Private Internet Access review: excellent in 2026
Open-source apps, port forwarding, and a no-logs policy proven in court.
Our verdict
Private Internet Access is the tinkerer's VPN. Every app is open source, the settings panel exposes encryption levels, custom DNS, split tunneling and obfuscation, and it's one of the few major providers that still offers port forwarding, which measurably improved our torrent speeds and matters if you self-host anything.
Its privacy record is unusual: PIA's no-logs claims have been tested by US subpoenas twice, and both times the company had nothing to hand over. That's a stronger proof than any audit. The US jurisdiction still costs it points with privacy absolutists, streaming is only dependable on US libraries, and the apps assume more technical comfort than Nord or Express. At $2.19/mo with unlimited devices, it's a lot of VPN for the money.
Pros & cons
What we liked
- Fully open-source desktop and mobile apps
- Port forwarding for faster torrenting and self-hosting
- Court-proven no-logs record (2016, 2018 subpoenas)
- Unlimited devices on every plan
- Granular controls: split tunneling, custom DNS, obfuscation
What could improve
- US jurisdiction sits at the heart of the 5-Eyes alliance
- Streaming unblocking is hit-and-miss outside US libraries
- Interface buries its best features behind advanced menus
Scores breakdown
Five criteria feed the weighted overall of 8.6/10. Protocols live on the methodology page.
Average download retention across 20 global locations, tested three times daily.
Encryption, protocol quality, independent audits, jurisdiction, and logging history.
Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and live sports across 12 regional libraries.
Design, platform coverage, and setup friction on desktop, mobile, and TV.
Intro and renewal pricing, simultaneous connections, and money-back terms.
Pricing & plans
Private Internet Access starts at $2.19/mo (3-year plan + 4 free months) with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Flexible
30-day guarantee
+4 free months
Private Internet Access FAQ
Has PIA's no-logs policy been proven?
Does PIA support port forwarding?
Is PIA good for beginners?
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