NordVPN vs PIA (Private Internet Access) in 2025: which one is better?

NordVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA) are two of the most reputable VPN services available. Both offer no-logs policies, military-grade encryption, and thousands of servers for safe and anonymous browsing. However, PIA is ideal for budget-conscious users thanks to its affordable plans and open-source transparency, while NordVPN justifies its higher price with faster speeds, a broader server network, and advanced tools like Threat Protection.

To help you decide between Private Internet Access vs NordVPN, I, along with my VPNpro team, conducted in-house tests using both VPNs on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. We evaluated important factors like connection speeds, ease of use, security features, and access to geo-blocked content. In this article, I’ll provide a detailed comparison to help you determine which provider best meets your needs.

How much does PIA vs NordVPN cost

NordVPN prices range from $3.39/month to $14.99/month, while PIA VPN costs between $2.03/month and $11.95/month. However, both services offer reduced prices for longer subscriptions. In other words, the larger the subscription, the less you pay monthly. They also have similar subscription lengths - the shortest being a month and the longest two or three years.

Private Internet Access (PIA) is generally more affordable than NordVPN, with prices starting at around $2.03 per month for a 3-year plan, while NordVPN begins at approximately $3.39 per month for a 2-year plan. Therefore, PIA is a better choice for those prioritizing affordability.

It’s important to note that while NordVPN is a bit more expensive than PIA, it offers significantly more features. These include advanced options such as Double VPN servers, Obfuscated servers, and Onion over VPN servers. NordVPN also has a much larger server network and provides full support for Netflix and many other popular streaming services.

Additionally, both VPN services offer a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service before committing to the long-term. NordVPN and PIA sent me reminders before the end of my free trial. Furthermore, neither service required a reason when I requested a refund for my subscription. In both cases, I received my refund in less than three days.

NordVPN vs PIA speed test: which one is faster?

In testing out NordVPN vs Private Internet Access for speeds, I found that NordVPN was consistently faster in all locations. It kept a higher percentage of my original speed and delivered better overall download and upload performance than PIA.

Even though NordVPN uses a proprietary and enhanced version of Wireguard called NordLynx, for the tests, I opted for WireGuard tunneling protocol on both services. Here are my test results in more detail.

NordVPN speed test:

PIA speed test:

I tested the speeds in several server locations to check how distance affects performance. Firstly, I noticed that connecting in different states of the USA affects neither NordVPN nor PIA speeds at all. Both service providers performed well, ensuring lightning-fast speeds.

NordVPN maintained this performance even when I connected to servers far away from the USA. Whether I chose servers in Europe or Oceania, NordVPN retained 90% of the original speed on average.

Meanwhile, I didn’t get the same results with PIA. The outcome strongly depended on the distance, sometimes reaching a 25% difference in download speeds. Also, at best, PIA retained just around 70% of the original speed.

Key takeaway: In testing NordVPN vs PIA speeds, I found that NordVPN was consistently faster across all tested locations, maintaining about 90% of baseline internet speed. PIA, on the other hand, retained around 70%, showing less speed consistency.

How many servers do PIA and NordVPN have?

A huge network of servers is necessary to avoid overcrowding, secure better connectivity, and get access to a variety of geo-restricted content. When comparing NordVPN and PIA server networks, NordVPN has a clear advantage with a more extensive fleet and broader global coverage. NordVPN offers 7400+ servers across 118+ countries, while PIA covers 90 countries worldwide. The true count of PIA servers is unknown, but you can find on the Internet that it has over 35,000 servers. I’ve tried contacting PIA customer service regarding server count, but they couldn’t provide the exact number. This is unfortunate because it doesn’t deliver the transparency I am seeking.

NordVPN has a larger coverage of countries in regions like Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa compared to PIA. However, both VPN providers offer the same level of coverage in the Americas and Europe. PIA, on the other hand, stands out by offering servers in every US state. This can be seen as an advantage when dealing with state-level bans and other restrictions.

Key takeaway: Overall, both NordVPN and PIA are great options regarding server count. However, if you seek clarity and a confirmed bigger country selection, I recommend choosing NordVPN.

Is PIA better than NordVPN for streaming?

NordVPN is better than PIA because it offers greater speeds, more consistent connections, and most importantly, effortless bypassing of geo-restrictions for streaming. In contrast, PIA only managed to unblock a few platforms during my tests.

NordVPN easily accessed 10 out of 10 streaming platforms I tested. On top of unblocking Netflix US, I had no issues unblocking 15+ other Netflix libraries, including the UK, Canada, Japan, and others. I smoothly accessed Amazon Prime US and UK, just like most content-rich US services like Hulu, Max, YouTube TV, and Disney+. What impressed me the most was its prowess against BBC iPlayer and ITVX's notorious VPN detection systems.

PIA proved up to the task of unblocking Netflix (US and Netherlands), Hulu, YouTube TV and ESPN. However, all my attempts to access Prime, Max, Disney+, and DAZN proved unsuccessful. Neither could it fly under the radar of BBC iPlayer. No matter the UK server I chose, I just kept on getting the “BBC iPlayer doesn’t work with VPN” message.

Key takeaway: NordVPN is a winner when it comes to streaming. Although PIA delivers sufficient streaming speeds, it fails to bypass geo-blocks. NordVPN, on the other hand, punches through geo-walls effortlessly and unblocks a wide range of platforms.

Is PIA better than NordVPN for torrenting?

Both NordVPN and PIA are great options for torrenting. Peer-to-peer (P2P) enthusiasts frequently have to use torrenting VPNs because the file-sharing technology is usually restricted in some ways. For example, torrenting of copyrighted files is illegal in the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and most states in the European Union. NordVPN users will benefit from specialized P2P servers for improved download and upload speeds. Meanwhile, Private Internet Access can enable port forwarding to maximize performance.

The two providers also have some non-essential but nice-to-have features for torrenting. Specifically, these are split tunneling and free SOCKS5 proxies. The first allows users to limit VPN traffic to the torrent client and use the web as if nothing is out of the ordinary. Meanwhile, the proxy can be an alternative to a VPN connection or a bonus fail-safe.

Ultimately, NordVPN and Private Internet Access have some mild differences but are on par regarding torrenting.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN: which is more secure?

If security and privacy are your key requirements, NordVPN is the best option. While PIA has upgraded its privacy features considerably, NordVPN still offers more security features.

Both service providers use AES encryption, the gold standard in the VPN industry. NordVPN uses AES-256-CBC cipher with SHA-512 hash function. Meanwhile, PIA allows you to opt between AES-128-CBC with SHA-1 (default setting) and AES-256-CBC with SHA-2 (strong setting). I recommend choosing the latter. In addition, NordVPN and PIA share the same leak protection methods and RAM servers, which don’t store long-term information.

During the comparison, I noticed that NordVPN has two kill switches. One is an internet kill switch, which is found in many VPNs. It cuts off the entire internet connection if the VPN connection is lost. The second works on apps and terminates previously selected applications if the internet connection is lost.

NordVPN operates under the jurisdiction of Panama, which has no data retention laws. On the other hand, PIA is based in the US, a founding member of the Five Eyes alliance. It’s unfortunate because the country is known for its government collaboration with corporations to collect data about citizens. Plus, Kape Technologies acquired PIA, but it assured that privacy and security are still their number one priority.

NordVPN conducted multiple (five at the time of writing) independent audits of its zero-logs policy. I examined the Deloitte reports, and they all confirm NordVPN’s no-log policy, meaning it doesn’t collect users’ activity information. Conversely, PIA’s no-logs claims were tested via conventional audits and real life. First, Deloitte conducted an independent audit in 2022. But before that, authorities tapped the provider on two occasions to hand over data about suspects in criminal investigations. Thankfully, PIA had no relevant information to provide, thus proving it doesn’t store activity logs.

Key takeaway: NordVPN is the clear winner in the security category. While PIA offers flexible encryption and a proven no-logs policy, its US jurisdiction raises privacy concerns. NordVPN uses stronger default encryption and hashing, is based in privacy-friendly Panama, has multiple independent audits confirming its no-logs policy, and features two kill switches for better protection.

PIA vs NordVPN key features comparison

All VPN service providers protect your online traffic and hide your real location. However, one VPN may offer more relevant features than the other. So, I compared key features to see what differentiates NordVPN and PIA.

At first glance, NordVPN and Private Internet Access are on equal ground. Both offer the essentials for convenient video streaming, secure online browsing, and bypassing online censorship. However, the two include other goodies that can swing the pendulum in either direction. Naturally, I’ll only overview the features packaged with the basic VPN subscription plan and none of the bonus perks.

1. Smart DNS

Both NordVPN and PIA offer Smart DNS feature that helps bypass geographical restrictions. The only downside is that you miss out on encryption and IP masking.

While PIA has only smart DNS, NordVPN finessed this feature in its SmartPlay. DNS rerouting and additional IP addresses improve connection when you try to access certain websites. It allows you to bypass censorship and get access to geo-restricted content as different Netflix libraries.

2. Ad & malware blocker

NordVPN offers a basic Threat Protection tool, which acts as a malicious and phishing domain blocker. Meanwhile, with PIA, you get the PIA MACE tool, which blocks malicious domains and ads without needing browser extensions.

Such tools are necessary when the web is filled with various ads, nosy trackers, and debilitating malware. Secure VPN with the right tools blocks these nuisances and keeps you safe online. However, I offer to upgrade the NordVPN plan for Threat Protection Pro access for extra security. It will scan your downloaded files for malware while blocking ads and trackers in real time. Another excellent security perk is the Dark Web Monitor, which scours the net for leaks of your data.

Overall, NordVPN takes first place when comparing ad and malware blocker capabilities.

3. Split tunneling

NordVPN and PIA both offer the split tunneling feature. The difference is that NordVPN grants this ability for Windows, Android, and Android TV devices, while PIA limits split tunneling to just desktop and Android devices. However, PIA has marginally better customization options and permits adding IP addresses into the mix.

Split tunneling allows you to segment your VPN connection on a per-app or per-website basis. It means that only specific information goes through a secure VPN tunnel, while other bypass it and connects directly to the Internet.

4. Specialized servers

While NordVPN has a bunch of specialized servers in its pocket, PIA doesn’t split its server network into specialized categories. Instead, you have to enable MultiHop, obfuscation, and other perks in the settings menu.

The inclusion of specialized servers makes it easier for users to achieve certain goals, such as bypassing censorship or unlocking foreign content. Both NordVPN and PIA offer Double VPN, which strengthens the encryption with different exit and entry locations. Obfuscated servers help circumvent online censorship in restrictive networks, while P2P provides peak performance while downloading peer-to-peer files. Both service providers allow purchasing dedicated IPs so you can connect with exclusive IP addresses in your selected region. Finally, both NordVPN and PIA have Onion over VPN option, which provides extra security over your internet traffic.

Other features

Finally, each provider includes a few bonus features that deserve an honorary mention. For example, NordVPN has Meshnet, which allows file sharing and other collaborations between devices, a SOCKS5 proxy (an internet protocol that routes your traffic through a proxy server), and invisibility on LAN, which alerts users when connected to an unsafe network. Private Internet Access also adds a SOCKS5 proxy, plus Shadowsocks (a proxy that allows bypass firewalls) and port forwarding.

NordVPN vs Private Internet Access device compatibility

Both NordVPN and PIA have impressive selections of apps, browser extensions, and manual configuration options that are easy to set up for both newbies and VPN experts alike.

The key difference is that NordVPN has 10 simultaneous connections, while PIA offers unlimited simultaneous connections. On the other hand, they both work with major dedicated apps such as Windows, Mac, and Android. NordVPN and PIA are compatible with Android TVs and Amazon Fire devices, so the only difference I could notice was the service providers’ performance. NordVPN was overall faster and provided better connectivity for these apps than PIA.

Are NordVPN and PIA working in China?

When it comes to overcoming internet censorship in strict regions like China and Russia, NordVPN is a better choice than PIA. NordVPN’s obfuscated servers are specifically designed to bypass geographical restrictions and strong firewalls, such as the Great Firewall of China. Plus, they hide the fact that you’re using a VPN at all, making it harder for the Chinese Government to catch you.

Censorship-heavy countries use DPI (Deep Packet Inspection) technology to detect and limit virtual private networks. To combat this, you need exceptional features for bypassing VPN blocks, commonly referred to as Stealth VPN. NordVPN has two such features – obfuscated and Onion over VPN servers. Private Internet Access grants a Shadowsocks proxy, which is adequate but not as reliable.

Additionally, NordVPN is the best VPN for China because it has more server locations in Asia than PIA. This means that Chinese citizens can easily find servers in neighboring countries, such as Hong Kong, Japan, or Mongolia. While PIA has servers in Asia, all of them are virtual. This has a slight downside because physical servers can be more stable and faster. So, if you want a reliable service that works constantly, NordVPN for China is a good pick.

Customer support

If you ever need to contact customer support, both NordVPN and PIA provide excellent options, such as 24/7 live chat, email, guides, and informative FAQs. Since both providers differ little in this area, I tested the effectiveness of their customer support firsthand.

I found NordVPN FAQs and knowledgbase very informative, covering all the common questions that can arise for a new customer. The layout and navigation were slightly better and more intuitive than on PIA’s page.

The live chat option was also more pleasant with NordVPN than with PIA. I asked how to connect my smart TV to their VPN, and their answer was fast, informative, and polite. Meanwhile, with PIA, the response times were inconsistent. Some inquiries were resolved immediately, while for others, I had to wait. Also, they didn’t want to disclose the server number. However, they explained that new servers are added and old ones are removed constantly, so the number is ever-changing.

In the end, I was more satisfied with NordVPN’s communication and customer service.

NordVPN vs PIA: Reddit users’ opinion

Potential customers frequently visit Reddit to get some unbiased feedback before purchasing items or services. I also looked into the comments and threads, searching for the Reddit users’ opinions on NordVPN and PIA.

Unsurprisingly, I was able to find fans of either service on the website. While people don’t necessarily compare NordVPN to Private Internet Access, I noticed differences in their comments. NordVPN users stress the service provider’s consistency, reliability, and speed, reminding others that it’s as good as advertised. Meanwhile, PIA customers stay loyal for a long period of time despite PIA not being as popular as other VPNs recommended by Reddit.

Final verdict: Which is better, NordVPN or Private Internet Access?

NordVPN and Private Internet Access are legitimate premium VPNs with a lot of similarities in terms of encryption protocols, privacy policies, and user-friendly interface. After in-house testing, I’ve determined that they are both optimal for users looking to enhance their online security, bypass geographical restrictions, and maintain anonymity. Nevertheless, NordVPN has the edge over Private Internet Access due to its faster speeds, larger server network, and better performance with streaming services.

Key differences between NordVPN and Private Internet Access:

• PIA is cheaper than NordVPN. Starting at just $2.03/month, PIA offers a more affordable VPN option compared to NordVPN’s $3.39/month pricing.
• NordVPN has more servers and locations worldwide. With over 7400 servers in 118 countries, NordVPN provides broader global coverage, while PIA has unclear number of servers in 90 countries.
• NordVPN delivers faster speeds and better performance. It maintains about 90% of your baseline internet speed on average, providing smooth browsing and streaming, whereas PIA maintains around 70%, which may cause slower connections.
• PIA supports unlimited device connections. Unlike NordVPN, which limits connections to 10 devices, PIA lets you secure all your devices simultaneously under one account.
• NordVPN is better for streaming. Its faster speeds and superior ability to unblock popular streaming platforms help you enjoy buffer-free access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more.
• Both VPNs provide robust privacy and security. NordVPN’s Panama jurisdiction and additional privacy features give it a slight advantage, but PIA also offers strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy.
• Both NordVPN and PIA offer strong torrenting support. They provide essential features such as no-logs policies and port forwarding to ensure safe, fast, and private P2P file sharing.

After careful comparison and in-house testing, NordVPN stood out as the better option than PIA. Even though it costs slightly more than the opponent, the service goes above and beyond regarding digital security, content unblocking, and connection performance. Meanwhile, PIA is great for those on a budget but seeking a premium service.

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FAQ

Is NordVPN safe in 2025?

Yes, NordVPN is perfectly safe in 2025. Its no-logs policy has been audited multiple times to ensure that unnecessary user data isn’t stored or shared with anyone. Additionally, the VPN has plenty of security features against ads, viruses, and online surveillance.

Who owns Private Internet Access?

Kape Technologies, formerly Crossrider, acquired Private Internet Access in 2019. The same company also owns CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, and Zenmate. Some users don’t trust this conglomerate for such monopolistic ownership of so many VPN services.

Is PIA better than NordVPN for gaming?

NordVPN is better than PIA for gaming because of its faster speeds and better server connection. While various factors influence speeds and connectivity, NordVPN retains constant performance without speed loss, lagging, or other issues.

Which is better for Gluetun, NordVPN or PIA?

For Gluetun, NordVPN is generally the better choice due to its larger server network, stronger security features, and faster speeds. It also offers better support for streaming and torrenting. However, PIA is more affordable and provides excellent privacy with a strict no-logs policy. If cost is a priority, PIA is a solid option, but NordVPN is better for overall performance and reliability.

Is PIA faster than NordVPN?

No, NordVPN is much faster than PIA. Its average download speed is 486 Mbps, and its average upload speed is 459 Mbps, compared to PIA’s 293 Mbps download and 266 Mbps upload speeds. That makes NordVPN nearly twice as fast as PIA.

How much do the Private Internet Access and NordVPN cost?

Private Internet Access and NordVPN costs vary depending on the plan you choose. The cheapest PIA subscription is $2.03/month for a 3-year plan, while NordVPN costs $3.39/month with a two-year commitment. A regular one-month plan for PIA costs $11.95/month, as for NordVPN it is $12.99/month.