Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
In comparing X-VPN and McAfee Safe Connect, several key factors emerge. X-VPN, with a rating of 67.5%, outperforms McAfee Safe Connect, which scores only 18.4%. Both VPNs offer similar pricing, with X-VPN costing $4.79/month for a 12-month subscription, and McAfee Safe Connect available for $3.33/month. Both are based in countries with privacy concerns – X-VPN in Hong Kong, and McAfee Safe Connect in the United States. X-VPN provides a larger server network, with 8,000 servers in 65 countries, while McAfee Safe Connect does not state its server count, but covers 23 countries. Neither service has a logging policy, but X-VPN offers a kill switch feature, which McAfee Safe Connect lacks. X-VPN also unblocks more streaming platforms. Given these factors, X-VPN appears to be a more comprehensive and user-friendly VPN solution.
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 McAfee Safe Connect
VPN Company | X-VPN | McAfee Safe Connect |
---|---|---|
Jurisdiction Country | Hong Kong | United States |
Cheapest Price | $4.79/mo over 12-month subscription | $3.33/mo |
Monthly Price | $11.99 | $3.33 |
Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
No Logging Policy? | No | No |
Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
Protocols | L2TP/IPSec, OpenVPN, Everest Protocol | IKEv2/IPSec, OpenVPN, and WireGuard |
Servers | 8,000 | (not stated) |
Servers Countries | 65 | 23 |
Simultaneous Connections | 5 devices | 5 devices |
Works in China? | Unlikely | Unlikely |
Smart DNS | No | No |
Kill Switch | Yes | No |
Browser Extension | Yes | No |
Double VPN | No | No |
Ads Blocking | No | No |
Split Tunneling | No | No |
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 | – |
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 McAfee Safe Connect are standout choices.
McAfee Safe Connect’s service begins at $3.33/mo for 12-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.
McAfee Safe Connect Plans
X-VPN Plans
Jurisdiction: X-VPN Slightly Better
Comparing Hong Kong-based X-VPN and United States-based McAfee Safe Connect 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. McAfee Safe Connect) 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 | McAfee Safe Connect |
---|---|---|
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: Tie
The size of a VPN’s server fleet plays a crucial role in determining user experience. A larger fleet generally provides faster speeds, greater reliability, wider geographical coverage, lower latency, and potentially enhanced privacy. On the other hand, a smaller server fleet might lead to slower speeds, higher latency, limited content access, and potential privacy concerns.
Fortunately, both X-VPN and McAfee Safe Connect stand out with their extensive server networks. With X-VPN, users benefit from an expansive of 8,000 server network, facilitating connections from 65 countries. McAfee Safe Connect mirrors this capability, boasting a sizeable server fleet of (not stated) servers spread over 23 countries. The broad reach of both X-VPN and McAfee Safe Connect means that they are capable of providing dependable and swift connections for users globally and ensuring a smooth and speedy online experience
No Logging Policy: McAfee Safe Connect Better
There is a significant difference in user privacy and data security whencomparing the two VPN companies’ no-logging policty. McAfee Safe Connect’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 McAfee Safe Connect 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 McAfee Safe Connect – 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.
Unblock Streaming Platforms: X-VPN Better
X-VPN excels in bypassing geo-restrictions on most streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. This allows its users to consistently enjoy their preferred shows and movies from virtually any location.
Conversely, McAfee Safe Connect faces challenges when it comes to this aspect. Despite having servers in 23 countries, McAfee Safe Connect struggles to bypass the geo-blocks imposed by major streaming platforms. This limitation is of paramount importance for users who prioritize seamless access to streaming content and are in search of a VPN service capable of effectively circumventing geo-restrictions.
Kill Switch Feature: X-VPN Better
The presence of a kill switch in a VPN service is a critical factor for many users. X-VPN includes this feature, which automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing data leaks. Conversely, McAfee Safe Connect, lacking a kill switch, might pose a risk for users who require uninterrupted protection, especially in unstable network environments. This contrast in security offerings is vital for users who prioritize their online privacy and data security.
Bottomline
In conclusion, X-VPN and McAfee Safe Connect both offer unique features and services that cater to different user needs. For those prioritizing privacy and streaming capabilities, X-VPN might be the better choice, while users who value no-log policies might lean towards McAfee Safe Connect.
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 McAfee Safe Connect 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 & McAfee Safe Connect
McAfee Safe Connect
McAfee, a well-established name in the cybersecurity industry, offers McAfee Safe Connect VPN. Founded in 1987 by John McAfee, the company is headquartered in San Jose, California, USA. McAfee Safe Connect VPN focuses on providing secure Wi-Fi connections and protecting user privacy. The service is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.
To learn more, read our McAfee Safe Connect 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.