Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
X-VPN and Astrill are both VPN services with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. X-VPN, based in Hong Kong, offers a lower price point, with the cheapest plan at $4.79 per month for a 12-month subscription. It also boasts a large server network of over 8,000 servers across 65 countries. However, it does not adhere to a no-logging policy and does not offer an ad-blocking feature. Astrill, on the other hand, is based in Seychelles and offers a no-logging policy and an ad-blocking feature. It has a smaller server network with 115 servers across 57 countries, and its cheapest plan is priced at $8.29 per month. Both VPNs offer AES-256 encryption, similar protocols, and 24/7 customer support. While X-VPN scores higher in overall ratings (67.5% compared to Astrill’s 47.5%), the choice between the two depends on the user’s specific needs and priorities.
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 Astrill
| VPN Company | X-VPN | Astrill |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Hong Kong | Seychelles |
| Cheapest Price | $4.79/mo over 12-month subscription | $8.29/mo |
| Monthly Price | $11.99 | $30.00 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | – days |
| No Logging Policy? | No | No |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| Protocols | L2TP/IPSec, OpenVPN, Everest Protocol | OpenVPN, StealthVPN, OpenWeb, Wireguard, and Proprietary |
| Servers | 8,000 | 115 |
| Servers Countries | 65 | 57 |
| 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 | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | No | Yes |
| Third Party Audit | – | 0 |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat & Email | 24/7 Live Chat, and Email |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Disney+, Netflix, and Hulu |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: X-VPN Better
X-VPN presents an affordable price point at $4.79/mo and $11.99/mo for annual and monthly subscription. In comparison, Astrill opts for a premium pricing strategy*: $8.29/mo for 24-month subscription and $30.00/mo for monthly plan.
This price difference leads to an intriguing evaluation of the additional value Astrill offers. Boasting military-grade encryption (AES-256), 24/7 Live Chat, and Email support, and a global network of 115 servers in 57 countries, Astrill aims to justify its higher cost. Yet, when compared to X-VPN’s offer, the question remains: Do these enhanced features justify the extra cost?
Astrill Plans
X-VPN Plans
Jurisdiction: Astrill Better
The headquarters location of a VPN company is not just a geographical factor but a pivotal aspect that defines the legal framework within which a VPN operates.
Different countries have varying regulations regarding data retention, surveillance, and the extent to which government authorities can demand access to user data. For instance, companies based in countries that are part of the 14 Eyes surveillance alliance might be legally obligated to collect and share user data with government agencies. Conversely, a VPN company headquartered in a country with strong privacy laws and no mandatory data retention requirements (ie. Panama, British Virgin Islands, etc) can offer greater assurances of user privacy and data security.
Based in Hong Kong and Seychelles, both X-VPN and Astrill offer the significant advantage of being based outside the 14-Eye Alliance*. Both VPNs are not legally obligated to collect and share user data with (especially European and America) government agencies.
However, Hong Kong has undergone significant changes under the influence of China and its legal system, particularly since the implementation of the National Security Law in 2020. This law’s ambiguous nature allows for wide-ranging interpretations and enables authorities to potentially access personal data and monitor online activities more intrusively. Furthermore, the legal integration with mainland China means that data collected in Hong Kong could be subject to China’s stringent cybersecurity laws, which include mandatory data retention and sharing with government authorities.
In contrast, Seychelles comes with strong privacy regulation and less intrusive data retention laws; and therefore, allows Astrill to offer a lower risk of government-led surveillance and higher degree of user privacy. Hence, for those dealing with sensitive data or in strict online environments, Astrill represents a safer choice.
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage: X-VPN Better
The server fleet size of X-VPN and Astrill 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, Astrill maintains a more modest server presence, with only 115 servers across 57 countries. If you live in regions with fewer servers from Astrill, 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.
No Logging Policy: Astrill Better
There is a significant difference in user privacy and data security whencomparing the two VPN companies’ no-logging policty. Astrill’s no-log policy ensures that users’ online activities, including browsing history, IP addresses, and bandwidth usage, are not recorded; thereby offering a higher level of privacy and security. In comparison, X-VPN does not adhere to a no-logging policy. This implies that the company might retain certain records of user activities, a matter of considerable concern for individuals who prioritize anonymity and data security.
For users who prioritize robust privacy standards and seek external verification of security claims, these distinctions may prove pivotal in selecting the most suitable VPN service.
Money Back Guarantee: Tie
Both X-VPN and Astrill 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 Astrill – 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.
Ad Blocking Feature: Astrill Better
A notable difference between X-VPN and Astrill lies in their additional features – particularly blocking unwanted advertisement. Astrill offers an integrated ad blocker, enhancing the browsing experience by eliminating unwanted ads and potentially harmful malware. On the other hand, X-VPN does not come with an ad blocking feature, which might be a drawback for users who prioritize a clean and uninterrupted browsing experience.
Bottomline
In conclusion, X-VPN’s affordable price, extensive server network, and robust features make it an ideal choice for users prioritizing cost-effectiveness and broad geographical coverage. However, for those seeking higher privacy standards and ad-blocking functionality, Astrill’s robust no-logging policy and integrated ad-blocker provide compelling advantages.
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 Astrill 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 & Astrill
Astrill
Astrill VPN was established in 2009, focusing on providing VPN services for home users and travelers. It’s a registered company in Liechtenstein, designed to offer encrypted and unrestricted Internet access.
To learn more, read our Astrill 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.