NordVPN vs Private Internet Access
Today, we’re putting two VPN heavyweights head-to-head: NordVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA). Both are leaders in privacy, security, and performance, but each has its own strengths and unique approach. If you’re struggling to decide which one fits you best, you’re in the right place for clear, no-nonsense answers.
NordVPN impresses with blazing-fast speeds powered by its proprietary NordLynx protocol. Meanwhile, PIA bets on flexibility, offering unlimited device connections at a very wallet-friendly price. In this guide, we’ll break down the real differences so you can choose with confidence—no guesswork required.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- NordVPN is ideal if you prioritize speed, heavy streaming, or large downloads.
- PIA is perfect if you have many devices to protect or want to save money without compromising security.
- And if you’re simply looking for an easy-to-use VPN that just works without any hassle, Shellfire might be exactly what you need.
Quick Comparison: NordVPN vs Private Internet Access
| Feature | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price (2-year plan) | $3.09/month | $2.03/month |
| Available Servers | 7,400+ in 118 countries | 3,300+ in 84 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | Up to 10 devices | Unlimited |
| Speed | Excellent (up to 950 Mbps) | Very good (up to 750 Mbps) |
| Streaming Access | Excellent (Netflix, Amazon, BBC…) | Limited (some Netflix libraries only) |
| Security | AES-256, Threat Protection | AES-256, MACE (Ad and Malware Blocker) |
| Ease of Use | Advanced yet intuitive | Highly customizable |
Both providers have a lot to offer. But if you’re after a VPN you can set up in minutes, that simply works without complicated settings, and even offers a free plan to start with, Shellfire VPN might just be the perfect fit.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Aspect | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Total Servers | 7,400+ | 3,300+ |
| Countries Covered | 118 | 84 |
| Specialized Servers | P2P, Double VPN, Onion over VPN | Optimized for P2P |
| Recent Expansion (2024–2025) | +1,200 servers | +500 servers |
NordVPN boasts a truly massive network. Not only does it offer more servers, but it also includes advanced options like Double VPN and Onion over VPN. That means greater flexibility and real privacy boosts for users who want extra security layers.
PIA also covers an impressive range of countries and has seen significant growth, especially in regions where privacy is a top concern. While its network isn’t as large as NordVPN’s, it remains highly functional and reliable for everyday use.
Speed & Performance
| Metric | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Average Download Speed | 720 Mbps | 382 Mbps |
| Average Upload Speed | 473 Mbps | 267 Mbps |
| Speed Loss | 18% | 30% |
| Latency (Ping) | 38 ms | 45 ms |
| Connection Stability | Excellent | Very good |
| Infrastructure | 10Gbps servers | Mix of 1Gbps and 10Gbps servers |
| Protocol Optimization | Highly optimized NordLynx | WireGuard available, less optimized |
If you’re into 4K streaming, online gaming, or heavy downloads, NordVPN is an absolute powerhouse. Its NordLynx protocol delivers outstanding speeds, and its 10Gbps server network keeps everything running smoothly.
PIA performs well for everyday tasks, but at longer distances or under heavy network congestion, you might notice some slowdowns. Still, for regular browsing, streaming, and work, it holds up very well.
Security & Privacy
Supported Protocols
| Protocol | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | ✅ | ✅ |
| IKEv2 | ✅ | ✅ |
| WireGuard | ❌ (uses NordLynx instead) | ✅ |
| NordLynx | ✅ | ❌ |
| L2TP/IPsec | ✅ | ✅ |
Advanced Security Features
| Feature | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES-256-GCM |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ad and Malware Blocking | ✅ (Threat Protection) | ✅ (MACE) |
| Double VPN | ✅ | ❌ |
| RAM-only Servers | ✅ (full implementation) | ✅ (partial implementation) |
| Private DNS | ✅ | ✅ |
| WebRTC Leak Protection | ✅ | ✅ |
| Independent Audits | ✅ (extensive) | ❌ |
| Jurisdiction | Panama (outside Five Eyes) | USA (within Five Eyes) |
NordVPN delivers a rock-solid security package. From its Panama-based headquarters to its Double VPN feature, everything is designed to maximize your privacy. Plus, multiple independent audits have confirmed its practices, adding extra peace of mind.
PIA, while based in the U.S., has a strong record of defending its no-logs policy in court. Its MACE feature also does a great job blocking online threats. However, it lacks some of the advanced protections that NordVPN includes by default.
Streaming Performance
| Platform | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix | 15+ libraries, smooth 4K playback | Some libraries, occasional interruptions |
| Amazon Prime | Consistent access | Variable performance |
| Disney+ | Excellent access | Frequent issues |
| HBO Max | Very good performance | Limited access |
| BBC iPlayer | Works perfectly | Rarely works |
| DAZN | Stable access | Access problems |
| Hulu | Runs without interruptions | Variable performance |
| Special Technology | SmartPlay (DNS + VPN integration) | Standard implementation |
If you love watching shows and movies from other countries, NordVPN will make your life much easier. It unlocks tons of libraries, often delivering smooth 4K streams with no annoying buffering. Thanks to its SmartPlay technology, you don’t even need to tweak any settings—everything just works automatically.
PIA can unblock some Netflix libraries, but it struggles more with tougher platforms like Disney+ or BBC iPlayer. For serious streaming sessions, NordVPN clearly has the upper hand.
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
- ✅ Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV
- ✅ Browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox
- ⚠️ Microsoft Edge (only officially supported by NordVPN)
- ⚠️ Gaming consoles via router setup
- ⚠️ Smart TVs (depending on the model)
Both VPNs work smoothly across all major platforms and offer easy-to-install apps. If you’re planning to use them with gaming consoles or smart TVs, you’ll need to configure them through your router, which might be a bit technical but definitely doable.
Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries
| Country | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| China | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐☆☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆☆☆☆☆ |
| Russia | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐☆☆☆☆ | ⭐⭐☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ |
| Iran | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐☆☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆☆☆☆☆ |
| United Arab Emirates | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐☆☆☆☆ | ⭐⭐☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ |
| Turkey | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆☆☆☆☆ |
| Vietnam | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐☆☆☆☆ | ⭐⭐☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ |
If you travel to or live in countries with strict internet restrictions, NordVPN is a much safer bet. Its obfuscated servers are specifically designed to bypass heavy censorship, keeping your connection fast and stable even in places like China, Russia, or Iran.
PIA, on the other hand, doesn’t offer the same advanced obfuscation technology. In highly restrictive environments, it might struggle to connect—or get blocked altogether.
User Experience & Apps
| Aspect | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Interactive map, very visual | More technical, highly customizable |
| Beginner-Friendly | ✅ Very easy to use | ⚠️ Steeper learning curve |
| Advanced Features | Extensive | Targeted at tech-savvy users |
| Consistency Across Platforms | ✅ Excellent | ⚠️ Somewhat variable |
| Average Connection Time | 5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| App Stability | ✅ Very stable | ✅ Stable |
| Update Frequency | Every 2–3 weeks | Monthly |
If you like things simple and intuitive, NordVPN nails it. Its app is visual, user-friendly, and quick to navigate—perfect if you’re not super tech-savvy or just don’t want to waste time.
PIA is built more for users who like fine-tuning every detail. It offers incredible customization options, but it can feel a bit overwhelming if you’re new to VPNs.
Not entirely convinced by either? Then check out Shellfire VPN. It offers one of the simplest setups on the market and works great across all your devices—no headaches, no hassle.
Customer Support
| Service | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | 24/7, ~2 min response time | 24/7, ~4 min response time |
| Knowledge Base | Very extensive (~1,200 articles) | Moderate (~600 articles) |
| Tutorials | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good |
| Email Support | ~8 hours average | ~15 hours average |
| Contact Channels | Live chat, email, ticket | Live chat, email, ticket |
| Technical Expertise | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Excellent |
Both VPNs offer 24/7 live chat support, but NordVPN tends to respond faster and has a much more extensive knowledge base, which means you might find answers without even needing to talk to support.
PIA also provides very solid support, especially for users who prefer detailed technical guides, although its response times can be slightly longer on average.
Additional Features
| Feature | NordVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Ad Blocking | ✅ (Threat Protection) | ✅ (MACE) |
| Anti-Malware | ✅ | ⚠️ Basic |
| Leak Detection | ✅ (Dark Web Monitor) | ❌ |
| Private Search Engine | ❌ | ❌ |
| Password Manager | ✅ (NordPass) | ❌ |
| Secure Device Network | ✅ (Meshnet) | ❌ |
| Dedicated IP Option | ✅ (paid add-on) | ✅ (paid add-on) |
| Port Forwarding | ❌ | ✅ |
| Automatic IP Rotation | ⚠️ Manual | ❌ |
| Custom Alerts | ✅ | ⚠️ Limited |
NordVPN goes beyond typical VPN features, offering extras like a Dark Web Monitor, a password manager, and a secure device network (Meshnet)—great if you’re looking for a full security suite, not just a VPN.
PIA focuses more on advanced technical features, like port forwarding, which can be very useful if you know how to leverage it—especially for users managing servers or doing heavy torrenting.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use Case | Winner | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | NordVPN | Unlocks more platforms, offers better quality, and fewer interruptions. |
| Torrenting / P2P | NordVPN | Optimized servers, faster speeds, and stronger privacy protections. |
| Gaming | NordVPN | Lower latency, more stable connections, and minimal lag during gameplay. |
| Remote Work | Private Internet Access | Unlimited connections—ideal for multiple devices and remote teams. |
| Budget-Conscious Users | Private Internet Access | Lower cost with unlimited device connections included. |
| Censorship-Heavy Countries | NordVPN | Obfuscated servers work better in restrictive environments. |
Best VPN for Streaming
NordVPN is the clear choice if you want to unlock tons of content. It easily accesses over 15 Netflix libraries, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more—often streaming in flawless 4K. SmartPlay technology handles all the heavy lifting, so you don’t need to tweak anything manually.
PIA can unlock some Netflix libraries but struggles more with stricter platforms like Disney+ and DAZN.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
NordVPN offers specialized P2P servers that deliver higher speeds and better security when downloading files. Plus, with its headquarters in Panama, your privacy remains outside the reach of surveillance alliances.
PIA also supports torrenting across all its servers and offers port forwarding, which is great for frequent file sharers. However, its U.S. jurisdiction could raise privacy concerns for some users.
Best VPN for Gaming
For smooth online gaming, NordVPN takes the crown. It boasts lower ping (38 ms vs. 45 ms for PIA), more stable connections, and less jitter—critical for competitive games like Call of Duty, Fortnite, or Valorant.
PIA is still functional for gaming but can experience speed and ping fluctuations during key moments.
Best VPN for Remote Work
If you work remotely and use multiple devices, Private Internet Access is a very practical choice. It supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it perfect for freelancers, digital nomads, and distributed teams.
NordVPN allows up to 10 devices per account, which covers most needs but might fall short for larger setups.
Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users
PIA easily wins here. Its two-year plan costs just $2.03 per month and covers unlimited devices—ideal if you want strong protection at the lowest possible price.
NordVPN, while slightly more expensive at $3.09/month, offers premium features that may justify the extra cost if you value faster speeds and stronger security tools.
Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries
In places with heavy internet restrictions like China or Iran, NordVPN is clearly superior. Its obfuscated servers are specially built to overcome government blocks, ensuring fast and stable access even under tough conditions.
PIA lacks these advanced bypass technologies, making it less reliable in high-censorship environments.
Conclusion
Both NordVPN and Private Internet Access deliver great value—but the right choice depends on what you need most. If you want unbeatable speed, effortless streaming, smooth gaming, and total freedom even in restrictive countries, NordVPN is the way to go.
If your priority is stretching your budget further while still getting strong protection across unlimited devices, PIA is a smart, practical option that won’t disappoint.
But if what you really want is to make your online life easier—no tech headaches, no complicated setups—then Shellfire VPN has your back. It’s fast, reliable, and even offers a free plan to get you started. Plus, with the Shellfire Box, you can secure your whole home network without lifting a finger.
Find the VPN that matches your world—and if simplicity, security, and freedom sound good to you, head over to Shellfire.net and take control today.
