Best VPN? Compare NordVPN vs Private Internet Access

If you’re trying to choose between NordVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA), you’re probably asking yourself one of three things:

• Which one is faster?
• Which one is safer?
• And which one gives you the most bang for your buck?

Well, we’ve tested both extensively across multiple platforms, servers, and real-world use cases. The result? A detailed, no-BS breakdown that’ll help you make the right decision—based on facts, not marketing.

Let’s get into it.

1. Quick Overview: NordVPN vs PIA

2. Speed & Performance: Who’s Really Faster?

Let’s start with one of the biggest deal-breakers: speed.

VPN Protocols

Both VPNs support modern tunneling protocols:

• PIA: WireGuard + OpenVPN
• NordVPN: WireGuard-based NordLynx + OpenVPN

NordLynx isn’t just a rebrand—it’s optimized for speed and privacy with double NAT technology. In our tests, it consistently beat standard WireGuard implementations.

Speed Test Results (on a 500 Mbps line)

PIA was solid, but NordVPN delivered faster and more consistent speeds—especially on long-distance connections. This matters for streaming, gaming, and large downloads.

🏆 Winner: NordVPN
Better long-distance speed, less lag, and more stable performance.

3. Security & Encryption: Who Keeps You Safer?

Both VPNs protect your traffic with AES-256 encryption, which is military-grade and practically uncrackable. But there’s more to VPN security than encryption.

Shared Features

• Kill Switch: Both offer reliable kill switches
• DNS & IP Leak Protection: Verified for both
• RAM-Only Servers: Yes, on both sides

Key Differences

NordVPN’s Threat Protection scans downloads for malware and blocks phishing—like a built-in antivirus. PIA’s MACE is simpler and only works when you’re connected.

And NordVPN is one of the first to adopt post-quantum encryption, which protects you from future quantum-based decryption threats.

🏆 Winner: NordVPN
More proactive and advanced—especially for high-risk users.

4. Privacy & No-Logs Policy: Who Can You Actually Trust?

You can’t talk about VPNs without talking about privacy. So, which service respects yours more?

Jurisdiction

• NordVPN is based in Panama
  • ✅ Outside 5/9/14 Eyes
  • ❌ No data retention laws
  • 🛡️ Ideal legal environment for a privacy-focused VPN
• PIA is based in the United States
  • ❌ Member of the Five Eyes Alliance
  • ❌ Subject to surveillance laws (Patriot Act, etc.)

At first glance, PIA’s jurisdiction looks like a red flag. But…

Proven in Court

Here’s the twist: PIA has been subpoenaed multiple times by US courts—and every time, it had no data to hand over. Why? Because it doesn’t log.

That’s powerful.

Audits & Transparency

🤝 Winner: Tie
NordVPN has the better legal jurisdiction, but PIA has proven its no-logs claim in real-life court cases. It’s a philosophical split: law vs action.

5. Streaming & Unblocking: Who Unlocks More Content?

A big reason people use VPNs is to stream geo-blocked content like U.S. Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or DAZN.

Streaming Tests: Netflix, BBC, Disney+, Max, DAZN

NordVPN’s SmartPlay tech automatically handles unblocking without needing special servers. PIA, on the other hand, sometimes struggles with tougher platforms like DAZN and Disney+.

4K Streaming Experience

Speed plays a big role in high-res streaming. With NordVPN’s faster global speeds, buffering was virtually non-existent—even with 4K streams. PIA was fine in most cases but showed slight dips on long-distance servers.

🏆 Winner: NordVPN
More consistent. More platforms. Less hassle.

6. Server Network: Bigger vs Smarter

Let’s break down the server network showdown.

Server Count & Coverage

PIA has a massive number of servers—more than any other provider on the market. But NordVPN offers broader geographic reach, which is key if you’re trying to get an IP in less common countries.

Specialized Servers

🏆 Winner: NordVPN
PIA’s raw volume is impressive, but NordVPN has a better-optimized and more versatile network—especially for bypassing firewalls and censorship.

7. Device Connections: How Many Can You Protect?

That’s right—PIA lets you connect unlimited devices under one account. No fine print.

🏆 Winner: Private Internet Access
Perfect for families, households, and tech junkies with 10+ devices.

8. Pricing & Refunds: Who Offers Better Value?

Here’s where PIA shines.

Plan Comparison

Both VPNs offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try risk-free.

What You Get

• NordVPN: Faster speeds, advanced security, and extras like password manager (NordPass) and file vault (NordLocker) in higher plans.
• PIA: Simpler, cheaper, and more flexible—especially for multi-device households.

🏆 Winner: Private Internet Access
If you’re price-sensitive or just want solid protection without bells and whistles—PIA nails the value.

9. Final Verdict: Which VPN Is Right for You?

Both NordVPN and Private Internet Access are top-tier services—but they’re built for different kinds of users. The better choice really comes down to what you care about most.

✅ Choose NordVPN if you want

• The fastest VPN speeds in real-world testing, ideal for streaming, gaming, and downloading
• Advanced security features like Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, Threat Protection Pro, and post-quantum encryption
• Reliable access to every streaming platform including tricky ones like DAZN and Max
• Privacy-first legal base in Panama (outside surveillance alliances)
• Modern, user-friendly apps for all devices
• Trusted brand with regular independent audits

🔒 Best for: Power users, frequent streamers, travelers, gamers, and anyone needing strong censorship-bypass tools

✅ Choose Private Internet Access if you want

• Unbeatable pricing—especially on long-term plans
• Unlimited device connections (protect every device in your home with one account)
• Court-proven no-logs policy, showing real-world privacy commitment
• Customizable, minimalist apps ideal for advanced users
• Transparency reports and a strong open-source reputation

💰 Best for: Budget-conscious users, large households, and privacy purists who don’t need advanced extras

10. Editor’s Pick: NordVPN Wins (But Just Barely)

If we had to crown an overall winner, NordVPN edges it out thanks to superior performance, security innovation, and wider streaming capabilities.

That said, PIA is still one of the best values on the VPN market. For many users—especially those who want unlimited devices and low-cost long-term protection—PIA is a smarter financial pick.

🛒 Try Them Risk-Free

Both services offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can test them yourself:

🔹 Get NordVPN – Up to 77% OFF
🔹 Get PIA – Save 83% on 2-Year Plan

FAQ for NordVPN vs PIA

Petr

I'm Petr, and the online world has been my playground for over 25 years. I build websites, run my own businesses, test new tools, explore what works (and what doesn’t), and share tips that save people time, money, and stress. On this site, you'll find no-nonsense articles, honest insights, and a dash of humor or irony. When I’m not behind the keyboard, I’m out chasing bike trails or discovering new golf courses. The rest of the time, you’ll find me on adventures with my wife and our two sons.

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