RapidVPN: Dedicated Servers for Superior VPN Performance
Content
In today’s digital landscape, online privacy and security are paramount. Whether browsing the web, streaming content, or conducting business, users increasingly rely on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to safeguard their data and maintain anonymity. Among the myriad of VPN providers available, RapidVPN has carved out a niche by offering dedicated servers for high-speed and secure connections.
With over 13 years in the VPN industry, this UK-based provider prioritizes speed, security, and reliability. Despite having a smaller number of servers than leading competitors, they maintain a strong presence in key regions, including the US, UK, Sweden, Canada, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Germany.
But how well does this VPN perform in practice? Can they truly deliver fast speeds, strong security, and a seamless online experience? This detailed review will give you all the information to find out.
Please note that RapidVPN does not have a website at this time, and the information in this review is based on details available through their app and other online sources.
Pros
Cons
Content
Quick Stats
Company Overview
Established in 2007, RapidVPN has built a reputation for providing secure and high-speed VPN services. Unlike many mainstream providers that focus on vast server networks, they emphasize quality over quantity by offering dedicated servers that ensure faster and more stable connections.
RapidVPN caters to a diverse user base, including individuals seeking online anonymity and secure browsing, businesses requiring reliable remote access, and users aiming to bypass geo-restrictions to access international content. Its operations are focused on North America and Europe, making it particularly well-suited for users in these regions. However, its server network may be less ideal for those requiring extensive coverage in Asia, Africa, or South America.
The provider distinguishes itself with a range of features designed to enhance security and usability. These include dedicated IP VPNs for improved speed, reliability, and reduced risk of blacklisting, along with support for multiple VPN protocols such as OpenVPN, L2TP, and SoftEther, allowing users to balance security and performance. RapidVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, safeguarding user privacy, and offers unlimited bandwidth to ensure unrestricted browsing, streaming, and downloading. For those interested in secure file-sharing, the service also supports P2P and torrenting on select servers.
RapidVPN has been a consistent player in the VPN market, and while they may not be the most widely recognized brand, they have built a loyal customer base over the years. However, they lack independent security audits or major industry accolades, which some users may view as a drawback.
Features & Services
RapidVPN offers a comprehensive suite of VPN features, ensuring users enjoy secure and flexible connections.
Key features:
Dedicated IP addresses: Users get a unique static IP, reducing the risk of blacklisting.
24/7 customer support: Assistance is available around the clock via email and ticketing.
Cross-platform compatibility: The service works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers.
Streaming capabilities: Certain plans unlock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Go. That said, users may experience occasional connection issues depending on the streaming service’s VPN detection measures, and not all plans guarantee full access to geo-restricted content.
Torrenting support: P2P sharing is available on select servers in the Netherlands, Sweden, and Switzerland.
VPN protocols and speed
RapidVPN supports multiple protocols, each with varying security and speed levels, among other variables:
- Protocol choice: PPTP is the fastest, but least secure. Users looking for security should opt for OpenVPN or SoftEther
- Server locations: 21 servers across 7 countries—limited compared to major VPN brands
- Speed test performance: While RapidVPN doesn’t rank among the fastest VPNs, it provides reliable speeds for streaming, gaming, and browsing. In certain locations, speeds may be lower than expected, particularly on shared servers
Security & Privacy Measures
Encryption and protocols
RapidVPN uses 128-bit encryption, which, while secure, is not as strong as the 256-bit encryption used by top providers. The supported protocols include PPTP, L2TP, SSTP, OpenVPN, and SoftEther.
SoftEther and SSTP are the best choices for bypassing geo-restrictions, especially for regions like China and the UAE.
No-logs policy
RapidVPN follows a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that user activity is not stored or tracked.The UK-based provider, however, operates in a Five Eyes alliance country, which raises some concerns regarding potential government intervention. Nevertheless, their commitment to user privacy remains strong, making them a trustworthy option for those looking to keep their online activities confidential.
Kill switch
The kill switch feature prevents data leaks if the VPN connection drops. However, users must
manually configure kill switch settings.
RAM-based servers and warrant canary
- No RAM-based servers (Data is stored on SSD drives, which may pose a privacy risk)
- No warrant canary system, meaning users are not notified of government data requests
Plans & Pricing
RapidVPN offers a range of pricing plans tailored to different user needs, each varying in cost and features. Unlike many VPN providers that offer a single plan with tiered pricing, this provider structures their services based on specific functionalities.
The Static IP VPN plan is designed for users who need a fixed location IP, ensuring stability and security for remote work, online banking, and business-related tasks. Prices for this plan vary depending on the selected region, with European servers starting at $5.90 per month and going up to $23 per month for American servers.
For users who prioritize torrenting, the Torrent VPN plan is available for $6.90 per month, providing optimized servers in Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Sweden to support peer-to-peer file sharing securely.
The Dynamic VPN plan is a unique offering that allows users to rotate between different IP addresses for enhanced anonymity. It starts at $7.20 per month, giving users access to multiple server locations while maintaining strong security protocols.
One of their standout options is the Lifetime VPN plan, which provides a permanent dedicated IP for a one-time payment of $750. This plan is targeted at users who want a long-term VPN solution without worrying about monthly or yearly renewals.
All plans come with unlimited bandwidth, multiple protocol support, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service before committing. Additionally, customers can add more simultaneous connections, but this incurs an extra fee of 40% of the subscription cost per additional connection.
Payment methods include credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies, providing flexibility for users who prefer anonymous transactions. While RapidVPN’s pricing may seem higher than some competitors, the focus on dedicated IPs and specialized VPN solutions makes it a compelling option for users with specific security and privacy needs.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
Dedicated servers for faster and more reliable connections
One of RapidVPN’s standout features is their dedicated IP servers, which provide users with a stable and uninterrupted VPN experience. Unlike shared IPs, which are used by multiple users simultaneously, dedicated IPs reduce congestion, ensuring faster speeds and lower latency. This is particularly beneficial for users who need consistent performance for streaming, gaming, and remote work. Additionally, dedicated IPs minimize the risk of being blocked by streaming services or online banking platforms, offering a more secure and seamless online experience.
Strict no-logs policy for enhanced privacy
Privacy-conscious users will appreciate RapidVPN’s strict no-logs policy, meaning they do not collect or store user activity, browsing history, or connection logs. Many VPN providers claim to have a no-logs policy, but RapidVPN explicitly states that they do not track any form of user data. This ensures complete anonymity and security, making it an excellent choice for users in restrictive regions or those concerned about surveillance.
Supports torrenting on select servers
For users who engage in peer-to-peer file sharing, RapidVPN allows torrenting on specific servers in Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Sweden. These locations are known for their privacy-friendly regulations, making them ideal for torrenting activities. Unlike some VPN providers that impose strict restrictions or outright ban P2P traffic, RapidVPN provides reliable speeds and security for downloading and sharing files. However, users should note that its torrenting server selection is limited, which may not be as versatile as other VPNs with a broader range of P2P-friendly servers.
Unblocks popular streaming platforms
One of the biggest challenges VPN users face is bypassing geo-restrictions on streaming platforms. RapidVPN successfully unlocks major streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Go, allowing users to access content from different regions. The Residential VPN and Dedicated IP plans offer the most reliable streaming access, ensuring smooth, buffer-free playback.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee for Risk-Free Testing
Another advantage of RapidVPN is their 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service without financial risk. This is especially useful for those who are uncertain about their VPN needs or want to evaluate performance before committing to a long-term subscription. Unlike some VPNs with restrictive refund policies, RapidVPN offers a full refund within the first 30 days, making them a customer-friendly option.
Disadvantages
Limited server network compared to competitors
One of RapidVPN’s biggest drawbacks is their small server network, with only 21 servers spread across seven countries (US, UK, Sweden, Canada, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Germany). While the provider focuses on quality over quantity, many leading VPNs offer thousands of servers in over 50 countries, providing greater flexibility and more connection options. This limited coverage may be a dealbreaker for users looking for a VPN with worldwide access, especially those outside North America and Europe. If server availability and global reach are a priority, users may find more suitable options elsewhere.
No RAM-based servers for extra security
Many top-tier VPN providers have transitioned to RAM-based servers, which wipe all user data upon reboot, ensuring higher security and complete data privacy. Unfortunately, RapidVPN still relies on traditional SSD storage, meaning that, theoretically, data could be stored for extended periods. While the company maintains a strict no-logs policy, the absence of RAM-based servers may be concerning for high-security users or those seeking the highest level of data protection.
Limited simultaneous connections
Another downside is that RapidVPN only allows two simultaneous connections per plan. This means that users with multiple devices may have to purchase additional connections at an extra cost (40% of the subscription fee per added connection). Many competitors offer five or more simultaneous connections by default, making them a better choice for families or users with multiple devices.
No live chat for customer support
RapidVPN’s customer support is limited to email and ticket-based systems, with no live chat or phone support. While responses are generally helpful and informative, they can take a few hours, making them less convenient for users who need immediate assistance. Many premium VPN providers offer 24/7 live chat support, ensuring faster problem resolution. The lack of an extensive knowledge base or troubleshooting guides also means that users may struggle to find quick answers to common issues.
Customer Experience
RapidVPN has received mixed reviews from customers across different online platforms. While some users praise their speed, privacy policies, and dedicated servers, others express concerns about limited server locations and lack of advanced features.
On Trustpilot, the provider holds a 3.5/5 rating, indicating an average level of customer satisfaction. TechRadar, a well-known technology review site, describes them as “reliable but in need of more features”, highlighting that while the core functionalities are solid, there are areas that could benefit from improvement.
Compared to industry leaders such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN, which often boast ratings above 4.5 stars, RapidVPN falls behind in overall customer perception. However, they remain viable for users prioritizing dedicated IPs and security-focused features.
Positive feedback
Despite some criticisms, many customers have positive experiences with RapidVPN, particularly regarding speed and privacy. Users frequently highlight the consistency of their dedicated servers, which provide fast and stable connections—especially beneficial for streaming and gaming. Unlike many VPNs that experience speed drops due to server congestion, RapidVPN’s dedicated server approach ensures reliable performance with minimal lag.
Additionally, privacy-focused users appreciate the strict no-logs policy, which guarantees that personal data is not stored or shared. This commitment to anonymity makes the VPN a preferred choice for those who prioritize security while browsing the web, accessing restricted content, or conducting financial transactions.
Several users also commend the simplicity of the service, noting that setup is straightforward and the software is easy to navigate, even for VPN beginners. This accessibility makes them an attractive option for those who don’t want to deal with complex configurations or extensive technical knowledge.
Critical feedback
While RapidVPN excels in speed and privacy, they have several drawbacks that users frequently mention in negative reviews. One of the most common complaints is the limited number of servers. With only 21 servers across seven countries, the provider offers fewer location options compared to larger VPN brands, which often have thousands of servers in 50+ countries. This limited selection restricts access to region-specific content, making them less versatile for frequent users or requiring access to diverse geographical locations.
Another significant issue raised by customers is the lack of advanced features. Unlike competitors that offer split tunneling, RAM-based servers, and multi-hop connections, RapidVPN’s feature set is considered somewhat basic. While they cover the fundamentals—such as encryption, multiple protocols, and a kill switch—they do not provide additional enhancements that modern VPN users have come to expect.
Users also express frustration with device limitations, as RapidVPN only allows two simultaneous connections per plan. Many competing VPNs offer five or more simultaneous connections at no additional cost, making them more attractive for users with multiple devices or those who need to share their VPN with family members.
Company’s response to customer concerns
RapidVPN is fairly responsive to customer feedback, but they lack the proactive approach seen in top-tier VPN providers. While the company addresses complaints and inquiries through email support, the absence of live chat or phone support makes communication slower and less convenient. Users who encounter technical difficulties or billing issues may have to wait several hours or even a day to receive a response, which can be frustrating compared to VPNs with instant chat support available 24/7.
In terms of improving their service, RapidVPN has made incremental updates over the years, but they have not introduced major innovations to compete with industry leaders. While the dedicated server approach remains their biggest strength, the provider could benefit from expanding their server network, improving their customer support, and adding advanced security features.
Ultimately, while RapidVPN is responsive to customer concerns, they do not have the same strong customer service presence or active development cycle as some of their larger competitors. Users looking for a basic yet reliable VPN with strong privacy and dedicated servers may still find them a worthy option, but those seeking cutting-edge features and global accessibility may need to explore alternatives.
Customer Support
RapidVPN does not have a website with information about their customer support options. However, based on the details available through their app, users can email their customer support team at r[email protected] for assistance. While this email support can handle general inquiries and technical issues, users looking for immediate responses may find the lack of comprehensive support resources, such as a knowledge base or community forum, to be a limitation.
Conclusion
RapidVPN provides a dedicated IP VPN service with a strict logging policy, multiple VPN protocols, and support for torrenting. Their lifetime plan is an option for users seeking long-term VPN access, while their best server selection ensures stable connections for streaming, remote work, and secure transactions. The VPN also includes DDoS attack protection and encryption to safeguard personal information and internet activity.
However, RapidVPN has a smaller server network than some competitors, which may affect global connectivity and access to geo-restricted content. While they offer smart server recommendations, their lack of RAM-based servers, split tunneling, and advanced security features may not meet the needs of users looking for higher levels of privacy and customization. Additionally, their customer support options are limited, as they do not provide live chat assistance, which could be a drawback for users needing immediate technical help.
Overall, RapidVPN’s technical capabilities cater to users who prioritize privacy and security over a large server network or additional features. Whether it is the right VPN depends on individual needs, such as the importance of a dedicated IP, cybersecurity measures, and server availability.
If you’re exploring alternatives, our VPN comparison tool and detailed VPN reviews can help you evaluate different providers based on security, speed, pricing, and features. The comparison tool allows you to assess multiple VPNs side by side, highlighting key aspects such as server coverage, logging policies, encryption standards, and streaming capabilities. Whether you prioritize a no-logs policy, access to a wide range of servers, or advanced security measures like RAM-based servers and obfuscated connections, our reviews and blogs provide an unbiased breakdown of each service. By using these resources, you can make an informed decision and find a VPN that best aligns with your privacy needs, technical requirements, and budget.