Norton VPN vs PIA VPN
Norton VPN is often bundled with a full security suite, while PIA VPN is a dedicated privacy powerhouse. PIA VPN wins easily on coverage, offering unlimited devices on one subscription. Norton VPN focuses more on bundled security features and streaming optimization for Smart TVs.
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.
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.
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. ✅
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 Coverage Limit
PIA VPN allows unlimited devices; Norton VPN limits coverage to 10 devices maximum.
Norton VPN restricts users to covering between 5 and 10 devices per subscription plan. This restriction might be tight for large households or users with many gadgets. PIA VPN offers incredible value by supporting an unlimited number of devices on one plan. If you need to protect every phone and tablet you own, PIA VPN is the clear choice.
Transparency & Trust
PIA VPN uses open-source apps and features audited no-logs claims for maximum trust.
PIA VPN boasts open-source applications, allowing anyone to inspect their code for security flaws. Its no-logs policy is independently audited and court-validated, ensuring high transparency. Norton VPN maintains a strict no-log policy and uses strong bank-grade encryption. However, Norton VPN does not publicly confirm open-source apps or external privacy audits. PIA VPN provides much stronger, verifiable trust for privacy advocates than Norton VPN.
Bundled Security
Norton VPN adds critical antivirus and anti-scam features; PIA VPN focuses solely on VPN utilities.
Norton VPN Plus plans bundle essential security tools like AI-powered scam detection. This includes real-time protection against malware and ransomware threats. PIA VPN’s security focuses squarely on the network tunnel and MACE ad/tracker blocking. Norton VPN is superior if you want an all-in-one antivirus and VPN security package.
Ad Blocking Power
PIA VPN’s MACE blocks ads, trackers, and malware; Norton VPN offers a simpler Ad Blocker.
PIA VPN features MACE, a powerful tool designed to block ads, malicious sites, and trackers effectively. This integrated protection delivers a cleaner and significantly more secure browsing session. Norton VPN includes a standard Ad Blocker feature to remove annoying visual advertisements. PIA VPN’s MACE capability goes further by addressing tracking and security with stronger action.
Streaming & TVs
Norton VPN optimizes streaming on Smart TVs; PIA VPN offers excellent speed but no optimization focus.
Norton VPN explicitly markets cross-border streaming optimization for smoother viewing. It provides native Smart TV apps for platforms like Apple TV and Google TV. PIA VPN’s 10Gbps NextGen servers are fast and ideal for high-quality streaming. But PIA VPN does not advertise specific tuning or optimization for streaming services. If media consumption on devices like your TV is key, Norton VPN’s specialization helps.
Server Infrastructure
PIA VPN uses 10Gbps NextGen servers for speed; Norton VPN guarantees connection to the fastest server.
PIA VPN operates ultra-fast NextGen servers with impressive 10Gbps network capacity across 91 countries. This infrastructure focus ensures low latency and reliable performance globally. Norton VPN automatically connects you swiftly to the fastest available server for convenience. While convenient, Norton VPN does not provide specific details on its underlying server capacity. PIA VPN wins the technical speed race with its high-capacity 10Gbps server network.
Money-Back Guarantee
Norton VPN provides a 60-day money-back guarantee, double the time offered by PIA VPN.
Norton VPN offers a very generous 60-day money-back guarantee on eligible subscription plans. This reduces risk and gives users extensive time to test its features fully. PIA VPN provides a reliable, industry-standard 30-day money-back guarantee. Norton VPN is clearly superior here, giving customers twice as long a testing window.
Our Verdict
Choosing between Norton VPN and PIA VPN means prioritizing features versus sheer value. Both VPNs offer strong privacy and encryption protocols, but they aim for different users. Norton VPN is best utilized as a complete, protective, all-in-one security suite. It bundles necessary features like AI scam detection, cloud backup, and malware protection in its Plus plan. Norton VPN also specializes in reliable, optimized streaming for TV devices, offering a smoother viewing experience. PIA VPN is the privacy specialist and the reigning king of device coverage. Its open-source apps and court-validated no-logs policy provide unmatched transparency and trust. Protecting unlimited devices with PIA VPN means significant cost savings for large families or small teams. Your device count is the biggest factor here. If you own many gadgets, PIA VPN's unlimited device coverage is unbeatable value. If you need integrated antivirus with great TV streaming support, Norton VPN is the stronger, more convenient bundle. Use PIA VPN for maximum transparency and device coverage; choose Norton VPN for an easier, all-in-one security solution with a 60-day guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for covering many devices: Norton VPN or PIA VPN?
PIA VPN is vastly superior here as it offers unlimited devices per subscription. Norton VPN limits coverage to a maximum of 10 devices, which may not be enough. PIA VPN provides better device coverage value per dollar.
Does Norton VPN offer dedicated IP like PIA VPN?
No, Norton VPN does not list a dedicated IP option for users. PIA VPN offers a dedicated IP as an optional add-on service. Dedicated IPs help reduce CAPTCHAs and improve stability for specific services.
Which VPN is better for streaming internationally?
Norton VPN has a slight edge because it specifically includes streaming optimization in its feature set. It also provides native apps for Apple TV and Google TV access. PIA VPN is fast, but it does not specialize in streaming optimization.
Is PIA VPN more transparent than Norton VPN?
Yes, PIA VPN is more transparent due to its open-source applications and audited no-logs policy. PIA VPN's no-logs claims have even been validated in court proceedings. Norton VPN promises privacy but lacks the same third-party validation.
Which has a better money-back guarantee: Norton VPN or PIA VPN?
Norton VPN provides a significantly better customer promise with a 60-day money-back guarantee. PIA VPN offers the standard 30-day guarantee. You get double the time to test Norton VPN risk-free.
Does Norton VPN include an antivirus solution built-in?
Yes, the Norton VPN Plus plan includes AI-powered scam detection and real-time malware protection. It also comes with the Virus Protection Promise. PIA VPN does not include any dedicated antivirus protection.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.