Proton VPN vs Private Internet Access
Head-to-head comparison based on published specifications and independent benchmarks. Pricing and specs verified August 2026.
Winner: Proton VPN wins in 5 out of 7 categories
Category-by-Category
| Category | Proton VPN | Private Internet Access | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | 9.3 | vs | 8.8 |
| Privacy | 9.8 | vs | 9.2 |
| Streaming | 8.8 | vs | 8.5 |
| Security | 9.6 | vs | 9.0 |
| Price | from $2.99/mo | vs | from $2.03/mo |
| Servers | 20,000+ | vs | 10,000+ |
| Devices | 10 | vs | Unlimited |
Speed Comparison
Proton VPN has a -8% speed drop while Private Internet Access shows -12%. Proton VPN takes this category on reported speed figures. Speed data is based on independent benchmarks across multiple protocols and server locations, not our own testing.
Privacy Comparison
Proton VPN is based in Switzerland while Private Internet Access operates from USA. Proton VPN edges ahead in privacy with a stronger overall privacy profile. Scores are based on no-logs policies, audit history, jurisdiction, encryption standards, and leak protection.
Streaming Comparison
Proton VPN unblocks 5 streaming services while Private Internet Access unblocks 4. Proton VPN wins this category with more reliable streaming access across platforms. Streaming compatibility is evaluated across multiple platforms and server locations.
Security Comparison
Both Proton VPN and Private Internet Access offer AES-256 encryption and kill switch protection. Proton VPN scores higher in security due to additional features and infrastructure hardening. Security scores are based on encryption, protocol implementation, DNS/IP leak protection, kill switch reliability, and server infrastructure.
Full Specification Comparison
| Feature | Proton VPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN, Stealth | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-hop | Yes | No |
| Ad Blocker | Yes | Yes |
| Obfuscation | Stealth protocol | Multi-Hop obfuscation (Shadowsocks) |
| Fire TV App | Amazon Appstore | Amazon Appstore |
| Smart DNS | Not recorded | Smart DNS |
| Jurisdiction | Switzerland | USA |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited |
| Server Count | 20,000+ | 10,000+ |
| Country Count | 140+ | 90 |
| Speed Drop (reported) | -8% | -12% |
| Lowest Price | from $2.99/mo | from $2.03/mo |
| Plan Length | 2yr plan | 3yr + 3mo plan |
| Streaming Services | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Peacock, Paramount+ | Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime |