NordVPN vs Mullvad VPN — Full Comparison 2026
Last updated: February 2026 · Based on hands-on testing
Our Pick
🏆 NordVPN Wins
NordVPN wins for general users with more features, faster speeds, and streaming support. Mullvad is unmatched for privacy purists with its no-account, cash-payment system and complete anonymity focus.
NordVPN
Mullvad VPN
| Feature | NordVPN | Mullvad VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Monthly Price | $12.99/mo | €5/mo |
| 2-Year Price | $3.09/mo | €5/mo |
| Download Speed | 950 Mbps | 890 Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 420 Mbps | 410 Mbps |
| Latency | 28ms | 26ms |
| Servers | 6,400+ | 800+ |
| Countries | 111 | 43 |
| Simultaneous Devices | 10 | 5 |
| Protocols | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
| Streaming | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer | Limited streaming support |
Speed Comparison
In our speed tests, NordVPN achieved download speeds of 950 Mbps while Mullvad VPN reached 890 Mbps. Both VPNs were tested on a 1 Gbps connection from multiple locations. NordVPN had the edge in raw throughput, though both services deliver speeds that are more than adequate for streaming, gaming, and everyday browsing.
Latency is equally important, especially for gaming and video calls. NordVPN averaged 28ms while Mullvad VPN came in at 26ms. Lower latency means more responsive connections, which matters for real-time applications.
Security & Privacy
Both NordVPN and Mullvad VPN offer strong security foundations with AES-256 encryption and no-logs policies. NordVPN supports NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, while Mullvad VPN offers WireGuard, OpenVPN. Both include essential security features like kill switches and DNS leak protection.
Where they differ is in the extras. NordVPN offers features like Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, Threat Protection, while Mullvad VPN counters with Anonymous Accounts (No Email Required), Cash Payment Accepted, Multi-Hop. These additional features can be the deciding factor depending on your specific needs.
Streaming
Streaming capability is a major differentiator between VPNs. NordVPN successfully unblocked Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, HBO Max in our testing. Mullvad VPN worked with Limited streaming support. Both are solid choices for streaming, though NordVPN was slightly more consistent across platforms.
Pricing & Value
NordVPN starts at $3.09/mo on the 2-year plan ($12.99/mo monthly), while Mullvad VPN costs €5/mo for 2 years (€5/mo monthly). Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can try either risk-free.
Our Verdict
NordVPN wins for general users with more features, faster speeds, and streaming support. Mullvad is unmatched for privacy purists with its no-account, cash-payment system and complete anonymity focus.
Ultimately, both NordVPN and Mullvad VPN are excellent VPN services. Your choice should depend on which features matter most to you. If speed and server coverage are priorities, check the numbers above. If price is the deciding factor, compare the long-term plan costs. Either way, you're getting a quality VPN.