⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Hotspot Shield Premium costs $7.99/month, and a free version exists. Malwarebytes plans start at $44.99/yr.
- Best for: Hotspot Shield for speed and streaming. Malwarebytes for antivirus users who want one bundle.
- Key difference: Hotspot Shield is a dedicated VPN with 80+ locations. Malwarebytes pairs a basic VPN with anti-malware and identity tools.
- Our pick: Hotspot Shield for most users. It has more locations, a free version, and better streaming access.
Hotspot Shield and Malwarebytes VPN both promise a secure connection.
But they come from very different places.
Hotspot Shield is a dedicated VPN built around speed.
Malwarebytes is best known for its antivirus software.
That history shapes everything, from network size to streaming access.
Here’s which one fits your needs.
Overview
This Hotspot Shield vs Malwarebytes VPN comparison covers speed, privacy, streaming, apps, and pricing.
We reviewed documentation, pricing pages, and user reviews for both VPN services.
Our writers also spent hands-on time with each one.
Those observations appear in the “What Our Team Noticed” sections below.
What is Hotspot Shield?
Hotspot Shield is a VPN app that encrypts your internet traffic.
It sends your data through a secure VPN tunnel and hides your real IP address.
Its patented Hydra protocol is a proprietary VPN protocol built for speed.
Hotspot Shield hosts over 1,800 servers across 80 countries.
It also offers a free version, which many VPN providers skip.
Here’s a quick video overview.
Hotspot Shield
Fast Hydra connections and 80+ virtual locations. Premium unlocks streaming servers and ten devices.
Hotspot Shield Pricing
Here’s what Hotspot Shield costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Testing the app on one device |
| Premium | $7.99/month | Streaming, speed, and up to 10 devices |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: No trial needed. Hotspot Shield’s free VPN lets you test the app without paying.
Money-back guarantee: Premium comes with a 45 day money back guarantee.
📌 Note: Payment works with credit cards and PayPal, but not Bitcoin. Hotspot Shield’s free version is ad-supported and covers one device.
⚠️ Price check: The $7.99 rate applies to annual billing. Monthly billing runs $12.99. A five-user Family plan costs $19.99 monthly or $11.99 per month yearly. Confirm Hotspot Shield subscription options at checkout.
Key Benefits of Hotspot Shield
Here’s what makes Hotspot Shield worth considering:
- Hydra Speed: Hydra is tuned for fast, stable connections. The Windows app connects in about 4 to 5 seconds.
- Large Server Network: Over 1,800 servers cover 80 countries. P2P traffic is allowed on every server.
- Streaming Access: Premium unblocks US Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and Prime Video.
- Wide App Support: Apps cover Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Linux gets a command-line app, and Fire TV has its own.
- Split Tunneling: Hotspot Shield’s split tunneling lets you pick which apps or websites skip the VPN.
- Ten Devices: Hotspot Shield works on up to ten devices under one premium account.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer spent several days testing Hotspot Shield on everyday browsing and streaming. Here’s what stood out:
Hotspot Shield Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Hydra protocol delivers fast connections
- Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
- Free version with no payment required
- Up to ten devices on one premium account
- 45 day money back guarantee on Premium
❌ Cons
- Logs some session data despite no-logs claims
- US-based, inside the Five Eyes alliance
- Kill switch only works with Hydra
- Pricier than most VPN providers
What is Malwarebytes VPN?
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is a virtual private network from a security brand.
Malwarebytes started as an anti malware solution, and the VPN came later.
It runs on WireGuard for faster speeds than older protocols.
Its servers run on Mullvad VPN’s network, with 470+ servers in 45+ countries.
Malwarebytes isn’t a dedicated VPN company.
It’s often compared unfavorably to premium VPN brands like ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
This video walks through the app.
Malwarebytes VPN
WireGuard speed, a kill switch, and MultiHop. Pairs well with Malwarebytes antivirus.
Malwarebytes VPN Pricing
Malwarebytes sells its VPN inside yearly security plans.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $44.99/yr | Basic device protection |
| Plus | $59.99/yr | Adding the Privacy VPN |
| Total | $159.99/yr | VPN plus identity protection |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: Yes. Malwarebytes offers a 7-day trial period for Privacy VPN.
Money-back guarantee: A 60-day money-back guarantee covers VPN purchases.
📌 Note: Malwarebytes accepts PayPal and credit or debit cards. Crypto isn’t supported, and VPN plans don’t get discounts.
⚠️ Price check: Some review sites list standalone VPN plans instead. They show $39.99/yr for one device, $49.99/yr for three, and $59.99/yr for five. VAT can add up to 20% in some countries. Confirm at checkout.
Key Benefits of Malwarebytes VPN
Here’s what Malwarebytes offers VPN users:
- WireGuard Speed: WireGuard is lighter than traditional protocols. Speed still depends on server distance.
- Kill Switch: All network traffic stops if the VPN connection drops. Your IP stays hidden.
- Connection Rules: Bypass the VPN for certain apps or IP addresses, like split tunneling.
- MultiHop: Route traffic through two servers in different countries for extra privacy.
- Private DNS: A proprietary DNS server handles lookups without tracking your traffic.
- Security Bundle: Malwarebytes protects your device too, with antivirus and Browser Guard.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer used Malwarebytes Privacy VPN alongside its antivirus app for daily browsing. Here’s what stood out:
Malwarebytes VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- WireGuard and AES-256 encryption on every connection
- Kill switch, MultiHop, and Connection Rules included
- Pairs well with Malwarebytes antivirus software
- Quick, helpful customer support
❌ Cons
- Only 470+ servers in 45+ countries
- Weak streaming access for Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
- No third party audits of its privacy claims
- No Linux, router, gaming console, or Fire TV support
Feature Comparison
Ready to compare Hotspot Shield vs Malwarebytes VPN in detail?
We’ll cover nine key features, then pricing.
| Feature | Hotspot Shield | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $7.99/month | $44.99/yr |
| Free Plan | ✅ | ❌ (7-day trial) |
| Proprietary Protocol | ✅ Hydra | ❌ WireGuard |
| Kill Switch | ✅ (Hydra only) | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ Connection Rules |
| MultiHop | ❌ | ✅ |
| Streaming Servers | ✅ | ❌ |
| Linux Support | ✅ Command line | ❌ |
| Max Devices | 10 | 5 |
| Best For | Speed and streaming | Antivirus bundle users |
1. Speed & Performance
Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield markets itself as the fastest VPN, and outside tests support its speed claims. Hotspot Shield performed well in third-party speed tests. Hotspot Shield recorded about 210 Mbps in the UK and 190 Mbps in the US. Hotspot Shield’s speeds also earned it 2026 recognition for streaming.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes uses WireGuard, but results are mixed. Users report drops of 34% on a nearby local server and 62% on distant ones. There are no gaming servers, and gamers report high ping.
💡 Pro Tip: Run speed tests on the same server at different times. Results shift with server load.
2. VPN Protocols
Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield’s Hydra protocol is its own design, built for speed and security. The app also supports WireGuard and IKEv2. Hydra is the default for most users.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes sticks with WireGuard, an open protocol known for speed. You don’t get a custom protocol. You do get a widely reviewed standard.
3. Server Network
Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield’s servers number over 1,800 across 80 countries. That’s plenty of VPN servers and virtual locations for travel. P2P is allowed everywhere, so you can download torrents on any server.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes servers total 470+ in 45+ countries. These worldwide servers run on Mullvad’s network. That’s smaller than many VPNs. Fewer server locations mean fewer choices for streaming or travel.
4. Encryption & Security
Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield encrypts traffic on free and paid plans. Its kill switch blocks internet access if the VPN drops. But the Windows kill switch only works with Hydra. It turns off on WireGuard or IKEv2.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes uses AES-256 encryption and a kill switch for every session. MultiHop sends traffic through two countries. The Premium Security bundle adds real-time malware protection.
⚠️ Warning: On Hotspot Shield, stay on Hydra if you rely on the kill switch.
5. Privacy & Logging
Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield claims it doesn’t log browsing history. But Hotspot Shield logs your IP address when VPN sessions start. It deletes it afterward. It also keeps anonymized session length, bandwidth, and domain data. It claims a 2023 no-logs audit, yet other reviewers call it unverified. No transparency reports have appeared since 2019.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes says it doesn’t store DNS requests, IP addresses, or bandwidth usage. It may keep anonymized data like a public key. The policy is vague, with no audits. So is Malwarebytes Privacy VPN safe? For everyday browsing, yes.
⚠️ Warning: Both companies are US-based, inside the Five Eyes alliance. Hotspot Shield’s free version also shares data with advertisers.
6. Streaming & Torrenting
Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield Premium unblocks US Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and Prime Video. It reaches Netflix libraries in the UK, Germany, Japan, and Canada. BBC iPlayer, ITV, and Channel 4 worked in testing. 9Now and 10 Play didn’t.
Malwarebytes VPN: Does Malwarebytes Privacy VPN work for streaming? Mostly no. It often fails on Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. There are no dedicated streaming servers.
⚠️ Warning: The free version of Hotspot Shield doesn’t unblock any streaming services.
7. Devices & Apps
Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield offers apps for every major platform. Its Android and iOS apps are simple, and Hotspot Shield’s mobile apps include split tunneling. The Android app auto-connects on unsecured networks. The iOS app has an Always-on VPN option. The Mac app doesn’t get all the same features as the Windows app. It misses important features like auto-connect and keyboard shortcuts.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes runs on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The desktop app includes the kill switch and Connection Rules. Linux isn’t a supported operating system. There’s also no router, Fire TV Stick, or gaming consoles support. One Malwarebytes account covers up to five simultaneous connections.
💡 Pro Tip: Hotspot Shield Premium supports up to ten simultaneous device connections. That covers most families.
8. Browser Tools
Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield’s browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox let you switch locations inside the browser. They keep locations easily accessible when you only need web traffic covered.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes offers Browser Guard instead. It blocks malicious sites and trackers while you browse. It isn’t a VPN, but it adds another layer.
9. Identity & Extra Protection
Hotspot Shield: Hotspot Shield keeps its focus on VPN features. Speed, streaming, and privacy are the core of every plan.
Malwarebytes VPN: This is where Malwarebytes wins. The Total plan adds identity theft protection and dark web monitoring. Other Malwarebytes products, like AdwCleaner, remove adware too.
10. Pricing & Cost
Here are both pricing lineups side by side.
| Plan Tier | Hotspot Shield | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Free: $0 | ❌ (7-day trial) |
| Entry | Premium: $7.99/month | Standard: $44.99/yr |
| Mid | — | Plus: $59.99/yr |
| Top | — | Total: $159.99/yr |
Hotspot Shield: Most VPNs charge around $3 to $5 per month on annual plans. Hotspot Shield Premium costs more than that. Watch for Hotspot Shield deals before paying monthly.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes costs less per year, but you’re buying a security bundle. The VPN comes with Plus and Total. It makes sense if you already pay for Malwarebytes antivirus.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A $0 budget | Hotspot Shield | Free version, no payment |
| Cheapest paid plan | Malwarebytes VPN | Lower yearly price |
| Streaming | Hotspot Shield | Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ |
| Antivirus plus VPN | Malwarebytes VPN | One security bundle |
| Many devices | Hotspot Shield | Ten devices vs five |
| Beginner-friendly | Hotspot Shield | One-tap connect, free to try |
💰 Your Budget
Hotspot Shield free is the only $0 option here. For paid plans, Malwarebytes costs less per year.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Linux and Fire TV users should pick Hotspot Shield. Malwarebytes suits Windows devices and phones already running its antivirus.
🎬 Your Main Use
Streamers and torrent users get more from Hotspot Shield. Using a VPN mainly on public Wi-Fi? Malwarebytes covers basic online privacy.
🎓 Your Experience Level
The Hotspot Shield process is simple. Open the Hotspot Shield app and tap connect. Malwarebytes feels just as easy, with fewer settings.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Test Hotspot Shield free on one device first. Malwarebytes gives a 7-day trial before billing starts.
🛟 Support Options
Hotspot Shield’s support team offers live chat support only for premium accounts. Malwarebytes users can open a support ticket, and users report quick replies.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPN services? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Hotspot Shield to Malwarebytes VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Antivirus and VPN under one subscription
- MultiHop routing through two countries
- Identity theft protection on the Total plan
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 1,800+ servers across 80 countries
- Reliable access to major streaming platforms
- Linux support and ten-device coverage
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel Hotspot Shield inside your 45-day refund window.
- Create a Malwarebytes account and start the 7-day trial.
- Install the app, approve the pop up window, and turn on auto connect.
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes VPN to Hotspot Shield?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Faster Hydra connections
- Streaming access to Netflix, Hulu, and more
- A free version for light use
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Bundled anti-malware protection
- MultiHop double-server routing
- Identity monitoring and dark web alerts
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel Malwarebytes within the 60-day refund window.
- Sign up for Hotspot Shield Premium or the free plan.
- Install the app, choose Hydra, and enable auto launch.
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on everyday privacy, streaming, and pricing for individual users. We didn’t run our own IP leak protection checks or measure upload speeds. We also skipped smart DNS setups, smart TVs, and dedicated IP address add-ons. Older systems like macOS Catalina weren’t tested, and we didn’t troubleshoot issues downloading either app. We also didn’t check which locations use virtual servers.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Malwarebytes VPN |
| ⚡ Speed | Hotspot Shield |
| 🌍 Server Network | Hotspot Shield |
| 🎬 Streaming | Hotspot Shield |
| 🔒 Privacy | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🛡️ Extra Protection | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 📱 Device Support | Hotspot Shield |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Hotspot Shield |
🏆 WINNER: HOTSPOT SHIELD
Hotspot Shield wins 4 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Streaming, fast downloads, and multi-device households
Hotspot Shield and Malwarebytes VPN solve different problems. Hotspot Shield is a speed-first VPN with a big network. Malwarebytes is a privacy add-on for people who already trust its antivirus.
Malwarebytes does better on privacy and extra protection. Want malware, identity, and basic VPN coverage together? It’s a fair pick.
For most people, we recommend Hotspot Shield. Just know its logging and US base aren’t ideal for strict privacy.
Want more detail? Read our full Hotspot Shield review or our Malwarebytes Privacy VPN review.
More of Hotspot Shield Compared
Our Hotspot Shield VPN review covers more matchups. Here are three worth knowing:
Hotspot Shield wins on: a free version, a longer 45-day refund window, and a simpler app for beginners
NordVPN wins on: an audited no-logs policy, Double VPN routing, and built-in ad and malware blocking
Hotspot Shield vs ProtonVPN
Hotspot Shield wins on: Hydra-powered speed, broader streaming unblocking, and a Fire TV app
ProtonVPN wins on: Swiss privacy law, open-source apps, and a free plan without ads
Hotspot Shield vs Surfshark
Hotspot Shield wins on: a free plan, faster Hydra connections, and a longer refund period
Surfshark wins on: unlimited device connections, audited privacy, and lower long-term pricing
More of Malwarebytes VPN Compared
Here’s how Malwarebytes VPN stacks up against other VPNs:
Malwarebytes VPN vs ExpressVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: a cheaper antivirus bundle, MultiHop routing, and a 60-day refund window
ExpressVPN wins on: audited privacy, dependable streaming, and a dedicated router app
Malwarebytes wins on: bundled malware protection, Browser Guard, and identity monitoring on Total
ProtonVPN wins on: a no-cost plan, Secure Core servers, and independently verified no-logs claims
Malwarebytes VPN vs CyberGhost
Malwarebytes wins on: a refund window on every plan, WireGuard by default, and built-in antivirus pairing
CyberGhost wins on: dedicated streaming servers, a much larger network, and more device support
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hotspot Shield a good VPN?
Yes, for speed and streaming. The Hydra protocol is fast, and Premium unblocks major platforms. Privacy-focused users may prefer an audited provider outside the US.
What is the limitation of Hotspot Shield free?
The free version covers one device and one US location. It shows ads and skips streaming. Some reviews report a 500 MB daily cap, so check how much data you get.
Does Hotspot Shield VPN keep logs?
Partly. It logs your IP address during a session, then deletes it. It also keeps anonymized session length, bandwidth, and domain data.
Is Malwarebytes VPN any good?
It’s decent for basic privacy. You get WireGuard, AES-256 encryption, and a kill switch. The small network and weak streaming hold it back.
Does Malwarebytes VPN work on Netflix?
Not reliably. It has no dedicated streaming servers and often fails on Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Netflix access varies by server.
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