ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish

In this comparison blog, we have two unique VPN services: ExpressVPN and IPVanish. ExpressVPN is a premium level of service offering advanced security and privacy features. IPVanish, on the other hand, is known for cheaper price plans starting from $12.99 for a single month to $2.70/m for 1 Year plan. It also offers some quality features, ensuring security and a seamless online streaming experience.  ExpressVPN is comparatively an expensive service, costing about $8.32/m for 1 Year plan. Both VPNs offer top services; however, ExpressVPN provides a slight edge over speed due to its vast network of servers, about 6,400+ in 111 countries. The number of servers and the locations in which they are situated directly impact the service speed, and ExpressVPN takes the lead on this.

This blog goes into full details of each service and dissects each feature to understand which service is best. We have made sure the comparison does not show any bias towards any service and that each service is represented as it should be, based on facts and test data. Read on to learn about each VPN service in detail.

Key Findings

• ExpressVPN has advanced security and privacy features to ensure users’ data is safe from any external threats. IPVanish, on the other hand, did not perform well on the security front and showed reluctance to handle data securely. 
• As per testing, both ExpressVPN and IPVanish did quite well in unblocking the content. However, ExpressVPN performed far better in streaming compared to its counterpart, IPVanish. 
• Both VPN Services provide a seven-day free trial on mobile and a 30-day money-back guarantee option for their deals.

Key Facts About ExpressVPN and IPVanish:

Features	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
Jurisprudence	British Virgin Islands	United States
Servers	3,000+	2,400+
Countries	105	55
No-logs policy	Yes	Yes
Torrenting	Available on all servers	Available on all servers
VPN Protocols	Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec
Platform Compatibility	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS	Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Desktop OSes	Windows, MacOS, Linux	Windows, MacOS, Linux
Browser Extensions	Chrome, Firefox, Edge	–
Device support	8	Unlimited
Accept Cryptocurrencies	Yes	No
System Support	FAQs, email, live chat 24/7, Knowledge base	FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat, knowledge base

Pros and Cons of ExpressVPN and IPVanish:

Each service provides access to unique features that help improve users’ experience. However, specific gaps in the service infrastructure or design can also cause problems, especially in terms of affecting user perception of the service. Some of the good and bad signals of both ExpressVPN and IPVanish have been mentioned as follows:

As also mentioned in the detailed analysis, both services have a lot in common. They are good with security and privacy features and share their independent encryption protocols, ensuring users’ data security. In a few aspects, ExpressVPN takes a clear lead, leaving IPVanish to strive extra hard for the same level of achievement.

Streaming

Streaming Platforms	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
Netflix	Yes	Yes
Amazon Prime Video	Yes	No
Hulu	Yes	No
Disney+	Yes	Yes
BBC iPlayer	Yes	Yes

Streaming is an important feature and drives users towards VPN services. There is a clear winner in streaming: ExpressVPN. The reason why ExpressVPN leads in streaming is because it built a high-speed system to its credit. There is no other VPN that is as fast as ExpressVPN. Besides, ExpressVPN’s massive server network is also the main reason behind such high speed. It has over 3,000 servers currently operating across 105 countries compared to IPVanish, which has a little over 2,400 servers in just 55 countries. As of now, ExpressVPN supports all mainstream platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. In contrast, IPVansih only supports a few platforms, such as Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.

Subscription Plans

	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
30 Days Plan	$12.95 per month	$12.99 per month
6 Months Plan	$9.99 per month	–
1 Year Plan	$6.67 per month	$2.79 per month
2 Years Plan	–	$2.19 per month

The subscription plan for the two services shows ExpressVPN as relatively more expensive. However, compared to the features it provides, the price makes complete sense. IPVanish, on the other hand, provides budget-friendly plans; however, it offers comparatively fewer features than ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN offers a variety of subscription plans to cater to different user needs and budgets. Its monthly plan starts at about $12.95, which is comparable to IPVanish’s $12.99 per month. For those looking for a shorter commitment, ExpressVPN offers a 6-month plan for $9.99 per month. Additionally, it provides a one-year plan for about $6.67 per month.

IPVansih does not include a 6-month plan; however, it does offer a 1-year and 2-year plan exclusively for $2.79 per month and $2.19 per month, respectively.

There is a vast difference between the price ranges of the two services. IPVanish is massively cheaper compared to ExpressVPN. However, from a feature-to-price rate perspective, ExpressVPN is feasible. It does not make the service more affordable, but it justifies the logic behind why it costs so much. ExpressVPN is the best streaming service and outstrips the price due to the features it offers.

ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish: Encryption and Security

	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
Hash	SHA-512	SHA-512
Encryption	AES-256 and ChaCha20	AES-256 and ChaCha209
VPN Protocols	OpenVPN, IKEv2, Lightway	IPSec, OpenVPN, L2TP, IKEv2, WireGuard
Member of 5-Eyes Alliance	No	Yes
No-logs Policy	Yes	Yes
Kill Switch	Yes	Yes
Traffic Obfuscation	Yes	Yes
DNS Leak Test	Yes	No
Ad blocker	Yes	Yes

Encryption and security are the two most important features of any VPN. With encryption, the purpose of using a VPN is preserved. Therefore, a VPN service is required to have ultra-secure encryption and security systems. They were first, starting with Hash. It is a unique encryption feature that converts the key characters into a completely random value. The value generated is known as the hash value or hash code. In this case, ExpressVPN and IPVanish both use the same hashing protocol called SHA-512.

Encryption protocols also play an essential role in providing security against unknown forces online. They use advanced technology features to scramble your data so that no person with malicious intent can intercept it. Encryption plays two critical roles: first, it protects your data, and second, it conceals your online identity into an anonymous user. A VPN can use a simple encryption protocol or more than one at once. It is entirely up to the system service. In this particular case, both ExpressVPN and IPVanish use two protocols for encryption purposes: AES-256 and ChaCha20.

VPN Protocol is the backbone of the service. It plays a central function in determining the quality of encryption and is also responsible for data transmission and security. The protocol also adds value to the service by determining speed, security, and compatibility with the system. Each VPN is free to choose how many protocols it wants to integrate into the system. Likewise, ExpressVPN and IPVanish have also incorporated more than one protocol into their system. ExpressVPN has OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Lightway protocols in their system. These are some of the most advanced protocols that ensure the system’s quality encryption, security, and speed. The IPVanish, on the other hand, has a unique mix of protocols, such as IPSec, OpenVPN, L2TP, IKEv2, and WireGuard. These are also essential protocols that bring immense value to the system, such as increasing speed, encryption, security, and compatibility.

What is it like to be a member of 5-Eyes Alliances? Well, in simple terms, it ensures security and protection. However, that security will only be available under the guise of state and governments. 5-Eyes is an intelligence alliance between the governments of five different countries, such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. VPNs serve various purposes. They protect their users not only from hackers but also from the government’s fascist surveillance over its citizens. This means that VPNs based in these five countries will be liable to their governments in terms of data security because the alliance is a formal legislation passed separately in each of the five countries. IPVanish is US-based, and ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, hence making it clear which VPN is at the mercy of its government. The law of the land (i.e., 5-Eyes Alliance) makes it obligatory for IPVanish to share users’ information with the state’s security agency whenever they ask for it. Luckily, that is not the case with ExpressVPN. It is a sovereign service with complete control over users’ data.

Both ExpressVPN and IPVanish share the same feature, which is called a no-logs policy. This unique feature helps with security. The VPN, with a no-logs policy, cannot retain users’ personal information, including IP address, browsing history, and DNS queries. This applies to both ExpressVPN and IPVanish.

Furthermore, both VPNs share important security-related features, such as a kill switch, traffic obfuscation, DNS Leak Test, and an Adblocker. The Kill switch is an emergency security feature that activates upon sudden disconnection from your network. It protects your data by switching off your private browsing history so no malicious force can access it. Traffic obfuscation is an exciting feature as it helps reroute your regular internet traffic to make it look like you are not even using the Internet. The third feature, called DNS Leak, is also essential. The DNS Leak is a severe threat; therefore, VPN services need to check for any leak in their system continuously. It helps prevent security problems. Finally, the ad blocker. It helps protect your IP address and current location. Moreover, it prevents users from accessing unnecessary ads online and the ones specifically designed for malicious tracking.

A Few Important Features of ExpressVPN and IPVanish:

Logging

Both ExpressVPN and IPVanish implement different logging techniques in their systems. ExpressVPN uses RAM-only in its 3,000+ servers. This is an advanced hardware system that removes all users’ data when servers undergo automatic rebooting. RAM servers are the most secure type of hardware, hence making ExpressVPN a more secure service. Logging is a security feature. As per the privacy policies of both services, they do not keep their users’ log information. The log information usually includes users browsing history, connection, and data consumption.

Split Tunneling

This is an important feature that lets users choose which application to keep for VPN and which one is directed toward a standard internet connection. It also increases the speed of your system because you are not putting an entire load on the VPN; some of it is still directed toward open servers. Luckily, both ExpressVPN and IPVanish provide access to split tunneling features in their service.

As mentioned, this feature is essential from any VPN service perspective. However, there are limitations to how one can access this feature. ExpressVPN lets only Windows and Android users access split tunneling on its service. If you are using ExpressVPN from any other device, you will not be able to enjoy this feature. Moreover, IPVanish is also limited in offering this service; for example, it only lets Android and FireOS users access split tunneling.

SOCKS5 Proxy

This feature is only available in IPVanish. Not only is it available in IPVanish, but it is available for free to access. You do not have to pay any extra fee to access it. This feature is helpful for torrenting, which lets you hide your IP address and maintain a high download speed on your network. The main disadvantage of this feature is that it does not encrypt your IP address. Hence, your local ISP can easily track you.

Torrenting

Torrenting is an essential feature for sharing content/files with other users online. Luckily, both ExpressVPN and IPVansih provide access to this feature in their services. It is important to note that IPVansih does not have any specialized servers for torrenting. It provides access to this feature from its standard regular servers. Surprisingly, despite the use of standard servers, the performance remains highly efficient. Conversely, ExpressVPN offers exceptional support for torrenting on each of its 3,000+ servers. Hence, ExpressVPN is faster in torrenting than IPVanish.

ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish: Interface

	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
Operating System Support	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS	Windows, Mac, Android and iOS
Devices Support	Android TV, Fire, Routers	Android TV, Apple TV, Fire devices, Routers
Browser Extensions	Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave	–
Device Connections	8	Unlimited number of devices
User Friendliness	Easy to use VPN	Easy to use VPN

Each VPN service offers a unique setting for application support. In terms of the operating system, ExpressVPN lets you access its service on only Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The IPVansih, on the other hand, offers limited access to OS such as Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Both services have apps for all these operating systems.

Furthermore, extensions are also a unique phenomenon. ExpressVPN provides its extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave. Conversely, there is no extension available in IPVanish. Additionally, ExpressVPN allows access to only eight devices, whereas IPVanish offers access to an unlimited number of devices.

Apps

ExpressVPN Desktop App

ExpressVPN has a fantastic app design. Its center button is enormous, while Windows and Mac applications take a tiny portion of the matrix. The app provides a fast filter process for selecting the server.

IPVanish Desktop App

The IPVanish provides a sophisticated design of this app for both Windows and macOS operating systems. All major features are provided on one big screen, making it easier for users to navigate the system and make sound decisions. It provides a map on its main page, a settings tab, and other important information regarding your connection online.

ExpressVPN Mobile App

The design of the Windows app and ExpressVPN’s mobile app are similar. The Android app version provides extra features like split tunneling and a Kill switch, which are missing from the iOS application.

IPVanish Mobile App

The app’s design has changed significantly compared to its desktop version. It has a limited screen space and must balance simplicity and proper functioning. Most importantly, IPVansih provides far superior features and design parameters in its Android app compared to its counterpart iOS application.

ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish: VPN Speed Comparison

We compared the download and upload speed of each VPN using baseline speed as a standard frame of reference. There is always going to be a drop in the speed of the connection, especially after you connect your system with a VPN. Once the connection is established, it moves through an encrypted tunnel, which impacts the overall speed of the system.

ExpressVPN has included an advanced protocol called Lightway to increase its speed. On the other hand, IPVanish is also trying to improve its speed score and has added WireGuard to its protocol list. These protocols have drastically increased the speed of both VPNs. Here is our speed test of both VPNs from five different server locations:

VPN Download Speed:

Download Retention	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
The United States	92%	88%
The United Kingdom	93%	95%
Canada	90%	90%
Germany	90%	91%
France	89%	90%

VPN Upload Speed:

Upload Retention	ExpressVPN	IPVanish
The United States	93%	85%
The United Kingdom	93%	89%
Canada	92%	31%
Germany	89%	77%
France	94%	83%

As you can see, the competition between ExpressVPN and IPVanish remains relatively close. Both performed brilliantly in terms of maintaining high speed. Of course, there is a clear winner here—ExpressVPN. However, if you look at the speed, it is clear that both have performed pretty well.

Final Remarks

There is a clear winner between the two services: ExpressVPN. Despite many similarities between the two, we saw ExpressVPN taking the lead on significant fronts like security, privacy, and encryption protocols. However, IPVanish is located in the United States, making it liable to the Five Eye Nation alliance. It is a national-level accord where companies are obliged to share users’ information with national security agencies. Overall, the performance and commitment to better service awards go to ExpressVPN.

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