IPVanish vs PIA VPN
IPVanish and PIA VPN are highly-rated VPNs, but serve different security needs. IPVanish provides a complete digital security bundle with cloud storage and a Secure Browser. PIA VPN focuses intensely on privacy, featuring audited, open-source apps. We compare the premium features to help you choose the right digital security partner.
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.
Audited Privacy, Unbeatable Long-Term Value
We find Private Internet Access to be a robust, feature-rich VPN option backed by an independently verified No Logs policy and fully open-source applications. Overall, its strong commitment to user privacy, combined with its ultra-low introductory rates and unlimited simultaneous device support, makes it one of the better value propositions in the VPN market today.
Pros
- Strict No Logs policy is independently audited and court-proven.
- Supports an unlimited number of simultaneous device connections.
- All applications are 100% open source, promoting transparency.
- Access to NextGen servers located in 91 countries.
Cons
- No permanent free version or extended complimentary trial available.
- The introductory rate increases significantly upon renewal for the 1 Year plan.
- The standard monthly rate ($11.95) is relatively high.
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. 🛡️
AboutPIA VPN
PIA is a Virtual Private Network, which serves as a crucial cybersecurity tool. It provides a secure and encrypted internet connection, preventing others from intercepting your data. The service works by rerouting your traffic through private, remote servers, effectively masking your unique IP address in real-time. PIA is built for anyone seeking to regain digital privacy and enjoy secure browsing, whether at home or using public Wi-Fi. It’s simple to use and allows you to protect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously with one subscription. 💡
Highlights
Feature Comparison
Features Overview
We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.
Privacy Transparency
PIA VPN offers superior transparency due to open-source applications and audits.
PIA VPN uses open-source apps for maximum transparency and trust. You can inspect the code to verify how your traffic is handled. Their no-logs policy is audited and verified in court cases. IPVanish also offers a verified No-Logs policy for user confidence. They utilize advanced encryption and use WireGuard for fast, secure connections. However, IPVanish applications are not stated to be open-source. The core difference is accountability. PIA VPN lets the community inspect its underlying security mechanisms. IPVanish offers strong privacy but less source-code visibility. Choose PIA VPN if public verification and code transparency are essential to your security requirements. IPVanish is great, but PIA VPN offers the highest level of openness.
Server Network Size
IPVanish boasts a larger server presence with more geographic locations globally.
IPVanish provides access to over 3,100 servers globally. Their network spans across more than 145 international locations. This ensures high-speed connectivity almost anywhere you travel. PIA VPN focuses on ultra-fast NextGen servers with 10Gbps capacity. They cover 91 countries, including all 50 US states. PIA VPN prioritizes speed and modern infrastructure over sheer global presence. The sheer number of locations gives IPVanish an edge for geo-unblocking capabilities. PIA VPN offers wide coverage but fewer distinct access points. If unblocking content across niche geographic areas is critical, IPVanish is the stronger choice.
Value-Added Tools
IPVanish bundles valuable comprehensive digital security extras, unlike PIA VPN.
IPVanish Advanced plans include 1 TB of Livedrive Cloud Storage. This feature allows secure backup of important files and data. IPVanish also includes a Secure Browser service for threat-proof, disposable browsing sessions. PIA VPN focuses purely on delivering a fast, privacy-focused VPN experience. PIA VPN does not include cloud storage or a dedicated secure browser tool. Purchasing 1TB of cloud storage separately can cost a lot of money every month. IPVanish offers superior added value for users needing file backup. IPVanish provides a full digital security and storage solution, whereas PIA VPN is a specialized, high-performance privacy tool.
Specialized Connectivity
PIA VPN offers a Dedicated IP option for stability, which IPVanish lacks entirely.
PIA VPN provides a Dedicated IP as an optional add-on service. This helps users reduce CAPTCHAs during sensitive activities like banking. Dedicated IP connections offer much higher connection stability for trusted sites. IPVanish uses shared, dynamic IP addresses across its vast server network. This is excellent for basic anonymity and masking your location. IPVanish does not offer a dedicated IP address option. A Dedicated IP is often required for seamless remote access to corporate networks. PIA VPN supports professional use cases requiring static identities. Choose PIA VPN if banking, gaming, or connecting to specific work networks requires a stable, consistent IP address.
Pricing Entry Point
PIA VPN advertises a much lower starting promotional price than IPVanish.
PIA VPN starts promotional pricing as low as $1 per month. This makes it one of the most accessible premium VPNs available. The exact long-term renewal price is not explicit in the data. IPVanish's lowest promotional price starts at $2.19 per month. This introductory rate is for a 2-year commitment to the Essential plan. IPVanish is transparent that renewal rates increase significantly. PIA VPN offers the better deal for initial sign-up and low-cost exploration. Both require a long-term commitment for the best savings. However, IPVanish clearly states future annual renewal costs ($89.99–$109.99). PIA VPN pricing is more ambiguous after the promo.
Our Verdict
This is a close fight between two high-quality, privacy-focused VPN services. Both IPVanish and PIA VPN provide protection for an unlimited number of devices. They both use the lightning-fast WireGuard protocol and enforce strict No-Logs policies. Your choice depends entirely on your specific security priorities and budget. IPVanish stands out because it offers a full digital security platform. The Advanced plan includes 1 TB of essential Livedrive Cloud Storage. You also get the Secure Browser service, protecting sessions from tracking and malware. IPVanish is the better option if you want robust speed and physical security extras. PIA VPN's superpower is unmatched technical transparency and auditability. PIA VPN runs completely on open-source applications the public can inspect. Their no-logs stance is proven by audits and court cases, increasing user trust. PIA VPN also offers specialized features like the Dedicated IP and the MACE ad blocker. The deciding factor is your faith in the software. If you must inspect the code, PIA VPN is the clear winner for transparency. If you want speed plus valuable security extras like cloud backup, choose IPVanish. Overall, PIA VPN is best for privacy purists and tech enthusiasts needing transparency and low cost. IPVanish is the stronger package for families requiring high performance, extensive global reach, and included cloud storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper: IPVanish or PIA VPN?
PIA VPN advertises a lower starting promotional price, as low as $1 per month. IPVanish introductory pricing starts slightly higher at $2.19 monthly. The annual renewal price for IPVanish, however, is clearly stated and quite high.
Can I use IPVanish and PIA VPN on unlimited devices?
Yes, both IPVanish and PIA VPN allow unmetered connections. You can install the VPN on every device you own simultaneously. This provides excellent value for large households or heavy digital users.
Does PIA VPN offer specialized features like a Dedicated IP?
Yes, PIA VPN offers a Dedicated IP as an optional stability add-on. IPVanish does not provide a dedicated IP address option. Dedicated IPs are useful for banking and avoiding CAPTCHAs.
Which VPN is better for streaming speed and global access?
IPVanish offers more server locations globally, covering 145+ locations. Both IPVanish and PIA VPN use WireGuard for blazing speed. IPVanish is slightly better for accessing diverse geo-restricted content.
Does IPVanish include cloud storage like PIA VPN?
IPVanish includes 1 TB of Livedrive Cloud Storage on the Advanced plan. PIA VPN does not include any cloud storage or file backup solutions. IPVanish provides a broader digital security suite.
Why should I choose PIA VPN over IPVanish for privacy?
PIA VPN operates with open-source apps, allowing public code inspection. Their no-logs policy has been verified in court, demonstrating superior transparency. IPVanish has a verified no-logs policy but lacks the open-source component.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.