With over 100 companies to choose from, if you are looking for reliable and secure internet access, there has never been a better time to select a VPN provider. Spoilt for choice might be a good description of the current VPN market, with the best VPN services promising lightning-fast speeds and bulletproof security.
But there is a problem: not all of them deliver on their promises.
While some VPN services live up to the hype, many fall way short of the mark. Tired of this inconsistency, we created VPNxpert to cut through the noise with thorough testing and unbiased insights.
Among the vast number of providers, Mullvad and NordVPN have earned a fairly good reputation among consumers over the last decade or so. But If you have narrowed your options down to these two VPN giants, how do you know which is the best provider for your needs?
To help make your decision a little easier, we vetted both quite vigorously – so let’s take a look.
Mullvad | NordVPN | |
|---|---|---|
| Price (from) | $5.30 Per Month | $2.99 (two-year plan) |
| Security Features | 256-bit encryption, Kill Switch, PFS, No Logs Policy, DNS/IPv6 leak protection | 256-bit encryption, kill switch, No-logs Policy, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, PFS |
| Streaming | Usually reliable with BBC iPlayer & Netflix | Notably reliable with Amazon Prime, HBO, Netflix, BBCi Player, Disney Plus, Hulu |
| Servers | 649 servers (in 40 countries) | 5000 servers (in 60 countries) |
| Max Number of Devices | Five | Six |
| Server Speed | Reliable speeds on local servers although further away the server, the less reliable it gets | Fast on all servers worldwide, although nearby servers are remarkably fast |
| Available OS & Apps | Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, macOS | Windows, Android, iOS, Fire TV, Android TV, macOS, Chromebook, Linux |
| Support Options | Email-only | Always available live chat and email |
At a Glance
In short, both Mullvad and NordVPN have reliable security and best-in-class privacy features, along with reliable, fast torrenting and support with gaming.
There’s also a wide selection of VPN industry-standard features such as a no-logs policy, kill switch, and 256 encryption available with both providers. Also, in addition to DNS and IPv4 leak protection, both offer perfect forward secrecy, split tunneling, RAM-only servers, and reliable Tor support.
Both services could also be described as pretty quick, secure, and fairly priced: arguably the three most important factors in any VPN comparison.
Given the similarities in features, you would be forgiven for thinking a simple coin toss would be the most sensible approach in terms of selecting which one you should spend your hard-earned money with.
However, various factors make one provider in particular almost a hands-down winner in terms of NordVPN vs. Mullvad.
The Lowdown
As our name might suggest, we happen to know a thing or two about the best VPN providers, and in our opinion, NordVPN is superior to Mullvad in many key aspects.
When it comes to Mullvad VPN vs. NordVPN, both are similar in many ways, although NordVPN outshines in a few key areas. With an impressive network of over 5,500 servers across 60 countries, fast speeds are achieved through a broad reach, they excel in streaming, have low latency for gaming, and offer round-the-clock customer support, along with some other features that give it a clear edge over Mullvad.
Mullvad, while smaller, with 760 servers in 40 countries, also offers a solid service, especially in restrictive regions. However, it does tend to lag behind NordVPN in speed and is distinctly hit-and-miss with various streaming services. While not as feature-rich or extensive in customer support as NordVPN, Mullvad does hold its own through its commitment to privacy and ease of use, however.
We have analyzed both NordVPN vs Mullvad VPN across several important metrics, including:
- Security
- Streaming compatibility
- Privacy
- P2P support
- Gaming performance
- Censorship
- User experience
- Price & support
Again, in our opinion, NordVPN is the clear winner out of the two. If you would like to see the reasons why, we encourage you to take a look at our full comparison below to see which provider aligns best with your specific needs.
Mullvad vs. NordVPN Head to Head
We have thoroughly tested ten key aspects of NordVPN vs Mullvad, throwing them both together to see which provider performs the best in each area, including:
- Pricing
- Speed
- Security
- Servers
- Gaming
- Streaming
- Privacy
- Torrenting
- Support
- Apps
- User Experience
Please bear in mind that speeds and torrenting will fluctuate depending on the time of day and location. However, the following stats and figures should provide a pretty good approximation across the board.
Pricing
| Price From | Payment | Money-Back Guarantee | Max Connections | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | $5.30 | Credit/Debit, PayPal, Crypto | 30 days | 5 |
| NordVPN | $2.99 | Credit/Debit, PayPal, Crypto, Google Pay, iTunes, AmazonPay, Sofort | 30 days | 6 |
Both Mullvad VPN and NordVPN offer pretty healthy pricing, but NordVPN edges out with the greater value. NordVPN’s tiered plans range from the Standard at $2.99/month, offering full VPN access, to the more extensive plans that include password management and cloud encryption services.
Conversely, Mullvad VPN keeps things simple with a single rate of $5.30 per month (offering the same level of service whether you pay monthly or choose a bulk period). Both services provide various payment options, including traditional methods and cryptocurrencies, along with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Speed
| 10 GB Download Time | 4K Load Time | HD Load Time | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | Eight minutes local servers, 20 minutes remote servers | Ten seconds on local servers, twelve seconds on remote servers | Five seconds on local servers, six seconds on remote servers |
| NordVPN | Six minutes local servers, 10 minutes remote servers | Instant on local servers, four seconds on remote servers | Instant on local servers, one second on remote servers |
Security Features
| Perfect Forward Secrecy | RAM Servers | Leak Protection | Kill Switch | No Logs | 256 Bit Encryption | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| NordVPN | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
NordVPN and Mullvad VPN both offer good data protection with 256-bit AES encryption, a strict no-logs policy and kill switches. NordVPN provides app-level kill switch options and complete DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leak protection (unlike Mullvad).
Both performed very well in leak tests and used RAM-only servers for enhanced data security, ensuring all information was wiped with each server reset.
They also feature Perfect Forward Secrecy, changing encryption keys each session to protect data. While both support secure protocols like OpenVPN, Mullvad offers WireGuard, and NordVPN introduces NordLynx, based on WireGuard technology. Additionally, NordVPN enhances account security with two-factor authentication.
There isn’t much to differentiate the two providers in this regard – both are quite good, equally.
Servers
| Dedicated IP | Obfuscated Servers | P2P Servers | Virtual Locations | Servers & Countries | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | No | 30 | 750 | No | 760 / 40 |
| NordVPN | Yes | 100 | 4500 | No | 5500 / 60 |
NordVPN boasts over 5,500 servers in 60 countries compared to Mullvad’s 760 in 40, reducing overcrowding and enhancing speed. Both support P2P; NordVPN with 4,500+ dedicated servers, and Mullvad on all servers. NordVPN leads in obfuscated servers with 100+ across 15+ countries, offering more options for bypassing restrictions, while Mullvad provides 30+ in 10+ countries.
Each supports double VPN connections; NordVPN offers pre-configured double VPN in 5+ countries, and Mullvad allows customizable routes. Unique to NordVPN are dedicated IPs from 10+ countries for consistent access and personal IP use.
Gaming
| Cloud Support | Router Support | DDoS Protection | Lag Free | US Server Ping | Remote Server Ping | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | No | Yes | No | Occasional lag | Average 25 seconds | Average 140 seconds |
| NordVPN | No | Yes | No | Occasional lag | Average 20 seconds | Average 190 seconds |
NordVPN’s vast network of 5,500+ servers in 60 countries minimizes slowdowns and provides faster local connections globally, unlike Mullvad’s 760 servers. Both support P2P, with NordVPN offering a broader range of dedicated P2P servers.
Each provides server obfuscation and double VPN connections, with NordVPN leading in obfuscated server count. It is worth noting that NordVPN offers dedicated IP addresses in over ten countries, providing consistent access and personalization.
Streaming
| Streaming Services Compatibility | Netflix? | BBCi, Amazon Prime, Disney? | Smart DNS Available | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | Less than 5 | Yes | No (BBCi sometimes) | No |
| NordVPN | More than 10 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
NordVPN completely leaves Mullvad VPN behind when it comes to streaming capabilities. NordVPN supports 10+ streaming services, including Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer, providing consistent access. Mullvad’s streaming support is far more limited, occasionally struggling with BBC iPlayer.
NordVPN’s smart DNS feature provides VPN benefits to devices without native VPN apps, while its SmartPlay technology (on all servers) combines VPN and smart DNS, improving encryption and bolstering streaming quality.
NordVPN truly is a far superior choice for streaming enthusiasts hoping for reliability and versatility.
Privacy
| Open Source Apps | No Logs Privacy | User Traffic Logged? | IP Address Logged? | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullard | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| NordVPN | Yes | Yes | No | No |
NordVPN and Mullvad offer pretty great privacy features.
NordVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently verified three times, and its various apps and NordLynx protocol have passed security audits. Based in privacy-friendly Panama, it’s flying under the radar outside the major surveillance alliances.
Mullvad, while based in alliance-compliant Sweden, maintains a strict no-logs policy, which has been proven in recent audits. Unique for its anonymous 16-digit account system, Mullvad’s open-source apps allow transparency and independent verification.
Both VPNs accept cryptocurrencies for enhanced privacy, with Mullvad also accepting cash payments. These features establish both as trustworthy, with strong commitments to user privacy. In terms of privacy, it’s pretty much an even tie.
Torrenting
| No Logs Policy | Kill Switch | Proxy Support (SOCKS5) | Port Forwarding | Compatible With Popular P2P Apps? | P2P Servers | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | 4500 |
| NordVPN | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | 760 |
Both NordVPN and Mullvad are solid choices for torrenting in equal measure. There really isn’t too much to separate the two here. Again, NordVPN leads the way on servers, with P2P supported on over 4,500 servers through a long list of countries, while Mullvad offers it on all 760 servers.
Both are compatible with major P2P clients like Vuze, uTorrent, BitTorrent, and Deluge, ensuring smooth torrenting experiences. Each provider also has SOCKS5 proxies for faster yet less secure speeds, although Mullvad requires a VPN connection for its use, enhancing security.
Key torrenting features for both include kill switches and verified no-logs policies, plus effective ad blockers. If we were forced to pick a winner for torrenting, NordVPN’s Threat Protection gets it over the line by offering added defense against malicious sites and files.
Support
| Phone | Troubleshooting | Guides | FAQs | Chat Support | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullard | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| NordVPN | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
NordVPN and Mullvad both feature good customer support with extensive information and tutorial libraries, including FAQs and guides. However, NordVPN takes the edge here thanks to their 24/7 live chat. We tested them thoroughly and found consistently precise and detailed responses.
Our tests of both VPNs’ email support resulted in informative replies within a day. While Mullvad provides reliable email support, NordVPN’s round-the-clock live chat and swift, informative responses make it the more comprehensive option for immediate assistance.
Either way, users of both services have access to a wealth of online resources for self-help and troubleshooting, but if live chat is something you might need from time to time, NordVPN would probably be the better option for you.
App User Experience
| iOS | Android | Windows | Mac | Linux | TV | Chromebook | Router Support | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Nord VPN | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
NordVPN and Mullvad VPN cater to a wide range of devices with apps for iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android TV. NordVPN, however, does go one step further, offering dedicated apps for Chromebook and Fire TV, expanding its reach. Both services provide mobile apps with quick-connect features, ensuring you quickly find the fastest server, alongside user-friendly interfaces complete with comprehensive explanations for each setting.
Their desktop applications are also nice and accessible, with NordVPNs offering a richer range of features and a more intuitive experience, which is particularly beneficial for beginners. Both VPNs provide router configurations, with detailed tutorials guiding you through the setup, should you need them.
Overall, both VPNs have pretty solid app ecosystems, but NordVPN’s additional device support and streamlined desktop interface provide a slightly more refined user experience.
Whether you’re a regular VPN user or new to these types of privacy tools, the ease of installation and the range of device compatibility make both providers solid VPN choices, although – as with many of the features we have reviewed – NordVPN just edges it out.
Overall Winner: NordVPN
When it comes to NordVPN vs. Mullvad, both providers are very good, and we find it challenging to pick any major fault with either provider.
That said, NordVPN easily edges out Mullvad owing to its extensive range of features, solid security measures, gigantic server network of 5,500+ across 60 countries, and commendable speeds.
While Mullvad VPN holds its ground in many respects, NordVPN’s offerings are simply more extensive. The fact is that Mullvad’s network – although quite substantial with 760 servers in over 40 countries – doesn’t match up to the sheer scale of NordVPN, owing to its incredibly vast (and actually quite impressive) server network.
Additionally, NordVPN’s extra features, such as enhanced streaming and gaming functionalities and quicker customer service response times, all count toward a richer user experience.
In the grand scheme of things, while both VPNs serve their purpose quite effectively, NordVPN delivers better overall value. From casual browsers to heavy-duty users, NordVPN is the clear winner through a secure, fast, and versatile VPN experience.
FAQs
Which VPN has better server coverage?
NordVPN boasts a larger server network with over 5,500 servers globally, offering wider coverage and potentially faster connections compared to Mullvad’s 760 servers.
Can I use these VPNs for streaming?
Yes, both VPNs support streaming. NordVPN excels with compatibility across major streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and more, offering a more reliable streaming experience.
Are NordVPN and Mullvad secure for torrenting?
Both VPNs are secure for torrenting, offering strong encryption and no-logs policies. NordVPN provides more dedicated P2P servers, enhancing your torrenting experience.
How do these VPNs protect my privacy?
Both VPNs uphold strong privacy with no-logs policies and robust encryption. Mullvad offers anonymous accounts for enhanced privacy, while NordVPN is based in privacy-friendly Panama.
Which is best out of NordVPN and Mullvad?
In our opinion, and after vigorous testing of bother services, NordVPN is the better VPN provider, although both services are reliable, fast, and reasonably priced.
Is NordVPN faster than Mullvad?
In our tests, NordVPN consistently outperformed Mullvad in speed, maintaining quick connections in both near and far servers with minimal slowdowns. Conversely, Mullvad experienced more significant speed reductions, especially on more distant servers.
