ExpressVPN vs IPVanish Comparison
When it comes to choosing the right VPN, both ExpressVPN and IPVanish stand out as top contenders. To help you decide which one might be the best fit for your needs, we conducted a detailed comparison of these two services. We evaluated their performance across various categories to provide a balanced and thorough assessment. Here’s a closer look at how ExpressVPN and IPVanish stack up against each other.
When comparing short-term VPN subscriptions, IPVanish stands out as the more economical option. On the other hand, ExpressVPN becomes increasingly cost-effective with longer commitments due to its substantial discounts on extended plans. Nevertheless, for those seeking maximum savings, IPVanish's two-year subscription plan still offers the better value overall.
Regarding trial periods, ExpressVPN demonstrates greater flexibility with its comprehensive 30-day money-back guarantee available across all subscription tiers. This gives users a full month to thoroughly test the service before making a final decision. IPVanish limits this same 30-day guarantee to only its annual and biennial plans, though iOS users can access a shorter seven-day trial when selecting monthly billing.
Current promotions for ExpressVPN include a significant 49% discount plus three bonus months with their annual subscription. Meanwhile, IPVanish is offering savings of up to 63% on their service packages.
ExpressVPN provides router firmware and a dedicated Linux application, enabling users to connect multiple devices through a single network while conserving their device allowance.
In contrast, IPVanish supports unlimited simultaneous connections, ideal for households with numerous gadgets, though certain platforms may require technical expertise for manual configuration.
Both services lack universal split tunneling capabilities. ExpressVPN restricts this feature to desktop environments, while IPVanish offers it exclusively on Android, limiting flexibility in routing specific app traffic.
A unique aspect of ExpressVPN is its browser extensions, which sync with the desktop client to dynamically adjust your virtual location directly within the browser. This integration streamlines access to geo-blocked websites without launching separate apps.
For streaming enthusiasts, ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer acts as a geo-spoofing tool for devices like gaming consoles and smart TVs, bypassing VPN compatibility issues.
Neither provider fully supports split tunneling across all operating systems, a gap addressed by specialized VPNs covered in third-party guides focused on advanced traffic routing solutions.
ExpressVPN demonstrates superior global streaming capabilities
It consistently unblocks major platforms like Disney+, HBO Max
and over 20 distinct Netflix libraries worldwide without restrictions
The service maintains partial functionality in China through mirror websites
though users must initially register via alternative domains
IPVanish focuses primarily on US-based streaming services
but encounters persistent challenges with international content platforms
China connectivity remains virtually impossible for IPVanish users
due to government blacklisting of its server IP addresses
ExpressVPN occasionally faces brief disruptions in China
but generally restores access faster than competitors
While IPVanish publishes experimental connection guides
its transparency about Chinese inaccessibility contrasts with ExpressVPN's workarounds
Both services continue evolving
with ExpressVPN expanding its streaming compatibility
and IPVanish improving US platform performance
Both VPN services prioritize user-friendly interfaces
with intuitive navigation across various devices.
ExpressVPN’s design emphasizes simplicity—switching servers
requires just a tap, though options are nested slightly deeper.
IPVanish, meanwhile, offers immediate access to regional servers
and specific locations directly from the home screen,
eliminating extra steps for power users.
While both apps avoid overwhelming visuals,
IPVanish edges ahead for those valuing quick customization
without layered menus.
Screen adaptability remains strong for either choice,
ensuring smooth operation on tablets, phones, and desktops alike.
When it comes to mobile security, IPVanish stands out with a range of advanced features. Users have the ability to scramble OpenVPN traffic, block LAN access, and take advantage of split tunneling. Additionally, they can switch between different protocols. In contrast, ExpressVPN offers fewer options, primarily focusing on automatic reconnection and protocol selection. However, one of its notable features is the Smart Location function, which connects users to the most optimal server for speed.
Desktop applications unlock advanced capabilities beyond basic mobile versions for both services.
IPVanish stands out with scheduled IP rotation cycles and customizable DNS server integration options.
ExpressVPN counters with granular app-specific traffic routing and emergency network disconnection protocols.
While mobile apps handle simple connections, desktop versions reveal each provider's technical priorities.
IP randomization appeals to privacy-focused users, whereas connection micro-management suits multi-taskers.
Both platforms demonstrate how desktop environments enable deeper network customization than portable devices.
ExpressVPN dominates in global accessibility
spanning twice as many countries as IPVanish.
While IPVanish concentrates resources in strategic hubs—
prioritizing server clusters across regions like the US, UK, and Brazil—
ExpressVPN opts for expansive geographic diversity.
The trade-off lies in server density versus coverage breadth:
IPVanish ensures robust performance in high-traffic zones,
while ExpressVPN caters to users needing connectivity in less common locations.
VPN Comparison: ExpressVPN vs IPVanish
Sports enthusiasts and streaming fans benefit from both providers' multi-tiered location selection capabilities
Urban-level server targeting helps evade blackout restrictions imposed by major sports leagues and broadcast networks
The city-specific connection feature unlocks municipal content libraries and live regional programming access
This granular geo-spoofing proves essential for watching local events blocked in certain markets or territories
Precision server selection bridges the gap between physical location and digital content availability
When evaluating global coverage, ExpressVPN and IPVanish differ in their server distribution strategies.
ExpressVPN operates servers in over 90 countries, emphasizing a broad presence across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
IPVanish, while slightly more concentrated, maintains servers in 75+ nations with strong coverage in North America and Europe.
Both providers prioritize strategic locations to optimize speed and accessibility for users worldwide.
ExpressVPN includes regions like Africa and the Middle East, where IPVanish has limited server options.
IPVanish focuses on high-density areas, offering multiple server choices in major cities for load balancing.
Geographic diversity remains a key distinction between these VPN services in their network infrastructure.
Both IPVanish and ExpressVPN support the OpenVPN protocol, but IPVanish also offers L2TP and WireGuard options. ExpressVPN, however, supports IKEv2 on macOS and Linux, and has developed its own protocol called Lightway, which is designed to be more efficient and easier to audit. This proprietary protocol also ensures a secure connection when switching between mobile data and WiFi.
When it comes to encryption, both services use 256-bit AES and SHA512 hash. The key difference lies in the RSA key size: ExpressVPN utilizes 4,096-bit RSA keys, while IPVanish uses 2,048-bit RSA keys. Moreover, ExpressVPN employs cipher block chaining to further conceal the fact that you are using a VPN, which can be especially beneficial in regions like the United Arab Emirates where VPN usage is restricted.
IPVanish provides an additional feature that allows for the scrambling of OpenVPN traffic, though this feature is not available with other protocols.
Both ExpressVPN and IPVanish prioritize user privacy with integrated kill switch functionality.
This essential security feature automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops, preventing potential data leaks.
ExpressVPN offers this protection across all its desktop applications, while IPVanish provides kill switch capabilities on Windows, macOS, and Android platforms.
Without this safeguard, temporary VPN disconnections could leave mobile users particularly vulnerable to unintentional data exposure when browsing on smartphones or tablets.
When evaluating VPNs for privacy-conscious users and gamers, jurisdiction and anonymity features play critical roles.
ExpressVPN permits anonymous registration through temporary email and cryptocurrency, enhancing user privacy despite retaining connection dates, data volume, and server details.
In contrast, IPVanish operates under U.S. jurisdiction, potentially subjecting it to intelligence-sharing agreements among Five Eyes nations, though its no-logs policy claims to mitigate this risk.
Gamers benefit from both providers’ low-latency networks, with each delivering sufficient speeds for seamless gameplay.
ExpressVPN’s broader global server presence—available in twice as many countries as IPVanish—provides gamers with more regional server options, potentially reducing ping times.
While speed tests show negligible differences between the two, server diversity can be a deciding factor for competitive gaming.
For those prioritizing anonymity or server flexibility, ExpressVPN holds an edge, though IPVanish remains viable for users less concerned about jurisdictional nuances.
Explore specialized gaming VPN guides to further tailor your choice based on specific needs.
Both services offer excellent customer support, making it easy to get the help you need. We reached out to their live chat teams and were impressed by their quick response times, often replying within seconds. Even when we contacted them via email, the turnaround was much faster than anticipated. To test their responsiveness, we posed three questions to each service. Here's what we found:
When comparing two top-tier services like ExpressVPN and IPVanish, it's important to note that both offer high-quality performance. For those seeking an affordable, versatile VPN that can be installed on a wide range of devices, IPVanish is a solid option.
However, if you need a more robust solution, ExpressVPN stands out as the superior choice. Despite having fewer servers in each location, ExpressVPN’s extensive network spans a vast global area. This allows users to access content from regions where many other VPNs fall short. Its compatibility with major streaming platforms and its ability to function even in restrictive environments, such as China, make it an ideal choice for expatriates and frequent travelers.
Additionally, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can test the service for a full month. If it doesn’t meet your expectations, simply contact their support team, and you’ll receive a complete refund.
What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One
A Netflix VPN is a specialized tool that enables viewers to bypass geographical restrictions on streaming content by masking their actual location and making it appear as if they're browsing from another country. This technology has become increasingly popular among Netflix subscribers who wish to access shows and movies that are only available in specific regions outside their own. By connecting to servers in different countries, a Netflix VPN effectively unlocks a much wider library of entertainment options that would otherwise be inaccessible due to licensing agreements and regional content limitations.
Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?
If you're struggling with a Netflix vpn not working and want to access region-restricted content, you may want to consider SafeShell VPN as your reliable streaming companion. This powerful VPN service offers several impressive benefits that make it stand out from the competition:
- High-performance servers specifically optimized for Netflix streaming, ensuring buffer-free playback even in HD quality
- Multi-device compatibility allowing simultaneous connections on up to five devices across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and smart TV platforms
- Innovative App Mode feature that uniquely enables access to multiple regional Netflix libraries simultaneously
- Exceptional connection speeds with zero bandwidth restrictions, eliminating the frustration of buffering that often plagues other VPN services
- Advanced security through the proprietary "ShellGuard" protocol, protecting your streaming activities from detection
- Risk-free exploration with a flexible free trial plan that lets you test all premium features before committing
SafeShell VPN resolves the common issues that cause other Netflix VPN not working situations, providing a seamless streaming experience without the technical headaches.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN
Accessing global Netflix content has never been easier with SafeShell Netflix VPN . To begin your journey into unrestricted streaming, first visit the SafeShell VPN website and select a subscription plan that aligns with your viewing habits and budget. After completing your purchase, download the appropriate application for your device - whether you're using Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android, SafeShell has you covered with dedicated apps designed for optimal performance.
Once the installation is complete, launch the SafeShell VPN application and log into your account. For the best Netflix streaming experience, select the APP mode which is specifically optimized for media consumption. Next, browse through SafeShell's extensive server network and connect to a location in your desired region - whether you're looking to access American shows, British documentaries, or Canadian content, simply select the appropriate server and click "Connect" to establish your secure connection.
With your SafeShell Netflix VPN connection now active, open the Netflix application or navigate to the Netflix website in your browser. Sign in with your existing Netflix credentials and you'll immediately notice that the content library has transformed to display the shows and movies available in your selected region. SafeShell's reliable connections ensure you can enjoy your favorite international content in high definition without buffering or interruptions, making it the perfect companion for Netflix enthusiasts seeking to explore global entertainment options.