NordVPN vs IPVanish — Full Comparison 2026
Last updated: February 2026 · Based on hands-on testing
Our Pick
🏆 NordVPN Wins
NordVPN wins convincingly with faster speeds, better streaming support, and more advanced security features. IPVanish's unlimited devices and configurable interface appeal to power users.
NordVPN
IPVanish
| Feature | NordVPN | IPVanish |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Monthly Price | $12.99/mo | $12.99/mo |
| 2-Year Price | $3.09/mo | $2.19/mo |
| Download Speed | 950 Mbps | 790 Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 420 Mbps | 310 Mbps |
| Latency | 28ms | 40ms |
| Servers | 6,400+ | 2,400+ |
| Countries | 111 | 90 |
| Simultaneous Devices | 10 | Unlimited |
| Protocols | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, IPSec |
| Streaming | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime |
Speed Comparison
In our speed tests, NordVPN achieved download speeds of 950 Mbps while IPVanish reached 790 Mbps. Both VPNs were tested on a 1 Gbps connection from multiple locations. NordVPN had the edge in raw throughput, though both services deliver speeds that are more than adequate for streaming, gaming, and everyday browsing.
Latency is equally important, especially for gaming and video calls. NordVPN averaged 28ms while IPVanish came in at 40ms. Lower latency means more responsive connections, which matters for real-time applications.
Security & Privacy
Both NordVPN and IPVanish offer strong security foundations with AES-256 encryption and no-logs policies. NordVPN supports NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, while IPVanish offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, IPSec. Both include essential security features like kill switches and DNS leak protection.
Where they differ is in the extras. NordVPN offers features like Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, Threat Protection, while IPVanish counters with Unlimited Devices, SOCKS5 Proxy, Kill Switch. These additional features can be the deciding factor depending on your specific needs.
Streaming
Streaming capability is a major differentiator between VPNs. NordVPN successfully unblocked Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, HBO Max in our testing. IPVanish worked with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime. Both are solid choices for streaming, though NordVPN was slightly more consistent across platforms.
Pricing & Value
NordVPN starts at $3.09/mo on the 2-year plan ($12.99/mo monthly), while IPVanish costs $2.19/mo for 2 years ($12.99/mo monthly). Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can try either risk-free.
Our Verdict
NordVPN wins convincingly with faster speeds, better streaming support, and more advanced security features. IPVanish's unlimited devices and configurable interface appeal to power users.
Ultimately, both NordVPN and IPVanish are excellent VPN services. Your choice should depend on which features matter most to you. If speed and server coverage are priorities, check the numbers above. If price is the deciding factor, compare the long-term plan costs. Either way, you're getting a quality VPN.