PureVPN vs Mullvad: Best VPN for Privacy in 2025?

Choosing the right VPN can feel like navigating a maze. You want top-notch privacy without sacrificing speed.

But with so many options, how do you decide?

In this head-to-head matchup, we’re diving deep into two popular VPNs: PureVPN vs Mullvad.

Both promise to keep your online activity private, but which one delivers?

We’ll break down their features, security measures, and ease of use to help you find the perfect VPN for your needs. Let’s get started!

Overview

We’ve spent weeks testing both PureVPN and Mullvad to give you the most accurate comparison.

We’ve evaluated their performance in real-world scenarios, examining factors like streaming, torrenting, gaming, and overall browsing experience.

This hands-on approach allows us to provide you with insights you can trust.

What is PureVPN?

Ever heard of PureVPN? It’s a popular VPN service. They’ve been around for a while.

They have tons of servers all over the world. Want to watch your favorite shows while traveling?

PureVPN can help. Need to secure your connection on public Wi-Fi?

PureVPN has you covered. It’s easy to use, even for beginners.

Also, explore our favorite PureVPN alternatives…

Key Benefits

• Massive server network: Boasts 6,500+ servers in 70+ countries.
• Blazing-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming and downloading.
• Strong security: Uses 256-bit AES encryption.
• Multiple device support: Connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.
• Split tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN.

Pricing

• Max: $19.95/month.
• Plus: $15.95/month.
• Standard: $12.95/month.

What is Mullvad?

Looking for a VPN that’s serious about privacy? You need to check out Mullvad.

They’re all about keeping your data safe and secure. There is no logging or tracking; it’s pure anonymity.

They even let you pay with cash if you want to be extra careful!

Mullvad might not have all the bells and whistles of other VPNs, but it’s worth considering if privacy is your top priority.

Also, explore our favorite Mullvad alternatives…

Key Benefits

• Strong privacy focus: Strict no-logs policy.
• Open-source code: Transparency is key.
• RAM-only servers: Your data disappears with every reboot.
• Port forwarding: Great for torrenting and gaming.
• Bridge mode: Bypass censorship with ease.

Pricing

• 1 Month: €5 per month..
• 1 Year: €5 per month.
• 1 decade: €5 per month.

Feature Comparison

Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of these two VPN services, examining their key features side-by-side.

1. VPN Server Locations

• PureVPN: Extensive network with 6,500+ VPN servers in 70+ countries. Excellent for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing global content. Outperforms some top contenders like NordVPN and ExpressVPN in terms of server count.
• Mullvad: Smaller network with 800+ VPN servers in 40+ countries. Focuses on strategic locations for optimal performance and privacy. Mullvad VPN prioritizes quality over quantity.

2. Protocols

• Both offer OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 for secure and encrypted connections.
• Mullvad offers WireGuard by default, which is known for its speed and security advantages. Thus, it is a strong contender.

3. Security Features

• Both include essential security features, such as a kill switch and DNS leak protection, to safeguard data and hide IP addresses.
• Mullvad adopts a minimalist approach, concentrating on core security essentials. This aligns with their firm privacy policy.

4. Privacy Policy

• Mullvad excels with a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activity remains private and anonymous. They are a top choice for privacy-focused users.
• PureVPN also has a no-logs policy, but their more detailed privacy policy may be less reassuring to some users.

5. Streaming Services

• PureVPN is a strong choice for accessing streaming services with optimized servers for platforms like Netflix and others.
• Mullvad can unblock some streaming services, but it’s not their primary focus. Users looking to stream extensively might consider alternatives like NordVPN or Proton VPN.

6. Ease of Use

• Both offer user-friendly apps across various devices, making it easy to use a VPN.
• PureVPN’s interface is slightly more intuitive, particularly for beginners.

7. Pricing

• Mullvad offers a simple, single-tier pricing plan at €5/month (approximately $5.42/month). No free VPN option is available.
• PureVPN has a tiered pricing structure with various plans and discounts, offering better value depending on your needs.

What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?

• Security Features: Ensure the VPN offers essential security features, such as the kill switch, DNS leak protection, and strong encryption protocols (such as OpenVPN and WireGuard).
• Privacy Policy: Scrutinize the VPN’s privacy policy to understand their logging practices and data retention policies. Look for a strict no-logs policy.
• Server Network: Consider the size & distribution of the VPN’s server network. A more extensive network offers more options for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content.
• Speed and Performance: Choose a VPN that provides fast and reliable connections, especially if you plan to use it for streaming or downloading.
• Device Compatibility: Ensure the VPN is compatible with all your devices and operating systems.
• Customer Support: If you encounter any issues, look for a VPN provider with responsive and helpful customer support.
• Pricing: Compare pricing plans and consider your budget. Look for discounts and long-term plans for better value.
• Free Trials and Money-Back Guarantees: Opt for a VPN that offers you a free trial or a money-back guarantee so you can test it risk-free.

Final Verdict

In the Mullvad vs PureVPN showdown, privacy-focused users will favor Mullvad.

Mullvad beats PureVPN with its strict no-logs policy and RAM-only servers.

However, Mullvad doesn’t offer the vast server network that PureVPN does.

PureVPN takes the lead in streaming and bypassing geo-blocks.

PureVPN boasts a massive server network and faster speeds. PureVPN, based on pricing plans, also offers more flexibility.

Ultimately, the best choice depended on your needs. Do you need a VPN but want to explore other options?

Check out ProtonVPN or NordVPN. NordVPN offers features similar to PureVPN, while ProtonVPN prioritizes privacy, like Mullvad.

Remember, even the best free VPN has limitations. For proper online security and privacy, we recommend a paid VPN subscription.

More of PureVPN

We’ve explored alternatives to PureVPN, so let’s see how PureVPN measures up directly against them:

• PureVPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN is generally faster and better for streaming, though PureVPN can be more budget-friendly. NordVPN also has a larger server network.
• PureVPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is typically faster, more reliable for streaming, and has better apps. PureVPN boasts a larger server count, but ExpressVPN has a stronger privacy record.
• PureVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark often has better speeds and more features, including unlimited connections. PureVPN has a larger server network, but Surfshark has wider global coverage.
• PureVPN vs ProtonVPN: PureVPN tends to be faster and better for streaming, while ProtonVPN prioritizes stronger security and privacy features.
• PureVPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN is often favored for its more consistent speeds and stronger privacy focus, while PureVPN has a larger server network.
• PureVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN’s key feature is its ad-blocking integration, while PureVPN is a more comprehensive VPN service.
• PureVPN vs Virtual Shield: PureVPN offers a wider range of features and better performance than the simpler Virtual Shield.
• PureVPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is known for strong encryption, but PureVPN has a larger server network and more features.
• PureVPN vs FastestVPN: PureVPN is generally faster and has a larger server network than the budget-friendly FastestVPN.
• PureVPN vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN includes identity theft protection, while PureVPN focuses on VPN features and a wider server selection.
• PureVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost is user-friendly with specialized servers, while PureVPN offers a larger server network.
• PureVPN vs McAfee VPN: PureVPN is a dedicated VPN service with more features than the basic VPN included with McAfee.
• PureVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA is often faster, while PureVPN can unblock more streaming services. PIA allows unlimited connections.
• PureVPN vs Mysterium: PureVPN uses a traditional server network, while Mysterium is a decentralized VPN with a different approach to anonymity.

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 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.

Frequently Asked Questions