NordVPN VS Private Internet Access

NordVPN vs Private Internet Access (PIA): Which VPN Should You Choose?

When considering a VPN platform, the choice often comes down to balancing speed, security, server coverage, price, and ease of use.

NordVPN presents itself as a premium, feature-rich option with advanced security tools and global reach. In contrast, PIA positions itself as a value-oriented, power-user-friendly service with unlimited device support and strong customization.

If you prioritize ultra-fast performance, streaming/unblocking capability, and advanced protective features (double-VPN, obfuscation, mesh networking), then NordVPN is likely your better fit. Conversely, if you're budget-sensitive, want unlimited device connections, and are comfortable with more hands-on configuration, Private Internet Access may serve you well.

In this guide, we’ll cover the key differences between NordVPN and PIA, show a side-by-side comparison, dive into a detailed feature evaluation, highlight when each service is most appropriate, and finally deliver a verdict to help you decide.

Key Differences Between NordVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA)

• Performance & streaming/unblocking: NordVPN consistently delivers faster speeds and better streaming/unblocking (e.g., more Netflix libraries) compared to PIA.
• Price & device-connections: Private Internet Access offers significantly lower long-term pricing and supports unlimited simultaneous device connections. NordVPN limits up to 10 devices on typical plans.
• Security, jurisdiction & extra features: NordVPN is based in Panama (privacy-friendly) and offers specialty servers (Double VPN, Onion over VPN, Threat Protection), whereas Private Internet Access is U.S.-based and emphasizes encryption customization and open-source transparency.
• Server network spread vs volume: Private Internet Access (PIA) boasts a much larger number of servers, particularly in the U.S., while NordVPN covers more countries with fewer overall servers.
• Ease of use vs customization: NordVPN offers more polished, beginner-friendly apps and features. Whereas PIA gives advanced users more configuration flexibility (e.g., port-forwarding, Shadowsocks, encryption level choice).

NordVPN vs Private Internet Access Comparison Table

Detailed Feature Comparison of Private Internet Access vs NordVPN

Here we dig into the specific features that most users compare when choosing between these two VPN services.

Speed, Latency & Global Performance

Speed is often a critical factor. Tests show NordVPN delivering significantly higher download speeds in many server locations than PIA. For example, in one test, NordVPN ~903 Mbps vs PIA ~299 Mbps on a Seattle server. Some sources find them closer in local tests, but still edge NordVPN in consistency across international servers. If high throughput for streaming/4K/video calls is your priority, NordVPN has the advantage. If your usage is moderate and you prioritize value, PIA may suffice.

Server Network, Location Diversity & Device Connections

Private Internet Access (PIA) boasts an enormous number of servers (35,000+ in 91 countries) and supports unlimited devices. It is great for households with many gadgets. NordVPN covers more countries (127) with fewer overall servers and limits devices (~10), but ensures high-quality infrastructure and high-bandwidth servers (10 Gbps, RAM-only). So, if you want many devices protected (smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, routers) and many users, Private Internet Access is very strong. If you want broad geographic access and strong infrastructure, NordVPN leads.

Streaming, Geo-Unblocking & P2P/Torrenting Support

NordVPN excels at streaming/unblocking. Testers found it could access 17 Netflix libraries vs PIA’s ~6. It also offers SmartPlay DNS, special for Torrents via P2P-optimised servers. Private Internet Access supports torrenting everywhere and includes port-forwarding (an advantage for torrenting), but its streaming performance is less consistent globally. If streaming international content is key, NordVPN is more reliable. For torrenting/p2p with unlimited devices, PIA is attractive.

Security, Privacy Jurisdiction, Logging Policy

NordVPN is based in Panama (outside major surveillance alliances) and runs RAM-only servers. It offers Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and advanced threat protection modules. Private Internet Access (PIA) is U.S.-based (within Five Eyes concerns) but has a proven no-logs policy (court-tested) and excellent custom encryption options (AES-128, AES-256, etc.). If maximum privacy from jurisdictions/oversight is a priority, NordVPN has the edge. If you are technically comfortable and want custom control at a lower cost, PIA is very solid.

User Interface, Ease of Setup & Platform Support

NordVPN offers a polished map-based UI, clearly labelled specialty servers, apps for all major OSes, browser extensions, and solid ease-of-use. Private Internet Access offers a more minimalist interface, deeper settings (which is good for power users), but may be less approachable for VPN beginners. PIA also supports unlimited simultaneous connections, which makes it convenient for multi-device families. So, if you prefer “install & forget” and easy navigation, NordVPN might appeal more. If you enjoy tweaking settings, PIA may fit better.

When to Choose NordVPN or Private Internet Access (PIA)?

Final Verdict: Private Internet Access or NordVPN?

In the showdown between NordVPN and Private Internet Access, there’s no one-size-fits-all winner. Rather, your best choice depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for a premium, highly polished VPN with strong streaming/unblocking, top security features, and global presence, NordVPN is the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for great value, want many devices covered, and are comfortable with a more technical setup, PIA delivers excellent bang for the buck.

Reach out to our software experts for a free consultation and demo to help you pick the best VPN platform for your needs.