Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access provides secure, encrypted VPN connections via a global network of 12,000+ servers, emphasizing user privacy with open-source apps, no logs, and unlimited devices.
Best for
- Privacy-conscious users needing audited protection
- Multi-device households
- Streaming geo-restricted content
- High-speed browsing with ad blocking
Not ideal for
- U.S. jurisdiction (14-Eyes alliance)
- Limited to specific servers for streaming
- Potential speed issues with distant servers
Get Started with Private Internet Access
From $1.98/mo · 3 plans available
Visit Private Internet Access →Private Internet Access Overview
Private Internet Access vs Top Alternatives
| Software | Rating | Starting Price | Free Tier | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PIPrivate Internet Access | 4.0 ★ | $1.98/mo | No | |
| EExpressVPN | 4.7 ★ | $6.67/mo | No | Compare → |
| NNordVPN | 4.6 ★ | $3.39/mo | No | Compare → |
| SSurfshark | 4.5 ★ | $2.49/mo | No | Compare → |
| MvMullvad VPN | 4.3 ★ | $5.81/mo | No | Compare → |
| PVProtonVPN | 4.3 ★ | Free | Yes | Compare → |
Private Internet Access Features
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Proven no-logs policy with independent audits
- Unlimited devices on one subscription
- Ultra-fast speeds via WireGuard
- Extensive server network in 91 countries
- Open-source transparency
- Affordable long-term pricing
- Strong streaming unblocking capabilities
Cons
- U.S. jurisdiction (14-Eyes alliance)
- Limited to specific servers for streaming
- Potential speed issues with distant servers
Pricing Plans
Monthly
- All core features
- Unlimited devices
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Annual
- All core features
- Unlimited devices
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Best value
3-Year
- All core features
- Unlimited devices
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Maximum savings
Private Internet Access Integrations
Private Internet Access connects with 10 services to extend your workflow.
Who Should Use Private Internet Access?
Privacy-conscious torrenting users
Multiple users highlight PIA for downloading torrents without ISP notices, with one user noting speeds up to 300 Mbps on selected servers. Users report excellent P2P support on all servers with port forwarding for better speeds.
RecommendedFrequent travelers and expats
Users mask IPs and encrypt data on public Wi-Fi or abroad, with one long-term reviewer in Asia using it to counter ISP throttling for unrestricted access. Ideal for bypassing regional streaming limitations when traveling abroad.
RecommendedSmall businesses and startups
PIA is a good choice for small businesses and startups that need private connections without VPN enterprise pricing, available for only $2.03 per user. Multi-device households or professionals benefit from unlimited connections across laptops, phones, and networks.
RecommendedContent creators and streamers
Targets YouTube/Twitch creators, gamers, and travelers via a dedicated influencer program. Users bypass regional blocks on shows or sports, though streaming can be inconsistent without dedicated servers.
Not idealWhen to Consider Alternatives
Need fast upload speeds for content creation
Users report severe speed drops from 50 Mbps to under 1 Mbps, with upload speeds lagging significantly behind download speeds. Long-term users note drastic drops making it 'practically unusable'.
Consider NordVPN instead →Require reliable live customer support
Live chat often fails to load, disconnects, or features unresponsive reps. Email support takes 24+ hours and can exceed a week, with phone/chat options having vanished for some users.
Consider ExpressVPN instead →Need consistent streaming access
Many IPs are banned leading to Netflix buffering or failures on non-streaming servers. Regular servers get blocked, often requiring specific optimized servers only available in 11 countries.
Consider Surfshark instead →Maximum privacy is top priority
US-based jurisdiction raises privacy concerns, and ownership by Kape Technologies has a questionable history. Some privacy experts recommend it only for specific use cases like affordable dedicated IPs.
Consider ProtonVPN instead →Top Private Internet Access Alternatives
ExpressVPN
Premium VPN with fast speeds, military-grade encryption, and 24/7 support.
NordVPN
Leading VPN service with strong security, fast speeds, and global server network.
Surfshark
Affordable VPN with unlimited devices and strong privacy features.
Mullvad VPN
Privacy-first VPN service offering anonymous access via WireGuard/OpenVPN on 590+ physical servers without requiring personal data or email registration.
ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN provides secure, no-logs VPN access with a free tier and premium plans, operated from Switzerland by non-profit-backed Proton AG. It features open-source apps, a vast server network, and tools like Tor integration for privacy-focused browsing.