Comparison · VPN services
Mullvad VPN vs Proton VPN: which is better in 2026?
Mullvad VPN ranks higher in our list of VPN services (#1 against #2, score 92.5 against 91.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need.
Choose Mullvad VPN if you want
Anonymous, flat-rate VPN with open-source apps.
Open-source apps, anonymous account numbers and one flat 5 euro monthly price, but no free plan and no port forwarding. It offers fewer extras than the larger brands in this list.
Choose Proton VPN if you want
Free VPN from a Swiss company with open-source apps.
A free VPN plan, open-source clients and a Swiss company base, with paid tiers that bundle other Proton products. Advanced features and the fastest speeds are reserved for the paid plans.
The main differences
- Proton VPN can be used for free; Mullvad VPN requires payment.
Side by side
 Mullvad VPN |  Proton VPN | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 92.5 | 91.0 |
| Rank in list | #1 of 8 | #2 of 8 |
| Price | PaidFlat 5 euros per month for the VPN; no free plan | Free plan, paid upgradesFree VPN; paid Plus and Unlimited plans add features |
| Free to use | No | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | WindowsmacOSLinuxiOSAndroidWindows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | WindowsmacOSLinuxAndroidiOSChromeOSBrowser extensionWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, ChromeOS, Browser extension |
| Made by | Mullvad VPN AB | Not stated |
| Free plan | No | Yes |
| Company base | Sweden | Switzerland (Proton) |
| Best for | Anonymous, flat-rate VPN with open-source apps | Free VPN from a Swiss company with open-source apps |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Mullvad VPN vs Proton VPN
- Is Mullvad VPN better than Proton VPN?
- Mullvad VPN ranks higher in our list of VPN services (#1 against #2, score 92.5 against 91.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Mullvad VPN is best for: anonymous, flat-rate VPN with open-source apps. Proton VPN is best for: free VPN from a Swiss company with open-source apps.
- Which is cheaper, Mullvad VPN or Proton VPN?
- Mullvad VPN: Flat 5 euros per month for the VPN; no free plan. Proton VPN: Free VPN; paid Plus and Unlimited plans add features.
- Do Mullvad VPN and Proton VPN run on the same platforms?
- Mullvad VPN supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android. Proton VPN supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, ChromeOS, Browser extension.