NordVPN vs Mullvad VPN: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between NordVPN and Mullvad 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: NordVPN is our overall pick for security workflows. 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:
NordVPN
Online VPN service for privacy
Best for you if:
- • VPN service with 7,200+ servers, NordLynx protocol, and Threat Protection malware blocking.
- • Features AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, and support for 10 simultaneous devices.
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
| At a Glance |  NordVPN |  Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $3.39/moBasic 2-Year | $5/moMullvad VPN |
Best For | Security | Security |
Rating | 4.5/5 | - |
Choose NordVPN or Mullvad VPN?
Choose NordVPN if
Online VPN service for privacy
- Large server network
- Fast speeds
- Strong security
Choose Mullvad VPN if
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
- Anonymous signup
- Simple pricing
- Open source apps
| Feature | NordVPN | Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 2,187 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | SecurityVPN | SecurityPrivacy Management |
In-Depth Analysis
NordVPN
Online VPN service for privacy
Strengths
- +Large server network
- +Fast speeds
- +Strong security
Weaknesses
- -Pricey monthly
- -No free tier
Key features
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
Pricing: NordVPN vs Mullvad VPN
| Plan | NordVPN | Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $11.99 Basic Monthly | $5/month Mullvad VPN |
| Tier 2 | $3.39 Basic 2-Year | N/A |
| Tier 3 | $4.39 Plus 2-Year | N/A |
| Tier 4 | $5.39 Complete 2-Year | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on NordVPN pricing and Mullvad VPN pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: NordVPN
Want the highest-rated option?
NordVPN is rated 4.5/5. Mullvad VPN has no ratings yet.
Go with: NordVPN
Value user reviews?
NordVPN: 2,187 reviews (4.5/5). Mullvad VPN: no ratings yet.
Go with: NordVPN
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are security tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
NordVPN is rated 4.5/5; Mullvad VPN has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
NordVPN
- Our pick for this comparison
Mullvad VPN
- Choose if you want anonymous VPN with no personal info required
The Bottom Line
NordVPN is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NordVPN or Mullvad VPN better?
NordVPN is rated in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are NordVPN and Mullvad VPN used for?
NordVPN: Online VPN service for privacy. Mullvad VPN: Anonymous VPN with no personal info required.
What does NordVPN cost vs Mullvad VPN?
NordVPN is a paid tool. Mullvad VPN is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.