NordVPN vs Private Internet Access
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Configurable VPN with unlimited devices.
The verdict
Both NordVPN and Private Internet Access are credible vpn tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
NordVPN — Fast, security-focused VPN.
Choose Private Internet Access if you'd rather have a lower starting price (from $2/mo). Configurable VPN with unlimited devices.
NordVPN vs Private Internet Access: side by side
| Dimension | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $3.49/mo | From $2/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Best for | Privacy Conscious, Travelers, Streamers | Budget Conscious, Power Users |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android | Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android |
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 |
NordVPN key facts
- Vendor
- Nord Security
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $3.49/mo
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Privacy Conscious, Travelers, Streamers
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2012
- Headquarters
- Panama / Lithuania
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 NordVPN better than Private Internet Access?
Neither is universally better — NordVPN 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 NordVPN or Private Internet Access cheaper?
Private Internet Access is the more affordable of the two to get started, at from $2/mo. NordVPN starts at from $3.49/mo; Private Internet Access starts at from $2/mo.
Can NordVPN 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.