ExpressVPN vs IPVanish

ExpressVPN vs IPVanish: Detailed Comparison

Express VPN & IPVanish are one of the most popular and global services of VPN. Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. We tested and checked the main components of the VPN to determine which of them is more convenient, more practical, and more reliable.

Points of comparison of two VPN services:

1. Speed Test: ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish – we tested VPNs from different regions to track the speed in each of them. 
2. Features: ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish – we have compiled a list of features VPN, before this carefully checking each item.
3. Security & reliability: ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish – we checked the reliability and safety of the VPN for leaks DNS and IP.
4. Netflix and other streaming services – we checked how Express VPN & IPVanish work with streaming services such as Netflix, Kodi, Firestick.
5. Torrenting: ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish – What about working with torrents? Do the VPN services work with BitTorrent, uTorrent, and how?
6. Logging policy & Jurisdiction – perhaps this is the essential point, and we have not avoided it. 
7. Supported devices – how many and which devices support these VPN services, how many devices allow using one account.
8. Pricing & Plans: ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish – terms, and plans that VPN providers have, their comparison. 
9. Free versions & Trial versions – terms of use of free and trial versions.
10. Payment methods & Money Back Guarantee – How can you pay for the VPN service, and how long can you refund money?

After checking all these points, we concluded that ExpressVPN is much better than IPVanish.

Why? Let’s see.

Speed Test: ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish

The speed of a VPN depends on many factors, such as your Internet connection speed, the capabilities of the device you are using, encryption protocols, etc. Also, the speed depends on the distance of the chosen server.

To test the download speed, we chose several servers distant from each other to cover most of the globe.

ExpressVPN

Testing the ExpressVPN, we connected to the servers in USA, Germany, and Africa. 

Africa is probably the most challenging segment for VPN servers due to remoteness and low development. But when we connected to an African server via ExpressVPN, our team was pleasantly surprised: the download speed reached 65 Mbps, which was faster than the server in Germany.

United States:

Germany:

Africa:

IPVanish

What about IPVanish, it is not inferior in speed to ExpressVPN.  Having made a speed test, we recorded the following data:

United States:

Germany:

Africa:

As we can see, IPvanish figures are slightly lower, but also quite good.

No wonder why we say ExpressVPN is the winner here.

Features: ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish

ExpressVPN

• 160+ server locations in 94 countries;

You can select any location around the world and switch between them.

• has application for all devices (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, game consoles, and smart TV);

Easy to install and use applications for any device with all functions.

• support in chat and by mail 24/7;

You can ask for help at any time or ask for troubleshooting.

• anonymous web surfing;

You can use the internet anonymously and even make payments using Bitcoin.

• masking IP-address;

Your IP-address changes when you connected to any server and is hidden to everyone.

• there is no registration of the history of views and connections

VPN does not store data that can be used for your identification.

• prices start from $6.67

Prices start at 6.67, which is quite reasonable for such functionality.

• 30-day money-back guarantee

If you did not like the service, you can request your money back within 30 days from the date of purchase.

• advanced leak protection for IPv4 and IPv6 leaks, as well as DNS and WebRTC leaks

It has anonymous DNS servers with secure encryption, which makes the connection protected.

• browser extensions that are open source and integrated with HTTPS everywhere

You can use Express VPN in Google Chrome and Firefox.

• AES 256-bit, split-tunneling, OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, IPsec, Kill Switch

All data is protected by the most reliable encryption, TrustedServer technology is used to increase the security measure.

• support up to 5 simultaneous connections

You can use one account on 5 devices at the same time.

• gives access to streaming sites

Unlocks access to Netflix and other streaming companies.

IPVanish

• big amount of servers in 60+ countries

Available over 1000 servers worldwide.

• supports such devices as Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, routers

Convenient applications for all devices that support all functions, regardless of the type of tariff.

• there is no live chat, but there are a knowledge base and support by mail

Convenient knowledge base where you can find the answer to frequently asked questions.

• 7-day money-back guarantee

Money back guarantee within 7 days after making the payment.

• logs-free policy

No data saving, which ensures security and privacy.

• prices are from $6.49

Low prices and constant discounts on tariff plans.

• AES 256-bit, OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, IPsec, Kill Switch

Reliable protection with the most popular technologies.

• up to 10 devices can be connected simultaneously

You can use as many as 10 devices per license.

At this point, ExpressVPN wins because it has much more features, and also you get even more functions when you purchase a subscription.

Security & Reliability

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN has its technology called «TrustedServer». The essence of this technology is that when you disconnect or reboot VPN, all data is instantly erased.

Besides, ExpressVPN uses AES 256-bit, split-tunneling, kill-switches, as well as IP and DNS leak protection.

We tested in practice protection against leaks, and the results were expected: for the entire testing period, not a single leak was detected. ExpressVPN successfully hides your IP, when you used it, it displays the IP-address of the point to which server you connected.

ExpressVPN doesn’t save on protection, and all connections are securely protected. 

IPVanish

IPVanish uses AES 256-bit encryption. It is impenetrable and will make sure your computer/mobile device is well-defended 24/7. Also, it supports all of the major VPN protocols. Those include OpenVPN (the most advanced and secure protocol), PPTP, and L2TP / IPSec; OpenVPN is the one you should go with. It is the standard for most VPN-services. 

During the reliability and security test, IPVanish showed its best. IP-address and DNS leaks we did not find. You can be assured of security for at least three reasons:

– providing an IPv4-address, which ensures that your IPv6-address will not leak out of the tunnel;

– automatic activation DNS protection;

– if VPN connection is broken, then disabling it blocks all traffic to keep data safe.

In this regard, both VPN-services are almost on a par.

Netflix and other streaming services

One more function that we tested is access to streaming services. Not every VPN-service offers such a service. We faced this in this review: the ExpressVPN surpassed IPVanish.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN does not have separate services configured for streaming, but they provide access to streaming platforms from anywhere in the world. You just need to connect to the server of the country where you want to bypass the lock.

With the help of ExpressVPN, we managed to log in to more than 25 streaming services without any problems, including the most popular ones such as Netflix, Kodi, Firestick. We also managed to access BBC iPlayer, Hotstar, Hulu and even local broadcasts. In addition, ExpressVPN bypasses the blocking of online games, which gives many new features.

To access this feature, you need to buy a subscription to ExpressVPN, select a server in the United States, and log into the Netflix account. After that, you can watch movies in excellent quality and with fast download from any device. ExpressVPN does not slow down the connection; therefore, it is the best VPN-service for streaming.

IPVanish

Unfortunately, IPVanish can not boast like this. It was openly declared by the developers themselves. All the IPVanish servers we tried were blocked by Netflix. Although sometimes there was a notification that the server is passing, but it does not allow to watch movies and play online games, because the connection is immediately terminated.

Torrenting: ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish

uTorrent is a popular BitTorrent client that allows you to quickly and efficiently upload and download large files. Using ExpressVPN and IPVanish together with uTorrent, will reliably protect your traffic and provide you with complete privacy.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the best service for downloading torrents, as it reliably hides your IP address.

VPN does not store any visit logs that could be used for your identification. Therefore, you can use torrent absolutely anonymously.

If you made the binding of your IP-address to your uTorrent account, then even in this case you can be calm. Thanks to the Network Lock function, VPN will replace the binding of your IP address to the one to which you connected using the application. If for some reason the connection is interrupted, Network Lock will stop any outgoing traffic and ensure complete confidentiality.

When you use uTorrent through ExpressVPN there are no restrictions. You can safely download files of any size and visit any sites. High speed, reliability and secure data are provided.

To use torrents, you need only three simple steps: buy a subscription, connect to the server, and download uTorrent.

IPVanish

IPVanish is also suitable for using uTorrent. Using a VPN allows you to ditch the worry of being watched and torrent anonymously. IPVanish has SOCKS5 feature that enables you to maintain your privacy by keeping your real IP address hidden while passing your traffic through a fast offshore web proxy. Now you can go incognito while you torrent without sacrificing your speed.

VPN service keeps zero logs, so you can trust that our service stays out of your business.

The procedure for using is the same. You only need a working installation of uTorrent, an internet connection, and a secure IPVanish VPN account with the activated plan. 

Both VPN-services are great for Torrenting, and they do not underestimate the speed and keep data safe. 

Logging Policy & Jurisdiction

One of the most essential factors is Logging policy & Jurisdiction. Many VPN services claim that your data is safe, but there is a risk of transferring data to third parties. At-risk are the VPN-services that are registered in the countries of the alliance “5 eyes” and “7 eyes”.

ExpressVPN

Although the company is registered on the territory of the British Virgin Islands, it does not fall within scope of the laws of 5-eye alliance – an agreement between countries on the exchange of information. BVIs themselves regulate internal affairs and do not have special laws on data storage.

ExpressVPN does not store usage logs; the developers themselves report this: 

“We never store traffic logs, and we also do not maintain logs that could allow a mapping between IP, timestamp, and user. We work entirely based on shared IP addresses, which mean that one IP address will not lead back to a specific user.”

However, there are some nuances:

“To improve the distribution of network resources, we record generalized data on the volumes of transmitted traffic and the choice of server location. This data does not help identify the user in the investigation. We can collect the following information: dates (not time) when connecting to our service, the choice of server location, and the total amount of data transferred per day.”

All this means that the service stores some logs; however, this information can in no way help identify a specific user. ExpressVPN can be trusted.

IPVanish

IPVanish also provides a logs-free policy, but it is located in the United States, which is essential. The United States is included in the intelligence of 5 eyes, and in case of an order, the VPN will be obliged to provide data.

However, there is still nothing to worry about. Thanks to the logs-free policy, VPN service will simply have nothing to give, since no data is saved. You can be sure that the service upholds the privacy of its users.

Supported Devices

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN provides the application for all devices: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Firefox, Chromebook, Kindle Fire, Nook HD, Surface RT, Apple TV, PlayStation, Xbox, routers, game consoles, and Smart TVs. Within one subscription to ExpressVPN, you can connect up to 5 any devices to VPN servers. To connect more devices, you need to buy an additional subscription or use the VPN service on your router.

Everything is effortless: download the application for routers or manually configure your router to work with ExpressVPN. The service provides detailed instructions. After that, you can watch streams on all of your connected devices, protect Internet browsing without any restrictions.

IPVanish

IPVanish also has applications for many devices: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Windows Phone, Fire TV, Chrome OS, routers. On all devices, the VPN service works at maximum speeds safely. Easy to use and install, you can switch between servers without any problems.

This service gives ten simultaneous connections with one license. If you want to connect more devices (much more), you can also install IPVanish on the router and get unlimited possibilities. It will protect the entire home network and all connected devices. 

Pricing & Plans: ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish

ExpressVPN

Express VPN has three subscription plans:

• for the month – $12.95 per month
• for 6 months – $59.95 ($9.99 per month, saving 23%)
• for 12 months – $99.95 ($8.32 per month, saving 35%)

All plans have a 100% money-back guarantee within 30 days.

After purchasing a subscription, the following functions will be available to you regardless of the tariff:

• 24/7 support in online chat;
• access to ultrafast servers;
• no registration of browsing and connection history;
• the best encryption technology.

There are also bonuses such as:

• connect and register through the iOS app and get a week of free test access
• offer to register with a friend and you both will receive 30 free days in the service.

IPVanish

IPVanish also has 3 plans:

• for month – $10.00 per month;
• for 3 months – $26.99;
• for 12 months – $77.99.

Regardless of the subscription, the same conditions and a 7-day money-back guarantee are available. Now the site has 50% discounts.

Comparing prices of course ExpressVPN is a little expensive than IPVanish. However, do not forget that the functionality of the first is much more.

Free Versions & Trial Versions

Neither one nor the second VPN service offers its users a free ND trial period. Instead, they guarantee a refund if you are not satisfied with the functionality of the service. The only difference is how much the so-called “trial period” works.

In the case of ExpressVPN, this period lasts 30 days from the date of purchase of any tariff plan. During this time you can contact support, your subscription will be canceled, and the money returned. This time is enough to try all the functions and decide whether to spend money on the purchase VPN. You should be careful, after 30 days it’s impossible to return the money. And during this time you need to turn off the automatic renewal of your subscription if you are not going to use the service further.

IPVanish has a much shorter period. The company provides in the same way only seven days to experience the service. After this time, applications for cancellation of payment will not be considered.

In any case, it’s better to use this function than to entrust your data with a dubious free VPN service. Here you can be sure that your data is safe and will not fall into third parties when. As with the use of free VPN, the vulnerability is extremely high.

Payment Methods & Money Back Guarantee

ExpressVPN

There are many payment methods available in ExpressVPN: credit and debit cards, PayPal, UnionPay, WebMoney, GiroPay, AliPay, Yandex Money, SOFORT, iDeal, MINT, OneCard, KIarna, Interac, as well as payment by Bitcoin. Money-back guarantee is provided to you within 30 days after payment. You can contact support chat or e-mail at any time to request your money back. Your fee will be refunded in full without any commission.

IPVanish

IPVanish also supports many payment methods: credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discovery, JCB), PayPal, Bitcoin, iDeal, GiroPay, Delta, UnionPay.

The guarantee period is much shorter – only seven days from the date of purchase of the tariff plan. Requests after the deadline are not considered, the refund is made in US dollars.

You can return the funds by contacting the support service or by canceling the subscription on the Control Panel on the website. After that, within ten working days, you will receive your funds back without commissions. Before that, the VPN service team strongly recommends you read refund policy on the main page.

Our Verdict

Both VPN services are one of the most powerful and secure among all VPNs. High security, a considerable number of servers and features. However, based on all the tests and the results, ExpressVPN breaks ahead by a wide margin. All this can not boast of IPVanish.

• 30-day money-back guarantee
• 24/7 support via chat, mail, knowledge base and phone
• high connection speeds
• TrustedServer protection technology
• unlocking Netflix and other streaming services

Although the tariffs are higher than the rest, it is difficult to find a service with such a high-quality service. No wonder ExpressVPN is a leader in the VPN industry and our comparison.