⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Private Internet Access starts at $2.03/mo vs CyberGhost at $2.03/mo — nearly identical on long-term plans
- Best for: PIA for privacy-focused power users who want open-source transparency; CyberGhost for casual streamers who want labeled streaming servers
- Key difference: PIA offers unlimited simultaneous connections and open-source apps; CyberGhost caps at seven devices but has streaming-optimized servers for 15+ Netflix libraries
- Our pick: Private Internet Access for most users — stronger privacy credentials and unlimited device support give it the edge
Two of the cheapest VPN providers in the vpn industry share the same price tag.
Private Internet Access and CyberGhost both cost $2.03/month on long-term plans.
But they target very different VPN users with very different priorities.
PIA bets everything on privacy and open-source transparency.
CyberGhost focuses on unblocking streaming sites worldwide.
Both are affordable VPN options and qualify as a cheap VPN choice for budget buyers.
This Private Internet Access vs CyberGhost comparison helps you find the right virtual private network.
Overview
This Private Internet Access vs Cyberghost comparison covers pricing, privacy features, and streaming access.
We also look at server networks, connection speeds, and device support.
Our sources include published specs, official documentation, and verified user reviews.
Our writers also spent hands-on time with each VPN service.
Those observations appear in the “What Our Team Noticed” sections below.
What is Private Internet Access?
Private Internet Access is a VPN service built for privacy-first users.
It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your actual ip address from snooping.
PIA VPN runs on open-source code that anyone can inspect for security features.
The service supports unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account.
PIA covers all your devices — desktop apps, mobile devices, and browser extensions.
You can download the PIA app from the Apple App Store or Google Play in a few seconds.
Private Internet Access
Open-source VPN with unlimited device connections. Audited no-logs policy verified by Deloitte. Starts at $2.03/month on the long-term plan.
Private Internet Access Pricing
PIA keeps pricing simple with one plan tier. Only the subscription length changes the cost.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Years + 4 Months | $2.03/month | Long-term privacy users |
| 6 Months | $7.50/month | Mid-length commitments |
| 1 Month | $11.99/month | Short-term or testing |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: 7-day free trial on iOS and Android apps only. No free trial on desktop.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. No questions asked.
📌 Note: PIA does not increase subscription prices upon renewal. This is rare among VPN providers and means your rate stays the same year after year.
⚠️ Warning: The mobile free trial auto-renews. Turn off auto-renewal within 24 hours of your trial ending to avoid charges.
Key Benefits of Private Internet Access
Here’s what makes PIA VPN worth considering:
- Unlimited Connections: Connect every device you own on a single account. No caps, no extra fees.
- Open-Source Transparency: All PIA apps are open-source. Anyone can review the code for security flaws.
- Verified No-Logs Policy: Deloitte has audited PIA’s no-logs claims multiple times. PIA publishes quarterly transparency reports.
- MACE Ad Blocker: Built-in DNS-level blocker removes ads, trackers, and malicious domains. Works across all your devices.
- Advanced Split Tunneling: Route specific apps and IP addresses outside the VPN tunnel. PIA also lets you filter dns requests separately. Ideal for banking or local services while keeping browser traffic encrypted.
- Multi-Hop Connections: Route internet traffic through two VPN servers for extra anonymity. Good for privacy-sensitive tasks and keeping your data private from ISP throttling.
- US Server Coverage: PIA has servers in all 50 US states. This helps with accessing region-locked US content and reduces latency for online gaming.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Private Internet Access and spent several days exploring the platform. Here’s what stood out:
Private Internet Access Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on one account
- Open-source apps allow public code inspection
- No-logs policy independently audited by Deloitte
- 35,000 servers across 91 countries
- No price increases on renewal — rate stays the same
❌ Cons
- Based in the US — a Five Eyes alliance country
- Average download speed loss of 49% is below average
- Streaming unblocking can be inconsistent for some platforms
- No free desktop trial — only mobile apps get 7 days free
What is CyberGhost?
CyberGhost is a VPN service designed for streaming and casual browsing.
It has streaming optimized servers labeled for specific streaming platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
The CyberGhost app lets you pick a server by the service you want to watch.
CyberGhost is headquartered in Romania, outside the 14-Eyes surveillance alliance.
It allows up to seven devices to connect at the same time per account.
CyberGhost has a huge server network with global servers spanning 100 countries.
CyberGhost
Streaming-focused VPN with 9,200+ servers in 100 countries. Labeled servers for Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. 45-day money-back guarantee on long-term plans.
CyberGhost Pricing
CyberGhost also uses a single-tier system. Every plan includes all features.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Years + 4 Months | $2.03/month | Budget-conscious long-term users |
| 6 Months | $6.99/month | Seasonal streaming needs |
| 1 Month | $12.99/month | Short trips or quick testing |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: 24-hour trial on Windows and macOS. 3-day trial on Android. 7-day trial on iOS.
Money-back guarantee: 45-day money-back guarantee on 6-month and 2-year plans. 14-day guarantee on the monthly plan.
📌 Note: CyberGhost’s 45-day money-back guarantee is the longest in the mainstream VPN market. You can also add a dedicated IP address for an extra $5/month.
⚠️ Warning: CyberGhost’s renewal prices increase significantly after the first term. Check the renewal rate before committing to a long-term plan.
Key Benefits of CyberGhost
Here’s what makes CyberGhost VPN worth considering:
- Streaming-Optimized Servers: CyberGhost labels servers by platform. Pick a Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, or Hulu server directly from the app.
- Massive Server Network: Over 9,200 servers across 100 countries. This is one of the largest networks among VPN providers.
- NoSpy Servers: CyberGhost operates its own NoSpy servers in Romania. These servers are owned and managed entirely by CyberGhost for extra security.
- RAM-Only Infrastructure: All CyberGhost servers run on ram only servers. Data is wiped every time a server reboots. This is a key security feature that protects your online traffic.
- Smart Rules Automation: Set rules to automatically connect when you join a Wi-Fi network. The windows app and ios app both support this. You can also launch the VPN when opening specific desktop and mobile apps.
- 45-Day Refund Window: CyberGhost gives you 15 extra days compared to most VPN services. Test streaming, speeds, and privacy before you commit.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for CyberGhost and used it for daily browsing and streaming tasks. Here’s what stood out:
CyberGhost Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Streaming-optimized servers labeled by platform and region
- 9,200+ servers across 100 countries — among the largest networks
- 45-day money-back guarantee on longer plans
- Romania headquarters — outside 14-Eyes surveillance alliance
- NoSpy servers owned and operated directly by CyberGhost
❌ Cons
- Limited to seven simultaneous device connections
- Owned by Kape Technologies — raises privacy concerns for some users
- Renewal prices increase significantly after the first term
- Knowledge base articles lack depth for less experienced users
Feature Comparison
Let’s compare Private Internet Access vs CyberGhost across 10 key features. Each section breaks down how both VPN services handle a specific area.
| Feature | Private Internet Access | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.03/month | $2.03/month |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | 7 devices |
| Server Count | 35,000 in 91 countries | 9,200+ in 100 countries |
| Open-Source Apps | ✅ | ❌ |
| Streaming Servers | Basic | ✅ Labeled by platform |
| Kill Switch | ✅ Regular + Advanced | ✅ Automatic |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ Apps + IPs | ✅ Windows + Android |
| No-Logs Audit | ✅ Deloitte | ✅ Deloitte |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 45 days |
| Best For | Privacy and customization | Streaming and ease of use |
1. Server Network
Private Internet Access: How many servers does PIA have? PIA has 35,000 servers spread across 91 countries. That raw server count is massive, and Private Internet Access makes it easy to find the right server location. PIA also covers all 50 US states with dedicated server locations, including virtual servers in some regions. This helps with accessing region-specific US content and reducing latency for American users.
CyberGhost: CyberGhost has over 9,200 servers in 100 countries, covering 126 server locations. While the total server count is lower, CyberGhost reaches more countries and has a huge server network of global servers. CyberGhost also uses virtual locations CyberGhost deploys in some regions to expand coverage without physical hardware.
2. Privacy and Security
Private Internet Access: PIA uses AES 256-bit encryption over the OpenVPN protocol and ChaCha20 with WireGuard. These vpn protocols provide different encryption level options. PIA has a strict no logs policy audited by Deloitte multiple times. PIA publishes quarterly transparency reports and keeps all VPN apps open-source for public inspection. The PIA app does not collect browsing history, connection data, dns queries, or identifying data. PIA also protects against dns leaks to ensure your actual ip address stays hidden.
CyberGhost: CyberGhost also uses AES 256-bit encryption and has a no-logs policy audited by Deloitte in 2022 and January 2024. CyberGhost runs ram only servers that wipe all data on reboot, and these servers also protect against dns leaks. The company is based in Romania, outside the 14-Eyes alliance. CyberGhost also uses virtual locations in some regions. However, CyberGhost is owned by Kape Technologies, which also owns PIA and ExpressVPN — a concern for some who question CyberGhost’s privacy claims.
3. Streaming and Unblocking
Private Internet Access: PIA has streaming-optimized servers that can unblock services like Netflix and Disney Plus. However, PIA’s streaming performance can be inconsistent. Some platforms detect and block PIA connections. PIA doesn’t label servers by streaming platform, so you may need to try a few servers to find one that works.
CyberGhost: Streaming is CyberGhost’s biggest strength. The CyberGhost app includes a dedicated Streaming tab with servers labeled for Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and more. CyberGhost has servers optimized for over 15 Netflix libraries. These streaming servers are tested and updated regularly to keep working with each platform.
4. Connection Speeds
Private Internet Access: PIA’s average download speed loss is around 49% based on speed tests. That makes it slower than many other vpn providers. Connection speeds vary based on VPN server location and VPN protocol used. PIA’s performance on Windows using the OpenVPN protocol tends to be better than on WireGuard. Download speeds are generally fine for casual browsing and standard streaming, and PIA helps reduce isp throttling on your internet connection.
CyberGhost: CyberGhost’s average connection speed loss is around 30%. Its WireGuard protocol has been tested at speeds up to 760 Mbps. Speeds to nearby servers are fast enough for HD streaming without buffering. Distant servers can show up to 60% speed loss. CyberGhost’s windows app handles connection speed well on local servers.
5. Kill Switch
Private Internet Access: PIA provides two types of kill switches on Windows and macOS. The regular kill switch blocks internet traffic when the VPN connection drops. The advanced kill switch blocks all traffic outside the VPN tunnel at all times — even before you connect. This prevents any data from leaking if the VPN fails.
CyberGhost: CyberGhost has an automatic kill switch that cuts internet access if the VPN connection drops. It works across desktop and mobile apps. The kill switch is on by default in the CyberGhost app, so you don’t need to enable it manually.
6. Split Tunneling
Private Internet Access: PIA’s split tunneling feature lets you exclude specific apps and IP addresses from the VPN connection. You can also filter DNS requests separately. This level of control is unusual for a VPN at this price point. It’s especially useful for online gaming or accessing local banking sites while keeping browser traffic encrypted.
CyberGhost: CyberGhost offers split tunneling on Windows and Android apps only. You can choose which apps use the VPN and which bypass it. The feature is missing on macOS and iOS, which limits its usefulness if you use Apple devices.
7. Device Compatibility
Private Internet Access: PIA supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and has browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can protect all your devices with one account. PIA also has a command line app for Linux power users and supports VPN router setups for smart tvs and other devices. PIA offers port forwarding for incoming connections, which is useful for torrenting and hosting.
CyberGhost: CyberGhost works on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and some smart TVs. You can install the CyberGhost app on as many devices as you want, but only seven can connect at the same time — up to seven devices simultaneously. CyberGhost’s mobile apps and the mac app both have full feature support. CyberGhost’s apps are easy to set up across platforms. CyberGhost’s client connects quickly on most networks. CyberGhost also offers a smart DNS feature for mobile devices and smart TV setups that don’t support VPN apps natively.
8. Ad and Tracker Blocking
Private Internet Access: PIA includes MACE, a DNS-level ad and tracker blocker. MACE blocks ads, trackers, and malicious domains before they load. It works across all connected devices without needing a separate app or browser extension.
CyberGhost: CyberGhost has a built-in content blocker that blocks domains associated with ads, trackers, and malware. It works similarly to PIA’s MACE. CyberGhost’s malicious URL filter adds an extra layer of protection against phishing sites. CyberGhost also bundles a security suite and security updater for Windows users who want antivirus alongside their VPN.
9. Dedicated IP Options
Private Internet Access: PIA offers a dedicated IP address as an add-on. A dedicated IP gives you a unique address that only you use. This reduces CAPTCHAs, avoids blocklisting, and makes online banking smoother. PIA also provides data breach monitoring through its Identity Guard feature.
CyberGhost: CyberGhost also offers dedicated IPs for an extra $5/month. The feature provides a unique IP address for more stable access to banking and business services. CyberGhost’s dedicated IPs are available in several countries.
10. Pricing and Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | Private Internet Access | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $11.99/month | $12.99/month |
| 6 Months | $7.50/month | $6.99/month |
| Long-Term (2yr+) | $2.03/month | $2.03/month |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 45 days |
Private Internet Access: PIA’s biggest pricing advantage is no price increase on renewal. Most VPN providers raise the rate after your first term, but PIA keeps it the same. The monthly plan is $1 cheaper than CyberGhost. The long-term plan matches CyberGhost at $2.03/month. PIA’s pricing structure has no hidden costs or paywalled features.
CyberGhost: CyberGhost’s 6-month plan is slightly cheaper at $6.99 vs PIA’s $7.50. The long-term plan matches PIA at $2.03/month. CyberGhost’s 45-day money-back guarantee gives you more time to test the service. However, CyberGhost’s renewal price jumps significantly after the first term — a hidden cost to watch out for.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy-first VPN | PIA | Open-source + audited no-logs |
| Streaming unblocking | CyberGhost | Labeled servers for 15+ platforms |
| Unlimited devices | PIA | No connection cap |
| Longest refund window | CyberGhost | 45-day money-back guarantee |
| Best US coverage | PIA | Servers in all 50 US states |
| Beginner-friendly | CyberGhost | One-click streaming servers |
💰 Your Budget
Both VPN services cost $2.03/month on long-term plans. PIA wins on value because it doesn’t raise prices on renewal. CyberGhost’s renewal rate is significantly higher.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
PIA works on more platforms and has browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. CyberGhost has native apps for Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV — better for smart TV users.
📺 Your Streaming Habits
CyberGhost is the clear pick for streaming. Its labeled servers take the guesswork out of finding one that works. PIA can unblock some streaming services, but results vary.
🎓 Your Experience Level
CyberGhost is easier for beginners. The app sorts servers by activity — streaming, gaming, or torrenting. PIA gives more control but the settings can feel overwhelming for new VPN users.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
CyberGhost offers free trials on all platforms — 24 hours on desktop, 3 days on Android, and 7 days on iOS. PIA only has a 7-day trial on mobile devices.
🛟 Support Options
Both offer 24/7 live chat. CyberGhost’s live chat is reported to be quick and helpful. PIA has a more detailed knowledge base with guides and community forums.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Private Internet Access to CyberGhost?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Labeled streaming servers for Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more
- NoSpy servers owned by CyberGhost in Romania
- 45-day money-back guarantee instead of 30 days
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Unlimited device connections — CyberGhost caps at seven
- Open-source app transparency
- Advanced split tunneling with IP address filtering
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your PIA subscription and request a refund if within 30 days
- Sign up for CyberGhost and download the app on your devices
- Uninstall PIA and connect to CyberGhost — no data migration needed
🔄 Switching from CyberGhost to Private Internet Access?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections for all your devices
- Open-source VPN apps with public code review
- No price increase on subscription renewal
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Streaming-optimized servers labeled by platform
- 45-day money-back guarantee — PIA offers 30 days
- Smart Rules automation for auto-connecting on specific networks
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel CyberGhost and request a refund if within 45 days
- Create a PIA account and install the app on all your devices
- Remove CyberGhost and connect through PIA — settings don’t transfer
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users and small households. We didn’t evaluate enterprise-level deployments or corporate VPN tunnel configurations. Both VPN services are owned by Kape Technologies, and we didn’t investigate shared infrastructure between them. Our observations are based on the May 2026 versions of both VPN apps — features and speeds may change with updates. If you’re managing a business network or need a VPN for regulatory compliance, your needs may differ from what we’ve covered here.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Tie — both $2.03/mo long-term |
| 🔒 Privacy & Security | Private Internet Access |
| 📺 Streaming | CyberGhost |
| ⚡ Speed | CyberGhost |
| 📱 Device Support | Private Internet Access |
| 👶 Ease of Use | CyberGhost |
| 🔌 Advanced Features | Private Internet Access |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Private Internet Access |
🏆 WINNER: Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access wins 4 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Privacy-focused users, multi-device households, power users who want open-source transparency
Private Internet Access and CyberGhost serve different types of VPN users. Our final verdict: CyberGhost is a quality VPN for streaming, but PIA is the better choice if you care about user privacy, want unlimited device support, and prefer open-source VPN apps you can trust. Our Private Internet Access review found that the VPN’s no-logs policy has been verified multiple times by Deloitte. We tested PIA and tested Private Internet Access across multiple use cases. The app gives you deep control over your VPN connection with advanced split tunneling and multi-hop capabilities. Check out current Private Internet Access deals and CyberGhost VPN deals for the latest pricing.
CyberGhost is the better pick if streaming is your main reason for using a VPN. This CyberGhost VPN review found that its labeled servers for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video take the guesswork out of unblocking streaming content. CyberGhost also supports a random port option and connection logs are never stored. The 45 day money back guarantee — a full day money back guarantee of 45 days — gives you more time to test the service. Read our full CyberGhost review for more details.
For most VPN users who want solid privacy, unlimited bandwidth, and broad device coverage, PIA delivers more value at the same price. PIA supports dns servers customization and tested PIA connections show no dns leaks. Both are a top tier VPN option, but PIA edges ahead as the overall winner.
More of Private Internet Access Compared
Here’s how Private Internet Access stacks up against other VPN providers:
Private Internet Access vs NordVPN
PIA wins on: Lower long-term price ($2.03 vs $3.39/mo), unlimited connections, open-source apps
NordVPN wins on: Faster connection speeds, Panama jurisdiction outside Five Eyes, Threat Protection Pro with malware scanning
Private Internet Access vs ExpressVPN
PIA wins on: Much cheaper pricing ($2.03 vs ~$6.67/mo), unlimited device connections, open-source code transparency
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster overall speeds, better streaming unblocking, British Virgin Islands jurisdiction
Private Internet Access vs Surfshark
PIA wins on: More total servers (35,000 vs 3,200+), open-source apps, advanced split tunneling with IP filtering
Surfshark wins on: Better streaming access, Netherlands jurisdiction, CleanWeb ad blocker with cookie pop-up removal
Private Internet Access vs Proton VPN
PIA wins on: Lower pricing on all plans, more total servers, unlimited connections included by default
Proton VPN wins on: Swiss jurisdiction with strong privacy laws, free plan with no data cap, Secure Core multi-hop routing
More of CyberGhost Compared
Here’s how CyberGhost stacks up against other VPN providers:
CyberGhost wins on: Lower price on long-term plans ($2.03 vs $3.39/mo), more server locations (100 countries vs 60+), 45-day refund window
NordVPN wins on: Faster speeds with less drop-off, better privacy reputation with Panama base, Dark Web Monitor and Threat Protection
CyberGhost wins on: Much cheaper long-term pricing, more servers and country coverage, labeled streaming servers by platform
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster raw speeds, more consistent streaming access, Lightway protocol with quicker connections
CyberGhost vs Surfshark
CyberGhost wins on: More total servers (9,200+ vs 3,200+), dedicated streaming and gaming servers, NoSpy owned servers
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited simultaneous connections, faster speeds on long-distance servers, bundled antivirus with Surfshark One
CyberGhost vs PureVPN
CyberGhost wins on: Audited no-logs policy by Deloitte, larger server network, better streaming server labeling system
PureVPN wins on: Lower monthly price, port forwarding included, dedicated IP at lower cost
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Private Internet Access safe?
Yes. The VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption and has a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte. All apps are open-source, so anyone can check the code. PIA also runs RAM-only servers and publishes quarterly transparency reports.
Can CyberGhost VPN be trusted?
CyberGhost has a no-logs policy audited by Deloitte. It is based in Romania, which has strong privacy laws. The VPN runs on RAM-only servers that wipe data on reboot. However, it is owned by Kape Technologies, which some privacy advocates view with concern.
How much does PIA VPN cost per month?
The monthly plan is $11.99. The 6-month plan drops to $7.50/month. The best value is the 2-year plan at $2.03/month. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
What are the disadvantages of CyberGhost VPN?
The main drawbacks are a seven-device connection limit, significant renewal price increases, and ownership by Kape Technologies. Long-distance server speeds can also drop by up to 60%. The knowledge base could use more depth for new users.
Does Netflix block PIA VPN?
Netflix detects some PIA servers. The VPN has streaming-optimized servers that can access Netflix, but results vary by server and region. CyberGhost is more reliable for Netflix because it has labeled servers tested specifically for each library.
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