This guide compares Surfshark vs IPVanish to establish which VPN provider stands out.
Surfshark and IPVanish are highly popular VPN services in the current market.
Following Surfshark’s recognition as our top VPN, there has been a demand for a comprehensive comparison with IPVanish.
While IPVanish now holds the second spot on our list of top VPN providers, it remains among the best VPN choices available.
Our evaluation will cover various aspects such as pricing, speed, device compatibility, features, and more regarding these VPN services.
A multitude of users rely on Surfshark and IPVanish to establish secure VPN connections across all their preferred Internet-connected devices.
This coverage includes streaming tools like the Amazon Firestick, Fire TV, Android TV boxes, PCs, Macs, phones, tablets, and more.
For newcomers to VPNs, a virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your Internet connection to render all activity from your connected devices unreadable.
By doing so, entities like your Internet service provider (ISP), hackers, developers, website operators, and other malicious entities are prevented from monitoring your activities.
When selecting the ideal VPN for your needs, several factors come into play.
We also carry out speed tests on both services to ascertain which offers faster connections on our end.
Surfshark vs IPVanish – The Fundamentals
To comprehensively compare Surfshark vs IPVanish, we registered accounts with both services.
Both providers are reputable in the VPN field, and here are some key features accessible to all subscribers with an account.
Surfshark’s Key Features
- Strict Zero Log Policy
- Excellent Firestick and Android apps
- Unlimited simultaneous connections per account
- Competitive pricing with our Exclusive Discount
- High download & upload speeds
- Functional Kill Switch on Firestick, Fire TV, and Android TV
- Integrated ad and malware blocker
- Split Tunneling feature available
- 3,200+ VPN servers in 65 countries globally
- Unblocks geo-restrictions on popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime Video
- Supports various VPN protocols
- Real-Debrid compatibility
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Multiple payment options
IPVanish’s Key Features
- Strict Zero Log Policy
- Uses 256-bit encryption
- 2,000+ VPN Servers across 75+ countries
- Speedy downloads
- Economical pricing with our Special Discount
- Unlimited simultaneous connections per account
- Compatible VPN apps for various devices
- Supports popular VPN protocols
- Offers a SOCKS5 Proxy Server
- Works with Real-Debrid
- Integrated Kill Switch on Windows, Mac, and iOS
- Split Tunneling functionality
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 24/7 customer assistance
- Diverse payment options available
Further details regarding crucial features of each VPN service are provided below.
Strict No-Log Policy
One of the primary aspects to consider when comparing VPN services is their stance on logging user data.
Both Surfshark and IPVanish strictly enforce a no-logs policy, indicating they do not track or retain records of your online activities.
While some VPN services, especially free ones, might log user data for sale to third parties, this is not the case with these renowned providers.
This is an important topic to discuss as Surfshark is based in the Netherlands. Their local laws do not force VPN providers to keep logs. This is a huge plus for Surfshark, as the Netherlands have some of the best laws when it comes to user privacy. Surfshark stated on their website that being based in the Netherlands allows them to play by rules that are advantageous for user privacy.
On the other hand, IPVanish is located in the United States. While the United States doesn’t have a mandatory data retention law, authorities can request access to customer data under the Stored Communications Act. If a specific user is identified, a VPN provider may be required to keep logs of that individual’s online activities and financial details for at least 90 days. This difference in location can impact user privacy and data security significantly.
IPVanish Servers
- 2,000+ Servers
- 75+ Countries
Servers and server locations are crucial considerations when selecting a VPN provider.
Unblocking Streaming Apps & Services
One essential aspect to think about with VPNs is their capability to bypass any geo-restrictions and censorship commonly found in streaming apps.
This challenge is often encountered with popular streaming apps/services like Netflix, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Peacock TV, and others.
Following numerous tests with these renowned streaming apps, we discovered that Surfshark successfully bypassed several geo-restrictions, whereas IPVanish did not.
We went as far as creating a detailed article that evaluated Surfshark’s compatibility with Netflix, demonstrating that this VPN worked exceptionally well in circumventing geo-restrictions!
Ads/Malware Blocking
The capacity to block ads and malware is increasingly crucial in today’s expanding digital landscape. This is an area where Surfshark outshines IPVanish.
Surfshark provides the highly-regarded CleanWeb feature on NVIDIA Shield, designed to halt irritating ads/malware and fortify defenses against cyber threats.
A feature like this holds significant importance for individuals using movie streaming sites and sports streaming platforms to access content from their devices.
Pricing
When comparing Surfshark and IPVanish, it’s crucial to note that both are paid services.
Free VPNs usually come with strings attached, which is why we strongly advise against using a free VPN to safeguard your privacy.
Many free VPN providers sell user data to third-party buyers, completely defeating the purpose of using a VPN.
AVOID FREE VPNs AT ALL COSTS.
The cost of a VPN is usually less than that of a bucket of popcorn at a movie theater but ensures your online safety.
VPN providers typically offer a range of prices, so it’s recommended to visit each service’s official website for current pricing:
Presently, Surfshark and IPVanish have similar pricing, as depicted below.
Note: These prices are subject to change, so always refer to the official websites for current pricing
Surfshark Prices
- $2.21/month for 2-year plan
- $3.99/month for 1-year plan
- $12.95/month for 1-month plan
IPVanish Prices
- $2.50/month for 2-year plan
- $3.99/month for 1-year plan
- $10.99/month for 1-month plan
As seen, both VPNs provide similar pricing. Surfshark is more affordable for longer-term plans like two years. IPVanish is cheaper for monthly payments, but we discourage this as it’s costly.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
Both Surfshark and IPVanish offer 30-Day Money-Back Guarantees for their VPN services. This is a fabulous benefit that users should take full advantage of to determine which is best. Simply pay for a 1-month subscription and test them both to find the VPN best suited for your needs. You can then reach out to Customer Support and cancel for a complete refund.
Surfshark vs IPVanish – Device Connections
In today’s technology-filled world, many of us are using numerous devices at the same time that benefit from a VPN. Both Surfshark and IPVanish offer unlimited simultaneous connections for all your favorite devices. This means you never have to worry about browsing the internet unprotected with one Surfshark or IPVanish account.
Enjoy Surfshark or IPVanish on your mobile phone, tablet, streaming device(s), PC, and more all at the same time, and never worry about your data being tracked or logged.
Most other VPNs only allow users to connect between 5-10 devices to their VPN account at a time. Many of us have up to 12 internet-connected devices at any given moment in our household. This means you will likely be missing out on security and privacy for numerous devices if using other VPN providers.
Device Compatibility
One of the most important factors when choosing a VPN Provider is device compatibility. Both Surfshark and IPVanish have easy-to-install applications that you can find in numerous app stores. This is important for cord-cutters and streamers who use their VPN service in conjunction with streaming apps and services.
However, all apps are not created equal as we found in our comparison. When testing these apps on Firestick, the Surfshark application stood out above IPVanish. The user interface and available settings make the Surfshark app a much better choice when compared to IPVanish. This is vital for those who are trying to adjust settings, change servers, and access other features within a VPN application.
Below are screenshots of both the Surfshark application and the IPVanish application on Firestick.
Surfshark Application Screenshots
IPVanish Application Screenshots
The settings option within Surfshark’s Firestick app is packed with various options to enhance your experience while connected.
Kill Switch
Activating a kill switch on a VPN will cut off your internet connection if your VPN disconnects for any reason.
However, most VPN services do not offer a kill switch on Firestick, Fire TV, and Android TV devices, including IPVanish. Surfshark stands out by providing a functioning kill switch on these devices not commonly seen in other VPN providers.
Torrenting
When it comes to torrenting and downloading content from torrent sites, using a secure VPN is crucial.
In our comparison, IPVanish emerges as the top VPN for torrenting due to its SOCKS5 proxy server, which offers an additional layer of security for torrent traffic, a feature not present in Surfshark or many other VPN services.
SOCKS5 is an Internet protocol that enhances the security of your VPN traffic during torrenting.
Real-Debrid Compatible
Many individuals are combining their streaming apps with Real-Debrid for access to premium links and smoother playback.
Streaming without Real-Debrid can lead to buffering and lag issues, making this service essential for a smoother experience.
After testing multiple VPNs, we discovered that both Surfshark and IPVanish are compatible with Real-Debrid, meeting the needs of many subscribers. For more details on using Surfshark with Real-Debrid, click the link below.
Does Surfshark Work With Real-Debrid?
Keep reading for our final comparison of Surfshark vs IPVanish.
Surfshark vs IPVanish – Final Verdict
An assessment of Surfshark vs IPVanish reveals both similarities and distinct differences between the two VPN services, each offering their unique strengths.
Regardless of your choice, both Surfshark and IPVanish prioritize your online security. Check out our breakdown of Surfshark vs IPVanish:
Speed
Our tests indicate that Surfshark delivers faster download speeds compared to IPVanish, providing you with a speed advantage.
Surfshark
Price
Both services offer comparable prices. However, Surfshark provides a slightly better rate for long-term plans.
Advantage: Surfshark (but it’s close)
Unblocking Streaming Apps & Services
Surfshark successfully bypassed several geo-restrictions on popular streaming apps like Netflix and Prime Video, unlike IPVanish.
Advantage: Surfshark
Torrenting
IPVanish offers a SOCKS5 Proxy Server for added protection to VPN traffic when torrenting, a feature that most other VPNs lack.
Advantage: IPVanish
Servers
Surfshark boasts over 3,500 servers, whereas IPVanish has 2,000 servers, providing more options for users looking at overall numbers.
Advantage: Surfshark
Device Connections
Both Surfshark and IPVanish allow unlimited device connections with a single account simultaneously.
Advantage: Even
Encryption & Log Policy
Both providers offer 256-bit encryption and “zero-log” policies, making this feature even across both services.
Advantage: Even
User Interface/Application
Surfshark stands out with a superior interface and application design compared to IPVanish after extensive testing.
Advantage: Surfshark
Kill Switch
Among Firestick, Fire TV, and Android TV devices, Surfshark offers a functional kill switch, which IPVanish lacks.
Advantage: Surfshark
VPN Protocols
Both VPNs offer popular protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN (UDP & TCP), and IKEv2.
Additionally, IPVanish provides L2TP, PPTP, and SOCKS5 proxy on Windows PC and Mac computers, giving it a slight edge in this regard.
Advantage: IPVanish
Real-Debrid Compatibility
Both Surfshark and IPVanish work well with Real-Debrid and other premium link services, making them equally compatible.
Advantage: Even
Surfshark vs IPVanish – Closing Thoughts
Both VPNs adhere to a strict zero-log policy, ensuring your data’s security and privacy.
While prices are similar, choosing Surfshark for the two-year plan can lead to cost savings.
IPVanish offers SOCKS5, crucial for torrenting, among other protocols, competing closely with Surfshark.
Surfshark excels in speed tests, showcasing faster performance on various devices compared to IPVanish.
Overall, Surfshark emerges as the superior choice between the two VPNs.
However, IPVanish remains a reputable VPN ranked second after Surfshark in TROYPOINT VPN rankings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which VPN is Better Between Surfshark vs IPVanish?
This evaluation compares Surfshark and IPVanish to determine the superior VPN provider.
Is Surfshark Cheaper than IPVanish?
In many cases, Surfshark offers more affordable monthly rates, especially with our exclusive discount.
Is Surfshark Faster than IPVanish?
Absolutely. Our speed tests reveal Surfshark’s faster performance on Amazon Firestick and Windows PC compared to IPVanish.
Does Surfshark or IPVanish Offer Any Deals?
Indeed, both VPN services provide exclusive deals for TROYPOINT visitors, detailed in this guide.
What is the Best VPN?
Preferences in VPN services differ, so we recommend experimenting with various options to find the most suitable one for you.
How Many Connections Do Surfshark and IPVanish Provide?
Both Surfshark and IPVanish support unlimited device connections with a single account.