AzireVPN vs Mullvad
At first glance, AzireVPN and Mullvad might seem to serve the same audience: privacy-focused users who want real control over their internet presence. But look closer, and you’ll find that each takes a unique approach, shaped by distinct values, infrastructure, and usability priorities.
In this analysis, we dive into the heart of what separates these two privacy-forward VPNs. Whether you’re a seasoned tech user looking for operator-level transparency or someone seeking easy, anonymous access, this guide will help you choose the VPN that fits your privacy philosophy and usage needs.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- AzireVPN delivers top-tier infrastructure and high speeds, thanks to diskless, operator-owned servers and the inclusion of port forwarding for advanced users.
- Mullvad excels in privacy and transparency by requiring no personal data, supporting open-source clients, and maintaining a proven no-logs policy verified through independent audits.
- Users seeking broader streaming compatibility, advanced censorship circumvention, or plug-and-play device integration may prefer other VPN alternatives tailored for those specific use cases.
Quick Comparison: AzireVPN vs Mullvad
| Feature | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Server Count & Locations | ~80 servers in 15 countries | ~900+ servers in 40+ countries |
| Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN, Shadowsocks |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | 5 devices |
| Logging Policy | No logs, diskless servers | No logs, independent audits |
| Port Forwarding | Yes | No |
| Price (monthly) | ≈ €5 | ≈ €5 |
AzireVPN delivers secure infrastructure simplicity and unlimited device connections at an affordable price. In contrast, Mullvad offers a global reach, robust privacy protocols, and transparency through independent verification. Both cost about €5 per month, so your final decision comes down to which set of features aligns with your goals, streamlined control or verified privacy.
Alternatively, users looking for a balance between ease of setup and reliable security might consider Shellfire VPN. With straightforward apps and the plug-and-play Shellfire Box, it offers a middle ground for those who don’t want to sacrifice privacy but prefer not to manage advanced configurations or server settings.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Metric | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Total Servers | Approx. 80 | Over 900 |
| Countries | ~15 | 40+ countries |
| Server Ownership | Owned by Azire (diskless) | Third-party hosts, audited |
| Bandwidth Cap | No cap | No cap |
AzireVPN focuses on quality over quantity. With a smaller network of fully owned, diskless servers, it prioritizes security and data minimization. Each reboot wipes all data, enhancing privacy for users who value controlled environments.
Mullvad counters with a larger, geographically diverse network. While servers are hosted by third parties, these are regularly audited. This gives users greater flexibility when accessing geo-restricted services or ensuring redundancy across continents.
Speed & Performance
| Metric | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| WireGuard Download | Up to 600 Mbps* | Up to 550 Mbps* |
| OpenVPN Download | Up to 200 Mbps | Up to 180 Mbps |
| Latency (EU to US) | ~85 ms | ~90 ms |
| WireGuard Upload | Up to 250 Mbps | Up to 230 Mbps |
When it comes to raw speed, AzireVPN holds a slight advantage. Thanks to its streamlined, diskless infrastructure and lower user congestion, users often enjoy peak performance, particularly with WireGuard. It’s ideal for bandwidth-heavy tasks like gaming or multi-device households.
Speed remains a key battleground in the VPN space, and readers curious about how top-tier services like ExpressVPN and NordVPN stack up in this area can explore a more detailed comparison here.
Mullvad, while slightly trailing in raw benchmarks, delivers more stable routing globally, making it highly reliable across varying server locations and time zones.
Security & Privacy
| Feature | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | WireGuard, OpenVPN (AES‑256) | WireGuard, OpenVPN (AES‑256), Shadowsocks |
| Kill Switch | Yes (desktop & mobile) | Yes (desktop & mobile) |
| Audits | No public audits reported | Multiple third-party audits (e.g., Cure53) |
| Account Anonymity | Email optional, no logs | Anonymous numeric account IDs only |
Mullvad sets the bar for anonymity. Users are assigned random account numbers, no email, no names, no tracking. It has also undergone several rigorous third-party audits, strengthening its position as a top choice for privacy purists.
For a broader look at how Mullvad’s approach to privacy compares with other leading providers, this comparison with ExpressVPN offers additional perspective on how different philosophies shape VPN security.
AzireVPN employs strong encryption standards and benefits from diskless, zero-log infrastructure. However, the absence of public audits means users must rely on its internal transparency claims rather than verified external evaluations.
Streaming Performance
| Platform | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix US/UK | Occasionally works | Mostly works via select servers |
| Disney+ | Often works | Often works |
| HBO Max | Limited success | Generally reliable |
| BBC iPlayer | Poor success | Good success |
In terms of streaming, Mullvad outperforms AzireVPN with its reliable unblocking of services like BBC iPlayer and HBO Max. This is due to better IP rotation and a wider range of servers.
AzireVPN, though occasionally successful with Disney+ and Netflix, falls short in consistently bypassing strict geo-blocks. It’s better suited for users with modest streaming needs or those accessing services available in their region.
Looking for reliable streaming access across all devices?
Our Shellfire Box is designed to provide consistent access to your favorite streaming platforms, which can be a helpful solution if you’re experiencing issues with other VPNs.
Platform Compatibility
| Platform | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Windows/macOS/Linux | Native apps (incl. CLI on Linux) | Native apps + Linux GUI |
| iOS/Android | Apps with WireGuard/OpenVPN | Apps with WireGuard/OpenVPN |
| Routers | Manual setup (OpenWRT, Tomato) | Manual setup guides |
| Browser Extensions | None | None |
| Gaming Consoles & Smart TVs | Via router | Via router |
Both services offer broad compatibility, supporting major operating systems and mobile devices. Mullvad provides a slightly more refined experience on Linux with its GUI support, making it a better fit for users who prefer visual interfaces over command-line tools.
AzireVPN leans towards minimalism. It delivers dependable clients but without the polish or extensive guides found in Mullvad’s ecosystem.
Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries
| Country | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| China | Poor (no advanced obfuscation) | Moderate (custom WireGuard configs) |
| Russia | Poor | Moderate |
| Iran | Poor | Moderate |
For users operating in restrictive environments, Mullvad offers moderate resilience through tweakable configurations, including Shadowsocks bridges. However, neither VPN is designed for heavy-duty obfuscation. AzireVPN, without stealth protocols or custom bridges, struggles in countries with advanced firewall systems.
If your needs include bypassing severe censorship, more specialized VPNs with dedicated stealth modes or bridge technologies may be better suited.
User Experience & Apps
| Aspect | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| UI Design | Minimal and utilitarian | Clean, intuitive, more polished |
| Ease of Use | Intermediate users | Suitable for beginners too |
| Stability | Very stable | Stable with frequent updates |
AzireVPN offers a no-frills experience focused on function over form. Its interface is designed for users who value simplicity and understand basic VPN operations.
Mullvad, on the other hand, blends intuitive design with powerful features. The experience feels modern and user-friendly, even for first-time VPN users, while still supporting advanced configurations.
That said, if convenience and universal device coverage are top priorities, our Shellfire Box presents a compelling solution. It extends VPN protection to any device connected to your home network, without needing to install individual apps, making it especially useful for households with smart TVs, consoles, and less tech-savvy users.
Customer Support
| Support Channel | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | No | No |
| Support ticket, 12–24 hr response | Email, ~12 hr response | |
| Documentation | Basic guides | Extensive setup guides |
| Community Forums | No public forum | Active community + forums |
Both providers avoid real-time support, but Mullvad distinguishes itself through rich documentation and an active user forum. This makes troubleshooting more accessible and builds trust through community transparency.
AzireVPN offers competent email support with acceptable response times, but lacks the depth of resources and collaborative knowledge that Mullvad users can access.
Additional Features
| Feature | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Port Forwarding | Yes | No |
| Ad/Malware Blocking | No | Yes (optional DNS-level block) |
| Multi-hop / Bridge | No | Bridge via Shadowsocks |
| Split Tunneling | No | No |
AzireVPN is favored by power users who need port forwarding, especially for torrenting or hosting services. However, it lacks features like ad blocking or advanced traffic routing.
Mullvad provides a more feature-rich environment, including DNS-level ad blocking and Shadowsocks support for modest obfuscation, which improves usability in restricted networks.
Still, those seeking a VPN that simplifies the experience without compromising essential protections might find value in Shellfire VPN. Its core feature set is optimized for users who want straightforward security and stability, particularly when paired with the Shellfire Box, which removes the complexity from multi-device integration.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use Case | AzireVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Torrenting / P2P | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Gaming | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Remote Work | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Budget Users | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
| Censorship Circumvention | ⭐ ⭐ | ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ |
Best VPN for Streaming
If streaming is your primary goal, Mullvad takes the lead with more consistent access to platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Max. Its wide server network and improved IP rotation help bypass regional restrictions more effectively.
AzireVPN, while sufficient for casual streaming on platforms like Disney+ or occasional Netflix, may not be dependable for persistent geo-unblocking. It’s a good option for users who stream mainly from their local region and prioritize speed over content diversity.
However, if what you need is seamless compatibility with smart TVs, consoles, and multiple devices under one subscription, Shellfire Box offers a plug-and-play alternative. It routes all home traffic through the VPN without manual configuration, which can be a significant advantage for users who want Netflix or Disney+ across the household with minimal hassle.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
With built-in port forwarding and no device cap, AzireVPN is ideal for heavy torrent users who require complete control and flexibility. It’s particularly attractive to users running torrent clients 24/7 or managing multiple seedboxes.
Mullvad also supports P2P and maintains privacy integrity, but its five-device limit and lack of port forwarding may be restrictive for advanced torrenting setups.
Best VPN for Gaming
Gamers will appreciate AzireVPN’s low-latency WireGuard connections and unlimited device policy, making it great for gaming households or users who play across multiple consoles.
Mullvad performs nearly as well in latency and stability, but the connection limit may hinder larger setups. Still, it’s a reliable choice for solo gamers or users with fewer devices.
Alternatively, gamers who want to protect their consoles and gaming PCs simultaneously, without configuring each device individually, can benefit from Shellfire Box. Its ability to secure the entire local network is particularly attractive for multiplayer households where latency and ease of use must go hand in hand.
Best VPN for Remote Work
Mullvad stands out with its polished apps and well-documented setup guides, making it user-friendly for professionals working remotely. Its transparent policies also instill confidence for users handling sensitive tasks.
AzireVPN appeals to those who prefer straightforward tools and unlimited device usage, especially useful in households where multiple people share one VPN connection.
Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users
At about €5 per month each, both VPNs are budget-friendly. AzireVPN stretches that value by supporting unlimited devices, great for families or users with many gadgets.
Mullvad offers slightly more advanced privacy and better usability per user, which may justify its device cap depending on your needs.
Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries
Neither service is tailored for users in extremely censored regions. That said, Mullvad’s Shadowsocks support and custom WireGuard configurations provide moderate workarounds for firewalls in countries like Russia or Iran.
AzireVPN, lacking these stealth tools, is less effective where governments block or monitor VPN traffic. For these scenarios, purpose-built VPNs with obfuscation technologies would be more reliable.
Conclusion
AzireVPN and Mullvad both offer strong privacy foundations and reliable performance, but their design philosophies cater to different user preferences. Choose AzireVPN if you want maximum control over infrastructure, unlimited device usage, and built-in port forwarding. Opt for Mullvad if privacy transparency, extensive server coverage, and ease of use matter more to you.
Each service excels in distinct areas, AzireVPN with its secure, no-frills infrastructure and generous device policy; Mullvad with its privacy-first approach, excellent audit track record, and streaming reliability.
That said, if you’re seeking a smoother experience across all devices with robust security and effortless plug-and-play convenience, Shellfire VPN, especially when paired with the Shellfire Box, offers an accessible yet secure alternative. It’s a practical choice for households or users looking for strong encryption and ease of use without complex setups.
