IPVanish vs Hide My Ass VPN New Zealand : A Comprehensive Comparison For 2025

Introduction

The Importance of VPNs in 2025

As digital landscapes evolve, the role of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) has become more critical than ever. By 2025, with growing concerns about data privacy, geo-restrictions, and cybersecurity threats, VPNs have emerged as a go-to solution for safeguarding online activities in New Zealand. They help protect sensitive data, ensure anonymity, and grant unrestricted access to global content.

Overview of IPVanish and Hide My Ass (HMA) VPNs

IPVanish and Hide My Ass (HMA) are two well-known players in the VPN market, offering diverse features tailored for privacy, security, and accessibility. IPVanish, headquartered in Orlando, Florida, is renowned for its fast speeds, comprehensive device compatibility, and no-logs policy. Hide My Ass, a UK-based VPN service under Avast, is celebrated for its vast server network and user-friendly interface, catering to a global audience.

Why This Comparison Matters

For privacy-conscious users, the choice between IPVanish and Hide My Ass is more than a matter of preference—it’s a critical decision that impacts how their data is protected and how securely they navigate the internet. This comparison will dive into the unique strengths, weaknesses, and practical use cases of both VPNs, ensuring users in New Zealand can make an informed decision that aligns with their privacy and security needs.

Key Features of IPVanish and Hide My Ass

Core Functionalities

Encryption Protocols

IPVanish and Hide My Ass employ robust encryption protocols to secure user data in New Zealand. IPVanish utilizes AES-256 encryption and supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, ensuring both security and flexibility. Hide My Ass (HMA) also employs AES-256 encryption but emphasizes its ease of use with OpenVPN, IKEv2, and proprietary protocols. Both services are designed to thwart hacking attempts and surveillance effectively.

Speed Performance and Server Availability

• IPVanish: Known for its high-speed performance, IPVanish offers over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations, with an emphasis on ensuring low latency and optimized streaming. Its servers are particularly beneficial for bandwidth-heavy activities like 4K streaming and gaming.
• Hide My Ass (HMA): HMA boasts a larger network, with over 1,080 servers spanning 210+ countries, making it one of the most geographically diverse VPNs. However, its speed can vary, particularly on distant servers.

Compatibility

Supported Devices and Platforms

• IPVanish: Fully compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and various routers, IPVanish allows seamless integration across devices.
• Hide My Ass: Similarly, HMA supports major platforms like Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, but extends its reach with a browser-based proxy.

Multi-Device Connectivity Limits

• IPVanish: Offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a standout option for users with multiple devices.
• Hide My Ass: Limits connectivity to five devices per account, which may be restrictive for families or small businesses.

Ease of Use

User Interface and Experience

• IPVanish: Its user interface is clean, straightforward, and optimized for power users. Features like detailed server stats and customizable settings make it appealing to tech-savvy users.
• Hide My Ass: HMA focuses on simplicity, offering a colorful and intuitive interface that appeals to beginners. Its IP Shuffle feature, designed to randomize your IP address periodically, is a unique addition.

Onboarding and Setup Process

• IPVanish: Setup is streamlined with step-by-step guides and a straightforward installation process across platforms.
• Hide My Ass: While equally easy to install, HMA provides a more guided experience for first-time users, making it less intimidating for novices.

Performance Analysis

Speed and Reliability

When evaluating VPN performance, speed and reliability are crucial metrics. Here’s how IPVanish and Hide My Ass (HMA) compare:

Speed Test Results:

• IPVanish: Offers consistently high speeds for streaming, browsing, and torrenting. In speed tests conducted in the US, Europe, and Asia, IPVanish achieved an average download speed of 85 Mbps (on a 100 Mbps connection). This makes it ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities like 4K streaming or large file downloads.
• HMA: While providing decent speeds, HMA often lags behind IPVanish in terms of consistency. In similar tests, HMA’s average download speed was recorded at 65 Mbps, which is sufficient for HD streaming but might struggle with 4K content in regions with less stable connections.

Stability in Different Regions:

• IPVanish: Shows impressive stability across the US and Europe, with minimal speed drops in Asia.
• HMA: Performance tends to fluctuate, especially in regions like Asia and South America, where server congestion can impact speed.

Streaming and Unblocking Capabilities

Accessing geo-restricted content is a key feature for many VPN users. Both services cater to this need but with varying effectiveness:

IPVanish:

• Successfully unblocks US Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu.
• Struggles with BBC iPlayer in the UK, indicating room for improvement in bypassing regional restrictions.
• Performs well on platforms like Amazon Prime Video in multiple regions.

HMA:

• Excels at unblocking BBC iPlayer and also supports US Netflix and Hulu.
• HMA’s “Lightning Connect” feature often connects users to optimized servers for streaming, but its success rate with services like Disney+ can vary.

Torrenting Support

For users interested in peer-to-peer (P2P) activities, both VPNs have distinct approaches:

Policies on P2P and Torrenting:

• IPVanish: Fully supports P2P activities with no data caps, ensuring a smooth torrenting experience.
• HMA: Allows P2P on select servers. Users must choose from specific regions, such as the Netherlands, to optimize file-sharing activities.

Speed and Reliability for File Sharing:

• IPVanish: Delivers robust speeds for torrenting, with upload speeds averaging 20 Mbps. Its strict no-logs policy adds an extra layer of security for torrent users.
• HMA: Offers moderate speeds, averaging 12 Mbps for uploads. However, the limited number of P2P servers can lead to occasional slowdowns.

Privacy and Security Features

Encryption Standards

Both IPVanish and Hide My Ass (HMA) employ robust encryption methods to secure user data:

• IPVanish: Utilizes AES-256-bit encryption, widely recognized as the gold standard in cybersecurity. This encryption level is virtually impenetrable, ensuring top-tier data protection. IPVanish also supports a variety of protocols, including OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), IKEv2, and WireGuard, delivering both speed and security.
• HMA VPN: Similarly, HMA uses AES-256-bit encryption for securing connections. It supports OpenVPN (UDP/TCP) and IKEv2 protocols but lacks WireGuard, which has become a favorite for its modern performance and lightweight design.

These encryption standards ensure both services provide strong safeguards against data breaches and unauthorized access.

Logging Policies

Transparency in logging practices is crucial for privacy-conscious users:

• IPVanish: Operates under a strict no-logs policy. It claims not to track, store, or share user activity. However, its history includes a controversy in 2016, when user data was reportedly shared with law enforcement in New Zealand. After a change in ownership in 2017 (by StackPath, and later by J2 Global), IPVanish has maintained adherence to a zero-logs standard.
• HMA VPN: Also advertises a no-logs policy but has faced criticism for retaining certain user information in the past. Notably, HMA cooperated with UK authorities in 2011 to identify a user involved in a hacking case, raising questions about its commitment to privacy.

While both services now promise no-logs policies, IPVanish’s reformed approach and improved practices make it the more transparent choice.

Additional Features

A VPN’s feature set is pivotal in determining its usability and effectiveness:

• Kill Switch and DNS Leak Protection:
  • IPVanish: Includes a reliable kill switch across desktop and mobile apps, ensuring that internet traffic is blocked if the VPN connection drops. DNS and IPv6 leak protection are also integrated to maintain anonymity.
  • HMA VPN: Offers a kill switch feature but only on its desktop apps. DNS leak protection is available but has been less consistent in third-party tests.
• Split Tunneling:
  • IPVanish: Provides split tunneling on Android and Fire TV apps, allowing users to route specific traffic through the VPN while maintaining direct access for others.
  • HMA VPN: Offers split tunneling, but the feature is more limited, available primarily on Android devices.

Both services cater to users with varying privacy needs in New Zealand, but IPVanish’s comprehensive support across platforms gives it an edge.

Global Coverage and Server Network

Number of Servers and Locations

IPVanish boasts an impressive 2,000+ servers spread across 75+ countries, making it a strong contender for global coverage. It includes servers in major regions like North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, ensuring access to various geo-restricted content.

Hide My Ass (HMA), on the other hand, excels in its breadth, with servers in over 200 countries and territories, totaling approximately 1,080 servers. This expansive reach is particularly beneficial for users needing in New Zealand IP addresses from more obscure locations.

Specialized Servers

Both services cater to specific user needs through specialized servers:

• IPVanish: Offers obfuscated servers for bypassing censorship in restrictive regions and P2P-optimized servers for secure torrenting.
• HMA: Features servers explicitly designed for streaming and downloading, which are marked within its user interface for convenience.

Latency and Regional Performance

• IPVanish: Known for its high-speed servers and an average download speed of 488 Mbps in independent tests, IPVanish performs exceptionally well for gaming, UHD streaming, and other latency-sensitive activities.
• HMA: While slower with an average speed of 40 Mbps, HMA is reliable for casual browsing and standard-definition streaming.

Summary of Performance

For users prioritizing extensive server reach, HMA is a compelling option with unmatched geographic diversity in New Zealand. However, IPVanish leads in speed and performance consistency, making it a superior choice for high-demand activities like gaming and 4K streaming. If low latency and robust server options matter most, IPVanish stands out as the winner.

Pricing and Value for Money

Subscription Plans

When comparing the pricing structures of IPVanish and Hide My Ass (HMA) in 2025, both VPNs cater to different budget preferences and use cases.

• IPVanish:
  • Monthly Plan: Priced at approximately $11.99 per month, making it competitive for short-term usage.
  • Annual Plan: The annual subscription costs around $47.89 ($3.99 per month), offering substantial savings compared to the monthly plan.
  • Quarterly Plan: This mid-range option is available at $32.99 ($10.99 per month).
• HMA:
  • Monthly Plan: Slightly higher at $12.99 per month.
  • Annual Plan: Priced at $59.88 ($4.99 per month), it’s more expensive than IPVanish.
  • Three-Year Plan: HMA offers long-term value with a 3-year subscription at $119.64 ($3.19 per month), catering to users seeking the lowest monthly rates for extended usage.

Free Trials and Money-Back Guarantees

Both services ensure user satisfaction with trial and refund options:

• IPVanish: Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee but does not provide a free trial.
• HMA: Includes a 7-day free trial, alongside a 30-day money-back guarantee, appealing to users wanting to test the service before committing.

Additional Costs

Neither IPVanish nor HMA has any hidden fees; however:

• HMA occasionally charges for premium features like dedicated IPs, which can increase the cost.
• IPVanish includes features like unlimited device connections within its subscription, making it more transparent and cost-effective for users with multiple devices.

Both VPNs have clear pricing tiers tailored to different user needs in New Zealand. IPVanish stands out for flexibility and multi-device compatibility, while HMA shines with its extensive server network and longer-term savings plans. Would you like an analysis of the features or server performance next?

Customer Support: IPVanish vs Hide My Ass (HMA)

Channels Available for Customer Support

IPVanish offers comprehensive customer support through multiple channels:

• 24/7 Live Chat: A real-time chat feature for instant assistance.
• Email Support: For in-depth queries or technical issues, users can email their support team.
• Phone Support: IPVanish stands out by offering phone support, a rare feature in the VPN industry.
• Help Center: An online portal with extensive FAQs and guides to address common issues.

Hide My Ass (HMA) also provides a variety of support options:

• 24/7 Live Chat: Immediate resolution for most problems.
• Email Support: Users can submit tickets for detailed inquiries.
• Community Forums: A space where users discuss issues and share solutions.
• Support Portal: Includes FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and product tutorials.

Quality and Responsiveness of Customer Support

When comparing the responsiveness and efficiency of support teams, IPVanish consistently ranks high for its quick resolution times and knowledgeable staff.

• IPVanish Live Chat: Queries are typically resolved within a few minutes, and the agents are well-trained in handling both technical and billing-related questions.
• Email and Phone Support: Phone support provides a unique advantage for urgent issues, available during U.S. business hours. Email responses arrive within 12-24 hours, depending on the complexity of the query.

For HMA, the customer support team also performs well, but with minor drawbacks:

• HMA Live Chat: Generally efficient, but users occasionally report delays during high-traffic times in New Zealand.
• Email Support: Response times are slightly slower than IPVanish, averaging 24-48 hours.
• Forums: While helpful, the forums rely heavily on user contributions, making it less reliable for urgent or complex problems.

Availability of Self-Help Resources

Both providers offer robust self-help resources to empower users to troubleshoot independently:

• IPVanish:
  • Detailed setup guides covering various devices (e.g., Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and routers).
  • An FAQ section addressing both basic and advanced topics like split tunneling and DNS configuration.
  • Video tutorials for visual learners.
• HMA:
  • A rich knowledge base with step-by-step instructions.
  • Tutorials for using HMA’s proprietary features like IP shuffling and Smart Kill Switch.
  • Video guides, although less extensive compared to IPVanish.

Verdict on Customer Support

While both VPNs excel in customer service, IPVanish edges out HMA with its faster response times, the rare inclusion of phone support, and an extensive library of self-help resources. HMA still remains a solid choice, particularly for users who value community forums as part of their support ecosystem.

User Feedback and Reviews

Overview of User Ratings from Trusted Platforms

To evaluate the performance and user satisfaction of IPVanish and Hide My Ass (HMA), data was gathered from trusted review platforms such as Trustpilot, Reddit, PCMag, and Capterra. These sources offer insights into user experiences, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

• IPVanish:
  • Trustpilot: IPVanish scores a solid 4.1/5 from over 6,000 reviews. Users praise its speed, intuitive interface, and compatibility with various devices.
  • Reddit Discussions: The platform’s no-logs policy is often highlighted as a standout feature. However, users occasionally express concerns about server availability during peak hours.
• Hide My Ass (HMA):
  • Trustpilot: HMA achieves a score of 3.5/5, with mixed feedback from its user base.
  • Reddit: While its extensive server network impresses users, recurring concerns are raised about its lack of transparency and alleged connection logs.

Positive Highlights and Common Complaints

• IPVanish:

  • Pros:
    • Fast speeds suitable for streaming and gaming.
    • Strong security features, including AES-256 encryption and a kill switch.
    • Excellent customer support with 24/7 live chat.
  • Cons:
    • Occasionally inconsistent server performance.
    • Limited server count (2,200 servers in 75+ locations) compared to competitors.

• Hide My Ass (HMA):

  • Pros:
    • Vast server network spanning over 1,000 servers in 210+ countries, making it one of the most geographically diverse VPNs.
    • User-friendly interface, ideal for beginners.
  • Cons:
    • Concerns over privacy, particularly after previous reports of collaboration with law enforcement.
    • Slower speeds compared to IPVanish and other leading VPNs.

Key Takeaway

User reviews provide a clear picture: IPVanish is often chosen for its robust security and streaming capabilities, while HMA appeals to those seeking a global server network and simplicity. Both services have their merits, but IPVanish appears to cater better to privacy-focused users, while HMA is suited for general browsing and location flexibility.

Pros and Cons

IPVanish

Strengths

• Fast Speeds: IPVanish offers some of the fastest speeds among VPNs, making it ideal for streaming 4K content and online gaming without buffering or lag. Tests show speeds averaging 477.5 Mbps.
• Unlimited Device Connections: Unlike most VPNs, IPVanish allows unlimited simultaneous connections, a significant advantage for households with multiple devices.
• Extensive Server Network: IPVanish owns and operates 90% of its hardware, ensuring better control and enhanced security. It also boasts approximately 2,000 servers.
• Strong Security Features: It utilizes AES-256 encryption, WireGuard, OpenVPN, and other robust protocols. The service also includes a kill-switch, split-tunneling, and an obfuscation feature to bypass VPN blocks.
• Cost-Effective Long-Term Plans: Annual subscriptions start at $3.99/month, making it more affordable than many competitors over the long term.
• Verified No-Logs Policy: Audited by Leviathan Security, IPVanish maintains a strict no-logs policy, addressing previous controversies.

Weaknesses

• U.S. Jurisdiction: Based in the U.S., a Five Eyes country, which may deter highly privacy-conscious users despite its no-logs policy.
• High Renewal Rates: After the first term, prices increase significantly, with annual plans rising to at least $7.50/month.
• Lack of Cryptocurrency Payments: IPVanish does not support anonymous payment options like Bitcoin, potentially deterring users seeking maximum privacy.

Hide My Ass (HMA)

Strengths

• Global Server Coverage: HMA has servers in over 210 countries, including unique locations such as Papua New Guinea and the Falkland Islands, making it highly versatile for global connectivity.
• User-Friendly Interface: Its apps are intuitive, catering to beginners while still offering features like IP shuffle for enhanced anonymity.
• Streaming Access: Supports major platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, with solid performance for bypassing geo-restrictions.
• Independent No-Logs Audit: VerSprite has verified HMA’s adherence to its no-logs policy, ensuring data privacy.
• Affordable Long-Term Plans: Three-year plans cost as low as $2.99/month, offering budget-friendly options.

Weaknesses

• Inconsistent Features Across Platforms: Critical functionalities like the kill-switch and split-tunneling are unavailable on iOS, limiting utility for Apple users.
• Limited Simultaneous Connections: Allows only 5 or 10 device connections depending on the plan, which falls short compared to IPVanish’s unlimited offering.
• DNS Lookup Delays: Slower DNS lookup times can cause noticeable lag when loading web pages.
• Higher Monthly Pricing: Short-term plans are priced higher at $4.99/month for basic connections.
• UK Jurisdiction: Operating out of the UK, another Five Eyes country, may raise concerns for privacy advocates.

Use Case Scenarios: IPVanish vs Hide My Ass (HMA)

Best for Streaming Enthusiasts

IPVanish excels in streaming performance with features tailored for bypassing geo-restrictions, such as its ability to unblock platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ in multiple regions. Its high-speed servers, particularly in the United States and Europe, ensure buffer-free streaming with minimal latency. Hide My Ass also offers streaming support with its specialized streaming servers, optimized for accessing services like BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video. However, users may occasionally encounter issues with stability or accessing certain libraries due to stricter regional blocks.

Best for Privacy-Focused Users

When it comes to privacy, IPVanish stands out with its strict no-logs policy, independently audited for transparency, and robust encryption protocols like AES-256. Owned by Ziff Davis, a U.S.-based company, IPVanish implements measures to protect user data despite being under the jurisdiction of the Five Eyes alliance. Hide My Ass, on the other hand, operates under Avast (a Czech company) but retains some log retention practices in New Zealand, such as connection timestamps, which may concern privacy-focused users. While HMA employs OpenVPN and other secure protocols, its privacy approach may not match the rigor of IPVanish.

Best for Budget-Conscious Users

For users mindful of their budget, Hide My Ass offers competitive pricing, with long-term plans starting at approximately $2.99 per month when billed annually, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious users. IPVanish, though slightly more expensive, offers added value through features like unlimited simultaneous device connections and a free encrypted storage option. Its pricing starts at around $3.99 per month for annual subscriptions, reflecting its premium positioning with broader device compatibility and advanced features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which VPN is faster: IPVanish or HMA?

IPVanish is widely regarded as the faster VPN between the two, particularly for users prioritizing speed for activities like streaming, torrenting, or gaming. IPVanish’s extensive server network, which includes over 2,000 servers in 75+ locations globally, ensures low latency and high bandwidth. Speed tests in 2025 have shown that IPVanish consistently delivers download speeds exceeding 200 Mbps on optimized servers, while HMA, despite having a larger network of 1,040+ servers in 210+ countries, often falls slightly behind due to higher latency and variable server performance in specific regions.

2. Is HMA’s logging policy truly secure?

HMA operates under a no-logs policy, as verified by Avast’s ownership. However, its history raises some concerns for privacy enthusiasts. HMA was involved in a 2011 incident where data was handed over to law enforcement during a criminal investigation. Despite the revamped logging policy post-2016, which claims not to store activity logs, some users remain cautious about its trustworthiness in New Zealand. Comparatively, IPVanish boasts a strict no-logs policy, audited and verified in recent years, giving it an edge for those who prioritize complete anonymity.

3. Can IPVanish unblock streaming platforms better than HMA?

IPVanish excels in unblocking popular streaming platforms such as Netflix (US, UK, and more), Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. Its ability to bypass regional restrictions is attributed to advanced server configurations optimized for streaming. In contrast, HMA has mixed results, successfully unblocking some Netflix libraries but struggling with others like Hulu and Disney+. IPVanish’s inclusion of unlimited simultaneous connections also makes it more appealing for families or multi-device users streaming simultaneously.

4. Are both VPNs suitable for gaming?

Both IPVanish and HMA are suitable for gaming, but their performance differs slightly. IPVanish, with its faster speeds and lower ping times, is the preferred choice for competitive gamers. It ensures smoother gameplay, especially in latency-sensitive games like first-person shooters or real-time strategy titles. HMA is also functional for gaming but may experience occasional lag due to its higher latency on distant servers. Additionally, IPVanish’s ability to reduce packet loss makes it a stronger contender for a seamless gaming experience.

Conclusion

Summary of Major Findings

Through our comparison of IPVanish and Hide My Ass (HMA) VPNs, both services cater to different user needs with their unique offerings. IPVanish excels in speed, device compatibility, and a strict no-logs policy. It has a robust infrastructure featuring over 2,200 servers in 75+ locations, making it ideal for users focused on high-speed browsing, gaming, and torrenting. In contrast, HMA, with its vast network of 1,040+ servers spanning 210 countries, is more suitable for users prioritizing global accessibility and simplicity, particularly for bypassing geo-restrictions.

Recommendations Based on User Intent

• For Privacy Enthusiasts
  IPVanish is the better choice due to its independently verified no-logs policy, end-to-end encryption, and advanced features like split tunneling and SOCKS5 proxy. Its jurisdiction in the United States, while a concern for some, is mitigated by its strong data protection measures.
• For Streaming and Geo-Unblocking
  HMA leads in this area with its exceptional server distribution and dedicated streaming servers. Users looking to access platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Hulu from different countries may find HMA more effective due to its specialized features like IP shuffling.
• For Budget-Conscious Users
  IPVanish offers competitive pricing with a free antivirus feature included in its plans, providing more value for money. Meanwhile, HMA’s pricing is higher, although it occasionally offers multi-year discounts.

Final Verdict

Choosing between IPVanish and Hide My Ass boils down to personal preferences. Privacy-focused users with a need for speed should opt for IPVanish, while those prioritizing extensive global coverage and ease of use may prefer HMA.