Mullvad VPN vs Private Internet Access
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Privacy-first VPN with flat pricing.
Configurable VPN with unlimited devices.
The verdict
Both Mullvad VPN and Private Internet Access are credible vpn tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Mullvad VPN if you want a higher overall rating (4.6/5). Privacy-first VPN with flat pricing.
Choose Private Internet Access if you'd rather have a lower starting price (from $2/mo). Configurable VPN with unlimited devices.
Mullvad VPN vs Private Internet Access: side by side
| Dimension | Mullvad VPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $5.50/mo | From $2/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Best for | Privacy Conscious | Budget Conscious, Power Users |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android | Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android |
| Rating | 4.6/5Winner | 4.3/5 |
Mullvad VPN key facts
- Vendor
- Mullvad
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $5.50/mo
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Privacy Conscious
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2009
- Headquarters
- Gothenburg, Sweden
Private Internet Access key facts
- Vendor
- PIA
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $2/mo
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Budget Conscious, Power Users
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 2010
- Headquarters
- Denver, CO, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Mullvad VPN better than Private Internet Access?
Neither is universally better — Mullvad VPN edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Mullvad VPN or Private Internet Access cheaper?
Private Internet Access is the more affordable of the two to get started, at from $2/mo. Mullvad VPN starts at from $5.50/mo; Private Internet Access starts at from $2/mo.
Can Mullvad VPN replace Private Internet Access?
Yes for most teams — both are vpn tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.