NordVPN vs Private Internet Access
NordVPN is VPN service with 5,000+ servers, double VPN, and threat protection, while Private Internet Access is Long-established VPN provider with open-source apps and a proven no-logs policy. Private Internet Access comes in cheaper, but price alone does not tell the full story. NordVPN is built for anyone wanting fast, secure vpn with lots of servers, whereas Private Internet Access targets privacy-focused users who want a proven no-logs vpn with open-source transparency.
$2.03/mo
| Feature | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Free tier available | — | — |
| Open source | — | ✓ |
| 35000+ servers | — | ✓ |
| 5000+ Servers | ✓ | — |
| Double VPN | ✓ | — |
| Meshnet | ✓ | — |
| No-logs | — | ✓ |
| Open source | — | ✓ |
| Threat Protection | ✓ | — |
| Unlimited connections | — | ✓ |
| VPN | — | ✓ |
Pricing: NordVPN starts at $3.99/mo. Private Internet Access starts at $2.03/mo. Private Internet Access is the more affordable option.
Feature gaps: NordVPN offers 5000+ Servers, Double VPN and Meshnet that Private Internet Access lacks. Private Internet Access brings 35000+ servers, No-logs and Open source that NordVPN does not have.
Open source: Private Internet Access is open source, meaning you can self-host, audit the code, and avoid vendor lock-in. NordVPN is proprietary — you are trusting the vendor with your data and uptime.
Where each tool shines: NordVPN's biggest strengths are: includes 5000+ servers as a core feature, purpose-built for vpn workflows. includes double vpn as a core feature, purpose-built for vpn workflows. Private Internet Access's biggest strengths are: no-logs policy proven in court — twice. all apps are open source for transparency.
Watch out for: With NordVPN, users commonly note that no free plan — you need to pay $3.99/mo from day one to use it. With Private Internet Access, the main complaint is that owned by kape technologies (formerly crossrider) — controversial parent company.
choose NordVPN if
- You need a tool built for anyone wanting fast, secure vpn with lots of servers
- You specifically need 5000+ Servers and Double VPN
- You care about includes double vpn as a core feature, purpose-built for vpn workflows
choose Private Internet Access if
- You need a tool built for privacy-focused users who want a proven no-logs vpn with open-source transparency
- You want to save on per-user costs — Private Internet Access is $1.96/user/mo cheaper
- You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code
- You specifically need 35000+ servers and No-logs
- You care about all apps are open source for transparency
frequently asked
What is the difference between NordVPN and Private Internet Access?
NordVPN is VPN service with 5,000+ servers, double VPN, and threat protection, while Private Internet Access is Long-established VPN provider with open-source apps and a proven no-logs policy. Private Internet Access comes in cheaper, but price alone does not tell the full story. NordVPN is built for anyone wanting fast, secure vpn with lots of servers, whereas Private Internet Access targets privacy-focused users who want a proven no-logs vpn with open-source transparency.
Should I use NordVPN or Private Internet Access?
Private Internet Access gives you open source and self-hosting; NordVPN is a managed service. Which trade-off works for you?
When should I choose NordVPN over Private Internet Access?
Choose NordVPN if You need a tool built for anyone wanting fast, secure vpn with lots of servers; You specifically need 5000+ Servers and Double VPN; You care about includes double vpn as a core feature, purpose-built for vpn workflows.
When should I choose Private Internet Access over NordVPN?
Choose Private Internet Access if You need a tool built for privacy-focused users who want a proven no-logs vpn with open-source transparency; You want to save on per-user costs — Private Internet Access is $1.96/user/mo cheaper; You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code; You specifically need 35000+ servers and No-logs; You care about all apps are open source for transparency.
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