Mullvad VPN vs OpenVPN: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Mullvad VPN and OpenVPN comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Mullvad VPN is our overall pick for security workflows. Pick OpenVPN if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Mullvad VPN
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
Best for you if:
- • Privacy VPN with no email required
- • 5 euros per month flat pricing
OpenVPN
Open-source VPN protocol and software
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • OpenVPN is an open-source VPN solution for secure remote access
- • It creates encrypted tunnels for private network connectivity
| At a Glance |  Mullvad VPN |  OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $5/moMullvad VPN | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Security | Security |
Rating | - | 4.6/5 |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose Mullvad VPN or OpenVPN?
Choose Mullvad VPN if
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
- Anonymous signup
- Simple pricing
- Open source apps
Choose OpenVPN if
Open-source VPN protocol and software
- Industry standard VPN
- Self-hostable
- Good security
| Feature | Mullvad VPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.6/5 446 reviews |
| Categories | SecurityPrivacy Management | SecurityVPN |
In-Depth Analysis
Mullvad VPN
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
Strengths
- +Anonymous signup
- +Simple pricing
- +Open source apps
Weaknesses
- -Smaller server network
- -No streaming focus
Key features
OpenVPN
Open-source VPN protocol and software
Strengths
- +Industry standard VPN
- +Self-hostable
- +Good security
- +Open source
- +Wide compatibility
Weaknesses
- -Complex setup
- -Performance vs WireGuard
- -Learning curve
- -Manual management
- -UI dated
Key features
Pricing: Mullvad VPN vs OpenVPN
| Plan | Mullvad VPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $5/month Mullvad VPN | Free Community |
| Tier 2 | N/A | Free Access Server |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $7 /connection/month Cloud |
| Tier 4 | N/A | $5 /connection/month Connect |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Mullvad VPN pricing and OpenVPN pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OpenVPN has a free tier. Mullvad VPN is paid only.
Go with: OpenVPN
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenVPN is rated 4.6/5. Mullvad VPN has no ratings yet.
Go with: OpenVPN
Value user reviews?
Mullvad VPN: no ratings yet. OpenVPN: 446 reviews (4.6/5).
Go with: OpenVPN
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Mullvad VPN is paid. OpenVPN is freemium. OpenVPN lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are security tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
OpenVPN is rated 4.6/5; Mullvad VPN has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Mullvad VPN
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenVPN
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Mullvad VPN is our pick. OpenVPN has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mullvad VPN or OpenVPN better?
Mullvad VPN is rated in our evaluation. Mullvad VPN is paid and OpenVPN is freemium.
What are Mullvad VPN and OpenVPN used for?
Mullvad VPN: Anonymous VPN with no personal info required. OpenVPN: Open-source VPN protocol and software.
What does Mullvad VPN cost vs OpenVPN?
Mullvad VPN is a paid tool. OpenVPN is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.