IPVanish vs Mullvad
IPVanish and Mullvad both fight for your privacy, but in different ways. IPVanish is speed-first; Mullvad is anonymity-first. This showdown helps you pick based on what you value most.
Fast, Unmetered, and Verifiably Secure.
We found IPVanish provides compelling speed and reliability, backed by a verified no-logs policy and excellent 24/7 support availability. This provider achieves remarkable value by allowing unmetered device connections, making it ideal for families or users with many gadgets. Overall, this is a top-tier VPN choice for security and high performance.
Pros
- Unmetered device connections included on all plans.
- High reliability and fast speeds using the WireGuard protocol.
- Independently verified no-logs policy ensures user privacy.
- Dedicated 24/7 live customer support is rated highly by users.
Cons
- The price increases significantly when renewing after the introductory rate.
- Users occasionally need to disable the VPN to access strict banking or financial sites.
Unmatched Privacy with Fixed Ethical Pricing
We admire Mullvad's radical transparency and ethical pricing structure, setting a benchmark for strictly privacy-focused VPNs. Overall, this service delivers exceptional speed and true anonymity, making it the top choice for discerning users who prioritize security over non-essential streaming access.
Pros
- True anonymity from day one (account number only, no personal data required).
- Remarkably simple, flat-rate pricing (€5/month) since 2009.
- Excellent speeds, high performance, and low latency using WireGuard.
- Supports flexible, privacy-focused payments (cash, crypto with 10% discount).
Cons
- Customer support response times are frequently reported as slow.
- Lack of dedicated, user-friendly apps for key mobile operating systems (iOS/Android).
- Inconsistent unblocking of major streaming services and often blocked by search engines.
AboutIPVanish
IPVanish is a leading provider of digital security, going beyond a standard Virtual Private Network. It offers a best-in-class VPN plus additional Secure Browser and Cloud Storage services. The VPN increases connection privacy by encrypting all internet traffic and shielding your IP address data.
For even more privacy, the Secure Browser eliminates tracing efforts like fingerprinting and malware threats. This is achieved by creating a completely disposable browsing session that runs in the cloud. Select plans also include Livedrive Cloud Storage, allowing you to securely back up 1TB of files accessible from anywhere. It's a complete package designed to protect every aspect of your digital life. 🛡️
AboutMullvad
Mullvad VPN is a privacy service built to fight for a free and open internet. They strongly believe society improves when people have the right to privacy. The service works to prevent mass surveillance and censorship. By using a trustworthy VPN, you ensure your online behavior is not treated as a commodity. Mullvad VPN is perfect for anyone seeking a dependable and straightforward method to stabilize their digital freedom. 💡
Highlights
Feature Comparison
Features Overview
We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.
UI & Onboarding
IPVanish offers a streamlined app; Mullvad uses anonymous signup without a dedicated mobile app.
IPVanish provides a simplified app, often securing your data with one tap. Mullvad signup is anonymous: generate an account number with no email. Mullvad lacks a dedicated mobile app for easy iOS/Android use. In practice, IPVanish feels more approachable for families. Mullvad requires manual config on some devices, which can be slower to set up. The real-world impact is a quicker, friendlier start with IPVanish.
Privacy Controls
Mullvad emphasizes true anonymity; IPVanish relies on a verifiable no-logs policy with broader features.
Mullvad uses an account-number system with no personal data. IPVanish maintains an independently verified no-logs policy. Mullvad focuses on anonymity over feature depth. IPVanish offers robust privacy plus extra tools like Secure Browser. The trade-off is simplicity vs advanced tools. For users who value pure anonymity, Mullvad wins; for a balanced privacy/features mix, IPVanish shines.
Speed & Performance
IPVanish leans into WireGuard speeds; Mullvad also uses WireGuard for high performance.
IPVanish uses the WireGuard protocol to deliver fast connections. Mullvad reports excellent speeds and low latency with WireGuard. The trade-off is IPVanish prioritizes speed across many servers; Mullvad prioritizes privacy with solid performance. In real-world use, IPVanish generally feels faster for streaming and gaming.
Device Coverage
IPVanish offers unmetered device connections; Mullvad covers up to five devices.
IPVanish lets you protect every device with unmetered concurrent connections. Mullvad supports up to five devices per account. The difference is clear on households with many gadgets. For multi-device households, IPVanish delivers better value.
Pricing & Value
Mullvad sticks to a flat €5/month; IPVanish uses promotional and renewal pricing.
Mullvad charges a flat €5 per month, with flexible terms. IPVanish offers promo rates as low as $2.19/month, then renews at $89.99–$109.99 per year. The trade-off is predictability vs discounts. If you want budget predictability, Mullvad wins; if you want lower upfront costs, IPVanish can win.
Security & Extra Features
IPVanish bundles Secure Browser and RAM-only servers; Mullvad focuses on anonymity.
IPVanish includes Secure Browser with Advanced plans and 1 TB Livedrive Cloud Storage. RAM-only servers help prevent data persistence. Mullvad emphasizes privacy and simplicity over additional features. The choice depends on whether you want extra tools or pure privacy.
Platform & Apps
IPVanish has broad app support; Mullvad has limited dedicated mobile apps.
IPVanish apps exist across major platforms with simple onboarding. Mullvad lacks a dedicated iOS/Android app, leaning on manual setup. This affects ease of use on mobile devices. For everyday mobile use, IPVanish wins.
Streaming & Entertainment
IPVanish generally handles streaming well; Mullvad IP blocks hinder entertainment use.
IPVanish supports streaming with high speeds, reducing buffering. Mullvad’s IPs are often blocked by major streaming services. If streaming matters, IPVanish offers better reliability. Mullvad prioritizes privacy over streaming access.
Privacy & Transparency
Mullvad emphasizes transparent privacy; IPVanish provides verifiable privacy with additional tools.
Mullvad uses anonymous accounts and transparency as core principles. IPVanish carries an independently verified no-logs policy. The two approach privacy differently. This one is a tie in overall trust, depending on which aspect you value more.
Customer Support
IPVanish offers 24/7 support; Mullvad’s support can be slower.
IPVanish provides round-the-clock live chat and email support. Mullvad's support is slower at times, though refunds can be quick. If you need fast help, IPVanish edges ahead. For privacy-centric questions, Mullvad remains solid but slower.
Our Verdict
IPVanish and Mullvad both protect you online, but in different ways. If you want speed and family-friendly device coverage, IPVanish is the safer default. Mullvad shines when true anonymity and fixed pricing matter most. If privacy is your north star, Mullvad wins on principle; if you want a fast, practical VPN with easy setup, IPVanish wins on everyday use. In most homes, IPVanish is the balanced pick; Mullvad suits privacy-first users who value consistency and straightforward payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for small teams: IPVanish or Mullvad?
IPVanish suits teams with 5+ devices and needs 24/7 support. Mullvad offers anonymous signup and strong privacy but limits devices to five.
Does IPVanish have a Secure Browser like Mullvad?
IPVanish includes a Secure Browser with Advanced plans. Mullvad does not advertise a Secure Browser.
Is Mullvad worth the extra cost over IPVanish?
Mullvad charges €5/month with a 14-day money-back. IPVanish promos start low but renew higher.
Can I migrate from IPVanish to Mullvad easily?
Migration specifics aren’t detailed in the data. Check current transfer options with both providers.
Does Mullvad support port forwarding?
No — Mullvad explicitly states it does not support port forwarding.
Which is better for streaming: IPVanish or Mullvad?
IPVanish generally delivers better streaming performance. Mullvad’s IPs are often blocked by services.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.