⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Malwarebytes VPN comes in the Plus bundle at $79.98/yr. SafeShell VPN starts at $5.99 with its 1 Week plan.
- Best for: Malwarebytes suits people who want antivirus and a VPN on one bill. SafeShell suits streaming, gaming, and per-app control.
- Key difference: SafeShell’s App Mode links different apps to different regions at once. Malwarebytes only offers basic split tunneling.
- Our pick: SafeShell VPN for most users. It handles more VPN jobs for less money.
Malwarebytes VPN and SafeShell VPN both hide your IP address for online privacy.
That’s about where the overlap ends.
Malwarebytes builds its privacy VPN around a famous antivirus suite.
SafeShell builds everything around streaming, gaming, and app control.
So the right pick depends on what you actually do online.
Overview
This Malwarebytes VPN vs SafeShell VPN comparison covers privacy, speed, streaming, devices, and price.
We reviewed documentation, pricing pages, and user reviews for both VPN services.
Our writers also spent hands-on time with each one.
Those notes appear in the “What Our Team Noticed” sections below.
What is Malwarebytes VPN?
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is a virtual private network from a well-known antivirus company.
It encrypts your traffic and swaps your real IP address for a server’s.
It runs on the WireGuard protocol, which is faster than older VPN protocols.
Older reviews called it a basic version of Mullvad VPN, its first server partner.
Today it runs on AzireVPN infrastructure, a company Malwarebytes bought in 2024.
Most people get it bundled with other Malwarebytes products, like the antivirus app.
Watch our quick video review to see how the Malwarebytes privacy VPN works.
Malwarebytes VPN
Antivirus and VPN under one login. WireGuard speed plus a no-logs policy audited in 2026.
Malwarebytes VPN Pricing
Malwarebytes sells its VPN inside security bundles. Here’s the 2026 lineup.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $59.99/yr | Antivirus only on 3 devices (no VPN) |
| Plus | $79.98/yr | Antivirus + VPN on 3 devices |
| Total | $89.99/yr | Device security, VPN, and identity protection |
Pricing verified October 2026.
Free trial: Yes. There’s a 7-day trial period for the VPN.
Money-back guarantee: Malwarebytes offers a 60-day money back guarantee.
📌 Note: You can pay with PayPal or a credit or debit card. Crypto isn’t accepted. Malwarebytes rarely runs VPN discounts. VAT in some countries can add up to 20% at checkout.
⚠️ Warning: Standard does not include the VPN. Price check: some review sites list standalone VPN plans. They show $39.99/yr for one device, $49.99 for three, and $59.99 for five. Confirm at checkout.
Key Benefits of Malwarebytes VPN
Here’s what makes Malwarebytes VPN worth a look:
- Audited No-Logs Policy: X41 D-Sec audited the VPN infrastructure in 2026. It found no logging of IP addresses, browsing history, or DNS queries.
- Kill Switch: All traffic stops if the VPN drops. Your real IP never leaks during reconnects.
- MultiHop: Your traffic can pass through two servers in different countries. That adds a second layer of cover.
- Private DNS: Malwarebytes runs its own DNS servers. They don’t track where you browse.
- Worldwide Servers: You get 470+ servers across 45+ countries. That covers the most popular regions.
- Security Bundle: One Malwarebytes account covers the anti-malware engine and the VPN. Billing stays simple.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Malwarebytes Privacy VPN for everyday browsing. Here’s what stood out (our full privacy VPN review has more):
Malwarebytes VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Antivirus and VPN under one Malwarebytes account
- WireGuard and AES-256 encryption on every server
- No-logs policy backed by a 2026 third-party audit
- Kill switch and MultiHop included
- Quick, helpful replies from customer support
❌ Cons
- Often blocked by Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
- No Linux, router, or gaming console apps
- US-based, inside the 5 Eyes alliance
- VPN needs the pricier Plus or Total bundle
What is SafeShell VPN?
SafeShell VPN is a streaming-first VPN from GearUP Portal Pte. Ltd. in Singapore.
It launched in 2023, so it is younger than most VPN brands.
It hides your IP addresses and encrypts data with its own ShellGuard protocol.
It also uses QUIC technology to disguise VPN traffic on strict networks.
Its tagline claims SafeShell revolutionizes VPN use with a personalized connection experience.
The real hook is App Mode, which ties each app to its own region.
Open the app, and you’ll quickly discover how different that feels.
Its Trustpilot score sits around 4.1 to 4.6, and its App Store rating is 3.9.
Watch our video review to experience SafeShell before you sign up.
🏆 Winner: SafeShell VPN
Stream from multiple regions at once with App Mode. Game Mode and an ad blocker come built in.
SafeShell VPN Pricing
SafeShell keeps it simple with three subscription lengths.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Months | $24.99/month | A season of streaming or a long trip |
| 1 Year | $59.99/month | Daily, long-term use |
| 1 Week | $5.99/month | Short trips or testing first |
Pricing verified October 2026.
Free trial: Yes. New users who haven’t subscribed get a 3-day free trial period.
Money-back guarantee: SafeShell gives a 7-day refund window on your first purchase.
📌 Note: You can pay by card, PayPal, Google Play, or Apple Pay. WeChat Pay and Alipay work too. Every plan unlocks unlimited data and all features.
⚠️ Warning: Plans auto-renew unless you cancel at least 24 hours before expiry. Price check: some review sites list $49.99/year, $9.99/month, and $3.99/week. Checkout may bill per period, so confirm before paying.
Key Benefits of SafeShell VPN
Here’s what makes SafeShell worth considering:
- App Mode: Connect different apps to multiple regions simultaneously. No more switching servers for every app.
- Professional Streaming: Dedicated high-speed servers target Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube. Trustpilot reviewers often praise its streaming performance.
- Broad Coverage: SafeShell lists 70+ regional server locations to cut latency. It also advertises access to 100+ locations worldwide.
- Game Mode: It routes traffic toward game servers for lower ping. Responses feel quicker in online matches.
- No Speed Limits: Every plan gets unlimited, high speed access. There are no data caps.
- Zero-Logs Policy: SafeShell says it keeps no activity logs. DNS leak protection adds another safety net.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for SafeShell VPN to stream and browse. Here’s what stood out:
SafeShell VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- App Mode routes different apps through different countries at once
- Apps for Apple TV, Android TV, and Apple Vision Pro
- Game Mode and SafeNet AdBlock built in
- QUIC disguise helps bypass strict censorship
- Six payment options, including Apple Pay and Alipay
❌ Cons
- Only a 7-day money-back window
- Some users report slow support and refund trouble
- Young company with a short public history
- Auto-renewal catches people who forget to cancel
Feature Comparison
Ready for a closer look at Malwarebytes VPN vs SafeShell VPN?
We’ll walk through ten important features to help you choose.
| Feature | Malwarebytes VPN | SafeShell VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $79.98/yr (Plus, with VPN) | $5.99 (1 Week) |
| Free Plan | ❌ | ❌ |
| Free Trial | ✅ 7 days | ✅ 3 days |
| Per-App Regions | ❌ | ✅ App Mode |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ Connection Rules | ✅ App Mode |
| Antivirus Included | ✅ Bundle | ❌ |
| Game Mode | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ad Blocker | ✅ Browser Guard | ✅ SafeNet AdBlock |
| Smart TV Apps | ❌ | ✅ Apple TV & Android TV |
| Best For | Antivirus users | Streamers and gamers |
1. Encryption & Privacy
Malwarebytes VPN: Is Malwarebytes Privacy VPN safe for daily use? Yes, for most people. It pairs WireGuard with AES-256 encryption. The no-logs policy says it never stores DNS requests, IP addresses, or bandwidth usage. It may keep anonymized data, like a public key used to build each connection.
Older reviews flagged missing third party audits and an unclear privacy policy. That changed in April 2026. An X41 D-Sec audit found no sign of user activity logging.
Malwarebytes also offers tools that keep your personal data out of reach.
SafeShell VPN: It encrypts traffic with its own ShellGuard protocol. Zero-logs rules and DNS leak protection shield your online activities from hackers. That matters most on public Wi-Fi.
⚠️ Warning: Malwarebytes is based in the US, a 5 Eyes member. Some people avoid any US-based VPN company over surveillance concerns. SafeShell’s parent company sits in Singapore.
2. Server Network & Speed
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes servers number 470+ across 45+ countries. That’s smaller than many VPNs, and it doesn’t say how many are virtual servers. Third-party speed tests showed drops near 34% on nearby servers and 62% on far ones.
SafeShell VPN: It lists 70+ regional server locations and access to 100+ locations worldwide. Every plan gets unlimited bandwidth with no speed limits. Trustpilot reviewers often mention its high-speed connection.
💡 Pro Tip: Pick the closest server for the fastest download speed. Neither tool is the fastest VPN on the market, and distance hurts both.
3. Streaming
Malwarebytes VPN: This is its weakest area. There are no dedicated streaming servers. Reports say it often fails on Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Netflix is hit or miss.
SafeShell VPN: Streaming is the whole point here. Professional Streaming servers target Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, and other streaming services. You can watch a home sports channel abroad with a comfortable viewing experience.
✅ Result: SafeShell runs on Apple TV and Android TV for big-screen streaming. Malwarebytes doesn’t even support the Fire TV Stick.
4. Split Tunneling vs App Mode
Malwarebytes VPN: It offers split tunneling through a feature called Connection Rules. You can let certain apps or IP addresses skip the VPN. Everything else shares the same server.
SafeShell VPN: Other VPNs usually force one location for everything. SafeShell offers two modes. Global Mode sends all traffic through one location. App Mode connects different apps to different VPN locations at once.
For example, Facebook can use one country while Netflix uses another. Trustpilot reviewers like skipping constant server swaps. One reviewer did say home-country apps broke in App Mode. Still, it takes per-app control to a new level compared to Malwarebytes.
5. Gaming
Malwarebytes VPN: There are no gaming features at all. Users report high ping during matches, which hurts online play. There are no apps for gaming consoles either.
SafeShell VPN: It includes a Game Mode built for gaming. It picks better routes to game servers for lower latency and faster responses. That helps players who join servers in multiple locations.
6. Device Support
Malwarebytes VPN: You get a Windows app, a macOS app, an Android app, and an iOS app. There’s no Linux app, no router setup, and no Fire TV Stick support. Plus covers three simultaneous connections.
Mac users should check operating system requirements, especially on older versions like macOS Catalina. The mobile apps may not get all the same features as the desktop app.
SafeShell VPN: It’s compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS. It also runs on iPad, Apple TV, Android TV, and Apple Vision Pro. That multi device support suits homes full of screens.
7. Ad & Tracker Blocking
Malwarebytes VPN: Browser Guard is a free browser extension. It blocks ads, trackers, and scam websites before they load. It works even when the VPN is off.
Malwarebytes also helps shrink the trail you leave across the web.
SafeShell VPN: SafeNet AdBlock lives inside the app. It filters ads while you stream and browse. It’s handy, but it only works while SafeShell is running.
8. Malware Protection & Security Extras
Malwarebytes VPN: This is where Malwarebytes wins easily. With Premium, Malwarebytes protects you from malware, ransomware, and spyware in real time. The VPN adds a kill switch and MultiHop routing through two countries.
For cleanup jobs, Malwarebytes adds a free adware removal tool.
SafeShell VPN: It’s a VPN, not an anti malware solution. It adds IPv6 support and leak protection to keep connections secure. You’ll still need separate antivirus software.
⚠️ Warning: A VPN alone won’t stop malware. Using a VPN hides your traffic, but infected downloads can still get through.
9. Identity Protection & Extras
Malwarebytes VPN: The Total plan adds identity theft protection and dark web monitoring. A data remover helps pull your details off people-search sites. SafeShell has nothing like this.
Dark web alerts tell you when your email or passwords leak.
The data remover sends removal requests to data brokers for you.
SafeShell VPN: Its fun extra is subtitle translation in 30+ languages. It helps when you watch foreign shows and videos. It’s a nice bonus, not a security feature.
10. Pricing & Cost
Here are both price lists side by side.
| Plan | Malwarebytes VPN | SafeShell VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Standard: $59.99/yr (no VPN) | 1 Week: $5.99/month |
| Middle | Plus: $79.98/yr | 3 Months: $24.99/month |
| Top | Total: $89.99/yr | 1 Year: $59.99/month |
| Free Trial | 7 days | 3 days |
| Money-Back | 60 days | 7 days |
Malwarebytes VPN: You pay more for VPN access because it only comes in a bundle. In return, you also get antivirus, which adds real value. The 60-day refund window is generous.
SafeShell VPN: Plans are VPN-only. Unlike most VPNs, they go down to a single week. Longer plans give the best value. Watch the short refund window and the auto-renewal.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Antivirus and VPN together | Malwarebytes VPN | One bundle, one account |
| Netflix and Prime Video | SafeShell VPN | Dedicated streaming servers |
| Different regions per app | SafeShell VPN | App Mode |
| Low-ping gaming | SafeShell VPN | Game Mode routing |
| Audited no-logs privacy | Malwarebytes VPN | 2026 X41 D-Sec audit |
| Long refund window | Malwarebytes VPN | 60 days vs 7 days |
| Beginner-friendly streaming | SafeShell VPN | User friendly TV and mobile apps |
💰 Your Budget
SafeShell costs less if you only need a VPN. Malwarebytes makes sense if you’d buy antivirus anyway.
🔌 Your Devices
SafeShell covers Apple TV, Android TV, and Apple Vision headsets. Malwarebytes skips TVs, routers, Linux, and consoles.
🎬 Your Streaming and Gaming Habits
Watch shows with friends abroad or game online? SafeShell’s streaming servers and Game Mode fit that life.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both apps are easy to navigate. You can customize SafeShell’s App Mode. Malwarebytes keeps settings easily accessible behind one connect button.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Malwarebytes gives a 7-day trial, and SafeShell gives new users 3 days. Test your real apps during the trial, not just speed.
🛟 Support Options
Malwarebytes support gets good marks for quick replies when you contact it. Some SafeShell users report slow help, so its support still needs improvements.
🌍 Censorship and Travel
SafeShell’s QUIC disguise targets strict networks for more online freedom. Reports say Malwarebytes struggles in countries like China.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes VPN to SafeShell VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- App Mode for running apps through different countries
- Streaming servers plus Apple TV and Android TV apps
- Game Mode and subtitle translation
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Antivirus, Browser Guard, and identity tools in one bill
- The 60-day money-back window
- An audited no-logs policy and MultiHop
📋 How to switch:
- Turn off auto-renew in your Malwarebytes account.
- Download SafeShell, create an account, and start the 3-day trial.
- Set up App Mode for your main streaming apps.
🔄 Switching from SafeShell VPN to Malwarebytes VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Real-time antivirus and the Browser Guard extension
- A kill switch and MultiHop routing
- Audited privacy and a longer refund window
❌ What you’ll lose:
- App Mode and per-app regions
- TV and Apple Vision Pro apps
- Game Mode and subtitle translation
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel SafeShell at least 24 hours before renewal.
- Buy Malwarebytes Plus, install the desktop app, and approve the pop up window.
- Turn on the kill switch, plus auto launch and auto connect if you like.
If you hit issues downloading either app, open a support ticket right away. Don’t wait until your trial ends.
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on everyday privacy, streaming, and gaming for home users. We didn’t test either VPN inside China or on a router. Business and team plans weren’t part of this review. We didn’t track refunds over months. We also skipped setups for people who download torrents. Features may change after October 2026, so check both sites before buying.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | SafeShell VPN |
| 🔒 Privacy & Audits | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🌍 Server Coverage | SafeShell VPN |
| 🎬 Streaming | SafeShell VPN |
| 🎮 Gaming | SafeShell VPN |
| 📱 Device Support | SafeShell VPN |
| 🛡️ Malware & Identity Protection | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | SafeShell VPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | SafeShell VPN |
🏆 WINNER: SAFESHELL VPN
SafeShell VPN wins 6 out of 8 categories.
Best for: Streaming, gaming, per-app regions, and smart TVs
Malwarebytes VPN and SafeShell VPN solve different problems. Malwarebytes is a security suite with a VPN attached. SafeShell is a VPN built for entertainment and control.
Malwarebytes still fits if you want antivirus, Browser Guard, and identity tools on one bill. Its 2026 audit and 60-day refund add real peace of mind. Reviewers often compare it unfavorably with ExpressVPN and NordVPN on pure VPN power, though.
For pure VPN work, SafeShell does more for less. There’s no single best VPN for everyone. Still, App Mode alone saves you from constant server switching. Test it during the trial, and set a reminder before renewal.
More of Malwarebytes VPN Compared
Here’s how Malwarebytes VPN holds up against other popular picks:
Malwarebytes wins on: Built-in antivirus, a 60-day refund window, and a simpler one-button app
NordVPN wins on: A far larger network, Double VPN, and Smart DNS for TVs and consoles
Malwarebytes VPN vs ExpressVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Bundled antivirus, identity tools in Total, and a longer refund window
ExpressVPN wins on: Steadier streaming access, router apps, and servers in many more countries
Malwarebytes VPN vs ProtonVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Real-time malware protection, the Browser Guard extension, and identity theft coverage
ProtonVPN wins on: A free plan with no ads, open-source apps, and Secure Core routing
Malwarebytes VPN vs Surfshark
Malwarebytes wins on: A dedicated anti-malware engine, AdwCleaner, and a 60-day refund window
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited device connections, better streaming results, and a much bigger country list
More of SafeShell VPN Compared
Here’s how SafeShell VPN stacks up against other options:
SafeShell wins on: App Mode, built-in subtitle translation, and a cheap 1 Week plan
NordVPN wins on: An audited no-logs policy, a much bigger network, and a 30-day refund
SafeShell wins on: Per-app region control, Game Mode, and short weekly plans
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, a longer refund window, and a longer public history
SafeShell wins on: A streaming-first design, App Mode, and Game Mode for lower ping
ProtonVPN wins on: A real free plan, open-source apps, and Swiss-based privacy protections
SafeShell VPN vs PureVPN
SafeShell wins on: App Mode, subtitle translation, and a simpler app for beginners
PureVPN wins on: Dedicated IP add-ons, port forwarding, and a 31-day money-back window
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malwarebytes VPN any good?
It’s good for basic privacy, with WireGuard, a kill switch, and a 2026 audit. It struggles with streaming and lacks TV, router, and Linux apps.
Does Malwarebytes VPN log data?
No. Its no-logs policy covers DNS requests, IP addresses, and bandwidth usage. A 2026 X41 D-Sec audit found no activity logging. Anonymized connection keys may be stored.
Does Malwarebytes VPN work on Netflix?
Sometimes, but not reliably. It has no dedicated streaming servers and often fails on Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. SafeShell VPN is the stronger streaming pick.
Do I need Malwarebytes if I have a VPN?
Yes, if you want malware protection. A VPN encrypts traffic and hides your IP, but it won’t block infected downloads. Antivirus software handles that job.
Is Malwarebytes VPN better than NordVPN?
No. NordVPN offers a far bigger server network, stronger streaming, and more privacy tools. Malwarebytes only wins if you want antivirus bundled with your VPN.
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