Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
X-VPN and Hotspot Shield are two VPN services that offer different features and functionalities. X-VPN, based in Hong Kong, scores higher in the overall ratings at 67.5%, compared to Hotspot Shield’s 47.9%. X-VPN offers a cheaper price at $4.79/mo over a 12-month subscription, in contrast to Hotspot Shield’s $7.99/mo. Both VPNs do not have a logging policy and utilize AES-256 encryption. X-VPN supports more protocols and has a larger server network with 8,000 servers in 65 countries. Hotspot Shield, however, allows more simultaneous connections (10 devices) and offers split tunneling. From a user’s perspective, X-VPN seems to be the better choice due to its higher ratings, lower cost, and larger server network.
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 Hotspot Shield
| VPN Company | X-VPN | Hotspot Shield |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Hong Kong | United States |
| Cheapest Price | $4.79/mo over 12-month subscription | $7.99/mo |
| Monthly Price | $11.99 | $12.99 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 45 days |
| No Logging Policy? | No | No |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| Protocols | L2TP/IPSec, OpenVPN, Everest Protocol | Hydra, IPSec, and OpenVPN |
| Servers | 8,000 | 3,200 |
| Servers Countries | 65 | 80 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 5 devices | 10 devices |
| Works in China? | Unlikely | Partially |
| Smart DNS | No | No |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extension | Yes | Yes |
| Double VPN | No | No |
| Ads Blocking | No | No |
| Split Tunneling | No | Yes |
| Third Party Audit | – | 0 |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat & Email | 24/7 Live Chat |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO |
| 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, Hotspot Shield opts for a premium pricing strategy*: $7.99/mo for 1-month subscription and $12.99/mo for monthly plan.
This price difference leads to an intriguing evaluation of the additional value Hotspot Shield offers. Boasting military-grade encryption (AES-256), 24/7 Live Chat support, and a global network of 3,200 servers in 80 countries, Hotspot Shield 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?
Hotspot Shield Plans
X-VPN Plans
Jurisdiction: X-VPN Slightly Better
Comparing Hong Kong-based X-VPN and United States-based Hotspot Shield 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, United States is part of an intelligence-sharing alliance (the 14-Eye). Companies based in United States (ie. Hotspot Shield) 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 | Hotspot Shield |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Hotspot Shield 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, Hotspot Shield maintains a more modest server presence, with only 3,200 servers across 80 countries. If you live in regions with fewer servers from Hotspot Shield, 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: Hotspot Shield Better
There is a significant difference in user privacy and data security whencomparing the two VPN companies’ no-logging policty. Hotspot Shield’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 Hotspot Shield 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 Hotspot Shield – 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 summary, X-VPN, with its affordable pricing and vast server network, is a suitable choice for users seeking a cost-effective solution with extensive geographic coverage. Conversely, Hotspot Shield, despite its higher cost, offers a robust no-logging policy and a slightly longer money-back guarantee, making it a better fit for individuals prioritizing data security and privacy.
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 Hotspot Shield 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 & Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield
Founded in 2008, Hotspot Shield is one of the more well-known VPN services. It was created by AnchorFree, Inc., and is currently part of Pango, a larger cybersecurity firm. Headquartered in the United States, Hotspot Shield is known for its high-speed connections and strong encryption. It offers a free version and a premium service, catering to a wide range of devices and platforms.
To learn more, read our Hotspot Shield 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.