ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access
Head-to-head comparison of two popular vpn tools. See which one is right for your needs.
Last updated: March 2026
Quick Verdict
ProtonVPN has a higher rating (4.5/5) compared to Private Internet Access (4.3/5). Plus, ProtonVPN offers a free tier while Private Internet Access does not.
ProtonVPN
4.5ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused VPN from the makers of ProtonMail, based in Switzerland. It offers a genuine free tier with no data limits, open-source apps, and Secure Core servers that route through privacy-friendly countries. ProtonVPN is ideal for privacy-conscious users.
Pricing
Free / $4.49/month
Key Features
- Free Tier
- Secure Core
- NetShield Ad Blocker
- P2P Support
- Tor over VPN
- Kill Switch
- Open Source Apps
- No Logs
Pros
- + True free tier
- + Swiss privacy laws
- + Open source
- + Strong security focus
Cons
- − Slower free servers
- − Smaller server network
- − Fewer streaming features
Private Internet Access
4.3Private Internet Access (PIA) is a veteran VPN with a proven no-logs policy tested in court. It offers 35,000+ servers, open-source apps, and unlimited device connections. PIA is popular with privacy advocates and offers extensive customization options.
Pricing
$2.03/month
Key Features
- 35,000+ Servers
- 91 Countries
- Unlimited Devices
- Open Source Apps
- MACE Ad Blocker
- Port Forwarding
- Split Tunneling
- Dedicated IP
Pros
- + Proven no-logs
- + Huge server network
- + Unlimited devices
- + Open source
Cons
- − US-based company
- − Interface not beginner-friendly
- − Inconsistent speeds