Author: ashleyeggens

In the VPN business, there are numerous paths to success. To attract customers, many services innovate and provide new features. Others, on the other hand, don’t wander as often and instead seek to improve on the formula. Success isn’t really guaranteed no matter which path they take.

We’ll be comparing Hotspot Shield with ExpressVPN this time. Hotspot Shield is a VPN that is well-known for its fast connection speeds, free version, and general performance. Meanwhile, while ExpressVPN is more costly than the standard VPN, it excels in a variety of areas.

So, when you examine Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN closely, what other differences do you notice? Let us have a look.

Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN: A Face Off!

	ExpressVPN	Hotspot Shield
Trustpilot Rating:	4.6	4.7
Servers:	3000+ servers in 94 countries	1800+ servers in 80+ countries
Logs policy:	No logs	No logs
Pricing:	Starts from $8.32/month	Starts from $7.99/month
VPN protocols:	Lightway, L2TP/IPsec, OpenVPN, IKEv2	Catapult Hydra, IKEv2
Streaming Compatibility:	Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, DAZN, Hotstar	Netflix, YouTube,BBC iPlayer
Platforms:	Linux, Windows, iOS, Firefox, Chrome, macOS, and Android	iOS, Linux, Windows, Mac, and Android
Simultaneous connections:	5 devices	5 devices
Support:	FAQs, knowledge base, 24/7 live chat, email support	knowledge base, email support, 24/7 live chat, FAQs

Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN speed test: Which is faster?

Because both VPN companies use proprietary tunneling protocols, the speed tests were very fascinating. Lightway is used by ExpressVPN, while Hydra is used by Hotspot Shield.

Let’s compare the speeds of both VPNs based on the formula: 100 Mbps download speed/100 Mbps upload speed to determine which is faster among the two:

	ExpressVPN	Hotspot Shield
Lightway/Hydra	85/72 Mbps	86/65 Mbps
IKEv2	83/66 Mbps	84/40 Mbps

Both VPNs had similar speeds, with ExpressVPN having faster upload speeds and Hotspot Shield with quicker download speeds. Given that streaming 4K video requires only a 25 Mbps connection, both of these VPNs ought to be able to handle whatever you throw at them.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN streaming capabilities; Which one unblocks more platforms?

When it concerns to pure unblocking power, ExpressVPN comes out on top. It not only gave us access to a wide range of geo-restricted streaming services, but it also gave us access to nearly a dozen Netflix libraries.

This is a tough achievement, but one that more than a third of VPN users wish to accomplish because they want to circumvent geographical restrictions.

While Hotspot Shield didn’t perform as well as the top VPNs in terms of streaming, it did show that it is capable of competing with them. It only had difficulty with the most popular streaming providers, and it had no trouble unblocking moderately popular channels.

Hotspot Shield, in particular, can access several of the most popular Netflix libraries, something that few other VPNs can do.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Torrenting

Torrenting and P2P is another category where the two are nearly equal, but ExpressVPN takes the lead once more. The element that pushed it over the finish line this time was port forwarding.

Aside from that, both providers enable P2P traffic on their whole network of servers. Neither of them offers a SOCKS5 proxy, that would make them strong rivals for the best torrent VPN. Fortunately, both VPNs support split tunneling.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Features overview

Both VPNs offer an array of features to users. However, there are a few prominent ones that make the VPNs stand out. Let’s check them out:

Smart DNS

Smart DNS is great for unblocking platforms on devices that do not natively support VPN connections.

Hotspot Shield lacks the Smart DNS functionality, which would put it on line with other excellent VPNs for streaming. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN offers a feature called MediaStreamer that allows the VPN to unblock material on a variety of services.

Split tunneling

Both VPNs were found to offer a robust split tunneling feature that you can use to divide apps and sites among the ones that you want the VPN connection on, and the ones on which you don’t.

When using Hotspot Shield, you’ll see a function called SmartVPN, which is similar to split tunneling. Surprisingly, the VPN allows you to choose not only apps but also websites, which is extremely convenient.

Malware Blocking

When you’re about to visit an infected website, Hotspot Shield informs you, keeping you from falling prey to phishing scams or malware. However, sadly, ExpressVPN offers no such feature.

Cybersecurity suite

You will get more than just a VPN when you buy Hotspot Shield Premium. The list is as follows:

• Aura antivirus – The Premium subscription offers an antivirus with real-time security. However, keep in mind that it is only compatible with Windows and Mac.
• 1Password – It is a password manager that automates the completion of internet forms and passwords. It’s one of the most secure and effective password managers on the market. It comes with 1 GB of document storage.
• Spam-call blocker (Robo Shield) – This is an Android and iOS feature that flags calls coming from unknown numbers as spam.

Final Result: Hotspot Shield is the Winner!

Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN security: which is more safe?

In terms of security, the two are not on same footing. But there are some typical details that come up, so let’s start there.

Encryption and tunneling protocols

ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway tunneling protocol, which is geared for security, speed, and stability, is the company’s key selling point. Users can also connect via OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, or use the oldest L2TP protocol.

Hotspot Shield, on the other hand, only allows you to use IKEv2 or its own Hydra protocol. Hydra, according to the company, helps you to connect faster and provides faster long-distance connections than OpenVPN.

Both services use 256-bit AES encryption, which is so strong that this would take an attacker decades to crack without the precise decryption key. ExpressVPN, on the other hand, employs 4096-bit RSA keys, which are twice as lengthy as Hotspot Shield’s.

While neither is particularly vulnerable to cracking, the increased length makes brute force attacks on ExpressVPN’s keys more difficult.

Logging

As for the Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN logging policies, neither service saves any information that could be used to identify you. Hotspot Shield does maintain session duration data and a log of the websites you visit, but it does so in such a way that nothing can be traced back to a single user.

ExpressVPN stores only the minimal connection logs, which include the time and date of your connection. None of this information, however, may be used to identify you.

Kill Switch

Each of these VPNs has a kill switch that prevents data from being sent if your connection is lost. This way, you’ll never browse without protection even by accident. Furthermore, they both encrypt your information in specific techniques.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Plans pricing

Prices and Plans	ExpressVPN	Hotspot Shield
Periods	1 month	Basic
	6 months	Premium
	1 year	Premium Family
Special offers and discounts	35% off on 1 year plan	38% off on the Premium plan
Lowest price per month	$8.32/month	$7.99/month
Highest price per month	$12.95/mo	$11.99/mo

Hotspot Shield has fewer price choices, but it is one notch less expensive, and the plans are divided into tiers that incorporate additional protection software. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN is more expensive but offers more plans and payment alternatives.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

China and countries with restricted internet access

ExpressVPN and Hotspot Shield both allow you to bypass the restrictions and freely browse the internet in China.

The best part is that, unlike many other VPNs, ExpressVPN and Hotspot Shield don’t require you to do anything special in order to surf safely in the country.

Due to the fact that both services’ websites are now restricted, you’ll have to install them before visiting China. However, while you might not be able to access Hotspot Shield within the country at all, ExpressVPN does offer a mirror site that allows Chinese users to install the VPN from inside the country.

It’s also a good idea to save the manual setup instructions in case you need to troubleshoot after you arrive.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Server locations

The server infrastructure of these VPNs share a lot of similarities. ExpressVPN has 3000+ servers and 94 countries to choose from, whereas Hotspot Shield has 1800+ servers and 85+ countries. With such a huge number of servers, it’s not unexpected that neither of them owns the entire fleet.

However, ExpressVPN has one card up its sleeve that could resolve the dispute. That’s TrustedServer technology, meaning means their servers run entirely on RAM and don’t save any data on hard drives. When using ExpressVPN, this is a huge privacy plus.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN device compatibility: Interface & Ease of Use

	Hotspot Shield	ExpressVPN
OS supported	Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android	Mac, iOS, Linux, Windows, and Android
Other devices and operating systems	Fire TVs & Android TVs	Kodi, Android TVs, and Fire TV devices
Browser extensions	Chrome	Chrome, Edge, & Firefox
Simultaneous connections	Five	Five

Now that we’re almost at the end, let’s review the apps of bith VPNs on all major operating systems and decide which is better: Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN.

Desktop apps

Both VPNs come with easy-to-use desktop applications. On the main interface, ExpressVPN has a huge quick-connect button and a server list that is divided into categories. Users can look at recommended servers or all of the locations on a specific continent.

The settings menu is similarly divided into tabs and provides straightforward descriptions. This keeps things clutter-free and straightforward enough for almost anyone to understand.

The desktop interface for Hotspot Shield is similar, but it organizes its servers alphabetically, with the UK and US servers appearing first. There’s also a fast access option with your two most often visited locations.

You can also search for your preferred country directly if you like. The settings are well-organized, and it’s simple to figure out what they do. Even better, you may start a live chat conversation right from the support tab.

Mobile apps

ExpressVPN has done an excellent job of ensuring a similar user experience throughout all of its apps. In fact, the mobile version is nearly identical to the desktop one.

The only noticeable change is in the settings menu, which lacks some functionality (such as using only ExpressVPN’s DNS servers). It’s worth noting, though, that a full array of security protections is still available.

The mobile app for Hotspot Shield is actually more entertaining to use than the PC version. This is because it removes the majority of the clutter from the sidebar, making it far easier to discover what you need.

It also enables you to connect to the internet or access settings right from the home screen. For what it’s worth, the options haven’t changed much; the only distinction is that you can’t choose which protocol to use manually anymore.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Customer support

Both VPNs offer email and live chat service 24/7. Hotspot Shield, on the other hand, only provides this service to premium subscribers. Instead, this VPN advises free users to search the extensive knowledge library for answers.

ExpressVPN has a searchable library of FAQs as well as a YouTube channel with video tutorials.

In general, live chat is the best option if you need assistance. This option, however, may not always be available, for example, if you’re travelling in China.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN – The Winner?

ExpressVPN is the winner of our Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN comparison!  This service, while slightly slower, provides access to a larger number of countries and unblocks a considerably wider of streaming platforms.

It also has a long list of security and privacy features, including the possibility to register anonymously with Bitcoin, which Hotspot Shield does not.

ExpressVPN is a good alternative if you want to browse without being tracked by the government or simply stream Netflix from another country.

FAQs

Is ExpressVPN worth the money?

ExpressVPN a fantastic VPN. You won’t find a suitable all-around VPN if money isn’t a factor. ExpressVPN excels in all areas, including security, speed, unblocking geo-restricted websites, circumventing censorship, and customer service.

It’s something we’d suggest to everybody, from newcomers to seasoned VPN users.

Is ExpressVPN better than Hotspot Shield?

Yes, ExpressVPN is better and faster than Hotspot Shield. If speed is crucial to you, we suggest checking out ExpressVPN.

Read more Comparisons!

• ExpressVPN vs Cyberghost
• Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
• ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
• ExpressVPN vs PIA
• ExpressVPN vs IPVanish
• ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN

We’ll be honest: we trust both ProtonVPN and ExpressVPN to secure our online privacy when it comes to VPNs. We wouldn’t continue to put them on our best VPNs recommendations if we didn’t. However, this does not imply that they are identical.

To mask our location, ExpressVPN uses rotating IP addresses, whereas ProtonVPN uses static, shared ones. Which of these two VPNs should you choose? Below, in our ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN comparison, we will go over all of the finer points to assist you in making your decision.

ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN: A Face Off!

	ExpressVPN	ProtonVPN
Trustpilot Rating:	4.6	2.6
Servers:	3000+ servers in 94 countries	1700+ servers in 63 countries
Logs policy:	No logs	No logs
Pricing:	Starts from $8.32/month	Starts from €4.99/month
VPN protocols:	Lightway, L2TP/IPsec, OpenVPN, IKEv2	OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec
Streaming Compatibility:	Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Netflix, and more	Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, and more
Platforms:	Windows, Linux, Chrome, Edge, Firefox, macOS, iOS, and Android	Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
Simultaneous connections:	5 devices	10 devices
Support:	24/7 live chat, knowledge base, FAQs, email support	knowledge base, email support

Speed comparison: ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN

We conducted a ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN speed test to figure out how fast these VPNS are. We dove into each of their protocols and tested them on our baseline testing formula: 100 Mbps download speed/100 Mbps upload speed.

Here are the results:

Protocols	ExpressVPN	ProtonVPN
Lightway (ExpressVPN)	87/65	–
IKEv2	82/59	66/17
OpenVPN (TCP)	78/46	50/21
OpenVPN (UDP)	75/47	45/29

In our ExpressVPN speed test, we only saw a 13% decrease in download speed on its Lightway protocol, which is really impressive. Our quickest speeds were on local servers (in the United States), but we were also able to sustain them on servers in Europe, Japan, India, Brazil, and Australia.

The speeds were also great on its other protocols, with a maximum decrease of 25% on its OpenVPN UDP protocol.

Although ProtonVPN isn’t as quick as ExpressVPN, we were still able to torrent, browse, stream, and play games over most servers without experiencing any noticeable delays.

Overall, ProtonVPN reduced our speed by roughly 22% on WireGuard, which was not bad. We had amazing download speeds on nearby servers, just like ExpressVPN, however our download speeds plummeted on distant servers – while our internet activity was unaffected.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Netflix and streaming platforms; Which one unblocks more?

In our ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN streaming tests, we were able to enjoy TV episodes and movies on Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, ESPN+, Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and even lesser-known applications like DAZN, Sling TV, and Comedy Central using ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN’s DNS solution (named MediaStreamer) also allows you to watch streaming video on devices that don’t ordinarily accept VPN connections, such as game consoles and Apple TV.

Accessing streaming services with ProtonVPN is a breeze as well. In our tests, ProtonVPN had no trouble accessing Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and a variety of other streaming apps, similar to ExpressVPN (albeit ProtonVPN’s Free plan does not support streaming).

Also, you cannot access any lesser known apps with ProtonVPN, like DAZN, FXNOW, Kayo Sports, and more.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Torrenting

Torrenting is an excellent way of transferring huge files like music and movies. Unfortunately, because torrenting is a grey area when it comes to copyright regulations, it can be dangerous.

ExpressVPN is a fast VPN service (thanks to Lightway). It has the ability to securely disguise your IP address, retain no logs, and provide excellent leak protection. The Network Lock (kill switch) protects you against IP and DNS leaks in a very safe manner. This enables you to torrent for hours without the fear of being interrupted.

ProtonVPN tested to be slower than ExpressVPN, which can have a negative impact on torrent speeds. ProtonVPN’s paid plans include complete torrenting capability, as well as no logs and leak prevention. However, if you’re anything like us, you’ll want the quickest speeds available.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Features Overview

ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN offer a variety of features to its users for security, privacy, and accessing geo-restricted platforms. Let’s look at few of them below:

Split tunneling

Split tunneling allows you to use the VPN connection for specific apps. This could be handy if you want to use a VPN to unblock geo-restricted services while using your regular connection to ensure the fastest possible download speeds.

Split tunneling is supported by both ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN. ExpressVPN, on the other hand, offers this feature on all platforms, whilst ProtonVPN only offers it on Windows and Android.

Ad-blocker

ProtonVPN features a built-in ad blocker and scans files you downloaded for malware automatically. ExpressVPN does not have this capability, but it does have Firefox and Chrome extensions that let you control the app from your browser.

It can also be set to automatically connect whenever you connect to an unprotected wireless network. This is especially useful if you travel frequently because you’ll be relying on public wi-fi networks, which are infamously insecure.

RAM-only servers

ExpressVPN’s network is exclusively made up of RAM-only servers, meaning that whenever a server is reset, all data saved on it is gone forever. This goes a long way toward defending their no-log policy; even if they intended to breach their consumers’ privacy, it would be impossible. The information is just no longer available.

However, the feature isn’t available on ProtonVPN.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Proton VPN vs ExpressVPN: which is more secure?

As for the ProtonVPN vs NordVPN security, both of these VPNs don’t only talk about privacy. They’ve both taken steps to ensure that even if they were served with a warrant, they wouldn’t be able to hand out our information. AES-256 bit encryption, no traffic tracking policies, and more are among their security features. Let’s have a look at them now:

Encryption and tunneling protocols

The OpenVPN protocol is supported by both of these services. This is the industry standard and, in most cases, your best bet. ExpressVPN, on the other hand, supports the L2TP and IKEv2 protocols, as well as Lightway, its own proprietary security mechanism.

Lightway is faster than OpenVPN, great for long connections, and it will shortly be made open-source, allowing for full privacy auditing. IKEv2 is an option with ProtonVPN for mobile.

Both ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN use 4096-bit RSA keys and 256-bit AES encryption. This is incredibly secure, without being too technical. Without the correct decryption key, even the world’s best computers would take thousands of years to crack this degree of security.

Logging

As for the ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN logging policies, both VPNs clearly value your privacy. ExpressVPN is not obligated to store logs. As a result, it merely saves your connection date, the server you selected, and the amount of data sent.

ProtonVPN keeps no logs that might be used to identify you, simply the date and time you last connected.

Kill Switch

Kill switches are included into both firms’ services. This means that if our router went down for some reason, all of our browsers would go down with it. There was no way our site’s history could be discovered by accident.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Plans and Pricing

Prices and Plans	ExpressVPN	ProtonVPN
Periods	1 month	1 month
	6 months	1 year
	1 year	2 years
Special offers and discounts	35% off on the 1-year plan	–
Lowest price per month	$8.32/month	€4.99/month
Highest price per month	$12.95/mo	€9.99/mo

Both of these VPNs can be subscribed to at a similar cost. However, ProtonVPN offers a free plan to users with multiple limitations. Both VPNs are backed with risk-free 30-day money-back guarantees as well for testing them out.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

China and countries with restricted internet access

China has some of the world’s strongest and most widespread internet restriction policies.

Fortunately, ExpressVPN continues to function flawlessly in China. There are no manual setup requirements or changes to be made to the settings. This service even has a mirror site that you can visit in China (but you’ll have to request for the address before you go).

Regrettably, ProtonVPN is no longer available in China. The appropriate support post on the website indicates that the service is looking into the matter, but the page hasn’t been updated since 2019, so you shouldn’t rely on it if you’re planning a trip to China.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Server locations

ExpressVPN beats ProtonVPN when it comes to network size with 3000+ servers in 94 countries. It not only gives you access to 3 times as many servers, but it also gives you access to servers in an extra 30 countries.

However, ProtonVPN’s network is approximately what you’d expect from a mid-tier provider; offering 1700+ servers in 63 countries. Also, there are plenty of subscription providers with fewer servers available.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Interface & Ease of Use

	ProtonVPN	ExpressVPN
OS supported	iOS, Windows, Mac, and Android	Mac, iOS, Linux, Windows, and Android
Other devices and operating systems	Android TVs and Fire TVs	Fire TV devices, Kodi, and Android TVs
Browser extensions	Safari, Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera	Firefox, Brave, Edge, Chrome, and Vivaldi
Simultaneous connections	Ten	Five

For the most popular platforms, each of these services has an easy-to-use app. For testing the ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN device compatibility and deeming which VPN is better, we used them both on our devices, and here is all that we discovered:

Desktop apps

The ExpressVPN desktop app includes a large quick connection button as well as a server list organized by continent. Of course, if you like, you can search for a certain country. The settings menu is divided into numerous tabs to keep things organized.

We enjoyed how informative the option names are, as well as how the VPN provides examples of when you would need to update them.

The desktop interface for ProtonVPN allows you to select a server from a map or a list. Alternatively, if you wish to utilize a different server every time, you can set up distinct profiles. Most features are activated with a simple toggle switch on the server menu, which is minimalistic and easy to navigate.

However, the NetShield and kill switch must be enabled from the main screen, which seems contradictory given that these are two of the most essential security tools available.

Mobile apps

On mobile devices, ExpressVPN is almost identical. The settings menu is missing a handful of elements (DNS server selection and IPv6 leak protection).

You can, however, opt to connect automatically whenever you use an unprotected network, which isn’t available on the desktop versions of the app.

For mobile users, ProtonVPN’s layout is slightly different, with the map, server list, and profile list separated into distinct tabs. Furthermore, rather than having the quick connect button visible at all times, users must click a popup at the bottom of the screen to activate it.

This isn’t immediately apparent the first time you use the app, and it will take some time to get used to. The IPV6 leak protection and the ability to connect automatically when opening the app have also been disabled.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Customer support

ExpressVPN’s customer service is outstanding, with a comprehensive collection of troubleshooting instructions, video setup tutorials, a large number of FAQs, 24/7 live chat, and email assistance.

The live chat is available 24/7, and we were always connected to a support representative in about 15 seconds, and every rep was quick, knowledgeable, helpful, and polite. We tested the email support a few times and had a response within a couple hours each time, which is very typical for a VPN.

ProtonVPN’s customer care is adequate, but not as good as ExpressVPN.

ProtonVPN has excellent support guides that are organized by category and provide in-depth information, but email assistance is lacking (We had to wait for nearly a day for a response, which, however, was helpful), and there is no live chat.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN – The Winner?

In the end, the real question arises “Which is better: ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN?” Although it was close, ExpressVPN emerged victorious in this head-to-head competition.

It’s certainly the superior pick if you’re an international traveler, with over 3000 servers in 94 different countries. It also has substantially quicker download speeds, which is important if you use streaming services.

However, ProtonVPN may be preferred by some users. It’s a few dollars less expensive, and it has faster upload rates for individuals who use Skype or Facetime frequently.

FAQs

Is ProtonVPN cheaper than ExpressVPN?

Both ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN provide excellent value. ProtonVPN’s plans are all less expensive than ExpressVPN, and have the best free plan available.

Is ProtonVPN secure?

ProtonVPN is a VPN that is completely safe to use. ProtonVPN has a stringent no-data-logging policy, so if someone asks for your data, it won’t be able to provide it. If needed, it has Tor integration and SecureCore servers for added security.

Read more Comparisons!

• ExpressVPN vs Cyberghost
• Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
• ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
• ExpressVPN vs PIA
• ExpressVPN vs IPVanish
• ExpressVPN vs Hotspot Shield

There’s no doubt that NordVPN is now one of the best VPNs on the market. But how far ahead of the competition is it? What if we compared it to a smaller provider?

Consider the comparison between NordVPN and Hotspot Shield. The latter is far from insignificant in the business. It has established a reputation as an excellent freemium choice with its own proprietary tunneling technology, Hydra.

You’ve come to the right place if you’re attempting to decide between NordVPN and Hotspot Shield for the finest service. We’ll attempt to answer this question in our NordVPN vs Hotspot Shield comparison.

Let’s have a look at how these two VPN services perform in this VPN comparison in terms of speed, security, features, and other essential factors.

Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN: A Face Off!

	NordVPN	Hotspot Shield
Trustpilot Rating:	4.4	4.7
Servers:	5600+ servers in 60 countries	1800+ servers in 80+ countries
Logs policy:	No logs	No logs
Pricing:	Starts from $3.29/month	Starts from $7.99/month
VPN protocols:	L2TP/IPsec, OpenVPN, IKEv2, Nordlynx	Catapult Hydra, IKEv2
Streaming Compatibility:	Hulu, Amazon Prime, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more	BBC iPlayer, Netflix, YouTube
Platforms:	Linux, Windows, Firefox, Chrome, macOS, iOS, and Android	iOS, Windows, Linux, Mac, and Android
Simultaneous connections:	6 devices	5 devices
Support:	24/7 live chat, FAQs, knowledge base, email support	24/7 live chat, knowledge base, email support, FAQs

Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN: Which One is the Fastest?

To start off, we wanted to conduct a Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN speed test to figure out which VPN is better in terms of speeds. Hotspot Shield, like NordVPN, has a proprietary protocol that focuses entirely on speed.

So, which is the quicker handcrafted protocol: NordLynx, Catapult Hydra, or the oldest IKEv2? Let’s take a look at what we’ve got using the formula 100 Mbps download/100 Mbps upload speed.

	NordVPN	Hotspot Shield
NordLynx/Hydra	86/76 Mbps	87/63 Mbps
IKEv2	82/65 Mbps	84/45 Mbps

In terms of download speed, we observed that Hotspot Shield’s Hydra is led the pack. In fact, speed drops were as less as 13% in some cases, which is an outstanding achievement for a VPN. In the meanwhile, NordLynx’s download speeds were excellent, although not as fast as Catapult Hydra’s.

Hydra’s upload speed, on the other hand, left us wanting more. It was noticeably slower than NordLynx, which is unfortunate if you need a VPN for gaming.

IKEv2 is another tunneling protocol shared by NordVPN and Hotspot Shield. Once again, Hotspot Shield outperformed NordVPN in terms of download speeds. Hotspot Shield’s upload speeds, on the other hand, were disappointing.

Overall, due of the disparity in download and upload speeds, it’s tough to identify a clear winner in this category.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Netflix and streaming platforms: Unblocking Comparison

As for Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN streaming capabilities, the latter can unblock almost any streaming service you can think of, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max. There are no buffering concerns, and you can usually access movie libraries from a variety of nations, not just the United States or the United Kingdom.

It’s worth noting that NordVPN is ideal for watching Netflix because it unblocks around 16 different libraries.

Now let’s talk about Hotspot Shield. It’s also a decent VPN for streaming, as it can unblock Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer, among other services. However, the list comes to an end here, as we were unable to access the other services (such as DAZN) while using the VPN.

NordVPN also has a SmartDNS feature that lets you view content on devices that don’t support VPN connections.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Torrenting

Both Hotspot Shield and NordVPN are good torrenting options. If you download torrents frequently, then NordVPN should be your first choice.

While Hotspot Shield supports torrenting on all servers, NordVPN is a superior option since it has specialized servers that are specifically designed for P2P connections. There’s more: you can connect to its Onion over VPN servers, that are incredibly secure.

Finally, NordVPN includes a built-in SOCKS5 proxy that may be used with a variety of torrenting clients.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Features overview

In this section, picking a winner is challenging as both VPNs offer distinct advanced features. Let’s check a few in detail below:

Smart DNS

SmartDNS is a feature of NordVPN that allows you to access Netflix and other streaming services on devices that don’t support VPN connections, such as game consoles and some smart TVs. But keep in mind that your connection will not be encrypted, and you will only be using an international IP address.

Split tunneling

Both NordVPN and Hotspot Shield offer split tunneling. It’s quite beneficial because it lets you to use the VPN connection for specific applications while leaving the rest of your traffic unencrypted. You won’t have to switch the VPN on and off all the time this way.

In NordVPN’s case, the function is highly customizable. On both Windows and Android, you can include or exclude specific apps from the VPN connection.

When you use Hotspot Shield, you’ll see a feature called SmartVPN, which is practically the same as split tunneling. Surprisingly, the VPN lets you select not just apps but also sites, which is really useful. However, exclusion is the sole option, which limits this Windows and Android feature.

Malware Blocking

Surprisingly, several VPNs can protect you from not only snoopers but also malware. NordVPN uses a mechanism called CyberSec to accomplish this. It prevents your computer from being infected by blocking dangerous ads and websites.

Similarly, Hotspot Shield warns you when you’re about to access an infected website, preventing you from falling victim to phishing scams or infections.

Specialty servers

Unlike Hotspot Shield, NordVPN has a number of specialized servers that you may use to further customize your VPN connection. They are as follows:

• Onion over VPN – Your connection is also routed through the Tor network, making these servers incredibly safe.
• Obfuscated servers – In repressive nations, these servers can be incredibly valuable because they disguise VPN traffic as ordinary traffic, allowing you to circumvent different restrictions.
• P2P servers – These servers, which are optimized for P2P connections, will let you to torrent at high speeds.
• Double VPN – This option is available with the OpenVPN protocols and connects you to two distinct servers at the same time.

Cybersecurity suite

When you purchase Hotspot Shield Premium, you will receive more than just a VPN. This is what you’ll get:

• 1Password – A password manager that will fill out internet forms and passwords for you. It is one of the safest and most effective password managers available. It comes with 1 GB of secure storage of documents.
• Aura antivirus – A full-featured antivirus with real-time security is included in the Premium subscription. Keep in mind, though, that it is only functional on Windows and Mac.
• Spam-call blocker (Robo Shield) – This is an iOS and Android feature that marks calls as spam if they originate from unknown numbers.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN: Security Comparison

In the Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN security comparison, the latter takes the lead due to its powerful security and privacy features. Let’s check a few out below:

Encryption and tunneling protocols

Both of the VPN services offer different encryption and tunneling protocols to users. For example, NordVPN supports OpenVPN, the industry standard, but Hotspot Shield relies on IKEv2.

Furthermore, NordVPN and Hotspot Shield also use proprietary protocols called NordLynx and Hydra, respectively. These protocols have been designed to be speedier than more commonly used protocols while maintaining security. Hydra, according to Hotspot Shield, is 2 times quicker than OpenVPN for long-distance connections.

Both VPNs employ 256-bit AES encryption, which is usually thought to be impenetrable. The 4096-bit RSA keys used by NordVPN are twice as long as those used by Hotspot Shield. Although this makes the key more difficult to crack, even 2048-bit keys are highly secure.

Logging

When it comes to jurisdiction, NordVPN has a significant advantage since it is situated in Panama, a country that values privacy. Hotspot Shield, on the other hand, is based in the United States, which is one of the least private countries in the world.

As for Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN logging policies, there is also a significant difference. NordVPN keeps no user logs and has had its privacy policy independently certified twice. Meanwhile, there hasn’t been a single audit of Hotspot Shield’s privacy policy.

In addition, Hotspot Shield saves your approximate city-level location to suggest the fastest servers. For most privacy-conscious consumers, this may not be the best option.

Kill Switch

NordVPN’s kill switch works great and is fully customizable; you can opt to turn off the internet for the entire device or just certain apps.

The kill switch on Hotspot Shield VPN is excellent, and it cleared our tests with flying colors. However, unlike NordVPN, it is system-wide; you cannot pick specific applications.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Plans pricing

Prices and Plans	NordVPN	Hotspot Shield
Periods	1 month	Basic
	1 year	Premium
	2 years	Premium Family
Special offers and discounts	70% off on the 2-year plan	38% off on the Premium plan
Lowest price per month	$3.49/month	$7.99/month
Highest price per month	$11.99/mo	$11.99/mo

When comparing the costs of NordVPN and Hotspot Shield, it’s clear which one is less expensive – NordVPN. Otherwise, the Premium plan of Hotspot Shield is quite expensive.

Of course, we must not overlook Hotspot Shield’s free plan, which NordVPN does not have. Keep in mind, however, that the free subscription is restricted to 500 MB per month, which is just enough for light browsing.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

China and countries with restricted internet access

NordVPN and Hotspot Shield, fortunately, both work in China. Users using Hotspot Shield do not need to adjust any settings and can continue to browse normally. Users of NordVPN, on the other hand, must first instruct the service to use specific privacy-focused obfuscation servers.

To do so, go to the settings menu, choose Advanced, and check if the Obfuscated servers (OpenVPN) toggle is turned on. When you go back to the main screen, the list on the left will now include obfuscated servers.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Server locations

	Servers	Countries
NordVPN	5500+	60
Hotspot Shield	1800+	80+

This is where Hotspot Shield VPN really shines, because its country selection is incredible: you can choose from over 80 countries to access the content you want.

Hotspot Shield’s server fleet, on the other hand, is substantially smaller than NordVPN’s. As a result, NordVPN’s servers are much less likely to be overloaded.

Furthermore, Hotspot Shield does not provide any form of dedicated server. Meanwhile, NordVPN provides us with a variety of server options, including P2P servers, obfuscated servers, double VPN, and Onion over VPN.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Interface & Ease of Use

	Hotspot Shield	NordVPN
OS supported	Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android	Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android
Other devices and operating systems	Fire TVs & Android TVs	Kodi, Fire TV devices, and Android TVs
Browser extensions	Chrome	Chrome & Firefox
Simultaneous connections	Five	Six

Now that we’re reaching the end, let’s conduct a Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN device compatibility comparison to know which is better to use in terms of user-friendliness and navigation.

Desktop apps

NordVPN’s Windows and macOS apps are very similar. They each have a map, which is a rare (but useful) feature to see on a VPN app. You won’t have any trouble using either one of these NordVPN apps if you’re a newbie. The Linux version, on the other hand, is completely different; you’ll have to use the command line terminal because there is no graphical interface.

Hotspot Shield is similar in this regard: it provides excellent and simple-to-use apps for Windows and macOS, but no graphical interface for Linux distributions.

Mobile apps

NordVPN’s mobile applications will satisfy you if you use Android or an iOS device. Despite the nearly identical appearance, there are some features that differ.

The iOS application, for example, offers Dark Web monitoring. It also doesn’t let you turn off the kill switch. Whereas, Split tunnelling, auto-connect settings, and a configurable kill switch are available in the Android app.

The mobile apps for Hotspot Shield VPN are not just identical, but they also appear to be smaller versions of the desktop apps. They’re also rather feature-rich, even the iOS version.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Customer support

Getting assistance with either service is fairly simple. They both have a help desk that is available 24/7, via email or  live chat. Hotspot Shield, on the other hand, will only assist you if you have a premium subscription. As a result, if you’re a free user or just curious about the service, you’ll have to search the knowledge base for answers to any questions you might have.

Both VPNs offer extensive walkthroughs for resolving common issues, but NordVPN additionally has video guides available on its site and YouTube channel.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN – The Winner?

Now that we’re ending the guide, the real question arises: ‘Which is better: Hotspot Shield vs NordVPN?’ 

The answer is clear: NordVPN is the winner. Given that NordVPN is the best provider in practically every category, this fight may appear to be a bit unfair. However, there is sometimes value in determining what distinguishes the good from the best.

Hotspot Shield got close to NordVPN in certain aspects, which means it’s still a superb VPN. It may make more sense to get the premium Hotspot Shield bundle, which includes a password manager and antivirus. However, as a standalone app, it is a little pricey.

FAQs

Is Hotspot Shield free?

Hotspot Shield Basic is completely free, unrestricted, safe, and simple to use. However, its bandwidth is limited to 500 MB per day and it only offers 1 server location in the US on its free plan.

Is Hotspot Shield trustworthy?

Yes, you can trust Hotspot Shield, but given it’s jurisdiction in the United States, we believe there are better VPNs available that you can opt for.

Read more Comparisons!

• NordVPN vs Cyberghost
• NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
• NordVPN vs Surfshark
• NordVPN vs PIA
• NordVPN vs Mullvad
• NordVPN vs ProtonVPN

IPVanish and NordVPN are two of the most popular VPN services on the market. Nonetheless, the two are vastly distinct. IPVanish is a smaller VPN that has a good reputation and a large user base, but it’s not as recognized as NordVPN.

In this top VPN comparison, we’ll compare IPVanish vs NordVPN in a variety of categories, including speed, security, functionality, and streaming capabilities.

We’ll also announce the winners in each category, so be prepared for some surprises.

IPVanish vs. NordVPN: Head to Head Comparison

Want a quick overview to determine which is better in NordVPN vs IPVanish? Well, check the table below make your decision:

	NordVPN	IPVanish
Trustpilot Rating:	4.4	4.6
Servers:	5600+ servers in 59 countries	2000+ servers in 75+ VPN locations
Logs policy:	No logs	No logs
Pricing:	Starts from $3.49/month	Starts from $3.75/month
VPN protocols:	OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2, Nordlynx	OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, PPTP, IKEv2
Streaming Compatibility:	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, and more	Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more
Platforms:	Linux, Windows, Firefox, Chrome, macOS, iOS, and Android	iOS, Mac, Windows, and Android
Simultaneous connections:	6 devices	Unlimited devices
Support:	knowledge base, FAQs, 24/7 live chat, email support	knowledge base, 24/7 live chat, FAQs, email support, phone support

IPVanish vs. NordVPN: Speed Test

The following figures indicate average download and upload speeds of servers located in the United Kingdom, the United States, Argentina, India, Japan, Canada, and Australia, respectively after being tested using different protocols:

The speeds are mentioned in this pattern: download speeds/upload speeds

Protocols	NordVPN	IPVanish
Nordlynx/WireGuard	87/58	80/24
IKEv2	80/41	69/10
OpenVPN (TCP)	83/36	70/15
OpenVPN (UDP)	79/44	65/29

We compare the WireGuard protocol from IPVanish to NordVPN’s NordLynx version. IPVanish keeps up with NordVPN here, with download and upload speeds that are remarkably similar.

IKEv2 is supported by both VPNs. IPVanish and NordVPN have almost identical download speeds, while the latter has a better upload speed.

UDP is the quicker but less secure variant of OpenVPN. Although the upload speed differential is minimal, NordVPN certainly dominates in the download sector.

OpenVPN TCP is more stable, but it has lower performance, limiting its use. IPVanish is substantially faster than NordVPN in this scenario.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Which one has the best features?

Both services have all of the essential features of a premium VPN. NordVPN, on the other hand, offers something more that IPVanish does not. Take a look at the feature list and decide for yourself:

Stealth VPN

When an app or service discovers that you’re using a VPN, this function helps you avoid being blocked.

Obfuscated servers is a NordVPN feature that can be found in the Specialty Servers section. When you enable it, your traffic will appear to be HTTPS traffic.

In the case of IPVanish, you need to enable traffic obfuscation by checking the Scramble box under OpenVPN settings, which activates the XOR cipher that handles the rest.

However, IPVanish’s Stealth VPN appears to be having difficulty unblocking the internet in China, therefore this award goes to NordVPN.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Split tunneling

Split tunnelling is a handy feature that lets you choose which apps use the VPN tunnel and which connect straight to the internet.

Because of its compatibility, NordVPN wins this round as it offers split tunnelling on Windows and Android, whereas IPVanish only supports Android and FireOS.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Free SOCKS5 proxy

Torrenting favors the SOCKS5 proxy in particular. Setting it up in your torrent client will essentially disguise your IP address without encrypting your traffic. You gain some privacy as well as full-speed downloads this way.

All prominent P2P clients support SOCKS5 proxy configuration. However, keep in mind that your ISP might still monitor your activities if they so choose. Finally, IPVanish has a little edge over NordVPN in that it allows for scraping using SOCKS5.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Exclusive features

SmartDNS is the first of the NordVPN’s exclusive features. It unblocks Netflix and other entertainment platforms without encrypting communications when switched on.

Most significantly, SmartDNS is a “SmartPlay” function that allows you to access content on most game consoles, smart TVs, and other media devices.

There are also a number of security-related alternatives. CyberSec from NordVPN eliminates advertisements and viruses, while Double VPN (multi-hop) provides additional security by connecting to two VPN servers, and Onion Over VPN adds Tor relays on top for unrivaled privacy.

Read more about its features in our NordVPN review.

IPVanish is perhaps the only premium VPN service that offers encrypted cloud storage. For a nominal monthly price, SugarSync allows you to upload up to 500 GB. You can even transmit files through email, which comes in handy when your inbox storage runs out.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

IPVanish VPN vs NordVPN: which is more secure?

When it comes to IPVanish vs Nordvpn security, both VPNs offer a variety of features to keep users private and secure. Although IPVanish provides good security and privacy, NordVPN’s service is superior.

Let’s check out a few of their security metrics to determine which is a better option over the other:

Jurisdiction

NordVPN is based in Panama, which has no data retention regulations and is not affiliated with the 5 Eyes monitoring alliance.

IPVanish is currently headquartered in the United States. This country is a founder member of the Five Eyes alliance, which poses a number of privacy concerns for digital companies.

This means that under the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, the US government can compel any corporation to acquire data.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Logging

As per the NordVPN vs IPVanish logging policies, they do not collect any user data.

NordVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently audited. That basically sums it up. IPVanish boasts a no-logs policy, although it hasn’t been audited in quite some time. Furthermore, unlike NordVPN, they do not allow users to pay with anonymous methods of payment (such as crypto).

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Encryption Protocols

Both VPNs support OpenVPN, IKv2, and L2TP/IPsec. NordVPN also has its own “NordLynx” protocol, which is based on WireGuard and is the quickest and most secure protocol available. Since IPVanish has also started to offer WireGuard now, we’ll keep this round a tie.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Netflix and other streaming platforms

NordVPN unblocks more regional Netflix libraries than IPVanish and works quite well. We’ve tried this extensively and discovered NordVPN to be among the finest options for a reliable Netflix VPN with access to multiple regional libraries.

NordVPN, unlike IPVanish, provides access to a variety of Netflix libraries from across the world. With this VPN, you can watch Netflix in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, India, Japan, Australia, and Italy.

Furthermore, NordVPN is compatible with other streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime.

As for the rival, IPVanish was previously restricted by Netflix, it now provides limited Netflix support in the United States. Additionally, IPVanish promotes itself as an excellent choice for Kodi VPNs, with specific Kodi streaming apps.

However, unlike NordVPN, IPVanish has trouble unblocking BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. It has often been blocked for us.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Torrenting and P2P

For torrenting, IPVanish and NordVPN are excellent choices. Both offer a free SOCKS5 proxy, allowing you to download without having to worry about encryption slowing down your connection.

The primary difference is that IPVanish permits P2P on all of its servers, whereas NordVPN only allows it on a selected few. They do, however, have nearly three times as many servers, so overcrowding should not be an issue.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Plans and pricing

Prices and Plans	NordVPN	IPVanish
Periods	1 month	1 month
	1 year	3 months
	2 years	1 year
Special offers and discounts	70% off on the 2-year plan	65% off on 1-year plan
Lowest price per month	$3.49/month	$3.75/month
Highest price per month	$11.99/mo	$10.99/mo

Both the VPNs offer similar prices on their long-term plans. However, if you’re into smaller commitments, then you should opt for IPVanish. Otherwise, NordVPN’s 2-year plan comes at a great price along with commendable service.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Server locations

Well, it’s true that NordVPN offers thrice as many servers as IPVanish – 5600+ servers in 59 countries. This global server network can definitely not beat IPVanish’s 2000+ servers in 75+ locations.

Also, the quality and service of the former’s servers is great. NordVPN does not use virtual servers and majority of its servers are RAM-only, unlike IPVanish, which has its own physical servers.

However, if you’re checking out the server networks of all the well-known VPNs, then do compare IPVanish vs ExpressVPN vs NordVPN – our favorites – before making any decisions.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

NordVPN vs IPVanish: device compatibility

	IPVanish	NordVPN
OS supported	Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android	Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android
Other devices and operating systems	Fire TV devices & Android TV	Kodi, Fire TV devices, and Android TVs
Browser extensions		Chrome & Firefox
Simultaneous connections	Unlimited	Six

NordVPN offers great compatibility, whereas IPVanish deprives its users from a Linux app and browser extensions. However, we did get into the details of both. Let’s check them out below:

Desktop apps

Each service has Windows and Mac apps that are comparable in appearance. You get a mid-sized window that can be maximized, and you can choose from a list of servers or the map that takes up the most space.

It’s also worth mentioning that NordVPN offers two macOS apps. The NordLynx and other protocols are supported by the App Store version, while the other version only supports OpenVPN but has more capabilities.

Advanced users will appreciate IPVanish’s features. By clicking Alt + C, you can activate keyboard shortcuts and connect, or by using Alt + L, you can see the server list.

There’s also a Diagnostics option under Settings that can help you debug problems on your own or with the help of customer service.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Mobile apps

IPVanish’s mobile apps are uninteresting, whereas NordVPN’s apps appear like their well-designed desktop equivalents.

Although the iOS clients offer less functionality than the Android clients, NordVPN does an excellent job of keeping their apps on par. Most notably, the iOS version provides an always-on kill switch, whereas IPVanish lacks this critical feature.

On Android, IPVanish offers split tunneling, Stealth VPN, insecure network notifications, and port selection, among some other features. OpenVPN and IKEv2 are two protocols that are available in the beta version.

Although NordVPN for Android lacks IKEv2, it compensates with NordLynx. Split tunneling, a custom kill switch, Stealth VPN, tapjacking protection, CyberSec, Onion Over VPN, and Custom DNS are all available. In comparison to IPVanish, there are more options to toggle and customize.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Customer support

Both companies offer 24/7 live chat support. The agents are friendly and helpful, and the wait periods are small.

Email is another option to contact IPVanish and NordVPN. While NordVPN replied within a few hours, IPVanish took two days to respond to our question.

Finally, each service offers access to a well-maintained knowledge source. FAQs, setup manuals, and troubleshooting sections can all be found here. IPVanish’s Support Center page provides system status at the top, which we liked.

So, if you’re having problems connecting, check to determine if the issue is truly on your end.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

IPVanish vs. NordVPN: which one is better?

Despite the fact that IPVanish is a good VPN, NordVPN outperforms it in practically every aspect. NordVPN has a larger server network, greater security measures, a zero-logs policy that has been audited, faster torrenting, and works with loads of streaming sites.

IPVanish is simple to use, and provides excellent performance for lag-free gaming. We particularly like that you may secure an infinite number of devices with a single subscription and seek a refund without having to contact customer service.

Despite these advantages, NordVPN continues to provide the best online privacy and security, as well as reliably unblocking practically any streaming site for lag-free TV and movies. It also outperformed IPVanish in multiplayer games and has a far larger server network.

FAQs

Is IPVanish faster than NordVPN?

When most tunneling protocols are compared, NordVPN is quicker than IPVanish. IPVanish, on the other hand, is rather fast and doesn’t lag far behind – its speeds are more than adequate for streaming and torrenting.

Is NordVPN good for gaming?

NordVPN offers the fastest VPN service on the market, making it the best VPN for gaming. It also safeguards your data transmission without causing any obvious slowdowns.

Read more Comparisons!

• NordVPN vs Cyberghost
• NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
• NordVPN vs Surfshark
• NordVPN vs PIA
• NordVPN vs Hotspot Shield
• NordVPN vs Mullvad
• NordVPN vs ProtonVPN

In the VPN and privacy sectors, NordVPN and ProtonVPN are both well-known and recognised services.

NordVPN is still one of the most prominent VPNs on the market, with a huge server network, fast speeds, and a variety of privacy options. In terms of features, performance, and streaming ability, it consistently surpasses competing VPNs.

ProtonVPN is a Swiss VPN that focuses on privacy and security. However, it has fewer servers, less features, a higher fee, and limited access to major streaming sites.

So, in our NordVPN vs. ProtonVPN comparison, who comes out on top?

We’ll go over each of the categories we evaluated the VPNs against in detail, and mention the results below.

NordVPN vs. ProtonVPN: A Face Off!

	NordVPN	ProtonVPN
Trustpilot Rating:	4.4	2.6
Servers:	5600+ servers in 59 countries	1700+ servers in 63 countries
Logs policy:	No logs	No logs
Pricing:	Starts from $3.49/month	Starts from €4.99/month
VPN protocols:	OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2, Nordlynx	OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and WireGuard
Streaming Compatibility:	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, Hulu, and more	Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more
Platforms:	Linux, Windows, Firefox, Chrome, macOS, iOS, and Android	iOS, Mac, Windows, and Android
Simultaneous connections:	6 devices	10 devices
Support:	knowledge base, FAQs, 24/7 live chat, email support	knowledge base, email support

Speed comparison: NordVPN vs ProtonVPN

We conducted a NordVPN vs ProtonVPN speed test on a variety of these VPNs’ servers and protocols. The testing was based on our formula: 100 Mbps download speed/100 MBps upload speed.

We chose the fastest protocols for each VPN service for this comparison: OpenVPN UDP for ProtonVPN (since it provides a lot of options to increase speed), and NordLynx for NordVPN.

Protocols	NordVPN	ProtonVPN
Nordlynx/OpenVPN UDP	86/57	78/60

It’s evident that both companies are outstanding in this situation. ProtonVPN does not decline at this stage, despite the fact that NordVPN’s unique NordLynx protocol (a bespoke version of WireGuard) is far ahead of many others supplied by other top VPNs.

When connecting to the most remote servers, for example, the ProtonVPN’s speed declines from 78 percent to 97 percent. NordVPN, on the other hand, can keep rather consistent speeds regardless of the region to which you’re connected.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Netflix and streaming platforms; Which one unblocks more?

As for NordVPN vs ProtonVPN streaming capabilities, both are excellent at accessing streaming platforms. Both companies use ways to avoid being identified while circumventing various geo-restrictions.

NordVPN claims to be able to unblock more than 400 different streaming services. ProtonVPN is only interested in unblocking more than 30 popular streaming providers.

We were able to unblock BBC iPlayer, Netflix US, and Youtube while using ProtonVPN. DAZN, on the other hand, was adamant about not giving up.

Remember that you can only utilize the servers that are optimized for unblocking streaming sites if you have the Plus or Visionary subscription. Furthermore, ProtonVPN does not provide SmartDNS.

Meanwhile, NordVPN provides all of its users with access to streaming platforms, and unblocks more platforms, along with offering the SmartDNS feature, which allows users to stream geo-restricted content on devices that don’t support VPN connections.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Torrenting

When torrenting, it’s best to utilize a VPN so that your ISP can’t track your activities (this is quite useful if your country restricts torrenting).

So, which of our two VPN contenders should you pick? Let’s look at it more closely.

ProtonVPN’s premium plans all support P2P file sharing. All you have to do now is find a torrent-friendly server.

Torrenting is also possible with NordVPN. It, like ProtonVPN, provides dedicated servers for P2P traffic. In addition, if you try torrenting while connecting to a server that isn’t P2P-friendly, the VPN will immediately switch you to one that is.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Features overview

Even if extra features aren’t normally a VPN’s main selling point, it’s always wonderful to have more control over your VPN connections. Let’s look at a few features NordVPN and ProtonVPN offer to determine which is a better option:

Double VPN

Both ProtonVPN and NordVPN have a function called Double VPN. It provides an extra degree of privacy by allowing you to connect through two separate VPN servers. Remember that your internet speed will be significantly slower.

ProtonVPN calls this feature Secure Core, and it is only accessible with ProtonVPN’s Plus and Visionary subscriptions.

Split tunneling

The Split tunneling feature of ProtonVPN is quite advanced. There are numerous configuration options available, including the ability to include and exclude apps as well as IPs from the VPN tunnel. The feature is accessible in ProtonVPN’s Windows and Android apps.

Split tunneling with NordVPN is also quite configurable: you may disable and enable VPN connections for the apps you choose. You cannot, however, set it with IP addresses. NordVPN’s Windows and Android apps contain this feature, just like ProtonVPN’s.

SmartPlay

NordVPN is the only provider that offers SmartPlay. It’s also known as SmartDNS, and it improves your chances of being able to access streaming platforms and get around geo-restrictions.

It also lets you to watch geo-restricted movies and shows on devices without a NordVPN app. SmartPlay is even compatible with devices that don’t support VPN connections, such as game consoles.

Specialty servers

Most VPNs provide dedicated servers for certain purposes. ProtonVPN, for example, uses Tor over VPN. Before connecting to a VPN server, it reroutes your connection over the Tor network. This is especially useful if you’re connecting from a country where the government is oppressive.

Similarly, NordVPN offers Onion over VPN, which is practically the same thing. The VPN also has specialist P2P servers that provide the fastest torrenting speeds.

CyberSec

CyberSec is a feature of NordVPN that will keep you safe online. Just enable it in the General tab, and the VPN will ensure that unsafe websites are blocked, as well as all annoying ads that appear on various pages.

Keep in mind, though, that a VPN isn’t an antivirus, and you’ll still need an anti-malware to keep your devices safe.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

NordVPN vs ProtonVPN: which is more secure?

Both VPN providers are outstanding in terms of NordVPN vs ProtonVPN security. These VPNs are among the safest on the market, thanks to military-grade AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, secure tunnelling protocols, and independent audits.

Encryption and tunneling protocols

Both NordVPN and ProtonVPN protect your data with AES-256 encryption. Because this sort of encryption is nearly impossible to crack, utilizing either of the services is absolutely risk-free.

When comparing the tunneling protocols, however, some disparities emerge. NordVPN has a slightly larger selection of them. NordLynx, OpenVPN TCP and UDP, and IKEv2/IPsec are all options.

ProtonVPN, on the other hand, supports OpenVPN TCP and UDP and IKEv2/IPsec. WireGuard would be a welcome addition, however there are presently no plans to integrate it.

Logging

When it comes to NordVPN vs ProtonVPN logging policies, the former is an excellent example of a well-executed no-logs policy. Nothing personal is logged by the VPN, including bandwidth usage, connection timestamps, session information, IP addresses, and so on.

App diagnostics data and Crash error reports are the only kinds of data it saves. You can, however, just opt out of this.

Aside from that, NordVPN is situated in Panama, which is a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no laws requiring data retention. Finally, NordVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently verified twice, demonstrating its reliability.

ProtonVPN is also extremely dependable. It is open-source, for starters. Furthermore, SEC Consult has independently audited ProtonVPN.

Everything appears to be in order when it comes to the no-logs policy. ProtonVPN, on the other hand, maintains the timestamp of your last login, unlike NordVPN.

Finally, ProtonVPN is situated in Switzerland, which is known for its privacy.

Kill Switch

A well-functioning kill switch should be included in any reliable VPN. Otherwise, if your VPN suddenly dies, your true IP address may be exposed.

Fortunately, ProtonVPN provides a reliable kill switch. The feature successfully switched off the internet connection throughout our tests. However, getting the internet back online on the Windows app was a bit of a challenge.

NordVPN includes two kill switches: an Internet kill switch and an App kill switch. When it comes to the latter, you can create a list of all the apps you wish to prohibit if your VPN connection is compromised.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Plans pricing

Prices and Plans	NordVPN	ProtonVPN
Periods	1 month	1 month
	1 year	1 year
	2 years	2 years
Special offers and discounts	70% off on the 2-year plan	–
Lowest price per month	$3.49/month	€4.99/month
Highest price per month	$11.99/mo	€9.99/mo

While ProtonVPN’s one-month subscription is somewhat less expensive than NordVPN, the latter’s long-term plan is simply twice as affordable. And, let’s be honest, if you’re serious about utilizing a VPN, you’ll need a long-term subscription.

ProtonVPN, on the other hand, is the only one that provides a completely free plan, which NordVPN does not. Regardless of how much we enjoy freemium VPNs, we still consider NordVPN to be the winner in this area, as its price is not only more reasonable, but also less complicated.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

China and countries with restricted internet access

The Great Firewall is a set of web-filtering tools used by the Chinese government to limit what its citizens can read online. Normally, you’d be able to get around these restrictions by using a VPN, but most big providers are completely blocked.

ProtonVPN is one of them. Until recently, this service was truly functional on the mainland. Recent improvements to the Great Firewall, however, appear to have spotted it. Normally, a service would identify a remedy in a matter of days, however ProtonVPN’s post addressing the issue hasn’t been revised since 2019.

On the plus side, NordVPN functions flawlessly in China. Users don’t have to do anything special, which is fantastic.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Server locations

While both services serve a similar number of countries, NordVPN has a significant network size advantage. In fact, it has nearly five times the number of servers as ProtonVPN i.e. 5600+ servers in 60 countries (ProtonVPN offers 1700+ servers in 63 countries).

This may increase the likelihood of consumers finding a low-load server, albeit this is dependent on a variety of factors, including the total number of users and even the time of day.

Furthermore, even if some NordVPN servers are blocked by a geo-restricted service, there are plenty others to select from.

NordVPN isn’t the only VPN offering a server network this vast. A VPN that can beat this network size is PIA. Get more details about it in our PIA VPN vs NordVPN comparison.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Interface & Ease of Use

	ProtonVPN	NordVPN
OS supported	Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android	Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android
Other devices and operating systems	Fire TVs & Android TVs	Kodi, Fire TV devices, and Android TVs
Browser extensions	Safari, Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera	Chrome & Firefox
Simultaneous connections	Ten	Six

When it comes to NordVPN vs ProtonVPN device compatibility, both VPNs have done their homework. You will be able to download a high-quality app regardless of the device you use.

Desktop apps

ProtonVPN’s desktop applications are excellent, particularly the Windows version. Apart from looking slick and modern, it has the majority of the extra features. The main window shows a map as well as a wealth of data about your connection.

You can view the connection time, the bandwidth you used in the previous 60 seconds, and the connection duration, for example. The server load is also visible. It simply displays the load of the server to which you are now connected.

Meanwhile, some functions, such as Alternative Routing and Split Tunneling, are missing from the macOS application. ProtonVPN for Linux has a very minimal user interface and a terminal.

In terms of features, NordVPN’s desktop apps are a touch more unified than its mobile versions. Both the Windows and macOS applications show a map to make it easier to select the country you require. The Mac version, on the other hand, still lacks the split tunnelling capability.

Furthermore, the Linux version of NordVPN lacks a user interface, forcing you to use the command line terminal.

Mobile apps

ProtonVPN and NordVPN are available for download on both Android and iOS devices. The question is, which VPN provides the best mobile apps?

As a result, ProtonVPN’s mobile apps are nearly identical, which is a pleasant surprise. Normally, the iOS app is inferior to the Android app when it comes to VPNs, but not in this case.

In the meantime, the Android version of NordVPN is superior to the iOS version, as the iOS app lacks features like auto-connect and split tunneling.

Overall, iOS users may choose ProtonVPN, while Android users will be satisfied with any VPN.

Final Result: ProtonVPN is the Winner!

Customer support

Both of these services feature a large knowledge base where you can look for answers to your concerns. However, only NordVPN offers a live chat support desk, which is unexpected given that most premium VPN services do.

Instead, ProtonVPN requests that users contact them using a ticket system, which has a one- to two-day response time.

Given that email is the primary method of communication for ProtonVPN consumers, you’d expect staff to respond more quickly.

NordVPN is a wonderful illustration of this: it offers 24/7 assistance and yet responds within five hours on average.

Final Result: ProtonVPN is the Winner!

NordVPN vs. ProtonVPN – The Winner?

Now that we’ve reached the end, the real questions we’re about to answer are: Which is better: NordVPN vs ProtonVPN? Which VPN takes the lead?

Well, NordVPN is the clear winner in this comparison. Although ProtonVPN has some appealing features, such as a free subscription, its overall pricing cannot compete with NordVPN.

To make matters worse, ProtonVPN’s split tunneling cannot compensate for the difference in the sheer number of features offered by NordVPN, like better speeds and user-friendliness.

FAQs

Is ProtonVPN cheaper than NordVPN?

While ProtonVPN’s one-month subscription is somewhat less expensive than NordVPN’s, the latter’s long-term plan is twice as affordable. And, let’s be honest, if you’re serious about using a VPN, you’ll need a long-term subscription.

Is ProtonVPN secure?

Yes, ProtonVPN is quite secure. The VPN has a rigorous no-data-logging policy, so even if someone asks for your data, it won’t provide it to them. It also has Tor integration and SecureCore servers for added security.

Read more Comparisons!

• NordVPN vs Cyberghost
• NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
• NordVPN vs Surfshark
• NordVPN vs PIA
• NordVPN vs Hotspot Shield
• NordVPN vs Mullvad

Well-known VPN providers Mullvad and NordVPN can help you protect yourself while browsing online. Both of them have helpful features like built-in ad blockers and split tunneling.

To choose the best choice for yourself, you must consider how either of them works in terms of speed, security, and other abilities.

The only way to do that is through a head-to-head Mullvad vs NordVPN comparison. We’ve divided the VPN comparison into multiple phases to ensure fairness while also providing a wealth of information.

So, without any delays, let’s get started!

Mullvad vs NordVPN: A Face Off!

	NordVPN	Mullvad VPN
Trustpilot Rating:	4.4	4.3
Servers:	5600+ servers in 59 countries	840+ servers in 39 countries
Logs policy:	No logs	No logs
Pricing:	Starts from $3.49/month	Starts from €5/month
VPN protocols:	IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, OpenVPN, Nordlynx	OpenVPN, WireGuard
Streaming Compatibility:	Hulu, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and more	YouTube
Platforms:	Windows, Linux, iOS, Firefox, Chrome, macOS, and Android	Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android
Simultaneous connections:	6 devices	5 devices
Support:	24/7 live chat, FAQs, knowledge base, email support	Twitter, Facebook, Email

Mullvad vs NordVPN: Speed Comparison

The tunneling protocol is one of several factors that affect VPN speed performance. We have evaluated the speeds of Mullvad and NordVPN on WireGuard and OpenVPN (TCP/UDP) protocols separately using our 100 Mbps connection. The results are as follows:

Protocols	NordVPN (100 Mbps download/100 Mbps upload speed)	Mullvad (100 Mbps download/100 Mbps upload speed)
Nordlynx/WireGuard	79/60	75/50
OpenVPN UDP	70/45	85/35
OpenVPN TCP	65/13	29/16

Both NordVPN and Mullvad functioned admirably with the WireGuard protocol during the test. NordVPN’s download and upload speeds decreased on average by 21% and 40%, respectively.

On the other hand, Mullvad displayed slightly higher average losses: 25% for download speed and 50% for upload speed. However, almost equally great speeds were indeed provided by both providers.

OpenVPN UDP is another speedy protocol. Therefore, the outcomes were also more promising. The average speed loss for NordVPN was 30% for downloads and 55% for uploads. Mullvad also provided reasonably better results, reducing download and upload speeds by 15% and 65%, respectively.

It’s crucial to remember that the OpenVPN TCP protocol is focused on security rather than speed when evaluating VPNs with it. The average speed decrease for NordVPN in downloads was 35% and uploads was 87 percent. Results from Mullvad showed an average download speed decline of 71% and an upload speed drop of 84%.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Netflix and other streaming platforms; Which one unblocks more?

Numerous well-known streaming services can be easily unblocked by NordVPN. We  had no trouble accessing HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, DAZN, Hulu, or streaming Netflix US as well as libraries.

Furthermore, NordVPN includes a really helpful feature called SmartPlay that enables you to view international content on devices that don’t even support a VPN connection.

Netflix and other streaming services are regrettably not unblocked by Mullvad. While other sites either redirected us to the foreign libraries or displayed an error notification, we were only able to access YouTube. 

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Torrenting

Both Mullvad and NordVPN allow torrenting. The primary distinction between the two would be that NordVPN offers exclusive P2P servers that are specialized for torrenting.

Additionally, NordVPN immediately connects to the specialized server to guarantee your protection if you begin torrenting on a regular server and it get detected. As a result, you get both incredible speeds and security.

Mullvad states that all its servers are P2P-friendly even though it lacks specific P2P servers. We tested both VPNs, and the results were excellent: there was no throttling and the connections were fast.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Overview of Features

We will now examine the features that each VPN provider offers. In order for a VPN to be deemed usable, we will be searching for a few security-related features that we believe are essential.

Ad-blocker

Some premium VPN services guarantee complete online security. NordVPN provides the CyberSec feature, which bans invasive ads and harmful websites, as a result.

As soon as it is turned on, it will begin monitoring the websites you visit in real-time. It will alert you and prevent access if you attempt to access one of the websites on the blacklist that is known to host malware.

To prevent fraudulent websites from tracking your surfing activities or displaying pop-up advertising, Mullvad also features a capability to block advertisements and trackers. Each of them has a distinct setting where you can activate or deactivate them.

Split tunneling

To let you control which apps must use the VPN connection as well as which ones shouldn’t, split tunneling was created. It’s helpful if you want to download things quickly while also watching geo-restricted content on a streaming platform.

NordVPN provides split tunneling for Android and Windows users. You can enable or disable the VPN for particular applications using the Windows app. As a result, each time you open the app, they would automatically connect to the VPN.

On the other hand, the Android version merely lets you turn off the VPN for specific apps and offers an inverted split tunneling option. It’s important to note that users of macOS, Linux, and iOS cannot yet access this feature.

Split tunneling is another feature supported by Mullvad VPN, allowing you to choose which applications to bypass the VPN connection. But it’s also confined to Linux, Windows, and Android.

Kill Switch

Along with a basic kill switch, NordVPN also features an app kill switch. Instead of completely turning off the internet, you can set a list of apps to block online if the VPN loses connection.

Mullvad’s kill switch is called “block when disconnected” and is available under the Advanced tab. Its kill switch indicates that it restricts traffic even though the application is closed when the VPN is not connected.

Although it still keeps you secure, this is a cumbersome approach to create a kill switch, so it’s likely that most people will disable it to avoid the hassle.

Additional features

While both VPNs offer necessary features, NordVPN goes above and beyond to increase security and enhance user experience. For instance, it features a SmartPlay technology which enables geo-restricted video streaming on devices that don’t offer VPN support.

In addition, NordVPN offers specialized servers that can give you the greatest results while using a VPN for a certain purpose. It provides double VPN, obfuscated servers for optimum secrecy, and P2P servers for torrenting.

It also provides the Dark Web Monitoring tool, which regularly checks to see whether your personal information has been compromised.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

NordVPN vs Mullvad: which is more secure?

We examine the protocols VPNs employ and the degree of encryption they use when it comes to security.

For privacy, we review every VPN’s privacy policy in its full to determine the kind of data it gathers and how it uses it. Let’s review and determine which VPN is one level over the other when it comes to security.

Logging

Your data is protected because Mullvad and NordVPN operate under stringent no-log policies. In order to confirm that the privacy claims made by both VPNs are true, independent auditing firms also examined them.

One of the Big Four auditing companies, PricewaterhouseCoopers, audited NordVPN in 2018 and 2020.  The findings showed that this VPN provider adheres to the strictest privacy and security guidelines.

In 2020, Cure53, an independent auditing company, also looked into Mullvad. According to the audit’s findings, there were no privacy breaches or personally identifiable information (PII) leaks.

Infrastructure

Nearly all of NordVPN’s servers have been modified to run exclusively on RAM in order to maintain security. Simply said, they don’t save usage logs on a hard disc.

Instead, operational data on NordVPN servers is stored in a volatile memory that is totally erased upon a system restart. RAM-only servers are much more secure than hard drives and can be remotely wiped clean to start a restart if there is a threat to the confidentiality of stored data.

Mullvad is also concerned about security. All of its servers are secured with the bastion host, unique computers made to withstand attacks, and encrypted to prevent unauthorized access.

Privacy

AES-256 encryption is of a level that is used by both Mullvad and NordVPN. Due to its resistance to brute-force attacks and near-impenetrability, it is regarded as the industry standard. Your information is thus always secure from third parties.

In addition, Panama, where NordVPN is based, has non-intrusive laws and is a privacy-friendly location. Whereas Mullvad is based in Sweden, a member of the 14 Eyes.  However, the business takes exemplary steps to safeguard the information of its customers.

For instance, since Mullvad doesn’t require an email address and even allows cash payments, you can sign up for an account absolutely anonymously. As a result, we were quite impressed by the efforts made by Mullvad and NordVPN to uphold the greatest standards for privacy.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

NordVPN vs Mullvad VPN: Pricing Plans

Prices and Plans	NordVPN	Mullvad
Periods	1 month	1 month
	1 year	1 year
	2 years	1 decade
Special offers and discounts	70% off on the 2-year plan	–
Lowest price per month	$3.49/month	€5/month
Highest price per month	$11.99/mo	€5/month

NordVPN offers a variety of flexible subscription alternatives in terms of pricing and plans. Depending on the length of your subscription, you can choose a 1-year, 2-year, or 1-month plan and receive sufficient discounts.

Mullvad has a one flat monthly cost, which is a completely different pricing method. Simply said, you will be required to pay the same monthly charge regardless of how long you want to use this VPN.

If you subscribe to its monthly plan, NordVPN costs $11.99; if you subscribe to its 1-year plan, it costs $4.99; and if you subscribe to its 2-year plan, it costs $3.49. We  advise signing up for the VPN services for two years to obtain the greatest deal because you’ll pay the lowest monthly fee at that point.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Mullvad VPN vs NordVPN: Server locations

NordVPN offers over 5600 servers in 60 countries, including the Africa, Asia Pacific, Middle East, Americas, and Europe. Even some of the finest VPNs cannot provide this server fleet, which is rather impressive.

Dedicated IP, obfuscated, double VPN, P2P, and onion over VPN servers are just a few of the specialty servers offered by NordVPN. They are each designed for a particular activity. For instance, its obfuscated servers assist in getting over restrictions in severe censoring situations.

Moreover, Mullvad offers only 840+ servers in 39 countries, which is not even half of the server fleet of NordVPN.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Mullvad vs NordVPN: Apps, interface, and ease of use

	Mullvad	NordVPN
OS supported	Mac, Windows, iOS, Linux, and Android	Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android
Other devices and operating systems	–	Kodi, Fire TV devices, and Android TVs
Browser extensions	Firefox	Chrome & Firefox
Simultaneous connections	Five	Six

Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS all have dedicated NordVPN apps. Mullvad does too. The installation process is quick, and both VPNs are simple to use.

It’s important to note that you must create a 16-digit account number for Mullvad on its official website before you can install it. This extra step will ensure that you are entirely anonymous while configuring the VPN. So, we wouldn’t consider it a disadvantage.

You can use NordVPN on a variety of streaming devices, including Kodi and Firestick, thanks to its SmartPlay technology. Sadly, Mullvad does not provide this option and only supports a limited number of simultaneous connections. As a result, it is clear that NordVPN dominates this area.

Desktop apps

Desktop apps of NordVPN are simple to use and very user-friendly. All of its capabilities, including split tunneling, a kill switch, pause or auto-connect, are available to Windows users.

macOS users only get a slightly constrained version of the VPN.  Apple’s stringent security policies are primarily to blame. You cannot, for instance, use split tunneling or disable the kill switch.

The desktop apps for Mullvad are similarly very simple to use. You can choose the appropriate country and server, as well as quickly navigate to Preferences or Advanced Settings. Like NordVPN, its Windows version has fewer restrictions than macOS.

Considering the VPN desktop applications, we’d conclude that while they offer enjoyable experiences, Mullvad’s UI seems a bit outdated.

Mobile apps

For iOS and Android devices, NordVPN has dedicated applications that look the same. They are quite simple to use. You can choose servers, access the settings, and instantly establish or disable the VPN connection.

It’s important to note that the iOS app lacks a customizable kill switch and doesn’t support split tunneling. However, it features Dark Web Monitoring that Android users are not able to access.

Additionally, Mullvad features user-friendly apps and supports both operating systems. Although they are simple to use, like the desktop versions, the interface is a little outdated. Its iOS version is likewise more constrained than the Android version because split tunneling is not supported.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Customer support

You can contact support via a number of different channels when using NordVPN.

It provides a 24/7 live chat option, which is one of the quickest and most well-liked among consumers. Within a few minutes, a support representative will respond to a direct query from you.

On their website, you may discover helpful how-to manuals, articles, and FAQs if you have a general query about how to configure the VPN and how to use one of its functions.

Mullvad only offers email support, so responses could take hours or even days. But while you wait, you can search through Mullvad’s huge knowledge base; chances are, you’ll discover the solution on your own.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Mullvad vs NordVPN: Which one takes the crown?

Our Mullvad vs. NordVPN comparison has made it evident that NordVPN is unquestionably a superior option. It offers servers in a far larger number of nations and is speedier than Mullvad. The fact that NordVPN offers long-term plans with significant discounts is what makes it better.

Even if that wasn’t sufficient, our winner offers support for more platforms. When compared to Mullvad, NordVPN offers apps for FireStick, Android TV, & Fire TV in addition to Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, and iOS.

Additionally, you can download Chrome and Firefox browser extensions and manually set it up on routers.

FAQs

Is Mullvad better than ExpressVPN?

No, ExpressVPN is the overall better choice than Mullvad VPN due to its fast speeds, secure privacy, and unblocking abilities.

Is Mullvad good for streaming?

Simply put, Mullvad is not a good streaming option because Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Hulu don’t function consistently with it.

Read more Comparisons!

• NordVPN vs Cyberghost
• NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
• NordVPN vs Surfshark
• NordVPN vs PIA
• NordVPN vs Hotspot Shield
• NordVPN vs ProtonVPN

There is a reason why ExpressVPN and IPVanish are two of the most popular VPNs on the market—they both offer top-of-the-line security features, great speeds, and robust customer support.

But which one is right for you? In this VPN comparison, we compare ExpressVPN vs IPVanish to help you decide.

ExpressVPN vs IPVanish: Head to Head Comparison

	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
Trustpilot Rating:	4.6	4.6
Servers:	3000+ servers in 94 countries	2000+ servers in 75+ VPN locations
Logs policy:	No logs	No logs
Pricing:	Starts from $8.32/month	Starts from $3.75/month
VPN protocols:	Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2	OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, PPTP, IKEv2
Streaming Compatibility:	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, and more	Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more
Platforms:	Windows, iOS, Firefox, Chrome, Edge, macOS, Linux, and Android	Windows, iOS, Mac, and Android
Simultaneous connections:	5 devices	Unlimited devices
Support:	24/7 live chat, knowledge base, FAQs, email support	24/7 live chat, knowledge base, FAQs, email support

ExpressVPN vs IPVanish: Speed Test

As two of the most prominent providers in the VPN industry, ExpressVPN and IPVanish are often compared by users. While both offer solid features, features are just one metric to judge a VPN on. Speed is another important factor that users consider when deciding which service works best for them.

Because of ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol, which allows for faster speeds, comparing the speeds of these two VPNs used to be unfair.

But now that IPVanish has adopted the WireGuard protocol, the two are quite similar in terms of connection speeds. IPVanish and ExpressVPN can now be compared fairly.

To keep things short, we tested the speeds of both VPNs using a variety of VPN protocols offered by both and compiled the results in a table.

The table below contains the download speeds of both providers:

Base download speed: 100 Mbps

VPN Protocol	ExpressVPN Download Speeds	IPVanish Download Speeds
OpenVPN UDP	74.17 Mbps	71.98
OpenVPN TCP	76.34	73.76
IKEv2	78.34	76.76

When using the above-mentioned protocols, ExpressVPN’s speeds dropped by roughly 25%. In comparison, IPVanish’s speeds dropped by around 28%-29%. So, ExpressVPN performed slightly better.

When using the Lightway protocol, ExpressVPN’s speeds improved significantly. On average, we consistently got a download speed of around 85 Mbps. In comparison, IPVanish’s Wireguard protocol managed to deliver download speeds of around 80 Mbps.

Overall, ExpressVPN is faster than IPVanish.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Which one has the best features?

If you’re looking for a VPN service that offers the best features, ExpressVPN and IPVanish are two of the best options out there. They both offer unlimited bandwidth, military-grade encryption, and multiple server locations.

But which one offers the best features? 

Let’s go in-depth and look at the different features both VPNs offer to see which one is a clear winner.

Split tunneling

As we mentioned earlier, both VPNs offer split tunneling. This feature allows you to pick which apps should connect to the VPN and which should not. You can choose to include or exclude specific applications when using the VPN app.

Split tunneling is only supported by the IPVanish Android app. ExpressVPN, on the other hand, makes it available through its Windows, macOS, and Android apps.

Final Result: ExpressVPN takes the Lead!

Stealth VPN

Stealth VPN servers are offered by ExpressVPN only, IPVanish lacks this feature sadly. With Stealth servers, VPN communication is disguised to appear as normal internet traffic. Even through packet inspection, it’s impossible for anyone to identify that you’re using a VPN.

Due to the fact that ExpressVPN uses Stealth servers, it can most likely work in China and other countries where VPN usage is not allowed.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Ad Blocker

Even though both VPNs do a great job of keeping you safe and secure online, they both don’t have a built-in ad blocker. This means you’ll need to use a separate ad-blocker like uBlock Origin or Adblock Plus if you want to prevent adverts while browsing.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

SOCKS5 proxy

IPVanish, unlike ExpressVPN, provides a SOCKS5 proxy and that too for free. It’s a fantastic torrenting feature. Even while it hides your real IP address, it does not encrypt the data, allowing you to access the internet at faster speeds.

A SOCKS5 proxy can be used instead of a VPN. It uses a proxy server to redirect packets between a server and a client. This implies that your true IP address is disguised and you use a proxy provider’s address to access the internet.

Final Result: IPVanish is the Winner!

Ram Only Servers

As we mentioned earlier, only ExpressVPN offers RAM-only servers. ExpressVPN calls this feature “TrustedServer technology”.

Because ExpressVPN’s servers are incapable of maintaining any data logs, all of your data is regularly wiped with each server reboot when you use RAM-only servers.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Exclusive features

Prominent VPN features, such as a kill switch and split tunnelling, are available on both IPVanish and ExpressVPN. While IPVanish has a SOCKS5 proxy, ExpressVPN offers Smart DNS support.

Even though both VPNs offer great features, there are some differences. For example, ExpressVPN allows you to use split tunneling on numerous devices, whereas IPVanish only allows split tunneling on Android devices.

Another aspect where ExpressVPN is clearly better than IPVanish is that it uses RAM-only servers and port forwarding. IPVanish lacks these two crucial features.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

ExpressVPN vs IPVanish: which VPN is more secure?

When taking ExpressVPN vs IPVanish security into account, then both the providers are very comparable. For starters, the services use AES-256 encryption, which is military-grade. For authentication, both VPN providers use the SHA-512 hash method. Perfect forward secrecy is supported by both IPVanish and ExpressVPN.

When using the Lightway protocol, ExpressVPN gives you the option of employing ChaCha20/Poly1305 encryption. ExpressVPN also offers stealth servers for an extra layer of security.

So overall, ExpressVPN is more secure.

Let’s go through some more security features to see which one is better.

Jurisdiction

ExpressVPN is the clear winner when it comes to jurisdiction. Because IPVanish is situated in the United States, its VPN service is based in the British Virgin Islands.

As we all know, the United States has a bad reputation when it comes to privacy. The British Virgin Islands, on the other hand, is a far more privacy-friendly territory.

The United States is also a member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance. Its government is notorious for snooping on businesses, seeking private user data, and other malicious activities.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Logging

The ExpressVPN vs IPVanish logging policies are excellent. Both the services claim to maintain no logs, including activity logs, browsing history, connection logs, and other comparable information. However, they do capture your email address as well as your payment method.

One way ExpressVPN is better than IPVanish is that it uses servers that run on RAM exclusively, erasing data every time the server is rebooted.

Both VPNs have also been involved in controversies. For example, IPVanish was embroiled in a privacy crisis after giving the FBI access to some criminal data.

As for ExpressVPN, its CIO was named as one of the people linked to Project Raven, which assisted the UAE in targeting journalists, political opponents, and US residents.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Encryption Protocols

ExpressVPN offers protocols such as:

• Lightway – UDP
• Lightway – TCP
• OpenVPN – UDP
• OpenVPN – TCP
• L2TP/IPSec
• IKEv2

IPVanish uses:

• WireGuard
• IKEv2
• OpenVPN
• L2TP
• IPSEC
• PPTP

WireGuard is not supported by ExpressVPN. Lightway, on the other hand, is more secure in terms of encryption design, has fewer lines of code than OpenVPN, and can provide a more consistent connection.

Overall, both VPNs offer a wide range of protocols. The only thing that sets both VPNs apart is that ExpressVPN uses its proprietary Lightway protocol, whereas, IPVanish uses its Wireguard protocol.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Netflix and other streaming platforms

ExpressVPN is often considered to be one of the best VPNs for Netflix. It always works with Netflix and gives superb HD streaming speeds, regardless of where you are.

It is also great for accessing Netflix in different regions. You may also use the VPN to watch Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and other streaming services.

On the other hand, IPVanish isn’t an excellent Netflix VPN. We tried using this VPN to unblock numerous libraries and were always barred after a few minutes. IPVanish connections are also restricted on BBC iPlayer, thus it’s not the best VPN for BBC iPlayer.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Torrenting and P2P

Torrenting is supported by both VPN services.

IPVanish does not offer dedicated torrenting servers, but you may simply utilize one of its standard torrenting servers and the performance will be adequate. In our situation, it consistently maintained a speed of 20-25MB/s.

ExpressVPN, on the other hand, allows torrenting on all of its servers. During our tests, however, the speed was more consistent than IPVanish, fluctuating between 5 and 10 MB/s.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Plans and pricing

Prices and Plans	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
Periods	1 month	1 month
	6 months	3 months
	1 year	1 year
Special offers and discounts	35% off on the 1-year plan	65% off on 1-year plan
Lowest price per month	$8.32/month	$3.75/month
Highest price per month	$12.95/mo	$10.99/mo

As for pricing, we all can see that ExpressVPN’s prices are about 2 times higher than its rival on an annual commitment. While ExpressVPN does justify these prices by offering a fantastic overall performance, for now, the win of this factor goes to IPVanish.

Final Result: IPVanish is the Winner!

Server locations

IPVanish offers over 2,000 servers spread over 75 different locations. ExpressVPN, on the other hand, has over 3,000 servers in 160 locations, giving them the edge in terms of scaling. Your Internet connection will be speedier the closer we are to a server.

However, since ExpressVPN does come with almost double the amount of servers and locations, we all know who wins in this category.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Apps, interface, and ease of use

App Interface and Usability	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
Selection of servers	List-based	List and Map based
Mobile-friendly apps	Available	Available
Auto-setup wizard	iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, routers, and Mac	Windows, iOS, Android, Mac

As for ExpressVPN vs IPVanish’s device compatibility, they offered dedicated applications for most operating systems and mobile devices. However, we tested all of them and here are the results:

Desktop apps

A map and list view, the settings tab, and all types of connection information can be found on the main screen of IPVanish’s Windows and macOS apps. However, some users may find the application to be a little complex.

ExpressVPN, on the other hand, takes a more modest approach. Both Windows and Mac applications have a small primary window with a large button taking up most of the space. There is also no map; nevertheless, this isn’t a major issue because there is a handy country filter that allows you to quickly navigate across servers.

Split tunneling is accessible in the ExpressVPN Windows and Mac apps, but it is only available in the IPVanish Android app.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Mobile apps

IPVanish’s mobile app differs from its desktop equivalents in appearance. It’s far more compact and less congested because it’s designed to fit a mobile screen.

IPVanish’s Android app outperforms its iOS counterpart in terms of features such as split tunneling and obfuscation toggle.

ExpressVPN’s mobile app now looks similar to the desktop application. ExpressVPN’s Android app, like IPVanish, is the better one, with more features like split tunneling and a kill switch.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Customer support

Both services offer live chat and email help 24/7, and a database of users’ previous questions that we could search, which came in handy when looking up IP addresses.

IPVanish, on the other hand, wins this round because it includes phone support, which most of the VPNs, including ExpressVPN, don’t.

Final Result: IPVanish is the Winner!

ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish: Which is better?

Based on the factors listed above, ExpressVPN is clearly superior to IPVanish in terms of performance, features, security, and support. 

Despite the fact that IPVanish has no limit on the number of simultaneous connections on a single account, ExpressVPN outperforms IPVanish in terms of performance, speed, and security.

However, IPVanish comes with its own perks. Cost, the flexibility to connect multiple devices, and A+ customer support are all advantages of this VPN.

FAQs

Is IPVanish faster than ExpressVPN?

No, ExpressVPN is a much faster VPN than IPVanish, thanks to its latest Lightway protocol which ensures fast speeds on all its servers along with powerful security.

Is ExpressVPN good for gaming?

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for gaming right now, thanks to its fast speeds, low ping times, comprehensive privacy features, and easy-to-use apps for a variety of devices. That’s a winning formula.

Can you be tracked using IPVanish?

No, you cannot be tracked while using IPVanish as it offers a strict no-logging policy as well as an obfuscation feature on its OpenVPN protocol.

Read more Comparisons!

• ExpressVPN vs Cyberghost
• Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
• ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
• ExpressVPN vs PIA
• ExpressVPN vs Hotspot Shield
• ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN

NordVPN and Private Internet Access are two well-known VPNs that offer consumers high-speed encrypted internet access as well as online protection.

You’re certainly not alone asking which service is superior. Both VPNs have extensive server networks, support multiple streaming platforms, and provide excellent security.

Nonetheless, they’re extremely distinct VPN providers, which can make your decision much more difficult than it needs to be. So, today, we’ll test both VPNs against one other in terms of speed, security, features, and ease of use. Let’s see which is better: NordVPN vs PIA.

NordVPN vs Private Internet Access: Head to Head Comparison

	NordVPN	PIA
Trustpilot Rating:	4.4	4.6
Servers:	5600+ servers in 60 countries	35000+ servers in 80+ countries
Logs policy:	No logs	No logs
Pricing:	Starts from $3.29/month	Starts from $2.19/month
VPN protocols:	L2TP/IPsec, OpenVPN, IKEv2, Nordlynx	OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, IKEv2
Streaming Compatibility:	Hulu, Amazon Prime, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more	Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more
Platforms:	Linux, Windows, Firefox, Chrome, macOS, iOS, and Android	iOS, Windows, Mac, and Android
Simultaneous connections:	6 devices	10 devices
Support:	24/7 live chat, FAQs, knowledge base, email support	knowledge base, FAQs, 24/7 live chat, email support

NordVPN vs PIA VPN; Which one is faster?

People often assume that VPNs would offer faster speeds than they have dreamed of. But the truth is that virtual private networks tend to offer speeds based on your base connection. Yes, they do help eliminating ISP throttling and the speeds are fast, but that all depends on the VPN you select and the protocol you choose.

We conducted NordVPN vs PIA speed tests on all protocols to figure which VPN offers better speeds overall on the following base criteria: 100 Mbps download speed/100 Mbps upload speed.

Protocols	NordVPN	PIA
Nordlynx/WireGuard	79/64	75/56
OpenVPN (TCP)	50/32	52/15
OpenVPN (UDP)	79/41	68/17

The WireGuard tunnelling protocol is used by both services. NordVPN just refers to it as NordLynx. As a result, NordVPN connected without issue, with only a 21% average speed drop for downloads and a 44% average drop-off for uploads. PIA’s download speed, on the other hand, dropped by 25 percent.

The average download speeds with PIA on the OpenVPN UDP protocol plummeted by 32%, while upload speeds declined by 83%. With NordVPN, download speeds dropped by 21% and upload speeds dropped by 59%.

The speed decreases are due to the fact that OpenVPN TCP is a slower and safer alternative. The average download speed of NordVPN is reduced by 50 percent, while upload speeds are reduced by 68 percent. PIA, on the other hand, isn’t that dissimilar. Their average download speeds are 58 percent, with 85 percent upload speeds.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Which one has the best features?

One of the ways VPN providers may set themselves apart is by offering unique features. In our PIA VPN vs NordVPN comparison, we compared various features of both VPNs and the results are as follwos:

Split tunneling

Split tunnelling is available in both services, and they’re implemented similarly. So, you can set up whichever option is most useful for you.

During our tests, we discovered that the feature in PIA’s case didn’t always perform as it should. On NordVPN for websites and apps, the same feature worked flawlessly.

Split tunnelling is a reduced version of PIA’s desktop feature on mobile. It is available for specific apps but not for webpages.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Kill Switch

Kill switches are accessible in the NordVPN and PIA apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. A kill switch for Linux is also available by NordVPN.

We intentionally disconnected our VPN connection while running an IP checking tool to see if the kill switches were working properly. Our IP address was always secured by PIA and NordVPN.

Because it has an app-specific kill switch and an internet kill switch that disables everything when the VPN connection goes down, NordVPN provides greater control than PIA. Because it is safer, we recommend that you utilise the internet kill switch.

PIA provides a one-of-a-kind kill switch feature that disables your internet connection until you launch the VPN app.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Ad-blocker

NordVPN’s CyberSec is a built-in technology that blocks harmful websites, prevents botnet control, and allows you to bypass intrusive adverts. MacOS, Android,  Windows, iOS, and Linux are all supported.

PIA also has an ad-blocker built in called PIA MACE that helps to keep malware at bay. It isn’t the best ad-blocker, but it will suffice.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Additional features

Both PIA and NordVPN offer a free SOCKS5 proxy, however the former also includes Shadowsocks, which NordVPN only offers on Android.

Each service has its own DNS server. NordVPN differs from Private Internet Access in that it offers Double VPN and obfuscated servers, which can help if the government bans VPN traffic.

For further protection, NordVPN uses the Tor network in conjunction with its Onion over VPN capability.

Handshake Naming System, or HNS for short, is a unique feature of PIA. It helps prevent DNS-level blocking by decentralising the domain name system. While this functionality seems interesting, it will only be beneficial to selected users: if you can’t access Facebook, HNS won’t help you either.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Private Internet Access vs NordVPN: which VPN is more secure?

AES encryption is used by both NordVPN and PIA. The AES-256-CBC cipher with the SHA-512 hash function is used by NordVPN. PIA has a wider range of options, allowing you to choose between AES-128-CBC with SHA-1 (the default setting) and AES-256-CBC with SHA-256 (the strong setting). NordVPN excels not just in encryption but also in location,  transparency, and infrastructure.

Jurisdiction

When analyzing NordVPN vs PIA security in detail, the first thing to look at was jurisdiction. NordVPN is based in Panama, a country known for its privacy. It’s not present in the Five, Nine, and Fourteen Eyes jurisdiction. This is fantastic news because it implies that seizing somebody’s data will always necessitate a Panamanian court warrant.

Because PIA is based in headquartered the United States, the service provider is at the heart of the Five Eyes. Furthermore, some domestic legislation, such as the recently reauthorized Patriot Act, pose a threat to your privacy.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Logging

As for NordVPN vs PIA logging policies, PIA claims that the company does not collect activity logs. This has been verified on multiple occasions when authorities have requested data from PIA.

The privacy policy of NordVPN is significantly more transparent. They claim they aren’t storing any of your information. So there is nothing to show when the government comes knocking. This is comforting because it corresponds to their RAM-only architecture claims. This stance has also been supported by an independent audit conducted by PwC.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Encryption Protocols

With the OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, PIA uses an AES-256 cipher with SHA256 for authorization and an RSA-4096 handshake. Within the VPN software, PIA also allows users to change protocols and encryption cyphers (Windows and Mac OS).

NordVPN employs an AES-256 cipher with SHA256 authorisation and an RSA-4096 handshake with OpenVPN and IKEv2 in the same way that PIA does. NordVPN, like PIA, offers the WireGuard protocol with the ChaCha20 encryption upgrade.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Netflix and other streaming services unblocking

When it came to NordVPN vs PIA streaming capabilities, Netflix proved to be a difficult nut to crack with PIA. Even if Netflix in the United States worked, it was slow and the video quality was poor. Meanwhile, NordVPN had some issues at initially, but after turning off the custom DNS option, it was able to access blocked libraries.

With BBC iPlayer, PIA’s lucky streak came to an end. It displayed the error “BBC iPlayer only works in the UK,” preventing access to the site. In the meantime, NordVPN had no issues accessing the site’s content.

HBO Max is one of the most difficult to get around – only a few services are able to get around these restrictions. PIA was unable to obtain access to the streaming service. In the meantime, NordVPN was one of the few services that was able to unblock HBO Max.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

Torrenting and P2P

P2P is supported by both NordVPN and PIA. So you’ll be users can download torrent files from either service.

Because PIA does not distinguish between specialised and non-P2P servers, it makes no difference which server you connect to.

Meanwhile, NordVPN operates in a unique way. It has dedicated torrent servers as well as ordinary servers. Technically, you can torrent on any server, but if P2P activity is identified, you’ll be redirected to a P2P server automatically.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Plans and pricing; Which one is more affordable?

Prices and Plans	NordVPN	PIA
Periods	1 month	1 month
	1 year	6 months
	2 years	2 years
Special offers and discounts	70% off on the 2-year plan	3 Years + 3 Free Months
Lowest price per month	$3.49/month	$2.03/month
Highest price per month	$11.99/mo	$9.95/mo

Private Internet Access is significantly less expensive than NordVPN in terms of price. As for similarities, both the VPNs offer risk-free 30-day money-back guarantees for you to test out the service.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Server locations

Private Internet Access has the most servers of any VPN we’ve tested, with over 30000. With 5600+ servers, NordVPN still outnumbers the competition, but Private Internet Access remains the obvious winner.

The number of server locations is a more direct comparison, with Private Internet Access having 78 versus NordVPN’s 60.

Final Result: PIA is the Winner!

Apps, interface, and ease of use

	PIA	NordVPN
OS supported	Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android	Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android
Other devices and operating systems	Kodi, Fire TV devices, and Android TVs	Kodi, Fire TV devices, and Android TVs
Browser extensions	Chrome, Opera, & Firefox	Chrome & Firefox
Simultaneous connections	Ten	Six

NordVPN and PIA offer apps for whichever device you use on a daily basis. Let’s check out the NordVPN vs PIA device compatibility in detail below:

Desktop apps

One thing we like about PIA is how informative its desktop apps for Windows and Mac are. It shows you the details of your protocols, port, encryption, connection,  and authentication cipher. Although the user interface isn’t as appealing, it provides more data than some other VPN providers.

An interactive map with a nation sidebar is included in the NordVPN desktop app’s user interface. You get less information than PIA because the only presented information is the freshly given IP address. If you tap on the three dots in a sidebar near a country then a server selection screen appears, where you can choose the quickest or a specific server.

It’s worth noting that NordVPN has an odd distinction for macOS apps between the website app (sideload) and the App Store version. Only the OpenVPN tunnelling protocol is included in the sideload, which has the most recent upgrades. PIA makes no such distinction; their clients will behave the same regardless of where they are downloaded from.

Final Result: PIA is the Winner!

Mobile apps

There won’t be much of a distinction between Android and iOS apps in terms of user interface. This is true for both NordVPN and PIA. Both clients look to their desktop counterparts for inspiration.

A map and a country list are included in the NordVPN mobile apps. As a result, the functionality is equal to that of desktop clients. Your preferences are stored in a separate tab, making it simple to switch between them, make changes, and return to your previous task.

On mobile, PIA’s apps strive to strike a balance between minimalism and a wealth of connection information. The apps have less area than desktop apps, which leads to some unusual design choices.

Both service providers have added the ability to switch between dark and bright modes in apps.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Browser extensions

While both NordVPN and PIA have Firefox and Chrome apps, only PIA has an Opera app. 

NordVPN’s Chrome browser extension is far superior to PIA’s. It comes with an ad blocker, a ‘Bypass List,’ which functions as split tunnelling for your browser, and a complete server list.

Both VPNs have a WebRTC leak blocker that prevents your IP address from being leaked while unblocking Netflix and BBC iPlayer. NordVPN has the second-best Chrome extension (right after ExpressVPN).

In addition, NordVPN’s Firefox app is superior to PIA’s. The Threat Protection feature for ad blocking is included in the Firefox extension, just like it is in the NordVPN Chrome extension, and it effectively unblocks geo-restricted content.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Customer Support Comparison

Customer service options are comparable for NordVPN and PIA. Both offer email assistance as well as 24/7 live chat.

NordVPN offers an automated chatbot, which is the most significant distinction between the two. The chatbot provided by NordVPN is the best we’ve seen. It provides quick and accurate responses and makes it simple to contact a human if necessary.

There is no phone assistance, as is frequently the case with VPNs. You can, however, send your query via email.

Final Result: NordVPN is the Winner!

NordVPN vs PIA: which one wins?

It was a difficult decision, but after going over all the information and passing both VPNs through multiple tests, we believe NordVPN has the dominant position over Private Internet Access in the end.

Both firms provide secure Internet access, encrypting and protecting our browsing activity; nevertheless, there are a few factors that make NordVPN a more appealing option, including as their exclusion from the surveillance jurisdictions of the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and 14 Eyes.

Because of their randomised IP addresses, global access, and ability to connect more devices at once, Private Internet Access had an advantage. If you’re on a budget, they’re also the less expensive option, though not by much.

FAQs

Is PIA a zero log VPN?

PIA has a rigorous no logs policy, which means they don’t collect or keep any information about our users’ VPN usage. They don’t keep track of your surfing activities, connection, bandwidth use, or anything else like that.

Is PIA good for gaming?

Yes! Thanks to their NextGen server architecture, Private Internet Access offers fast speeds for gaming, and with 84 countries on their network, you can access a vast amount of geo-restricted content, gaming and otherwise.

Read more Comparisons!

• NordVPN vs Cyberghost
• NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
• NordVPN vs Surfshark
• NordVPN vs Hotspot Shield
• NordVPN vs Mullvad
• NordVPN vs ProtonVPN

Two of the most often used VPNs are ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA). The former is known for having exceptional streaming capabilities, while the latter is popular for having the most extensive server network on the market.

Despite being owned by the same business, Kape Technologies Ltd., we wanted to see if there was a substantial difference between the two VPNs.

Based on our extensive testing process, we compare how ExpressVPN and PIA performed in several testing categories in this VPN comparison.

ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access: Head to Head Comparison

Before we go into the details, let’s take a look at the fundamentals of each service to see where they lie:

	ExpressVPN	PIA
Trustpilot Rating:	4.6	4.6
Servers:	3000+ servers in 94 countries	35000+ servers in 80+ countries
Logs policy:	No logs	No logs
Pricing:	Starts from $8.32/month	Starts from $2.19/month
VPN protocols:	Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2	OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, IKEv2
Streaming Compatibility:	Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, and more	Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime, and more
Platforms:	Windows, iOS, Firefox, Chrome, Edge, macOS, Linux, and Android	iOS, Windows, Mac, and Android
Simultaneous connections:	5 devices	10 devices
Support:	24/7 live chat, knowledge base, FAQs, email support	24/7 live chat, FAQs, knowledge base, email support

ExpressVPN vs PIA speed test: Which one is faster?

ExpressVPN is known for being one of the fastest VPN services available. Lightway, their groundbreaking in-house tunnelling protocol, has proven to be effective in our experience.

We tested a variety of servers and found that the average download speed was over 80 Mbps on our 100 Mbps connection. This is truly fantastic: our internet connection was unaffected whether we were watching videos or playing online games.

It’s a shame we weren’t able to evaluate WireGuard’s speed results when utilizing Private Internet Access VPN. WireGuard is, after all, one of the best tunneling protocols available today, surpassed only by Lightway and NordVPN’s NordLynx. It’s lightning fast, secure, but was incompatible with our Windows operating system using PIA.

Because we couldn’t test PIA VPN’s WireGuard protocol, we decided to examine the second best alternative, OpenVPN.

VPN Protocol	ExpressVPN Download Speeds	PIA Download Speeds
OpenVPN UDP	82.65 Mbps	64.19
OpenVPN TCP	75 Mbps	40.24

With Private Internet Access, using OpenVPN (TCP/UDP) can be hit or miss. This is because the speeds may vary significantly depending on the country where the server is located.

Our  download speed was around 40 Mbps while connected to the server in India, for example. When we connected to a Swiss server later, though, it jumped to 64 Mbps. This is understandable considering Switzerland is significantly closer to our location.

ExpressVPN had faster speeds on average when utilizing the OpenVPN protocol, as you can see. Furthermore, the speed fluctuations were not as severe as with PIA VPN.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

PIA VPN vs ExpressVPN: Which one has the best features?

ExpressVPN and PIA keep their features simple, which ensures their ease of use. They do, however, have distinguishing characteristics that provide them a competitive advantage over one another. Let’s find out which is better: ExpressVPN vs PIA after reviewing their features:

Split tunneling

One of the most helpful VPN features is split tunnelling. It basically allows you to include or remove VPN traffic on applications.

Split tunneling is available in ExpressVPN’s Windows, macOS, and Android apps, and in PIA VPN’s macOS, Android, Windows, and Linux.

Kill Switch

Users can utilize a kill switch with both ExpressVPN and PIA. The kill switch on ExpressVPN is easier than PIA’s, and it can be turned on or off. If the VPN disconnects, it automatically disables all internet traffic.

On the other hand, PIA’s kill switch includes three options. It can be turned off, auto, or always. It blocks outside only traffic while the VPN is running in “auto” mode, and it blocks all traffic if the VPN is turned off in “always” mode. Only the “always” setting ensures that your traffic is blocked if the VPN disconnects abruptly.

Truth be told, ExpressVPN’s kill switch has a tiny advantage in terms of usability and security.

Ad-blocker

Private Internet Access offers PIA Mace, which is basically an ad blocker that also stops malware and trackers to help you increase your online privacy. However, please note that ExpressVPN users are deprived of this feature no matter how great the service may be.

Exclusive features

Port forwarding is supported by both Private Internet Access VPN and ExpressVPN, allowing you to access your device from everywhere, operate servers for multiplayer games, and run your own website, among other things. You must use ExpressVPN’s proprietary router application to set up port forwarding, but PIA VPN allows you to do it using one of its mobile or desktop apps.

Private Internet Access VPN, unlike ExpressVPN, includes a SOCKS5 proxy as well as Shadowsocks. When trying to download torrents or trying to get around China’s Great Firewall, using a proxy might be useful. In contrast, ExpressVPN has a way around China’s Firewall. You can use its Stealth server, which means no one will be able to tell you’re using a VPN.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

ExpressVPN vs PIA VPN: which VPN is more secure?

When looking for a reputable VPN service, security is a major factor to consider. Both ExpressVPN and PIA offer most security features that we expect from any VPN, such as a kill switch and an automated connection option.

However, we still looked into ExpressVPN vs PIA security attributes in detail to check out which is better:

Jurisdiction

We prefer ExpressVPN whenever it comes to jurisdiction. This is due to the fact that it is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.

Private Internet Access VPN, on the other hand, is based in the United States, one of the founding members of the Five Eyes alliance. This country is also notorious for its intrusive government, which has been accused of spying on online businesses.

Logging

As for ExpressVPN vs PIA logging policies, the former is a better option. Its privacy policy is simple to comprehend and lays out all of the information. As a result, ExpressVPN does not keep any connection logs, activity logs, browsing history, or other information. Your email address and payment method are the only things it saves.

Furthermore, ExpressVPN has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers, implying that all of its privacy claims are accurate.

Private Internet Access says in its privacy policy that it does not collect any logs other than your username, data use, and IP address. When you close the app, this information is erased.

Your email address, payment information, cookie identifiers, country of origin, and ZIP code will be saved on the VPN’s site. However, if you pay with cryptocurrency, you can prevent this.

Aside from that, PIA VPN’s privacy policy is a little confusing. The VPN “may disclose your Personal Data to any members of [its] group of companies,” according to the policy, which is a little scary.

Encryption Protocols

A VPN’s tunneling protocol selection can make or break the service. A large choice of alternatives will always make things much easier, whether you prefer speed or stability.

As a result, ExpressVPN is compliant with the following tunneling protocols:

• Lightway – It is a fast and reliable protocol that is available on macOS, Linux, Windows, and Android.
• OpenVPN (UDP/TCP) – The most widely used tunneling protocol. Its UDP variant is faster, while the TCP variant is more stable.
• IKEv2/IPsec – It is a suitable option for mobile devices.
• L2TP/IPsec – ExpressVPN supports the oldest protocol. Only use it if you can’t connect with any other protocol.

You also get the standard protocols with Private Internet Access:

WireGuard – This protocol is similar to ExpressVPN’s Lightway when it comes to security and speed.
OpenVPN (UDP/TCP)

IKEv2/IPsec

In short, Private Internet Access’ protocol selections isn’t far behind ExpressVPN’s.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

ExpressVPN vs PIA streaming capabilities

Each streaming site we tried ExpressVPN on got unblocked instantly, be it BBC iPlayer, Youtube TV, Netflix US, or even DAZN. It’s also important to note that ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer feature allows you to watch geo-restricted content on a smart TV or virtually on some other device that doesn’t support VPNs.

Now it’s time to talk about Private Internet Access. The reality is a little more disheartening: it didn’t perform as well as ExpressVPN. Netflix’s libraries in the United States and the United Kingdom were inaccessible to us. Surprisingly, we was able to access Indian Netflix’s geo-blocked content.

In addition, neither DAZN nor BBC iPlayer worked for us. We  could, however, access geo-blocked stuff on Youtube without issue.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

Torrenting and P2P

P2P activity is unrestricted across the whole ExpressVPN and PIA server network. You can torrent from every server with no restrictions on bandwidth or location.

Both VPN services were evaluated using popular torrent clients such as uTorrent, qBitTorrent, and Deluge. We were able to torrent files successfully on every server, and neither VPN caused any IP or DNS leaks.

ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access are equally reliable for anonymous P2P file-sharing when combined with AES-256 encryption, powerful kill switch capabilities, and secure privacy standards.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Plans and pricing; Which one is more affordable?

Prices and Plans	ExpressVPN	PIA
Periods	1 month	1 month
	6 months	6 months
	1 year	2 years
Special offers and discounts	35% off on 1 year plan	3 Years + 3 Free Months
Lowest price per month	$8.32/month	$2.03/month
Highest price per month	$12.95/mo	$9.95/mo

When it comes to cost, Private Internet Access VPN comes out on top. However, don’t make your decision only on the basis of financial concerns. If you want to watch geo-blocked content, for example, you should use ExpressVPN because Private Internet Access can’t unblock many streaming websites.

Final Result: PIA is the Winner!

Server locations

ExpressVPN offers a large server network, with over 3000 servers in 94 countries. But neither does PIA, which boasts a world-record-breaking 30000+ servers in 84 countries.

However, ExpressVPN has an edge that PIA doesn’t: RAM-only server technology. It assures that no information is stored on hard drives, and that all data on the servers is wiped clean when they are rebooted.

Final Result: PIA is the Winner!

ExpressVPN vs PIA device compatibility, interface, and ease of use

App Interface and Usability	ExpressVPN	PIA
Location selection	List form	List form
Multi-logins	Five	Ten
Mobile-friendly apps	Yes	Yes
Other devices and operating systems	iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, and Mac	iOS, Windows, Android, and macOS

Compatible apps have a big impact on your VPN selection. We reviewed the desktop and mobile apps, along with browser extensions of both VPNs for our Private Internet Access vs ExpressVPN comparison, and the results are as follows:

Desktop apps

The ExpressVPN and PIA desktop apps have a lot of similarities in our opinion. In addition to a separate tab for the settings menu, both VPNs include a small main window with a large button to establish connection.

PIA’s Windows and Mac apps, on the other hand, are more convenient. That’s because all kinds of information about the connection, such as the encryption, protocol, and the port in use, is readily available.

Furthermore, we believe that Linux users will prefer PIA’s app because it has a similar user experience to the Windows app, making it far easier to use than ExpressVPN. It’s also worth noting that Private Internet Access’ Linux app supports split tunnelling.

Mobile apps

Private Internet Access’ mobile apps (Android and iOS) are very similar to their desktop versions. Of course, this just applies to the main window; when you access the settings, the tab is sized to accommodate the smartphone’s limited screen.

In comparison to PIA’s desktop versions, there aren’t many differences. Keep in mind that for the time being, the iOS app does not support split tunneling.

ExpressVPN’s mobile apps are currently in a similar scenario. With the exception of the settings menu, they have a design that is nearly identical to the desktop apps.

There are, however, some distinctions between the Android and iOS versions, with the former being superior. That’s because ExpressVPN’s Android app includes split tunneling and a kill switch.

Browser extensions

PIA and ExpressVPN both have Chrome and Firefox extensions. These extensions are quite handy because they only protect your privacy when you browse websites but not the rest of your computer.

Please be aware that Private Internet Access, unlike ExpressVPN, also includes an Opera browser extension.

Final Result: PIA is the Winner!

Support Comparison

Both services have large knowledgebases of information. On the official site of ExpressVPN and PIA VPN, there are plenty of FAQ sections, setup manuals, and troubleshooting guides.

For individuals who want to communicate with a live person, there are email tickets and live chat options. As a result, we put both ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access’ live chat to the test.

While ExpressVPN’s customer service representative was able to assist us, PIA’s customer service representative struggled to resolve our issue.

Final Result: ExpressVPN is the Winner!

ExpressVPN vs PIA: which one wins?

In this ExpressVPN vs. PIA comparison, ExpressVPN comes out on top.

Despite the higher price, we believe it provides superior value. ExpressVPN outperforms PIA in terms of performance, functionality, security, support, and full streaming access, as well as having passed third-party audits.

PIA, on the other hand, is an excellent solution for individuals who require affordable protection against a variety of online threats as well as when torrenting.

Please remember that ExpressVPN has a superior track record and the necessary technical infrastructure to protect your privacy.

FAQs

Is PIA a zero log VPN?

Yes, PIA has a strict no-logs policy, which means that they don’t collect or keep any information about our users’ VPN usage. They also don’t keep track of your surfing activities, connection, bandwidth use, or anything else like that.

Is PIA good for gaming?

Yes! Thanks to its NextGen server architecture, Private Internet Access is a good choice for gaming. Also, with 84 countries on their network, the VPN can provide you with access to a wide range of geo-restricted content, including blocked games.

Read more Comparisons!

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• Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
• ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
• ExpressVPN vs IPVanish
• ExpressVPN vs Hotspot Shield
• ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN

You may find yourself comparing Surfshark vs IPVanish when looking for a VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections. Of course, this is far from the only function available from these VPN providers.

Surfshark and IPVanish are both lightweight applications with excellent user interfaces that achieve admirable speeds. Both are also reasonably priced in comparison to other brands in the market.

However, the question is, which one should you consider over the other? Continue reading this VPN comparison to find out!

Surfshark vs IPVanish: Head to Head Comparison

Looking for a quick go-through to know which is better: Surfshark vs. IPVanish? Well, this comparison table will help you do so:

Surfshark	IPVanish
Offers 3200+ servers in 65 countries	Offers 2000+ servers in 75+ locations
Consistently fast speeds	Speeds are above-average
Strong privacy and security	Security is impressive
Works with all major streaming services	Unblocks most streaming services
No-logging policy

Surfshark vs IPVanish: Speed Test

Surfshark is now one of the fastest VPNs in the world, thanks to their upgrading to the WireGuard VPN protocol. 

Whereas, all of IPVanish’s device apps are in the process of being upgraded to WireGuard. Until then, they continue to use the industry-standard OpenVPN protocol, which is slower than WireGuard.

VPN Provider	Download Speeds	Upload Speeds	Pings
Surfshark	87.32	76.89	111
IPVanish	80.11	71.36	156

You can see that Surfshark overall offers better speeds than IPVanish, thereby being considered a better option when it comes to speeds among Surfshark vs. IPVanish.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Which one has the best features?

Many individuals seek a VPN with a diverse set of capabilities for a variety of scenarios. Let’s take a look at how Surfshark and IPVanish perform in this area.

Split tunneling

Surfshark’s split tunneling feature is known as Whitelister that allows you to choose which apps should go through the VPN tunnel. As for IPVanish, split tunneling is only available on Android.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Stealth VPN

When you use a public wi-fi network, Surfshark’s stealth mode and function activates the VPN immediately. 

However, when it comes to understanding what it actually is, then it’s basically a feature built around obfuscation technology that conceals your VPN traffic and portrays it as regular traffic.

As for IPVanish, it comes with an OpenVPN Scramble feature that hides users’ OpenVPN traffic.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Ad-blocker

Surfshark provides a variety of services. CleanWeb is a function that prevents advertisements, trackers, and malicious domains from ruining your day or worsening your situation. This feature of Surfshark works perfectly well on multiple sites. We confirmed it through our testing.

When it comes to IPVanish, the VPN doesn’t offer an ad-blocker at all, giving Surfshark an edge.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Exclusive features (WireGuard, search function, and more)

Surfshark VPN provides a few more advanced capabilities than IPVanish when it comes to advanced features. Surfshark One, Surfshark Search, and Surfshark Alert are a few examples.

IPVanish does not include any additional security features. However, the company now incorporates online backup options with its VPN service thanks to a deal with SugarSync.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Surfshark vs IPVanish: which VPN is more secure?

A good VPN should provide excellent internet privacy and security. This implies that the service should use secure VPN protocols and encryption, as well as a no-logs policy.

However, we tested Surfshark vs. IPVanish’s security features and here is all we found out:

Jurisdiction

The Netherlands is where Surfshark is based. While it is in Europe, which isn’t ideal, it isn’t in a 5 Eyes jurisdiction like the United States or the United Kingdom, which should be avoided.

Surfshark has no record of privacy or security issues, according to our analysis, and has a spotless track history since its establishment in 2018.

IPVanish is a member of the Five Eyes monitoring organization and is situated in the United States. Privacy firms situated in the US can be ordered (and have been) to store user data for US authorities.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Logging

When it comes to Surfshark vs IPVanish logging policies, Surfshark is a strict no-logs VPN provider that even has a warrant canary in place. A warrant canary is a transparency report that shows whether any government has requested or required data records.

IPVanish has previously been detected collecting data for US authorities, and there is no guarantee that they will not do so again. The IPVanish logging scandal was first exposed in 2018.

This was the point at which IPVanish complied with FBI orders to log user data and provide over the documents. All of this occurred while IPVanish claimed to be a VPN service with “zero logs.”

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Encryption Protocols

Both of these VPNs are compatible with a variety of connection protocols. OpenVPN and IKEv2 are the most popular, but depending on the provider you choose, there are a few additional possibilities as well.

IPVanish users can use protocols including L2TP, SSTP, and PPTP. However, we would advise against it because these are only useful in certain situations.

Surfshark, on the other hand, collaborates with Shadowsocks, a company well-known for its ability to bypass China’s firewall. It also supports WireGuard, a speedier, security-focused protocol that is projected to become the industry standard in the near future.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Surfshark vs. IPVanish: Streaming

The site of Surfshark is vocal about its unlocking skills, listing the 14 Netflix libraries it can access. We succeeded in unblocking YouTube TV and all of the Netflix servers we attempted.

IPVanish is more coy about this part of its service, although it still unblocks YouTube TV and Netflix.

The BBC’s streaming service, however, is the most difficult to access; of the two, only Surfshark was able to provide us with access.

Both providers are useful and appear on our top Netflix VPN list if you’re in the UK. However, only Surfshark, can provide you with complete access to everything without lags.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Torrenting and P2P

One of the best VPNs for torrenting is Surfshark. Its apps have leak protection and kill switches built in. Surfshark can also guarantee blazing fast speeds for P2P torrenting on all servers thanks to the WireGuard technology.

IPVanish offers strong protection against your IP address being leaked, however server speeds are slow. There are also some issues regarding IPVanish’s location in the United States, which has some of the strictest copyright regulations we’ve encountered.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Plans and pricing; Which one is more affordable?

Prices and Plans	Surfshark	IPVanish
Periods	1 month	1 month
	6 months	3 months
	2 years	1 year
Special offers and discounts	82% off on 2 years + 2 months plan	65% off on 1-year plan
Lowest price per month	$2.30/month	$3.75/month
Highest price per month	$12.95/mo	$10.99/mo

As for pricing, Surfshark is currently the cheapest VPN if you’re all set for a long term commitment, along with 2 months free. And since it is the best VPN we have to offer, we ensure that you would not be disappointed at any cost.

As for IPVanish, its long term plan costs slightly more than Surfshark. While it comes with a shorter period of commitment, its features and jurisdiction make us think twice about it.

All in all, Surfshark has undoubtedly a cheaper subscription plan along with a robust service.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Server locations

Surfshark is the obvious winner in terms of server count, with more than 3,200 shared IP servers compared to IPVanish’s 2,000+ servers. Surfshark also offers static IP servers in five countries: Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Singapore.

IPVanish has server footprints in more than 75+ locations. However, the server count remains less.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Apps, interface, and ease of use

App Interface and Usability	Surfshark	IPVanish
Selection of servers	List-based	List and Map based
Mobile-friendly apps	Available	Available
Auto-setup wizard	iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, and Mac	Windows, iOS, Android, Mac

Here is all the information we received after testing Surfshark vs IPVanish device compatibility:

Desktop apps

Both companies have desktop apps that are simple to use. Surfshark has a button that links you to the fastest accessible server, as well as a list of servers you’ve previously used. Servers are neatly divided into three categories on the server selection screen: general-purpose, static IP, and MultiHop.

IPVanish’s desktop client is somewhat similar, except instead of requiring users to travel to the whole server list, it allows them to instantly select their desired location from the home page. You can view servers in either a list or a map format. A panel with information about your server, current protocol, and data usage is also available.

Final Result: It’s a Tie!

Mobile apps

Both providers’ apps have the same look and feel as their desktop clients – Surfshark keeps its minimalist aesthetic, while IPVanish keeps its data-heavy interface.

Neither lacks in terms of features. Both IPVanish and Surfshark offer a variety of protocols, as well as a kill switch (albeit IPVanish’s iOS app does not).

Surfshark’s apps, on the other hand, stand out for their simplicity. While you won’t get quite as much in-depth information, you will get some very useful features, such as a list of your recently used servers. If you regularly transfer from UK to US servers, you’ll have to physically search each time with IPVanish.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Browser extensions

Another thing that sets Surfshark apart is its outstanding browser extensions, available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. As for IPVanish, no browser extensions are offered.

Final Result: Surfshark is the Winner!

Customer Support Comparison

IPVanish and Surfshark both provide a variety of support options, including email, live chat, a knowledge base, and FAQs. The knowledgebase is the best place to go for step-by-step instructions and articles on how to fix minor installation, connectivity, and payment issues.

We used both live chat alternatives and were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the agents’ responses. The representatives were really responsive, answering our questions within minutes.

IPVanish, on the other hand, has an advantage over Surfshark in that it provides 24/7 phone assistance. Support agents can be reached via phone lines in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, and Spain.

Final Result: IPVanish is the Winner!

Surfshark vs IPVanish: which one is worth the money?

We’ve finally reached the conclusion of our IPVanish vs Surfshark analysis. Although Surfshark is clearly the superior VPN in most categories, IPVanish is still a viable option. What matters in the end are your priorities and the specific features you’re looking for in a VPN.

IPVanish is a fast and trustworthy VPN service with strong security features, a true no-logs policy, and a friendly support team.

Surfshark, on the other hand, is the best option. There are no restrictions on how many connections you can make. It does, however, provide faster overall speeds, improved network coverage, and enhanced privacy protections.

With static IP servers and the capability to access a broader spectrum of region-locked services, it’s also more versatile.

FAQs

Is IPVanish cheaper than Surfshark?

No, IPVanish is not cheaper than Surfshark. Its best plan costs $3.75/mo, while Surfshark comes at a price of $2.30/mo with 2 months of service absolutely free.

Is Surfshark good for gaming?

Yes, Surfshark is not a bad choice for gaming. Your connection will be stabilized, and your ping rate will be consistent. However, if you play using a VPN server that is located far away from your location, you may experience lag.

Can you be tracked using IPVanish?

No, you cannot be tracked using IPVanish. The best thing is that if you enable IPVanish’s obfuscation technology, it will hide that you’re using a VPN and not even your ISP would be able to guess that you’re actually connected to a VPN server.

Read more Comparisons!

• Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
• Surfshark vs NordVPN
• Surfshark vs Cyberghost
• Surfshark vs PIA
• Surfshark vs Windscribe
• Surfshark vs ProtonVPN