Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
NordVPN9.0
Several independent no-logs assessments have been published over the years.
Privacy & audits
30% weight
Mullvad9.5
No email needed to sign up, anonymous payment options and published audits.
NordVPN9.0
Own WireGuard-based protocol, kill switch, double VPN and threat-blocking options.
Security features
20% weight
Mullvad9.0
WireGuard, multi-hop, DAITA traffic obfuscation and open-source apps.
NordVPN7.5
Good first-term pricing, but renewal rates are noticeably higher.
Value for money
20% weight
Mullvad7.5
Flat, honest pricing, though no discount for paying upfront.
NordVPN8.5
Native apps on all major platforms, including a Linux client.
Apps & ease of use
15% weight
Mullvad7.5
Clean but basic apps; fewer convenience features than mainstream rivals.
NordVPN7.5
Ten simultaneous devices covers most homes but is not unlimited.
Devices & flexibility
15% weight
Mullvad6.0
Five simultaneous devices is lower than most competitors.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | NordVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | No |
| Money-back window | 30 days | Not published |
| Simultaneous devices | 10 | 5 |
| Independent audit published | Yes | Yes |
| Company jurisdiction | Panama | Sweden |
| Main platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
Verdict
Which should you pick?
Choose NordVPN if…
You want something best for people who want one capable VPN for every device.
- + Repeated independent no-logs audits
- + Strong security extras such as double VPN
- + Apps for every major platform
Choose Mullvad if…
You want something best for people who want minimal personal data handed over.
- + Account-number sign-up with no email
- + Same price every month
- + Open-source apps
Checked 1 Nov 2026.
Questions
NordVPN vs Mullvad: quick answers
Is NordVPN better than Mullvad?
NordVPN leads Mullvad by 0.2 points overall (8.4 vs 8.2). NordVPN scores higher on apps & ease of use, devices & flexibility. Mullvad scores higher on privacy & audits.
Who should choose Mullvad over NordVPN?
Mullvad is best for people who want minimal personal data handed over. NordVPN is best for people who want one capable VPN for every device.
How were NordVPN and Mullvad scored?
Both were scored on the same 5 weighted criteria for VPN services, using public information such as published plans and terms. We do not lab-test products.