Private Internet Access vs NordVPN: which should you choose?
Quick answer: Private Internet Access is built for torrenting, while NordVPN suits streaming. For most users NordVPN is the stronger default, but Private Internet Access can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case. Private Internet Access has the lower entry price.
Private Internet Access versus NordVPN comes down to which trade-offs you can live with. Below we compare them on pricing, strengths and the use cases each one fits, then give a clear verdict.
Side-by-side
| Private Internet Access | NordVPN | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | VPN | VPN |
| What it's known for | Huge US server footprint, fully open-source apps, proven no-logs in court and deep configurability. | Largest server network with NordLynx (WireGuard) speeds, Threat Protection malware blocking and audited no-logs policy. |
| Pricing | ~$2.03/mo on multi-year plan, ~$11.95/mo monthly | ~$3-5/mo on 2-year plan, ~$12.99/mo monthly |
| Best audience | Power users and torrenters who want granular control and a proven no-logs record. | Users wanting a do-everything VPN for streaming and privacy without managing technical settings. |
| Best for | torrenting, configurability | streaming, privacy |
| Entry price | ~$2.03/mo | ~$3-5/mo |
| Biggest strength | No-logs claim proven in court (produced no usable data). | Repeatedly and independently audited no-logs policy. |
| Main caveat | US jurisdiction (within 14 Eyes) deters privacy purists. | Monthly plan is expensive (~$12.99). |
Features compared
Beyond the spec sheet, these are the capabilities that define each tool:
Private Internet Access key features
- Fully open-source apps on every platform
- MACE DNS-level ad/tracker/malware blocker
- Huge configurable server network with US city-level choice
- Customizable encryption and port settings
NordVPN key features
- NordLynx protocol (built on WireGuard) for high-speed connections
- Threat Protection Pro: malware, tracker and ad blocking at DNS/app level
- Double VPN multi-hop and Onion-over-VPN routing
- Meshnet for private encrypted device-to-device links
Pricing tiers side by side
Private Internet Access plans
| Plan | Price | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-year plan | ~$2.03/mo | Billed upfront |
| Monthly | ~$11.95/mo |
NordVPN plans
| Plan | Price | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| 2-year plan | ~$3-5/mo | Billed upfront; renews higher |
| Monthly | ~$12.99/mo |
Tiers compiled from the vendors' published plans and independent reviews; prices are approximate and change often, so confirm current figures (and your region's taxes) on each vendor's site.
Strengths compared
Where Private Internet Access wins
The most court-tested no-logs VPN, with 100% open-source apps and deep configurability.
- No-logs claim proven in court (produced no usable data).
- Deeply configurable for power users.
That makes it the stronger pick for power users and torrenters who want granular control and a proven no-logs record.
Where NordVPN wins
One of the most frequently audited no-logs VPNs paired with consistently top-tier WireGuard speeds.
- Repeatedly and independently audited no-logs policy.
- Fast WireGuard-based NordLynx speeds.
That makes it the stronger pick for users wanting a do-everything VPN for streaming and privacy without managing technical settings.
Verdict: choose by fit
Pick by fit rather than by an overall score.
- Choose Private Internet Access if you fit its core audience — power users and torrenters who want granular control and a proven no-logs record.
- Choose NordVPN if you fit its core audience — users wanting a do-everything VPN for streaming and privacy without managing technical settings.
FAQ
Is Private Internet Access better than NordVPN?
NordVPN is the stronger default for most users, but Private Internet Access can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case.
What is the main difference between Private Internet Access and NordVPN?
Private Internet Access is the most court-tested no-logs VPN, with 100% open-source apps and deep configurability. NordVPN is one of the most frequently audited no-logs VPNs paired with consistently top-tier WireGuard speeds.
Which is cheaper, Private Internet Access or NordVPN?
Entry pricing differs: Private Internet Access starts at ~$2.03/mo, while NordVPN starts at ~$3-5/mo. Compare the tiers above against your usage.
Sources
Facts above are drawn from these independent reviews and the vendors' own pages for Private Internet Access and NordVPN: