Mullvad vs Oyster VPN: Speed and Security Compared in 2025

Choosing a VPN can be overwhelming. There are so many options, and everyone claims to be the best.

Two VPNs that are often compared are Mullvad and Oyster. 

But which one is faster and more secure? That’s what we’re diving into today. 

In this comparison between Mullvad vs Oyster VPNs, we’ll explain their speed and security features in plain English. 

We’ll examine what makes each tick so you can decide which one fits you best. Let’s get started!

Overview

We’ve tested Mullvad and Oyster VPN’s speeds, security features, and overall performance.

This comparison is based on our hands-on experience and in-depth research, clearly showing each VPN’s strengths and weaknesses.

What is Mullvad?

Okay, let’s talk about Mullvad. This VPN is known for its focus on privacy.

It doesn’t keep logs, which is a big deal for many people.

It’s also pretty easy to use, even if you’re not a tech whiz.

Also, explore our favorite Mullvad alternatives…

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.

What is Oyster VPN?

Now, let’s check out Oyster VPN. It’s another option worth considering.

Oyster focuses on providing a user-friendly experience.

Oyster also has a good number of server locations.

If you value having many server choices, Oyster might be a good fit.

Also, explore our favorite OysterVPN alternatives…

Key Benefits

• Unlimited bandwidth: You can download and stream as much as you want without worrying about hitting a limit.
• Strong security: They use AES-256 encryption and have a strict no-logs policy.
• Split tunneling: This feature lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t, which can be handy for online banking.
• DNS leak protection: This helps prevent your actual location from being exposed.
• Growing server network: They currently have 150+ servers in 30+ countries.

Pricing

• 1-Month: $5.99/month
• 1-Year: $39.99/month
• Lifetime Access: $59.99

Feature Comparison

Now, let’s get into the specifics. We’ll compare Mullvad and Oyster VPN across key features, helping you determine which VPN best suits your online needs.

This comparison will cover everything from speed and security to usability and pricing.

1. Speed and Performance

• Mullvad VPN is known for consistently having the fastest VPN speeds. It is ideal for streaming and downloading and maintains good download speed even on distant VPN server locations.
• Oyster VPN: Offers decent speeds, but they can be less consistent than Mullvad. Download speed may vary depending on the VPN connection and VPN server load.

2. Security and Privacy

• Mullvad VPN: Prioritizes security with a strict no-logs policy and strong encryption—a very secure VPN option.
• Oyster VPN provides solid security with encryption and a generally good privacy policy. It offers multiple VPN protocol options, but could be more transparent about its logging practices.

3. Server Network

• Mullvad VPN: Has a smaller server network than other VPN providers.
• Oyster VPN: Offers a wider selection of VPN server locations globally.

4. Apps and Usability

• Mullvad VPN: Focuses on simplicity. The VPN app is easy to use but may lack some advanced features.
• Oyster VPN: Provides a user-friendly VPN app for various devices, making it easy for anyone to use a VPN.

5. Pricing and Value

• Mullvad VPN offers a single, straightforward pricing plan. There is no free trial, but the focus is on value.
• Oyster VPN offers tiered pricing plans, including some more affordable options. It may also provide a free trial or money-back guarantee.

6. Customer Support

• Mullvad VPN: Offers email support and detailed online resources.
• Oyster VPN: Provides customer support through various channels, but response times may vary.

7. Advanced Features

• Mullvad VPN: Focuses on core VPN functionality: no double VPN or other advanced features.
• Oyster VPN: Depending on the plan, it may offer some additional features.

What to Look For When Choosing a VPN?

Beyond the features we’ve discussed, here are some extra things to keep in mind:

• Jurisdiction: Where is the VPN provider based? Look into their local laws regarding data retention.
• Logging Policy Details: “No logs” can mean different things. Carefully read the policy to understand what (if anything) is recorded.
• Kill Switch: Does the VPN app have a kill switch? This crucial feature protects your IP address if the VPN connection drops.
• DNS Leak Protection: Ensure the VPN service prevents DNS leaks, which could expose your browsing activity.
• Independent Audits: Has the VPN provider undergone any independent security audits? This adds credibility.
• Payment Methods: Does the VPN provider accept privacy-focused payment options, like cryptocurrency?
• Simultaneous Connections: How many devices can you use a VPN on simultaneously?
• Streaming and Torrenting: If these activities are essential, confirm the VPN supports them.
• Customer Reviews: Check what other users are saying about their VPN experience.

Final Verdict

So, which one wins in the Mullvad vs Oyster VPN showdown?

For us, Mullvad is the best choice. Its rock-solid privacy, consistently fast speeds, and easy-to-use interface make it a top choice.

Oyster VPN has its strengths, especially its wider server selection and more affordable plans.

Mullvad’s dedication to privacy and performance puts it ahead. 

If you’re looking for one of the best VPNs, a premium VPN experience, and value privacy above all else, we recommend Mullvad.

We’ve tested many VPNs, including looking at ExpressVPN vs others, and Mullvad consistently impresses.

While there are free VPN options, they rarely offer the same level of security and performance. Trust our testing and choose wisely!

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 OysterVPN

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

• OysterVPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN generally offers faster speeds, a larger server network, and more advanced security features. OysterVPN is noted for its simplicity and lifetime subscription options.
• OysterVPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is known for its consistently fast speeds and user-friendly interface, often outperforming OysterVPN in speed and server reliability.
• OysterVPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN boasts a larger server network^. OysterVPN is recognized for its straightforward approach and lifetime deals.
• OysterVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark typically offers more features and unlimited connections. OysterVPN is valued for its simplicity and long-term subscription offers.
• OysterVPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN emphasizes strong security and privacy^. OysterVPN focuses on ease of use and affordability with lifetime plans.
• OysterVPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN often provides more consistent speeds and a stronger focus on privacy. OysterVPN is known for its simple interface and lifetime deals.
• OysterVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN excels at ad and tracker blocking. OysterVPN is a general-purpose VPN that focuses on simplicity.
• OysterVPN vs Virtual Shield: Both are relatively basic VPNs, though OysterVPN has a more established presence and offers lifetime subscriptions.
• OysterVPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is known for robust encryption and reliable connections. OysterVPN is recognized for its user-friendly nature and lifetime deals.
• OysterVPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN is a budget-friendly option. OysterVPN is known for its simple interface and lifetime subscription offers.
• OysterVPN vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN includes identity theft protection. OysterVPN focuses on providing a simple VPN service with long-term options.
• OysterVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost offers a larger server network and specialized servers, while OysterVPN offers more basic offerings.
• OysterVPN vs McAfee VPN: Both are often considered basic VPN options. OysterVPN offers lifetime subscriptions.
• OysterVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA offers a significantly larger server network and allows unlimited connections. OysterVPN is simpler with long-term deals.
• OysterVPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is a decentralized VPN. OysterVPN uses a traditional server network and focuses on simplicity and lifetime plans.
• OysterVPN vs Windscribe: Windscribe offers a free plan with a data limit. OysterVPN provides straightforward paid plans and lifetime options.

Frequently Asked Questions