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Mullvad Review

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Simon Migliano
Simon Migliano

Simon Migliano is a recognized world expert in VPNs. He's tested hundreds of VPN services and his research has featured on the BBC, The New York Times and more. Read full bio

Fact-checked by Callum TennentAdditional Testing by David Hughes

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Our Verdict

Mullvad is a top option if you’re only interested in using a VPN for online privacy and anonymity. It excels in this area, due to its use of WireGuard, ChaCha20 encryption, and a strict no-logs policy. However, it lacks the capability to unblock streaming services, bypass web censorship, or offer features like dedicated IP addresses or port forwarding.

7.6/10
Overall Rating Summary
Best Rating
9.6/10
Average Rating
5.6/10
Worst Rating
1.1/10
This rating is calculated by combining the ratings from our 9 testing categories, each weighted according to its relative importance.
Read our VPN testing methodology to learn more.
  1. 8.7/10
  2. 4.5/10
  3. 9.3/10
  4. 9.7/10
  5. 5.4/10
  6. 9.1/10
  7. 8.0/10
  8. 4.1/10
  9. 5.8/10

  • Extremely safe and private
  • Advanced customization options & SOCKS5
  • Multi-hop servers & obfuscation technology
  • IPv6 support & automatic kill switch
  • Cash payment available
  • Good for Linux users & torrenters

  • Fails to unblock most streaming sites
  • No transparency report or logging audit
  • No live chat support
  • No Fire TV Stick app or Smart DNS
  • Port forwarding removed
  • Firefox proxy extension only

Mullvad VPN has the respect of most privacy advocates due to its impressive security credentials and principled stance on privacy issues.

It offers a straightforward service with robust encryption and privacy features at a flat rate, without unnecessary add-ons.

However, if you want to watch movies and TV from outside your home country, you should not choose Mullvad. It makes no effort to unblock popular services like US Netflix or BBC iPlayer, and lacks streaming-focused features like Smart DNS or Fire TV Stick support.

The service has some inconsistencies across platforms, with features varying between desktop and mobile apps. While Mullvad provides excellent documentation and email support, the lack of live chat support is frustrating if you, like us, sometimes need immediate assistance.

EXPERT ADVICE: ExpressVPN is similarly privacy and security focused as Mullvad, but it beats most streaming geo-blocks.

ExpressVPN’s fast no-logs servers unblocks 18 Netflix regions (including US), HBO Max, and many more streaming services. Use its 100% refund promise and try ExpressVPN for free.

Pricing Plans

1 month$5.50

Free Trial Options

Money-Back Guarantee30 days
Free TrialNo
100% Free PlanNo
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