IPVanish vs SafeVPN Australia 2025 : Which One I Prefer?

Introduction

When deciding on a VPN, choosing the right one ensures your online privacy in Australia, security, and browsing freedom. This comparison of IPVanish and SafeVPN aims to provide an in-depth analysis, helping users make an informed decision in 2025. Each VPN offers unique features and benefits, catering to different needs such as streaming, gaming, or business use. In this review, we’ll explore what IPVanish and SafeVPN bring to the table, their methodologies, and why selecting the right VPN is crucial for modern internet users.

What Are IPVanish and SafeVPN?

IPVanish

Founded in 2012, IPVanish is a U.S.-based VPN service offering robust security features and a strong reputation for privacy. With a network of over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations, it ensures seamless connectivity and impressive speeds. It supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for families or users with multiple devices,For detailed analysis read my IPvanish review.

Key features:

• Protocols Supported: OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec.
• Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers.
• Unique Features: Split tunneling, encrypted storage, and access to unmetered connections.

SafeVPN

SafeVPN, though less renowned, is an emerging competitor focused on ease of use and accessibility in Australia. With a smaller server network of approximately 700 servers in 40 countries, it targets casual users looking for straightforward protection for browsing and streaming.For detailed analysis read my Safe VPN review.

Key features:

• Protocols Supported: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP/IPSec.
• Platforms: Compatible with Windows, macOS, and mobile devices.
• Unique Features: Beginner-friendly interface and simplified installation.

Importance of Choosing the Right VPN in 2025

In 2025, cybersecurity threats are more advanced, making a reliable VPN essential. Here’s why choosing the right VPN matters:

• Data Privacy and Security
  Governments, corporations, and malicious actors have amplified efforts to track, monitor, or exploit user data. A trusted VPN encrypts your data, securing it against interception and breaches.
• Unrestricted Internet Access
  Many regions continue to impose restrictions on content, and a VPN provides users with the freedom to bypass censorship and access the global internet.
• Online Gaming and Streaming
  With the growing popularity of platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and game streaming services such as GeForce Now, a high-speed, reliable VPN is crucial for minimizing lag and accessing geo-restricted content.
• Protection on Public Wi-Fi
  The proliferation of public Wi-Fi networks poses significant risks, with many serving as hotspots for data theft. A VPN adds a protective shield, ensuring safe browsing in public spaces.

Overview of the Comparison Methodology

Our comparison evaluates IPVanish and SafeVPN based on the following critical factors:

• Security and Privacy Features
  We examine encryption protocols, data logging policies, and unique security tools offered by each VPN.
• Server Network and Speed
  A larger network and optimized servers are vital for consistent performance, particularly for streaming and online gaming.
• Ease of Use and Device Compatibility
  Accessibility across multiple devices and intuitive interfaces ensure a seamless user experience.
• Cost and Value
  Comparing pricing plans, free trials, and additional perks helps gauge affordability and overall value.
• Customer Support
  Reliable support channels, including live chat and knowledge bases, are crucial for troubleshooting and user assistance.

Key Features Comparison: IPVanish vs. SafeVPN

Privacy and Security Protocols

Encryption Standards
IPVanish uses AES-256 encryption, a gold standard for VPN security, ensuring robust protection against cyber threats. SafeVPN also employs AES-256 encryption, providing comparable security in Australia. Both VPNs support OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, with IPVanish offering an additional option, WireGuard, for enhanced speed and security.

No-Log Policy Comparison
IPVanish adheres to a strict no-log policy, audited in 2022 to confirm compliance. This ensures that user activities are not stored or monitored. SafeVPN also promotes a no-log policy in Australia; however, it has not undergone independent audits as of 2023. This could be a consideration for users prioritizing verifiable privacy measures.

Speed and Performance

Average Speeds for Streaming and Gaming
IPVanish delivers average download speeds of approximately 85 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection, suitable for high-quality streaming and lag-free gaming. SafeVPN, while sufficient for most activities, averages around 70 Mbps under similar conditions, which might affect 4K streaming and gaming performance.

Server Network Size and Locations
IPVanish boasts over 2,000 servers in 75+ locations worldwide, providing users with extensive access to geo-restricted content. SafeVPN has a smaller network of around 1,000 servers across 50 countries, which might limit its performance in less common locations.

Device Compatibility

Supported Devices and Simultaneous Connections
IPVanish supports a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and routers. It allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for large households. SafeVPN supports the same platforms but restricts simultaneous connections to five, which may be limiting for users with multiple devices in Australia.

Ease of Use

Interface Design and Setup Simplicity
IPVanish features an intuitive interface with customizable options in Australia, making it suitable for both novices and advanced users. Its apps are consistently rated for their ease of use. SafeVPN offers a straightforward interface but lacks advanced customization options, which could be a drawback for power users.

IPVanish excels in speed, server network, and simultaneous connections, making it a better choice for users seeking versatility and performance. SafeVPN, while adequate for basic needs, may fall short in server availability and verifiable privacy protocols. For power users and those prioritizing robust security, IPVanish is the superior option.

Pricing and Plans: IPVanish vs. SafeVPN

Overview of Subscription Tiers

IPVanish offers a straightforward pricing structure with options tailored to meet diverse needs. Users can choose from monthly, quarterly, and annual plans. The annual plan often includes significant discounts in Australia, with prices as low as $3.99/month (billed annually). IPVanish also provides features such as unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for households or users with multiple devices.

SafeVPN, on the other hand, features a simplified subscription model with monthly and yearly plans. Pricing starts at approximately $4.99/month when billed annually. While slightly more expensive than IPVanish, SafeVPN emphasizes user-friendly features, such as automatic server selection and a clean interface, which may appeal to less tech-savvy users.

Free Trial and Money-Back Guarantees

When it comes to testing the service, IPVanish does not offer a free trial but compensates with a 30-day money-back guarantee on its annual plans. This provides ample time for users to evaluate its speed, security, and usability without financial risk.

SafeVPN provides a 7-day free trial for new users. Additionally, they include a 30-day money-back guarantee for all plans, creating an appealing safety net for first-time customers.

Value-for-Money Comparison

Both VPNs offer competitive pricing, but their value depends on user priorities:

• For Budget-Conscious Users: IPVanish’s annual plan is more affordable and includes unlimited device connections, making it an excellent option for families or tech enthusiasts managing multiple devices.
• For Ease of Use: SafeVPN’s intuitive design and helpful customer support make it worth considering, even with its slightly higher cost. The 7-day free trial further enhances its value for hesitant users.
• Feature-to-Cost Ratio: IPVanish excels in features like split tunneling, robust encryption, and a SOCKS5 proxy, providing superior customization. SafeVPN focuses on simplicity, which might appeal to users prioritizing ease over advanced settings.

Final Verdict

While both VPNs deliver reliable service, IPVanish stands out for users seeking affordability and feature depth. Conversely, SafeVPN caters to those valuing simplicity and beginner-friendly design, despite a marginally higher price point.

Use Cases and Suitability

Best for Streaming

When evaluating IPVanish and SafeVPN for streaming purposes in Australia, it’s important to consider their ability to unblock popular platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

• IPVanish: Known for its robust server network, IPVanish has over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations. While it provides reliable speeds, its performance in unblocking geo-restricted streaming platforms like Netflix US or BBC iPlayer is inconsistent, often requiring multiple server switches.
• SafeVPN: SafeVPN offers specialized servers optimized for streaming, which ensures seamless access to platforms like Disney+ and Netflix UK. It has a smaller network, with around 700 servers in 34 countries, but compensates with high-quality streaming-optimized nodes.

Verdict: SafeVPN edges out IPVanish in streaming consistency due to its dedicated streaming servers and reduced buffering instances.

Gaming Performance

Low latency and minimal packet loss are critical for online gaming, where responsiveness can make or break the experience.

• IPVanish: With its unlimited bandwidth and WireGuard protocol support, IPVanish delivers average ping rates of around 50-60 ms for servers within the same region, making it suitable for casual gamers. However, occasional spikes in latency have been reported during peak hours.
• SafeVPN: Despite a smaller server pool, SafeVPN offers optimized gaming servers that provide lower average ping rates of 30-40 ms, especially in Europe and North America. Its automatic server selection helps avoid congestion, enhancing gaming experiences.

Verdict: For competitive gaming, SafeVPN offers better latency management and stability compared to IPVanish.

Torrenting and P2P Sharing

The ability to support P2P traffic is a key feature for users focused on file-sharing activities like torrenting.

• IPVanish: This VPN supports unlimited P2P traffic across all servers. Its no-logs policy, verified through independent audits, makes it a trustworthy choice for privacy-conscious users engaged in torrenting.
• SafeVPN: While it supports P2P traffic, the limited number of servers may result in slower download speeds during high-traffic periods. SafeVPN’s security features, including AES-256 encryption and a kill switch, ensure safe torrenting but lag behind IPVanish in speed tests.

Verdict: IPVanish stands out as the better option for torrenting due to its speed and extensive server network.

Travel and Public Wi-Fi Use

Travelers and frequent public Wi-Fi users require VPNs capable of bypassing geo-blocks and ensuring robust security against cyber threats.

• IPVanish: Offers excellent performance for bypassing geo-blocks, especially in restrictive regions like China and the UAE, thanks to its Scramble feature, which masks VPN traffic as regular traffic. However, it struggles with some streaming geo-restrictions.
• SafeVPN: While effective in bypassing geo-blocks for most Western countries, SafeVPN is less effective in heavily censored regions in Australia. Its Wi-Fi protection feature, which auto-encrypts traffic on untrusted networks, is a standout for security.

Verdict: For travelers venturing into regions with strict censorship, IPVanish is the better choice. However, SafeVPN offers superior security features for everyday public Wi-Fi use.

Final Verdict

• Best for Streaming: SafeVPN, due to its optimized servers and fewer buffering issues.
• Gaming Performance: SafeVPN, with its lower latency and optimized routing.
• Torrenting and P2P: IPVanish, thanks to its speed and larger server network.
• Travel and Public Wi-Fi: IPVanish, for bypassing censorship and ensuring secure access.

Both VPNs cater to different priorities, so users should choose based on their specific needs.

Customer Support and Reliability

Types of Support Offered (Live Chat, Email, etc.)

IPVanish and SafeVPN both emphasize customer support in Australia. as a critical aspect of their services, yet they approach it differently.

• IPVanish: Offers 24/7 live chat support, email assistance, and a detailed knowledge base with guides, FAQs, and troubleshooting tips. Their live chat is particularly praised for quick resolutions, often addressing queries in under five minutes.
• SafeVPN: Provides a mix of live chat support during specific hours, email support, and a modest help center. While SafeVPN’s chat service is effective, it lacks the 24/7 availability of IPVanish, which may inconvenience users in different time zones.

Key Takeaway: IPVanish outshines SafeVPN in support accessibility, thanks to its round-the-clock live chat feature.

User Reviews and Feedback Analysis

• IPVanish: Aggregated data from platforms like Trustpilot reveals that IPVanish scores 4.2/5 on average. Users commend the immediate response via live chat and the comprehensive troubleshooting resources. A few detractors, however, note occasional delays during peak hours.
• SafeVPN: With a 3.8/5 rating on average, SafeVPN receives mixed feedback. Users appreciate the friendliness of their support team but often criticize the limited operating hours and a less intuitive self-help center.

Real Insight: IPVanish consistently garners higher user satisfaction ratings for its proactive and accessible support, while SafeVPN struggles with availability concerns.

Downtime and Reliability Statistics

When it comes to reliability, both services aim to minimize disruptions but exhibit notable differences in performance:

• IPVanish: Boasts a 99.9% uptime guarantee, backed by robust server monitoring and a widespread network. This level of reliability ensures users experience minimal disruptions while streaming or torrenting.
• SafeVPN: Claims an uptime of approximately 99.5%. Although respectable, sporadic downtime reports during maintenance windows or heavy traffic periods can frustrate users relying on uninterrupted connections.

Supporting Data:

• IPVanish: Recorded an average of 7.2 minutes of downtime monthly in 2023, according to independent monitoring sites.
• SafeVPN: Reported approximately 36 minutes of monthly downtime in the same period, showing room for improvement.

Verdict: IPVanish delivers a more consistent and reliable experience, making it a safer choice for users prioritizing stability.

IPVanish Pros and Cons

IPVanish Pros

• High-Speed Connections: IPVanish offers blazing-fast speeds, suitable for streaming in HD or 4K, online gaming, and large file transfers.
• Large Server Network: With over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations, it provides excellent global coverage, ensuring low latency and reliable connections.
• Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: IPVanish allows unlimited devices to be connected simultaneously, making it ideal for families or small businesses.
• Robust Security Features: Advanced encryption (AES-256), a no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch ensure user data is secure.
• User-Friendly Interface: Apps for all major platforms (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux) with a straightforward setup process.
• Access to Media and Content: It works well with platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, bypassing most geographical restrictions.
• Integrated Backup Services: Includes SugarSync, offering encrypted file storage and sharing.
• Affordable Pricing Options: Competitive pricing with frequent promotions makes it accessible for a wide audience.

IPVanish Cons

1. Inconsistent Performance in Certain Regions: Server speeds may fluctuate, particularly in Asia and Africa.
2. Limited Access to Some Streaming Services: Some users report difficulty accessing BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video.
3. No Free Trial: While there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, IPVanish doesn’t offer a free trial.
4. Customer Support Delays: Although 24/7 support is available, response times via live chat and email can sometimes lag.
5. Based in the US: Being under US jurisdiction may concern privacy-conscious users due to the Five Eyes alliance.

SafeVPN Pros and Cons

SafeVPN Pros

• Affordable Plans for Casual Users: Offers budget-friendly options, especially for short-term plans.
• Focused on Anonymity: Implements robust security protocols, including AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy.
• Easy-to-Use Apps: Clean and intuitive applications for Windows, Android, and iOS make it accessible for beginners.
• Decent Server Coverage: Servers in 50+ locations ensure reasonably wide geographic availability.
• Good for Light Browsing and Basic Security: Sufficient for those seeking privacy while performing routine online activities like web browsing and email.

SafeVPN Cons

• Limited Server Network: Fewer servers compared to competitors, which may lead to slower connections during peak usage.
• Subpar Streaming Capabilities: Struggles with unlocking major streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu in Australia..
• Inconsistent Speeds: Performance can vary significantly based on server location and user load.
• Lack of Advanced Features: Does not offer advanced features like split tunneling, double VPN, or dedicated IP addresses.
• Mixed Customer Support Reviews: While available 24/7, users have reported inconsistent quality of support.
• No Linux Support: Limited compatibility with Linux systems reduces its appeal for tech-savvy users.

Key Takeaways:

• IPVanish is an excellent choice for power users seeking high-speed connections, robust security, and unlimited device usage, despite minor streaming restrictions and US jurisdiction concerns.
• SafeVPN is a viable option for beginners or casual users focusing on basic privacy needs, though it lacks the advanced features and server network strength of its competitors.

For users seeking to make a choice, IPVanish stands out for heavy internet use and multi-device households, while SafeVPN is more appropriate for budget-conscious individuals with minimal streaming needs.

Expert Opinions and Ratings

What Experts Say About IPVanish

IPVanish is widely recognized in the VPN industry for its robust features, including advanced encryption protocols, no-log policies, and a global server network. According to TechRadar, IPVanish boasts over 2,200 servers across 75+ locations, ensuring users experience fast and reliable connections.

Experts from PCMag highlight IPVanish’s commitment to security, utilizing 256-bit AES encryption, which is the industry standard for protecting sensitive data. This feature makes it an excellent choice for users seeking to shield their online activities from prying eyes. IPVanish also supports unlimited simultaneous connections, a feature that distinguishes it from competitors like ExpressVPN and NordVPN, which typically cap connections at five or six.

One critique often mentioned by reviewers, including those at Tom’s Guide, is the user interface. While functional, it lacks the intuitive design of rivals, making it less ideal for beginners. However, for tech-savvy users, IPVanish’s customization options, such as advanced protocols like WireGuard, provide an edge.

Reviews of SafeVPN

SafeVPN, while lesser-known than IPVanish, has garnered a reputation for affordability and ease of use. VPNMentor describes SafeVPN as a budget-friendly option with a straightforward interface that caters to casual VPN users. The service offers servers in 50+ countries, which is commendable but less extensive than IPVanish’s network.

SafeVPN utilizes OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec protocols, offering decent encryption and security. However, it lacks features like split tunneling and kill switch, which are standard in IPVanish. This gap in functionality could pose risks for users who prioritize security, especially in regions with strict censorship laws.

CNET reviews suggest that SafeVPN’s speed is suitable for activities like streaming on platforms such as Netflix and YouTube, but it struggles with high-bandwidth tasks like torrenting. The absence of P2P support is a drawback, especially for users who rely on VPNs for file-sharing.

In terms of customer support, SafeVPN offers 24/7 live chat, a feature on par with IPVanish. However, users frequently note that the response time can be slower compared to IPVanish’s support team.

Key Comparison Insights

• Security Features: IPVanish excels with military-grade encryption and advanced protocols. SafeVPN, while secure, does not offer does not offer the same security.
• Server Network: IPVanish leads with 2,200+ servers in 75+ locations, compared to SafeVPN’s 50+ countries.
• Ease of Use: SafeVPN is beginner-friendly, while IPVanish is better suited for experienced users due to its customizable features.
• Pricing: SafeVPN is a budget-friendly option, whereas IPVanish offers a more premium experience with added functionalities like unlimited device connections.
• Streaming and Torrenting: IPVanish supports P2P and offers better speeds for streaming, whereas SafeVPN is limited in these areas.

By comparing IPVanish and SafeVPN, users can identify which service aligns better with their specific needs, whether it’s robust security, extensive server networks, or affordability.

Which One I Prefer?

After diving deep into the comparison of IPVanish and SafeVPN, my decision is rooted in balancing performance, features, and usability. IPVanish stands out for its robust offering of over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations, unlimited simultaneous connections, and excellent speeds for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. As someone who values flexibility and advanced features like split tunneling and WireGuard support, IPVanish aligns perfectly with my needs for both privacy and versatility.

While SafeVPN offers simplicity and ease of use, it feels more geared toward beginners or casual users. Its limited server network, lack of advanced customization, and inconsistent performance during high-bandwidth tasks leave me wanting more. The 7-day free trial is a nice touch for first-time users, but when it comes to long-term reliability and feature depth, IPVanish takes the lead.

My Winner: IPVanish

For its combination of affordability, advanced security protocols, extensive server coverage, and user-centric features, IPVanish is my top choice. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a high-performing, feature-rich VPN that caters to both power users and those with multiple devices. If you’re looking for a VPN that delivers on all fronts, IPVanish is the clear winner.

FAQ’s: IPVanish vs SafeVPN

Is IPVanish better for streaming than SafeVPN?

When it comes to streaming, IPVanish often outperforms SafeVPN due to its robust server network and optimized speeds. IPVanish operates over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations, allowing users to bypass geo-restrictions on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. The service also supports simultaneous connections, ideal for households with multiple devices.

In comparison, SafeVPN provides access to 1,000+ servers across 40+ countries. While this network is adequate for streaming, it struggles to unblock content from certain platforms, especially Netflix’s regional libraries. Additionally, some users report buffering issues during high-traffic periods, making it less reliable for high-definition streaming.

Verdict: If streaming is a priority, IPVanish offers better performance, wider server coverage, and consistent unblocking capabilities.

Which VPN offers better value for money?

Value is often determined by a combination of price, features, and performance. Let’s compare:

IPVanish stands out with its unlimited device connections and added extras like 256-bit encryption, SOCKS5 proxy for faster torrenting, and free encrypted storage. These features cater to privacy enthusiasts and power users who need robust protection.

SafeVPN, while slightly more expensive, includes features like built-in ad-blocking and malware protection, which might appeal to casual users looking for convenience.

Verdict: IPVanish provides better value for users who prioritize comprehensive features and advanced options. SafeVPN, on the other hand, may suit those seeking simplicity and basic protection.

Are both VPNs safe to use?

Both IPVanish and SafeVPN implement industry-standard security protocols, including AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN/IKEv2. Here’s a closer look:

1. IPVanish:
   • No-logs policy: Verified by independent audits, ensuring no user activity is stored.
   • Kill switch: Prevents IP leaks in case of unexpected disconnections.
   • Advanced protocols: WireGuard support for better performance and security.
2. SafeVPN:
   • Privacy-focused: While it claims a no-logs policy, it hasn’t undergone third-party audits to confirm this.
   • Security features: Includes a kill switch and DNS leak protection but lacks WireGuard support, making it slightly less cutting-edge than IPVanish.

While both services are secure, IPVanish offers more transparency and advanced features to ensure user privacy. SafeVPN provides adequate protection for casual users but falls short in terms of third-party verification.

Verdict: For users who prioritize privacy and verified safety, IPVanish is the superior choice.

Conclusion: IPVanish vs. SafeVPN

Summary of Key Differences and Recommendations

IPVanish:

• Core Strengths: Advanced security features, exceptional speed, and extensive device compatibility.
• Server Network: Over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations globally.
• Additional Features: Offers split tunneling, unlimited simultaneous connections, and a proprietary WireGuard protocol implementation for enhanced performance.
• Pricing: Competitive pricing with no-log policy independently audited in 2023.
• Ideal For: Power users, streamers, and those needing robust features for multiple devices.

SafeVPN:

• Core Strengths: User-friendly interface, strong encryption standards, and reliable customer support.
• Server Network: Moderate coverage with 800+ servers in 50 countries.
• Additional Features: Focused on security with features like kill switch and DNS leak protection, but fewer advanced customization options.
• Pricing: Affordable entry-level plans but lacks a no-logs audit as of 2025.
• Ideal For: Casual users, beginners, and those seeking straightforward VPN usage.

Final Verdict: Which VPN is Better in 2025?

The choice between IPVanish and SafeVPN hinges on user priorities. If you need a feature-rich VPN capable of handling high-speed streaming, torrenting, and extensive device connections, IPVanish is the superior choice. Its independent audits and expansive server network underscore its reliability and security.

Conversely, SafeVPN serves as a dependable option for those who value simplicity and solid security without the need for technical complexity. It is ideal for users new to VPNs or those with basic online privacy needs.

Recommendation: IPVanish edges ahead as the better VPN in 2025, especially for advanced users. However, for casual users prioritizing ease of use, SafeVPN remains a commendable alternative.