IPVanish vs Surfshark

This comparison is tough: both providers offer security for unlimited devices. IPVanish focuses on pure VPN speed and dense server locations. Surfshark provides an expansive identity protection bundle. The best choice truly depends on your need for advanced extras.

IPVanish
IPVanish

Fast, Unmetered, and Verifiably Secure.

Ciroapp review
4.3
#8 in VPN

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.
Pricing
$2.19/mo
Free trialYes
Money-back30 days
Best for
Heavy streamers needing reliable 4K/HD performance globally, Users prioritizing connection density across 145+ specific locations, Individuals seeking secure cloud storage bundled with their VPN service (1 TB)
Surfshark
Surfshark

Robust Security Suite for Unlimited Devices

Ciroapp review
4.7
#2 in VPN

We find Surfshark offers extensive value, combining a high-speed VPN with crucial identity protection tools like Incogni and Antivirus coverage for all your gadgets. External feedback confirms users appreciate the seamless multi-device coverage and consistently highlight the exceptional speed and patience of the customer support team. Overall, Surfshark stands out as a leading choice for users prioritizing extensive coverage and robust security features backed by excellent human assistance.

Pros

  • Protects an unlimited number of simultaneous devices.
  • Customer support is exceptionally fast, professional, and helpful.
  • Comprehensive cybersecurity bundles (Surfshark One) available.
  • Easy to install and simple user experience across multiple platforms.

Cons

  • Users occasionally report VPN connection dropouts.
  • Some third-party applications may conflict, requiring exclusion lists.
  • Setup can be complex with non-standard logins (e.g., Amazon ID) or specific devices (e.g., Fire Stick).
Pricing
Not explicitly stated
Free trial
Money-back30 days
Best for
Privacy purists demanding 100% RAM-only servers, Users focused on advanced anonymity via IP Rotator and Dynamic MultiHop, Households needing a full cybersecurity suite including Antivirus and ID monitoring
Quick verdict
Choose IPVanish if you are a media consumer focused on streaming quality and prioritize connecting across 145+ global locations without data caps
Choose Surfshark if you need comprehensive digital defense including Antivirus, automated data removal (Incogni), and advanced anonymity features like IP Rotation

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. 🛡️

AboutSurfshark

Surfshark offers a complete toolkit for defending your digital life. The core service is a robust VPN that secures your connection and works tirelessly wherever you go. This intuitive design means you will master it quickly. 💡

Beyond the VPN, Surfshark shields your entire device with Antivirus. This real-time defense works in the backstage, scanning files before you open them to keep malicious threats out. It even includes webcam protection. Finally, identity tools like Incogni and Alternative ID help guard your personal information. Incogni removes your data from the lists of data brokers. Alternative ID gives you a virtual phone number and email address to use for online registrations instead of your private details. It’s an easy-to-use app you can download on all your devices.

Highlights

Quick winners by category at a glance.
Ease of Use
Both IPVanish and Surfshark are frequently praised by users for their streamlined, easy-to-operate apps. Setting up features is simple on both services.
Tie
Feature Set
Surfshark’s expansive Surfshark One bundle includes Antivirus and Incogni, providing a broader security spectrum. IPVanish focuses more narrowly on core VPN speed and storage.
Value for Money
Surfshark provides a full cybersecurity suite—Antivirus, Identity Tools, advanced VPN—for unlimited devices. IPVanish’s high renewal rate detracts from its long-term value.
Server Reach
IPVanish operates across 145+ global locations, significantly more than Surfshark's 100+ countries. IPVanish offers greater geographic flexibility.
Advanced Privacy
Surfshark employs 100% RAM-only servers and offers the IP Rotator feature for dynamic anonymity. IPVanish uses a combination of server types.
Customer Support
Surfshark receives almost universally excellent feedback for fast, patient, and professional live chat support. Reviews for IPVanish support are good, but less glowing.

Feature Comparison

Compare key features side by side
Simultaneous Devices
IPVanish:Unmetered
Surfshark:Unlimited
Surfshark
Total Server Count
IPVanish:3,100+
Surfshark:3,200+
Tie
Server Locations/Countries
IPVanish:145+ Locations
Surfshark:100+ Countries
IPVanish
RAM-Only Servers Used
IPVanish:Combination HDD/RAM
Surfshark:Yes (All 3200+)
Tie
High-Speed Protocol
IPVanish:WireGuard®
Surfshark:WireGuard®
Tie
Antivirus/Malware Protection
IPVanish:Threat Protection
Surfshark:Surfshark Antivirus (Real-time defense)
Tie
Cloud Storage Included
IPVanish:1 TB (Advanced Plans)
Surfshark:No
IPVanish
Dedicated IP Option
IPVanish:Not mentioned
Surfshark:Available as upgrade
Surfshark
Data Broker Removal Service
IPVanish:No
Surfshark:Yes (Incogni)
Surfshark
Advanced IP Anonymity
IPVanish:Double Hop
Surfshark:IP Rotator (changes IP every 10 min)
Tie
Custom MultiHop Paths
IPVanish:No
Surfshark:Yes (Dynamic MultiHop via Nexus)
Surfshark
Identity Alert/Breach Monitor
IPVanish:No
Surfshark:Yes (Alert feature)
Surfshark
Secure Browser Service
IPVanish:Yes (Advanced Plans)
Surfshark:No (Search private engine included)
IPVanish
24/7 Live Chat Support
IPVanish:Yes
Surfshark:Yes
Tie
Free Trial Availability
IPVanish:Yes (iOS/Android only)
Surfshark:No
IPVanish
eSIM Data Included
IPVanish:3GB or 5GB
Surfshark:No
IPVanish
No-Logs Policy Audit
IPVanish:Independently Verified
Surfshark:Audited by Deloitte Content
Tie
Feature Comparison Summary
5
IPVanish
7
Ties
5
Surfshark

Features Overview

We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.

Device Coverage

Both offer industry-leading unlimited connections. Protect every single device you own seamlessly.

Tie

IPVanish proudly features unmetered connections on every plan. You never have to choose which device gets protection. Families and heavy users get incredible value from IPVanish's policy. Surfshark also offers unlimited simultaneous devices per subscription. You can easily secure your whole household without extra accounts. This allows protection across phones, tablets, and smart TVs without issue. Since both IPVanish and Surfshark include unlimited devices, this feature is essentially a tie. It makes both services highly attractive for large families or users with many gadgets. This policy allows you to ensure continuous security for every laptop and phone you own. Neither IPVanish nor Surfshark forces you to ration your connections.

Global Server Reach

IPVanish connects you to more geographical locations worldwide than Surfshark.

IPVanish

IPVanish offers a vast network of 3,100+ servers in 145+ locations. This wide reach provides crucial flexibility for geo-restricted access. Users often find a nearby fast connection with IPVanish easily. Surfshark slightly edges out IPVanish in server count with 3,200+ servers. However, Surfshark's network spans across 100+ countries, fewer locations than IPVanish. Surfshark ensures all servers are RAM-only for improved privacy. IPVanish is the clear winner here for sheer geographical distribution. If connecting to a niche or less common global location is key, pick IPVanish. This location density translates directly into more options for bypassing international content blocks. You are more likely to find a specific server with IPVanish.

Security Suite Extras

Surfshark bundles superior identity protection and Antivirus. IPVanish focuses on cloud storage and secure browsing.

Surfshark

IPVanish Advanced plans include Livedrive Cloud Storage (1 TB). This feature handles secure file backup alongside the VPN service. IPVanish also offers a Secure Browser for isolated, disposable web sessions in the cloud. Surfshark offers the 'One' suite, which is extremely comprehensive. It includes Antivirus, proactive data breach alerts, and Alternative ID for proxy data. Surfshark's Incogni also automatically contacts data brokers to remove your private information. Surfshark's security package is broader, focusing heavily on identity theft and device health. IPVanish's focus is on secure storage and isolated browsing sessions, which is niche. If identity protection and Antivirus are high priorities, Surfshark delivers superior coverage. IPVanish is great if you need cloud storage bundled into your security budget.

Pure Anonymity Tech

Surfshark’s Nexus technology offers more advanced connection control than IPVanish.

Surfshark

IPVanish offers standard advanced security tools like Split Tunneling and Double Hop. Double Hop routes your traffic through two separate VPN servers. This adds a critical layer of anonymity to your connection. Surfshark uses innovative Nexus technology for advanced control. The IP Rotator automatically changes your IP address every ten minutes. Surfshark also allows Dynamic MultiHop, letting users create custom server pairings. Surfshark's IP Rotator is a powerful tool for maintaining continuous anonymity. It makes tracking nearly impossible for snoopers trying to follow your path. Users demanding maximum anonymity benefit greatly from Surfshark's constant IP changes. IPVanish's Double Hop remains effective but is less dynamic.

Customer Support

Both offer 24/7 service, but Surfshark users consistently praise their support speed and quality.

Surfshark

IPVanish provides 24/7 support via live chat and email for all subscribers. Advanced plan users also gain access to dedicated phone support during business hours. Users report high reliability and professionalism. Surfshark's users frequently rave about their support agents in online reviews. They report live chat is extremely fast, patient, and helpful with quick problem resolution. Specific agents are often named for their excellence. While IPVanish technically offers phone support (for advanced plans), the high volume of explicit praise for Surfshark's live chat team makes them stand out. If fast, helpful human interaction is a must-have, Surfshark has a clear edge in user feedback. The support quality is repeatedly mentioned as exceptional.

RAM-Only Commitment

Surfshark commits to RAM-only servers throughout their network, enhancing privacy standards.

Surfshark

IPVanish utilizes a combination of both traditional HDD and volatile RAM-only servers. RAM-only servers help prevent persistent data storage on the machine. This is a crucial security feature. Surfshark clearly states that all 3,200+ servers operate using RAM-only architecture. This strict adherence ensures data destruction upon reboot. It greatly minimizes the risk of physical server seizure compromising user data. Surfshark's 100% RAM-only server commitment represents a higher standard for privacy assurance. IPVanish is hybrid, offering slightly less consistency in this area. For privacy purists, the uniform RAM-only approach of Surfshark is more reassuring. It fulfills the goal of zero long-term data storage completely.

Pricing Transparency

IPVanish offers clear upfront pricing but uses a high renewal rate model that users dislike.

Tie

IPVanish lists clear introductory prices, starting as low as $2.19/month for two years. However, the renewal rate jumps significantly, renewing annually at $89.99 or $109.99. Users frequently complain about this surprise jump. Surfshark's current pricing is less transparent in the provided data, often focusing on the bundle value. They offer the core VPN and the Surfshark One bundle. Both come with a standard 30-day money-back guarantee. IPVanish provides concrete numbers, which is helpful, but the steep renewal rate is a critical trap. Surfshark maintains superior perceived value due to the comprehensive bundle. If you plan to subscribe for the long term, evaluate IPVanish's high annual renewal price carefully. Surfshark's overall value proposition feels stronger.

Integrated Features

IPVanish bundles eSIM data and cloud storage. Surfshark bundles Antivirus and Identity tools.

Tie

IPVanish aims for a comprehensive communications/storage package. The Advanced plan includes 1 TB of Livedrive Cloud Storage. All IPVanish plans receive 3 GB or 5 GB of eSIM data usable internationally. Surfshark focuses on digital and personal identity protection. The bundle includes real-time Antivirus protection for your local device. It also features Incogni for data broker removal. This difference is a clear trade-off based on needs: Do you value secure backup and mobile data included with IPVanish? Or do you prioritize device security and identity management with Surfshark? IPVanish better serves those who need both VPN and cloud backup utilities in one subscription. Surfshark is a true cybersecurity suite rather than just a VPN utility.

Our Verdict

Objective guidance based on features, pricing, and user fit.

This is a great fight for users needing security on unlimited devices, but a clear winner emerges based on features. Choosing between IPVanish and Surfshark depends entirely on your need for advanced tools. IPVanish's superpower lies in its server reach and integration of physical services like cloud storage and eSIM data. IPVanish has servers in 145+ locations worldwide, ensuring high-speed streaming results. If you mostly need a fast, reliable VPN connection across many global points, IPVanish is a strong contender. Surfshark, however, provides a vastly superior comprehensive security toolkit, the Surfshark One suite. Surfshark includes real-time Antivirus, powerful Nexus IP Rotator technology, and Incogni data removal functionality. Surfshark is a true cybersecurity solution, not just a VPN. The deciding factor is whether you want security utilities or a comprehensive security ecosystem. IPVanish is for the user who prioritizes pure VPN speed and wide location choice. Choose Surfshark if you want maximum protection for your entire digital identity, including your device and personal data. Ultimately, Surfshark's feature depth and superior user satisfaction give it the overall edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which service offers protection on more devices: IPVanish or Surfshark?

Both IPVanish and Surfshark offer unmetered/unlimited device connections per subscription. This makes both services excellent choices for large families or users with many gadgets. You can confidently install the VPN on every device you own.

Which is better for anonymity: Surfshark or IPVanish?

Surfshark holds an edge in advanced anonymity features. Surfshark uses 100% RAM-only servers and its IP Rotator automatically changes your IP every ten minutes. IPVanish is highly secure but does not offer the same dynamic anonymity tools.

Does IPVanish have a feature like Surfshark's Incogni?

No, IPVanish does not offer a dedicated data broker removal service like Incogni. Surfshark's Incogni works automatically to remove your data from broker lists. IPVanish focuses its advanced packages on cloud storage and a Secure Browser service instead.

Which VPN has a broader server network: IPVanish or Surfshark?

IPVanish provides broader access with 3,100+ servers in 145+ locations. Surfshark has a slightly larger server count (3,200+) but covers only 100+ countries. If maximum location flexibility is crucial, IPVanish is the better pick.

Is Surfshark worth the extra cost over IPVanish?

Surfshark’s cost is justified if you use the bundled Antivirus, identity, and data removal tools. IPVanish is cheaper initially but has dramatically higher renewal prices. Surfshark offers a better long-term value due to its comprehensive security suite.

Which service provides better customer support?

Both IPVanish and Surfshark offer 24/7 support via live chat and email. User reviews consistently highlight Surfshark’s support agents as exceptionally fast and helpful. Surfshark holds the edge based on customer sentiment.

Ready to Choose?

Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.