Mullvad vs Private Internet Access

Mullvad vs PIA: Privacy and Security

Privacy is one of Mullvad’s biggest strengths. Instead of requiring an email address during signup, Mullvad generates a numbered account. This reduces the amount of personal information associated with the service. The company also accepts privacy-friendly payment methods, including cash and cryptocurrency.

Mullvad supports WireGuard and includes security features such as a kill switch, traffic obfuscation, and multihop connections. Its apps and infrastructure have also undergone independent security assessments, including audits conducted in 2026.

PIA also takes transparency seriously. Its apps are open source, and its no-logs claims have been independently reviewed by Deloitte. PIA uses WireGuard and OpenVPN and provides features such as a kill switch and split tunneling.

Both are strong privacy options, but Mullvad has an advantage if minimizing account information is your top priority.

Servers and Performance

The two providers also differ in their approach to server infrastructure. PIA operates a broad VPN network and gives users considerable flexibility when selecting locations and configuring connections.

This makes PIA particularly attractive if you regularly switch between locations or want more control over how your VPN connection works. Mullvad takes a more streamlined approach, with a smaller network and a stronger emphasis on carefully managed infrastructure.

Actual VPN speeds can vary depending on your location, server choice, protocol, internet connection, and network congestion. Both support WireGuard, which is designed to provide strong performance without sacrificing modern encryption.

For users who prioritize server choice and configurability, PIA has the advantage, while Mullvad keeps the overall experience simpler.

Mullvad vs Private Internet Access: Features

Mullvad provides the core privacy tools most users need without filling its apps with unnecessary extras. Its features include a kill switch, split tunneling on supported platforms, multihop, and several tools designed to make VPN traffic more difficult to identify or block.

PIA offers a more configurable experience. Users can adjust VPN settings, use split tunneling and an advanced kill switch, and access port forwarding on supported servers. This additional control can appeal to advanced users who prefer to customize how their VPN behaves.

Device limits are another important difference. Mullvad supports up to five devices per account, while PIA allows unlimited simultaneous device connections.

For a single user with a few devices, Mullvad’s limit may not matter. For families or households with many phones, computers, and other devices, PIA is considerably more flexible.

Mullvad vs PIA Pricing

Mullvad has one of the simplest pricing structures among VPN providers. It charges €5 per month, and the monthly rate remains the same regardless of whether you pay for one month or add more time to your account. There is no need to commit to a multi-year subscription to get the advertised rate.

PIA takes the opposite approach. Its monthly subscription costs more, but longer plans reduce the effective monthly price substantially. Current offers can change, so users should check the latest pricing before subscribing. PIA also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee for eligible new subscriptions.

Mullvad is better if you want predictable month-to-month pricing without a long commitment. PIA provides better value if you are comfortable paying for a longer subscription upfront.

Which VPN Should You Choose?

Choose Mullvad if privacy and account anonymity are your main concerns. Its numbered account system, minimal signup requirements, straightforward pricing, open-source software, and independent security assessments make it particularly appealing to privacy-focused users.

Choose Private Internet Access if you want greater flexibility. Unlimited device connections make it easier to protect a large number of devices, while its configuration options and port forwarding give advanced users more control over their connections.

Mullvad is the stronger choice for privacy purists who value minimal data collection, anonymous account creation, and straightforward pricing. Private Internet Access is better for users who want unlimited simultaneous connections, more configuration options, port forwarding, and cheaper long-term plans. Both offer open-source apps and independently reviewed privacy practices, but they serve different priorities: choose Mullvad for simplicity and privacy-first design, or PIA for flexibility and overall long-term value.