⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: PIA starts at $2.03/mo (2-year plan) vs Avast VPN at $49.99/first year (bundled with antivirus)
- Best for: PIA for privacy-focused users who want unlimited connections, Avast VPN for casual users already using Avast antivirus
- Key difference: PIA has 35,000 servers and a Deloitte-audited no-logs policy. Avast VPN has 700 servers and no independent audit.
- Our pick: Private Internet Access for most users — better privacy, more servers, and lower long-term cost
Private Internet Access and Avast VPN target very different users.
PIA is a dedicated VPN with 35,000 servers worldwide.
Avast SecureLine VPN is an add-on to the Avast antivirus suite.
That difference shapes everything from pricing to privacy.
This comparison breaks down both tools so you can pick the right one.
Whether you want a top-tier VPN or just need to secure one device, this guide covers it.
Overview
This Private Internet Access vs Avast VPN comparison covers pricing, features, and privacy protections.
We also look at server networks, speed, and ease of use.
Our sources include published specs, official documentation, and user reviews.
We reviewed speed tests, stress tests, and browsing data from multiple sources.
By the end, you’ll know which VPN service fits your needs.
What is Private Internet Access?
Private Internet Access is a dedicated VPN provider with a large server network.
PIA VPN covers 91 countries with over 35,000 VPN servers.
It offers unlimited simultaneous connections on all your devices.
PIA’s apps are fully open-source, so anyone can inspect the code.
Private Internet Access
PIA offers 35,000 servers across 91 countries with unlimited connections. The no-logs policy has been verified by Deloitte through independent audits.
Private Internet Access Pricing
PIA VPN has three pricing tiers. The long-term plan is where you save the most.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Years + 4 Months | $2.03/month | Long-term savings |
| 6 Months | $7.50/month | Medium commitment |
| 1 Month | $11.99/month | Short-term testing |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: No free trial, but there is a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Money-back guarantee: Full refund within 30 days, no questions asked.
📌 Note: PIA does not raise prices at renewal. What you pay at signup is what you pay going forward. All plans include every feature with no paywalled extras.
⚠️ Warning: The monthly plan at $11.99 is above the industry average. If you plan to use PIA long-term, the 2-year deal at $2.03/month is a much better value.
Key Benefits of Private Internet Access
Here’s what makes PIA worth considering:
- Massive Server Network: PIA’s servers span 91 countries with 35,000 nodes. US users get coverage in all 50 states.
- Unlimited Connections: Connect every device you own at the same time. Most VPN providers cap this at 5 or 10.
- Audited No-Logs Policy: Deloitte has independently verified that PIA does not store browsing history, DNS queries, or IP addresses.
- Open-Source Apps: All PIA apps are open-source. Anyone can review the source code for hidden trackers or backdoors.
- Built-in Ad Blocker: The MACE feature blocks ads and trackers at the DNS level. No extra browser extensions needed.
- Advanced Split Tunneling: Route specific apps or IP addresses outside the VPN tunnel. This is helpful for online gaming and banking sites.
- Multi-Hop Connections: Route your internet traffic through two VPN servers for extra anonymity.
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
- 35,000 servers across 91 countries with US coverage in all 50 states
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on all devices
- Deloitte-audited strict no-logs policy with quarterly transparency reports
- Open-source apps for full code transparency
- No price increases at renewal
❌ Cons
- Average download speed loss of 49% on some servers
- Inconsistent streaming unblocking with some services
- Monthly plan at $11.99 is above the industry average
What is Avast VPN?
Avast SecureLine VPN is a virtual private network from the Avast antivirus company.
It focuses on simple, beginner-friendly online privacy for Avast products users.
The VPN app is available on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Android TV.
Avast VPN connects up to 10 devices at the same time.
Avast VPN
Avast SecureLine VPN offers a 60-day free trial with full access. It supports 10 devices and includes Smart VPN mode for automatic connections.
Avast VPN Pricing
Avast bundles its VPN with antivirus products. Here are the available plans.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free Antivirus | Free | Basic virus protection only |
| Premium Security | $49.99/first yr | Antivirus with added features |
| Ultimate | $49.99/first yr | Full suite including VPN |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: Yes, a 60-day free trial with full VPN access. Payment information is required upfront.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day refund policy, but the process involves multiple steps.
📌 Note: The 60-day free trial is longer than what most VPN providers offer. You get full access to all servers and features during the trial period.
⚠️ Warning: Avast SecureLine VPN renewal prices are much higher than the introductory rate. The service auto-renews at full price unless you cancel before the billing date.
Key Benefits of Avast VPN
Here’s what makes Avast SecureLine VPN worth considering:
- Generous Free Trial: The 60-day trial gives you full access to every feature. You can cancel anytime before it ends.
- Smart VPN Mode: Set rules for when the VPN should automatically connect. It works based on the network you join.
- Simple Interface: The app is easy to navigate. Even first-time VPN users can connect in seconds.
- Multiple Platforms: Supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Android TV from a single subscription.
- Streaming Access: Works with Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video on streaming optimized servers.
- Public Wi-Fi Protection: Encrypts your internet connection on unsecured networks to block snooping.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer installed Avast SecureLine VPN and explored the app across multiple platforms. Here’s what stood out:
Avast VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 60-day free trial with full access to all features
- Smart VPN mode auto-connects based on network rules
- Simple and beginner-friendly app design
- Available on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Android TV
❌ Cons
- Only 700 servers across 34 countries
- No independent audit to verify no-logs claims
- Parent company fined $16.5M by the FTC for selling user data
- Renewal prices more than double the introductory rate
Feature Comparison
Now let’s compare Private Internet Access vs Avast VPN across 9 key categories. Each section shows how both VPN services handle a specific feature.
| Feature | Private Internet Access | Avast VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.03/month | $49.99/first yr |
| Free Trial | ❌ | ✅ 60 days |
| Server Count | 35,000+ | ~700 |
| Countries | 91 | 34 |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | 10 |
| No-Logs Audit | ✅ Deloitte | ❌ |
| Open-Source Apps | ✅ | ❌ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Kill Switch | ✅ (Regular + Advanced) | ✅ |
| Best For | Privacy-focused power users | Casual browsing and Avast users |
1. Server Network
Private Internet Access: PIA has over 35,000 VPN servers spread across 91 countries. That includes coverage in all 50 US states, which is rare among VPN providers. More server locations mean less crowding and better connection speeds during peak hours.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN has around 700 servers in 34 countries. That’s a small network compared to most VPN services. Fewer Avast SecureLine VPN servers can lead to slower download speeds during busy times, especially on distant server locations.
2. Privacy and Security
Private Internet Access: PIA has a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte through independent audits. The VPN does not store browsing history, DNS queries, connection data, or your real IP address. PIA also publishes quarterly transparency reports showing how it handles legal requests.
Avast VPN: Avast claims a no-logs policy but has not completed any independent audit to back it up. The service records timestamps and data volumes for up to 35 days. Avast’s parent company was fined $16.5 million by the FTC in 2024 for selling user data through a subsidiary called Jumpshot.
⚠️ Warning: If user privacy is your top priority, the lack of independent audits and the FTC fine are major concerns for Avast SecureLine VPN.
3. Encryption and VPN Protocols
Private Internet Access: PIA offers AES-256 encryption over the OpenVPN protocol and ChaCha20 using WireGuard. Users can customize the encryption level and choose between protocols based on their needs. This flexibility is helpful for power users who want to balance speed and security.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and its own Mimic protocol. Mimic is designed to disguise VPN traffic as regular browsing data. However, there are fewer customization options compared to PIA’s approach.
4. Speed and Performance
Private Internet Access: PIA’s average download speed loss is around 49%, which varies by server location and protocol. Speeds are generally fine for streaming services and web browsing. Performance on Windows using OpenVPN tends to be better than WireGuard in some tests.
Avast VPN: Avast delivers decent connection speeds on nearby servers. However, speed drops are significant when connecting to distant locations. The smaller server network means fewer options for avoiding congested nodes.
5. Streaming and Unblocking
Private Internet Access: PIA has streaming optimized servers that can access Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. However, unblocking streaming content is not always consistent. Some streaming services like BBC iPlayer may not work every time.
Avast VPN: Avast can access Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video through its streaming optimized servers. But results with BBC iPlayer and Hulu have been mixed according to user reports. The limited number of servers makes it harder to find a working connection.
6. Kill Switch and Leak Protection
Private Internet Access: PIA provides two types of kill switches. The regular kill switch activates when the VPN connection drops. The advanced kill switch blocks all internet traffic unless PIA is connected. Both help prevent DNS leaks and keep your actual IP address hidden.
Avast VPN: Avast includes a kill switch that disconnects your internet connection if the VPN drops. It also has DNS leak protection and WebRTC leak protection built in. These features are standard but fewer in number compared to PIA’s dual kill switch setup.
7. Split Tunneling
Private Internet Access: PIA’s split tunneling lets you exclude specific apps and IP addresses from the VPN tunnel. This means you can route banking sites through your regular connection while keeping browser traffic encrypted. PIA also supports automation rules that trigger connections based on your network.
Avast VPN: Avast SecureLine VPN offers basic split tunneling on supported platforms. You can choose which apps go through the VPN and which use your direct internet connection. However, it lacks the IP address exclusion and automation features found in PIA.
8. Device Support and Connections
Private Internet Access: PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections. Install it on your phone, laptop, tablet, router, and every other device you own. PIA also offers a dedicated command line app for Linux and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
Avast VPN: Avast allows 10 devices on one subscription. It works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Android TV. There are no browser extensions or router support, which limits coverage for smart home devices.
9. Pricing and Cost
| Plan Type | Private Internet Access | Avast VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $11.99/month | No monthly option |
| 6-Month / 1-Year | $7.50/month (6-mo) | $49.99/first yr |
| Long-Term | $2.03/month (2-yr) | $49.99/first yr (Ultimate) |
| Free Trial | ❌ | ✅ 60 days |
| Money-Back | 30 days | 30 days |
Private Internet Access: PIA is one of the cheapest VPN options for long-term plans at $2.03/month. The price stays the same at renewal, which is rare. The monthly rate of $11.99 is slightly above average, but the long-term deals make PIA an affordable VPN choice.
Avast VPN: Avast’s first-year pricing looks competitive at $49.99. But renewal prices jump significantly — often doubling the original cost. There is no monthly plan available, which limits flexibility for users who don’t want a long commitment.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest long-term price | PIA | $2.03/mo with no renewal hike |
| Privacy with audited proof | PIA | Deloitte-verified no-logs policy |
| Free trial before paying | Avast VPN | 60-day full-access trial |
| Unlimited device connections | PIA | No cap on simultaneous devices |
| Beginner-friendly VPN app | Avast VPN | Clean interface, easy setup |
| Largest server network | PIA | 35,000 servers in 91 countries |
💰 Your Budget
PIA costs $2.03/month on the 2-year plan with no price hikes at renewal. Avast charges $49.99 for the first year, but renewal prices can more than double.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
PIA works on more devices and offers browser extensions plus router support. Avast VPN is limited to desktop and mobile devices with no browser add-ons.
🔒 Your Privacy Needs
If keeping your data private is the main goal, PIA’s audited no-logs policy is hard to beat. Avast’s FTC fine and lack of audits raise trust concerns.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Avast VPN is simpler and designed for beginners who want one-click protection. PIA offers more settings and customization for VPN users who want control.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Avast wins here with a 60-day free trial that gives full access. PIA has no free trial but offers a 30-day money-back guarantee instead.
🛟 Support Options
PIA offers 24/7 live chat and email support with a detailed knowledge base. Avast provides phone and form-based support, but some users report slow response times.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Private Internet Access to Avast VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 60-day free trial to test the service before paying
- Smart VPN mode that auto-connects based on network rules
- Bundled antivirus protection with the Ultimate plan
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections (down to 10 devices)
- Deloitte-audited no-logs policy and open-source code
- 35,000 servers in 91 countries (down to 700 in 34)
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your PIA subscription through the account dashboard
- Download and install Avast SecureLine VPN from avast.com
- Start the 60-day free trial and test the service
🔄 Switching from Avast VPN to Private Internet Access?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited device connections with no cap
- Verified no-logs policy with Deloitte audit and transparency reports
- 50x more servers across 91 countries
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 60-day free trial (PIA only offers a 30-day refund)
- Smart VPN auto-connect mode
- Bundled antivirus integration with Avast products
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Avast subscription through avast.com or customer support
- Sign up for PIA at privateinternetaccess.com
- Download the PIA app and connect to your preferred server
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users and small households. We tested Private Internet Access and tested PIA across core features, but didn’t evaluate enterprise-level setups, custom VPN router configurations, or specialized use cases like torrenting performance across every server. Speed tests vary by location and time of day, so your results may differ. If you need a VPN specifically for a business network, your priorities will look different from what we’ve covered here.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Private Internet Access |
| 🔒 Privacy & Security | Private Internet Access |
| 🌐 Server Network | Private Internet Access |
| ⚡ Speed | Tie |
| 👶 Ease of Use | Avast VPN |
| 🔌 Device Support | Private Internet Access |
| 🆓 Free Trial | Avast VPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Private Internet Access |
🏆 WINNER: Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Privacy-focused users, families with many devices, long-term VPN subscribers
Private Internet Access and Avast VPN serve different types of users. PIA is a dedicated VPN service built for privacy and flexibility. Avast SecureLine VPN is a simple add-on for users already using Avast antivirus.
Avast VPN works well for casual browsing and public Wi-Fi protection. The 60-day trial is genuinely useful for first-time VPN users who want to test before buying.
But if you want a verified no-logs policy, unlimited connections, and a massive server network, PIA is the stronger pick. It may not be the flashiest option, but it checks every box you’d expect from a top-tier VPN. The long-term pricing at $2.03/month with no renewal increases makes it a clear value winner too.
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 pricing ($2.03 vs ~$3.39/mo), unlimited connections, open-source apps
NordVPN wins on: Faster average speeds, larger country coverage, specialty servers for double VPN and Onion over VPN
Private Internet Access vs ExpressVPN
PIA wins on: Much cheaper pricing, unlimited device connections, open-source code transparency
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster download speeds, better streaming reliability, wider router compatibility
Private Internet Access vs Proton VPN
PIA wins on: More servers (35,000 vs ~6,500), lower paid pricing, US coverage in all 50 states
Proton VPN wins on: Free plan with no data cap, Swiss jurisdiction, bundled privacy suite with email and storage
Private Internet Access vs SurfsharkVPN
PIA wins on: Larger server count, Deloitte-audited no-logs, longer track record with transparency reports
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Better streaming unblocking, CleanWeb ad blocker, GPS spoofing on Android
More of Avast VPN Compared
Here’s how Avast VPN stacks up against other VPN providers:
Avast VPN wins on: 60-day free trial, bundled antivirus option, simpler interface for beginners
NordVPN wins on: 6,000+ servers, audited no-logs, faster speeds, specialty server types
Avast VPN vs CyberGhost
Avast VPN wins on: Longer free trial period, Smart VPN auto-connect rules, works alongside Avast antivirus products
CyberGhost wins on: 11,000+ servers, dedicated streaming and torrenting profiles, often ranked among the best VPNs for value
Avast VPN vs McAfee VPN
Avast VPN wins on: 60-day trial vs no standalone free trial, dedicated VPN app, more server locations
McAfee VPN wins on: Included free with McAfee antivirus plans, wider device support, automatic Wi-Fi protection
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Private Internet Access safe?
Yes. PIA uses AES-256 encryption and has a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte. The apps are open-source, so the code can be reviewed by anyone.
Does Avast VPN actually work?
Avast SecureLine VPN works for basic browsing and streaming. It encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address. However, it has a smaller server network than most dedicated VPN services.
How much does PIA VPN cost per month?
The monthly plan costs $11.99. The 6-month plan is $7.50/month. The best deal is the 2-year plan at $2.03/month, and prices don’t increase at renewal.
Is Avast SecureLine VPN safe to use?
The VPN itself uses standard encryption. However, the service lacks independent audits and its parent company was fined for past privacy violations. Consider this before trusting it with sensitive data.
Can I use PIA VPN for free?
PIA does not have a free plan or free trial. It offers a 30-day money-back guarantee instead. Avast SecureLine VPN has a 60-day free trial if you want to test a VPN without paying first.
How many servers does Private Internet Access have?
PIA covers 91 countries with over 35,000 servers, including virtual servers in some regions. PIA supports connections from the Middle East, Asia, and other areas where many VPNs struggle. The Private Internet Access VPN also includes DNS servers to prevent DNS requests from leaking.
Does Avast SecureLine VPN have torrenting servers?
Avast previously offered torrenting servers, but removed them in late 2025. If you need a good VPN for torrenting, PIA is a better pick since it offers unlimited bandwidth and port forwarding on all servers. For more security, PIA also blocks ISP throttling across its network.
Is PIA a quality VPN for everyday use?
PIA is a quality VPN with a private internet access review rating of 4.2/5. PIA supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and even has a command line app. You can download PIA from the Apple App Store and Google Play. The PIA app also works as a Windows app and Android app on mobile devices.
Should I use Avast SecureLine VPN on public networks?
You can use Avast SecureLine VPN on any public network to encrypt your data. The Smart VPN feature lets the VPN automatically connect when it detects a public Wi-Fi hotspot. The Avast SecureLine VPN review scores show it handles basic online activities well, though it lacks advanced security features found in other VPN apps.
Are there Private Internet Access deals available?
Private Internet Access makes its best deals available on the 2-year plan. At $2.03/month, it is a cheap VPN compared to most VPN providers. The service includes incoming connections via port forwarding, which is useful for online gaming and hosting. Unlike many VPNs, PIA offers a fast connection with no speed caps on any plan. Check the current Private Internet Access deals on their website for seasonal discounts.
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