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Research basis: research-based
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Private Internet Access

Budget-friendly, privacy-focused VPN with unmatched server scale and open-source transparency

Private Internet Access is an affordable VPN service operating 35,000+ servers across 91 countries with a verified no-logs policy and open-source apps. It supports unlimited simultaneous connections, advanced customisation, and comprehensive torrenting on all servers, positioning itself as a value-oriented alternative to pricier VPN providers.

VpnPrivate Internet Access Inc.
Real cost
$2.19/mo
2-Year (Best Value)
RC Score
8.2/10
0 user reviews
User rating
0.0/5
Verified
Basis: research-based
The methodology

How we scored it

Six-factor weighted score. Each dimension scored 0–10 by our editorial team across testing periods of 3–18 months. No vendor influence.

Value for money25%
9.2/10
Features20%
8.0/10
Ease of use15%
8.3/10
Support quality15%
7.2/10
Deal strength15%
0.0/10
User feedback10%
0.0/10
Pricing

What it actually costs

Intro pricing shown — see the renewal note for what you'll pay after the introductory term. We don't hide the second-act price.

★ Best Value

Monthly

$11.99/mo intro
Get this plan

6-Month

$7.5/mo intro
Get this plan

2-Year (Best Value)

$2.19/mo intro
Get this plan

The real cost

What you'll actually pay across 4 years, including the renewal cliff. We blend the math so you see the true monthly cost.

1y4y intro8y
Intro period
$575.52
48 mo @ $11.99
Total cost
$575.52
≈ $11.99/mo blended
Renewal
$0
Within intro term
The renewal cliff

When the bill actually arrives

Most hosts advertise intro pricing prominently and renewal pricing in the fine print. Here\'s the trajectory drawn to scale.

Y0Y1Y2Y3Y4Y5Y6Y7Y8▼ Renewal cliff$11.99/mo$11.99/mo $0$7$14
Intro period (months 1–48)Renewal pricing (month 49+)
Head to head

Private Internet Access against the field

The highest-scoring alternatives in the same category, compared on the figures we hold for all of them.

 Private Internet AccessThis pageExpressVPNProton VPN
ReviewCost score8.2/108.6/108.4/10
Cheapest plan2-Year (Best Value)
From$2.19/mo$3.49/mo
Renews atNot publishedNot publishedNot published
Biggest strengthExceptionally affordable pricing at $2.19/month on 2-year plan, significantly lower than industry averageProprietary Lightway protocol delivers consistently fast speeds, particularly with Lightway Turbo on WindowsAudited no-logs policy and full open-source codebase provide exceptional transparency
Biggest drawbackInconsistent speed performance across server locations with notable variability between connection sessionsDevice limits (10/12/14) lag behind competitors like Surfshark and PIA that offer unlimited simultaneous connectionsNo 24/7 live chat support—email-only, with 1-3 day response times reported

Prices are the published figures at the time of writing and change often. Renewal pricing is shown where the vendor publishes it. See how we review.

Common questions

What people ask about Private Internet Access

Straight answers to what buyers actually ask, drawn from the documentation and published user reports.

Is Private Internet Access safe to use?
Yes. PIA has a verified no-logs policy independently audited by Deloitte in 2022, 2024, and 2025, and uses open-source WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols. However, it is based in the US, which introduces regulatory risk compared to privacy-haven jurisdictions. The no-logs audits substantiate privacy claims, but context matters for your threat model.
Can I use PIA for streaming and unblocking geoblocked content?
PIA can unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and other platforms, but performance is inconsistent. Some servers work reliably while others struggle, and speed variability may cause buffering. If streaming is your primary use case, NordVPN or Surfshark are more reliable alternatives.
Is the $2.19/month price sustainable or will it increase?
Renewal rates jump to $4.75/month after the initial 2-year term expires, but this is transparent and predictable. PIA has historically increased prices with feature additions, so long-term plans are recommended to lock in current rates.
How many devices can I connect simultaneously?
All PIA plans include unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it one of the few VPNs with no per-device limits regardless of subscription length.