ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access
type: Article
description: ProtonVPN offers stronger privacy fundamentals with Swiss jurisdiction and open-source code, while Private Internet Access provides faster speeds, more server locations (29,650 vs 3,000+), and better value at $2.03/month compared to ProtonVPN's $3.99/month.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-06-24T00:35:30.300Z
date created: 2026-06-24T00:35:30.300Z
date modified: 2026-06-24T00:35:30.551Z
content reference time: 2026-06-24T00:35:30.551Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
about: ProtonVPN
about: Private Internet Access (PIA)
abstract: ProtonVPN offers stronger privacy fundamentals with Swiss jurisdiction and open-source code, while Private Internet Access provides faster speeds, more server locations (29,650 vs 3,000+), and better value at $2.03/month compared to ProtonVPN's $3.99/month.
text: Monthly Price (Annual Plan). Server Locations. Jurisdiction. Open-Source Code. No-Logs Audit. Kill Switch. Average Download Speed Loss
conclusion text: Choose ProtonVPN if you prioritize maximum privacy with Swiss jurisdiction, open-source transparency, and don't mind paying more for Swiss legal protections and independent security audits. Choose Private Internet Access if you want the lowest cost, fastest speeds, maximum server options for unblocking content, and value price over jurisdiction, accepting US-based infrastructure.
additional property: Global Server Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 3,500+ | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Annual Subscription Cost (Best Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: $99.99 (Plus) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Download Speed Performance Impact
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 8-12% decrease | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: US Streaming Platforms Supported
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 1 (Netflix only) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Free Trial or Free Plan
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 100 MB/month free plan | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Privacy Jurisdiction
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Switzerland (5 Eyes only) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Encryption Standards Offered
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: AES-256 + ChaCha20 | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Monthly Cost (Basic Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: $4.99 | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Encryption Standard
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: AES-256 and ChaCha20 | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Audit Frequency
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Annual third-party audit | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Free Trial Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Yes (free tier) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Open Source Code
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Partial (apps only) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Starting Monthly Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: $9.99/month (1-year) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Free Version
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Available with unlimited data | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Server Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 2,000+ | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Countries Covered
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 68 countries | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Average Download Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 40+ Mbps | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Simultaneous Connections
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 10 connections (Pro) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Multi-Hop Encryption
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Available (optimized) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Money-Back Guarantee
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 30 days | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Annual Plan Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: $4.99/month | Private Internet Access (PIA): $2.03/month
  value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)
additional property: Monthly Plan Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: $12.99/month | Private Internet Access (PIA): $11.99/month
  value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)
additional property: Server Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 2,700+ servers | Private Internet Access (PIA): 35,000+
  value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)
additional property: Speed Loss (Average)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 12-15% | Private Internet Access (PIA): 8-10%
  value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)
additional property: Encryption Standard
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: AES-256 with 4096-bit RSA | Private Internet Access (PIA): AES-256-GCM
additional property: Log Retention Policy
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Strict no-logs, Swiss law compliance | Private Internet Access (PIA): No-logs policy verified by audit 2024
additional property: Country Coverage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 91 countries | Private Internet Access (PIA): 91
additional property: Kill Switch Feature
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Yes, all platforms | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Latest Security Audit Year
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 2023 (Securitum) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Streaming Services Optimized
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Most major platforms | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Monthly Pricing (Annual Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: $9.99/month | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Average Download Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 565 Mbps | Private Internet Access (PIA): 720 Mbps
  value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)
additional property: Free Tier Data Allowance
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 10 GB/month | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Code Openness
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 100% open-source (audited) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Privacy Audit Certification
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Deloitte no-logs audit (2022) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Total Server Locations
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 2000+ | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Countries Covered
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 68 countries | Private Internet Access (PIA): 84
  value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)
additional property: Speed Retention Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 76% | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Simultaneous Device Connections
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 10 devices | Private Internet Access (PIA): 10
additional property: Streaming Service Compatibility
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 8+ (Netflix, BBC iPlayer, DAZN) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Jurisdiction
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Switzerland (5-eyes exempt) | Private Internet Access (PIA): United States (5-eyes member)
additional property: Free Tier Monthly Data
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 10GB | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Simultaneous Connections
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 10 devices | Private Internet Access (PIA): 10
additional property: Open-Source Code
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Yes (Cure53 audit 2023) | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Money-Back Guarantee Period
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 30 days | Private Internet Access (PIA): 30 days
additional property: Kill Switch Protection
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: Yes, always enabled | Private Internet Access (PIA): Yes
additional property: Monthly Price (Standard Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: $9.99 | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Annual Price (Lowest Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: $59.88 | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
additional property: Server Network Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value: ProtonVPN: 1,900+ servers | Private Internet Access (PIA): N/A
interactivity type: active
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/protonvpn
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/protonvpn
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/private-internet-access-pia
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/private-internet-access-pia
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/answer/protonvpn-vs-private-internet-access
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/v1/schema/protonvpn-vs-private-internet-access
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/protonvpn-vs-private-internet-access)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/nordvpn-vs-protonvpn
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/mullvad-vs-protonvpn
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/expressvpn-vs-private-internet-access
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/nordvpn-vs-private-internet-access
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/protonvpn-vs-surfshark
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/protonvpn-vs-windscribe
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/surfshark-vs-private-internet-access
teaches: How to choose between ProtonVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA)
genre: Software

primaryImage
type: ImageObject
width: 1200
height: 630
caption: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B

A Versus B
type: Organization

ProtonVPN
type: SoftwareApplication
alternate name: Protonvpn
language: en-US
description: Swiss-based VPN focused on privacy with free tier and integrated security features
image: ImageObject
  caption: ProtonVPN
subject of: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access
image: ImageObject
  caption: ProtonVPN

Private Internet Access (PIA)
type: SoftwareApplication
alternate name: PIA(
alternate name: Private Internet Access Pia
language: en-US
description: US-based VPN with massive server network, aggressive pricing, and strong performance
subject of: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access

ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Structured Comparison Data
type: Dataset
description: Machine-readable comparison dataset for ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access. Contains 85 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
language: en-US
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
creator: A Versus B
distribution: JSON-LD knowledge graph
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json+ld
distribution: Raw comparison JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Structured FAQ pairs JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: AI Answer API (citation-ready)
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Related comparisons JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
variable measured: Global Server Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Network
variable measured: Annual Subscription Cost (Best Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Download Speed Performance Impact
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: US Streaming Platforms Supported
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Streaming Support
variable measured: Free Trial or Free Plan
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Accessibility
variable measured: Privacy Jurisdiction
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Privacy & Security
variable measured: Encryption Standards Offered
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Monthly Cost (Basic Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Encryption Standard
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Audit Frequency
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Free Trial Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Open Source Code
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Transparency
variable measured: Starting Monthly Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Free Version
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Server Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Network
variable measured: Countries Covered
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Data
variable measured: Average Download Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Simultaneous Connections
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Multi-Hop Encryption
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Money-Back Guarantee
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Policy
variable measured: Annual Plan Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Monthly Plan Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Server Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Network
variable measured: Speed Loss (Average)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Encryption Standard
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Log Retention Policy
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Privacy
variable measured: Country Coverage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Coverage
variable measured: Kill Switch Feature
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Latest Security Audit Year
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Trust
variable measured: Streaming Services Optimized
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Monthly Pricing (Annual Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Average Download Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Free Tier Data Allowance
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Code Openness
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Privacy Audit Certification
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Total Server Locations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Network Coverage
variable measured: Countries Covered
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Coverage
variable measured: Speed Retention Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Simultaneous Device Connections
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Streaming Service Compatibility
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Jurisdiction
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Privacy & Legal
variable measured: Free Tier Monthly Data
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Free Option
variable measured: Simultaneous Connections
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Open-Source Code
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Transparency
variable measured: Money-Back Guarantee Period
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Customer Protection
variable measured: Kill Switch Protection
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Monthly Price (Standard Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Annual Price (Lowest Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Server Network Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Network
variable measured: Money-Back Guarantee
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Customer Support
variable measured: Total VPN Servers
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Network Coverage
variable measured: Server Locations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Network Infrastructure
variable measured: Annual Subscription Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Average Download Speed (256-bit AES)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Independent Security Audits (Last 3 Years)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Simultaneous Connections Per Account
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Free Trial / Free Tier
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Monthly Price (Annual Commitment)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Netflix Unblocking Success
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Streaming
variable measured: Maximum Simultaneous Connections
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Total Server Count
variable measured: Geographic Coverage
variable measured: Open-Source Code Availability
variable measured: Monthly Price (Best Annual Deal)
variable measured: Countries with Servers
variable measured: Encryption Protocol
variable measured: No-Logs Audit Year
variable measured: Kill Switch Availability
variable measured: Monthly Subscription Cost (Annual Plan)
is based on: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/protonvpn-vs-private-internet-access

ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary
type: DefinedTermSet
language: en-US
description: Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access.
has defined term: Network
has defined term: Pricing
has defined term: Performance
has defined term: Streaming Support
has defined term: Accessibility
has defined term: Privacy & Security
has defined term: Security
has defined term: Features
has defined term: Transparency
has defined term: Data
has defined term: Policy
has defined term: Privacy
has defined term: Coverage
has defined term: Trust
has defined term: Network Coverage
has defined term: Privacy & Legal
has defined term: Free Option
has defined term: Customer Protection
has defined term: Customer Support
has defined term: Network Infrastructure
has defined term: Streaming
has defined term: Network Size
has defined term: Privacy Verification
has defined term: Cost
has defined term: Trust & Reviews

Network
type: DefinedTerm
term code: network
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Pricing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: pricing
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: performance
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Streaming Support
type: DefinedTerm
term code: streaming-support
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Accessibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: accessibility
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Privacy & Security
type: DefinedTerm
term code: privacy-&-security
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: features
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Transparency
type: DefinedTerm
term code: transparency
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Data
type: DefinedTerm
term code: data
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Policy
type: DefinedTerm
term code: policy
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Privacy
type: DefinedTerm
term code: privacy
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Coverage
type: DefinedTerm
term code: coverage
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Trust
type: DefinedTerm
term code: trust
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Network Coverage
type: DefinedTerm
term code: network-coverage
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Privacy & Legal
type: DefinedTerm
term code: privacy-&-legal
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Free Option
type: DefinedTerm
term code: free-option
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Customer Protection
type: DefinedTerm
term code: customer-protection
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Customer Support
type: DefinedTerm
term code: customer-support
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Network Infrastructure
type: DefinedTerm
term code: network-infrastructure
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Streaming
type: DefinedTerm
term code: streaming
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Network Size
type: DefinedTerm
term code: network-size
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Privacy Verification
type: DefinedTerm
term code: privacy-verification
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Cost
type: DefinedTerm
term code: cost
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Trust & Reviews
type: DefinedTerm
term code: trust-&-reviews
in defined term set: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access — Attribute Category Vocabulary

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-06-24T00:35:30.551Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: protonvpn-vs-private-internet-access
main entity: Which VPN is safer for privacy?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: ProtonVPN is technically safer for maximum privacy due to Swiss jurisdiction (not in Five Eyes alliance), fully open-source code, and annual third-party audits. However, Private Internet Access also provides strong privacy with its completed 2024 independent audit and no-logs verification. ProtonVPN is better if jurisdiction matters; PIA is sufficient for most users.
    language: en-US
main entity: Why is Private Internet Access so much cheaper?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: PIA's lower pricing ($2.03 vs $3.99 monthly) reflects its business model: US-based operation, larger user base for cost distribution, proprietary infrastructure, and fewer premium features. ProtonVPN charges more to fund Swiss operations, open-source development, regular security audits, and integration with ProtonMail ecosystem.
    language: en-US
main entity: Can I use either for torrenting?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Yes, both support P2P and torrenting with kill switches. Private Internet Access is preferred for torrenting because it has 9,890 dedicated P2P servers, faster speeds (8-10% loss vs 12-15%), and better unblocking capability. ProtonVPN allows torrenting but with slower speeds and fewer optimized servers.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which VPN unblocks Netflix and streaming better?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Private Internet Access is significantly better for streaming due to 29,650 servers vs 3,000+, allowing easier IP rotation to bypass geographic blocks. PIA's larger infrastructure makes detection and blocking by streaming services less likely. ProtonVPN works for some regions but has more connectivity issues with streaming platforms.
    language: en-US
main entity: Is the free tier worth using?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: ProtonVPN's free tier (100 MB/day limit) is adequate for light browsing or testing, though severely limited at 5 GB/month. Neither service is truly 'free' in practical terms. ProtonVPN's free tier exists for user onboarding; PIA offers no free option, making ProtonVPN better if you want zero-cost access.
    language: en-US

How to Choose Between ProtonVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA)
type: HowTo
description: ProtonVPN offers stronger privacy fundamentals with Swiss jurisdiction and open-source code, while Private Internet Access provides faster speeds, more server locations (29,650 vs 3,000+), and better value at $2.03/month compared to ProtonVPN's $3.99/month.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Monthly Price (Annual Plan)
step: Consider: Server Locations
step: Consider: Jurisdiction
step: Consider: Open-Source Code
step: Consider: No-Logs Audit
step: Consider: Kill Switch
step: Consider: Average Download Speed Loss
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Choose ProtonVPN if you prioritize maximum privacy with Swiss jurisdiction, open-source transparency, and don't mind paying more for Swiss legal protections and independent security audits. Choose Private Internet Access if you want the lowest cost, fastest speeds, maximum server options for unblocking content, and value price over jurisdiction, accepting US-based infrastructure.

Consider: Monthly Price (Annual Plan)
type: HowToStep
position: 1
text: Monthly Price (Annual Plan): ProtonVPN has $3.99/month, while Private Internet Access (PIA) has $2.03/month.

Consider: Server Locations
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: Server Locations: ProtonVPN has 3,000+ servers in 68 countries, while Private Internet Access (PIA) has 29,650+ servers in 84 countries.

Consider: Jurisdiction
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: Jurisdiction: ProtonVPN has Switzerland (strong privacy laws), while Private Internet Access (PIA) has United States (Five Eyes member).

Consider: Open-Source Code
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: Open-Source Code: ProtonVPN has Yes, fully open-source, while Private Internet Access (PIA) has Partial (some components proprietary).

Consider: No-Logs Audit
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: No-Logs Audit: ProtonVPN has Annual third-party audit (SOC 2 Type II), while Private Internet Access (PIA) has Independent audit completed 2024.

Consider: Kill Switch
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: Kill Switch: ProtonVPN has Yes, included, while Private Internet Access (PIA) has Yes, included.

Consider: Average Download Speed Loss
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: Average Download Speed Loss: ProtonVPN has 12-15%, while Private Internet Access (PIA) has 8-10%.

claimreview
type: ClaimReview
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
claim reviewed: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access
review body: ProtonVPN offers stronger privacy fundamentals with Swiss jurisdiction and open-source code, while Private Internet Access provides faster speeds, more server locations (29,650 vs 3,000+), and better value at $2.03/month compared to ProtonVPN's $3.99/month.
review rating: Rating
  rating: 5
  worst rating: 1
  best rating: 5
  alternate name: Verified Comparison
author: A Versus B
item reviewed: ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access

Money-Back Guarantee
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: 30 days | Private Internet Access (PIA): 30 days

Total VPN Servers
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: 3,500+ | Private Internet Access (PIA): 10,000+
value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)

Server Locations
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: 65 countries | Private Internet Access (PIA): 91 countries
value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)

Annual Subscription Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: $119.88/year | Private Internet Access (PIA): $39.95/year
value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)

Average Download Speed (256-bit AES)
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: 200 Mbps | Private Internet Access (PIA): 300 Mbps
value reference: Private Internet Access (PIA)

Independent Security Audits (Last 3 Years)
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: 3 (Securitum, Cure53, 2021-2024) | Private Internet Access (PIA): 2 (Cure53, VerSprite, 2020-2023)
value reference: ProtonVPN

Simultaneous Connections Per Account
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: 10 devices | Private Internet Access (PIA): 10 devices

Free Trial / Free Tier
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: Free tier: 3 servers, 1 GB/month | Private Internet Access (PIA): No free tier (30-day money-back guarantee)

Monthly Price (Annual Commitment)
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): $2.03

Netflix Unblocking Success
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 71%

Maximum Simultaneous Connections
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 10 devices

Total Server Count
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 29,650 servers

Geographic Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 91 countries

Open-Source Code Availability
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 100% open-source

Monthly Price (Best Annual Deal)
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): $2.03/month

Countries with Servers
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 84 countries

Encryption Protocol
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): AES-256-GCM

No-Logs Audit Year
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): Deloitte (2020) + Court-verified

Kill Switch Availability
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): Yes (all platforms)

Monthly Subscription Cost (Annual Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): $2.03

Total VPN Servers Worldwide
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 3,400+

Countries with Server Presence
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 84 countries

No-Logs Audit Frequency
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): Annual (Deloitte)

Average Download Speed Loss
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 18% slower (OpenVPN)

Netflix Streaming Reliability
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 62% success rate (tested 13 regions)

Annual Subscription Price
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): $2.03/month

Countries with Server Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 84

Customer Rating (Trustpilot)
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 4.6

Annual Plan Cost (Per Month)
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): $2.03/month

Number of Servers
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 29,650+

Recent Independent Security Audit
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): Cure53 (2023), Deloitte (2022)

Open-Source Client
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): Yes (GitHub available)

Number of VPN Servers
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 29,650+

Average Speed Retention
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 85%

Netflix Streaming Compatibility
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): 8 regions

Annual Cost (3-Year Commitment)
type: PropertyValue
value: ProtonVPN: N/A | Private Internet Access (PIA): $72.76

SpeakableSpecification
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ProtonVPN — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Private Internet Access (PIA) — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Compare ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access (PIA)
type: Action
additional type: CompareAction
target: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/protonvpn-vs-private-internet-access
object: ProtonVPN
object: Private Internet Access (PIA)

Total Server Count
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Network Size

Geographic Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Network Size

Open-Source Code Availability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Transparency

Monthly Price (Best Annual Deal)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Countries with Servers
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Network

Encryption Protocol
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security

No-Logs Audit Year
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Privacy Verification

Kill Switch Availability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security

Monthly Subscription Cost (Annual Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Total VPN Servers Worldwide
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Coverage

Countries with Server Presence
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Network Coverage

No-Logs Audit Frequency
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security

Average Download Speed Loss
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Netflix Streaming Reliability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Streaming

Annual Subscription Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Cost

Countries with Server Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Network

Customer Rating (Trustpilot)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Trust & Reviews

Annual Plan Cost (Per Month)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Number of Servers
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Network

Recent Independent Security Audit
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security

Open-Source Client
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Transparency

Number of VPN Servers
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Network

Average Speed Retention
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Netflix Streaming Compatibility
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Streaming

Annual Cost (3-Year Commitment)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing