Proton VPN vs Mullvad Comparison

With a plethora of VPN (Virtual Private Network) options available, finding the right one can be daunting. If you've narrowed it down to Proton VPN and Mullvad, it’s evident that privacy is a priority for you. Both VPN services are highly regarded for their privacy features, but how do they compare in terms of speed, ability to bypass geo-restrictions, user-friendliness, and cost?

To assist you in making an informed choice, we’ve crafted a detailed comparison of Proton VPN versus Mullvad. The guide is organized into distinct sections, allowing you to jump to areas of interest easily. Throughout the article, you'll find comparison tables that highlight how these two VPNs measure up against one another. We will compile all the insights gained from our evaluations to determine which VPN stands out as the overall champion.

Proton VPN advantages include:

• Excellent at bypassing streaming service restrictions
• Extensive network of servers
• Sufficient speed for 4K streaming
• Based in Switzerland, known for strong privacy laws
• More economical two-year subscription option
• Anonymous sign-up without the need for an email
• Payment options available in cash or cryptocurrency

Mullvad VPN benefits consist of:

• Consistent and rapid server performance
• Budget-friendly one-month subscription
• User-friendly applications that are easy to navigate

Ultimately, this comparison aims to clarify which of the two VPNs may be the best fit for your specific needs.

Mullvad VPN stands out by providing a straightforward pricing model with a consistent monthly fee of €5, translating to approximately $5.15 USD as of now. Users have the flexibility to choose how frequently they want to recharge their subscription and the duration of their service.

In contrast, Proton VPN follows a more conventional approach, offering users three distinct subscription options: a one-month plan, an annual plan, and a two-year plan.

When comparing pricing structures, Proton VPN presents a one-month plan at a cost of $9.99, which is notably higher than Mullvad's offerings.

However, the situation changes with longer commitments; Proton VPN's annual subscription drops to $4.99 per month, making it a more cost-effective option.

For those looking for the best deal, the two-year plan from Proton VPN is particularly attractive, priced at $4.49 monthly after a significant 55% discount.

In total, this amounts to $107.76 over a two-year span, while Mullvad's equivalent plan would total $126.24, highlighting a clear financial advantage for Proton VPN over an extended period.

When comparing Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN, one noticeable difference is their subscription models. Unlike other VPN services like NordVPN or Surfshark, both Proton VPN and Mullvad provide a single-tier subscription with all features included. Proton VPN does offer an unlimited plan that combines its various services, such as Proton Mail and Proton Drive, but the core VPN features remain the same across all subscriptions.

Both VPNs come with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, which I've personally tested. In both instances, I received prompt refunds without any hassle, allowing users to explore their offerings confidently.

For those looking for the best value with Proton VPN, there's currently a significant discount available: you can secure a two-year plan at 55% off, totaling just $107.76, which breaks down to approximately $4.49 per month—a total savings of $132.

On the other hand, Mullvad maintains a straightforward pricing structure with a consistent monthly fee of €5, converting to about $5.15 based on current exchange rates.

Both Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN can be downloaded on various platforms including desktop (Windows, macOS, and Linux) and mobile devices (Android and iOS).

Interestingly, Proton VPN also offers applications for devices like Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV, making it a more suitable option for streaming. In contrast, Mullvad can be used with those devices by manually setting up a connection through a compatible router.

Both services provide helpful guides for router configuration. Proton VPN supports a slightly broader range of routers and firmware. When it comes to split tunneling, both VPNs allow users to select which traffic goes through the VPN and which can bypass it. However, Mullvad offers this feature across more apps, while Proton VPN uniquely supports it for Android TV.

In terms of additional features, Proton VPN has a slight edge thanks to its browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. Both VPNs include an ad blocker and the option for double encryption (Double VPN). A standout feature of Proton VPN is its Tor over VPN servers, which facilitate traffic routing through the Tor network directly from the Proton VPN application.

Mullvad does offer a Firefox extension, but it functions as a SOCKS5 proxy rather than a traditional VPN app, providing protection against IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks. Additionally, Mullvad has developed a privacy-centric browser in partnership with the Tor Project that does not store cookies or cache and blocks trackers.

When comparing Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN, both have earned their spots among the top contenders for speed.

With impressive performance exceeding the required 15 Mbps for 4K streaming, users can enjoy seamless viewing experiences.

These VPNs provide fast download speeds, enabling lag-free streaming and enhancing online gaming with minimal latency.

A common use for VPNs is to bypass content restrictions based on geographic location. However, not all services are equally effective in this area.

Proton VPN stands out in its ability to access a wide range of geo-restricted streaming platforms.

It successfully unblocks various library options, including those from Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and HBO Max, ensuring users have the content they desire at their fingertips.

VPN Comparison: Proton vs. Mullvad

Mullvad VPN does not prioritize bypassing content restrictions, which is reflected in its limited success in accessing streaming platforms. During tests, it could only connect to Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and ITVX.

For users intending to stream while traveling internationally, Proton VPN emerges as the better option.

VPNs are generally permitted in most parts of the world, allowing users to access them freely. However, the situation in China is quite different. While using VPNs isn’t technically illegal in the country, only those approved by the government, which are often subject to strict censorship, are allowed. As a result, many VPN services face blocks, and not all can bypass these restrictions effectively.

When comparing Proton VPN and Mullvad, it's important to note that neither is considered among the top choices for use within China. Reports from users vary, with some finding success while others struggle to connect. Given the ever-changing landscape of internet accessibility in China, the safest approach is to ensure that the VPN app is installed on your device prior to arriving in the country.

Proton VPN offers a stealth mode option that can be enabled through its settings. This feature disguises the VPN traffic to appear like standard internet activity, making it harder for censorship filters to detect. On the other hand, Mullvad employs a bridge mode that utilizes Shadowsocks proxies, providing an additional encryption layer aimed at overcoming these restrictions.

When it comes to creating an account, Proton VPN follows a typical process similar to many other VPN services. Users need to provide their email and set up a strong password to gain access to their account. In contrast, Mullvad takes a distinctive approach by assigning users a randomly generated account number. This number serves as the sole means of access, so it's crucial to keep it safe, as there is no option for recovery.

The process of downloading and installing both Proton VPN and Mullvad is quite similar, featuring an intuitive setup wizard that simplifies the entire experience. Each service offers a quick connect option, allowing users to secure their connections with just one click. However, a notable distinction is that while both platforms present server locations in a list format, Proton VPN enhances user experience with an additional expandable map view.

Both Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN offer user-friendly applications, but Mullvad stands out with its cleaner and more intuitive interface.

Users will appreciate the responsiveness of both the desktop and mobile applications in each service.

Mullvad makes it particularly simple to access settings; you can do so with just a single click from the home screen.

In contrast, while Proton VPN's mobile apps also provide straightforward access, the MacOS version requires an extra step. You need to click on Proton VPN in the taskbar and then select settings, which is slightly less convenient.

Adjusting the configurations is straightforward. Both VPN services predominantly feature toggle switches or dropdown menus, allowing for swift and effortless modifications.

Proton VPN boasts an extensive server network, featuring over 9,000 servers spread across 112 countries.
This extensive infrastructure surpasses that of competitors like Surfshark and ExpressVPN.

The advantage of having a larger number of servers is that it alleviates the load on each individual server, resulting in more consistent performance.
Additionally, the wide array of server locations facilitates the bypassing of geo-restrictions and allows users to connect to a server that is geographically closer for enhanced speed.

In contrast, Mullvad VPN operates with a much smaller network, consisting of just over 600 servers located in 48 countries.
This limitation may pose a challenge if you're seeking a server in a specific region that Mullvad does not cover.
However, Mullvad's user base is likely smaller than that of Proton, which offers a range of popular services, including Proton Mail, thereby reducing the need for an extensive server network.

Both VPNs feature servers in key regions such as the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Mullvad does not provide servers in any additional locations that Proton VPN offers, which includes some lesser-known countries like Comoros and Turkmenistan.

When it comes to server speed, Proton VPN has a slight edge, achieving an average speed of 216 Mbps in recent tests, while Mullvad recorded an average of 209 Mbps.
Both services utilize the efficient WireGuard protocol and provide unlimited bandwidth.

It’s essential to note that server speeds can fluctuate based on various factors, such as your internet connection, current server utilization, and the distance to the VPN server.
We consistently conduct speed tests to ensure accurate and current results, and given the comparable performance of Proton VPN and Mullvad, neither offers a significant advantage in this category.

Below is a detailed list of the countries where Proton VPN and Mullvad provide server options:

Proton vs Mullvad VPN Comparison

Proton VPN stands out with a wider array of VPN protocols, featuring WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and a unique stealth protocol. In contrast, while Mullvad also supports WireGuard and OpenVPN, it lacks IKEv2, which is recognized for delivering faster speeds on mobile devices compared to OpenVPN.

Despite the differences, WireGuard and OpenVPN are the most widely adopted protocols. OpenVPN is known for its adaptability, allowing users to tailor their settings, which is particularly useful for bypassing censorship. On the other hand, WireGuard has gained popularity rapidly due to its exceptional speed and a simplified codebase that enhances security audits.

When it comes to security, both VPNs are top-notch, employing 256-bit AES encryption alongside 4096-bit RSA keys for the OpenVPN protocol. Users opting for WireGuard will benefit from ChaCha20 encryption, which is regarded as highly secure.

Both Proton VPN and Mullvad come equipped with a kill switch feature in their desktop and mobile applications. Mullvad's kill switch is automatically activated and cannot be disabled, which is an important safeguard that halts internet traffic if the VPN connection drops temporarily, ensuring no data leaks outside the secure tunnel.

In terms of DNS usage, neither Proton VPN nor Mullvad relies on public DNS servers; both utilize private DNS servers to enhance data protection and privacy. Additionally, both services offer mechanisms to bypass censorship—Proton VPN includes a stealth protocol, while Mullvad utilizes bridge (multihop) servers for similar purposes.

Proton VPN is based in Switzerland, a nation renowned for its robust privacy regulations and not being part of any surveillance alliances. Swiss legislation does not require VPN providers to store user data, which is a significant advantage. On the other hand, Mullvad is located in Sweden, which also lacks mandatory data retention laws. Although Sweden is a member of the 14 Eyes intelligence-sharing group, Mullvad operates as a no-logs provider, meaning it should have minimal data to share.

Both Proton VPN and Mullvad are recognized for their exceptional no-logs policies, arguably among the best in the VPN industry. They maintain zero connection logs or activity logs, allowing users to browse the internet with complete anonymity and privacy. Furthermore, both services have undergone independent audits, enhancing their transparency and building trust with users.

When signing up for Proton VPN, an email address is required. This contrasts with Mullvad’s approach, which does not ask for any email during the registration process. Instead, users receive a randomly-generated account number, which further safeguards their privacy since it is not directly associated with their identity.

Both VPNs support anonymous payment methods. However, users must create an account initially to facilitate cash payments, ensuring that the funds are allocated to the correct account. For Proton VPN, the process involves signing up for a free plan before opting for an upgrade and selecting cash as a payment method.

While both providers accept cryptocurrency, Mullvad simplifies the process by allowing users to pay with it directly at signup. Proton VPN, however, does not present the cryptocurrency payment option during initial registration. It can be accessed later through the account dashboard under credits. The only cryptocurrency accepted by Proton VPN is Bitcoin, which is pseudonymous rather than fully anonymous, whereas Mullvad offers both Bitcoin and Monero, with Monero being a more privacy-oriented choice.

Both Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN share common functionality with most VPN services, allowing users to connect to a server and receive a shared IP address. This method enhances privacy by obscuring individual activities associated with that IP.

While dedicated IP addresses can be beneficial for those aiming to bypass blacklists or reduce CAPTCHA prompts, they come at an additional cost and may compromise user anonymity. It's worth noting that neither Proton VPN nor Mullvad provides dedicated IPs for personal accounts, although Proton VPN does offer this feature for business clients.

In terms of DDoS protection, neither service specifically includes dedicated measures. However, both Proton and Mullvad can still offer a degree of security. The encryption utilized by these VPNs conceals your real IP address, making it difficult for potential attackers to trace. If your VPN-assigned IP were to be targeted, you could easily switch servers to maintain your online activities without interruption.

Customer Support Comparison

When it comes to customer support, both Proton VPN and Mullvad VPN provide commendable assistance, ensuring users receive prompt and relevant responses to their inquiries.

Proton VPN stands out by offering live chat support, though it's important to note that this service is not available around the clock; it operates only during business hours. If you’re accustomed to 24/7 live chat options, such as those provided by NordVPN and Surfshark, this limitation might be a drawback for you.

Neither Proton VPN nor Mullvad VPN provides telephone support, which is a common trend among VPN providers, with IPVanish being a notable exception. However, both services feature comprehensive help sections that offer step-by-step guides and FAQs, which can be very helpful for users.

In terms of privacy, both VPNs uphold rigorous no-logs policies and allow for anonymous cash payments. Mullvad arguably has an advantage here by accepting Monero, a highly regarded privacy-focused cryptocurrency, and it doesn’t require an email address for account creation, instead utilizing a token-based system.

On the other hand, Proton VPN takes the lead with its extensive server network and superior capabilities in unblocking popular streaming services. Unlike Mullvad, Proton VPN provides browser extensions and apps for devices like Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV. While Mullvad’s flat fee of €5 per month is competitive, long-term commitment with Proton VPN can yield even lower costs.

Ultimately, while both VPNs have their merits, if your primary goal is streaming, Proton VPN is likely the better choice for your needs.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a virtual private network that enables users to access region-restricted content on Netflix by connecting to servers in various countries. By choosing a reliable VPN provider that supports streaming, users can create an account, download and install the VPN application, and connect to a server in the desired region to enjoy Netflix content that may not be available in their own location. This allows for a broader choice of movies and shows, enhancing the streaming experience.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you're looking to access region-restricted content by using a Netflix VPN, you may want to consider the SafeShell VPN . SafeShell VPN offers a variety of benefits that make it an excellent choice for streaming Netflix content from different regions. One of the standout features is its high-speed servers that are specifically optimized for Netflix, ensuring a seamless streaming experience without interruptions. These cutting-edge servers provide lightning-fast connection speeds for buffer-free playback and high-definition streaming, which is essential when other Netflix VPNs are not working.

In addition, SafeShell VPN allows you to connect up to five devices simultaneously, supporting a wide array of operating systems such as Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more, making sure you can enjoy Netflix on any device. The exclusive App Mode feature enables you to access and enjoy content from multiple regions at the same time, expanding your entertainment options without restrictions. Moreover, SafeShell VPN ensures top-level security with its proprietary ShellGuard VPN protocol, offering advanced encryption for secure browsing. With the combination of high-speed performance and robust security, SafeShell VPN is a reliable choice for accessing region-restricted Netflix content.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

To begin using SafeShell Netflix VPN , the first step is to subscribe to SafeShell VPN by visiting their website at https://www.safeshellvpn.com /. Choose a plan that suits your needs and budget, and then click the "Subscribe Now" button to proceed with your subscription. Once subscribed, proceed to download and install the SafeShell VPN application. Navigate back to the SafeShell VPN website, select the device you're using, whether it's Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android, and download the appropriate version of the app or software.

After installation, launch the SafeShell VPN app and log in to your account. SafeShell supports two modes, but for an optimized experience when watching Netflix, it's recommended to select the APP mode. Next, you'll need to choose a VPN server. Browse through the list of available servers and select one from the region whose Netflix library you want to access, such as the US, UK, or Canada. Click on "Connect" to establish a connection with your chosen server. Once connected, open the Netflix app or visit the Netflix website, log in with your Netflix account, and enjoy streaming content from the selected region with SafeShell Netflix VPN.