Avoid Free VPNs That Sell Your Data: Proton VPN vs Mullvad
Concerned about public Wi-Fi or regional access restrictions? Compare Proton VPN and Mullvad on free plans, privacy policies and speed to choose a reliable VPN.
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🛑 Is Your Internet Traffic Exposed?
On public Wi-Fi in a café or an insecure hotel network, browsing history, account passwords and even conversations can be intercepted by attackers. Some websites and services also limit access by region.
Start protecting your connection with Proton VPN for free
A VPN, or virtual private network, acts as protection for your internet connection. It encrypts traffic and hides your actual IP address. The problem is that many free VPNs secretly log activity and sell it to advertisers.
⚔️ The Main Difference: A Generous Free Plan vs Minimal-Identity Signup
| Area | Proton VPN: an all-rounder | Mullvad: focused on anonymity |
|---|---|---|
| Free allowance | Free, ad-free, with unlimited data and no speed limit. Only server countries and device counts are restricted. | No free plan. Payment is required, with options including cryptocurrency and cash by mail. |
| Registration | Requires an email address; Proton Mail or a temporary address can be used. | No personal information required. Generate a random account number without even providing an email address. |
| Privacy policy | A Swiss company protected by strict privacy laws. Independent audits confirm its no-logs policy. | A Swedish company known for anonymity. Multiple audits also support its no-logs policy. |
| Additional features | NetShield is included free to block ads, trackers and malware. | A focused VPN connection without unnecessary extras, prioritising speed and privacy. |
| Best for | Everyday public Wi-Fi protection, access to region-restricted content and users seeking a quality free VPN. | Technical users, journalists and activists with demanding anonymity requirements who are willing to pay. |
🏆 Why Consider Proton VPN's Free Plan?
Most free VPNs compromise somewhere: speed limits, data caps, intrusive ads or even selling user information.
Proton VPN is one of the few established services offering a genuinely free plan with unlimited data.
- No advertisements: A clean interface without pop-ups.
- No data cap: Use it for high-definition video or large downloads.
- NetShield protection: The free plan blocks website ads and malicious trackers for a better browsing experience.
🤔 Who Should Choose Mullvad?
- You do not want to leave registration details, including an email address.
- You are willing to pay with cryptocurrency or cash sent by mail.
- You have demanding requirements for speed or particular servers, with enough budget to pay.
🚀 A Practical Approach: Match the Service to Your Needs
- Everyday use on a free plan: Proton VPN Free protects public Wi-Fi connections and can help access some content across regions.
- Demanding privacy or technical needs: Mullvad may fit if you do high-risk investigative work or place exceptionally high importance on anonymity.
🎁 Start with Proton VPN for Free
Avoid free VPNs that sell your information. Proton VPN's free plan gives you a different starting point.
Start protecting your connection with Proton VPN for free
💡 Tips to avoid problems:
- A VPN is not a cure-all: It does not prevent viruses or make you completely anonymous. If you sign in to a Google account, Google still knows who you are.
- Follow local laws: Make sure your use of a VPN complies with the laws in your country or region.
- Try the free plan first: Download the app, connect and test the speed. If it suits you, consider Plus for faster servers and P2P support.
💡 Disclosure: This article contains Proton VPN affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you buy through them.