Mullvad vs Bitdefender VPN: Which is Best for Speed in 2025?

by | Last updated May 23, 2025

Winner
mullvad logo
9.0
  • VPN
  • Browser Extension
  • Search
  • Encrypted DNS
  • Browser
  • Mullvad browser
  • Paid Plans from €5/month
Runner Up
bitdefender logo
7.0
  • Unified Platform
  • Simplify Threat Detection
  • Managed Detection
  • AI-Powered Cybersecurity
  • Up to 10 Devices
  • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
  • Paid Plans from $2.92/month
Mullvad vs Bitdefender VPN

Are you trying to decide between Mullvad vs Bitdefender VPN, but speed is your top priority?

You’re in the right place! Both of these VPNs are known for being fast, but one might be a better fit for your need for speed.

In this head-to-head matchup, we’ll examine their speeds, consider factors impacting performance, and help you choose the VPN to keep your internet speed up.

Let’s get started!

Overview

To give you the most accurate comparison, we’ve rigorously tested both Mullvad VPN and Bitdefender VPN.

Our tests focused on speed, security features, privacy policies, ease of use, and customer support, allowing us to provide a complete picture of each VPN’s offerings.

Mullvad VPN logo

Take control of your privacy with Mullvad VPN! You can access over 800 servers in 40 countries and a strict no-logs policy.

9out of 10

Pricing: Mullvad VPN has a simple pricing structure: €5/month.

Key Features:

  • DVPN
  • Pay-As-You-Go System
  • No-Logs Policy
bitdefender vpn logo

Ready to experience the internet with more freedom and security? Secure your connection and unlock a world of content today!

8out of 10

Pricing: 30-day money-back guarantee. Plan starts at $2.92/month

Key Features:

  • simultaneous connections
  • Fast speeds
  • User-friendly interface

What is Mullvad VPN?

Ever heard of Mullvad VPN? They’re all about privacy. No email address is needed to sign up.

It’s just an account number. They have apps for all your devices.

Plus, they are super transparent about their security.

They even publish their code for everyone to see! Want a VPN that’s serious about protecting your data?

Mullvad is a solid choice.

Also, explore our favorite Mullvad alternatives

Mullvad VPN logo
Mullvad
9.0

Take control of your privacy with Mullvad VPN! For just €5 per month, you can access over 800 servers in 40 countries and a strict no-logs policy.

Key Benefits

  • Strong focus on anonymity: No email address is required to sign up.
  • Open-source: Transparent and trustworthy.
  • Strong security: Uses WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols.
  • Accepts Bitcoin: For anonymous payments.

Pricing

Mullvad VPN has a simple pricing structure: €5/month. That’s it! No discounts for longer subscriptions.

Mullvad VPN Pricing

Pros

  • Truly anonymous browsing.
  • Strong encryption protocols.
  • Simple and affordable pricing.
  • Excellent for torrenting.
  • Based in privacy-focused Sweden.

Cons

  • Not many advanced features.
  • Can be slow sometimes.
  • No live chat support.
  • Not the best for streaming.
  • Smaller server network.

What is Bitdefender VPN?

Looking for a VPN that’s easy to use? Bitdefender VPN might be for you.

It’s built right into their antivirus software, which is super convenient. They have a vast network of servers.

And they allow unlimited simultaneous connections.

This means you can protect all your devices at once! Bitdefender is a good option for a simple VPN that “just works.”

Also, explore our favorite Bitdefender VPN alternatives

bitdefender vpn logo
Bitdefender VPN
8.0

Ready to experience the internet with more freedom and security? Secure your connection and unlock a world of content today!

Key Benefits

  • No-logs policy: They don’t keep track of your online activity.
  • Strong encryption: Uses top-notch AES-256 encryption.
  • Automatic kill switch: Protects your data if the VPN connection drops.
  • Unlimited bandwidth: No limits on how much data you use.
  • Easy to use: Simple interface for quick setup.

Pricing

  • 1 Year Plan: $2.92/for the first year.
  • 1 Month Plan: $6.99/for the first year.
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Pros

  • Very easy to use.
  • Affordable pricing options.
  • Good for essential privacy.
  • Works well with Bitdefender antivirus.
  • Doesn’t slow down your connection.

Cons

  • Fewer server locations.
  • Not the best for streaming.
  • Lacks advanced features.
  • Customer support can be slow.
  • There are no specialty servers.

Feature Comparison

Now that we’ve examined each VPN, let’s examine its features more deeply.

This head-to-head comparison will help you determine which VPN best suits your needs.

1. Security Protocols

  • Mullvad: Offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Bridge. WireGuard is the fastest and most modern protocol, making it an excellent choice for most users.
  • Bitdefender uses the Catapult Hydra protocol, a proprietary protocol developed by Hotspot Shield. It’s known for being fast but not open source, so we can’t independently verify its security.
Speed Test From Different Servers in Mullvad VPN

2. Kill Switch

  • Mullvad has a kill switch feature that blocks your internet connection if the VPN drops. This prevents your IP address from being exposed.
  • Bitdefender also includes a kill switch for added security, a must-have feature for any premium VPN.

3. DNS Leak Protection

  • Mullvad: Includes DNS leak protection to prevent your DNS requests from being leaked outside the VPN tunnel.
  • Bitdefender: Offers DNS leak protection to ensure your online activity remains private.

4. Encryption

  • Mullvad: Uses AES-256 encryption, the industry standard. This is the same level of encryption used by banks and governments.
  • Bitdefender also encrypts your internet traffic using AES-256 encryption, ensuring no one can snoop on your data.

5. Server Network

  • Mullvad: Has a smaller server network with servers in 39 countries.
  • Bitdefender offers a more extensive server network, with servers in 49 countries. This gives you more options for finding a fast and reliable connection.

6. Streaming Support

  • Mullvad: You can unblock some streaming services, but they are not as reliable as other VPNs, such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
  • Bitdefender works well with popular streaming services like Netflix, making it a good choice for watching geo-blocked content.

7. Device Compatibility

  • Mullvad: Has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
  • Bitdefender: Is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. You can also set it up on your router to protect all your devices simultaneously.
Navigating the Bitdefender VPN Interface

What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?

  • Speed: A fast VPN will ensure your internet speed isn’t significantly slowed. Look for a VPN that uses modern protocols like WireGuard.
  • Security: Choose a VPN with strong encryption (AES-256) and a kill switch.
  • Privacy: Ensure the VPN has a strict no-logs policy based in a privacy-friendly country.
  • Features: Consider DNS leak protection, split tunneling, and obfuscation.
  • Ease of Use: The VPN should be easy to set up and use, even for beginners.
  • Customer Support: Good customer support can be helpful if you have any problems.
  • Price: VPNs can cost from free to over $10 per month. Choose a VPN that fits your budget.
  • Free VPNs: Be cautious of free VPNs. They may have limitations, sell your data, or display ads.
  • Compare Bitdefender: If you’re considering Bitdefender Premium VPN, compare it with other premium VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN to see how it compares.
  • Bitdefender Premium Security: Bitdefender Premium Security includes a VPN, but it may not be the best choice if you’re primarily looking for a VPN.
  • VPN Connection: A VPN connection should be stable and reliable. Look for a VPN with an extensive server network.

Final Verdict

So, which VPN wins the speed race? It’s Mullvad! In our tests, Mullvad consistently delivered faster speeds.

This makes it an excellent choice for gaming, streaming, and downloading.

But don’t count out Bitdefender Premium VPN. It’s still a solid choice, especially if you want an easy-to-use VPN.

Plus, it offers excellent value with its unlimited simultaneous connections. 

If you need a VPN for your whole family, Bitdefender Premium Security (which includes the VPN) might be a good option when comparing Bitdefender.

Ultimately, the best VPN for you depends on your needs and priorities.

We’ve provided the facts. Now, it’s time to make your choice! Remember, always be wary of free VPNs.

They often come with hidden costs. A premium VPN like Mullvad or Bitdefender Premium VPN is worth the investment for a secure and private online experience.

More of Mullvad

We’ve explored alternatives to Mullvad, so how does Mullvad stack up directly against them?

  • Mullvad vs NordVPN: NordVPN generally offers faster speeds and a larger server network with more features, while Mullvad focuses on strong privacy and has a simpler, flat-rate pricing. NordVPN may be better for streaming, while Mullvad excels in anonymity.
  • Mullvad vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is known for its consistently fast speeds, user-friendly interface, and strong streaming capabilities. Mullvad prioritizes privacy with anonymous accounts, but its speeds might not be as consistently high, and it’s not as effective for unblocking streaming services.
  • Mullvad vs PureVPN: PureVPN boasts a larger server network, which can be advantageous for bypassing geo-restrictions. Mullvad is often favored for its stronger commitment to privacy and transparent practices.
  • Mullvad vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark is generally more affordable for long-term plans and allows unlimited connections. Mullvad stands out for its strong privacy focus and anonymous account creation. Surfshark tends to be faster in speed tests.
  • Mullvad vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN offers a balance of strong security and good speeds, with a more feature-rich interface. Mullvad emphasizes simplicity and anonymous use, sometimes at the cost of speed and additional features.
  • Mullvad vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN offers a decent free plan and good speeds, while Mullvad has a wider server network and a longer-standing reputation for privacy.
  • Mullvad vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN’s primary strength is its ad-blocking integration. Mullvad is a more comprehensive VPN focused on privacy and security.
  • Mullvad vs Virtual Shield: Mullvad offers more advanced security features and a stronger focus on privacy than the simpler Virtual Shield.
  • Mullvad vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is known for its robust encryption and reliable connections. Mullvad also prioritizes security, but with a different approach to user anonymity.
  • Mullvad vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN is a budget-friendly option. Mullvad, while having a simple pricing structure, isn’t the cheapest but focuses on privacy and security.
  • Mullvad vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN includes identity theft protection, while Mullvad’s core focus is on providing a private and secure VPN service.
  • Mullvad vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost is user-friendly with specialized servers for various activities. Mullvad prioritizes privacy and simplicity over a wide array of server types.
  • Mullvad vs McAfee VPN: McAfee VPN is a basic VPN often bundled with security software. Mullvad is a dedicated VPN service with a strong emphasis on privacy and security.
  • Mullvad vs Private Internet Access: PIA is known for its customization options and a large server network. Mullvad focuses on a no-frills approach with strong privacy.
  • Mullvad vs Mysterium: Mullvad uses a traditional server network focused on privacy and security, while Mysterium is a decentralized VPN with a different anonymity model and potentially less consistent speeds.

More of Bitdefender VPN

Here’s a quick comparison of Bitdefender VPN with alternatives:

  • Bitdefender VPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN: faster, larger network, more features. Bitdefender: user-friendly, bundled with antivirus.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is faster, better for streaming, and offers stronger privacy. Bitdefender is bundled and simpler.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN: larger server count. Bitdefender: simpler interface.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs Surfshark VPN: Surfshark is faster, has unlimited devices, has more features, and is better for streaming. Bitdefender is bundled.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN: stronger privacy. Bitdefender: user-friendly.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN: potentially faster, stronger privacy, free tier. Bitdefender: bundled.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN: ad-blocking focus. Bitdefender: general VPN.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs Virtual Shield: Bitdefender: more established, larger network. Virtual Shield: very basic.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN: robust encryption. Bitdefender: smaller network.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN: budget-friendly. Bitdefender: bundled.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN includes identity theft protection—Bitdefender: VPN only.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost: user-friendly, specialized servers. Bitdefender: simpler, smaller network.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs McAfee VPN: Bitdefender is: more feature-rich VPN. Both are often bundled with an antivirus.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA: larger network, unlimited devices. Bitdefender: user-friendly.
  • Bitdefender VPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium: decentralized. Bitdefender: traditional network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bitdefender Premium VPN worth it?

Yes, Bitdefender Premium VPN is a solid choice. It’s easy to use, has an extensive server network, and offers good speeds. Plus, it has unlimited simultaneous connections, which is hard to beat. If you compare it to other options, it’s a good value for the price.

Can I use a free VPN instead of Mullvad or Bitdefender?

While free VPNs are available, we don’t recommend them. Free VPNs often have limitations and may sell your data or display ads. For a truly secure and private online experience, a premium VPN subscription is worth the investment.

How do I choose the best VPN for me?

Consider your needs and priorities. Consider what you’ll use the VPN for (streaming, torrenting, etc.). Compare Bitdefender Premium and Mullvad VPN with other VPN providers like NordVPN, Proton VPN, and Surfshark. Consider factors like speed, security, privacy, features, and price. VPN reviews and comparison charts can help you make an informed decision.

Does Bitdefender VPN offer split tunneling?

No, currently, Bitdefender VPN does not offer split tunneling. This feature allows you to choose which apps and websites use the VPN connection and which use your regular internet connection. If split tunneling is essential to you, consider other VPNs that offer this feature.

What are the benefits of using a VPN?

A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in a location of your choice. This helps to keep your data safe when using public Wi-Fi, allows you to connect to servers in other countries to access restricted content, and can even improve your online gaming experience by reducing lag.

Fahim Joharder

Fahim Joharder

Author

A tech enthusiast and writer with a passion for AI and software innovations. He simplifies complex topics to help readers stay ahead in the digital world.

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