Encrypt.me vs HideMyAss

Encrypt.me, founded in 2011 and based in Seattle, Washington, was a security-focused VPN service designed to protect users on both private and public Wi-Fi networks. They offered strong encryption, Auto-Secure (kill switch), split tunneling for Android, and dedicated IP options for families and teams. Their unlimited device connections made them a flexible choice for individuals and businesses alike. While Encrypt.me was easy to use and had a transparent policy, it had some drawbacks. Being based in the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance also raised privacy concerns. Pricing was flexible, offering one-time passes (weekly, monthly, yearly) and recurring subscriptions (monthly or annual plans). They also provided family and team plans for multiple users. A 14-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee allowed users to test the service risk-free. In 2021, Encrypt.me merged with StrongVPN, discontinuing their standalone service. Users were transitioned to StrongVPN, which retained some of Encrypt.me’s features while expanding their global reach and security options.

HideMyAss (HMA) VPN, founded in 2005 and headquartered in the United Kingdom, is a well-established player in the VPN industry. Originally created to help users bypass online restrictions, HMA has grown into a comprehensive VPN provider with a global presence, offering over 1,100 servers in more than 290 locations across 190 countries. This extensive network allows users to enjoy fast, secure connections while accessing region-locked content. HMA’s standout features include military-grade AES-256 encryption, an automatic kill switch, IP shuffle for added privacy, and support for protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec. Their service also caters to multiple devices, supporting up to ten simultaneous connections on their family plans and offering scalable business solutions. Customer feedback is mixed, with users praising HMA’s ease of use, broad server network, and reliable speeds, while some raise concerns about occasional connection stability and customer support. HMA’s no-logs policy, independently audited, ensures that user activity remains private, even in its UK jurisdiction. Additionally, HMA provides valuable privacy tools like IP checker, WebRTC test, and DDoS protection. Overall, HMA appeals to users seeking a user-friendly VPN solution with broad server coverage, privacy-focused features, and flexible plans for both individuals and businesses. Read on to explore their full offerings.