IPVanish vs Surfshark VPN: Complete Comparison Guide
Choosing between IPVanish vs Surfshark VPN can be challenging when both providers offer compelling features at competitive prices. This comprehensive comparison analyzes every aspect of these popular VPN services, from pricing and security protocols to streaming capabilities and customer support. With the global VPN market reaching $44.6 billion in 2025 and over 1.5 billion users worldwide, selecting the right VPN has never been more critical for protecting your digital privacy.
In this detailed guide, we'll examine how Surfshark vs IPVanish stack up across key performance metrics, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget. Whether you prioritize unlimited device connections, lightning-fast speeds, or robust security features, our analysis covers all the essential factors that matter most to VPN users in .
Table of Contents
- 1. Quick Comparison Overview
- 2. Pricing and Value Analysis
- 3. Security and Privacy Features
- 4. Performance and Speed Tests
- 5. Server Network and Locations
- 6. Streaming and Unblocking Capabilities
- 7. Device Compatibility and Connections
- 8. Customer Support and Reliability
- 9. Pros and Cons Summary
- 10. Final Verdict and Recommendations
- 11. Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Comparison Overview
| Feature | IPVanish | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.19/month | $2.49/month |
| Server Count | 2,400+ | 3,200+ |
| Countries | 108 | 100+ |
| Device Connections | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Netflix Support | Limited | Excellent |
| Kill Switch | ✓ | ✓ |
| No-Logs Policy | Audited | Yes |
Key Market Statistics
VPN Market Position Comparison
Pricing and Value Analysis
When comparing IPVanish vs Surfshark VPN pricing, both services offer competitive rates with significant discounts for longer-term commitments. However, their pricing strategies and included features differ considerably.
IPVanish Pricing
- • Unlimited device connections
- • 2,400+ servers in 108 countries
- • No-logs policy (audited)
- • 24/7 customer support
- • Everything in Essential
- • Enhanced security features
- • Priority support
Surfshark Pricing
- • Unlimited device connections
- • 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
- • CleanWeb ad blocker
- • MultiHop VPN
- • Everything in Starter
- • Antivirus protection
- • Identity protection
Pricing Comparison Across Plans
Important: Both services offer 30-day money-back guarantees. Prices shown are promotional rates that may increase upon renewal.
Security and Privacy Features
Security forms the foundation of any reliable VPN service. Both IPVanish vs Surfshark VPN implement robust security measures, but they differ in their approaches to encryption, protocols, and additional privacy features.
IPVanish Security
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AES-256 Encryption: Military-grade encryption standard
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Protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, WireGuard
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No-Logs Policy: Independently audited by Leviathan Security
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Kill Switch: Automatic connection protection
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DNS Leak Protection: Prevents DNS queries from leaking
Surfshark Security
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AES-256 & ChaCha20: Dual encryption standards
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Protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec
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No-Logs Policy: RAM-only servers for enhanced privacy
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Kill Switch: Always-on internet protection
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MultiHop: Double VPN connection feature
Security Features Comparison
Security Winner Analysis
While both VPNs offer excellent security, Surfshark edges ahead with its MultiHop feature, RAM-only servers, and CleanWeb ad-blocking capabilities. IPVanish counters with its independently audited no-logs policy and consistent security track record. For most users, both provide more than adequate protection for online activities.
Performance and Speed Tests
Speed performance is crucial for VPN users, especially for streaming, gaming, and large file transfers. Our analysis of Surfshark vs IPVanish reveals interesting differences in their network infrastructure and performance optimization.
Speed Test Results
IPVanish Performance
IPVanish excels in raw speed performance, particularly for users with high-bandwidth connections requiring maximum throughput.
Surfshark Performance
Surfshark provides consistent, reliable speeds across its network with excellent optimization for streaming and everyday browsing.
Performance Note: Actual speeds vary based on your location, internet provider, server distance, and network conditions. Both VPNs show minimal speed loss (4-16%) compared to baseline connections.
Server Network and Locations
A comprehensive server network ensures better performance, reliability, and access to geo-restricted content. Both IPVanish and Surfshark VPN have invested heavily in expanding their global server infrastructure.
Server Network Comparison
IPVanish Network
Strong Presence In:
Surfshark Network
Strong Presence In:
Network Analysis
Broader country coverage with 108 locations, ideal for users needing access to specific regions.
Higher server count with RAM-only infrastructure providing enhanced security and performance.
Tie - Both offer excellent coverage for different user needs and geographical requirements.
Streaming and Unblocking Capabilities
For many users, streaming capability is a deciding factor when choosing between IPVanish vs Surfshark VPN. Both services approach content unblocking differently, with varying levels of success across popular streaming platforms.
Streaming Platform Support
IPVanish Streaming
IPVanish works well for torrenting and some streaming services but struggles with major platforms like Netflix due to active blocking.
Surfshark Streaming
Surfshark excels at unblocking streaming services with dedicated streaming servers and consistent updates to bypass restrictions.
Streaming Winner: Surfshark - With superior Netflix access, CleanWeb ad-blocking, and unlimited device connections, Surfshark is the clear choice for streaming enthusiasts who want to watch content across multiple devices simultaneously.
Device Compatibility and Connections
Both Surfshark vs IPVanish offer unlimited simultaneous connections, but they differ in their app quality, platform support, and device-specific features.
IPVanish Compatibility
Special Features: Router configuration, Kodi integration, dedicated Fire TV app
Surfshark Compatibility
Special Features: Browser extensions, Smart DNS, CleanWeb integration across devices
Connection Limits Comparison
App Quality Assessment
IPVanish Apps
- • Clean, intuitive interface design
- • Quick connect feature
- • Advanced settings for power users
- • Reliable connection stability
Surfshark Apps
- • Modern, user-friendly design
- • Integrated CleanWeb controls
- • MultiHop server selection
- • Whitelister split tunneling
Customer Support and Reliability
Quality customer support can make or break your VPN experience. Both IPVanish and Surfshark VPN offer multiple support channels, but their response times and helpfulness vary significantly.
IPVanish Support
Response times average 2-4 minutes for live chat, with knowledgeable technicians who can handle complex configuration issues.
Surfshark Support
Excellent live chat support with average response under 1 minute. Agents are well-trained in troubleshooting streaming and connectivity issues.
Customer Satisfaction Ratings
IPVanish Reliability
- • 99.9% uptime guarantee
- • Consistent server performance
- • Regular app updates and improvements
- • Transparent about service issues
- • 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark Reliability
- • 99.9% server uptime
- • Rapid response to streaming blocks
- • Frequent feature additions
- • Proactive security updates
- • 30-day money-back guarantee
Pros and Cons Summary
IPVanish
Pros
- • Superior speed performance (88% retention)
- • Extensive server network (108 countries)
- • Independently audited no-logs policy
- • Unlimited simultaneous connections
- • Excellent for torrenting and P2P
- • Strong customer support with phone option
- • Clean, user-friendly apps
- • Competitive pricing starting at $2.19/month
Cons
- • Limited Netflix unblocking capability
- • No ad-blocking features
- • Fewer advanced security features
- • No MultiHop or double VPN
- • Based in the US (Five Eyes country)
- • Past logging controversy (now resolved)
Surfshark
Pros
- • Excellent streaming capabilities (Netflix, Hulu)
- • CleanWeb ad-blocking feature
- • MultiHop double VPN protection
- • Unlimited simultaneous connections
- • RAM-only servers for enhanced security
- • Great value pricing ($2.49/month)
- • Strong app ecosystem with extensions
- • 24/7 responsive customer support
Cons
- • Slightly slower speeds than IPVanish
- • Fewer server countries (100+ vs 108)
- • No phone support available
- • Based in Netherlands (EU jurisdiction)
- • Some servers can be overcrowded
- • Occasional connection drops reported
Quick Decision Guide
Choose IPVanish If:
- • Speed is your top priority
- • You need extensive country coverage
- • Torrenting is important to you
- • You prefer phone support options
Choose Surfshark If:
- • Streaming is your main use case
- • You want built-in ad blocking
- • Advanced security features matter
- • You need the best overall value
Final Verdict and Recommendations
Overall Winner: Surfshark
While both VPNs offer excellent value and unlimited connections, Surfshark edges ahead due to its superior streaming capabilities, additional security features, and better overall user experience.
Why Surfshark Wins
- Streaming Excellence: Consistently unblocks Netflix, Hulu, and other major platforms
- Value-Added Features: CleanWeb ad blocker, MultiHop, and Whitelister included
- Security Innovation: RAM-only servers and advanced privacy tools
- User Experience: Modern apps with intuitive design across all platforms
- Competitive Pricing: Great features at $2.49/month with extra months free
When to Choose IPVanish
- Speed Priority: Need maximum connection speeds for bandwidth-intensive tasks
- Geographic Coverage: Require access to specific countries in IPVanish's network
- Torrenting Focus: Primary use case is P2P file sharing and torrenting
- Support Preference: Value having phone support as a contact option
- Simplicity: Prefer straightforward VPN functionality without extra features
Ready to Get Started?
Both VPNs offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can try them risk-free.
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Related: PIA Review
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster: IPVanish or Surfshark?
IPVanish typically offers faster speeds, retaining about 88% of your original connection speed compared to Surfshark's 84%. However, both provide excellent performance for most online activities, and the difference is minimal for everyday use.
Can I use both VPNs for Netflix streaming?
Surfshark is significantly better for Netflix streaming, consistently unblocking multiple Netflix libraries worldwide. IPVanish has limited Netflix capability and may not work reliably with the streaming service.
Do both VPNs offer unlimited device connections?
Yes, both IPVanish and Surfshark allow unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can protect all your devices with a single subscription.
Which VPN has better customer support?
Both offer 24/7 live chat support, but IPVanish also provides phone support during business hours. Surfshark's chat support tends to be faster (under 1 minute response) while IPVanish averages 2-4 minutes.
Are there any free trials available?
Neither service offers traditional free trials, but both provide 30-day money-back guarantees. Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial on mobile apps through app stores.
Which VPN is better for torrenting?
IPVanish has a slight edge for torrenting due to its faster speeds and strong P2P support. However, Surfshark also supports torrenting on all servers and includes additional security features like MultiHop.
Can I get a refund if I'm not satisfied?
Yes, both VPNs offer 30-day money-back guarantees with no questions asked. This gives you plenty of time to test the service and determine if it meets your needs.
Which VPN offers better value for money?
While IPVanish is slightly cheaper at $2.19/month, Surfshark offers better overall value at $2.49/month due to its additional features like CleanWeb, MultiHop, and superior streaming capabilities.
Make Your Choice Today
Both IPVanish and Surfshark are excellent VPN services. Choose based on your specific needs and take advantage of their money-back guarantees to test them risk-free.