Mullvad vs Norton VPN
Mullvad and Norton VPN represent two very different VPN philosophies. Mullvad prioritizes absolute anonymity and fixed, simple pricing above all else. Norton VPN focuses more on ease of use, integrated security protections, and smooth streaming access. Your choice depends entirely on whether you value privacy purity or general utility.
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.
Trusted VPN security built for peace of mind.
We find Norton VPN highly effective primarily because it is bundled within a robust, trusted security platform. Its core privacy features are strong and reliable, ensuring protection even for less tech-savvy users. Overall, we recommend Norton for users prioritizing comprehensive security over purely specialized VPN usage.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Norton's comprehensive security suite (360/LifeLock).
- Includes advanced privacy tools (Double VPN, Kill Switch, IP Rotation).
- User-friendly interface, operating effectively in the background.
- Highly reliable performance praised by long-term users.
Cons
- High annual renewal costs are frequently criticized by users.
- Loyalty discounts or reward systems appear insufficient.
- The core VPN product is primarily tied to expensive security bundles.
- Occasional reports of excessive notifications or pop-ups.
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. 💡
AboutNorton VPN
Norton VPN is an easy-to-use virtual private network designed for both speed and protection. It creates an encrypted tunnel for your online activity, securing your sensitive data. This reliable connection ensures your privacy wherever you browse, even on unsafe public Wi-Fi. It’s an ideal solution for accessing content globally while maintaining your private life with a strict no-log policy. ✅
Highlights
Feature Comparison
Features Overview
We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.
Anonymity & Signup
Mullvad is the privacy champion; Norton VPN requires standard personal data.
Mullvad requires zero personal data; you only generate a unique account number. This ensures true anonymity from the very first step. Mullvad also accepts payments via cash or Monero for maximum privacy. Norton VPN requires standard registration, including personal and payment information. While Norton VPN maintains a strict no-log policy, the initial signup process is not anonymous. For users demanding absolute privacy separation, Mullvad offers the superior experience. Norton VPN emphasizes convenience and ease of access over specialized anonymity methods.
Pricing Structure
Mullvad offers fixed simplicity; Norton VPN uses tiered, higher renewal costs.
Mullvad uses a remarkably simple, fixed rate of €5 per month. This price has remained unchanged since 2009. You pay for time, not data, offering completely predictable and transparent budgeting. Norton VPN uses tiered plans with low introductory rates that can renew significantly higher. Their overall range is wide, making long-term cost estimation more complicated. Mullvad is a dream for budgeting simplicity because there are no renewal surprises. Norton VPN requires careful monitoring of annual renewal rates to avoid unexpected costs.
Streaming Access
Norton VPN is optimized for streaming; Mullvad IPs are often blocked.
Mullvad's IP addresses are frequently blocked by major streaming services and sites like Google. This limits entertainment usage for geo-restricted content like Netflix or Hulu. Norton VPN is specifically optimized for smooth cross-border streaming access. Support includes Smart TV apps for platforms like Apple TV and Google TV. If accessing geo-blocked streaming services is critical, Norton VPN is the definite choice. Mullvad focuses on raw privacy performance and ignores unblocking commercial streaming sites.
Security Features
Norton VPN has a comprehensive suite; Mullvad focuses on core VPN tunnel integrity.
Mullvad provides robust core VPN functionality and strong encryption using WireGuard. It offers a clean, straightforward toolkit focused solely on hiding the user's IP address. Norton VPN includes extensive extras like Double VPN, IP Rotation, and Ad Blocker. Their Plus plans package additional AI scam detection and malware protection. Norton VPN provides a richer security ecosystem perfect for users who want multi-layered protection. While Mullvad is secure, it lacks the integrated features found in the Norton VPN toolset.
Device Limit
Mullvad allows 5 connections; Norton VPN supports up to 10 devices.
Mullvad subscriptions allow concurrent usage on a fixed limit of five devices. This is sufficient for individual users or small households with standard needs. Norton VPN offers 5 devices on its standard tiers, but the Ultimate plan supports up to ten. This higher limit is excellent for large families or users with many gadgets. Norton VPN wins here by offering more coverage for digital-heavy households. If you are protecting more than five devices, Norton VPN is the only viable option.
Mobile Experience
Norton VPN has user-friendly apps; Mullvad requires workarounds on mobile.
Mullvad users report friction and difficulty with mobile usage on key operating systems. Some users require manual configuration instead of dedicated, seamless apps. Norton VPN offers dedicated, user-friendly applications across iOS, Android, and smart TVs. Its setup and connection process is optimized for quick, one-click mobile use. For everyday use on phones and tablets, Norton VPN ensures a modern, hassle-free experience. Mullvad's focus on base privacy sometimes sacrifices mobile convenience and app polish.
Our Verdict
Choosing between Mullvad and Norton VPN means picking between privacy purity and consumer utility. If absolute anonymity is your highest priority, Mullvad is the clear winner. However, Norton VPN integrates comprehensive features that make daily life easier for most families. Mullvad excels because of its radical commitment to data privacy protection. You register using only an account number, never an email or name. Mullvad offers fixed €5/month pricing, unchanged since 2009. Speed and trust and the ability to pay with cash are the superpowers of Mullvad. Norton VPN is the better choice if streaming is important to your household. Norton VPN optimizes its servers for smooth cross-border access and supports Smart TV viewing. Plus, Norton VPN protects up to 10 devices, double Mullvad’s limit. Its security suite includes Double VPN and proactive malware protection. The deciding factor is simple: Are you streaming or shielding? Mullvad is essential for hardcore privacy advocates and anonymous payments. Norton VPN provides better day-to-day usability for families and entertainment consumption. Norton VPN also offers a strong 60-day money-back guarantee. If you want predictable cost and total anonymity, choose Mullvad. If you want seamless streaming across 10 devices and robust integrated security features, Norton VPN is your platform. Both offer fast service, but their primary security goals differ significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mullvad or Norton VPN: Which is better for streaming content?
Norton VPN is much better for streaming and geo-unblocking. It actively optimizes for cross-border streaming and supports Smart TVs. Mullvad’s IPs are often blocked by major platforms like Netflix and YouTube.
Can I pay anonymously with Mullvad or Norton VPN?
Yes, you can pay anonymously with Mullvad using cash or cryptocurrency, receiving a 10% discount with crypto. Norton VPN requires standard payment methods at registration. Mullvad offers true purchase anonymity.
Which VPN is better for protecting a large family with many devices?
Norton VPN is better for large families and many devices. Mullvad is capped at 5 devices per account. Norton VPN’s Ultimate plan supports concurrent protection for up to 10 devices.
Is Mullvad's flat-rate pricing cheaper than Norton VPN's plans?
Mullvad's €5/month rate is fixed and stable long-term. Norton VPN often looks cheaper initially, but its renewal pricing and tiered structure often make it more expensive overall.
Why does Mullvad have better user reviews than Norton VPN?
Mullvad earns high praise due to its extreme commitment to privacy and fixed, ethical pricing. Norton VPN reviews sometimes cite confusion or frustration with high recurring renewal costs.
Does Norton VPN offer the same level of anonymity as Mullvad?
No. Mullvad achieves the highest anonymity by only requiring an account number for signup. Norton VPN requires standard personal and payment details to start service.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.