Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption and support OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. NordVPN uses AES-256-GCM with SHA-512, while PIA allows switching between AES-128 and AES-256 with HMAC-SHA-256 (recommended).

NordVPN is based in Panama, outside the Five Eyes. PIA is based in the US—part of the surveillance alliance. Both have RAM-only servers, meaning data is wiped with each reboot.

Unique Tools

• NordVPN: Threat Protection Pro, Meshnet, Onion over VPN, Double VPN, Obfuscated servers.
  

• PIA: MACE ad blocker, Identity Guard, port forwarding.
  

Note: MACE is less effective against ads delivered via HTTPS. Identity Guard only works via their website, not in-app.

Winner: NordVPN.

Cybernews tests show:

NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol beats PIA’s WireGuard consistently. Especially during streaming or large file transfers, the difference is noticeable.

Winner: NordVPN.

NordVPN supports Netflix (US, UK, Japan, etc.), Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more.

PIA works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu—but struggles with Disney+ and Max, and performance includes buffering and errors.

NordVPN also includes SmartPlay (Smart DNS + encryption) for better compatibility.

Winner: NordVPN.

Nordvpn vs private internet access for torrenting: Speed vs Control

• NordVPN: Fast P2P-optimized servers, no manual configuration.
  

• PIA: All servers allow torrents, supports port forwarding and includes SOCKS5 proxy.
  

NordVPN auto-switches to P2P servers, making setup easier. PIA is better for advanced users needing fine-tuned seeding.

Winner: Draw.

Winner: NordVPN.

Caption: Private Internet Access vpn vs Nordvpn

Both VPNs offer clean and responsive apps on desktop and mobile. NordVPN includes a map interface and quick-connect. PIA gives more control over protocol and encryption.

NordVPN’s app experience is smoother across devices. PIA’s interface is more technical.

Winner: Draw.

Device Connections

• NordVPN: 10 device limit.
  
  

• PIA: Unlimited devices on one account.
  
  

Winner: PIA.

Support and Customer Experience

• Both offer 24/7 live chat and email support.
  
  

• NordVPN’s support is faster and more helpful in user reports.
  
  

• PIA’s responses can be slower, and troubleshooting steps are less effective.
  
  

Winner: NordVPN.

Infrastructure and Transparency

• Server Type: Both use RAM-only servers.
  
  

• Virtual Servers: PIA uses more virtual locations. NordVPN avoids them.
  
  

• Audits: NordVPN has undergone 5+ independent audits (PwC, Deloitte). PIA has completed one (Deloitte Romania).
  
  

• Ownership: PIA is owned by Kape Technologies. NordVPN is owned by Nord Security, based in Panama.
  
  

Winner: NordVPN.

Pricing and Plan Structure

PIA is cheaper overall. NordVPN offers multiple tiers (Plus, Complete, Prime) with extra features.

Winner: PIA on price, NordVPN on value.

Final Verdict

If you want top speed, reliable streaming, a wide range of privacy tools, and a trustworthy jurisdiction—NordVPN is the better choice.

If you’re on a tight budget, want unlimited device use, and don’t mind a few trade-offs, PIA still offers solid basics.

1. Which VPN is faster?
NordVPN. NordLynx consistently retains over 85% of base speeds.

2. Does PIA work with Disney+ or Max?
No, PIA struggles with these platforms.

3. Is PIA open-source?
Yes. All client apps are open source.

4. Which has better threat protection?
NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro is more powerful than PIA’s MACE.

5. Does NordVPN have a better jurisdiction?
Yes. NordVPN is based in Panama; PIA is in the US.

6. Which is better for torrenting?
Both are secure and effective. PIA has port forwarding; NordVPN offers faster speeds.

7. Which is more private?
NordVPN: multiple audits, Panama base, strict no-logs. PIA: US-based, one audit, still good.

8. What’s the best value?
NordVPN offers better features; PIA is cheaper. Depends on your needs.