Direct ISP Connection (No VPN) vs Mullvad VPN

By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified Jun 7 by Billy G.

Direct ISP Connection (No VPN)
Mullvad VPN

Verdict: Direct ISP connection delivers full speeds and minimal latency but exposes all traffic to ISP logging. Mullvad VPN adds encryption and no-logs protection at the cost of 5-20% speed reduction and added latency per user reports on WireGuard. Mullvad wins for privacy needs while direct connection is superior for raw performance.

Winner: Mullvad VPN

Direct ISP Connection (No VPN): 6.5/10

Mullvad VPN: 8/10

Spec-by-spec comparison

Direct ISP Connection (No VPN)Mullvad VPN
Latency——
Privacy LevelISP logs activityNo-logs audited
Speed ImpactFull ISP speed5-20% reduction typical
Logging PolicyISP dependentNo logs

Direct ISP Connection (No VPN)

What works

  • Maximum possible download/upload speeds
  • Lowest possible latency for gaming/streaming
  • No additional subscription cost

What doesn't

  • ISP can see and log all traffic
  • No encryption for data in transit

Mullvad VPN

What works

  • Strong no-logs privacy with independent audits
  • WireGuard protocol for efficient encryption
  • Anonymous account with cash/Monero payment

What doesn't

  • Reduces speeds compared to direct connection
  • Adds latency due to routing through servers

Bottom line

Our pick: Mullvad VPN.

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