Mullvad VPN isn’t a bad choice. It’s a low-cost option that keeps your privacy intact, unblocks Netflix, allows torrenting, and offers several interesting features. One of those is a privacy-focused search engine, Mullvad Leta. But even with all these solid benefits, there are several reasons for exploring the best Mullvad VPN alternatives.
Sure, Mullvad can compete with the industry giants, but it falls short in a few areas. For example, its customer support is disappointing, it doesn’t offer flexible pricing options, and we’ve found that it can struggle against tough geo-blocking. Oh, and let’s not forget the limited server network.
The good news is that there are plenty of VPNs out there that can improve on the provider’s offering. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best alternatives to Mullvad VPN to help you make the right choice.
Best Mullvad VPN Alternative: Our Experts’ Recommendations
To arrive at this shortlist, we weighed Mullvad VPN’s strengths (and weaknesses) against 40+ VPN services. Then, we curated the five providers that impressed the most across various factors. Ultimately, your choice comes down to your specific needs, of course.
Let’s dive in.
1. NordVPN
The best Mullvad VPN alternative and competitor of 2026 has a massive network comprising over 6,800 servers spanning 111 countries. That’s not just more than ten times Mullvad’s in terms of sheer size; it also offers more than double its country coverage. That means you have way more options for fast, stable connections wherever you are.
No other competitor unblocks as many Netflix libraries as NordVPN, the preferred VPN for Netflix users. But it offers much more than just Netflix access. In fact, connecting to NordVPN’s servers helps you bypass geo-restrictions on pretty much any streaming service. That includes BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Max. And because it’s the fastest provider around, you can be sure of stable connections, even if you’re streaming in 4K.
Switching to NordVPN won’t compromise your data, thanks to the provider’s extensive feature set and strong dedication to privacy. It scrambles network traffic with the same military-grade cipher as Mullvad and has even more advanced features. What’s more, NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy that has been audited multiple times.
NordVPN is also a superior option to Mullvad when it comes to device support. It has native apps for desktops, mobile devices, and popular streaming gadgets like Apple TV, Roku, and Fire Stick. Plus, with its Smart DNS feature, you can even use the VPN on devices without built-in support, like some smart TVs. Because it supports up to ten simultaneous connections, it’s a great choice if you have multiple devices.
Finally, its customer support is exceptional. You can get 24/7 assistance via live chat, and we found the support team to be responsive and resourceful.
2. ExpressVPN
If you’re looking for a lightweight Mullvad VPN alternative that’s super versatile and easy to use, you can’t do better than ExpressVPN. Your first impression would be the provider’s clean, clutter-free UI, which contrasts starkly with Mullvad VPN’s somewhat cramped style.
But there’s more. ExpressVPN’s network is not as extensive as NordVPN’s, but a collection of 3,000+ servers across 105 countries is way more than you get with Mullvad. That means a smaller chance of congested servers and broader streaming access.
Speaking of which, ExpressVPN unblocked every streaming service we threw at it during our tests. Consequently, you’re always within reach of a ton of ordinarily restricted content libraries. Plus, the streaming experience is stellar, with little to no buffering to worry about.
We found ExpressVPN to be a little light on advanced features compared to Mullvad VPN, but don’t think it skimps on your privacy. It uses the same encryption algorithms and packs all the essentials. On top of that, ExpressVPN has undergone more independent audits of its systems and privacy than any other provider.
ExpressVPN works with just about any device. Whether it’s your phone, laptop, streaming device, smart TV, or even your router, it has an app for that. You can connect up to eight devices at once to keep all your tech secure.
And if you ever need help? Its 24/7 live chat support is quick, friendly, and always there when you need it. To deepen your research, read the article comparing Mullvad to ExpressVPN. You won’t regret it.
3. Private Internet Access
PIA’s server pool blows away the competition. To put that into perspective, if you added Mullvad’s server collection to those of its best alternatives (bar PIA), the provider’s network would still be ahead.
Until recently, Private Internet Access was hit-and-miss for streaming. However, it’s been undergoing a series of upgrades and is now one of the best VPNs for streaming. In our latest tests, the provider successfully unlocked several Netflix libraries and even platforms it previously struggled with, like BBC iPlayer.
What’s more, it’s a VPN you can turn to when you want your browsing to stay private. Besides quarterly transparency reports, the provider has proven its no-logs stance through third-party audits and in court. Like Mullvad VPN, its VPN clients are open-source, which means just about anyone can view the source code.
While Mullvad edges PIA in terms of affordability, the latter has flexible pricing on its side. It also has more apps overall, with native clients available for devices like the Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire Stick. And there’s no device cap at all, a massive improvement on Mullvad VPN’s five-device allowance.
To top it off, you can contact support anytime to get help whenever you need it.
4. Proton VPN
Proton VPN is an excellent Mullvad VPN alternative if you’re looking for a different provider with its top-notch security and transparency. It was developed by the same team behind Proton Mail, which points to a strong commitment to protecting your data.
A combination of AES 256-bit encryption and a brimming toolkit of standard and advanced features ensures your sensitive information remains secure. Unsurprisingly, independent experts have verified its no-logs policy, so you can be sure it’s a trustworthy VPN that’s not tracking or storing your data.
Proton VPN doesn’t like to brag about its unblocking capabilities, but they are stellar just the same. It consistently unlocks exclusive streaming libraries with help from its vast network of 9,200+ servers in 112 countries.
Not only does Proton deliver excellent performance, but its VPN Accelerator feature can optimize your connection for faster speeds in unstable network situations.
Proton VPN has many apps across commonly used operating systems and allows up to ten simultaneous connections.
However, it’s important to note that the provider hasn’t added 24/7 customer support yet, so it may not be your ideal Mullvad VPN alternative if you consider around-the-clock assistance a priority. For a clearer overall perspective, note that we recently conducted an analysis of Proton VPN vs Mullvad.
5. Surfshark
Surfshark is a top budget-friendly VPN, packed with features, and doesn’t compromise security. It comes with over 3,000 servers in 100 countries, a solid network that easily beats Mullvard VPN in terms of options. That said, this is not the only reason why we consider it one of the best alternatives to Mullvad.
Surfshark’s unblocking prowess is a standout feature — even though, like Proton VPN, it doesn’t make a big deal of it. The provider consistently bypasses geo-restrictions on popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Max. Don’t worry about stuttering connections. Since upgrading its entire network to 10 Gbps servers, it delivers fast speeds for streaming, downloads, and online gaming.
There’s no compromise on privacy. AES 256-bit encryption shields your traffic from prying eyes, aided by a kill switch and other standard security features. However, we’re especially impressed by its collection of extras that includes features like Alternative ID, a masking tool for online anonymity.
One of Surfshark’s biggest advantages over Mullvad is its allowance for unlimited simultaneous connections. This is perfect if you have many devices or a household with multiple people needing protection at once. Plus, thanks to 24/7 live chat support, you can always get help whenever you need it.
Why the Best Mullvad VPN Alternatives Are Better
Mullvad VPN can be a sensible choice if you only browse casually and strictly need a VPN for privacy.
There’s probably no need to switch in that situation, especially considering the provider’s budget-friendly pricing and impressive commitment to transparency and privacy. However, you’ll quickly run up against its shortcomings when trying to access heavily geo-blocked websites, for example.
Let’s take a brief look at some areas where the best alternatives to Mullvad VPN can up your VPN experience.
Server Network
Mullvad VPN has a collection of around 640 servers dotted across 47 countries. Granted, many small providers offer fewer servers, but this network doesn’t stack up well against the best VPN services. For instance, NordVPN’s network is easily ten times that size.
While sheer size doesn’t always guarantee better performance, more is always better. A larger network means you can unlock content in more countries and have more options for bypassing geo-restrictions. On top of that, it reduces the chances of overcrowding and slowdowns.
Simultaneous Connections
Mullvad VPN allows you to connect a maximum of five devices to the VPN at once. That’s pretty much the industry average, so we wouldn’t exactly describe the provider as stingy. Still, it can be limiting if you have many gadgets.
Sure, the VPN has router support, but that’s not the most convenient solution for devices outside your local network, like those belonging to friends and family.
Many other VPNs, including our best Mullvad VPN alternatives, are increasingly extending their device allowances. A few have even removed a device cap altogether. You’ll find these providers more generous if you’re someone who likes to keep your smartphone, tablet, laptop, smart TV, and more all running on a secure connection at the same time.
Streaming
You may have to look elsewhere if you’re one of the many people who use a VPN for streaming. It masks your IP address well enough, but it looks like bypassing geo-restrictions is not a top priority.
Mullvad VPN managed to unblock a couple of Netflix libraries (failing to unblock many others) when we tried, but generally speaking, the results were spotty at best with many other popular streaming services. For instance, it failed to unblock BBC iPlayer while connected to a server in London.
Any of the VPNs discussed above will do significantly better in this area. For example, ExpressVPN unblocks pretty much any streaming service, as does NordVPN.
Customer Support
When you run into any issues while using Mullvad VPN, getting expert help could be a bit trickier than it should be, at least compared to bigger VPNs.
Granted, the provider’s resource base has self-help resources like a FAQs section and usage guides, and you can contact support through email. But that means you must find a solution or answer yourself or wait hours for it to arrive.
On the other hand, the best Mullvad VPN substitutes have live chat channels that allow you to contact support around the clock.
Support for Streaming Devices
Mullvad VPN has native apps for mainstream platforms, like Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. That said, although it’s not a major drawback, we find that Mullvad’s application, for example, is still far from being one of the best VPN apps compatible with Windows.
Unfortunately, streaming devices don’t enjoy the same attention, tying back to our earlier point that the provider doesn’t prioritize streaming.
There’s no VPN app for Apple TV, for example, and the same goes for Roku. And while you can install an apk app on your Fire Stick, the device doesn’t have a dedicated app. Conversely, the Mullvad VPN alternatives we’ve discussed have native apps for all these platforms.
Free VPNs vs Mullvad VPN
We don’t recommend using a free VPN as an alternative to Mullvad VPN. In fact, if it came down to choosing between the provider and even the best free VPN providers, we have to say it wins hands down in every area except cost.
Why?
For starters, free providers are extremely limited in many areas, like server network, speeds, and unblocking. While it lags behind its best alternatives in some of these areas, the provider is on another level compared to any free option out there. For example, Mullvad VPN’s 640+ servers are more than you can find on virtually any free VPN.
What’s more, many free providers cut corners when it comes to privacy and security. They may log your data for profit or lack essential features. In stark contrast, Mullvad VPN is a privacy-first option with independent audits to show for its really strict no-logs policy. Plus, it’s loaded with industry-standard and advanced features.
Final Thoughts
Mullvad VPN is a solid privacy protection option. No need to replace it if it meets your needs — an affordable, feature-packed VPN that focuses on delivering airtight privacy.
That said, maybe it’s time to switch to something else if you’re looking for more. In this article, we listed and explored VPNs that excel in those areas where the provider falls short. The best alternatives to Mullvad offer larger networks, faster connection speeds, superior unblocking, and broader compatibility. They also improve on the VPN’s disappointing customer support.
NordVPN sits at the top of this ranking of the top Mullvad competitors for plenty of good reasons.
Why not give it a go? You can do so risk-free, thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the service, you can claim a full refund. If you’re still unsure, check out the Mullvad vs NordVPN comparison.