PureVPN vs Total VPN
In a world where digital privacy matters more than ever and access to global content is a daily need for many, VPNs have gone from niche tools to mainstream essentials. Whether you’re working remotely, trying to catch your favorite shows from abroad, or just want to keep your online activity private, there’s a sea of providers claiming to offer the best blend of speed, security, and affordability.
Two options that often come up in this space are PureVPN and Total VPN. On paper, they target slightly different audiences, PureVPN touts a sprawling server network and loads of technical features for power users, while Total VPN markets itself as a budget-friendly, easy-to-use option for newcomers. But which one truly holds up under scrutiny?
This side-by-side comparison digs deep into everything from connection speeds and security audits to streaming performance and ease of use. Whether you’re a digital nomad hopping across time zones or someone who just wants peace of mind when logging into a public Wi-Fi network, this guide will help you decide which VPN best fits your routine. It will also help you determine your tech comfort level.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- PureVPN impresses with its vast server coverage and advanced settings, making it a solid pick for experienced users and those needing versatility.
- Total VPN is tailored for beginners, offering a simple interface, lower cost, and just enough functionality for everyday tasks.
- For users wanting true plug-and-play convenience or pre-configured hardware, there are other VPN options that might better suit those expectations.
Quick Comparison: PureVPN vs Total VPN
| Feature | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Headquarters | British Virgin Islands | UK (previously USA-owned) |
| Server Count | 6,500+ servers in 78+ countries | 50+ servers in 30 countries |
| Monthly Price | From $2.11/month (2-year plan) | From $4.99/month |
| No-Log Policy | Audited No-Logs | Unverified, basic logs retained |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 devices | 3 devices |
From the outset, PureVPN appears more feature-rich and robust, especially for users who demand stronger privacy assurances and wider geographic reach. Total VPN, while modest in scope, appeals to users who prefer simplicity and a quick setup without diving into advanced configurations.
That said, there’s also space in the market for alternatives like Shellfire VPN, which strike a balance between simplicity and broader functionality. While not as feature-heavy as PureVPN, Shellfire offers a more stable, user-friendly experience than Total VPN, particularly with its plug-and-play solutions that don’t overwhelm newcomers but still deliver solid global access.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Metric | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Servers | 6,500+ | 50+ |
| Countries Covered | 78+ | 30 |
| Virtual Server Usage | Yes (clearly labeled) | Yes (not always transparent) |
| Dedicated IP Options | Available | Not available |
PureVPN comes out ahead in infrastructure, offering a massive and clearly mapped-out network that supports frequent travel and international use. Having dedicated IPs is a bonus for users running secure services or managing remote access. In contrast, Total VPN offers basic regional access, good enough for casual use, but not ideal for those needing consistent access from various global locations.
Speed & Performance
| Test Type | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Average Download Speed | 320 Mbps | 120 Mbps |
| Average Upload Speed | 210 Mbps | 60 Mbps |
| Latency (Ping) | 25–40 ms | 50–90 ms |
| Speed Consistency | High | Moderate |
In terms of performance, PureVPN easily outruns Total VPN. Whether you’re downloading hefty files, streaming 4K video, or gaming online, the speed difference is noticeable. The inclusion of WireGuard support makes PureVPN even snappier and more reliable. Total VPN, while fine for casual browsing and occasional HD streaming, can be a bit hit-or-miss during busy hours or heavier usage.
Security & Privacy
| Security Feature | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption Standard | AES-256 | AES-128/AES-256 (varies by protocol) |
| VPN Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, SSTP, L2TP | OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP |
| Kill Switch | Yes (configurable) | No |
| No-Logs Policy | Audited & Verified | Basic, not independently verified |
| Independent Security Audits | Yes (2023, by KPMG) | No |
If privacy is non-negotiable, PureVPN has the edge with a fully audited no-logs policy, robust encryption standards, and a reliable kill switch to protect your data even during dropouts. Total VPN offers more of a basic layer of security, lacking both independent audits and advanced protections. This may be sufficient for low-risk environments, but not for users facing censorship or surveillance. For a broader view of how PureVPN holds up against other major players in the privacy arena, it’s worth checking out this detailed comparison with NordVPN, where differences in logging policies and encryption depth are explored further.
Streaming Performance
| Streaming Platform | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix (US, UK, JP) | Yes (stable, HD/4K supported) | Yes (inconsistent access) |
| BBC iPlayer | Yes | Not reliable |
| Disney+ | Yes | Yes (some regions only) |
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes (multiple libraries) | No |
| Hulu | Yes | No |
For binge-watchers and content explorers, PureVPN is the better bet. It reliably unblocks multiple libraries across Netflix, Prime Video, and even BBC iPlayer, with dedicated servers designed to handle these tasks smoothly. You’ll avoid those frustrating proxy errors and buffering delays. Total VPN, while sometimes successful with Netflix or Disney+, lacks the consistency and range needed for serious streaming use.
Looking for reliable streaming access across all devices?
Our Shellfire Box is designed to provide consistent access to your favorite streaming platforms, which can be a helpful solution if you’re experiencing issues with other VPNs.
Platform Compatibility
| Platform | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| iOS / Android | Yes (fully featured) | Yes (basic) |
| Linux | Yes (manual config) | No |
| Browser Extensions | Chrome, Firefox, Edge | None |
| Smart TVs / Routers | Yes | No |
| Game Consoles | Yes (via router) | No |
If you’re juggling a bunch of devices, from your smart TV to your PlayStation, PureVPN covers more ground with broader compatibility and even browser plugins. Its router support also allows for whole-house protection. Total VPN keeps things simple and is better for users who mainly connect through laptops or smartphones. It works fine on common platforms but lacks flexibility for advanced setups.
Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries
| Country | PureVPN Rating | Total VPN Rating |
|---|---|---|
| China | Moderate (requires manual config) | Poor |
| Russia | Good | Poor |
| Iran | Moderate | Very Poor |
| UAE | Good | Poor |
| Turkey | Very Good | Moderate |
When you’re traveling or living in a country with heavy internet censorship, PureVPN is far more reliable. Its configurable protocols and stealth options give it a fighting chance against restrictive firewalls. While it’s not bulletproof, it usually works with a bit of setup. Total VPN, however, struggles across the board in these regions. It’s not recommended if you’re dealing with government filtering or strict surveillance.
User Experience & Apps
| UX Metric | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| App Design | Modern, fully-featured UI | Minimalist, beginner-friendly |
| Stability | Stable with rare crashes | Occasional disconnections |
| Ease of Use | Moderate to Advanced | Very Easy |
| Setup Time | 5–10 minutes | 2–3 minutes |
If you’re tech-savvy and enjoy tweaking settings, you’ll appreciate PureVPN‘s robust interface. It gives you more control, from switching protocols to managing split tunneling. But that depth comes with a slightly steeper learning curve. Total VPN is the opposite, fast to set up, no frills, and perfect if you just want something that works out of the box without thinking twice.
In that regard, the Shellfire Box offers a unique middle ground. It removes the need for any software installation by acting as a dedicated VPN router, ideal for those who want a seamless experience across all devices without dealing with apps at all. It’s especially convenient for households or shared spaces where simplicity and device-wide protection are both priorities.
Customer Support
| Support Channel | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | 24/7 available | No |
| Email Support | Yes (within 12–24 hours) | Yes (within 48 hours) |
| Help Center / Guides | Extensive | Basic |
| Troubleshooting Resources | Yes (searchable knowledge base) | Limited |
Customer service is another area where PureVPN shines. If you’re stuck, live chat is just a click away, and there’s a comprehensive knowledge base to help you out of most jams. Total VPN feels more like a self-service model, email support is slow, and help articles are thin. If fast support matters to you, that’s worth factoring in.
Additional Features
| Feature | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Split Tunneling | Yes | No |
| Port Forwarding | Yes (paid add-on) | No |
| Ad & Tracker Blocking | Yes (beta feature) | No |
| DDoS Protection | Available (with dedicated IP) | No |
| Mesh Networking | No | No |
PureVPN packs a decent toolbox beyond the basics, split tunneling is handy for directing only part of your traffic through the VPN, while port forwarding can improve torrenting or gaming connections. There’s also beta support for ad blocking and DDoS protection when using a dedicated IP, which adds value for streamers and gamers. Total VPN, on the other hand, sticks to the essentials. That makes the experience cleaner, but also leaves power users wanting more.
Interestingly, Shellfire VPN presents an alternative approach by integrating essential protections like encryption and server switching with minimal user interaction. And with the Shellfire Box, users can extend VPN coverage to smart TVs, game consoles, and IoT devices, something that neither PureVPN nor Total VPN supports natively without manual router configuration. That flexibility could tip the scales for users prioritizing convenience without giving up too much functionality.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use Case | PureVPN | Total VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Torrenting / P2P | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
| Gaming | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Remote Work | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Budget-Conscious Users | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Censorship-Heavy Countries | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
Best VPN for Streaming
If watching shows from around the world is your main concern, PureVPN leads the way. It unlocks a wide range of streaming platforms and supports HD or 4K content with minimal buffering. Dedicated streaming servers help maintain smooth access. Total VPN can get you into Netflix or Disney+ occasionally, but it lacks the consistency and speed needed for regular viewing.
Alternatively, Shellfire VPN offers a practical solution for households looking to unlock international content across multiple devices, including smart TVs. Thanks to the Shellfire Box, even devices that normally lack VPN support can stream geo-restricted content without needing additional apps or configuration, making it a compelling option for users who want whole-home streaming access with minimal hassle.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
For torrenters, PureVPN checks all the right boxes: split tunneling, port forwarding, and a kill switch that prevents data leaks if your connection drops. Total VPN, by contrast, offers none of these features, and its lack of security tools makes it a poor choice for P2P sharing.
Best VPN for Gaming
Gamers need speed and low latency, and PureVPN performs well in both. It even offers DDoS protection if you opt for a dedicated IP, great for competitive players. Total VPN might suffice for light or single-player gaming, but serious gamers will quickly feel the limitations.
For gamers wanting a simpler setup with stable protection, Shellfire Box also deserves mention. While it doesn’t offer native DDoS protection, its ability to cover entire home networks, including consoles that don’t support VPN apps, makes it easier to game securely without complex installations. It’s a practical option for console players who want basic latency protection and privacy without extra steps.
Best VPN for Remote Work
With stable servers, configurable protocols, and dedicated IPs, PureVPN is a smart pick for professionals working remotely. It supports secure access to corporate resources without compromising speed. Total VPN isn’t built for this purpose, limited protocol control and no dedicated IPs mean it’s better suited to personal use, not sensitive work environments.
Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users
While PureVPN also offers affordable long-term plans, its features may go underutilized by users who don’t need global coverage or advanced security. For pure affordability with minimal expectations, Total VPN edges ahead here. Still, if you’re comparing options purely on price-to-feature balance, it can help to look at how PureVPN competes with other value-oriented services like Surfshark, especially for users trying to get the most out of a tight budget.
Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries
In regions with restricted internet access, PureVPN holds its own thanks to configurable settings and stealth support. It’s not the most advanced in this space, but it gets the job done for many users. Total VPN struggles here, it lacks the tools and resilience needed to bypass government blocks effectively.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, choosing between PureVPN and Total VPN depends on how you use the internet and what you expect from your VPN.
If you’re looking for something powerful, flexible, and ready to handle serious tasks like streaming across borders, secure file sharing, or remote work, then PureVPN is the better option. It’s packed with features like split tunneling, optional port forwarding, and support for multiple protocols, perfect for those who want control and customization. Whether you’re traveling for business or just want airtight privacy at home, PureVPN offers a depth of options that caters to more advanced or demanding users.
On the flip side, Total VPN is all about simplicity. It’s ideal if you’re just starting out, don’t need bells and whistles, and mainly want something to mask your IP address and keep you a little safer on public networks. It’s not designed for heavy-duty use, but it does what it promises, and that’s enough for many users on a budget.
That said, if what you really need is a straightforward, plug-and-play solution for the whole household, or you’re just not into tech, both the Shellfire VPN and Shellfire Box are worth looking into. Unlike most traditional VPNs, we’re designed to be as hands-off as possible: no manual installations, no configuring dozens of settings, and no stress. Our Shellfire Box, in particular, acts as a gateway for all your devices, even those that don’t natively support VPN apps. It’s a smart pick for families, frequent travelers, or anyone who values ease of use just as much as privacy.
