VPN · Head to head
Hotspot Shield vs IVPN: which is better?
Short answer
IVPN costs less in the first year ($95.88 vs $60). Pick Hotspot Shield for VPN with a limited free plan; pick IVPN for audited no-logs VPN with anonymous signup.
| Fact | Hotspot Shield | IVPN | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | VPN with a limited free plan | Audited no-logs VPN with anonymous signup | — |
| Free plan | Yes, 2 Mbps, 500 MB daily, 1 location | No | Hotspot Shield |
| Entry plan | Premium: $7.99 / mo | Standard: $60 / yr | IVPN |
| Mid plan | Premium Family: $11.99 / mo | Pro: $80 / yr | IVPN |
| Top plan | Premium Family: $11.99 / mo | Pro Complete: $100 / yr | IVPN |
| 1st year | $95.88 | $60 | IVPN |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome extension | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Tie |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Hotspot Shield or IVPN?
IVPN costs less in the first year ($95.88 vs $60).
| 1st year | Hotspot Shield | IVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $95.88 | $60 |
| Mid | $143.88 | $80 |
| Top | $143.88 | $100 |
Which has the better free plan, Hotspot Shield or IVPN?
Hotspot Shield: Yes, 2 Mbps, 500 MB daily, 1 location.
Should you pick Hotspot Shield or IVPN?
Pick Hotspot Shield if
- you want VPN with a limited free plan
- the free plan is enough (2 Mbps, 500 MB daily, 1 location)
Pick IVPN if
- you want audited no-logs VPN with anonymous signup
- you can pay $60 / yr from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Hotspot Shield pricing | hotspotshield.com/select-plan/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
| IVPN pricing | ivpn.net/en/pricing/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare