Mullvad VPN
Privacy-first VPN with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing
Starting from
$4.75/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.4/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $2.99/mo | $4.75/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Performance | ||
| Servers | 8,900+ | 700+ |
| Countries | 178+ locations | 49 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 | 5 |
| Security | ||
| Kill Switch | ||
| No Logs Policy | ||
| Double VPN | ||
| RAM-Only Servers | ||
| Features | ||
| Split Tunneling | ||
| Streaming Support | ||
| Torrenting | ||
| Dedicated IP | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
NordVPN
- Excellent security with double VPN and Onion over VPN
- 8,900+ servers across 178+ locations worldwide
- Great for streaming Netflix and other services
- No-logs policy audited by PwC
- Fast connection speeds up to 1,000 Mbps
- Post-quantum encryption support
- 10 simultaneous device connections
- Tiered pricing can be confusing
- Occasional slow connections to distant servers
- No split tunneling on iOS
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
Key Difference
The key difference: NordVPN offers streaming support while Mullvad VPN provides post quantum. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
NordVPN
Choose NordVPN if you prioritize excellent security with double vpn and onion over vpn, or value 8,900+ servers across 178+ locations worldwide.
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.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, NordVPN is our winner with a rating of 9.4/10 compared to Mullvad VPN's 8.5/10. NordVPN stands out for its excellent security with double vpn and onion over vpn and 8,900+ servers across 178+ locations worldwide. While Mullvad VPN is more affordable, NordVPN's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, Mullvad VPN remains an excellent choice if no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number 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 NordVPN and Mullvad VPN offer money-back guarantees, so you can try before fully committing. No data migration is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NordVPN better than Mullvad VPN?
NordVPN scores higher in our testing (9.4/10 vs 8.5/10). NordVPN excels at excellent security with double vpn and onion over vpn, while Mullvad VPN is better for no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number.
Which is cheaper, NordVPN or Mullvad VPN?
Mullvad VPN is more affordable at $5.50/mo vs $12.99/mo. Mullvad VPN offers 58% savings.
NordVPN vs Mullvad VPN: which should I choose?
Choose NordVPN if you prioritize excellent security with double vpn and onion over vpn. Choose Mullvad VPN if you need no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number. Both are solid vpns options.
What's the main difference between NordVPN and Mullvad VPN?
The main difference is NordVPN offers industry-leading security with 8,900+ servers in 178+ locations, while Mullvad VPN focuses on privacy-first vpn with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing.