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Mysterium vs Private Internet Access: Which Vpn is Best in 2025?

by | Last updated Jan 23, 2025

Winner
Private Internet Access
9.0
  • No Logs Policy
  • Dedicated IP
  • Antivirus
  • VPN Router
  • Privacy Protection
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Paid Plans from $2.03/month
Runner Up
Mysterium logo
8.0
  • Unlimited IP Rotation
  • Chat and Rotation
  • Residential IP
  • Military Grade Attention
  • Wiregurde Port
  • 7-Day Money-Back Guarantee
  • Paid Plans from $3.19/month
Mysterium vs Private Internet Access

Choosing the right VPN can feel like navigating a maze.

Do you need blazing-fast speeds or rock-solid security? Maybe you’re looking for the best value for your money. We understand. 

That’s why we’re diving deep into two popular VPN providers: Mysterium and Private Internet Access.

In this head-to-head matchup, we’ll break down their features, performance, and pricing to help you decide which one comes out in 2025.

Let’s get started!

Mysterium vs Private Internet Access Overview

We’ve spent weeks testing both Mysterium and Private Internet Access to give you the most accurate comparison. 

We’ve evaluated their speed, security features, streaming performance, and ease of use in real-world scenarios.

This hands-on experience allows us to provide an informed perspective on which VPN is the best choice for you.

mysterium VPN

Experience true online privacy with Mysterium VPN. Join a network with over 2,400 residential IPs and enjoy secure, anonymous browsing.

8out of 10

Pricing: 7-day money-back guarantee. Plan Starts at $3.19/month

Key Features:

  • DVPN
  • Pay-As-You-Go System
  • No-Logs Policy
Private Internet Access logo

Boost your online privacy with Private Internet Access. Experience a truly secure connection risk-free with Private Internet Access

9out of 10

Pricing: 30-day money-back guarantee. Plan Starts at $2.03/month

Key Features:

What is Mysterium?

Have you ever heard of a VPN that works a little differently? That’s Mysterium.

Instead of relying on a company’s servers, it uses a network of regular people like you and me.

These people share their extra bandwidth, and Mysterium encrypts your connection through their devices. Pretty cool, right?

This means there is no single point of failure, making it more difficult for anyone to track your online activity.

Mysterium Logo
Mysterium
9.0

Experience true online privacy with Mysterium VPN. Join a network with over 2,400 residential IPs and enjoy secure, anonymous browsing.

Key Benefits

  • Decentralized network: Increased privacy and security.
  • No-logs policy: Doesn’t store your data.
  • Open-source: Transparent and community-driven.
  • Pay-as-you-go pricing: Only pay for what you use.

Pricing

  • 1-month plan: $9.99/month
  • 6-month plan: $6.85/month
  • 1-year plan: $5.14/month
  • 2-year plan: $3.19/month
Mysterium VPN

Pros

  • It is very secure and private.
  • Affordable for occasional use.
  • Supports a good cause.
  • Growing network of nodes.
  • Unique approach to VPNs.

Cons

  • Speeds can be inconsistent.
  • Not ideal for heavy usage.
  • Requires cryptocurrency knowledge.
  • Limited customer support options. compared to others.

What is Private Internet Access?

Are you looking for a VPN that’s been around for a while? Check out Private Internet Access (PIA).

PIA has been a major player in the VPN game for years.

It is known for its strong commitment to privacy and its massive network of servers. PIA offers many features and is constantly improving its service.

Private Internet Access logo
Private Internet Access
8.0

Boost your online privacy with Private Internet Access. Experience a truly secure connection risk-free with Private Internet Access

Key Benefits

  • Unwavering commitment to privacy: A strict no-logs policy you can trust.
  • Advanced security features include a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling.
  • Colossal server network: Offers 35,912+ servers in 84 countries.
  • MACE ad blocker: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections: Protect all your devices at once.

Pricing

  • 1 Month: $11.95/month.
  • 3 years+ 3 Months: $2.03/month.
  • 1 year: $3.33/month.
Private Internet Access

Pros

  • Strong encryption.
  • Large server network.
  • Strict no-logs policy.
  • Unlimited connections.
  • User-friendly apps.
  • Includes antivirus.

Cons

Mysterium vs Private Internet Access Feature Comparison

Let’s examine the details and compare these two VPNs feature by feature.

This will help you understand which VPN is best suited for your specific needs.

Security Protocols

  • Mysterium: Utilizes the WireGuard protocol, known for its speed and strong encryption.
  • Private Internet Access: Offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, giving you more choice and flexibility.
Top Benefits of PIA

Server Network

  • Mysterium leverages a decentralized network of users and offers unique residential IPs. This means your VPN connection appears to be from a regular home internet connection, making it harder to detect.
  • Private Internet Access: Boasts a vast network with over 35,000 servers in 84 countries. This ensures you can always find a fast and reliable server nearby.

Privacy Features

  • Mysterium: Built with a strong focus on anonymity. They have a strict no-logs policy and use advanced encryption to protect your data.
  • Private Internet Access: This VPN also has a no-logs policy and offers advanced features like a kill switch, which cuts your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, and split tunneling, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN.

Streaming and Torrenting

  • Mysterium: It can unblock some streaming services, but its performance can be inconsistent due to the nature of its network. Torrenting is generally allowed.
  • Private Internet Access Excels at unblocking streaming services like Netflix and is an excellent choice for torrenting. It offers port forwarding, which can improve torrenting speeds.

Speed and Performance

  • Mysterium: Speeds can vary depending on the available nodes in the network. You might experience slower speeds, especially during peak hours.
  • Private Internet Access generally offers fast and reliable speeds, thanks to its extensive server network and optimized protocols like WireGuard.

Ease of Use

  • Mysterium: The interface is simple, but setting it up can be more involved because it requires cryptocurrency.
  • Private Internet Access: Offers user-friendly apps for all major platforms, making connecting and getting started easy.
Mysterium VPN

Customer Support

  • Mysterium: Provides support through email and a knowledge base.
  • Private Internet Access: Offers 24/7 live chat support, which can be helpful for quick solutions.

While Mysterium and Private Internet Access offer firm VPN services, PIA generally provides a more well-rounded experience.

However, Mysterium’s unique decentralized approach might appeal to users who prioritize anonymity and are comfortable using cryptocurrency.

Ultimately, your best VPN depends on your needs and priorities.

Try other options like NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN to find the perfect fit.

What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?

  • Free VPNs are rarely a good idea. They often have limited features, slow speeds, and questionable privacy practices. It’s worth investing in a reputable paid VPN service.
  • Consider your specific needs. Do you need a VPN for streaming, torrenting, or online gaming? Different VPNs excel in other areas.
  • Check the VPN’s logging policy. Ensure they have a clear no-logs policy to keep your online activity private.
  • Look for a VPN with a kill switch. This essential feature prevents your data from being exposed if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
  • Test the VPN before committing to a long-term plan. Most reputable VPNs offer a free trial or a money-back guarantee. This allows you to try the service risk-free and see if it meets your needs.
  • Read reviews and compare features. Don’t just go with the first VPN you find. Take the time to compare different options and see what actual users have to say.
  • Consider the VPN’s jurisdiction. Where the VPN provider is based can impact your privacy. Some countries have data retention laws that may require VPNs to hand over user data.
  • Pay attention to customer support. Choose a VPN with responsive customer support if you encounter any issues.
  • Think about the devices you’ll use. Ensure the VPN is compatible with all your devices and allows for simultaneous connections on multiple devices.
  • Look for a VPN with a wide range of server locations. This gives you more flexibility to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions.
  • Consider the VPN’s pricing and payment options. Choose a plan that fits your budget and offers flexible payment options.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you have any doubts, contact the VPN provider’s customer support for clarification.

Final Verdict (Our Pick)

So, which VPN reigns supreme? For us, it’s Private Internet Access.

It offers a fantastic combination of speed, security, and affordability. You get many features, and it’s super easy to use.

Whether you’re browsing on public Wi-Fi, streaming your favorite shows, or torrenting, PIA has you covered.

While Mysterium VPN has unique advantages with its unusual routing and anonymity focus, PIA provides a more polished and reliable experience overall.

We’ve been using and reviewing VPNs for years, so you can trust our judgment.

Private Internet Access is the way to go if you’re looking for a top-notch VPN that won’t break the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mysterium VPN or Private Internet Access better?

Let’s compare! While both are solid VPNs, Private Internet Access generally provides a more polished and user-friendly experience with faster speeds and better streaming capabilities. However, Mysterium VPN offers unique advantages for users who prioritize privacy and anonymity. This software comparison will help you decide which one is best for you.

How do these VPNs compare in terms of online privacy?

Let’s compare their privacy policies side by side! Both VPN service providers offer strong security features and no-logs policies. Mysterium VPN offers additional privacy due to its decentralized network, while Private Internet Access provides a kill switch and split tunneling for enhanced online security.

Can I use these VPNs on all my devices?

Yes! Both VPNs have apps for various devices, including computers, smartphones, and TVs. You can use them to protect your internet traffic and enjoy online freedom on your preferred devices.

What are the pricing plans for Mysterium VPN and Private Internet Access?

Compare software prices! Mysterium uses a pay-as-you-go system with cryptocurrency. Private Internet Access offers more traditional subscriptions, with the best value being their 3-year plan at just $2.03/month. Compare Mysterium VPN vs Private Internet Access based on pricing plans to determine which suits your budget.

How can I decide whether Mysterium VPN or Private Internet Access fits my needs?

To make the best choice, consider your priorities. If you value speed and streaming, PIA is a strong contender. If anonymity and a decentralized network are more important, Mysterium might be a better fit. You can also check out other options like Surfshark VPN to see the results. This software comparison between Mysterium VPN and Private Internet Access is based on our experience and user reviews to help you decide whether Mysterium VPN or Private Internet Access fits your needs.

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