Proton VPN vs Mullvad VPN: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Proton VPN 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: 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:
Proton VPN
Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want secure VPN
- • You want swiss-based
Mullvad VPN
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
Best for you if:
- • You want anonymous signup
- • You want simple pricing
| At a Glance | Proton VPN | Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $5/moMullvad VPN |
Best For | Security | Security |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 3.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose Proton VPN or Mullvad VPN?
Choose Proton VPN if
Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want secure VPN
- You want swiss-based
Choose Mullvad VPN if
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
- You want anonymous signup
- You want simple pricing
| Feature | Proton VPN | Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 41,014 reviews | ★3.7/5 154 reviews |
| Categories | SecurityVPN | SecurityPrivacy Management |
In-Depth Analysis
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
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: Proton VPN vs Mullvad VPN
| Plan | Proton VPN | Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | $5/month Mullvad VPN |
| Tier 2 | $4.99 month VPN Plus | N/A |
| Tier 3 | $9.99 month Proton Unlimited | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Proton VPN pricing and Mullvad 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?
Proton VPN: 4.6/5 (41,014 reviews). Mullvad VPN: 3.7/5 (154 reviews).
Go with: Proton VPN
Value user reviews?
Proton VPN: 41,014 reviews (4.6/5). Mullvad VPN: 154 reviews (3.7/5).
Go with: Proton VPN
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Proton VPN is freemium. Mullvad VPN is paid. 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: 4.6/5 vs 3.7/5.
Key Takeaways
Proton VPN
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 3.7/5
- Larger review base (41,014 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 Proton VPN or Mullvad VPN better?
Proton VPN is rated in our evaluation. Proton VPN is freemium and Mullvad VPN is paid.
What are Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN used for?
Proton VPN: Swiss privacy protection with unlimited bandwidth. Mullvad VPN: Anonymous VPN with no personal info required.
What does Proton VPN cost vs Mullvad VPN?
Proton VPN is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Mullvad VPN is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.