Choosing the right VPN service often brings up two names: NordVPN vs Private Internet Access (PIA). Both have carved out their places in the market and offer a variety of features to protect your online privacy. However, determining which one to choose can be challenging
NordVPN is great for speed, streaming, and security. PIA, on the other hand, focuses on low cost and an extensive server network. This makes the Private Internet Access (PIA) vs NordVPN debate particularly relevant in 2025.
Let’s look at the features, performance, pricing, and security of each VPN. This will help you choose the best one for your needs in 2025.
1. Overview and Company Background
To begin the NordVPN vs Private Internet Access comparison, it’s important to understand each provider’s history and reputation.
NordVPN: The Security-Focused Global Player
Over the years, it has become one of the most famous VPN providers in the world. It offers many security features. With offices in multiple countries, including Lithuania, the UK, and Panama, NordVPN has made significant strides in cybersecurity.
In 2022, it merged with Surfshark under Nord Security. This made it stronger in the market.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Superior speed and performance | More expensive than PIA |
| Excellent streaming capabilities | Limited to 10 simultaneous connections |
| Robust security features (Double VPN, Tor over VPN) | Prices increase after the starting period |
| User-friendly interface | |
| Strong privacy (Panama jurisdiction) |
Private Internet Access: The Veteran with New Ownership
PIA has been around since 2010, with the mission to protect users from revealing their IP addresses. Recently, Kape Technologies acquired PIA in 2019, and it also owns other VPN services like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost. This change in ownership raised concerns for some users because of Kape’s prior history with bundled browser toolbars.
Even so, PIA remains a popular choice for many users seeking a budget-friendly VPN. This keeps the debate about Private Internet Access (PIA) versus NordVPN alive.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More affordable pricing with predictable renewal rates | Slower speeds compared to NordVPN |
| Unlimited simultaneous connections | Struggles with unblocking some streaming services |
| Extensive server network, especially in the US | US jurisdiction may be a concern for privacy-conscious users |
| Strong torrenting support |
2.Pricing and Plans Comparison: NordVPN vs Private Internet Access
NordVPN: Premium Pricing with Tiered Options
NordVPN has different subscription options. Users can pick from various service levels. Prices change based on how long the plan is. Here’s an overview of their pricing:
| Plan Length | Basic | Plus | Ultimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-year Plan | $3.09/month | $3.99/month | $5.99/month |
| 1-year Plan | $4.59/month | $5.59/month | $7.59/month |
| Monthly | $12.99 | $13.99 | $15.99 |
The Basic plan provides VPN protection for up to 10 devices. The Plus plan includes extra features like malware protection and a password manager. The Ultimate plan includes everything in Plus, along with 1TB of encrypted storage.
PIA: Budget-Friendly with Consistent Pricing
PIA is more affordable, offering three main plans with fixed pricing:
| Plan Length | Price |
|---|---|
| 3 years + 4 months | $1.98/month |
| 1 year | $3.33/month |
| 1 month | $11.95/month |
PIA’s pricing stays the same after the starting period ends, making it ideal for long-term users. Unlike NordVPN, PIA does not raise prices after the first offer.
This comparison of NordVPN vs Private Internet Access prices is important. Users want to find long-term value. They also want to avoid hidden fees.
3. Security and Privacy Features
Encryption Standards
Both VPNs use strong encryption protocols, ensuring your online activity is private and secure.
- NordVPN uses AES-256-CBC and SHA-512 for security.
- PIA also uses AES-256-CBC with SHA-2 (strong setting) and offers AES-128-CBC with SHA-1 as a default.
Advanced Security Features Comparison
| Feature | NordVPN | PIA |
|---|---|---|
| VPN Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2, NordLynx (WireGuard-based) | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec |
| Kill Switch | ✅ (2 kill switches) | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ (Windows, Android) | ✅ (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android) |
| Dedicated IP | ✅ (extra cost) | ✅ (extra cost) |
| RAM-only Servers | ✅ | ✅ |
| Double VPN | ✅ | ❌ |
| Ad & Tracker Blocking | ✅ (Threat Protection Pro) | ✅ (PIA MACE) |
Logging Policies and Jurisdiction
- NordVPN operates from Panama. Panama does not require anyone to keep data through laws. A third party has checked its strict no-logs policy.
- PIA, based in the United States, has maintained its no-logs policy, even under legal pressure. This adds weight to the NordVPN vs Private Internet Access privacy debate, especially for users concerned about jurisdiction and data retention laws. For a broader look at how NordVPN stacks up against other U.S.-based VPNs, check out our IPVanish vs NordVPN: A Comprehensive 2025 Comparison.
4. Performance and Speed
NordVPN: Consistent Speed and Performance
NordVPN is renowned for its excellent speed, maintaining high performance across its server network. Its NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, provides a significant boost in speed while maintaining security. On average, NordVPN retains around 90% of baseline connection speeds.
PIA: Slower Speeds, but Still Reliable
PIA is generally slower than NordVPN, with a retention rate of about 45% of baseline speeds. The WireGuard protocol works better than other options. However, it is still slower and less reliable than NordVPN. This is an important factor when choosing between Private Internet Access (PIA) and NordVPN.
5.NordVPN vs Private Internet Access: Server Network Comparison
NordVPN: Wide Global Coverage
With 7,400+ servers across 118 countries, NordVPN provides impressive global coverage. It includes specialized servers, such as Double VPN and Onion over VPN servers, which offer added security. Additionally, NordVPN is particularly strong in regions like Africa, offering servers in 11 countries there.
PIA: Extensive US Server Network
PIA boasts an extensive server network, with 30,000+ servers across 91 countries. Its main feature is that it has servers in all 50 US states.
This makes it a great choice for users who need US-specific content. However, its servers are mainly in North America and Europe. This may affect user choice in the Private Internet Access (PIA) and NordVPN comparison.
6. Streaming and Geo-Unblocking Capabilities
NordVPN: Streaming Champion
NordVPN excels at unblocking geo-restricted content. It works seamlessly with popular streaming platforms like:
- Netflix (multiple libraries)
- Hulu
- BBC iPlayer
- Disney+
- Amazon Prime Video
Its SmartPlay technology ensures a smooth streaming experience without compromising security.
PIA: Mixed Results with Streaming
PIA is more limited in its ability to unblock streaming platforms. While it can access Netflix and BBC iPlayer, it struggles with services like Disney+ and Max.Nevertheless, PIA remains capable of unblocking certain platforms, such as Hulu and YouTube TV. Still, streaming performance is a critical factor in the NordVPN vs Private Internet Access comparison, especially for users who rely on accessing multiple content libraries.
To see how NordVPN compares against another privacy-focused VPN, visit our Mullvad vs NordVPN: The Ultimate VPN Comparison for 2025.
7. Device Compatibility and Ease of Use
NordVPN: User-Friendly and Sleek
NordVPN’s apps are modern and intuitive, available on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and various smart devices. Its user interface is beginner-friendly, with a map-based design for easy server selection. It allows 10 simultaneous connections.
PIA: Functional but Slightly Outdated
PIA offers apps that work on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It also supports unlimited connections at once.
However, its user interface is not as easy to use. It feels outdated when compared to NordVPN’s modern design. This is another point to think about in the Private Internet Access (PIA) vs NordVPN debate.
8. Customer Support
NordVPN: Fast and Efficient Support
NordVPN offers 24/7 live chat support and an extensive knowledge base. Users generally report quicker and more efficient customer service compared to PIA.
PIA: Slower Support
PIA also provides 24/7 live chat and email support, but may not be as responsive as NordVPN. Their support ticket system can be slower at times. Reviews often note this when comparing Private Internet Access (PIA) and NordVPN.
Which VPN Is Right for You?
Both NordVPN and PIA offer distinct advantages depending on what you’re looking for in a VPN.
- Choose NordVPN if speed, streaming capabilities, and robust security are your top priorities. Although it costs more, its top features and performance make it a better choice for users who need high-end functions.
- Choose PIA if you’re on a budget, need unlimited connections, and primarily require US-based servers. PIA offers low prices and a simple approach. This makes it a good choice for users who can give up some performance to save money.
The right VPN for you depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. You can choose NordVPN’s premium service or PIA’s budget-friendly option. Both are good choices for improving your online privacy and security. Understanding the differences between Private Internet Access (PIA) and NordVPN can help you make a better choice.
