Shellfire

When privacy is your passion rather than a marketing slogan, the usual big‑brand VPNs often feel shallow. AirVPN and Mullvad both sprang from grassroots communities of activists and technologists who care more about encryption and user sovereignty than slick TV campaigns. As someone who has spent weeks using both services, I’ve enjoyed the sense of control they provide, from anonymous cash payments to open‑source code that anyone can audit. Still, these two ethical heavyweights take different paths to the same goal, and choosing between them isn’t straightforward.

AirVPN caters to tinkerers who like to adjust their network stack by hand. Its apps expose every setting, from custom port selection to SSL or SSH tunnelling, and even let you run traffic over the Tor network. However, that power comes with limitations. The network is tiny and concentrated in Europe and North America, so latency spikes if you live elsewhere. During my tests, a UK server reduced my 228 Mbps baseline down to 15 Mbps and tripled ping times.

By contrast, Mullvad focuses on doing fewer things but doing them extremely well. It runs hundreds of servers spread across nearly fifty countries, offers clients that anyone can use in minutes, and still maintains features like MultiHop, DNS‑level ad blocking and quantum‑resistant tunnels. Speeds are consistently high, a German node delivered over 467 Mbps downstream on a 500 Mbps line in Cybernews’ 2025 tests, and sign‑ups require only a random account number, no email address.

Key Points

• AirVPN allows anonymous cash or cryptocurrency payments and provides open‑source clients with advanced features like Tor over VPN and SSL/SSH tunnelling, but its network is small and high latency can halve download speeds.
• Mullvad operates more than 700 servers in about 49 countries, offers fast WireGuard connections and DNS‑based ad blocking, and signs you up with a 16‑digit account number instead of an email address.
• Mainstream VPNs invest in expansive networks and dedicated streaming servers; hardware devices like router‑based VPNs protect every gadget in your home without installing software on each one.

Quick Comparison: AirVPN vs Mullvad

Criteria	AirVPN	Mullvad
Price	From about €2 per month on long‑term plans	€5 per month flat rate
Money‑back guarantee	Three days	Thirty days
Server network	Roughly 200 servers in 23 countries	Over 700 servers in 49 countries
Device limit	Five devices	Five devices
Protocols	OpenVPN (with optional SSL/SSH)	WireGuard and OpenVPN
Unique features	Tor over VPN, customizable ports, open‑source clients	DNS ad/tracker blocking, MultiHop bridge mode, quantum‑resistant tunnels
Streaming support	Limited, some Netflix US and Disney+	Poor, rarely works with major services
Best suited to	Privacy advocates and power users	Privacy seekers who value speed and simplicity

On paper, both providers promise absolute anonymity and eschew marketing hype. AirVPN is inexpensive and highly configurable, but its lean network and ageing protocol support lead to slower connections and more manual work.

Mullvad asks for a flat fee and provides a bigger, faster network, audited apps and extras like MultiHop and quantum‑resistant encryption, making it easier to use without sacrificing privacy. Neither service excels at streaming or supports huge numbers of simultaneous devices, reflecting their focus on security over entertainment.

If you need a VPN that protects your whole household without tinkering, consider a plug‑and‑play solution. The Shellfire Box secures every device on your network through a hardware gateway, while the Shellfire VPN app offers one‑tap privacy on phones and laptops. These options trade advanced controls for ease of use and can be good alternatives for families or non‑technical users.

Infrastructure & Global Coverage

Metric	AirVPN	Mullvad
Total servers	About 200	More than 700
Countries covered	23 (mostly Europe and North America)	49, global footprint
Americas coverage	USA, Canada and Brazil; around thirteen locations	USA, Canada, Brazil and several others
Europe coverage	Approximately seventeen countries	Over thirty countries
Asia Pacific coverage	Japan and Singapore only	Eight or more countries
Middle East & Africa	No servers	Limited presence including South Africa
Server types	Physical servers only	Mix of physical and RAM‑only servers
Dedicated/static IP	Not available	Not available

AirVPN concentrates most of its roughly 200 servers in Europe and North America, leaving Africa, the Middle East and much of Asia without coverage. That means travellers in those regions must connect to far‑away nodes, increasing latency and reducing throughput.

Mullvad expands the playing field dramatically with more than 700 servers across nearly fifty countries, including nodes in South Africa and the Asia–Pacific. Its infrastructure uses a mix of owned and rented machines, many running in RAM to avoid data persistence, and all servers are documented publicly. If you need the lowest possible ping or diverse exit points, Mullvad is the clear winner.

For another perspective on how Mullvad stacks up against a larger provider, our comparison of Mullvad vs ProtonVPN examines global coverage, independent audits and pricing in depth. It’s a useful read if you’re weighing multiple privacy‑centric services.

Speed & Performance

Location	AirVPN, download/upload (latency)	Mullvad, download/upload (latency)
United States	≈37 Mbps/52 Mbps (≈137 ms)	≈458 Mbps/149 Mbps (131 ms)
United Kingdom	≈15 Mbps/7 Mbps (≈53 ms)	≈467 Mbps/467 Mbps (33 ms)
Brazil	≈23 Mbps/1.2 Mbps (high latency)	≈277 Mbps/69 Mbps (293 ms)
Asia Pacific (e.g., Singapore)	≈38 Mbps/26 Mbps (≈200 ms)	≈406 Mbps/80 Mbps (268 ms)
Average latency impact	High, often adds 100+ ms	Low, generally under 40 ms

The performance gap between these two services is stark. On my 228 Mbps baseline, AirVPN connections to nearby servers like Frankfurt or London cut download speeds by 68–93 % and increased ping times dramatically. Its reliance on OpenVPN means you can tweak parameters, but the network often routes your traffic through distant nodes.

Conversely, Mullvad uses 10 Gbps WireGuard connections; Cybernews recorded average download retention of over 84 % with latencies as low as 33 ms. Even distant servers maintained respectable throughput, making Mullvad suitable for gaming and video calls where responsiveness counts.

If you want to see how AirVPN compares to a different privacy‑focused provider, our AirVPN vs ProtonVPN analysis explores speed tests and reliability across continents.

Security & Privacy

Feature	AirVPN	Mullvad
Encryption	AES‑256‑GCM with optional ChaCha20	AES‑256‑GCM and ChaCha20
Protocols	OpenVPN only, with SSL/SSH tunnelling	WireGuard and OpenVPN
Kill switch	Integrated network lock	Permanent kill switch (lockdown mode)
Split tunnelling	Limited (requires manual configuration)	Available on Windows, Linux and Android
Audits	No independent audits	Regular third‑party audits and open‑source apps
Logging policy	No logs; accepts cash; minimal account data	No logs; random account numbers; accepts cash and cryptocurrency
Additional tools	Tor over VPN, SSL/SSH tunnelling, customizable ports	DNS‑based ad/tracker blocking, MultiHop/Bridge mode, quantum‑resistant tunnels

Both providers take privacy seriously but implement it differently. AirVPN uses only OpenVPN, which is stable but less efficient than WireGuard. Its apps are entirely open source and let you route traffic through Tor or disguise it via SSL/SSH, and you can pay anonymously with cash or cryptocurrency. However, there have been no independent audits of its infrastructure, so you must trust the developers’ assurances.

Mullvad also publishes open‑source clients but goes further by commissioning regular third‑party audits. You sign up with a random account number rather than an email, and payments can be made with cash, Bitcoin or Monero. Extras like DNS‑level ad blocking, MultiHop bridge mode and quantum‑resistant WireGuard tunnels show that security doesn’t have to come at the cost of convenience. If verifiable transparency and modern encryption matter most, Mullvad edges ahead.

Streaming Performance

Platform	AirVPN	Mullvad
Netflix US	Sometimes works in HD	Rarely works
Other Netflix regions	Inconsistent	Usually blocked
Amazon Prime Video	Occasionally accessible	Generally blocked
Disney+	Works sporadically	Usually blocked
BBC iPlayer & Hulu	Blocked	Blocked
Smart DNS/Media streamer	Not offered	Not offered

Neither service courts streamers. AirVPN can sometimes access the US Netflix library and Disney+, but success is inconsistent and there are no Smart DNS tools to simplify set‑up on TVs.

Mullvad fares even worse: most major platforms block its servers, and its development team openly states that unblocking content isn’t a priority. If binge‑watching global shows is important, mainstream providers like ExpressVPN or NordVPN are more suitable.

Platform Compatibility

Platform/Device	AirVPN	Mullvad
Windows & macOS	Yes, open‑source client (Eddie)	Yes, open‑source client
Linux	Yes, multiple GUIs and CLI options	Yes, full GUI on Debian/Fedora/Ubuntu
iOS & Android	Yes, basic clients (no split tunnelling)	Yes, includes split tunnelling and custom DNS
Browser extensions	No	Privacy companion for Firefox (Proxy & WebRTC blocker)
Streaming devices	Manual configuration only	Manual configuration only
Game consoles	Requires router setup	Requires router setup
Router support	OpenVPN & WireGuard profiles	OpenVPN & WireGuard profiles
Simultaneous connections	Five	Five

Both providers offer open‑source applications for Windows, macOS and Linux. AirVPN’s Eddie client exposes every option, appealing to users who enjoy customising protocols and ports, but beginners may find the interface dated and confusing. There is no split‑tunnelling option, so all traffic goes through the VPN.

Mullvad’s apps are minimalist but polished: they support split tunnelling on Windows, Linux and Android, allow custom DNS resolvers and include a browser extension that disables WebRTC and routes your browser through a SOCKS5 proxy. Neither service offers Smart DNS, and both require manual configuration or a compatible router for consoles and smart TVs.

Performance in Censorship‑Heavy Countries

Country	AirVPN	Mullvad
China	Works on a few servers via SSL/SSH tunnelling	Uses Bridge mode with Shadowsocks; higher success rate
Iran	Variable success with SSL/SSH	Bridge mode sometimes works
United Arab Emirates	Limited connectivity	Limited connectivity
Russia	Accessible via SSL tunnelling	Variable results
Turkey	Works via SSL/SSH	Works via Bridge mode

Bypassing national firewalls is a game of cat and mouse. AirVPN offers SSL and SSH tunnelling options that disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS or SSH sessions, which can help in moderately restrictive countries, but its limited network means finding a working node is hit‑and‑miss.

Mullvad has a purpose‑built Bridge mode that chains a Shadowsocks proxy with a VPN connection to obfuscate packets and works reasonably well in China and Iran. Success is never guaranteed, so if bypassing censorship is a priority you may want to subscribe and download software before travelling and consider services that specialise in obfuscation.

User Experience & Apps

Aspect	AirVPN	Mullvad
Interface design	Spartan and information‑dense	Clean and minimalist
Ease of use	Moderate, uses technical language and many settings	Easy, intuitive menus and sensible defaults
Server selection	List view with server load and technical metrics	List and map view with favourites and load indicators
Settings & customisation	Extensive manual options (ports, protocols, tunnelling)	Rich options including MultiHop, DNS and split tunnelling
Stability & bugs	Stable but interface feels dated	Very stable and polished
Language support	Limited	Multiple languages

The Eddie client used by AirVPN exposes a wealth of information: real‑time throughput graphs, latency scores and server load. Advanced users can fine‑tune ports and ciphers or import custom configuration files. However, the sheer number of options and the dated design can be intimidating.

Mullvad’s apps hide their power behind a clean interface. A map lets you select an exit point visually; advanced features like Bridge mode or custom DNS are tucked behind simple toggles. Both clients are open source, but Mullvad feels more approachable and stable overall.

If the idea of installing and configuring software sounds daunting, a hardware solution might be easier. The Shellfire Box plugs into your router and secures every device on your home network without any technical know‑how. For travellers who need quick protection on their laptop or phone, the Shellfire VPN app offers one‑tap connection and a respectable network of servers around the world.

Customer Support

Support channel	AirVPN	Mullvad
Email support	Yes, responses in one to two days	Yes, usually within a day
Knowledge base	Extensive guides and active forums	Comprehensive guides and FAQs
Community forum	Active community with developer participation	Active forum and subreddit
Live chat	Not available	Not available
Tutorial videos	None officially	Some unofficial resources

Support is where both services show their small‑team roots. AirVPN relies on email and a busy forum; replies can take a day or two and occasionally feel terse. The forums are rich with knowledge but can be unfriendly to newcomers.

Mullvad answers email queries within hours and maintains clear documentation. There’s no live chat, but the subreddit and GitHub issue tracker provide community feedback channels. In short, expect self‑help and email rather than instant messaging.

Additional Features

Feature	AirVPN	Mullvad
Port forwarding	Removed in 2023	Removed in 2023
MultiHop/Bridge mode	Manual configuration via custom configs	Built‑in Bridge mode with Shadowsocks
Ad & tracker blocking	Not available	DNS‑based blocker with optional hardcore mode
Obfuscation/stealth	SSL and SSH tunnelling	Bridge mode using Shadowsocks
Quantum‑resistant tunnels	Not available	Default with WireGuard connections
Split tunnelling	Not available	Available on select platforms

Feature lists highlight Mullvad’s maturity. Both providers discontinued port forwarding in 2023 to reduce abuse. AirVPN still lets you chain connections manually by editing configuration files and provides SSL/SSH tunnelling, but it lacks built‑in ad blocking and quantum‑resistant encryption.

Mullvad integrates DNS‑based ad and tracker blocking with an optional “hardcore mode” that blocks sites like Facebook and YouTube, offers a simple Bridge mode to chain servers through Shadowsocks, and enables post‑quantum WireGuard tunnels by default. Split tunnelling and custom DNS settings are available on Windows, Android and Linux. These extras make Mullvad feel more complete without compromising its ethical stance.

If you’d rather not worry about configuring port forwarding or DNS settings at all, Shellfire VPN and the Shellfire Box provide hassle‑free protection with simple on/off controls and a respectable set of servers. They may lack some advanced features but make privacy accessible to everyone.

VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More

Use case	AirVPN	Mullvad
Streaming	⭐	⭐
Torrenting/P2P	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Gaming	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Remote work	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Budget‑conscious	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Censorship bypass	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best VPN for Streaming

If watching the latest films and shows is your main goal, neither AirVPN nor Mullvad will satisfy. AirVPN occasionally unlocks the US Netflix library and sometimes works with Disney+, but it fails on most other platforms and lacks a Smart DNS mode for televisions.

Mullvad fares worse, it rarely accesses any major streaming service, and the developers openly prioritise privacy over entertainment. For consistent access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer and similar services, a mainstream provider such as ExpressVPN or Surfshark is the better choice.

That said, if you only stream occasionally and value anonymity more than 4K playback, AirVPN may suffice on nearby servers. Alternatively, our Shellfire Box protects your home network and makes it easy to toggle VPN protection on your streaming devices without juggling apps. It won’t unblock every catalogue, but it offers simplicity and broad device compatibility.

Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P

Both services permit torrenting and have strict no‑logs policies, but their performance differs. AirVPN’s slower network will get the job done, yet large downloads take longer and there’s no built‑in ad or malware blocker.

Mullvad’s faster speeds and DNS‑level blocking make it more pleasant for regular P2P activity, and its WireGuard connections saturate high‑bandwidth links. Neither provider offers port forwarding any more, which can impact seeding ratios, but if you’re seeding lightly or downloading occasionally Mullvad provides a better balance of speed and privacy.

If you need port forwarding for private trackers or self‑hosting, consider exploring other options. Our AirVPN vs ProtonVPN article discusses how some providers handle port forwarding and bandwidth caps.

Best VPN for Gaming

Latency is the enemy of competitive gaming. With AirVPN, limited server locations mean you’re often far from the closest node, adding hundreds of milliseconds of delay and causing rubber‑banding in fast‑paced games.

Mullvad’s larger network and 10 Gbps servers reduce ping times dramatically; Cybernews recorded just 33 ms of latency from Germany. For gamers who value privacy, Mullvad is the only viable choice among these two, though you’ll still pay a modest premium.

Those playing on consoles or with multiple devices may appreciate the Shellfire VPN app or Shellfire Box. A hardware‑based VPN can cover your console and PC simultaneously without complex router configuration, making it easier to protect your gaming sessions across the entire household.

Best VPN for Remote Work

Remote workers need reliability, low latency and strong security. AirVPN delivers robust encryption and Tor over VPN, but its sparse network often routes you through distant servers, which can slow uploads and disrupt video calls.

Mullvad’s broader network and higher baseline speeds mean smoother conferencing and faster file transfers. Split tunnelling on Windows and Linux lets you protect work traffic while leaving non‑critical apps on your normal connection, further improving performance.

If you’re a freelancer or telecommuter who wants privacy without constant tweaking, Mullvad is more accommodating. However, if you prefer a set‑and‑forget solution that secures your laptop and home Wi‑Fi simultaneously, our Shellfire Box offers whole‑home protection with minimal configuration.

Best VPN for Budget‑Conscious Users

AirVPN is one of the cheapest privacy‑first VPNs available. You can pay for just a few days or months at a time, and long‑term subscriptions cost around €2 per month. If you need to support activism while keeping costs down, it’s unbeatable.

Mullvad charges a flat €5 per month with no discounts, which makes pricing simple but slightly higher. Considering its faster speeds and broader network, Mullvad still offers good value, but those on a tight budget may prefer AirVPN.

Alternatively, the Shellfire VPN service offers competitive monthly pricing and includes a generous server list. It’s worth comparing if you want a middle ground between price and performance.

Best VPN for Censorship‑Heavy Countries

Getting around government firewalls is difficult for any VPN. AirVPN provides SSL/SSH tunnelling to disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS or SSH, which can work in countries like Russia and Turkey. However, its small network and absence of obfuscated servers mean connectivity may be unreliable.

Mullvad equips users with Bridge mode and Shadowsocks proxies, making it more capable in heavily censored regions like China and Iran. Still, there are no guarantees, and both providers recommend configuring the app before you travel.

For travellers who rarely venture into restrictive regions, a simpler option like the Shellfire Box may suffice. It won’t outsmart the Great Firewall, but it offers quick protection for everyday browsing when you’re abroad.

Conclusion

Comparing AirVPN and Mullvad is like choosing between two handcrafted instruments. AirVPN embodies the hacker spirit: it’s inexpensive, open source and lets you route traffic through Tor or hide it in SSL tunnels. But the network is tiny and slow, there are no independent audits and beginners may find the apps daunting. Mullvad brings similar ethics to a bigger stage. It charges a simple flat fee, operates hundreds of servers worldwide and publishes audits of its code and infrastructure. Features like DNS ad blocking, MultiHop bridge mode and quantum‑resistant tunnels make it surprisingly modern without compromising on privacy.

Your decision comes down to priorities. If you are a tinkerer on a tight budget who wants maximum control and is willing to accept slower speeds, AirVPN is a worthy choice. If you want strong privacy with minimal fuss and better performance, Mullvad stands out. Neither service is ideal for streaming, but both prove that you don’t need a corporate giant to protect your data.

Remember there’s more than one way to secure your digital life. The Shellfire VPN app offers straightforward privacy on the go, while our Shellfire Box can shield every device in your home with hardly any configuration. These options may lack some of the advanced tweaks of AirVPN or the broad network of Mullvad, but for families and less technical users, they deliver peace of mind without the learning curve.