Mullvad VPN vs IPVanish: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Mullvad VPN and IPVanish comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Mullvad VPN wins this matchup. Our overall VPN pick is Proton VPN. Our free VPN pick is Brave. Pick IPVanish if you need its specific feature set.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Mullvad VPN
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
Best for you if:
- • You want anonymous signup
- • You want simple pricing
IPVanish
Digital Security, Privacy, & Freedom with VPN, Secure Browser, and Cloud Storage.
Best for you if:
- • You want comprehensive security suite with VPN, secure browser, and cloud storage
- • You want strong privacy features like RAM-only servers and Double Hop VPN
| At a Glance | Mullvad VPN | IPVanish |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $5/moMullvad VPN | $2.19/moEssential (2-Year Plan) |
Best For | Security | Security |
Rating | 3.7/5 | 4.2/5 |
Free plan | No | No |
Choose Mullvad VPN or IPVanish?
Choose Mullvad VPN if
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
- You want anonymous signup
- You want simple pricing
Choose IPVanish if
Digital Security, Privacy, & Freedom with VPN, Secure Browser, and Cloud Storage.
- You want comprehensive security suite with VPN, secure browser, and cloud storage
- You want strong privacy features like RAM-only servers and Double Hop VPN
| Feature | Mullvad VPN | IPVanish |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| User Rating | ★3.7/5 154 reviews | ★4.2/5 176 reviews |
| Categories | SecurityPrivacy Management | SecurityVPN |
In-Depth Analysis
Mullvad VPN
Anonymous VPN with no personal info required
Mullvad VPN's single flat rate of $5/month is fair and highly competitive, especially considering its strong privacy focus and support for up to 5 devices.
Watch out
10% crypto discount requires specific payment method.
Strengths
- +Anonymous signup
- +Simple pricing
- +Open source apps
Weaknesses
- -Smaller server network
- -No streaming focus
Key features
IPVanish
Digital Security, Privacy, & Freedom with VPN, Secure Browser, and Cloud Storage.
IPVanish offers a fair pricing structure, especially with its long-term plans.
Strengths
- +Comprehensive security suite with VPN, secure browser, and cloud storage.
- +Strong privacy features like RAM-only servers and Double Hop VPN.
- +Dedicated apps for various devices, including Apple TV and Fire TV.
- +Threat Protection blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites.
- +Includes eSIM data for secure mobile connectivity.
Weaknesses
- -Cloud storage and secure browser are only available in higher-tier plans.
- -Pricing can be higher for monthly plans compared to longer commitments.
- -Some advanced features like TV Kill Switch are app-specific.
Key features
Pricing: Mullvad VPN vs IPVanish
| Plan | Mullvad VPN | IPVanish |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $5/month Mullvad VPN | $2.19 /mo Essential (2-Year Plan) |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $3.29 /mo Advanced (2-Year Plan) |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $3.33 /mo Essential (Yearly Plan) |
| Tier 4 | N/A | $4.49 /mo Advanced (Yearly Plan) |
| Tier 5 | N/A | $12.99 /mo Essential (Monthly Plan) |
| Tier 6 | N/A | $14.99 /mo Advanced (Monthly Plan) |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Mullvad VPN pricing and IPVanish pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Mullvad VPN
Want the highest-rated option?
Mullvad VPN: 3.7/5 (154 reviews). IPVanish: 4.2/5 (176 reviews).
Go with: IPVanish
Value user reviews?
Mullvad VPN: 154 reviews (3.7/5). IPVanish: 176 reviews (4.2/5).
Go with: IPVanish
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are security tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
IPVanish is rated higher: 4.2/5 vs 3.7/5.
Key Takeaways
Mullvad VPN
- Our pick for this comparison
IPVanish
- Higher user rating: 4.2/5 vs 3.7/5
- Larger review base (176 reviews)
The Bottom Line
Mullvad VPN wins this matchup. Our overall VPN pick is Proton VPN. Our free VPN pick is Brave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mullvad VPN or IPVanish better?
Mullvad VPN is rated in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Mullvad VPN and IPVanish used for?
Mullvad VPN: Anonymous VPN with no personal info required. IPVanish: Digital Security, Privacy, & Freedom with VPN, Secure Browser, and Cloud Storage..
What does Mullvad VPN cost vs IPVanish?
Mullvad VPN is a paid tool. IPVanish is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.