Private Internet Access Review

Overview

Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out as one of the most cost-effective premium VPN services available today, with plans starting at just $2.19/month. Despite its budget-friendly pricing, PIA delivers an impressive array of features that rival much more expensive competitors. With over a decade in the industry, PIA has built a solid reputation for reliability, security, and transparency.

Our Score: 9.5/10
Ranked 3rd out of 198 VPNs

Our Evaluation

Our team conducted extensive testing of Private Internet Access across multiple devices, networks, and use cases. We thoroughly examined its privacy policy, security implementations, and performance metrics. PIA consistently impressed us with its combination of affordability and premium features.

What makes PIA particularly noteworthy is its commitment to transparency. The service operates with fully open-source applications, allowing security experts to verify its code. Additionally, PIA’s no-logs policy has been proven in court multiple times, demonstrating the company’s genuine commitment to user privacy.

Private Internet Access Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements

Pros:

• Industry-leading affordability with premium features
• Unlimited simultaneous device connections
• Highly customizable security settings
• Court-proven no-logs policy
• Fully open-source applications
• Excellent streaming and torrenting capabilities
• Fast WireGuard protocol implementation
• Intuitive, user-friendly interface across all platforms

Cons:

• Based in the United States (5 Eyes alliance)
• Occasional streaming inconsistencies with some platforms
• Advanced customization options might intimidate beginners

PIA Features — 2025 Update

Price

Starting at $2.19/month with frequent special offers and discounts.

Key Features

• Score: 9.0/10
• Military-grade AES-256 encryption (customizable to AES-128 for speed)
• Multiple protocol options including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2
• Customizable encryption levels for performance optimization
• MACE ad, tracker, and malware blocker
• Advanced split tunneling functionality
• Port forwarding capability
• Dedicated IP addresses (available as add-on)
• PIA Antivirus protection (available as add-on)
• Unlimited simultaneous device connections

Streaming

• Score: 9.6/10
• Reliable access to major streaming platforms including Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max
• Some occasional issues with BBC iPlayer and region-specific services
• Optimized streaming servers for better performance
• Smart DNS feature for devices without native VPN support
• 4K streaming capability on most servers

Speed

• Score: 9.0/10
• Excellent speeds with WireGuard protocol
• Strong performance on local connections
• Minimal slowdown on most international servers
• Some performance reduction on very distant connections
• Consistently fast enough for HD streaming and online gaming

Gaming

• Score: 9.0/10
• Low latency suitable for competitive online gaming
• Port forwarding feature beneficial for hosting game servers
• Effective protection against DDoS attacks
• Reliable access to region-restricted games and content
• Stable connections with minimal disconnections

Security and Privacy

PIA offers comprehensive security features including:

• AES-256 encryption with customizable settings
• Multiple secure protocols with WireGuard as the recommended option
• Strict no-logs policy verified through court cases
• Based in the US (5 Eyes alliance) but with proven privacy protection
• Fully open-source applications for maximum transparency
• Regular independent security audits
• Detailed transparency reports
• Perfect forward secrecy
• DNS/IPv6/WebRTC leak protection

Device Compatibility

PIA provides excellent cross-platform support:

• Windows, Mac, Linux with full-featured desktop applications
• iOS and Android with intuitive mobile apps
• Browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Edge
• Smart TVs and streaming devices
• Gaming consoles (via router configuration)
• Compatible with most router firmware

Customer Support

24/7 live chat support with knowledgeable representatives. Additional support options include:

• Comprehensive knowledge base with setup guides
• Detailed troubleshooting articles
• Email ticket support system
• Active community forums
• Video tutorials

Conclusion

Private Internet Access delivers exceptional value by combining budget-friendly pricing with premium VPN features. Its unlimited device connections, highly customizable security settings, and proven privacy protection make it an outstanding choice for both beginners and advanced users. While its US jurisdiction might raise concerns for some privacy-focused users, PIA’s court-proven no-logs policy and transparency measures effectively address these issues. For users seeking a reliable, feature-rich VPN that won’t break the bank, Private Internet Access remains one of the best options available in 2025.