Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
The comparison between X-VPN and AirVPN reveals distinct differences. X-VPN, based in Hong Kong, has an overall rating of 67.5%, while Italy-based AirVPN scores 39.1%. X-VPN’s monthly cost is higher ($11.99) compared to AirVPN’s $7.66, but offers a cheaper 12-month subscription. Both VPNs offer 30-day money-back guarantees. X-VPN does not have a no-logging policy, unlike AirVPN. Both use AES-256 encryption, but AirVPN also offers ChaCha20. X-VPN has a larger server count (8000 servers in 65 countries) compared to AirVPN’s 200 servers in 23 countries. Both allow five simultaneous connections. X-VPN is less likely to work in China, does not offer split tunneling, but has a browser extension. Both lack smart DNS, double VPN, and ad blocking. X-VPN is the better choice for users seeking a larger server network and cheaper long-term subscription, but those prioritizing a no-logging policy and split tunneling might prefer AirVPN.
About Our VPN Rating Systems
Our reviews delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Ratings are based on our comprehensive research of 96 VPN companies. Out of 96 VPNs we reviewed, only 11 surpass the 75% threshold in our evaluation, while half of the reviewed services score below average (54.1%).
Why Read Our VPN Guide?
- Our VPN reviews are unbiased and data-driven. We are not affiliated to any of the VPN companies listed on this website.
- Our rating system covers diverse user needs. We delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Specifications: X-VPN vs AirVPN
| VPN Company | X-VPN | AirVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Hong Kong | Italy |
| Cheapest Price | $4.79/mo over 12-month subscription | $1.96/mo |
| Monthly Price | $11.99 | $7.66 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| No Logging Policy? | No | Yes |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256, and ChaCha20 |
| Protocols | L2TP/IPSec, OpenVPN, Everest Protocol | Open VPN, WireGuard, and SSL VPN |
| Servers | 8,000 | 200 |
| Servers Countries | 65 | 23 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 5 devices | 5 devices |
| Works in China? | Unlikely | Likely |
| Smart DNS | No | No |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extension | Yes | No |
| Double VPN | No | No |
| Ads Blocking | No | No |
| Split Tunneling | No | Yes |
| Third Party Audit | – | 0 |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat & Email | Email, and Ticketing |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Disney+, and Hulu |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: Tie
For those on the hunt for a VPN that delivers both in terms of value and functionality, X-VPN and AirVPN are standout choices.
AirVPN’s service begins at $1.96/mo for 36-month subscription. X-VPN costs $11.99 a month when you subscribe on month-by-month basis and costs just $4.79 per month when you go with annual subscription.
AirVPN Plans
X-VPN Plans
Jurisdiction: X-VPN Slightly Better
Comparing Hong Kong-based X-VPN and Italy-based AirVPN reveals significant privacy differences due to their different legal and surveillance environments.
Hong Kong, despite being a special administrative region of China, has its own legal system and offers a degree of internet freedom and privacy protection. Though, recent political changes and the imposition of new security laws have raised concerns about user privacy in the city.
On the other hand, Italy is part of an intelligence-sharing alliance (the 14-Eye). Companies based in Italy (ie. AirVPN) might face legal pressures to surrender user data to the government and its alliance members. This surveillance culture not only compromises personal privacy but also raises concerns about digital security, particularly with the push for encryption backdoors.
All in all, while Hong Kong-based X-VPN offered a slightly higher degree of privacy, changing political dynamics have blurred this advantage and placed them closer to the surveillance realities faced by VPNs in 14-Eyes countries. Hence, for those dealing with sensitive data and need maximum online privacy, you might want to look beyond these two VPNs.
| Aspect | X-VPN | AirVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction and Data Laws | Previously more privacy-friendly, but changing due to new security laws | Subject to extensive surveillance laws |
| Data Retention Policies | Potentially less stringent | Often more stringent due to legal requirements |
| Anonymity and User Information | Traditionally higher, depending on the company’s policy | Potentially lower due to regulatory requirements |
| Legal Obligations to Respond to Warrants | Increasingly complex and uncertain | More straightforward and often legally obligated |
| Global Surveillance Concerns | Growing concerns due to political changes | High due to intelligence-sharing agreements |
More About the 14-Eyes Alliance and Its Privacy Implications
The 14-Eyes Alliance, an expansion of the Five- and Nine-Eyes intelligence collaborations, includes countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and several European nations. These member states are known for their extensive surveillance activities, as highlighted by disclosures from figures like Edward Snowden (watch video below). Such surveillance extends to the sharing of collected data among member countries.
The presence of a VPN provider in a 14-Eyes country could mean legal obligations to surrender user data to government entities, with the potential for this data to circulate among the alliance members. This surveillance culture not only compromises personal privacy but also raises concerns about digital security.
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage: X-VPN Better
The server fleet size of X-VPN and AirVPN is a critical aspect where these two VPN providers diverge significantly. X-VPN stands out with its impressive network, hosting over 8,000 servers worldwide. This extensive coverage ensures that users almost anywhere can find a reliable and fast server connection.
In contrast, AirVPN maintains a more modest server presence, with only 200 servers across 23 countries. If you live in regions with fewer servers from AirVPN, this might translate to slower speeds and potentially less stable connections. The vast server network of X-VPN not only provides broader geographic reach but also typically allows for better performance and lower latency.
Why the Number of VPN Servers Matter?
The size of a VPN’s server fleet significantly impacts user experience in several key areas.
Firstly, a larger server network ensures a more evenly distributed user load, which translates to faster internet speeds and reduced risk of server overload. This is crucial for maintaining high-speed connections, especially important for streaming, downloading, and browsing. In contrast, a smaller server fleet might face challenges handling high traffic volumes – which often leads to slower speeds and longer connection times. Additionally, extensive server coverage offers users a wider choice of geographical locations, enhancing the ability to bypass geo-restrictions and access diverse content.
Additionally, extensive server coverage offers users a wider choice of geographical locations, enhancing the ability to bypass geo-restrictions and access diverse content. From a privacy standpoint, a larger server fleet can offer better anonymity, as user activities are dispersed across more servers, reducing the likelihood of tracking and data breaches.
Money Back Guarantee: Tie
Both X-VPN and AirVPN reassures its users with a lengthy money-back guarantee*, allowing ample time to test their services thoroughly. These guarantees are more than just policies; they are strong indicators of the confidence that both services have in the quality they offer. This assurance provides users with a risk-free opportunity to immerse themselves in the diverse features of each VPN. From the vast server network of X-VPN to the advanced security protocols of AirVPN – you have the liberty to thoroughly evaluate each service before deciding on a long-term investment.
* According to our market study, the average money-back guarantee period in the industry is approximately 25.68 days.
Bottomline
In conclusion, users prioritizing extensive server coverage, superior performance, and a higher degree of privacy should consider X-VPN, while those seeking a budget-friendly option with advanced security protocols and no logging policy might find AirVPN more suitable. Remember, the best VPN service is subjective and depends on individual user requirements, so make sure to assess your unique needs before making a decision.
Pick What You Need
Our VPN recommendations and ratings are just a general guide and may not match your personal needs. Know what you need and pick a VPN that fits. It’s crucial to assess your personal requirements, whether it’s enhanced security, better privacy, faster speeds, or access to specific content. Use ourX-VPN and AirVPN comparison as a starting point, but ultimately, select a VPN that aligns with your unique needs. This approach ensures you get the most out of your VPN service.
About X-VPN & AirVPN
AirVPN
AirVPN, operated by activists committed to net neutrality, privacy, and anti-censorship, uses OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols. It offers strong encryption, no monitoring or logging of online activities, and circumvents censorship and georestrictions. AirVPN provides unlimited bandwidth and server switches, high-performance servers in multiple countries, and compliance with European Union privacy laws. Their service allows five simultaneous connections per account, and they offer port forwarding and optional block lists for enhanced security.
To learn more, read our AirVPN review.
X-VPN
X-VPN is a virtual private network (VPN) company established in 2017. It was founded by Daniel Lee who has over 10 years of experience in the internet and security industry. The company headquarters is based in the Hong Kong, but it has operations worldwide. X-VPN provides a secure and private internet browsing experience for its users while preserving their anonymity and data privacy. X-VPN offers different subscription plans. The cheapest plan starts at $4.79/mo and require a 12-month commitment.
To learn more, read our X-VPN review.