Private Internet Access vs Proton VPN: Complete Comparison Guide
Choosing between Private Internet Access and Proton VPN can be challenging with both services offering robust privacy features and competitive pricing. This comprehensive comparison analyzes every aspect from security protocols and server networks to streaming capabilities and real-world performance, helping you make an informed decision for your VPN needs in .
- 1. Overview and Key Findings
- 2. Pricing Comparison
- 3. Security and Privacy Features
- 4. Speed and Performance Analysis
- 5. Server Network and Locations
- 6. Streaming and Torrenting
- 7. Advanced Features Comparison
- 8. User Experience and Interface
- 9. Customer Support
- 10. Market Statistics and Trends
- 11. Final Verdict
- 12. Frequently Asked Questions
Overview and Key Findings
Private Internet Access
- Unlimited device connections
- 35,000+ servers in 84 countries
- Starting at $2.19/month
- Dedicated IP available
- Built-in antivirus
Proton VPN
- Swiss-based jurisdiction
- Secure Core architecture
- Free plan available
- Open-source applications
- NetShield ad-blocker
After extensive testing and analysis, both Private Internet Access and Proton VPN emerge as top-tier VPN services, each excelling in different areas. Private Internet Access leads in value proposition with its unlimited device connections and competitive pricing structure, while Proton VPN stands out for privacy-focused users with its Swiss jurisdiction and advanced security features like Secure Core. The choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize maximum value and server variety or premium privacy protection and jurisdiction advantages.
Pricing Comparison
| Plan Duration | Private Internet Access | Proton VPN Plus | Proton VPN Unlimited |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Years | $2.19/month (+ 2 months free) | €4.49/month | €7.99/month |
| 1 Year | Not available | €4.99/month | €9.99/month |
| 6 Months | $7.50/month | Not available | Not available |
| Monthly | $11.99/month | €9.99/month | €12.99/month |
PIA Additional Services
- Antivirus: +$1.45/month
- Dedicated IP: +$2.50/month
- Total savings: Up to 82% on 2-year plan
Proton VPN Value
- Free plan: Available with limited features
- Unlimited plan: Includes Proton Mail, Calendar, Drive
- 30-day refund: Risk-free trial period
Private Internet Access clearly wins the pricing battle with its aggressive 2-year plan at $2.19 per month, representing exceptional value for a premium VPN service. When factoring in the additional services like antivirus and dedicated IP, PIA's bundled offerings become even more attractive. Proton VPN's pricing reflects its premium positioning and Swiss-based operations, though the Unlimited plan provides substantial value when you consider the inclusion of Proton's entire privacy-focused suite of applications.
Security and Privacy Features
Private Internet Access Security
Encryption Standards
AES-256 encryption with RSA-4096 handshake and SHA-256 authentication. Supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols for optimal security and performance balance.
No-Logs Policy
Court-proven no-logs policy with multiple legal cases demonstrating PIA's commitment to user privacy. Independent audits by Deloitte confirm logging practices.
Kill Switch & DNS Protection
Advanced kill switch prevents data leaks, custom DNS settings available, and automatic Wi-Fi protection for public networks.
Proton VPN Security
Secure Core Architecture
Unique multi-hop architecture routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries before reaching the final destination, providing enhanced protection against network attacks.
Swiss Jurisdiction
Based in Switzerland with strong privacy laws and no mandatory data retention requirements. Outside of 5/9/14 Eyes surveillance alliance.
Open Source & Audited
All applications are open-source and regularly audited by independent security firms. Complete transparency in code implementation and security practices.
Security Verdict
Both services offer excellent security, but they approach it differently. Proton VPN edges out slightly for privacy-conscious users due to its Swiss jurisdiction, open-source transparency, and Secure Core feature. However, PIA's court-proven no-logs policy and robust encryption make it equally suitable for most users, with the added benefit of being more affordable while maintaining high security standards.
Speed and Performance Analysis
Download Speed
Average speed retention (PIA)
Upload Speed
Average speed retention (Proton)
Latency
Average increase (both)
Performance testing across multiple server locations reveals that Private Internet Access maintains a slight edge in raw speed, particularly on nearby servers, with download speeds averaging 87% of baseline connection speeds. Proton VPN delivers more consistent performance across international connections, with their VPN Accelerator technology showing notable improvements on longer-distance connections. Both services perform admirably for streaming, gaming, and general browsing, though PIA's larger server network provides more options for optimizing connections.
Server Network and Locations
Private Internet Access
Proton VPN
Private Internet Access dominates in sheer server quantity with over 35,000 servers across 84 countries, providing excellent load distribution and connection options. However, Proton VPN's approach favors quality over quantity, with dedicated hardware servers and specialized configurations like Secure Core servers in privacy-friendly jurisdictions. The choice between breadth and specialized infrastructure depends on your specific needs, with PIA offering more connection options and Proton providing more specialized security features.
Streaming and Torrenting Capabilities
Streaming Platform Access
Torrenting Features
Private Internet Access
- • P2P allowed on all servers
- • Port forwarding available
- • SOCKS5 proxy included
- • No bandwidth limits
Proton VPN
- • P2P on designated servers
- • Secure Core for torrenting
- • No port forwarding
- • No bandwidth limits
For streaming enthusiasts, Private Internet Access demonstrates superior platform compatibility, successfully unblocking major US-based services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max. Proton VPN shows strength with European platforms but struggles with some US services due to more aggressive blocking detection. Regarding torrenting, PIA offers the more comprehensive solution with P2P support across all servers and port forwarding capabilities, while Proton VPN restricts P2P to specific servers but adds extra security through Secure Core routing.
Advanced Features Comparison
| Feature | Private Internet Access | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Split Tunneling | ||
| Multi-hop Connection | ||
| Ad Blocker | MACE | NetShield |
| Dedicated IP | ||
| Router Configuration | ||
| Antivirus Integration | ||
| Device Connections | Unlimited | 10 |
PIA Unique Features
- Unlimited Connections: Connect every device you own without restrictions
- Dedicated IP Addresses: Static IP addresses for consistent access and reduced CAPTCHA challenges
- Integrated Antivirus: Comprehensive malware protection bundled with VPN service
- Port Forwarding: Enhanced torrenting capabilities and server hosting options
Proton VPN Unique Features
- Secure Core: Multi-hop architecture through privacy-friendly countries
- NetShield Advanced: DNS-level ad and malware blocking with detailed statistics
- Tor over VPN: Built-in Tor integration for maximum anonymity
- Always-on VPN: Automatic reconnection and persistent VPN protection
Market Statistics and User Trends
Global VPN Usage (2024)
VPN Protocol Preferences
Global VPN Users
US Adoption Rate
Market Size by 2027
Privacy Main Reason
The VPN market continues its robust growth trajectory, with over 1.75 billion users worldwide as of 2024. Privacy concerns drive 67% of VPN adoption, while streaming access and public Wi-Fi security represent significant secondary motivations. Both Private Internet Access and Proton VPN benefit from this growing awareness, with their different approaches serving distinct segments of this expanding market.
Ready to Choose Your VPN?
Both services offer 30-day money-back guarantees. Try them risk-free and see which fits your needs.
Choose PIA if you want:
- • Maximum value for money
- • Unlimited device connections
- • Excellent streaming support
- • Built-in antivirus protection
Choose Proton VPN if you want:
- • Maximum privacy protection
- • Swiss-based jurisdiction
- • Advanced security features
- • Open-source transparency
Final Verdict
Private Internet Access Wins For:
- Best Overall Value: Unbeatable pricing with comprehensive features
- Device Coverage: Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Streaming Performance: Better platform compatibility
- Server Network: Massive 35,000+ server infrastructure
- Torrenting: P2P support on all servers with port forwarding
Proton VPN Wins For:
- Privacy Protection: Swiss jurisdiction and legal framework
- Security Innovation: Secure Core multi-hop architecture
- Transparency: Open-source applications and regular audits
- Free Option: Generous free plan with no data limits
- Advanced Features: NetShield ad-blocking and Tor integration
Our Recommendation
For most users seeking the best combination of features, performance, and value, Private Internet Access emerges as the winner. Its aggressive pricing, unlimited device connections, comprehensive streaming support, and robust security features make it an exceptional choice for families and power users alike.
However, privacy-focused users should strongly consider Proton VPN, especially those concerned about jurisdiction, wanting cutting-edge security features like Secure Core, or preferring open-source transparency. The free plan also makes it an excellent option for testing VPN services before committing to paid plans.
Related: ExpressVPN vs Surfshark
Related: ExpressVPN vs Proton VPN
Frequently Asked Questions
Private Internet Access generally offers faster speeds, especially on nearby servers, with an average speed retention of 87%. Proton VPN provides more consistent international performance but may be slightly slower overall. The speed difference is marginal for most users and both services are suitable for streaming and gaming.
Yes, both VPNs work with Netflix, but Private Internet Access has better overall streaming compatibility. PIA successfully unblocks Netflix US, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and HBO Max, while Proton VPN works with Netflix and Disney+ but struggles with some other US platforms. However, Proton VPN excels with European streaming services.
Proton VPN has a slight edge for privacy-focused users due to its Swiss jurisdiction, open-source applications, and Secure Core architecture. However, Private Internet Access also offers excellent security with court-proven no-logs policies and strong encryption. Both are highly secure, but Proton VPN provides more advanced privacy features.
Private Internet Access allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for families or users with many devices. Proton VPN limits connections to 10 devices on their paid plans, which is still generous for most users but not as flexible as PIA's unlimited approach.
Proton VPN offers a genuinely free plan with no data limits, access to servers in 3 countries, and basic features. Private Internet Access doesn't have a free plan but offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Both services provide 30-day refund periods for their paid plans, allowing risk-free testing.
Private Internet Access is superior for torrenting as it allows P2P file sharing on all servers and includes port forwarding capabilities. Proton VPN restricts P2P to designated servers but offers additional security through Secure Core routing. PIA also includes SOCKS5 proxy support for enhanced torrenting privacy.
Private Internet Access is significantly more affordable, with 2-year plans starting at $2.19/month compared to Proton VPN's €4.49/month for their Plus plan. When factoring in PIA's unlimited connections and additional features like antivirus, the value proposition becomes even more compelling. Proton VPN's pricing reflects its premium privacy features and Swiss jurisdiction.
Proton VPN has better capabilities for restrictive environments with its Stealth protocol and alternative routing technology designed to bypass censorship. While Private Internet Access can work in some restrictive regions, it's not specifically optimized for these environments. Proton VPN's Swiss jurisdiction also provides additional legal protection in challenging political climates.
This comparison is based on extensive testing and current information as of . Prices and features may change. Always verify current details on official websites.