ClearVPN vs Mullvad
ClearVPN and Mullvad offer very different approaches to online security for users. ClearVPN focuses on user simplicity, speed, and modern interface design. Mullvad prioritizes radical anonymity and transparent, fixed pricing above all else. This comparison separates consumer convenience from absolute, uncompromising privacy.
Simple security hindered by operational friction.
We found ClearVPN delivers robust security features, like AES-256 encryption and a strict No-Logs policy, all wrapped in a sleek, simple interface. However, user feedback indicates high friction concerning connection reliability and inconsistent billing practices, particularly post-free trial. Overall, we recommend ClearVPN for its low cost and ease of use, but users should be prepared for potential technical hurdles and should closely monitor their subscription status.
Pros
- Extremely competitive annual pricing (effective $3.75 per month).
- Simple, modern user interface (UI) and easy installation process.
- Backed by a strict No-Logs policy and AES-256 encryption.
- Allows connectivity for up to six devices per account.
Cons
- Users report highly inconsistent connection reliability.
- Trial cancellation process is problematic; users report unauthorized charges.
- The 'shortcuts' connection method is often confusing and frustrating.
- Difficulty managing or updating subscriptions via the website.
Unmatched Privacy with Fixed Ethical Pricing
We admire Mullvad's radical transparency and ethical pricing structure, setting a benchmark for strictly privacy-focused VPNs. Overall, this service delivers exceptional speed and true anonymity, making it the top choice for discerning users who prioritize security over non-essential streaming access.
Pros
- True anonymity from day one (account number only, no personal data required).
- Remarkably simple, flat-rate pricing (€5/month) since 2009.
- Excellent speeds, high performance, and low latency using WireGuard.
- Supports flexible, privacy-focused payments (cash, crypto with 10% discount).
Cons
- Customer support response times are frequently reported as slow.
- Lack of dedicated, user-friendly apps for key mobile operating systems (iOS/Android).
- Inconsistent unblocking of major streaming services and often blocked by search engines.
AboutClearVPN
ClearVPN is an incredibly simple yet powerful VPN service. It’s the perfect choice for users who want to expand their digital horizons and achieve top-level protection without complexity. This app hides powerful technology behind a single button for a truly effortless experience. The eye-pleasing interface is simple and elegant, making your journey pleasant and smooth. You can also connect up to six devices per account. 💡
AboutMullvad
Mullvad VPN is a privacy service built to fight for a free and open internet. They strongly believe society improves when people have the right to privacy. The service works to prevent mass surveillance and censorship. By using a trustworthy VPN, you ensure your online behavior is not treated as a commodity. Mullvad VPN is perfect for anyone seeking a dependable and straightforward method to stabilize their digital freedom. 💡
Highlights
Feature Comparison
Features Overview
We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.
Account Anonymity
Mullvad requires zero personal data; ClearVPN needs typical sign-up details and payment info.
ClearVPN uses standard sign-up processes linked securely to payment methods. You get a sleek modern app but your identity is connected to the service. Users praise ClearVPN for easy installation and a simple UI. Mullvad achieves ultimate privacy requiring only a unique account number. You never provide an email, phone number, or name upon account creation. This stops the linkage of identity to your VPN usage. The core trade-off is absolute privacy versus convenience. Mullvad is built for people who cannot compromise on identity protection. Mullvad users can even pay anonymously via cash or crypto. ClearVPN is simpler to use day-to-day but cannot match Mullvad's radical commitment to user identity separation.
Pricing Structure
ClearVPN is cheapest annually; Mullvad features a globally fixed, simple monthly price.
ClearVPN provides the lowest cost with its competitive annual pricing structure. The annual plan costs $44.99, an impressively low effective $3.75 per month. The standard monthly rate is $9.99. Mullvad maintains a simple flat rate of €5 per month since 2009. The price never changes based on subscription length or future inflation. They also offer a 10% crypto discount. ClearVPN dominates on annual price savings in USD. Mullvad offers stability and unparalleled pricing transparency and honesty unmatched by competitors. If budget certainty is key, Mullvad excels. However, users must commit to ClearVPN for a year to realize the best pricing, losing the flexibility Mullvad offers.
User Interface & Experience
ClearVPN is focused on elegant, one-tap simplicity; Mullvad is functional but less refined.
ClearVPN is designed for effortless protection, hiding powerful technology behind a single button. It features an elegant, eye-pleasing interface, suitable for VPN beginners. ClearVPN includes Smart Hashtags to simplify server selection based on use cases like finding discounts. Mullvad’s client is simple and highly functional, prioritizing performance over visual polish. External reviews highlight potential friction points on mobile devices, sometimes requiring manual configuration and workarounds. ClearVPN is the clear winner for users prioritizing a smooth, modern, and easily navigable application experience. Mullvad suits users valuing minimalist performance over graphical aesthetic features.
Streaming & Geo-Bypassing
ClearVPN is optimized for streaming; Mullvad is frequently blocked by entertainment services.
ClearVPN explicitly supports unlimited streaming and geo-location changes in a single tap. It uses intelligent protocol selection tailored to successfully bypass geo-restrictions. ClearVPN is a strong tool for international content consumption. Mullvad's core mission centers on deep privacy, not entertainment usability. External reports indicate Mullvad's IP addresses are frequently blocked by services like Netflix, YouTube, and even Google search results. If accessing international content is important, ClearVPN provides a reliable experience. Mullvad users should expect friction and inconsistency when attempting to stream content regularly.
Trust and Reliability
Mullvad has stellar privacy marks; ClearVPN has billing issues despite strong core security.
Mullvad has an excellent reputation for radical transparency and extreme adherence to privacy. Their simple flat rate and anonymity-focused sign-up build tremendous user trust. Mullvad has maintained consistent operation for years. ClearVPN, developed by MacPaw, has strict core security (No-Logs). However, user reviews highlight recurring problems with inconsistent connection reliability and unauthorized charges after trial cancellation. Mullvad's consistent delivery and transparent subscription handling create superior reliability. ClearVPN's reported operational friction and billing issues damage user trust significantly.
Payment Flexibility
Mullvad supports cash and crypto payments; ClearVPN uses standard payment processors.
Mullvad offers extraordinary payment flexibility designed around anonymity. They accept physical cash sent via mail and major cryptocurrencies like Monero. Utilizing crypto earns users a substantial 10% discount on the fixed price. ClearVPN primarily relies on standard digital payment methods linking the payment to a personal identity. This is convenient but lacks the separation Mullvad provides. For users prioritizing financial privacy and transaction separation, Mullvad offers essential anonymity tools ClearVPN lacks. ClearVPN is adequate for standard digital banking users.
Free Trial Access
ClearVPN offers a true 3-day trial; Mullvad offers no trial but a money-back period instead.
ClearVPN provides a 3-day free trial giving users access to all Premium features immediately. Users can fully test speed and functionality before any financial commitment. Mullvad explicitly avoids free plans, stating they cost consumers time or data, so there is no trial. They instead offer a 14-day money-back guarantee (MBG). Having a risk-free trial is a major convenience for testing performance, giving ClearVPN an organizational edge. However, users should be cautious due to ClearVPN's reported billing issues after trial cancellation.
Our Verdict
This comparison pits modern convenience and speed against uncompromising privacy and consistency. Choosing between ClearVPN and Mullvad depends entirely on your primary goal. Mullvad sets the benchmark for trust and anonymity for VPN enthusiasts and security seekers. ClearVPN shines if speed, a modern interface, and easy geo-bypassing are your priorities. ClearVPN offers a budget-friendly annual rate of $3.75 per month and supports six devices. However, beware of ClearVPN's reported inconsistent connection or potential billing issues post-trial. Mullvad provides unparalleled privacy with its anonymous account number system—no email needed ever. Mullvad's fixed price of €5/month, maintained since 2009, guarantees long-term budget stability. Unlike ClearVPN, Mullvad offers anonymous cash and crypto payment options. The deciding factor is trust versus consumer convenience. If you need a reliable, ethically sound service and prize extreme anonymity, choose Mullvad. If you prioritize streaming, speed, and a simple, polished UI, ClearVPN fits your needs. Final Verdict: Pick Mullvad if you fear surveillance or require deep anonymity features. Choose ClearVPN if you need a polished, low-cost VPN primarily for accessing geo-blocked content like international streaming services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which VPN is better for streaming, ClearVPN or Mullvad?
ClearVPN is explicitly optimized for unlimited streaming and geo-bypassing successfully. Reports indicate Mullvad's IPs are often recognized and blocked by major streaming platforms. If entertainment is your focus, choose ClearVPN for better results.
Does Mullvad's anonymity feature cost more than ClearVPN?
Mullvad costs a flat €5 per month for everyone, prioritizing transparency and simple pricing. ClearVPN is cheaper only if you commit to the annual plan ($3.75/month effective). Mullvad offers superior privacy features regardless of the price point.
How many devices can ClearVPN and Mullvad protect with one account?
ClearVPN allows you to connect up to six devices simultaneously per account. Mullvad supports concurrent usage on up to five devices under its single account number. ClearVPN provides slightly wider device coverage for large households.
I want to pay anonymously. Which service should I use: ClearVPN or Mullvad?
Mullvad is the only choice for private, anonymous payment methods. Mullvad accepts major cryptocurrencies with a 10% discount, and even physical cash mailed to their office. ClearVPN only supports standard linked digital payments.
Why does ClearVPN have a lower user satisfaction rating than Mullvad?
While ClearVPN has a slick UI, user reviews cite issues with connection reliability and unexpected charges after using the free trial. Mullvad receives high marks for its trust, ethical pricing, and performance integrity, leading to a much higher user rating.
Does Mullvad offer a free trial like ClearVPN does?
ClearVPN provides a 3-day free trial to test all its premium features upfront. Mullvad does not offer any free trial, instead relying on a transparent 14-day money-back guarantee for all non-cash purchases.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.