Choosing the right VPN can feel like navigating a minefield.
You want something secure and private, but all the tech jargon makes it hard to know where to start.
If you’re looking for a VPN that prioritizes your security, Mullvad and Malwarebytes are two popular options.
But which one comes out on top in 2025?
In this post, we’ll explain the key differences between Mullvad vs Malwarebytes VPN so you can decide which VPN is best for your needs.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, we’ve rigorously tested both Mullvad VPN and Malwarebytes VPN.
We’ve evaluated them on security features, server locations, speed, 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 online privacy without sacrificing speed? Malwarebytes VPN offers a simple, secure solution with 470+ servers in 45+ countries.
Pricing: 60-day money-back guarantee. Plan Starts at $44.99/month
Key Features:
- Always-on protection
- Automatic kill switch
- Ad blocker
What is Mullvad VPN?
Mullvad VPN is all about privacy. No accounts are needed;ded; buy a subscription, and you’re off.
They have variously payment methods, including even cash.
It’s like a secret agent tool for everyday internet use.
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 Malwarebytes VPN?
Malwarebytes is known for its security software.
But did you know they also have a VPN?
It’s designed to be easy to use, even for beginners.
With just a few clicks, you can get online protection.
Also, explore our favorite Malwarebytes alternatives…
Ready to experience a safer, more private internet? Malwarebytes VPN offers a simple solution to protect your online activity & unlock a world of content.
Key Benefits
- Fast Speeds: Optimized for performance with the WireGuard protocol.
- Strong Security: Features have a strict no-logs policy and an always-on kill switch.
- Easy to Use: Simple & intuitive apps for all your devices.
- Reliable Connections: Offers stable connections with minimal downtime.
Pricing
- Individual: $44.99/year
- Couple: $59.99/year
- Family: $94.99/year
Pros
Cons
Feature Comparison
Let’s dive deeper and compare Mullvad and Malwarebytes VPN head-to-head across seven key features.
This will help you see which VPN best fits your specific needs.
1. Security
- Mullvad VPN: Mullvad uses strong encryption protocols to protect your data. They offer WireGuard and OpenVPN, both known for their security and speed. Mullvad also has a strict no-logs policy, so your online activity is never tracked or stored.
- Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes VPN also uses WireGuard for its fast and secure connection. Its automatic kill switch blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing your IP address from being exposed. However, it does collect some connection logs, which might be a concern for privacy-conscious users.
2. Privacy
- Mullvad VPN: Mullvad is a true champion of privacy. It doesn’t require personal information to sign up, and you can even pay with cash to remain completely anonymous. It is based in Sweden, which has strong privacy laws.
- Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes is a US-based company, which means it is subject to data retention laws. While it has a no-logs policy for browsing activity, it does collect some connection data.
3. Speed
- Mullvad VPN: Mullvad offers impressive speeds thanks to its use of WireGuard and a wide range of server locations. You should have no problem streaming or downloading large files.
- Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes VPN provides decent speeds, although not as fast as Mullvad. You might experience some slowdown, especially when connecting to farther away servers.
4. Server Locations
- Mullvad VPN: Mullvad has servers in 39 countries, providing a good amount of choice for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content from different regions.
- Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes has a smaller network with servers in 30+ countries. This might limit your options if you need to connect to a specific location.
5. Streaming
- Mullvad VPN: While Mullvad can unblock some streaming services, this is not its strongest point. It doesn’t have dedicated servers optimized for streaming, so it might encounter issues.
- Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes VPN is not explicitly designed for streaming and might not consistently unblock popular platforms like Netflix.
6. Additional Features
- Mullvad VPN: Mullvad is simple and focuses on core VPN features. It offers split tunneling, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN connection. It also has port forwarding, which can be helpful for gaming and torrenting.
- Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes VPN includes an ad blocker to prevent annoying ads and pop-ups. This can be a nice addition for some users.
7. Ease of Use
- Mullvad VPN: Mullvad’s interface is simple, making it easy to use even for beginners. Its apps are available for various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. You can also set it up on a router to protect all your devices.
- Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes VPN also offers user-friendly apps with a clean design. It’s easy to install and connect to a server. The company provides apps for popular operating sys like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?
- Strong encryption: Look for VPNs that use modern protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN.
- No-logs policy: Ensure the VPN provider doesn’t track or store your online activity.
- Server locations: Consider the number and location of the VPN’s servers. More servers mean more options for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content.
- Speed: Choose a VPN with fast speeds to avoid buffering and slowdowns.
- Ease of use: Select a VPN with a user-friendly interface and device apps.
- Additional features: Some VPNs offer extra features, such as ad blockers, split tunneling, and dedicated IP addresses. Consider which features are essential to you.
- Price: VPNs come at various price points. Find one that fits your budget and offers the features you need.
- Customer support: Good customer support can be helpful if you encounter any issues.
- Device compatibility: Ensure the VPN is compatible with all your devices (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, etc.).
- Free trials and money-back guarantees: Look for VPNs that offer free trials or money-back guarantees so you can test them before committing.
Final Verdict
So, which VPN comes out on top? For us, it’s Mullvad. Why?
Because they are genuinely dedicated to your privacy.
They don’t keep any logs, offer strong encryption, and make using their virtual private network super easy. Plus, you can even pay with cash!
While Malwarebytes is a decent VPN service with some handy extras like an ad blocker and antivirus features, it doesn’t match Mullvad’s privacy commitment.
Mullvad is the best choice for a virtual private network that works and keeps your data safe.
Ultimately, the best VPN for you depends on your specific needs.
We encourage you to try Mullvad and Malwarebytes (they offer money-back guarantees!) and see which one you prefer.
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 Malwarebytes VPN
We’ve explored alternatives to Malwarebytes VPN, so how does Malwarebytes VPN stack up directly against them?
- Malwarebytes VPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN typically offers faster speeds, a larger server network, and more advanced features. Malwarebytes VPN is known for its simplicity and integration with the Malwarebytes security ecosystem.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is known for its consistently fast speeds and user-friendly interface, often outperforming Malwarebytes VPN in speed and server locations.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN boasts a larger server network and more features. Malwarebytes VPN focuses on basic VPN functionality.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark typically offers more features, unlimited connections, and often better value than Malwarebytes VPN.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN emphasizes strong security and privacy. Malwarebytes VPN provides basic VPN services.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN often provides more consistent speeds and a stronger focus on privacy. Malwarebytes VPN is more limited in features.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN excels in ad and tracker blocking. Malwarebytes VPN is a general-purpose VPN.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs Virtual Shield: Malwarebytes VPN offers a more established brand and a slightly larger server network compared to the very basic Virtual Shield.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is known for its robust encryption and reliable connections. Malwarebytes VPN focuses on simplicity.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN is a budget-friendly option that may offer comparable or better speeds than Malwarebytes VPN.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN includes identity theft protection. Malwarebytes VPN focuses on basic VPN services.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost offers a larger server network and specialized servers, while Malwarebytes VPN is more streamlined.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs McAfee VPN: Both are often bundled with antivirus software, but Malwarebytes VPN is generally considered more private.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA offers a significantly larger server network and allows unlimited connections. Malwarebytes VPN is more basic.
- Malwarebytes VPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is a decentralized VPN. Malwarebytes VPN uses a traditional server network focused on simplicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malwarebytes Privacy VPN the same as Malwarebytes antivirus?
No, they are separate products. Malwarebytes Privacy VPN encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address, while Malwarebytes antivirus protects your device from malware. However, they can be used together for comprehensive online security.
Does Mullvad VPN work with Netflix?
While Mullvad can unblock some streaming services, it’s not explicitly optimized for Netflix. You might be able to access some Netflix libraries, but it’s not guaranteed.
Can I use a VPN on my router?
Yes, Mullvad and Malwarebytes VPN can be set up on a router. This allows you to protect all the devices connected to your network with the VPN.
What is DNS leak protection?
DNS leak protection prevents your DNS requests from being exposed outside the VPN tunnel, ensuring your browsing activity remains private. Both Mullvad and Malwarebytes VPN offer DNS leak protection.
Why do I need a VPN?
VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, making it difficult for third parties to track your online activity. They protect your data when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often vulnerable to hackers. Additionally, VPNs allow you to access content that may be blocked in your region. By masking your IP address, VPNs make it harder for others to identify you online.
