FastVPN vs PIA VPN
FastVPN tempts users with incredibly steep introductory discounts and smooth 4K streaming access. PIA VPN prioritizes proven transparency, open-source apps, and unlimited device coverage on every plan. The choice pits massive upfront savings against premium, audited privacy features and overall trustworthiness.
Major Trust Issues and Billing Warnings
We note FastVPN offers attractive introductory rates and claims a strong no-log policy supported by a wide server network. However, we cannot overlook the severe and recurring user complaints regarding unauthorized charges and accounts frozen shortly after payment. Overall, we urge extreme caution when considering this provider due to major risks related to service reliability and immediate financial transparency.
Pros
- Highly competitive introductory pricing rates advertised.
- Strict no-log policy guarantees user anonymity.
- Claimed access to a large network of 2700+ servers.
- Known for fast connection speeds, according to some reports.
Cons
- Frequent reports of severe unauthorized credit card charges.
- Accounts may be frozen shortly after paying for the subscription.
- Customer service allegedly ignores or refuses cancellation requests.
- Users report requests for government ID verification after purchase.
Audited Privacy, Unbeatable Long-Term Value
We find Private Internet Access to be a robust, feature-rich VPN option backed by an independently verified No Logs policy and fully open-source applications. Overall, its strong commitment to user privacy, combined with its ultra-low introductory rates and unlimited simultaneous device support, makes it one of the better value propositions in the VPN market today.
Pros
- Strict No Logs policy is independently audited and court-proven.
- Supports an unlimited number of simultaneous device connections.
- All applications are 100% open source, promoting transparency.
- Access to NextGen servers located in 91 countries.
Cons
- No permanent free version or extended complimentary trial available.
- The introductory rate increases significantly upon renewal for the 1 Year plan.
- The standard monthly rate ($11.95) is relatively high.
AboutFastVPN
FastVPN is a straightforward way to keep your online life private and secure. Getting started with the service is easier than you might think. Downloading the VPN is one of the simplest ways to protect your data privacy.
It works by ensuring all your Internet traffic is encrypted. This simple step protects your private data, especially when you shop safely on public Wi-Fi. It also gives you the freedom to browse anonymously. We love the strict no-log policy 💡, which guarantees that your online activity is never tracked or logged.
AboutPIA VPN
PIA is a Virtual Private Network, which serves as a crucial cybersecurity tool. It provides a secure and encrypted internet connection, preventing others from intercepting your data. The service works by rerouting your traffic through private, remote servers, effectively masking your unique IP address in real-time. PIA is built for anyone seeking to regain digital privacy and enjoy secure browsing, whether at home or using public Wi-Fi. It’s simple to use and allows you to protect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously with one subscription. 💡
Highlights
Feature Comparison
Features Overview
We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.
Device Limit Policy
PIA VPN authorizes unlimited devices; FastVPN does not specify a limit at all.
FastVPN fails to explicitly list the maximum concurrent devices allowed per subscription, leaving high usage users uncertain. PIA VPN offers protection for unlimited devices, covering everything from phones to routers and Smart TVs. PIA VPN is the clear winner for protecting large households or multi-device individuals. If you plan to secure more than a few devices, PIA VPN guarantees coverage; FastVPN does not.
Privacy Trust & Audits
PIA VPN offers audited, verifiable security; FastVPN has an unverified no-logs claim.
FastVPN promises a strict no-logs policy to guarantee browsing anonymity and security. Verification of this policy is not provided in their materials. PIA VPN’s no-logs policy is audited by third parties and has been validated in court, proving its trustworthiness. The apps used by PIA VPN are 100% open-source, allowing anyone to inspect their security practices. For serious users, PIA VPN’s transparency is paramount; FastVPN relies only on promise.
Server Technology
FastVPN has more locations; PIA VPN uses faster 10Gbps NextGen server technology.
FastVPN offers access to 2700+ servers spread across more than 100 global locations. PIA VPN operates NextGen servers with a high 10Gbps capacity in 91 countries, focusing on speed. FastVPN provides a better geographic spread, reaching more niche locations globally. PIA VPN’s high-capacity servers ensure a fast experience, making it better for raw performance.
Streaming Focus
FastVPN guarantees 4K streaming access; PIA VPN provides powerful speeds for streaming.
FastVPN explicitly markets its custom-built network for smooth 4K streaming worldwide. This allows FastVPN users to access specific platforms like Netflix and Disney+ consistently. PIA VPN’s 10Gbps servers support high-quality streaming but do not guarantee content access as directly as FastVPN. If unblocking geo-restricted specific streaming sites is your main goal, FastVPN holds an edge.
Ad and Tracker Blocking
PIA VPN includes the MACE blocker; FastVPN lacks any dedicated security enhancement.
FastVPN focuses on encrypting traffic and securing Wi-Fi sessions but offers no ad-blocking capability. PIA VPN includes MACE, a powerful feature blocking ads, trackers, and malicious domains. MACE provides a superior layer of security and ensures a cleaner, less invasive browsing experience. PIA VPN users benefit significantly from MACE; FastVPN users must rely on external blocking tools.
Financial Risk
PIA VPN is financially stable; FastVPN has serious, documented user complaints about billing.
FastVPN has extensive reports of unauthorized credit card charges and demands for government ID verification after purchase. PIA VPN features clear pricing and a standard 30-day money-back process with no reported credit card fraud issues. The high financial risk associated with FastVPN makes it a dangerous option for vulnerable users. PIA VPN offers necessary peace of mind; FastVPN requires extreme caution upon subscription.
Our Verdict
The decision between FastVPN and PIA VPN hinges entirely on trust, scope, and reliability. PIA VPN is the overwhelming winner here for reliability, transparency, and unlimited device value. FastVPN offers an attractively low introductory price, but users face serious, documented financial risks upon subscribing. PIA VPN’s superpower is verifiable privacy reinforced by speed and device flexibility. PIA VPN provides unlimited device connections using proven open-source technology with audited no-logs policies. Plus, PIA VPN includes MACE to block ads and trackers automatically, ensuring a safer browsing experience. FastVPN’s core strength is its dedicated streaming focus complemented by a huge server count. FastVPN explicitly guarantees smooth 4K streaming access and can unblock services like Netflix using its massive server network of 2700+ servers. However, FastVPN lacks the advanced customization and transparency found in PIA VPN. Trustworthiness and full device coverage are the deciding factors for most people. If you need to secure many devices with proven, audited security, PIA VPN is the necessary, low-risk choice. Choose FastVPN only if you are willing to navigate serious billing issues for maximum short-term initial savings. Ultimately, PIA VPN is the superior choice for users needing secure, fast, and feature-rich VPN protection globally. FastVPN should only be considered if the introductory price is non-negotiable despite documented user complaints and warnings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which VPN is better for protecting a large family or household: FastVPN or PIA VPN?
PIA VPN is significantly better for large households. PIA VPN offers unlimited device support on one subscription, covering every connected device. FastVPN does not specify its maximum device limit, making it uncertain for high-usage users.
Does FastVPN offer the Multi-hop feature like PIA VPN?
No, FastVPN does not list advanced features like Multi-hop or Split Tunneling. PIA VPN offers Multi-hop via RAM-only servers for enhanced anonymity. PIA VPN provides a vastly superior set of advanced security tools.
Which is faster: FastVPN or PIA VPN?
PIA VPN is likely faster due to its NextGen server technology featuring 10Gbps capacity. FastVPN claims fast speeds and guaranteed 4K streaming access. For pure underlying speed technology, PIA VPN holds the measured advantage.
Can I trust FastVPN's no-logs policy more than PIA VPN's?
No, PIA VPN’s no-logs policy is more trustworthy because it has been independently audited and validated in court. FastVPN only makes a general no-logs policy claim. PIA VPN provides verifiable evidence for privacy advocates.
Which service is better for streaming Netflix abroad?
FastVPN makes stronger, more explicit claims about unblocking specific platforms like Netflix and Disney+ using dedicated servers. PIA VPN has fast speeds but does not explicitly guarantee unblocking specific streaming sites. FastVPN slightly edges out PIA VPN for the dedicated streamer.
Are there any financial warning signs for FastVPN or PIA VPN?
Yes, FastVPN has severe user complaints regarding unauthorized charges and frozen accounts after payment. PIA VPN has standard pricing and a clear 30-day money-back guarantee. Exercise extreme caution when paying for FastVPN.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.