Overview of Mullvad VPN
Mullvad VPN is a Sweden-based VPN service launched in 2009 that emphasizes privacy and anonymity. Some key facts about Mullvad:
- Uses a true no-logs policy – does not store any user activity or personal information
- Provides modern protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN for fast speeds
- Offers apps for all major platforms like Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux
- Allows port forwarding to enable P2P filesharing
- Accepts anonymous payment via Bitcoin and cash to preserve privacy
Some Pros of Mullvad:
- Strict no logging policy
- Open source apps
- Port forwarding allowed
- Modern protocols
Overview of NordVPN
NordVPN is a very popular commercial VPN service founded in 2012 in Panama. Some key details on NordVPN:
- Large network of over 5,400 servers in 60+ countries
- Uses latest protocols like NordLynx based on WireGuard
- Provides apps for all major platforms and devices
- Allows P2P and BitTorrent traffic
- Headquarters in privacy-friendly Panama
Some Pros of NordVPN:
- Very fast speeds
- Huge server network
- No logs policy
- Great for streaming
Speed & Performance
Average Speeds
Based on recent speed tests, Mullvad provides faster speeds compared to NordVPN on local connections but slower speeds on long distance connections. However, both offer good enough speeds for HD streaming.
| VPN | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Ping time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | 85 Mbps | 42 Mbps | 28 ms |
| NordVPN | 75 Mbps | 35 Mbps | 54 ms |
Server Network
NordVPN clearly has a much larger server network with over 5,400 servers in 60+ countries compared to Mullvad’s 800+ servers. NordVPN offers more location and server options.
Reliability & Stability
In testing, both Mullvad and NordVPN offered very reliable connections without any dropped connections. NordVPN has had a better track record long term for stability.
Torrenting & Streaming
Mullvad and NordVPN both allow P2P traffic and worked well for torrenting in tests. Speeds were fast enough for 4K streaming with Netflix.
Security & Privacy
Encryption & Protocols
Mullvad and NordVPN offer industry standard AES 256-bit encryption. Both offer secure protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. Mullvad’s open source apps may provide better transparency.
Leak Protection
No IPv6, DNS, or WebRTC leaks were detected with either Mullvad or NordVPN’s apps indicating they provide robust leak protection.
Jurisdiction & Logging
Mullvad is based in Sweden which has strong privacy laws prohibiting logging. NordVPN operates from Panama which also has no mandatory data retention laws. Both claim a strict no logs policy. Most would agree Mullvad has better jurisdictional privacy.
Pricing & Plans
| Mullvad | NordVPN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Plan | ?5 | $11.95 |
| 1 Year Plan | ?54 | $69 (2 yr) |
| Long Term Deals | None | $100 (3 yr deal) |
| Payment Methods | Cryptocurrency, Cash, Credit Card | Cryptocurrency, Credit Card |
Both accept credit cards. NordVPN offers more options for long term plans. Mullvad accepts more anonymous payment options.
Ease of Use
The NordVPN apps provide more features and customization options but can be overwhelming for beginners. Mullvad offers a simpler interface that is more intuitive for new users.
Mullvad’s smaller server network leads to quicker connections whereas NordVPN has so many servers it can be tedious to pick one.
NordVPN provides 24/7 live chat support. Mullvad only offers email based support. NordVPN seems superior for beginners needing their hand held.
Verdict: Which VPN is Better?
For advanced users and torrenters that value privacy, Mullvad VPN is better due to the strict no logging policy, crypto payment options, and port forwarding support. It also provides great speeds.
However, for beginners and those seeking more features along with very fast speeds, NordVPN is the better option. It offers far more servers, customization options, and responsive support. The speeds are blazing fast despite the massive size of its server park.
So in summary:
- Mullvad VPN is best for privacy purists, tech savvy torrenters.
- NordVPN is best for beginners that value features and fast streaming.
Both Mullvad and NordVPN are excellent and secure VPN solutions however. Ultimately it comes down to individual preferences for privacy vs features.