Mullvad vs Norton VPN: Which is Best for Security in 2025?

Choosing a VPN can be like picking a bodyguard—you want someone tough, trustworthy, and who will not invade your privacy.

But with so many options, how do you know which is the best fit? 

In this showdown, we compare two popular contenders: Mullvad vs Norton VPN.

We’ll break down their security features in simple terms so you can decide which will keep your online activity private and secure.

Overview

We’ve rigorously tested both Mullvad and Norton VPN to give you the most accurate comparison.

We’ve evaluated their logging policies, encryption protocols, security features, and leak protection capabilities to determine which VPN offers superior security.

What is Mullvad?

Have you ever wished for a VPN that works? No fuss, no distractions? 

That’s Mullvad in a nutshell. They keep it simple with a focus on strong security and privacy. There are no fancy features, just rock-solid protection for your online activity.

Key Benefits

• Strong focus on anonymity: No email address is required to sign up.
• Open-source: Transparent and trustworthy.
• Strong security: Uses WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols.
• Accepts Bitcoin: For anonymous payments.

Pricing

Mullvad VPN has a simple pricing structure: €5/month. That’s it! No discounts for longer subscriptions.

What is Norton VPN?

You probably know Norton because of its antivirus software.

But did you know they also offer a VPN? Norton VPN aims to be a simple, user-friendly option that focuses on online security and privacy.

It’s a decent choice for beginners who want a familiar name they can trust.

Key Benefits

• Strong security: Uses bank-grade encryption to protect your data.
• No-logs policy: Norton promises not to track your online activity.
• Broad device compatibility: Secure up to 10 devices simultaneously.
• Ad-tracker blocker: This helps prevent annoying ads from following you online.
• Split tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN connection.

Pricing

Norton VPN keeps its pricing simple with a few different options:

• Plus: $49.99/year
• Standard: $39.99/year
• Ultimate: $59.99/year

Feature Comparison

Let’s dive deeper and compare Mullvad and Norton VPN head-to-head across key features.

This detailed analysis will help you understand which VPN best fits your specific needs and priorities.

Security and Privacy

• Mullvad: Mullvad is a secure VPN known for its strong commitment to privacy. It has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t store any information about your online activity. AES-256 encryption, a robust VPN protocol, ensures your internet connection is secure and your data is protected. Mullvad also offers features like port forwarding and split tunneling for enhanced privacy.
• Norton: Norton VPN prioritizes security with features like a kill switch and secure encryption. However, its privacy policies are not as transparent as Mullvad’s. While it claims to have a no-logs policy, it is based in the US and is a member of the 5 Eyes Alliance, which may raise concerns for some users.

Server Network

• Mullvad: Mullvad has a decent-sized server network with VPN servers in 39 countries. While not as extensive as other VPN providers, like NordVPN, it offers enough server locations to bypass geo-restrictions and access streaming services.
• Norton: Norton VPN has a more extensive server network with servers in 30 countries, offering a good option for accessing content from different regions.

Speed and Performance

• Mullvad: While not the fastest VPN on the market, Mullvad offers decent speeds for most online activities. You can expect smooth browsing, streaming, and downloading with minimal buffering.
• Norton: Norton VPN’s speeds are generally slower than Mullvad’s. This might be noticeable when streaming high-quality video or downloading large files.

Streaming and Torrenting

• Mullvad: Mullvad is a good option for streaming and torrenting. Its servers allow P2P traffic, and users can access popular streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
• Norton: Norton VPN also supports streaming and torrenting, but their slower speeds may affect performance.

Ease of Use

• Mullvad: Mullvad is incredibly easy to use, even for beginners. Its apps have a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy to connect to and use a VPN server.
• Norton: Norton VPN is also user-friendly, with a straightforward interface that’s easy to navigate.

Pricing

• Mullvad: Mullvad offers a simple and affordable pricing plan at €5/month. They don’t have any tiered plans or discounts.
• Norton: Norton VPN has a more complex pricing structure, with different plans and discounts. It also offers bundles that include Norton 360 and other security features.

Customer Support

• Mullvad: Mullvad’s customer support is limited to email support. They don’t offer live chat or phone support.
• Norton: Norton VPN offers better customer support with live chat and phone support options.

Both Mullvad and Norton are decent VPN options with different strengths and weaknesses.

Mullvad excels in privacy and security, while Norton offers a more extensive server network and better customer support.

Other VPNs provide similar features, such as Proton VPN, which is also a good option.

Ultimately, your best VPN depends on your needs and priorities. Reading a comprehensive VPN review can help you make an informed decision.

What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?

• Strong security and privacy features include a strict no-logs policy, strong encryption (like AES-256), and advanced features like a kill switch and split tunneling.
• Fast speeds and reliable performance: Ensure the VPN offers decent streaming, downloading, and browsing speeds without significant lag.
• Extensive server network: A wide selection of server locations allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions.
• Device compatibility: Choose a VPN that works seamlessly across all your devices (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android).
• Ease of use: The VPN should have an intuitive interface and be easy to set up and use, even for beginners.
• Good customer support: If you encounter issues, look for a VPN provider with responsive and helpful customer support.
• Value for money: Consider the pricing and features to ensure you get the best value.
• Independent audits: Some VPNs undergo independent audits to verify their security and privacy claims, providing an extra layer of trust.

Final Verdict (Our Pick)

For a genuinely secure VPN service, we recommend Mullvad VPN.

Mullvad is super serious about protecting your privacy. They don’t keep any logs of your activity and use strong encryption to keep your data safe.

Plus, it’s easy to use, even if you’ve never used a VPN.

While Norton VPN is a decent choice, it’s not as good as Mullvad regarding privacy. Mullvad is also cheaper and gives you more control over your security.

Remember, a good VPN is like a lock on your front door – it keeps you safe and gives you peace of mind.

We’ve tested tons of VPNs so that you can trust our recommendation.

Mullvad is one of the best VPNs out there, and it’s our top pick for anyone who wants to protect their online privacy.

Unfortunately, they don’t have a free version, but their low price makes it worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions