⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: PIA starts at $2.03/mo (2-year plan) vs Mozilla VPN at $4.99/mo (annual plan)
- Best for: PIA for power users who want full control, Mozilla VPN for Firefox users who want simple privacy
- Key difference: PIA has 35,000 servers in 91 countries with unlimited connections. Mozilla VPN has 500+ servers in 30+ countries with a 5-device limit.
- Our pick: Private Internet Access for most users — it costs less long-term and offers far more features
Private Internet Access and Mozilla VPN take very different approaches to online privacy.
PIA is a feature-packed VPN built for users who want full control.
Mozilla VPN is a stripped-down VPN service backed by a non-profit.
Both protect your internet connection, but they serve different needs.
This comparison breaks down pricing, speed, and features so you can pick the right one.
We tested Private Internet Access and tested PIA side by side with Mozilla VPN to see which keeps your data private.
Overview
This Private Internet Access vs Mozilla VPN comparison covers pricing, features, and ease of use for both VPN providers.
We reviewed published specs, documentation, and user feedback for each VPN service.
Our writers also spent hands-on time with each one.
By the end, you’ll know which virtual private network fits your needs.
For the full Private Internet Access review, check our dedicated page. You can also read our Mozilla VPN review for a deeper look at each one.
What is Private Internet Access?
Private Internet Access is a VPN service that encrypts your internet traffic.
It runs 35,000 servers across 91 countries worldwide.
PIA VPN supports unlimited simultaneous connections on all your devices.
The VPN apps are fully open-source, so anyone can inspect the code.
PIA also includes a built-in ad blocker called MACE and a dedicated IP address option.
Private Internet Access makes it easy to keep your user privacy intact on public Wi-Fi and at home.
PIA covers Windows, macOS, Linux, and has an Android app and iOS app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Private Internet Access
PIA offers 35,000 servers across 91 countries with unlimited connections. Open-source apps and a strict no-logs policy make it a top pick for privacy.
Private Internet Access Pricing
PIA offers three plans with no hidden costs. Here’s the breakdown.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Years + 4 Months | $2.03/month | Best value for long-term users |
| 6 Months | $7.50/month | Mid-length commitment |
| 1 Month | $11.99/month | Short-term or testing |
Pricing verified April 2026.
Free trial: No free trial, but PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Money-back guarantee: Full 30-day refund window with no questions asked.
📌 Note: PIA does not raise prices at renewal. This is rare among VPN providers. The price you sign up at stays the same when your plan renews.
⚠️ Warning: The monthly plan at $11.99 is above average. Most VPN users save by choosing the 2-year plan at $2.03/month instead. Look for Private Internet Access deals on the official site for the best price.
Key Benefits of Private Internet Access
Here’s what makes PIA VPN worth considering:
- Massive Server Network: PIA’s servers span 91 countries with 35,000 VPN server locations. This includes servers in all 50 US states.
- Unlimited Connections: Connect all your devices at once. There’s no cap on how many devices you can protect with one subscription.
- Open-Source Apps: Every PIA app is open-source. Anyone can review the code for security flaws or backdoors.
- No-Logs Policy: PIA has a strict no logs policy verified by Deloitte. They don’t store browsing history, DNS queries, or connection data.
- MACE Ad Blocker: The built-in MACE blocker stops ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. It works across all your devices.
- Advanced Split Tunneling: PIA supports split tunneling by app and by IP address. You choose which traffic goes through the VPN tunnel.
- Dedicated IP Option: You can add a dedicated IP address for an extra fee. This helps with sites that block shared VPN IP addresses.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Private Internet Access and spent several days exploring the PIA app. Here’s what stood out:
Private Internet Access Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 35,000 servers across 91 countries give you plenty of server locations
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on one plan
- Open-source VPN apps add transparency and trust
- No price increases at renewal
- Built-in MACE ad and tracker blocker at DNS level
❌ Cons
- Download speeds can drop significantly on distant servers
- Streaming unblocking is inconsistent with some services
- The interface has many advanced settings that may confuse beginners
What is Mozilla VPN?
Mozilla VPN is a standalone VPN service from the makers of the Firefox browser.
It launched in 2020 and runs on Mullvad VPN’s server network.
Mozilla VPN uses the WireGuard protocol for all connections.
It covers up to five devices per subscription and works on Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux.
Mozilla is a non-profit, so the VPN focuses on privacy over profit.
Mozilla VPN
Mozilla VPN is built on Mullvad’s network with WireGuard. It offers a clean interface and Firefox integration for privacy-focused users.
Mozilla VPN Pricing
Mozilla VPN keeps its pricing simple. There are two options.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Annual | $4.99/month | Best value for regular users |
| Monthly | $9.99/month | Short-term or testing |
Pricing verified April 2026.
Free trial: No free trial or free version available.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee for first time customers only.
📌 Note: Mozilla VPN’s annual rate of $4.99/month is cheaper than ExpressVPN and NordVPN’s monthly plans. However, it’s more expensive than PIA’s long-term deal.
⚠️ Warning: Mozilla VPN does not offer a free version. You must pay upfront. The 30-day money-back guarantee only applies to first time customers.
Key Benefits of Mozilla VPN
Here’s what makes Mozilla VPN worth considering:
- Non-Profit Backing: Mozilla is a non-profit that champions a free and open internet. Your subscription supports that mission directly.
- WireGuard Protocol: Mozilla VPN uses WireGuard for every connection. This protocol is designed for fast speeds and strong security.
- Mullvad Network: Mozilla VPN runs on Mullvad VPN’s server network. Mullvad is known for its privacy-first approach.
- Firefox Integration: Firefox users can route different tabs through separate VPN servers using Multi-Account Containers.
- Simple Interface: The app is clean and easy to navigate. It’s built for people who don’t want to fiddle with advanced settings.
- Independent Audits: Cure53 has audited Mozilla VPN’s security. The audit results are publicly available.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer installed Mozilla VPN and tested it across multiple devices. Here’s what stood out from that hands-on time:
Mozilla VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Backed by Mozilla non-profit with a strong privacy mission
- Uses WireGuard protocol for fast and secure connections
- Firefox Multi-Account Containers let you split browser traffic by tab
- Very simple, beginner-friendly interface
❌ Cons
- Limited to only 500+ servers in about 35 countries
- Caps connections at five devices per subscription
- Cannot unblock major streaming services like Netflix or Disney Plus
- No free trial or free version available
Feature Comparison
Let’s compare Private Internet Access vs Mozilla VPN across the features that matter most. We’ll cover 10 key areas to help you decide which VPN provider fits your needs.
| Feature | Private Internet Access | Mozilla VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.03/month | $4.99/month |
| Servers | 35,000 in 91 countries | 500+ in 30+ countries |
| Device Limit | Unlimited | Up to 5 devices |
| Kill Switch | ✅ (Regular + Advanced) | ✅ (Enabled by default) |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ (App + IP-based) | ✅ (App exclusions) |
| Multi-Hop | ✅ | ✅ |
| Open-Source | ✅ | ❌ |
| Ad Blocker | ✅ (MACE) | ✅ (Basic) |
| Streaming Support | ✅ (Optimized servers) | ❌ (Limited) |
| Best For | Power users and customization | Simple privacy for Firefox users |
1. Server Network
Private Internet Access: How many servers does PIA have? It runs 35,000 servers in 91 countries. That includes every US state, which is helpful for accessing region-locked content. PIA uses both physical and virtual servers to cover more server locations without sacrificing speed.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN offers about 500 servers in 30+ countries. The server list is powered by Mullvad’s network, which focuses on privacy over size. This smaller network means fewer options for finding a fast server near you.
2. Privacy and No-Logs Policy
Private Internet Access: PIA has a strict no logs policy that Deloitte has independently verified. PIA does not store browsing history, DNS queries, connection data, or your actual IP address. They also publish quarterly transparency reports showing how they handle legal requests for identifying data.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN does not log your online activity. However, it does collect your IP address and some interaction data when you connect. Cure53 has audited Mozilla VPN’s privacy claims. The Mozilla VPN website states that it does not share your data with advertisers.
⚠️ Warning: Mozilla VPN collects your IP address during sessions. PIA collects only an email and payment info. If you want zero identifying data stored, PIA’s policy is stricter. PIA also runs DNS leaks tests and protects against dns leaks automatically.
3. VPN Protocols and Encryption
Private Internet Access: PIA supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard. With the OpenVPN protocol, PIA uses AES 256-bit encryption. With WireGuard, it uses ChaCha20. You can switch between VPN protocols in the settings and adjust the encryption level to your preference.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN uses the WireGuard protocol only. There’s no option to switch to OpenVPN or other VPN protocols. WireGuard is fast and modern, but having only one choice limits flexibility for power users who want control over their VPN tunnel settings.
4. Kill Switch
Private Internet Access: PIA provides two types of kill switches on Windows and macOS. The regular kill switch blocks internet traffic when the VPN connection drops. The advanced kill switch blocks all internet connection unless PIA is active, even before you connect.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN includes a kill switch that is enabled by default. It protects your internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. There’s no advanced mode or extra configuration needed. It simply works out of the box.
5. Split Tunneling
Private Internet Access: PIA’s split tunneling feature lets you exclude specific apps and IP addresses from the VPN connection. This means you can route browser traffic through the VPN while keeping your regular internet connection for banking apps or local devices.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN calls its split tunneling feature “app exclusions.” You can pick which apps bypass the VPN. However, you cannot exclude specific IP addresses like PIA allows. It’s simpler but less flexible.
6. Speed and Performance
Private Internet Access: PIA’s connection speeds vary by protocol and server location. PIA performs better on Windows using OpenVPN than WireGuard in some speed tests. Download speeds are enough for streaming and web browsing, but speed loss can reach 49% on average. PIA also helps with ISP throttling by hiding your traffic type from your provider.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN’s download speed peaked at 360Mbps according to published test data. Upload speed results are less documented. However, speeds have been reported below average compared to other VPNs. The WireGuard protocol helps keep connection speed stable, but the smaller server network limits options for fast speeds in certain regions.
7. Streaming and Unblocking
Private Internet Access: PIA has streaming optimized servers that can access Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. Results vary by region, and some streaming services block PIA from time to time. PIA works better for unblocking streaming content than most other VPN providers in this price range.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN struggles with major streaming services. It does not reliably unblock Netflix or Disney Plus. It can access some smaller services like ITV, Channel 4, and 9Now. If unblocking geo restricted content is your main goal, Mozilla VPN is not the right choice.
⚠️ Warning: Mozilla VPN’s feature list does not include streaming support as a selling point. If you need to access geo restricted content regularly, Private Internet Access is the better VPN provider for that use case.
8. Device Support and Connections
Private Internet Access: PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections. You can protect mobile devices, desktops, and even set up a VPN router. PIA has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. It also offers a command line app for advanced VPN users. PIA supports port forwarding for incoming connections, which is useful for hosting or torrenting.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN supports up to five devices per subscription. It has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. There are no browser extensions. If you have more than five devices, you’ll need to remove one before adding another. Mozilla does not log session times or share data with other services like Facebook or advertisers.
9. Browser Integration
Private Internet Access: PIA offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. These extensions encrypt only your browser traffic, not your entire internet connection. They’re useful if you just want to protect web browsing without routing all DNS requests through the VPN.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN integrates directly with the Firefox browser through Multi Account Containers. This lets Firefox users connect different tabs to separate VPN servers. It’s a feature no other VPN service offers, and it’s built specifically for Firefox users who want tab-level privacy control.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | Private Internet Access | Mozilla VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest Rate | $2.03/month (2yr + 4mo) | $4.99/month (annual) |
| Mid-Tier | $7.50/month (6 months) | ❌ |
| Monthly | $11.99/month | $9.99/month |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days (first time only) |
Private Internet Access: PIA is the cheaper VPN long-term at $2.03/month. The 2-year plan is among the most affordable VPN deals available. PIA also does not raise prices when your plan renews. Most VPN providers charge more after the first billing cycle.
Mozilla VPN: Mozilla VPN’s annual plan costs $4.99/month. The monthly plan is $9.99, which is actually cheaper than PIA’s monthly rate. Mozilla offers only one subscription option for yearly billing. If you want a cheap VPN for a multi-year commitment, PIA is the better private internet access deal.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest long-term price | Private Internet Access | $2.03/mo vs $4.99/mo |
| Simple, no-fuss VPN | Mozilla VPN | Cleaner app, fewer settings |
| Streaming access | Private Internet Access | Streaming optimized servers |
| Firefox integration | Mozilla VPN | Multi-Account Containers |
| Many devices | Private Internet Access | Unlimited connections |
| Non-profit backing | Mozilla VPN | Mozilla Foundation mission |
💰 Your Budget
PIA costs $2.03/month on the 2-year plan. Mozilla VPN’s best rate is $4.99/month annually. If you want an affordable VPN for the long haul, PIA saves you more money.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
PIA has apps for every platform plus browser extensions and a command line app. Mozilla VPN works on major operating systems but has no browser extensions. Firefox users get the extra Multi-Account Containers feature.
📝 Your Privacy Needs
Both VPN services have no-logs policies and independent audits. PIA’s policy is stricter because it collects less user data. Mozilla VPN does collect IP addresses during sessions.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Mozilla VPN is better for beginners who just want to connect and go. PIA has more settings and options, which can feel overwhelming if you’re new to VPN apps.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Neither VPN offers a free version. Both have a day money back guarantee of 30 days. Mozilla’s refund only applies to first time customers, while PIA’s applies to everyone.
🛟 Support Options
PIA offers 24/7 live chat and email support. Mozilla VPN relies on email support and a help center. If you need quick answers, PIA’s live chat is faster.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Private Internet Access to Mozilla VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Simpler interface with fewer settings to manage
- Firefox Multi-Account Containers for tab-level VPN control
- Support a non-profit organization focused on an open internet
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Unlimited device connections (drops to five devices max)
- 35,000 servers and 91 country coverage
- Port forwarding, dedicated IP, and MACE ad blocker
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your PIA subscription before the next billing date
- Visit the Mozilla VPN website and create a new account
- Install the Mozilla VPN app on up to five devices and connect
🔄 Switching from Mozilla VPN to Private Internet Access?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections for all your devices
- Access to 35,000 servers across 91 countries
- Streaming optimized servers, port forwarding, and a dedicated IP address option
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Firefox Multi-Account Containers integration
- The simple, minimal interface of Mozilla VPN
- Mullvad’s privacy-focused network behind your connection
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Mozilla VPN subscription and uninstall the app
- Sign up at Private Internet Access and choose your plan
- Download the PIA app on all your devices and log in
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users and small households. We didn’t test enterprise features, hardware configuration for VPN routers, or how either VPN handles online gaming with low-latency requirements. Our observations are based on the April 2026 software versions. Both services update their apps regularly, so your experience may differ. If you rely on specific DNS servers or need custom DNS leak testing, those edge cases weren’t part of this review.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Private Internet Access |
| 🔒 Privacy | Private Internet Access |
| ⚡ Speed | Tie |
| 📺 Streaming | Private Internet Access |
| 👶 Ease of Use | Mozilla VPN |
| 🔌 Device Support | Private Internet Access |
| 🌐 Server Network | Private Internet Access |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Private Internet Access |
🏆 WINNER: Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Budget-conscious users, families with many devices, streaming fans, and privacy-focused power users
Private Internet Access and Mozilla VPN serve different types of VPN users. PIA is a full-featured quality VPN with 35,000 servers, unlimited connections, and open-source apps. Mozilla VPN is a simpler service for Firefox users who want basic privacy with multi hop support.
Mozilla VPN is a solid choice if you want a clean app with zero learning curve. Its Firefox Multi-Account Containers feature is unique among all VPN services.
However, PIA offers more server locations, better streaming support, and a lower long-term price. For most users, Private Internet Access is the better VPN and a top tier vpn for the money.
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 at $2.03/mo, unlimited device connections, open-source VPN apps, and no price increases at renewal
NordVPN wins on: Faster average download speeds, better streaming unblocking rates, and a more polished mobile app interface
Private Internet Access vs ExpressVPN
PIA wins on: Much cheaper plans at every tier, 35,000 servers vs ExpressVPN’s smaller count, unlimited connections vs 8 devices, and built-in MACE ad blocker
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster connection speeds on most servers, stronger ability to unblock streaming services worldwide, and a more user-friendly app design
Private Internet Access vs Proton VPN
PIA wins on: Larger server network with 35,000 servers, cheaper long-term pricing, port forwarding on all plans, and MACE DNS-level ad blocker
Proton VPN wins on: A free plan with unlimited bandwidth, Swiss jurisdiction with stronger privacy laws, and built-in Tor over VPN support
Private Internet Access vs Surfshark
PIA wins on: More server locations across 91 countries, open-source code for full transparency, and two types of kill switch options on desktop
Surfshark wins on: Better speeds on long-distance connections, CleanWeb ad blocker with cookie pop-up blocking, and a more modern app design
More of Mozilla VPN Compared
Here’s how Mozilla VPN stacks up against other VPN services:
Mozilla VPN wins on: Simpler interface for beginners, non-profit backing with a focus on an open internet, and Firefox Multi-Account Containers
NordVPN wins on: Far larger server network, reliable Netflix and streaming access, faster speeds overall, and more device connection slots
Mozilla VPN wins on: Slightly lower monthly price than Mullvad’s flat rate, easier app interface, and Firefox-specific tab routing features
Mullvad VPN wins on: Anonymous account creation with no email required, accepts cash payments, and allows direct network access without a Mozilla account
Mozilla VPN wins on: Simpler pricing with fewer plan tiers, cleaner app with less clutter, and unique Firefox browser integration
Proton VPN wins on: A free plan with unlimited bandwidth, larger server network in more countries, better streaming support, and Swiss privacy jurisdiction
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Private Internet Access safe?
Yes. PIA uses AES 256-bit encryption and has a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte. The apps are open-source, so security researchers can inspect the code. It also publishes quarterly transparency reports.
Can Mozilla VPN be trusted?
Mozilla VPN is backed by the Mozilla Foundation, a non-profit. It has been audited by Cure53 for security. The service does not log your activity or share data with advertisers.
Is Mozilla VPN free?
No. There is no free version or free trial. The cheapest plan is $4.99/month on an annual subscription. First time customers get a 30-day money-back guarantee.
How much does PIA VPN cost per month?
The monthly plan is $11.99. The 6-month plan drops to $7.50/month. The best deal is the 2-year plan at $2.03/month, which includes 4 extra months.
Which is better for streaming, PIA or Mozilla VPN?
PIA is better for streaming. It has streaming optimized servers that can access Netflix, Disney Plus, and Amazon Prime Video. Mozilla VPN cannot reliably unblock most major streaming services.
English 
Spanish 
Chinese 
German 
French 
Arabic 
Russian 
Portuguese 
Japanese 
Korean 
Italian 
Turkish 
Dutch 
Polish 
Indonesian 
Thai 
Vietnamese 