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IPVanish vs NordVPN: which service to choose?


IPVanish and NordVPN remain two of the most popular VPNs in an increasingly competitive market, both vying for the title of best VPN. NordVPN is widely recognized for its well-rounded performance, while IPVanish stands out with its budget-friendly deals. But which one is the better choice for you?

In this updated comparison, I'll break down their security, privacy, speed, pricing, and other key features that matter most to VPN users. I'll also name a winner in each category – some of the results may surprise you. Let’s dive into what makes these VPNs top contenders today.

IPVanish vs NordVPN

NordVPN outperforms IPVanish in most categories, including speed, features, protection, streaming, torrenting, server locations, ease of use, and customer support. While IPVanish offers competitive pricing and unlimited connections, NordVPN provides a more extensive server network and better access to streaming services.

NordVPNIPVanish
⭐ Rating:
4.9
4.5
🥇 Overall rank:#1 out of #41#3 out of #41
🖥️ Servers:7,400 + servers in 118 countries2,400 + servers in 109 countries
📖 No logs policy:No logsNo logs
💵 Price:From $3.09/monthFrom $2.19/month
🔥 Coupons:NordVPN coupon 77% OFFIPVanish coupon 83% OFF
🔒 VPN protocols:OpenVPN, WireGuard (NordLynx), NordWhisperWireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
🍿 Streaming services:Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and moreNetflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Disney+, and more
🖥️ Platforms:Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOSWindows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Linux
📥 Simultaneous connections:10Unlimited
💁🏻 Support:Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chatKnowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat
inga_valiaugaite_author Nijole Simaitiene Copywriter Cybernews sarunas karbauskas vincentas
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We spare no effort to test the products & their features. All information is gathered by our in-house research team & fact-checked by our team of experts. Discover the ins and outs of our testing procedures.

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Speed comparison: IPVanish vs NordVPN

In speed testing comparison, I, with the help of the research team, evaluated IPVanish and NordVPN using their fastest protocols – IPVanish's WireGuard and NordVPN's NordLynx – across the US, the UK, France, Canada, and Sweden to see which service is faster on average.

Data period: 04.10 - 04.24
Download retention
US (NY) US (NY)
93% (467Mbit/s) 91% (459Mbit/s)
United Kingdom United Kingdom
94% (473Mbit/s) 90% (451Mbit/s)
France France
95% (478Mbit/s) 92% (461Mbit/s)
Canada Canada
94% (471Mbit/s) 93% (468Mbit/s)
Sweden Sweden
94% (473Mbit/s) 94% (474Mbit/s)
Upload retention
US (NY) US (NY)
92% (462Mbit/s) 36% (181Mbit/s)
United Kingdom United Kingdom
92% (461Mbit/s) 74% (370Mbit/s)
France France
92% (462Mbit/s) 82% (410Mbit/s)
Canada Canada
93% (466Mbit/s) 52% (262Mbit/s)
Sweden Sweden
93% (466Mbit/s) 76% (382Mbit/s)
Download/Upload baseline speed - 500 Mbit/s

No wonder NordVPN demonstrated superior performance since it’s considered the best VPN for 2025. With download speeds above 93% of the baseline, NordVPN facilitates smooth HD streaming and lag-free gaming. Its upload speeds also impressed, consistently staying above 92%, essential for high-quality gaming and video calls.

IPVanish achieved commendable download speeds, mostly above 88%, allowing for uninterrupted streaming and responsive gaming. However, IPVanish's lower upload speeds, especially notable in Canada, could impact live content uploads and interactive gaming sessions.

Overall, while IPVanish and NordVPN provide robust speeds for daily activities, NordVPN's consistent upload rates ensure smoother online interactions and more reliable performance in multiplayer online gaming and live streaming environments.

To sum up, this round is pretty even, but NordVPN wins due to better overall speed performance.

WRAPPING UP
Both IPVanish and NordVPN deliver strong speeds, but NordVPN takes the lead with consistently higher upload and download performance, making it the better choice for seamless streaming, gaming, and video calls.

Features overview

Both IPVanish and NordVPN have all the main features that a premium VPN should have. However, NordVPN has something extra that IPVanish doesn't. Check out the feature overview and see for yourself.

Split tunneling

Split tunneling is a useful feature that allows you to choose which apps use the VPN tunnel and which connect directly to the internet. This way, you can use your real IP address for online banking while streaming Netflix Japan simultaneously.

IPVanish is better than NordVPN in this case because it offers more compatibility options. It allows split tunneling on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and even Apple Vision Pro, while NordVPN has it on Windows, Android, and Android TV apps only.

Stealth VPN

This feature helps to hide VPN usage from apps or services. It's also known as a great tool against China's Deep Packet Inspection (DPI).

NordVPN calls this feature Obfuscated servers, and you can find them under the Specialty Servers section. Turning it on will make your traffic look like regular HTTPS traffic. In the case of IPVanish, you turn on this traffic obfuscation by ticking the Scramble OpenVPN traffic box under OpenVPN options, thus enabling the XOR cipher that does all the rest.

However, IPVanish's Stealth VPN seems to have trouble unblocking the internet in China, so NordVPN is superior in this instance.

turning-on-the-IPVanish-Scramble-feature-for-Android-devices
Turning on the IPVanish Scramble feature for Android devices

Free SOCKS5 proxy

The SOCKS5 proxy is particularly favored for torrenting. Essentially, setting it up on your torrent client (or any other app that supports proxies) will hide your IP without encrypting the traffic. This way, you get anonymity plus full-speed downloads.

You can configure the SOCKS5 proxy on all popular P2P clients. However, be aware that your ISP could still see what you're doing if they wanted.

Exclusive features

PVanish stands out as one of the few premium VPNs offering encrypted cloud storage through two services: SugarSync and LiveDrive.

SugarSync provides up to 500GB of secure cloud storage, allowing you to easily upload and share files. Meanwhile, LiveDrive offers more extensive features, including up to 1TB of storage and continuous backup with remote access to your files.

Both services come with convenient options like email file sharing, making them ideal for users needing secure and accessible storage solutions.

The list of NordVPN-only features starts with SmartDNS. When turned on, it unblocks Netflix and other content platforms without traffic encryption. Most importantly, SmartDNS works as a so-called SmartPlay feature, which will let you unblock content on most smart TVs, game consoles, and other media devices.

Next, NordVPN offers a range of security-oriented features. Threat Protection blocks intrusive ads, trackers, and malware, providing an extra layer of protection while you browse the internet. For even more comprehensive protection, Threat Protection Pro goes a step further by scanning downloaded files for malware, blocking malicious websites, and preventing any dangerous content from reaching your device. Threat Protection Pro works even without being connected to the VPN, ensuring your device is protected at all times, whether you're connected to NordVPN or not.

Additionally, both providers offer a Double VPN (also known as multi-hop or double-hop) feature that gives you extra protection by routing your connection through two VPN servers instead of one, enhancing your privacy and security. However, NordVPN’s Double VPN is more focused on high-security use cases.

Also, you can use Tor network with both IPVanish and NordVPN Onion Over VPN feature for an extra layer of anonymity and unmatched protection, keeping in mind that it is not going to be easy on your upload and download speeds.

WRAPPING UP
While IPVanish shines with encrypted cloud storage options, NordVPN wins overall with superior security features like Threat Protection, Double VPN, and SmartDNS for streaming. For those prioritizing privacy and protection, NordVPN is the better choice.

IPVanish vs NordVPN: which offers better security?

IPVanish offers good security and privacy, but the NordVPN offering is better. Both use advanced encryption and modern tunneling protocols for a strong foundation, but NordVPN offers both application-level kill switches on macOS and a system-level implementation on Windows and Android, giving users more flexibility. However, it's worth noting that NordVPN tends to be slower on macOS compared to other platforms.

IPVanish is registered in the United States. This country is the founding member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance and creates a whole host of privacy issues for digital businesses. In the meantime, NordVPN is situated in Panama, which has no data retention laws and no connection with the aforementioned surveillance alliance. Meanwhile, the US government can make any company collect data as per the Electronic Communications Privacy Act.

NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, which is audited frequently, with the most recent audit complete in February 2025. As for IPVanish, the provider has a no-logs policy, but it hasn't been audited since 2022. Besides, unlike NordVPN, the provider doesn't offer the opportunity to pay using anonymous payment methods (such as crypto).

As you can see, NordVPN already looks better. But with features like Threat Protection Pro and Onion Over VPN, the winner becomes obvious.

WRAPPING UP
NordVPN outshines IPVanish with more flexible kill switch options, a better privacy jurisdiction, frequent audits, and advanced features like Threat Protection Pro and Onion Over VPN, making it the clear winner for security and privacy.

Netflix and other streaming platforms

Both IPVanish and NordVPN unblock Netflix US and YouTube TV. NordVPN, however, offers additional capabilities with its SmartPlay feature, designed to bypass streaming media blocks seamlessly, enhancing access to a variety of content, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more. NordVPN also provides specialized servers like obfuscated and Onion over VPN, tailored for specific needs such as streaming or torrenting.

In contrast, IPVanish does not have specialized streaming servers, utilizing the same servers for all activities. It can be limiting, as IPVanish struggles to bypass restrictions on major streaming sites like Hulu and Amazon Prime Video, frustrating users looking to access a broader range of content.

All in all, NordVPN's SmartDNS is a major advantage. Since using it as a Smart DNS feature means your traffic isn't encrypted or rerouted through a VPN server, the speeds will be significantly better. Additionally, you'll be able to stream on smart TVs, game consoles, and other devices without the VPN app.

WRAPPING UP
NordVPN outperforms IPVanish with its SmartPlay feature, specialized servers, and better ability to bypass streaming restrictions. IPVanish lacks dedicated streaming servers and struggles with platforms like Hulu, making NordVPN the better choice for accessing a variety of content.

Torrenting and P2P

IPVanish and NordVPN are great options for torrenting. Both have a free SOCKS5 proxy, which means you can download without slowing down your connection with encryption.

The main difference is that IPVanish allows P2P on all servers, and NordVPN has a specialized list. However, the provider has almost three times more servers in total, so overpopulation shouldn't be an issue.

Finally, NordVPN has servers in 118 countries compared to IPVanish's 100, so there's a slightly bigger chance that you find one nearby with the latter VPN.

WRAPPING UP – IT'S A DRAW
It's a draw between IPVanish and NordVPN for torrenting. Both offer solid P2P support, with NordVPN's larger server network and IPVanish's all-server P2P access. Either VPN works well, depending on your preference for coverage or server variety.

Plans and pricing

IPVanish's and NordVPN's pricing plans differ substantially in length and discounts offered. Let's break it down and see which one wins this round.

PlanIPVanishNordVPN
1-monthFrom $12.99From $12.99
1-yearFrom $3.33/monthFrom $4.99/month
2-yearFrom $2.19/monthFrom $3.09/month
Check IPVanish pricingCheck NordVPN pricing

IPVanish and NordVPN prices are the same in the monthly category. However, when looking at longer-term plans, IPVanish offers better value. Its one-year plan starts at $3.33/month, compared to NordVPN's $4.99/month. The price gap remains in the two-year plans, where IPVanish costs $2.19/month, while NordVPN’s deal is $3.09/month.

Both services include a 30-day money-back guarantee, and each offers a 7-day free trial.

In my NordVPN vs IPVanish price comparison, I declare IPVanish the winner, as its first-term discounts make it the more affordable option.

If either VPN still seems too pricey, you might find an extra discount. Check out IPVanish coupons and NordVPN coupons – there could be a special deal waiting for you.

WRAPPING UP
IPVanish wins this round with better long-term value. While both VPNs have similar monthly prices, IPVanish offers lower rates for one-year and two-year plans, making it the more affordable option overall.

Servers

NordVPN offers a significantly broader range of server locations, covering 118 countries, while IPVanish follows along with 109 countries. Moreover, NordVPN has a much larger server network, boasting over 7400 servers compared to IPVanish's 2400+.

NordVPNIPVanish
Servers74002400
Countries (total)118109
Americas79
Europe3632
Asia Pacific and Middle East1411
Africa33

Looking at regional distribution, both VPNs provide strong global coverage. IPVanish focuses more on the Americas, offering servers in 9 countries compared to NordVPN’s 7. Meanwhile, NordVPN provides more options in Europe (36 countries vs 32) and the Asia-Pacific region and Middle East (14 vs 11).

In the end, I give this one to NordVPN due to the sheer quantity and quality of its servers. While all IPVanish servers are physical and owned by the company, NordVPN avoids virtual servers and operates a RAM-only infrastructure, enhancing security and privacy.

WRAPPING UP
NordVPN outperforms IPVanish with over 7400 servers in 109 countries, compared to IPVanish’s 2400+ servers in 109+ countries. While both have similar server counts in Africa, NordVPN has a stronger presence in the Americas and Asia Pacific/Middle East, giving it an advantage in global coverage.

Apps, interface, and ease of use

NordVPNIPVanish
Supported OSWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSWindows, macOS, Android, iOS
Other software and devicesAndroid TV, Fire devicesAndroid TV, Fire devices, Apple TV
Browser extensionsChrome, FirefoxChrome, Firefox, and Edge
Simultaneous connections10Unlimited

NordVPN excels in compatibility compared to IPVanish, offering dedicated apps for Linux. It makes NordVPN more versatile, especially if you share it with family or friends.

You can also manually configure both VPNs on routers, firewalls, and NAS devices. I found NordVPN's setup particularly user-friendly. NordVPN's Smart DNS feature is a standout, allowing easy access to geo-restricted content on smart TVs and gaming consoles, which is ideal for seamless streaming without lags.

WRAPPING UP
NordVPN stands out with a dedicated Linux app and a user-friendly setup. Its Smart DNS feature makes streaming on smart TVs and consoles seamless. While IPVanish allows unlimited connections, NordVPN’s 10-device limit is still ample for most users.

Desktop apps

NordVPN and IPVanish feature intuitive Windows and Mac apps with a clean layout. Both have a main window that can be maximized to display a server map and list, making it easy to switch servers. I appreciated the left sidebar in both apps, where the settings are neatly organized and ensure consistency across platforms. This design allows easy access to advanced settings on Mac, enhancing usability without complicated navigation.

NordVPN offers two macOS apps, enhancing users' flexibility. The App Store version supports multiple protocols, including NordLynx, while the direct download version offers OpenVPN with additional features. I found the App Store version more user-friendly, especially for those prioritizing speed and simplicity. However, those needing more advanced settings might prefer the direct download version.

nordvpn-main
NordVPN desktop app

IPVanish caters to advanced users with features like keyboard shortcuts: Alt+C to connect and Alt+L to view servers. Its Diagnostics tab under Settings proved useful for troubleshooting, providing insights that helped me resolve connectivity issues without contacting support immediately.

ipvanish-main
IPVanish desktop app

For Linux users, NordVPN provides both .deb and .rpm packages. While it lacks a GUI, which can be challenging for those unfamiliar with terminal commands, the installation process is straightforward, with clear documentation.

While IPVanish lacks a native Linux app, it offers manual setup instructions for various distros like Ubuntu and Fedora, which I found relatively easy to follow. However, the lack of a dedicated app might be a drawback for some users.

Mobile apps

IPVanish mobile apps are pretty bland, while NordVPN retains the look of its well-designed desktop counterparts.

nordvpn-mobile
NordVPN mobile app

As it often is, the iOS clients have fewer features, but NordVPN does a pretty good job of keeping its apps at a similar level.

On iOS, I really liked NordVPN’s always-on kill switch – a crucial security feature that IPVanish doesn't have. NordVPN also offers a favorites tab and options for dark web monitoring, which adds to its ease of use.

On Android, IPVanish gave me more control with features like split tunneling and Stealth VPN. Alerts for insecure networks and the ability to choose ports made me feel safer using the app. IPVanish supports OpenVPN and IKEv2 (still in beta), which is great for flexibility.

ipvanish-mobile
IPVanish mobile app

NordVPN's Android app doesn't have IKEv2 but includes NordLynx for fast, secure connections. It features split tunneling, a customizable kill switch, and Threat Protection, giving me more control over my security settings. It also offers Stealth VPN, Onion Over VPN, tapjacking protection, and Custom DNS, providing more security options than IPVanish. These extra NordVPN features made me feel safer and more in control than the simpler IPVanish app.

Customer support

Both providers offer 24/7 live chat support. The agents are polite and resourceful, while the waiting times were minimal. For most users, that's probably more than enough.

Another way to contact IPVanish and NordVPN is by email. This time I found NordVPN to be faster, usually taking less than a day to answer. In contrast, my question for IPVanish took three days to answer.

IPVanishNordVPN
24/7 live chat
✅ Yes✅ Yes
Phone line✅ Yes❌ No
Email✅ Yes✅ Yes
Guides✅ Yes✅ Yes
FAQs✅ Yes✅ Yes

Finally, each service has a well-maintained knowledge base to delve into. Here you'll find FAQs, setup guides, and troubleshooting sections. I liked that IPVanish shows system status at the top of the Support Center's page. So if you have trouble connecting, you may check it out to see if the problem is really on your side.

WRAPPING UP – IT'S A DRAW
NordVPN excels with better macOS flexibility, native Linux support, and stronger mobile security, while IPVanish offers more Android customization. Both provide 24/7 live chat, but NordVPN responds faster to emails, whereas IPVanish includes phone support and a system status tool.

Video review

IPVanish vs NordVPN: which one is better?

CategoryNordVPNIPVanish
Speed
Features
Protection
Streaming
Torrenting
Price
Server locations
Ease of use
Customer support

When comparing NordVPN vs IPVanish, the better choice depends on your needs. IPVanish stands out with unlimited device connections and more flexible protocol support, making it a solid option for those who prioritize versatility. It also held its ground in P2P, server locations, and customer support, which is an impressive feat. With WireGuard, it's also one of the fastest VPNs available.

However, NordVPN takes the lead in security, privacy, server coverage, and advanced features. It delivers a more robust streaming experience, stronger encryption, and a RAM-only server infrastructure for better data protection.

While both are reliable VPNs, NordVPN remains the superior choice for those seeking top-tier security and performance.

FAQ