Updated on July 2025

Mullvad VPN Review: Privacy-First, But UI Feels Outdated

Mullvad is a respected name in privacy circles—transparent, independent, and focused on user anonymity. It’s one of the few VPNs that accepts anonymous cash payments and doesn’t ask for an email. While it's strong on privacy, its interface and usability may not appeal to the average user.

8.5
 Our Rate
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Protected and Dependable
Safe & Secure

Email Support

UI & UX: Functional, But Feels Dated

 

Mullvad runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. The Windows app feels like a throwback to early 2000s media players. On mobile and macOS, the limited screen layout creates a sense of clutter and constraint. There's a UI Settings section, but it's minimal and offers little practical customization.

 

Feature Highlights

 

Despite the plain UI, Mullvad includes advanced tools for privacy:

 

  • DAITA – A feature that protects users from AI-driven targeting and profiling.
     

  • MultiHop – Routes traffic through multiple servers for stronger privacy.
     

  • Split Tunneling – Lets you choose which apps bypass the VPN tunnel.
     

  • Lockdown Mode – A stronger kill switch that blocks all traffic when the VPN disconnects.
     

  • DNS Blockers – Lets you filter out ads, trackers, gambling, and malware domains.
     

  • API Access – Offers developer tools, encrypted DNS proxy, and Shadowsocks bridges for bypassing censorship.
     

Despite these, Mullvad does not block potentially risky sites like pcapp.store or moviegratuit.com.

 

Security & Protocols

 

  • Fully open-source and independently audited.
     

  • Uses anonymous account numbers—no email or personal info required.
     

  • Offers WireGuard and OpenVPN only—reliable, but no newer protocols like IKEv2 or proprietary ones.
     

  • No activity logs are stored. Session data is optional and minimal.
     

Speed & Streaming

 

Speeds are strong on WireGuard and sufficient for general use. However, Mullvad doesn't focus on streaming and may not unblock platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer consistently.

 

Pricing: Simple and Transparent

 

Mullvad uses a single, flat-rate pricing model. It costs $5.86 per month, with no discounts for longer commitments. There are no surprise renewals, and you can pay using anonymous methods like cash or voucher, along with standard options like card or PayPal.

 

Add-ons: None. Mullvad remains strictly a VPN service.

 

Feedback on Add-ons: A rare minimalist in a bloated field—ideal for users who want privacy without upselling or fluff.

 

Customer Support

 

Support is via email only—no live chat. Documentation is extensive, and responses are typically informed and privacy-focused, though not instant.

 

Final Thoughts

Mullvad delivers a no-nonsense, privacy-first VPN experience. It’s a favorite among developers and security-conscious users, but it’s not built for everyone.

 

Best for: Privacy purists, tech-savvy users, and those who value anonymity over convenience.


Not ideal for: Casual users, streamers, or those who want a sleek, beginner-friendly interface.

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