Best Mullvad Alternatives [Free + Paid]

Mullvad has a well-earned reputation as the VPN for privacy purists. With its anonymous sign-up process and flat-rate pricing, it’s a refreshing break from the upsells and “limited-time-only” deals you’ll find plastered across most VPN websites. But let’s be honest: Mullvad isn’t for everyone.

While it nails privacy, it falls short in some areas casual users care about—like streaming and friendly UX.

• Low Streaming Speeds: Great for keeping prying eyes out of your business, but don’t expect Netflix to run smoothly while Mullvad is on.
• Limited Server Network: Covering 47 countries sounds decent, but it’s not much compared to the big players. Plus, it can leave you with slower speeds during peak hours.
• Tech-Heavy Focus: Mullvad is a dream for tech-savvy users who know what “port forwarding” is, but it might leave beginners scratching their heads.

If you’re looking for a VPN that doesn’t make you choose between privacy and actual usability, you’ve got options. Below are the best Mullvad alternatives, packed with features for privacy die-hards and casual streamers alike.

Mullvad Alternatives That Actually Do More Than Hide You in a Privacy Bubble

1. Windscribe

Skip ourselves? Not with these features, we wouldn’t!

Generous Bandwidth

10GB of free data every month, no strings attached. Need more? Tweet about Windscribe or refer a friend and boost your limit. It’s like getting bonus fries with your burger.

R.O.B.E.R.T: Your Personal Internet Bouncer

R.O.B.E.R.T blocks ads, trackers, and malware with the finesse of a pro. But it doesn’t stop there—you can customize filters to block things like gambling sites or those annoying “Did you forget something in your cart?” emails. Even on the free plan, R.O.B.E.R.T works like a champ.

Simultaneous Connections

Mullvad allows multiple devices, but so does Windscribe—even for free users. Your laptop, phone, tablet, and maybe even your smart toaster are all welcome.

User-Friendly Interface

Where Mullvad’s app can feel a bit spartan, Windscribe’s is easy to navigate. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, it’s designed to make VPNs less intimidating and more fun.

With a killer mix of user-friendliness and robust features, Windscribe’s free plan is perfect for users who want Mullvad’s privacy focus without sacrificing usability.

If you thought the free plan was good, buckle up. Windscribe Pro turns things up a notch with more features, better performance, and zero compromises.

Fair Pricing

For $5.75/month on an annual plan, you get all the bells and whistles. Plus, Windscribe runs regular promotions that’ll save you even more cash.

Ethical and Transparent

Like Mullvad, Windscribe champions transparency with clear privacy policies and ethical data practices. No sneaky logging or shady ownership structures here.

Customizable Features

Windscribe lets you tailor your experience with features like R.O.B.E.R.T, server whitelisting, and Static IPs. Whether you’re a casual user or a privacy geek, there’s something for you.

Marketing That Keeps You Coming Back

Who actually enjoys marketing from a service they just signed up for? Nobody. Except Windscribe customers. Why? Because our emails and videos are actually funny. Don’t believe us? Go ahead, check them out—we dare you not to laugh.

Windscribe Pro is like Mullvad’s cooler cousin—offering all the privacy perks but with added streaming, usability, and customization.

If Mullvad feels like it’s stuck in the “privacy enthusiast only” lane, Windscribe is here to widen the road. Whether you go for the free or paid version, it’s a solid alternative that balances security, ease of use, and plenty of entertainment-friendly features. It’s privacy, but practical.

2. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is a well-respected free VPN that, like Mullvad, puts privacy at its core. But it adds some perks that make it a strong contender.

• Unlimited Data: ProtonVPN’s free plan is one of the few that doesn’t limit your data usage. This is perfect for regular browsing, though speeds are throttled to keep servers stable.
• Privacy Protections: Like Mullvad, ProtonVPN takes privacy seriously. It’s based in Switzerland, benefits from strict privacy laws, and adheres to a transparent no-logs policy.
• 10 Devices: ProtonVPN gives you access to 10 devices on a paid plan, which is generous and above the industry standard.

ProtonVPN’s unlimited data and privacy focus make it an excellent choice for users who value privacy and speeds.

3. AirVPN

AirVPN is tailored for users who appreciate Mullvad’s focus on privacy but want more advanced features and transparency.

• Advanced Features: AirVPN’s open-source client, Eddie, allows for deep customization, including VPN over Tor for added privacy.
• Transparency: AirVPN provides real-time server information and follows ethical data practices, appealing to users who prioritize transparency.
• Smaller Server Network: Like Mullvad, AirVPN’s server network is smaller than that of some competitors, but its reliable performance compensates for this limitation.

AirVPN is a great choice for privacy-conscious users who want more control and customization than Mullvad offers.

4. IVPN

IVPN is a no-nonsense alternative to Mullvad, with a similar focus on privacy but with a few unique perks to make it stand out.

• Anonymous Sign-Up: Just like Mullvad, IVPN doesn’t ask for personal information when you create an account. You can stay completely anonymous and even pay with cash.
• Transparent Ownership: IVPN is based in Gibraltar, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, and its ownership is fully disclosed—no murky ties or questionable parent companies here.
• Advanced Privacy Features: IVPN offers multi-hop connections and DNS leak protection as standard, giving you added layers of security that even Mullvad doesn’t emphasize as much.
• Simplicity Meets Functionality: While Mullvad’s UI can feel a bit too barebones, IVPN strikes a balance with a clean, intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate without losing its privacy-focused edge.

Conclusion

Mullvad has its strengths, especially for privacy enthusiasts, but it’s not for everyone. Whether you’re seeking a VPN with better streaming speeds, a more intuitive interface, or broader server options, these alternatives provide plenty of choices.