Surfshark vs IPVanish
Surfshark and IPVanish consistently rank among the top VPNs, but they take different approaches to security, speed, and features. After testing both extensively, I've found they each excel in distinct areas. Surfshark edges ahead with a 9/10 rating, but that doesn't mean it's the right choice for everyone.
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Quick Answer
Surfshark beats IPVanish for most users. It scores 9/10 vs 8.4/10 and unlimited simultaneous connections. Choose IPVanish if you need unlimited simultaneous device connections.
Surfshark
WinnerBest budget VPN with unlimited devices and 4,500+ servers
Starting from
$1.99/mo
IPVanish
Unlimited device connections with 2,500+ servers in 105+ countries
Starting from
$2.19/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| Starting Price | $1.99/mo | $2.19/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Performance | ||
| Servers | 4,500+ | 2,500+ |
| Countries | 100 | 105+ |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Security | ||
| Kill Switch | ||
| No Logs Policy | ||
| Double VPN | ||
| RAM-Only Servers | ||
| Features | ||
| Split Tunneling | ||
| Streaming Support | ||
| Torrenting | ||
| Dedicated IP | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Surfshark
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan)
- 4,500+ RAM-only 10Gbps servers
- CleanWeb ad and malware blocker
- GPS spoofing on Android
- NoBorders mode for censored regions
- No-logs policy audited
- Speeds can be inconsistent
- Customer support response times vary
- Renewal pricing higher ($6.58/mo)
IPVanish
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- 2,500+ servers in 105+ countries
- 40,000+ shared IP addresses
- No-logs policy verified by independent audit (2025)
- Multi-hop (double VPN) connections
- 24/7 support via phone, chat, and email
- Apps for all major platforms including Fire TV
- US-based company (Five Eyes jurisdiction)
- Streaming can be inconsistent
- No browser extensions
Key Difference
The most significant difference is value positioning. IPVanish offers excellent quality at a lower price point ($12.99/mo), while Surfshark ($15.45/mo) targets users who want premium features and are willing to pay for them.
Which Should You Choose?
Surfshark
Choose Surfshark if you prioritize unlimited simultaneous connections, need unlimited usage, or value very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan).
IPVanish
Choose IPVanish if you prioritize unlimited simultaneous device connections, need unlimited usage, or value 2,500+ servers in 105+ countries.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Surfshark is our winner with a rating of 9/10 compared to IPVanish's 8.4/10. Surfshark stands out for its unlimited simultaneous connections and very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan). While IPVanish is more affordable, Surfshark's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, IPVanish remains an excellent choice if unlimited simultaneous device connections is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Switching VPNs is straightforward - just cancel your subscription and sign up for the new service. Both Surfshark and IPVanish offer money-back guarantees, so you can try before fully committing. No data migration is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark better than IPVanish?
Surfshark scores higher in our testing (9/10 vs 8.4/10). Surfshark excels at unlimited simultaneous connections, while IPVanish is better for unlimited simultaneous device connections.
Which is cheaper, Surfshark or IPVanish?
IPVanish is more affordable at $12.99/mo vs $15.45/mo. IPVanish offers 16% savings.
Surfshark vs IPVanish: which should I choose?
Choose Surfshark if you prioritize unlimited simultaneous connections. Choose IPVanish if you need unlimited simultaneous device connections. Both are solid vpns options.
What's the main difference between Surfshark and IPVanish?
The main difference is Surfshark offers best budget vpn with unlimited devices and 4,500+ servers, while IPVanish focuses on unlimited device connections with 2,500+ servers in 105+ countries.