Mullvad VPN vs Proton VPN: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Mullvad VPN and Proton VPN 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: Proton VPN is our overall VPN pick. Pick Mullvad VPN if you need its specific feature set.
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
Proton VPN
Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You value community feedback (1 reviews)
- • Swiss-based VPN with strict no-logs policy verified by independent audit and 17,300+ servers in 127 countries
- • Secure Core routes traffic through hardened data centers in Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden
| At a Glance |  Mullvad VPN |  Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $5/moMullvad VPN | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Security | Security |
Rating | 3.7/5 | 4.5/5 |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose Mullvad VPN or Proton VPN?
Choose Mullvad VPN if
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
- Anonymous signup
- Simple pricing
- Open source apps
Choose Proton VPN if
Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth
- Secure VPN
- Swiss-based
- Good privacy
| Feature | Mullvad VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★3.7/5 154 reviews | ★4.5/5 41,058 reviews |
| Categories | SecurityPrivacy Management | SecurityVPN |
In-Depth Analysis
Mullvad VPN
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
Mullvad VPN's single flat rate of $5/month is fair and highly competitive, especially considering its strong privacy focus and support for up to 5 devices.
Watch out
10% crypto discount requires specific payment method.
Strengths
- +Anonymous signup
- +Simple pricing
- +Open source apps
Weaknesses
- -Smaller server network
- -No streaming focus
Key features
Proton VPN
Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth
Proton VPN is the strongest privacy-first VPN on the market, and the 2-year plan at $2.99/month makes it one of the cheapest premium options too.
Watch out
The $2.99/month and $3.99/month prices require paying the full 2-year ($71.76) or 1-year ($47.88) amount upfront. If you cancel mid-term, you forfeit the remaining balance after the 30-day refund window.
Strengths
- +Secure VPN
- +Swiss-based
- +Good privacy
- +Free tier
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Slower than some
- -Limited free servers
- -Expensive premium
- -Server availability
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
Pricing: Mullvad VPN vs Proton VPN
| Plan | Mullvad VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $5/month Mullvad VPN | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $4.99 month VPN Plus |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $9.99 month Proton Unlimited |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Mullvad VPN pricing and Proton VPN pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Proton VPN has a free tier. Mullvad VPN is paid only.
Go with: Proton VPN
Want the highest-rated option?
Mullvad VPN: 3.7/5 (154 reviews). Proton VPN: 4.5/5 (41,058 reviews).
Go with: Proton VPN
Value user reviews?
Mullvad VPN: 154 reviews (3.7/5). Proton VPN: 41,058 reviews (4.5/5).
Go with: Proton VPN
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Mullvad VPN is paid. Proton VPN is freemium. Proton VPN lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are security tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Proton VPN is rated higher: 4.5/5 vs 3.7/5.
Key Takeaways
Proton VPN
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 3.7/5
- Larger review base (41,058 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Mullvad VPN
- Choose if you want anonymous VPN with no personal info required
The Bottom Line
Proton VPN is our overall VPN pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mullvad VPN or Proton VPN better?
Proton VPN is rated in our evaluation. Mullvad VPN is paid and Proton VPN is freemium.
What are Mullvad VPN and Proton VPN used for?
Mullvad VPN: Anonymous VPN with no personal info required. Proton VPN: Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth.
What does Mullvad VPN cost vs Proton VPN?
Mullvad VPN is a paid tool. Proton VPN is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.