Both Private Internet Access (PIA) and Atlas VPN offer competitive VPN services with strengths in different areas. PIA stands out with its vast server network, independently audited no-logs policy, and extensive security features. Atlas VPN is noted for its user-friendly interface and generally quick customer support. The choice between them depends on the user's specific needs and priorities.
| Attribute | Private Internet Access (PIA) | Atlas VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Server Network Size and Distribution | — | 700+ servers across 42+ countries in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia; limited coverage in Africa. |
| Encryption Protocols | — | WireGuard and IKEv2/IPSec protocols. AES-256 encryption and ChaCha20 with WireGuard. Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS). OpenVPN not supported. |
| Logging Policy | — | No-logs policy, but minimal data is collected for analytics and account management. The no-logs policy has not been independently audited, but security audits of their infrastructure have been performed. |
| Simultaneous Device Connections | — | Unlimited simultaneous connections. |
| Speed Performance (Download/Upload) | — | Good download speeds with WireGuard. Download speeds slightly above baseline speeds, while upload speeds may decrease significantly. |
| Kill Switch Functionality | — | Includes a kill switch feature that cuts off internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. |
| Torrenting Support (P2P) | — | Supports P2P file sharing and torrenting on its servers. P2P is allowed on all servers, including free servers. |
| Streaming Service Compatibility (e.g., Netflix, Hulu) | — | Unblocks Netflix in several countries, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Max. May also work with BBC iPlayer. Disney Plus unblocking has been inconsistent. Offers streaming-optimized servers in some locations. |
| Customer Support Availability and Responsiveness | — | 24/7 live chat for premium users, ticket submission, FAQs, and a knowledge base. Generally quick and polite responses. |
| Price and Subscription Options | — | Free plan with limited server locations and a 5GB monthly data limit. Premium plans include monthly, annual, and 3-year subscriptions. Longer subscriptions offer lower monthly prices. |
| User Interface and Ease of Use | — | User-friendly app, suitable for beginners. Easy to set up and use on different devices and operating systems. |
| Security Features (e.g., ad blocking, malware protection) | — | Data breach monitor, malware blocker, and ad blocker. SafeSwap servers that regularly rotate your IP address. Passed DNS leak tests, proving it can hide your IP address. |