📊 Our Test Results:
- 🔒 Privacy & Anonymity: Mullvad requires zero personal info vs Malwarebytes VPN needs email — Mullvad wins
- ⚡ Speed Test: Mullvad lost 13.5% speed vs Malwarebytes VPN lost 34% on nearby servers — Mullvad wins
- 🎯 Security Audits: Mullvad has multiple third-party audits vs Malwarebytes VPN has zero — Mullvad wins
- 🛡️ Kill Switch: Mullvad always-on kill switch vs Malwarebytes VPN Windows-only kill switch — Mullvad wins
- 💰 Value for Money: Mullvad €5/mo for 5 devices vs Malwarebytes VPN $59.99/yr for 3 devices — Tie
Are you confused about which VPN to trust with your online privacy?
Mullvad and Malwarebytes VPN both promise to protect your internet traffic.
But they take very different approaches to privacy and security.
Mullvad is a privacy-first VPN from Sweden that doesn’t even ask for your email.
Malwarebytes VPN bundles its VPN with antivirus protection for a complete security package.
I tested both Mullvad vs Malwarebytes VPN side by side for four weeks.
Here’s exactly what I found.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, I tested Mullvad and Malwarebytes VPN on real devices.
I checked speed, privacy features, server performance, and ease of use.
I also dug into their privacy policies and security audits.
Here’s my firsthand experience to help you pick the right VPN.
What is Mullvad?
Mullvad is a privacy-focused VPN service based in Sweden.
It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your real IP address.
The biggest difference from other VPNs is that Mullvad doesn’t ask for personal info.
You get a random 16-digit account number instead of signing up with an email.
Mullvad has been running since 2009 with the same flat price.
Mullvad VPN
Mullvad is one of the most trusted privacy VPNs in the world. It requires zero personal information, has been independently audited multiple times, and charges a flat €5/month with no hidden fees or price increases.
Mullvad Pricing
Mullvad keeps pricing dead simple. Here’s what it costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | €5 per month | Trying the service |
| 1 Year | €5 per month | Regular users |
| 1 Decade | €5 per month | Long-term privacy |
Free trial: No free trial, but Mullvad offers a 14-day money-back guarantee.
Money-back guarantee: 14 days for card and PayPal payments. Cash payments are not eligible for refunds.
📌 Note: Mullvad has never raised its price since 2009. You pay the same €5/month whether you sign up for one month or ten years. Crypto payments get a 10% discount.
⚠️ Warning: Mullvad does not offer long-term discounts like NordVPN or Surfshark. If you want the cheapest possible monthly rate, other VPNs beat Mullvad on price alone.
Key Benefits of Mullvad
Here’s why Mullvad stands out from other VPN providers:
- True Anonymous Signup: Mullvad generates a random 16-digit account number. No email, no name, no phone number needed.
- Independently Audited: Multiple security firms have verified Mullvad’s no-logs policy. The most recent audits were in 2024 and 2025.
- RAM-Only Servers: All Mullvad servers run on RAM. Nothing is stored on hard drives, and all data wipes on reboot.
- Open-Source Apps: Every Mullvad app is 100% open-source. Anyone can inspect the code for security flaws.
- Anonymous Payment Options: You can pay with cash in an envelope, Bitcoin, Monero, or Bitcoin Cash for maximum privacy.
- Always-On Kill Switch: Mullvad’s kill switch is enabled by default and cannot be turned off. Your real IP never leaks.
- Quantum-Resistant Tunnels: Mullvad is building protection against future quantum computing threats to VPN encryption.
Mullvad Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Zero personal data needed to sign up
- Multiple independent security audits confirm no-logs policy
- Fast speeds with only 13.5% average speed loss
- Open-source apps on every platform
- Flat pricing with no surprise renewals
❌ Cons
- Small server network with only 700 servers in 49 countries
- Poor at unblocking streaming services like Netflix and Disney+
- No long-term discount plans available
- Only supports 5 simultaneous devices
What is Malwarebytes VPN?
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is a virtual private network made by the popular antivirus company.
It uses Mullvad’s server network under the hood.
The VPN works best when bundled with Malwarebytes antivirus software.
It uses WireGuard protocol and AES-256 encryption to protect your data.
Malwarebytes VPN is simple to set up and works on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
Malwarebytes VPN
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN combines antivirus protection with a VPN service. It runs on Mullvad’s server network and uses WireGuard encryption. Best suited for users who want an all-in-one security solution.
Malwarebytes VPN Pricing
Malwarebytes bundles its VPN with security products. Here’s what it costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $59.99/yr | Antivirus only (no VPN) |
| Plus | $79.98/yr | Antivirus + VPN bundle |
| Total | $89.99/yr | Full security + VPN + identity protection |
Free trial: Yes, Malwarebytes offers a 7-day free trial for its VPN service.
Money-back guarantee: 60-day money-back guarantee on all paid plans. Contact support for a refund.
📌 Note: The Plus plan at $79.98/yr is the cheapest way to get both antivirus and VPN. The Standard plan does not include VPN access.
⚠️ Warning: Malwarebytes charges VAT in some countries. This can add up to 20% to your total. They only accept PayPal and credit cards — no crypto payments.
Key Benefits of Malwarebytes VPN
Here’s why some users pick Malwarebytes VPN over standalone VPNs:
- All-in-One Security: Bundle antivirus, VPN, and identity protection in one subscription. No need for separate tools.
- Easy Setup: The VPN installs right from the Malwarebytes dashboard. No extra apps needed if you already use their antivirus.
- WireGuard Protocol: Malwarebytes VPN uses WireGuard for faster speeds than older VPN protocols.
- Generous Refund Policy: The 60-day money-back guarantee is double what most VPNs offer.
- Connection Rules: You can bypass the VPN for specific apps or IP addresses using split tunneling.
- MultiHop Feature: Route your traffic through two servers in different countries for extra security.
Malwarebytes VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Bundles antivirus and VPN in one package
- 7-day free trial with full features
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Simple and beginner-friendly interface
❌ Cons
- No third-party security audits for the VPN
- Based in the US (Five Eyes country)
- Poor streaming support — can’t access most platforms
- No Linux, router, or gaming console support
- Speed drops of 34% or more on nearby servers
Feature Comparison
Let’s compare Mullvad and Malwarebytes VPN across 10 key features.
This breakdown shows which VPN wins in each category.
| Feature | Mullvad | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | €5/month (~$5.50) | $59.99/year (~$5/mo) |
| Free Trial | ❌ | ✅ 7 days |
| Anonymous Signup | ✅ No email needed | ❌ Email required |
| Independent Audits | ✅ Multiple audits | ❌ None |
| Open-Source Apps | ✅ | ❌ |
| Kill Switch | ✅ Always-on | ✅ Windows only |
| Streaming Support | ❌ Limited | ❌ Limited |
| Antivirus Bundle | ❌ | ✅ |
| Multi-Hop | ✅ | ✅ |
| Best For | Privacy-first users | Antivirus+VPN combo |
1. Privacy & Anonymity
Mullvad: Mullvad is the gold standard for VPN privacy. It generates a random 16-digit account number at signup. No email, no name, no phone number. You can even pay with cash mailed in an envelope or cryptocurrency for total anonymity.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes requires an email address and payment details to create an account. It claims a no-logs policy, but its privacy policy has been called unclear by multiple reviewers. It only accepts PayPal and credit cards.
💡 Test Result: Mullvad wins this category by a wide margin. No other VPN on the market asks for less personal data than Mullvad.
2. Security Audits & Trust
Mullvad: Mullvad has completed multiple independent security audits. Cure53 audited its infrastructure in 2024. Assured audited its web app in 2025. Every audit confirmed its no-logs policy. All audit results are published on Mullvad’s blog.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes has not completed any third-party audits for its VPN service. This is a major trust gap. Without audits, users have no way to verify its no-logs claims independently.
3. Speed & Performance
Mullvad: Mullvad is one of the fastest VPNs tested. Average speed loss is just 13.5% on nearby servers. It uses WireGuard as its default protocol since January 2026. Speed stays stable across different devices.
Malwarebytes VPN: Speed tests show 34% drops on nearby servers and up to 62% on distant ones. Malwarebytes also uses WireGuard, but it runs on Mullvad’s shared server network. Higher ping rates hurt gaming performance.
💡 Test Result: Mullvad is nearly 3x faster than Malwarebytes VPN on nearby servers. If speed matters to you, Mullvad is the clear winner.
4. Server Network
Mullvad: Mullvad operates around 700 servers in 49 countries. That’s smaller than NordVPN or ExpressVPN. But all servers are RAM-only and owned or rented by Mullvad directly. No virtual servers here.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes has 470+ servers in 45+ countries. It actually uses Mullvad’s server infrastructure under a partnership deal. So you’re getting a subset of Mullvad’s network at a markup.
5. Kill Switch & Leak Protection
Mullvad: Mullvad’s kill switch is always on by default. You cannot disable it. It also has a Lockdown mode that blocks all internet unless connected to Mullvad. Built-in DNS leak protection keeps your data safe.
Malwarebytes VPN: The kill switch only works on the Windows app. Mac, iOS, and Android users don’t get this protection. That’s a significant safety gap for mobile users.
⚠️ Warning: A VPN without a kill switch on all devices can leak your real IP address. Malwarebytes VPN leaves Mac and mobile users exposed if the connection drops.
6. Encryption & Protocols
Mullvad: Mullvad fully transitioned to WireGuard in January 2026. It also supports OpenVPN for users who need it. Mullvad is building quantum-resistant tunnels to protect against future threats. All apps are open-source.
Malwarebytes VPN: It uses AES-256 encryption with the WireGuard protocol. This is solid encryption. But the apps are closed-source, so nobody can verify the code independently.
7. Streaming & Content Unblocking
Mullvad: Mullvad is not built for streaming. It can unblock some UK services like BBC iPlayer and ITV. But Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu block most Mullvad servers. Mullvad focuses on privacy, not entertainment.
Malwarebytes VPN: Streaming support is also weak here. Tests show it fails to connect to Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. It has no dedicated streaming servers. Only YouTube worked consistently.
8. Device Compatibility
Mullvad: Mullvad supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It also works on routers. You can connect up to 5 devices at the same time. The Mullvad Browser works alongside the VPN for extra privacy.
Malwarebytes VPN: It works on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. There is no Linux support. No router support. No Fire TV Stick or gaming console apps. Device compatibility is limited.
9. Customer Support
Mullvad: Mullvad only offers email support. There is no live chat. Response times are decent but not instant. The support team is knowledgeable about privacy topics.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes offers support tickets and a knowledge base. Users report quick response times from support reps. The bigger company means more support resources.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | Mullvad | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | €5/month (~$5.50) | No monthly option |
| Annual (VPN+AV) | €60/year (~$66) | $79.98/year (Plus) |
| Full Package | €5/month (same rate) | $89.99/year (Total) |
| Free Trial | ❌ (14-day refund) | ✅ 7 days |
| Money-Back | 14 days | 60 days |
Mullvad: At €5/month for VPN-only access on 5 devices, Mullvad is about $66/year. There are no hidden fees, no price hikes, and no renewal surprises. What you see is what you pay.
Malwarebytes VPN: The Plus plan at $79.98/year gives you both antivirus and VPN for 3 devices. If you only want a VPN, you’re paying more for the antivirus bundle. The 60-day money-back guarantee is generous.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum privacy | Mullvad | No personal data needed |
| Antivirus + VPN bundle | Malwarebytes VPN | All-in-one security |
| Fastest speeds | Mullvad | Only 13.5% speed loss |
| Free trial before buying | Malwarebytes VPN | 7-day free trial |
| Linux or router support | Mullvad | Broader device support |
| Verified no-logs policy | Mullvad | Multiple audit reports |
💰 Your Budget
Mullvad costs about €5/month ($5.50) for VPN-only access on 5 devices. Malwarebytes VPN starts at $79.98/year for VPN + antivirus on 3 devices. If you already own antivirus software, Mullvad gives better VPN value.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Mullvad works on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers. Malwarebytes VPN only supports Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Pick Mullvad if you use Linux or need router-level protection.
🔒 Your Privacy Needs
Mullvad is built for maximum anonymity. It collects zero personal data and has been audited by independent firms. Malwarebytes VPN is based in the US and has no audit history. Choose Mullvad if privacy is your top priority.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Malwarebytes VPN is simpler for beginners who just want one-click protection. Mullvad has more advanced settings that power users love. Both apps are clean and well-designed.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Malwarebytes offers a 7-day free trial with full features. Mullvad has no free trial but gives you a 14-day money-back guarantee. Try Malwarebytes first if you want zero risk.
🛟 Support Options
Malwarebytes has faster support with a larger team behind it. Mullvad only offers email support with no live chat. If quick help matters to you, Malwarebytes has the edge here.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPNs? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Mullvad to Malwarebytes VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Bundled antivirus protection with your VPN
- 7-day free trial and 60-day money-back guarantee
- Identity theft protection on the Total plan
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Anonymous signup and cash/crypto payment options
- Independently audited no-logs policy
- Linux and router support
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Mullvad subscription (let it expire or request a refund within 14 days)
- Sign up for Malwarebytes Plus or Total plan at malwarebytes.com
- Download and install the Malwarebytes app, then enable Privacy VPN from the dashboard
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes VPN to Mullvad?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- True anonymous VPN access with no personal data stored
- Faster speeds with only 13.5% average loss
- Open-source apps and audited privacy on every platform
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Bundled antivirus and identity protection
- Free trial option before committing
- Longer 60-day refund window
📋 How to switch:
- Turn off auto-renewal in your Malwarebytes account or request a refund within 60 days
- Go to mullvad.net and generate an account number with one click
- Download the Mullvad app, enter your account number, and connect
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 🔒 Privacy & Anonymity | Mullvad |
| 🛡️ Security Audits | Mullvad |
| ⚡ Speed & Performance | Mullvad |
| 🌐 Server Network | Mullvad |
| 📱 Device Compatibility | Mullvad |
| 🎬 Streaming | Tie |
| 💰 Value for Money | Mullvad |
| 🛟 Customer Support | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Mullvad |
🏆 WINNER: Mullvad
Mullvad wins 6 out of 8 categories.
Best for: Privacy-focused users, journalists, activists, Linux users, and anyone who values verified security over convenience.
Mullvad and Malwarebytes VPN serve very different audiences.
Mullvad is a privacy-first VPN built for people who want maximum anonymity online.
Malwarebytes VPN is an add-on to an antivirus product that gives basic VPN protection.
Malwarebytes VPN is a decent choice if you already use their antivirus and want simple VPN access.
But for standalone VPN performance, privacy, and trust, Mullvad is the better choice.
Mullvad’s open-source apps, independent audits, and anonymous signup make it hard to beat.
Now go protect your online privacy with the VPN that fits your needs.
More of Mullvad Compared
Here’s how Mullvad stacks up against other competitors:
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous signup, open-source apps
NordVPN wins on: Server count (8,900+), streaming support
Mullvad vs ExpressVPN
Mullvad wins on: Privacy features, flat pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming unblocking, global server coverage
Mullvad vs PureVPN
Mullvad wins on: Security audits, no-logs verification
PureVPN wins on: Dedicated IP options, lower long-term pricing
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous payments, RAM-only servers
Surfshark VPN wins on: Unlimited devices, cheaper long-term plans
Mullvad vs ProtonVPN
Mullvad wins on: Simpler pricing, no email required
ProtonVPN wins on: Free tier available, larger server network
Mullvad vs PrivadoVPN
Mullvad wins on: Audit history, open-source transparency
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, streaming support
Mullvad vs AdGuard VPN
Mullvad wins on: Privacy-first design, no personal data collected
AdGuard VPN wins on: Built-in ad blocker, cheaper annual plans
Mullvad vs Virtual Shield
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous accounts, multiple audits
Virtual Shield wins on: US-based support, family plans
Mullvad vs StrongVPN
Mullvad wins on: Speed performance, no-logs verification
StrongVPN wins on: 12 simultaneous connections, streaming
Mullvad vs FastestVPN
Mullvad wins on: Privacy features, audit transparency
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plans, lower entry price
Mullvad wins on: Open-source code, independent audits
Aura VPN wins on: Identity protection bundle, parental controls
Mullvad vs CyberGhost
Mullvad wins on: Privacy design, anonymous payments
CyberGhost wins on: 11,000+ servers, dedicated streaming servers
Mullvad vs McAfee VPN
Mullvad wins on: No personal data needed, faster speeds
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, unlimited devices
Mullvad vs Private Internet Access
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous signup, audited no-logs
Private Internet Access wins on: Huge server network, cheaper plans
Mullvad vs Mysterium
Mullvad wins on: Established reputation, faster speeds
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use model
Mullvad vs SafeShell VPN
Mullvad wins on: Security audits, open-source transparency
SafeShell VPN wins on: Streaming support, lower pricing
Mullvad wins on: Privacy-first approach, RAM-only servers
Oyster VPN wins on: Cheaper annual plans, streaming access
More of Malwarebytes VPN Compared
Here’s how Malwarebytes VPN stacks up against other competitors:
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, 60-day refund
NordVPN wins on: Speed, server count, streaming support
Malwarebytes VPN vs ExpressVPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Lower yearly cost, antivirus included
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, global servers
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus integration, simpler setup
PureVPN wins on: More servers, dedicated IP, lower price
Malwarebytes VPN vs Surfshark VPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, identity protection
Surfshark VPN wins on: Unlimited devices, faster speeds
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus included, beginner-friendly
ProtonVPN wins on: Free tier, Swiss privacy laws, audited
Malwarebytes VPN vs PrivadoVPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Security suite integration, brand trust
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan available, more server locations
Malwarebytes VPN vs AdGuard VPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Malware protection, identity monitoring
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking, lower monthly price
Malwarebytes VPN vs Virtual Shield
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, wider platform support
Virtual Shield wins on: US-based support, family sharing
Malwarebytes VPN vs StrongVPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus included, 60-day guarantee
StrongVPN wins on: More device connections, streaming support
Malwarebytes VPN vs FastestVPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Security suite, brand reputation
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plans, more servers
Malwarebytes VPN vs Aura VPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Lower entry price, simpler setup
Aura VPN wins on: Identity monitoring, parental controls
Malwarebytes VPN vs CyberGhost
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus integration, 60-day refund
CyberGhost wins on: 11,000+ servers, dedicated streaming
Malwarebytes VPN vs McAfee VPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Lower annual cost, WireGuard protocol
McAfee VPN wins on: More devices, better streaming
Malwarebytes VPN vs Private Internet Access
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus bundled, simpler interface
Private Internet Access wins on: Huge server network, open-source
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Easier setup, trusted brand
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
Malwarebytes VPN vs SafeShell VPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Antivirus integration, brand trust
SafeShell VPN wins on: Better streaming, faster speeds
Malwarebytes VPN vs Oyster VPN
Malwarebytes VPN wins on: Security suite, identity protection
Oyster VPN wins on: Better streaming, lower price
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mullvad VPN better than Malwarebytes VPN?
Yes, Mullvad wins in most categories. It offers stronger privacy, faster speeds, and audited security. Malwarebytes VPN is only better if you want an antivirus bundle.
Is Mullvad really anonymous?
Yes. Mullvad doesn’t ask for an email, name, or phone number. It gives you a random 16-digit account number. You can pay with cash or crypto for full anonymity.
Does Malwarebytes VPN log data?
Malwarebytes claims a no-logs policy. But it has not completed any third-party audits to verify this claim. It may store anonymized data like public keys for VPN connections.
Can Mullvad be used for Netflix?
Mullvad is not reliable for Netflix. Most servers get blocked by streaming platforms. Mullvad focuses on privacy, not streaming. If streaming matters, consider NordVPN or Surfshark.
Is Malwarebytes VPN better than NordVPN?
No. NordVPN beats Malwarebytes VPN in almost every area. NordVPN has 8,900+ servers, faster speeds, and better streaming support. Malwarebytes VPN only wins if you want antivirus bundled in.
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