IPVanish vs NordVPN: Which VPN is Better in 2025?

With the increasing demand for secure and private internet access, finding the perfect VPN can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options on the market.

In this comparison, I’ll break down the key differences between two popular VPNs: IPVanish and NordVPN. Both are highly reputable, but which one suits your needs better this year? By the end, you’ll know which VPN is best suited for your needs in 2025.

IPVanish Vs NordVPN: Which VPN is Better?

Choosing between IPVanish and NordVPN comes down to understanding their core strengths and how they align with your needs.

Learn more about NordVPN’s features, performance, and benefits by exploring our in-depth NordVPN review.

While IPVanish focuses on simplicity, affordability, and unlimited device connections, NordVPN is renowned for its advanced security features, global server network, and seamless streaming capabilities.

Both VPNs build solid reputations in the market, but they cater to slightly different audiences—IPVanish for budget-conscious users and NordVPN for those prioritizing premium features and performance.

IPVanish: A Budget-Friendly Choice

Founded in 2012, IPVanish has built its reputation on simplicity, affordability, and functionality. Its standout feature is the unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it ideal for large households or users with multiple devices. Some of its key highlights include:

Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: Connect as many devices as you want with one subscription.
Fast Speeds: Reliable speeds suitable for everyday browsing, streaming, and gaming.
P2P and Torrenting Support: Includes a SOCKS5 proxy for safe and fast file sharing.

However, while IPVanish performs well in these areas, it falls short in providing advanced security features, such as a malware blocker or obfuscation for bypassing strict censorship.

NordVPN: A Leader in Innovation and Security

Also founded in 2012, NordVPN is often seen as the industry benchmark for security and innovation. It is well-suited for users who prioritize privacy, advanced features, and unrestricted access to streaming platforms. Some of its defining features include:

Advanced Encryption: Military-grade AES-256 encryption coupled with the NordLynx protocol ensures unmatched speed and security.
CyberSec: Protects against ads, malware, and phishing attempts while browsing.
Double VPN: Adds an extra layer of encryption for users seeking maximum anonymity.
Massive Server Network: Over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, allowing seamless access to geo-restricted content.

NordVPN also excels in bypassing censorship in highly restricted regions like China and offers optimized servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming.

Differences Between IPVanish and NordVPN

The key differences between IPVanish and NordVPN lie in their features, performance, and target audience. NordVPN stands out with its advanced security features like Double VPN, CyberSec, and a larger global server network, making it a superior choice for privacy-conscious users and streaming enthusiasts.

On the other hand, IPVanish focuses on affordability and offers unlimited device connections, making it ideal for households with multiple users.

1. Security and Encryption

NordVPN leads the pack with military-grade AES-256 encryption combined with NordLynx, a WireGuard-based protocol that balances speed and security. Features like Double VPN and Onion Over VPN further enhance security for sensitive activities like online banking or bypassing government censorship. Additionally, its CyberSec suite protects users from malicious websites and intrusive ads.

IPVanish also uses AES-256 encryption, offering robust baseline security. However, it lacks advanced features such as a built-in ad blocker or multi-hop encryption (Double VPN). On the bright side, IPVanish includes a SOCKS5 proxy, making it a great choice for users focused on P2P activities like torrenting.

2. Speed and Performance

NordVPN is known for its lightning-fast speeds, especially with the NordLynx protocol, it is well-optimized for streaming, gaming, and downloading large files. Long-distance connections remain stable and efficient, making it an excellent choice for global users.

IPVanish offers commendable speeds for short and medium-distance servers, suitable for HD streaming and casual gaming. However, it doesn’t match NordVPN’s consistency for long-distance connections, and its performance fluctuates during peak hours.

3. Streaming and Geo-Unblocking

NordVPN outshines its competitors when it comes to unblocking geo-restricted content. It reliably works with major streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. NordVPN’s obfuscated servers are especially useful in restrictive regions like China or the UAE.

While IPVanish supports streaming, it struggles with unblocking certain platforms like BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video. For casual streaming needs, it works well, but it’s not the best option for bypassing stricter geo-restrictions.

4. Device Compatibility and Connections

When it comes to device compatibility, both IPVanish and NordVPN support all the major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. However, their approach to simultaneous connections offers distinct advantages.

NordVPN now allows up to 10 devices to connect simultaneously with a single subscription, which is a significant increase from its previous limit of six.

This makes it an ideal choice for users with multiple devices who still want advanced security and seamless performance. NordVPN also provides browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, ensuring lightweight protection while browsing. Its apps are user-friendly and feature-rich, catering to both beginners and advanced users.

Try 70% Off NordVPN’s 2 Year Plan

IPVanish, on the other hand, remains unmatched by offering unlimited simultaneous connections. This feature makes it particularly attractive for large households, small businesses, or users with a wide variety of devices. IPVanish supports a range of devices, including smart TVs and gaming consoles, giving it an edge in flexibility.

However, its apps are less polished compared to NordVPN, and some users may find the interface less intuitive.

5. Privacy and Logging Policies

Privacy is a major consideration when choosing a VPN, and both providers have implemented no-logs policies to protect user data.

NordVPN: Operates under a strict no-logs policy, independently audited by reputable third parties. Being based in Panama, outside the jurisdiction of surveillance alliances like the 5/9/14-Eyes, ensures that user data is not subject to government requests.

IPVanish: Also adheres to a no-logs policy but faced criticism in the past for sharing user data with law enforcement. However, the company has since been acquired by StackPath, and it now operates with a revised and transparent no-logs policy.

6. User Interface and Ease of Use

The user experience is just as important as technical specs when choosing a VPN. Both providers have user-friendly apps, but their designs and features cater to different audiences.

NordVPN’s Interface

NordVPN’s app interface is clean, intuitive, and visually appealing. It offers a map-based interface for selecting servers, making it easy for beginners to navigate. Advanced users also have access to settings for customizing protocols, enabling specialized servers (e.g., P2P or Onion Over VPN), and activating the CyberSec suite. With consistent updates, NordVPN’s apps remain among the best in the industry.

IPVanish’s Interface

IPVanish focuses on simplicity and functionality. Its app interface is straightforward, with quick server selection and essential features like split tunneling and a kill switch. While it lacks the polish of NordVPN’s design, it’s easy enough for beginners to use. However, advanced users may find its customization options somewhat limited compared to NordVPN.

7. Speed and Performance: Which VPN Is Faster?

Speed is critical for activities like streaming, gaming, and large downloads. Let’s break down how NordVPN and IPVanish perform.

NordVPN’s Speed

NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol delivers exceptional speeds, particularly for long-distance connections. Whether you’re streaming 4K content, engaging in online gaming, or downloading large files, NordVPN ensures minimal latency and consistent performance. Speed tests regularly place NordVPN at the top of the VPN market for both local and international server speeds.

IPVanish’s Speed

IPVanish offers competitive speeds on short and medium-distance servers, making it suitable for casual streaming and general browsing. However, performance tends to dip with long-distance servers, and speeds can fluctuate during peak usage times. Despite this, it’s fast enough for most users who don’t require ultra-high speeds for demanding tasks.

IPVanish Vs NordVPN Features Comparison

When comparing key features, NordVPN outshines IPVanish with its advanced encryption, Double VPN, and the NordLynx protocol for unparalleled speed and security.

IPVanish, while less feature-rich, excels in offering unlimited simultaneous device connections and reliable speeds for casual streaming and torrenting.

Both VPNs provide strong baseline security, but NordVPN’s additional tools make it a more comprehensive choice for power users.

Pros and Cons of IPVanish and NordVPN

Understanding the pros and cons of each VPN will help you decide which aligns better with your needs. Here’s how IPVanish and NordVPN stack up against each other:

Pros of NordVPN:

Top-notch Security Features: Advanced encryption, Double VPN, and the CyberSec suite protect against malware, ads, and phishing.
Exceptional Streaming Support: Seamlessly unblocks popular platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
Global Server Network: Over 5,500 servers in 60 countries ensure reliable and fast connections anywhere.
Optimized Protocol: The NordLynx protocol, built on WireGuard, delivers fast and secure connections, even for long-distance servers.
10 Simultaneous Connections: A single account supports up to 10 devices, ideal for medium-sized households.

Cons of NordVPN:

Slightly Higher Price: Premium features come at a cost, though discounts and promotions often make it affordable.
Limited Free Trial: Unlike some competitors, NordVPN doesn’t offer a free version, only a money-back guarantee.

Pros of IPVanish:

Unlimited Device Connections: Perfect for families or users with numerous devices.
Budget-Friendly Plans: Offers affordable pricing with no compromise on basic VPN features.
Torrenting-Friendly: Includes a SOCKS5 proxy for secure and fast peer-to-peer file sharing.
User-Friendly Interface: Simple, clean apps for most major platforms.

Cons of IPVanish:

Streaming Limitations: Struggles to unblock certain platforms like BBC iPlayer or Amazon Prime.
Lacks Advanced Features: No built-in ad blocker, malware protection, or Double VPN.
Inconsistent Speeds: Performance can vary depending on server distance and usage.

Pricing and Plans

When comparing IPVanish and NordVPN, their pricing structures and plans offer unique advantages depending on your needs and budget.

NordVPN Pricing

NordVPN offers premium features and robust performance, with pricing that reflects its position as a top-tier VPN provider. While its monthly plan is on the higher side, its long-term plans provide excellent value through significant discounts.

Monthly Plan: $14.99/month – ideal for short-term use or those testing the service.
1-Year Plan: $6.99/month (billed as $83.88 annually) – saves significantly over the monthly option.
2-Year Plan: $3.99/month (billed as $95.76 every 2 years) – the most cost-effective choice.
Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days on all plans.

IPVanish Pricing

IPVanish focuses on affordability, especially for users seeking basic VPN features and unlimited device connections. Its pricing is competitive, but it doesn’t offer long-term plans like NordVPN.

Monthly Plan: $12.99/month – slightly lower than NordVPN’s monthly plan.
1-Year Plan: $3.99/month (billed as $47.88 annually) – an affordable annual option.
Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days, but only available on annual plans.

Conclusion: Which VPN is Better for Streaming in 2025?

If streaming is your priority, NordVPN is the clear winner. With its SmartPlay technology, NordVPN bypasses geo-restrictions to unlock a wide range of streaming services, including Netflix libraries worldwide, Disney+, HBO Max, and more. Its extensive server network ensures smooth HD and 4K streaming with minimal buffering, even in heavily restricted regions.

IPVanish, while reliable for basic streaming, cannot compete in this area. It struggles to unblock services like BBC iPlayer or platforms with stricter geo-restrictions, limiting its usability for international streamers.

For most users, NordVPN’s balance of features, performance, and reliability makes it the better choice overall in 2025. However, IPVanish remains a strong contender for those seeking affordability and simplicity.

FAQs: NordVPN vs IPVanish

1. Is NordVPN faster than IPVanish?

Yes, NordVPN is generally faster, particularly for long-distance connections and high-bandwidth activities like streaming or gaming. Its NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, provides a significant boost in speed without compromising security.

2. Which VPN is better for streaming?

NordVPN is better for streaming because it reliably unblocks popular platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer, even in regions with strict geo-restrictions. IPVanish supports streaming but struggles with some platforms and doesn’t have optimized servers for such tasks.

3. Can IPVanish truly handle unlimited devices?

Yes, IPVanish allows unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription, making it a great option for households or users with multiple devices.

4. Does NordVPN work in restrictive regions like China?

Yes, NordVPN’s obfuscated servers allow it to bypass restrictions in countries like China, ensuring secure access even under strict internet censorship.

5. Which VPN is more affordable?

IPVanish is more affordable upfront and includes unlimited device connections. NordVPN, while slightly pricier, often offers discounts and provides greater value through its advanced features and security tools.