Private Internet Access vs NordVPN: Why PureVPN is Better in 2024?

Ensuring online privacy and security has become a pressing concern in our interconnected world. As cyber threats continue to escalate, virtual private networks (VPNs) have emerged as essential tools to safeguard our digital lives.

In our NordVPN vs Private Internet Access vs PureVPN comparison, we will thoroughly examine the three prominent VPN providers across categories like speed, features, etc. and uncover why PureVPN stands out as the superior choice.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Pricing 

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Monthly	Standard ($10.95), Plus ($16.95), Max ($20.95)	$11.95	Standard ($12.99), Plus ($13.99), Complete ($14.99)
1-year	Standard ($3.74/month), Plus ($5.82/month), Max ($6.24/month)	$3.33/month	Standard ($4.99/month), Plus ($5.99/month), Complete ($6.99/month)
2-year	Standard ($1.96/month), Plus ($3.21), Max ($3.85/month)	–	Standard ($3.49/month), Plus ($4.49/month), Complete ($5.49)

PureVPN follows a tier-based pricing structure. The tiers are categorized as Standard, Plus, and Max, having different features and pricing levels. Users can choose from monthly, 1-year, and 2-year plans within each tier.

The pricing structure of Private Internet Access is relatively simple, offering monthly and 1-year plans to choose from. While there is no 2-year plan, it does provide a 3-year plan as an alternative.

NordVPN offers three tiers: Standard, Plus, and Complete. These tiers are available in monthly, 1-year, and 2-year plans, each of which give you access to unique features. The pricing varies based on the tier and duration chosen.

Who tops this category? PureVPN because of its plan selection and affordability. NordVPN takes second.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Speed

Baseline speed: 2 Gbps

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Average download speeds	399 Mbps	325 Mbps	411 Mbps
Average upload speeds	372 Mbps	289 Mbps	396 Mbps

In a comprehensive test, the download and upload speeds of PureVPN, Private Internet Access, and NordVPN were measured while connecting to three countries – the US, UK, and Canada using WireGuard as the protocol.

For download speed, NordVPN demonstrated its prowess, delivering an impressive average speed of 411 Mbps. Close behind, PureVPN showcased a commendable performance with an average speed of 399 Mbps, while Private Internet Access secured a respectable 325 Mbps on average.

When it came to upload speed, NordVPN continued to shine, recording an average of 396 Mbps. PureVPN showcased a strong presence once again, with an average upload speed of 372 Mbps. Private Internet Access followed closely with an average of 289 Mbps.

Also Read: 9 Ways to Make Your VPN Faster

Who tops this category? NordVPN since it offers the fastest upload and download speeds, followed by PureVPN.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Server Locations

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Servers	6,000+	Undisclosed	5,700+
Countries	65	84	60

PureVPN stands strong with a staggering network of 6000+ servers spread across 65 countries, offering users a vast selection of global virtual locations for unmatched access to content and superior browsing speeds.

Private Internet Access takes pride in its widespread coverage, offering servers in an impressive 84 countries. While the exact number remains undisclosed, their commitment to delivering a vast network ensures users can enjoy reliable and secure connections.

NordVPN’s powerful network encompasses 5,700+ servers scattered across 60 countries, ensuring a formidable shield for online activities and granting users seamless access to content worldwide.

Who tops this category? PureVPN is first, NordVPN second, and Private Internet Access third given that its exact server count is undisclosed. 

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Security 

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Encryption used	AES 256-bit	AES 256-bit	AES 256-bit
Protocol selection	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, IPSec	OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPSec	OpenVPN, IKEv2, NordLynx
Private DNS	Yes	Yes	Yes
RAM-based servers	No	Yes	Yes
Quantum-resistant	Yes	Yes	No

PureVPN boasts robust security measures, employing AES 256-bit encryption. It lets you choose from a diverse range of protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and IPSec. While PureVPN uses its own network of DNS servers, it does not provide RAM-based servers. However, the VPN service is quantum-safe!

Private Internet Access offers AES 256-bit encryption to safeguard user data from potential threats. Users can pick from OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IPSec as their desired protocol option. With a private DNS network and the use of RAM-based servers, it minimizes the risk of data exposure. 

NordVPN provides strong security with its use of AES 256-bit encryption. Users can select from multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and NordLynx (based on WireGuard), allowing flexibility. NordVPN also routes your DNS queries through its private DNS and relies on RAM-based servers, enhancing data protection.

Who tops this category? It is a three-way tie! Both NordVPN and Private Internet Access have RAM-only servers, whereas PureVPN is the only VPN service to use quantum-resistant encryption keys.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Privacy

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Base of operation	British Virgin Islands	United States	Panama
Audited no-logs policy	Yes	Yes	Yes
Always on-audit	Yes	No	No

PureVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, ensuring a favorable privacy environment. It follows a Well known audit firm-audited no-logs policy, affirming that it does not retain user activity logs. What distinguishes PureVPN is its implementation of an always-on audit mechanism, providing an additional layer of transparency and accountability.

Private Internet Access operates from the USA, a part of the Five Eyes alliance, which raises privacy concerns for some users. However, PIA maintains an Deloitte-audited no-logs policy, assuring users that their online activities are not monitored or stored.

NordVPN maintains a strong stance on privacy with its headquarters in Panama, a country not affiliated with the 5/9/14 eyes alliances. It offers a PWC-audited no-logs policy, providing assurance that it does not store user activity logs. 

Who tops this category? PureVPN stands out due to its always-on audit structure, a first in the VPN industry.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Netflix and streaming performance

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Netflix	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hulu	Yes	No	Yes
Max	Yes	Yes	Yes
BBC iPlayer	Yes	No	No
Disney+	Yes	Yes	Yes

PureVPN boasts impressive unblocking capabilities, ensuring seamless access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Max, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. With a wide range of supported platforms, PureVPN lets users enjoy their favorite content without any geographical restrictions.

Private Internet Access shines in unlocking Netflix and Disney+, granting users access to a diverse range of shows and movies. While PIA doesn’t unblock Hulu or BBC iPlayer, its compatibility with Max offers an excellent option for streaming enthusiasts.

NordVPN emerges as a strong contender in unblocking Netflix, Hulu, Max, and Disney+, making it a go-to choice for binge-watchers. Although it doesn’t support BBC iPlayer, NordVPN’s versatility in unlocking major streaming services ensures a delightful streaming experience for its users.

Who tops this category? PureVPN as it excels at unblocking all major streaming services.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – P2P File Sharing

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
P2P-Friendly	Yes	Yes	Yes
P2P Support	Specialized P2P servers	All servers	Specialized P2P servers

PIA offers complete support for P2P file sharing on all its servers. Users can confidently engage in file transfers, benefiting from high-speed connections and the assurance that their activities remain private and protected. 

NordVPN allows users to engage in P2P activities by connecting to their dedicated P2P servers. These servers are designed to facilitate fast, secure, and throttle-free file sharing across all popular P2P platforms.

PureVPN offers specialized P2P servers, which are capable of handling large file transfers and ensure users enjoy fast speeds and robust security. However, the VPN service does not allow P2P where it is illegal.

Who tops this category? PureVPN is the superior P2P VPN because it also supports port forwarding. PIA is second, while NordVPN takes third.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Features 

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Kill Switch	Yes	Yes	Yes
Split Tunneling	Yes	Yes	Yes
Obfuscation	Yes	Yes	Yes
DNS Leak Protection	Yes	Yes	Yes
IPv6 Leak Protection	Yes	Yes	Yes
Dedicated IP	Yes	Yes	Yes
Port Forwarding	Yes	No	No

PureVPN offers impressive features with its 20 Gbps servers, providing fast and reliable connections, and VPN over Tor enhancing online anonymity. Additionally, PureVPN offers a range of bundled products like a password manager (PureKeep), file encrypter (PureEncrypt), and privacy auditor (PurePrivacy), which can be purchased alongside the VPN service.

Private Internet Access provides features like multi-hop to add an extra layer of encryption and MACE, which is an ad, tracker, and malware blocker. It also gives you access to an antivirus that scans, removes and destroys viruses from your system for an extra price.

NordVPN stands out with its diverse feature set, like SmartDNS for seamless streaming, Double VPN servers for added encryption layers, Onion over VPN for improved anonymity, and Threat Protection for safety against online threats. NordVPN also provides additional features such as a password manager, data breach scanner, and file encrypter, which can be added for an additional price.

Who tops this category? NordVPN thanks to its broad array of useful features.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Compatibility 

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Available apps	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Huawei, Android TV, Fire Stick	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick
Browser extensions	Chrome, Firefox, Edge	Chrome, Firefox, Edge	Chrome, Firefox, Edge
Multi-logins	10	Unlimited	6

PureVPN offers broad compatibility with easy-to-use apps for macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Huawei, Android TV, and Fire Stick. It also provides browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Supporting up to 10 simultaneous multi-logins, PureVPN allows users to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

Private internet Access supports macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick. If you are interested in browser extensions, PIA covers Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Unlike PureVPN and NordVPN, it offers unlimited logins with a single account. 

NordVPN is compatible with macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick, covering a wide range of devices. It has one-click browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. With support for up to 6 multi-logins, users can secure multiple devices with a single NordVPN account.

Who tops this category? Though PureVPN provides broader compatibility, Private Internet Access bags the first spot for its unlimited simultaneous connections.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Customer Support 

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Live chat	Yes	Yes	Yes
Email	Yes	Yes	Yes
Knowledgebase	Yes	Yes	Yes
In-app support	Yes	No	Yes

NordVPN and PureVPN offer live chat, email support, and a knowledge base, including in-app support. However, Private Internet Access lacks in-app support, although it provides live chat, email support, and a knowledge base.

Who tops this category? PureVPN and NordVPN are tied for first place.

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN vs PureVPN – Which is the Best?

	PureVPN	Private Internet Access	NordVPN
Pricing	1st	3rd	2nd
Speed	2nd	3rd	1st
Server locations	1st	3rd	2nd
Security	1st (Tie)	1st (Tie)	1st (Tie)
Privacy	1st	3rd	2nd
Unblocking	1st	3rd	2nd
Features	1st	3rd	1st
Compatibility	2nd	1st	3rd
Customer support	1st (Tie)	2nd	1st (Tie)

PureVPN is the best overall VPN as it performed well in the most number of categories, including pricing, security, server locations, security, privacy, unblocking, and customer support. NordVPN takes second due to its strong security, extensive feature set, and top-notch customer support. Private Internet Access is third because, even though it offers decent security and excellent compatibility, it lacks in many other areas.

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FAQs

Is Private Internet Access VPN trustworthy?

PIA has undergone independent audits to verify its no-log claims. In fact, it’s one of the few VPNs with a court-proven no-log policy, so you can trust it with your privacy.

Is PIA better than NordVPN?

No. While PIA is a good VPN service, NordVPN offers better connection speeds, security, features, and customer support. Furthermore, unlike PIA, NordVPN is based in the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of Panama.

Is Private Internet Access better than PureVPN?

Private Internet Access is a decent VPN provider, but PureVPN outperforms it in many areas like streaming capabilities, privacy protection, and performance.