Private Internet Access vs Mullvad
Private Internet Access leads Mullvad by 0.1 points overall (8.3 vs 8.2).
8.3/10, Very good
8.2/10, Very good
Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
Private Internet Access8.0
Independent no-logs audit and transparency reports, though based in the US.
Privacy & audits
30% weight
Mullvad9.5
No email needed to sign up, anonymous payment options and published audits.
Private Internet Access8.0
WireGuard, kill switch and granular encryption settings.
Security features
20% weight
Mullvad9.0
WireGuard, multi-hop, DAITA traffic obfuscation and open-source apps.
Private Internet Access8.5
Low long-term pricing with unlimited devices.
Value for money
20% weight
Mullvad7.5
Flat, honest pricing, though no discount for paying upfront.
Private Internet Access7.5
Open-source apps on all platforms; many settings can feel technical.
Apps & ease of use
15% weight
Mullvad7.5
Clean but basic apps; fewer convenience features than mainstream rivals.
Private Internet Access9.5
Unlimited simultaneous connections.
Devices & flexibility
15% weight
Mullvad6.0
Five simultaneous devices is lower than most competitors.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | Private Internet Access | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | No |
| Money-back window | 30 days | Not published |
| Simultaneous devices | Unlimited | 5 |
| Independent audit published | Yes | Yes |
| Company jurisdiction | United States | Sweden |
| Main platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
Verdict
Which should you pick?
Choose Private Internet Access if…
You want something best for tinkerers who want fine control over settings.
- + Unlimited simultaneous devices
- + Open-source apps
- + Highly configurable
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
Private Internet Access vs Mullvad: quick answers
Is Private Internet Access better than Mullvad?
Private Internet Access leads Mullvad by 0.1 points overall (8.3 vs 8.2). Private Internet Access scores higher on value for money, devices & flexibility. Mullvad scores higher on privacy & audits, security features.
Who should choose Mullvad over Private Internet Access?
Mullvad is best for people who want minimal personal data handed over. Private Internet Access is best for tinkerers who want fine control over settings.
How were Private Internet Access 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.