OpenVPN vs Mullvad VPN: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between OpenVPN 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: Mullvad VPN wins this matchup. Our overall VPN pick is Proton VPN. Our free VPN pick is Brave. 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:
OpenVPN
Open-source VPN protocol and software
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want industry standard VPN
- • You want self-hostable
Mullvad VPN
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
Best for you if:
- • You want anonymous signup
- • You want simple pricing
| At a Glance | OpenVPN | Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $5/moMullvad VPN |
Best For | Security | Security |
Rating | 4.3/5 | 3.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose OpenVPN or Mullvad VPN?
Choose OpenVPN if
Open-source VPN protocol and software
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want industry standard VPN
- You want self-hostable
Choose Mullvad VPN if
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
- You want anonymous signup
- You want simple pricing
| Feature | OpenVPN | Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.3/5 574 reviews | ★3.7/5 154 reviews |
| Categories | SecurityVPN | SecurityPrivacy Management |
In-Depth Analysis
OpenVPN
Open-source VPN protocol and software
OpenVPN offers a very generous entry point with its free Community and Access Server tiers, making it highly accessible.
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
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
Pricing: OpenVPN vs Mullvad VPN
| Plan | OpenVPN | Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Community | $5/month Mullvad VPN |
| Tier 2 | Free Access Server | N/A |
| Tier 3 | $7 /connection/month Cloud | N/A |
| Tier 4 | $5 /connection/month Connect | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on OpenVPN pricing and Mullvad VPN 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: 4.3/5 (574 reviews). Mullvad VPN: 3.7/5 (154 reviews).
Go with: OpenVPN
Value user reviews?
OpenVPN: 574 reviews (4.3/5). Mullvad VPN: 154 reviews (3.7/5).
Go with: OpenVPN
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OpenVPN is freemium. Mullvad VPN is paid. 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 higher: 4.3/5 vs 3.7/5.
Key Takeaways
Mullvad VPN
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenVPN
- Has a free tier
- Higher user rating: 4.3/5 vs 3.7/5
- Larger review base (574 reviews)
The Bottom Line
Mullvad VPN wins this matchup. Our overall VPN pick is Proton VPN. Our free VPN pick is Brave. OpenVPN has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenVPN or Mullvad VPN better?
Mullvad VPN is rated in our evaluation. OpenVPN is freemium and Mullvad VPN is paid.
What are OpenVPN and Mullvad VPN used for?
OpenVPN: Open-source VPN protocol and software. Mullvad VPN: Anonymous VPN with no personal info required.
What does OpenVPN cost vs Mullvad VPN?
OpenVPN is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Mullvad VPN is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.