Choosing the right VPN can feel like navigating a minefield.
Do you need blazing-fast speeds for streaming? Rock-solid privacy? Maybe a bit of both?
Two popular options often pop up in this debate: Mullvad and FastestVPN.
Both offer strong features, but which one comes out on top?
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between Mullvad vs FastestVPN, comparing their speed, security, pricing, and more.
Overview
We’ve rigorously tested Mullvad and FastestVPN across various categories for the most accurate comparison.
We’ve assessed their speeds using speed tests at different server locations, evaluated their security features, and explored their pricing structures and ease of use.
Take control of your privacy with Mullvad VPN! For just €5 per month, you can access over 800 servers in 40 countries.
Pricing: Mullvad VPN has a simple pricing structure: €5/month.
Key Features:
- Strong Encryption
- Pay-As-You-Go System
- No-Logs Policy
Want a blazing-fast VPN? FastestVPN protects your privacy with 550+ servers and a no-logs policy. Enjoy features like a NAT Firewall.
Pricing: 31-day money-back guarantee. Plan Starts at $0.83/month
Key Features:
- Fast speeds
- Unlimited bandwidth
- Multiple device connections
What is Mullvad?
Mullvad is all about privacy. No email address or phone number is needed to sign up.
You get a random account number instead. This keeps your identity completely hidden.
They have a strict no-logs policy, so they don’t track your online activity.
Their code is open source, which means anyone can check it.
This ensures transparency and security.
Also, explore our favorite Mullvad alternatives…
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.
Pros
Cons
What is FastestVPN?
FastestVPN aims to do exactly what its name suggests: provide a fast VPN service.
They have over 550 servers in 40+ countries, which gives you plenty of options for finding a fast connection.
They also offer many features for a very affordable price, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious users.
Also, explore our favorite FastestVPN alternatives…
Ready to experience the internet without limits? FastestVPN offers blazing speeds, robust security, & access to geo-restricted content.
Key Benefits
- Blazing-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming and downloading. No more buffering!
- Strong security features: They use AES 256-bit encryption and have a kill switch, so your data is safe and sound.
- P2P optimized servers: Enjoy fast and secure torrenting.
- NAT Firewall: Adds an extra layer of protection against malware.
- Affordable pricing: Great value for your money.
Pricing
- Exclusive Offer: $0.83/month
- 1 Month Plan: $5/month
- Lifetime: $40 for lifetime.
Pros
Cons
Feature Comparison
Let’s dive deeper and compare Mullvad and FastestVPN against each other on some of the most essential features to consider when choosing a VPN.
1. VPN Protocol
- Mullvad: Offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Bridge mode. Prioritizes strong security and privacy.
- FastestVPN Supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP, IPSec, and SSTP. It offers more protocol options, but some are less secure.
2. VPN Server Network
- Mullvad: Has a smaller server network with servers in 39 countries. Focuses on quality over quantity.
- FastestVPN: Offers a more extensive network with servers in 40+ countries. Provides more options for bypassing geo-restrictions.
3. VPN Speed and Download Speed
- Mullvad offers good speeds that are suitable for most needs. It is not always the fastest, but it is consistently reliable.
- FastestVPN: As the name suggests, they prioritize speed. It can be swift, but performance can fluctuate depending on the server. Great for gaming and streaming.
4. Security and Privacy
- Mullvad: A top choice for privacy. Strong no-logs policy, doesn’t require personal information, and uses robust encryption.
- FastestVPN is based in the Cayman Islands, which has more lenient privacy laws. It offers a kill switch and decent encryption but is less privacy-focused than Mullvad.
5. Streaming Service Compatibility
- Mullvad: Can unblock some streaming services, but not as reliably as FastestVPN. Not their primary focus.
- FastestVPN: Optimized for streaming and works with popular services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
6. VPN App and Ease of Use
- Mullvad: It has a simple VPN app for various operating systems, including Android and iOS.5 It is easy to use, even for beginners.
- FastestVPN: It also offers user-friendly VPN apps across different platforms. Provides more customization options than Mullvad.
7. Pricing and VPN Offers
- Mullvad: Simple pricing structure with one plan at €5 per month. No free version or free trial.
- FastestVPN is more affordable, especially with long-term plans. It offers a 15-day money-back guarantee. Although no free VPN exists, its long-term plans make it one of the best cheap VPN options.
What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?
- Your needs: Why do you need a VPN? Streaming? Privacy? Security?
- Logging policy: Does the VPN keep logs of your activity?
- Security features: What encryption protocols are used? Do they offer a kill switch?
- Server locations: Where are the VPN servers located?
- Speed: How fast is the VPN connection?
- Price: How much does the VPN cost? Are there any free trials or free versions available?
- Ease of use: How effortless is the VPN setup and use?
- Customer support: What kind of customer support does the VPN offer?
- Device compatibility: Does the VPN work on all your devices (Android, iOS, etc.)?
- Specific features: Do you need split tunneling, Onion over VPN, double VPN, or other advanced features?
Final Verdict
So, which VPN comes out on top? For us, it’s FastestVpn. Why?
Because it nails the most important thing: privacy.
FastestVpn gives you strong security, a strict no-logs policy, and a simple, easy-to-use experience. It’s a bit more expensive than Mullvad, but peace of mind is priceless.
Of course, the best VPN for you depends on your needs.
If you want the best value for a VPN, Mullvad is an excellent choice if you mainly use it for streaming or gaming.
But if you prioritize privacy and security above all else, FastestVpn is the clear winner.
No matter which VPN provider you choose, remember to do your research.
Compare VPN features, read reviews, and maybe even try a few with free trials or money-back guarantees.
Whether you need a VPN for Android, iOS, or any other device, finding the right VPN will significantly improve your 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 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 FastestVPN
We’ve explored alternatives to FastestVPN, so how does FastestVPN stack up directly against them?
- FastestVPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN generally offers faster speeds, a larger server network, and more advanced security features. FastestVPN is known for its affordability.
- FastestVPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is known for its consistently fast speeds and user-friendly interface, often outperforming FastestVPN in speed and server reliability.
- FastestVPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN boasts a larger server network. FastestVPN is recognized for its budget-friendly plans.
- FastestVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark typically offers more features and unlimited connections. FastestVPN focuses on being an affordable option.
- FastestVPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN emphasizes strong security and privacy. FastestVPN is known for its low-cost plans.
- FastestVPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN often provides more consistent speeds and a stronger focus on privacy. FastestVPN is positioned as a budget-friendly choice.
- FastestVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN excels in ad and tracker blocking. FastestVPN is a general-purpose VPN with an emphasis on affordability.
- FastestVPN vs Virtual Shield: Both are relatively basic VPNs, though FastestVPN may offer slightly better speeds.
- FastestVPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is known for robust encryption and reliable connections. FastestVPN focuses on being an affordable option.
- FastestVPN vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN includes identity theft protection. FastestVPN is a VPN provider known for its low prices.
- FastestVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost offers a larger server network and specialized servers. FastestVPN is marketed for its affordability.
- FastestVPN vs McAfee VPN: FastestVPN is a dedicated VPN service focused on cost. McAfee VPN is often bundled with antivirus software.
- FastestVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA offers a significantly larger server network and allows unlimited connections. FastestVPN is known for its budget-friendly plans.
- FastestVPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is a decentralized VPN. FastestVPN uses a traditional server network with a focus on affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FastestVPN better than NordVPN?
It depends on your needs. FastestVPN is more affordable, especially for long-term plans. NordVPN offers a more extensive server network and more advanced features. If you want a cheap VPN with decent speeds, FastestVPN is a good choice. If you need a feature-rich VPN with a more extensive server network, NordVPN might be better.
Can I use a free VPN instead of Mullvad or FastestVPN?
While free VPNs exist, they often have limitations like slower speeds, data caps, fewer server locations, and weaker security. Some might even log your data. Mullvad and FastestVPN are paid VPNs that offer better performance, security, and privacy.
How do I know if I need a VPN?
You might need a VPN to protect your privacy online, secure your connection on public Wi-Fi, access geo-restricted content like streaming services, bypass censorship, or improve your online gaming experience.
How can I test my VPN speed?
Many websites and apps offer a VPN speed test tool, which allows you to check your download and upload speeds while connected to a VPN server. However, remember that VPN speeds can vary depending on server location, distance, and internet connection.
What is WireGuard VPN, and why is it important?
WireGuard is a modern VPN protocol known for its speed, security, and simplicity. It’s faster and more efficient than older protocols like OpenVPN. Mullvad uses WireGuard as one of its primary protocols.
