We put these VPNs to the test to find out which is the best!
Both PureVPN and HideMyAss have adequate speeds, but nothing like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and others. With that said, they are still perfectly fine for streaming and large downloads, although HideMyAss performs slightly better all-around.
| VPN vendor |
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|---|---|---|
| Download speed reduction | 35% (UK) | 40% (UK) |
| Upload speed reduction | 36% (FRA) | 37% (FRA) |
| Ping time to google.com | 320.13ms | 41ms |
| Average time to connect (sec.) | 23ms | 11ms |
| Unblock successful for |
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| Visit Site | Visit Site |
Speed determines how fast content uploads, so if you're torrenting or streaming, you want the speed to be somewhat identical to your regular internet speed. Since a VPN encrypts your data, it usually takes a bit longer to send your data back and forth, which can slow down your connection. However, if your ISP deliberately slows down your connection (also known as throttling) a VPN might increase your internet speed. Testing a VPN is somewhat pointless because new servers pop up and affect speed. Your speed can also differ according to your location, so your speed test might not match ours. Having said that, we tested the speed in numerous locations to provide you with the average.
In terms of server choices, HideMyAss is hard to beat, offering 900 locations spread throughout 190 different countries, giving users a ton of choices. PureVPN is one of the better VPNs in this aspect as well, with servers located in over 140 countries. Both of these VPNs make unblocking content and platforms much easier.
| VPN vendor |
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Server Locations | 280 | 180 |
| Server Countries | 190 | 141 |
| IP Addresses | 3479 | 750 |
| Dynamic Server Switching | ||
| Visit Site | Visit Site |
The ratio of servers to countries is an important factor to look at when choosing a VPN. Only paying attention to location or number of servers can get you in trouble. More servers generally means faster speeds, but if VPN X has a few more servers than VPN Y but twice as many users, VPN X will typically have slower speeds. Ideally, you want a VPN that has a lot of servers in every location. This way you won’t have to worry that server/country that you want will be overburdened and running slow.
Both PureVPN and HideMyAss have a big emphasis on customer support. Between PureVPN’s website and their 24/7 live chat, you’ve always got fast help at your disposal when any issues arise. HideMyAss gives users email support, 24/7 chat, a huge knowledge base, and helpful video tutorials, which new users will appreciate.
| VPN vendor |
|
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|---|---|---|
| Email Response Time | 0.1 | 7 |
| 24/7 Support | ||
| Live Chat | ||
| Knowledge Base | ||
| Video Tutorials | ||
| Visit Site | Visit Site |
We personally test the customer support team of every VPN we review. This means asking technical question through the live chat feature (where applicable) and measuring the response time for email questions. Whether you need to connect to a specific server, change your security protocol, or configure a VPN on your router, finding a VPN with quality customer support should be important to you.
We have to give credit where it’s due — HideMyAss delivers an enjoyable user experience from start to finish, all in a playful, casual manner. This is true for all the platforms it’s available on.
There are no complications to speak of when it comes to installation and setup. The GUI is intuitive, with all settings and preferences being exactly where you’d expect them to be.
When you open the HideMyAss application, you’ll come across three primary modes. These modes consist of an auto-connect option, a comprehensive server list spanning the globe, and a unique feature that conveniently connects you to the closest server in a country without restrictions. This particular feature sets HideMyAss apart, as it’s not commonly found in other VPN services.
HideMyAss can unblock content on Netflix, Hulu, BBC Player, YouTube, and more. It also bypasses China’s firewall.
PureVPN app is easy enough to be used by novice VPN users and offers enough settings to appeal to a seasoned player. The basic interface is simple and you just have to select a server and click on Connect. The default protocol is automatic but you can pick another option from the list. There are some tabs that let users change the settings and customize the app according to their needs.
PureVPN has apps for all major platforms, and has browser extensions as well. There is a large selection of servers and special servers for online streaming, sports streaming, anonymous file sharing, and data retention security. Or you can just connect to the fastest server of a particular country.
PureVPN works on mobile devices, and is generally successful accessing Netflix and Hulu, and definitely works in China.
