Our Verdict
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a trustworthy VPN, rated 9.3/10 based on our testing criteria. It has great security features, excellent torrenting capabilities, and a court-proven no-logs policy. It’s a VPN that performs very well in every testing category, but it particularly excels when it comes to privacy, local speeds, and value for money. Its apps aren’t quite as slick as its top competitors, and we’re disappointed by its Smart DNS feature, but overall PIA is an excellent VPN that’s well worth its cheap price.
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- Very fast short-distance speeds
- Verified no-logs privacy policy
- Works with US Netflix, BBC iPlayer & more
- Torrenting allowed on all servers
- Servers available in 50 US states
- Advanced & customizable encryption
- Smart DNS tool doesn’t work with streaming apps
- HQ in the USA (FVEY jurisdiction)
- Could be confusing for new users
- Not good for using on a router
This PIA VPN review is the culmination of over seven years of continuous testing and evaluation. In this time our experts have consistently found it to be one of the fastest, safest, and most trustworthy VPNs.
PIA has changed ownership multiple times, and currently belongs to Kape Technologies — owner of other popular VPNs ExpressVPN and CyberGhost.
We’ve assessed Private Internet Access’ logging policy and legal history, its speeds all around the world, and tried torrenting and streaming with it to determine whether or not it’s the right VPN for you.
Who Should Get PIA VPN?
Get PIA VPN if:
- You want an excellent all-around VPN. ExpressVPN is a well-polished option that performs exceptionally well in all of our testing categories.
- You want to access geo-blocked streaming services. ExpressVPN works to unblock every popular streaming service, including US Netflix, Hulu, YouTube TV, and BBC iPlayer.
- You haven’t used a VPN before. ExpressVPN’s apps are easier to use than all other VPN software we’ve reviewed. It requires no learning curve, so you can get started without prior experience.
Avoid PIA VPN if:
- You’re on a tight budget. ExpressVPN is the fourth most expensive VPN of all 65 VPNs that we’ve reviewed.
- You want an all-in-one cybersecurity product. ExpressVPN only includes a VPN, a poor tracker blocker, and a password manager. It won’t protect you from viruses, malware, or ads.
- You need to seed torrent files. ExpressVPN doesn’t support port forwarding, so you won’t be able to connect directly to other users’ torrenting clients.
- You’re on a tight budget. ExpressVPN is the fourth most expensive VPN of all 65 VPNs that we’ve reviewed.
Streaming
Exceptional for Streaming Netflix & Other US Services
Based on our recent tests, we can confirm that PIA now unblocks 6 popular Netflix libraries from around the world, including the US and the UK. Its main downside is that its Smart DNS tool doesn’t work for streaming, so it’s unsuitable for watching your favorite apps on Smart TVs and games consoles.
Ranked #12 out of 65 VPNs for Streaming
Streaming Platform
- Amazon Prime Video
- BBC iPlayer
- Channel 4
- Disney+
- Hotstar India
- Hulu
- ITVX
- Max
- Netflix US
- YouTube TV
Works with ExpressVPN
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
Speed
One of the Fastest VPNs on the Market
PIA is one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested — especially if you’re connecting to a nearby server. It can’t quite match rivals like Hotspot Shield or ExpressVPN when it comes to long-distance connections, but using the WireGuard protocol it’s still faster than the vast majority of VPNs we test. As of July 2024 PIA is the 10th-fastest VPN you can get.
Ranked #5 out of 65 VPNs for Speed
Privacy & Logging Policy
Proven No-Logs VPN Service
Private Internet Access is one of only a few verified no-logs VPN services. It keeps no session, connection, or server data — all it tracks is your basic account information. You can use the service with complete confidence that your IP address and activity are not being monitored, stored, or linked back to you.
Ranked #1 out of 65 VPNs for Privacy & Logging Policy
Private Internet Access Details
