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PIA VPN Review

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We’re fully independent and have been reviewing VPNs since 2016. Our ratings are based on our own testing results and are unaffected by financial incentives. Learn who we are and how we test VPNs.

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 JP JonesAdditional Testing by Luke Williams

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Our Verdict

Private Internet Access (PIA) offers the best value for money of any VPN we review, including NordVPN and ExpressVPN. It costs just $2.03 per month on a two-year plan, which is 49% cheaper than the industry average, without compromising on quality. At this low price, you get access to a proven no-logs and highly customizable VPN that can be used on an unlimited number of devices for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. It’s only noticeable flaws are a faulty Smart DNS tool and limited access to global streaming platforms.

9.0/10
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. 9.7/10
  2. 6.1/10
  3. 9.7/10
  4. 9.3/10
  5. 9.6/10
  6. 9.7/10
  7. 9.5/10
  8. 9.5/10
  9. 7.7/10

  • Verified no-logs privacy policy
  • Fast connection speeds
  • Highest-rated torrenting VPN
  • Cheap pricing plans compared to rivals
  • Servers available in 50 US states
  • Advanced & customizable encryption

  • Smart DNS tool doesn't work with streaming apps
  • Doesn't unblock many global streaming services
  • Apps require an initial learning curve
  • Paywalls dedicated IP feature

PIA is one of our favorite VPNs to use as it goes above and beyond what is expected from a VPN service. For instance, it is one of only 9 VPNs with a verified no-logs policy, demonstrating its commitment to your privacy, and the only VPN in the world to provide servers in all 50 US states.

This is also reflected in its user-focussed approach to app design, where you are given the choice to customize the UI to your exact needs. For example, you can remove the server list from the home screen or add a toggle that lets you quickly enable port forwarding.

PIA is not without its faults, such as a far weaker streaming performance than comparable VPNs, but its affordable pricing plans make it a worthwhile investment.

If you’re in a hurry, we’ve made a short video review of Private Internet Access that covers all the must-know results from our testing in under a minute:

Video Review

Pricing Plans

1 month$11.99
6 months$45.00 ($7.50/mo)
28 months$56.84 ($2.03/mo)

Free Trial Options

Money-Back Guarantee30 days
Free Trial7 Days (mobile only)
100% Free PlanNo
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