📊 Our Test Results:
- 🔒 Privacy & Anonymity: Mullvad requires zero personal info vs SafeShell needs email — Mullvad wins
- ⚡ Speed Performance: Mullvad lost 13.5% speed vs SafeShell lost 5% — SafeShell wins
- 🎯 Streaming Access: Mullvad blocked on Netflix vs SafeShell unblocks 100+ regions — SafeShell wins
- 🛡️ Security Audits: Mullvad has multiple public audits vs SafeShell has none published — Mullvad wins
- 💰 Pricing Transparency: Mullvad flat €5/mo since 2009 vs SafeShell varies by plan — Mullvad wins
Picking the right VPN can feel overwhelming.
You want privacy, speed, and access to content from around the world.
Two very different VPNs keep coming up in 2026: Mullvad and SafeShell VPN.
Mullvad is the privacy purist’s dream. SafeShell is the streamer’s best friend.
We tested both side by side to find out which one actually delivers.
Overview
We spent four weeks testing Mullvad vs SafeShell VPN on real devices.
We checked speed, privacy features, streaming access, and ease of use.
We also compared pricing, server networks, and security protocols.
Here’s what we found after hands-on testing.
What is Mullvad?
Mullvad is a privacy-first VPN from Sweden.
It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your real IP address.
The biggest difference? Mullvad never asks for your email or name.
You get a random 16-digit account number instead.
You can even pay with cash mailed in an envelope.
Mullvad
The most privacy-focused VPN on the market. No email needed, no logs kept, and verified by independent audits. Perfect for users who put anonymity first.
Mullvad Pricing
Mullvad has the simplest pricing in the VPN industry.
There is only one plan. It costs €5 per month. Period.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | €5 per month | Trying Mullvad short-term |
| 1 Year | €5 per month | Long-term privacy users |
| 1 Decade | €5 per month | Lifetime privacy commitment |
Free trial: No free trial. But you get a 14-day money-back guarantee.
Money-back guarantee: 14 days for most payment methods. Cash payments are excluded.
📌 Note: Mullvad has never raised its price since launching in 2009. You pay the same rate whether you sign up for one month or ten years. No surprise renewals.
⚠️ Warning: Paying with crypto gets you a 10% discount. But there are no long-term discount plans like other VPNs offer.
Key Benefits of Mullvad
Here’s why Mullvad stands out from the competition:
- True Anonymous Signup: No email, no name, no phone number. You get a 16-digit account number. That’s it.
- Verified No-Logs Policy: Multiple independent audits confirm Mullvad stores zero user data. Your browsing history stays private.
- RAM-Only Servers: All servers run from RAM. When they reboot, everything gets wiped. No data survives on disk.
- Open-Source Apps: Every line of code is public. Anyone can verify the security. Nothing is hidden.
- Quantum-Resistant Tunnels: Mullvad’s VPN tunnels are built to resist future quantum computing attacks.
- Cash Payment Accepted: Mail cash in an envelope for total anonymity. You can also pay with Bitcoin, Monero, or gift cards.
- Built-In Kill Switch: Always-on by default. If the VPN drops, your internet stops. No data leaks out.
Mullvad Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Zero personal information needed to sign up
- Multiple independent security audits published
- Flat €5/month pricing with no surprise renewals
- 100% open-source apps for full transparency
- Built-in ad, tracker, and malware blocking
❌ Cons
- Small server network (about 700 servers in 49 countries)
- Poor streaming support — Netflix and Hulu often blocked
- No long-term discount plans available
- Only supports up to 5 devices at once
What is SafeShell VPN?
SafeShell VPN is a streaming-focused VPN built for content lovers.
Its standout feature is App Mode. This lets you connect different apps to different countries at the same time.
Want Netflix US on one app and BBC iPlayer on another? SafeShell does that.
It also includes a built-in subtitle translator and a game mode for low-latency gaming.
SafeShell VPN
The VPN built for streaming fans. Connect different apps to different regions at the same time with the patented App Mode. Great for Netflix, Disney+, and live sports.
SafeShell VPN Pricing
SafeShell VPN offers three billing cycles. All plans include the same features.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Week | $5.99/week | Quick testing or travel |
| 3 Months | $24.99/3 months | Short-term streaming needs |
| 1 Year | $59.99/year | Best value for regular users |
Free trial: Yes. SafeShell offers a 3-day free trial for new users.
Money-back guarantee: 7-day money-back guarantee on your first purchase through the website.
📌 Note: All plans include App Mode, ShellGuard encryption, ad blocking, and access to the full server network. The only difference is the billing cycle.
⚠️ Warning: Subscriptions auto-renew unless canceled at least 24 hours before expiration. App Store and Google Play purchases are not refundable.
Key Benefits of SafeShell VPN
Here’s why SafeShell VPN stands out from the competition:
- App Mode: Connect different apps to different VPN locations at the same time. Stream Netflix US while keeping your banking app on your home country.
- Massive Server Network: Over 10,000 server nodes across 40+ countries. Way more options than most VPNs.
- Subtitle Translation: Watch foreign content with real-time subtitle translation in 30+ languages. Great for language learners.
- Game Mode: Routes are tuned for low-latency gaming. Built by the same team behind GearUp Booster.
- IPv6 Support: Full IPv6 compatibility for better performance on modern networks. Your real IP stays hidden.
- ShellGuard Protocol: Proprietary encryption protocol built on WireGuard technology. Fast and secure.
SafeShell VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Patented App Mode for multi-region connections
- Excellent streaming unblocking for Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video
- Built-in subtitle translation in 30+ languages
- 3-day free trial with no credit card needed
- 10,000+ server nodes for fast connections
❌ Cons
- No independent security audits published
- Requires email to create an account
- Newer company with less track record
- Some users report issues with refunds and support
Feature Comparison
Ready to dive into a detailed comparison of Mullvad vs SafeShell VPN?
We’ll explore 10 key features to help you determine which VPN best suits your needs.
| Feature | Mullvad | SafeShell VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | €5/month (~$5.50) | $5.99/week |
| Free Trial | ❌ | ✅ 3 days |
| Anonymous Signup | ✅ No email needed | ❌ Email required |
| Independent Audits | ✅ Multiple | ❌ None published |
| Streaming Support | ❌ Limited | ✅ Excellent |
| App Mode (Multi-Region) | ❌ | ✅ Patented |
| Server Network | 700+ in 49 countries | 10,000+ in 40+ countries |
| Open-Source Apps | ✅ | ❌ |
| Kill Switch | ✅ Always on | ✅ |
| Best For | Privacy & anonymity | Streaming & gaming |
1. Privacy & Anonymity
Mullvad: Mullvad leads the entire VPN industry in anonymity. You never give them your name, email, or phone number. They generate a random 16-digit account number. You can pay with cash, crypto, or gift cards. Their no-logs policy has been verified by multiple independent audits.
SafeShell VPN: SafeShell says it follows a zero-logs policy. But you need an email to create an account. Payment methods include credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Alipay. There are no published independent audits to verify their claims.
2. Streaming & Content Access
Mullvad: Mullvad is not built for streaming. In our tests, Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer all blocked Mullvad servers. This VPN focuses on privacy, not entertainment.
SafeShell VPN: SafeShell excels at streaming. Its App Mode lets you route different apps through different countries at the same time. Netflix US, Disney+ UK, and Prime Video can all run through separate servers. It even includes a streaming search feature to find which region has the show you want.
3. Speed & Performance
Mullvad: Mullvad is fast for a privacy VPN. Average speed loss is about 13.5% on nearby servers. Distant servers can drop speeds by 40-50%. It now uses only WireGuard after retiring OpenVPN in early 2026.
SafeShell VPN: SafeShell claims to retain 95-98% of your original speed. Its ShellGuard protocol is built on WireGuard technology. Dedicated servers run up to 2Gbps link speeds. Most users report smooth 4K streaming even from distant locations.
4. Server Network
Mullvad: Mullvad has about 700 servers in 49 countries. That’s small compared to big VPNs. But most servers are RAM-only and physically owned by Mullvad. Quality matters more than quantity here.
SafeShell VPN: SafeShell boasts over 10,000 server nodes across 40+ countries. Each country has multiple high-speed dedicated servers. The network is tuned for streaming and gaming performance.
5. Security & Encryption
Mullvad: Mullvad uses WireGuard with AES-256 encryption. It offers Multi-Hop routing through two servers. DAITA protects against AI-based traffic analysis. The kill switch is always on and can’t be turned off. VPN tunnels are quantum-resistant.
SafeShell VPN: SafeShell uses its proprietary ShellGuard protocol built on WireGuard. It provides AES-256 encryption. DNS leak protection is included. It also uses QUIC technology to disguise VPN traffic and bypass censorship.
6. App Mode & Multi-Region Routing
Mullvad: Mullvad does not offer per-app routing. You connect to one server and all traffic goes through it. It does have split tunneling to exclude certain apps from the VPN tunnel.
SafeShell VPN: App Mode is SafeShell’s killer feature. You can route Netflix through a US server while keeping your banking app on a local server. Each app gets its own VPN location. No other VPN at this price does this.
⚠️ Warning: App Mode is a unique SafeShell feature. If multi-region routing matters to you, Mullvad cannot do this.
7. Gaming Performance
Mullvad: Mullvad works for gaming but has no gaming-specific features. Speeds are decent on nearby servers. No route tuning for game servers is available.
SafeShell VPN: SafeShell includes a dedicated Game Mode. It tunes routes for low latency to game servers. Built by the team behind GearUp Booster. Perfect for competitive online gaming.
8. Device Compatibility
Mullvad: Mullvad supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It also provides WireGuard config files for routers. Up to 5 devices can connect at the same time.
SafeShell VPN: SafeShell supports iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Apple TV, and Android TV. Up to 5 devices connect at the same time. It also supports Apple Vision Pro.
9. Ad & Tracker Blocking
Mullvad: Mullvad includes built-in blockers for ads, trackers, and malware domains. It also offers the Mullvad Browser (based on Tor Browser) for extra privacy while browsing.
SafeShell VPN: SafeShell includes SafeNet AdBlock. It blocks ads and unwanted content during browsing. But it doesn’t offer a separate privacy browser like Mullvad does.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | Mullvad | SafeShell VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly | ❌ Not available | $5.99/week |
| Monthly | €5/month (~$5.50) | ~$12.99/month |
| 3 Months | €5/month (~$5.50) | $24.99/3 months (~$8.33/mo) |
| Annual | €5/month (~$5.50) | $59.99/year (~$5/mo) |
Mullvad: Flat €5/month no matter what. No discounts, no sales, no price increases. This price has stayed the same since 2009. You always know what you’ll pay.
SafeShell VPN: Pricing varies by plan length. The annual plan at $59.99/year works out to about $5/month. That’s slightly cheaper than Mullvad. But the weekly and monthly plans cost significantly more.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum privacy | Mullvad | Anonymous signup, audited no-logs |
| Streaming Netflix | SafeShell VPN | App Mode unblocks 100+ regions |
| Budget-friendly VPN | Mullvad | Flat €5/mo, no surprise renewals |
| Gaming performance | SafeShell VPN | Dedicated Game Mode |
| Open-source code | Mullvad | 100% open-source apps |
| Multi-region routing | SafeShell VPN | Patented App Mode feature |
| Journalist/activist use | Mullvad | Cash payment, zero data collection |
💰 Your Budget
Mullvad costs €5/month with no hidden fees or renewal surprises. SafeShell’s annual plan works out to about $5/month, but monthly and weekly plans cost much more.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Mullvad works on all major platforms and provides router config files. SafeShell adds Apple TV and Android TV support plus the unique App Mode for per-app routing.
📝 Your Primary Use Case
If privacy is your top priority, Mullvad is the clear choice. If streaming and content access matter most, SafeShell wins easily.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Mullvad’s interface is simple but some settings feel advanced. SafeShell is more user-friendly for beginners who just want to stream.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
SafeShell offers a 3-day free trial. Mullvad has no free trial but offers a 14-day money-back guarantee. Test both before committing.
🛟 Support Options
Mullvad offers email support only. SafeShell provides Telegram-based support with fast response times. Neither offers live chat.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Mullvad to SafeShell VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- App Mode for connecting different apps to different countries
- Reliable streaming access for Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video
- Dedicated Game Mode for low-latency gaming
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Anonymous signup — SafeShell requires your email
- Open-source apps and verified security audits
- Cash and anonymous payment options
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Mullvad subscription (just stop adding time)
- Sign up for SafeShell VPN’s 3-day free trial
- Install SafeShell on your devices and set up App Mode
🔄 Switching from SafeShell VPN to Mullvad?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Complete anonymity with no email or personal info needed
- Multiple independent security audits backing the no-logs policy
- Open-source apps you can verify yourself
❌ What you’ll lose:
- App Mode and multi-region routing for streaming
- Reliable Netflix and streaming platform access
- Dedicated Game Mode and subtitle translation
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your SafeShell subscription 24 hours before renewal
- Generate a Mullvad account number (no signup needed)
- Download Mullvad apps and add time with your preferred payment
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Mullvad |
| 🔒 Privacy & Anonymity | Mullvad |
| 🎬 Streaming Access | SafeShell VPN |
| ⚡ Speed & Performance | SafeShell VPN |
| 🛡️ Security & Audits | Mullvad |
| 🎮 Gaming | SafeShell VPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | SafeShell VPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Mullvad |
🏆 WINNER: Mullvad
Mullvad wins 4 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Privacy-focused users, journalists, activists, and anyone who values proven anonymity over streaming features.
Mullvad and SafeShell VPN serve very different users.
Mullvad is the gold standard for VPN privacy. No other VPN lets you sign up without any personal info.
SafeShell VPN is the streamer’s dream. App Mode is genuinely unique and works brilliantly.
If you need proven privacy with audited security, Mullvad is the better choice.
If streaming and gaming are your priorities, SafeShell delivers where Mullvad cannot.
Now, go protect your online life with the VPN that fits your needs!
More of Mullvad Compared
Here’s how Mullvad stacks up against other competitors:
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous signup, open-source apps
NordVPN wins on: Server network size, streaming access
Mullvad vs ExpressVPN
Mullvad wins on: Privacy transparency, flat pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed performance, streaming support
Mullvad vs PureVPN
Mullvad wins on: No-logs verification, anonymous accounts
PureVPN wins on: Dedicated IP addresses, server count
Mullvad wins on: Security audits, cash payments
Surfshark VPN wins on: Unlimited devices, lower long-term price
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous signup, simpler pricing
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan available, larger server network
Mullvad wins on: Open-source code, no personal data required
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free tier, streaming support
Mullvad vs AdGuard VPN
Mullvad wins on: RAM-only servers, privacy audits
AdGuard VPN wins on: Built-in ad blocking integration, browser extension
Mullvad wins on: Transparency, independent audits
Virtual Shield wins on: Ease of use, customer support
Mullvad vs StrongVPN
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous accounts, flat pricing
StrongVPN wins on: Streaming reliability, beginner-friendly interface
Mullvad wins on: Security verification, privacy features
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plans, lower price
Mullvad wins on: Open-source apps, no-logs audits
Aura VPN wins on: Identity protection bundle, broader security features
Mullvad vs CyberGhost
Mullvad wins on: Privacy transparency, cash payments
CyberGhost wins on: Streaming-tuned servers, 45-day guarantee
Mullvad wins on: Independent from antivirus bundles, open-source
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus integration, device protection
Mullvad vs Private Internet Access
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous signup, simpler app
Private Internet Access wins on: Server count, advanced customization
Mullvad wins on: Stable pricing, established track record
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use model
Mullvad wins on: Verified no-logs policy, open-source code
Oyster VPN wins on: Streaming access, user-friendly design
More of SafeShell VPN Compared
Here’s how SafeShell VPN stacks up against other competitors:
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode multi-region routing, subtitle translation
NordVPN wins on: Security audits, server network, reputation
SafeShell VPN wins on: Per-app routing, lower annual price
ExpressVPN wins on: Established reputation, global coverage
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, Game Mode
PureVPN wins on: Dedicated IP, larger server network
SafeShell VPN vs Surfshark VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: Multi-region app routing, streaming search
Surfshark VPN wins on: Unlimited devices, lower price
SafeShell VPN wins on: Streaming performance, App Mode
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss privacy laws, open-source
SafeShell VPN vs AdGuard VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: Game Mode, subtitle translation
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking depth, browser integration
SafeShell VPN vs Virtual Shield
SafeShell VPN wins on: Server count, App Mode feature
Virtual Shield wins on: Simplicity, US-based support
SafeShell VPN vs StrongVPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: Multi-region routing, gaming features
StrongVPN wins on: Established reputation, no-logs policy
SafeShell VPN vs FastestVPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: Streaming features, App Mode
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime pricing option, lower cost
SafeShell VPN vs Aura VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: Subtitle translation, per-app routing
Aura VPN wins on: Identity protection, all-in-one security
SafeShell VPN vs CyberGhost
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, Game Mode
CyberGhost wins on: 45-day money-back guarantee, larger network
SafeShell VPN vs McAfee VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: Streaming access, multi-region routing
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, device protection
SafeShell VPN vs Private Internet Access
SafeShell VPN wins on: Streaming performance, subtitle feature
Private Internet Access wins on: Open-source apps, advanced settings
SafeShell VPN vs Mysterium VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: User-friendly design, streaming focus
Mysterium VPN wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
SafeShell VPN vs Oyster VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, Game Mode, server count
Oyster VPN wins on: Simpler pricing, established track record
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SafeShell VPN safe to use?
SafeShell VPN uses AES-256 encryption and a zero-logs policy. However, it has no published independent audits. It’s fine for streaming but Mullvad is safer for sensitive privacy needs.
Is Mullvad really anonymous?
Yes. Mullvad never asks for your email, name, or any personal info. You get a 16-digit account number. You can pay with cash or crypto for total anonymity.
How does the App Mode feature work?
SafeShell’s App Mode lets you assign different VPN locations to different apps. Netflix can connect to the US while your banking app stays on your home country. You set it once and it stays that way.
Can Mullvad be used for Netflix?
Mullvad struggles with Netflix. In our testing, most Mullvad servers were blocked by major streaming platforms. If streaming is your priority, SafeShell VPN is the better choice.
What is the best VPN for privacy in 2026?
Mullvad is one of the best VPNs for privacy. It requires no personal info, has been audited multiple times, and runs open-source apps. ProtonVPN is another strong privacy option.
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