ProtonVPN vs Mullvad VPN
ProtonVPN 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. ProtonVPN edges ahead with a 8.8/10 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
ProtonVPN beats Mullvad VPN for most users. It scores 8.8/10 vs 8.5/10 and based in privacy-friendly switzerland. Choose Mullvad VPN if you need no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number.
ProtonVPN
WinnerSwiss-based VPN with 15,000+ servers and free tier
Starting from
$2.49/mo
Mullvad VPN
Privacy-first VPN with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing
Starting from
$4.75/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $2.49/mo | $4.75/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Performance | ||
| Servers | 15,000+ | 700+ |
| Countries | 120+ | 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
ProtonVPN
- Based in privacy-friendly Switzerland
- 15,000+ servers in 120+ countries
- Free tier with no data limits
- Open-source apps
- Secure Core multi-hop servers
- VPN Accelerator for faster speeds
- Stealth protocol bypasses VPN blocks
- Free tier limited to 5 countries
- Free tier randomly assigns servers
- Prorated refunds only
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: ProtonVPN offers streaming support while Mullvad VPN provides ram only servers. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
ProtonVPN
Choose ProtonVPN if you prioritize based in privacy-friendly switzerland, want to start with a free tier, or value 15,000+ servers in 120+ countries.
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, ProtonVPN is our winner with a rating of 8.8/10 compared to Mullvad VPN's 8.5/10. ProtonVPN stands out for its based in privacy-friendly switzerland and 15,000+ servers in 120+ countries. ProtonVPN also offers better value at its price point. 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 ProtonVPN and Mullvad VPN offer money-back guarantees, so you can try before fully committing. No data migration is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ProtonVPN better than Mullvad VPN?
ProtonVPN scores higher in our testing (8.8/10 vs 8.5/10). ProtonVPN excels at based in privacy-friendly switzerland, while Mullvad VPN is better for no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number.
Which is cheaper, ProtonVPN or Mullvad VPN?
ProtonVPN is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $5.50/mo. ProtonVPN offers 100% savings.
ProtonVPN vs Mullvad VPN: which should I choose?
Choose ProtonVPN if you prioritize based in privacy-friendly switzerland. 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 ProtonVPN and Mullvad VPN?
The main difference is ProtonVPN offers swiss-based vpn with 15,000+ servers and free tier, while Mullvad VPN focuses on privacy-first vpn with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing.