Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a solid baseline for online privacy at a competitive price, but it lags behind top competitors in speed and user experience. While not the fastest or most polished VPN on the market, PIA provides essential security features, unlimited simultaneous connections, and transparency through its open-source apps. This makes it an appealing choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize privacy over peak performance.
Core Features and Performance
PIA boasts over 35,000 servers across 91 countries, giving it broad coverage for streaming, travel, and general use. The service offers customizable apps with features like split tunneling (available on MacOS and Linux) and a kill switch that protects against accidental leaks. However, real-world performance reveals significant speed drops: tests show an average 48% reduction in download speeds, compared to the 25% or less seen with faster VPNs like NordVPN or Surfshark.
This slowdown can be problematic for users with slower connections or those who rely on high bandwidth for streaming. PIA’s server speeds also fluctuate wildly, sometimes dropping from 124Mbps to 54Mbps within minutes. While PIA plans to upgrade its server infrastructure in 2025, current performance remains inconsistent. The service also generates frequent CAPTCHAs, adding friction to browsing and potentially frustrating users.
Transparency and Customization
PIA stands out with its commitment to transparency: its apps are open-source, allowing anyone to inspect the code for security vulnerabilities. This contrasts with many competitors who keep their software proprietary. The service provides granular control over settings, including WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, port forwarding, and multi-hop connections. However, this level of customization can overwhelm casual users who prefer a simpler interface.
Pricing and Value
PIA’s pricing is aggressive: $12 per month, $40 for the first year, or $79 for three years. This makes it one of the cheapest VPNs available, but faster alternatives like Surfshark cost only slightly more and deliver superior performance. PIA also offers optional add-ons, such as a dedicated IP address ($5/month), but these can quickly eat into the cost savings.
The Bottom Line
PIA is a viable option for privacy-focused users on a tight budget, but it’s not the fastest or most user-friendly VPN. Its middling speeds, frequent CAPTCHAs, and occasionally clunky interface hold it back from competing with premium services. If performance is a priority, spending a bit more on Surfshark or NordVPN will yield a smoother, more reliable experience.
Ultimately, PIA delivers privacy at a price—the trade-off being speed and convenience.
