iTop VPN Review 2024: High Speeds and Robust Features

iTop VPN is a fast and affordable virtual privacy network (VPN) that offers security features like a kill switch and no logs policy. Unfortunately, not all of its features withstood our tests.

If you're looking for a simple VPN that doesn't noticeably impact your network speeds, iTop is one to consider. But if you're looking for greater reliability and more bells and whistles, this one doesn't quite make our best VPN list.

Want to know more? In this iTop VPN review, we’ll uncover its features, pricing, and Netflix streaming capabilities in depth. Let's go.

iTop VPN review at a glance

Price	$3.99-$11.99/mo
Free version	Yes
Max # of connected devices	5
# of servers	3,200+ servers in 100+ locations
VPN protocol	TCP, UDP, HTTPS
Encryption	AES-256
No-logs policy	No logs
Headquarters	Hong Kong, China
Netflix access	Yes
Learn more	Get iTop VPN

Our experience

Our experience with iTop VPN was overall positive, but did start off on the wrong foot.

When we went to download the Windows app on our Windows 11 laptop, Google Chrome actually blocked the download:

Like most people curious about VPNs, we're pretty security conscious so this was a red flag. That said, false positives do exist so we went ahead and downloaded it through Microsoft Edge. We had no further issues.

Once downloaded, all you have to do to get connected is click the big button in the middle of the app. Super simple, though it did take a while to find the option to log in so we could access our VIP features.

Once connected, we had fun exploring all their different options for viewing servers. You can:

• See the whole server list
• Search for a country
• Order the list by recommended, server name, latency, or distance
• View servers by category, including best for downloading, streaming, gaming, and social
• Choose the recommended server by clicking "Smart Location"
• See your favorited or most recent servers

All these options for seeing and organizing the servers makes it super easy for VPN lovers who want to be able to choose specific servers for each task.

Once we stopped playing around with the server lists, we went back to using our computer normally. There was no noticeable difference in speed or any hiccups. Overall a positive experience.

Who is iTop VPN best for?

• Recommended for those seeking an affordable VPN that prioritizes security.
  

iTop VPN boasts a user-friendly interface with security features and a no-logs policy that shows its commitment to user privacy. It's easy to navigate, offers server locations from around the world, and is ideal for beginners and anyone on a budget.

While there is a free version, the lack of certain streaming capabilities might deter binge-watchers. However, the pricing is competitive for long-term plans, and iTop VPN offers dedicated servers for streaming with the premium plans.

iTop VPN prices and subscriptions

iTop VPN offers different lengths of subscriptions ranging from $3.99-$11.99/mo, so you can choose the one that works best with your budget.

The extended plans provide substantial savings compared to the one-month option. For instance, the 12-month plan breaks down to a mere $3.99/mo (billed annually), offering competitive pricing that helps you save money on a VPN.

While some might not be keen on paying for a premium plan, the suite of features provided by iTop, especially on its longer-term plans, offers considerable value.

Plan	1 month	6 months	12 months
Price per month	$11.99/mo	$6.99/mo (billed every six months)	$3.99/mo (billed annually)

iTop VPN free vs. paid plan

When comparing iTop VPN's free and paid offerings, there's a clear distinction in terms of features and utility. The free version limits users to about 100 servers and a data cap of 700 MB/day, while the paid version offers unlimited data and over 1,800 servers, making it ideal for heavy internet users.

Additionally, the paid plan stands out with its specialty servers tailored for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. It also provides enhanced features like split tunneling, choice of IP address type, and integrated protection against malware and trackers.

Another notable drawback to the free plan is its inability to stream Netflix. We rigorously tested its servers across multiple regions, including the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada, and unfortunately, none provided access. 

Given the comprehensive suite of features available with the paid plan, it undoubtedly offers better value for those seeking a full-fledged VPN experience.

Plan	iTop VPN Free	iTop VPN Paid
Server network	100+ servers	3,200+ servers
Data cap	700 MB/day	Unlimited
Netflix access
Specialty streaming and gaming servers
Specialty torrenting servers
Kill switch
Split tunneling
Choice of static or dynamic IP address
Malware, tracker, and ad blocker

iTop VPN features

Although iTop VPN doesn’t offer top-notch VPN protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IKEv2, it has a server network of 1,800 servers in 40 countries and offers robust security features.

Let's take a closer look at what features it includes.

Server count and countries

• 3,200+ servers in 100+ locations

iTop VPN boasts an extensive network of 3,200+ servers spread out over 100+ locations. Such a widespread server distribution is commendable and places iTop VPN among the higher-tier VPNs in terms of server count and geographical diversity. It's beaten only by VPN heavyweights like NordVPN (which has about 6,800+ servers).

A large server count ensures that users experience less congestion and can achieve faster speeds.

The variety of countries, on the other hand, provides users with a broader spectrum of location options to bypass geo-restrictions, making it invaluable for those keen on accessing content from different parts of the world.

No-logs policy and headquarters

• iTop VPN logs policy: No logs
• iTop VPN headquarters: Hong Kong, China

It's evident that user privacy is a cornerstone of the iTop VPN service. Operating out of Hong Kong, iTop VPN boasts a strict no-logs policy. In simple terms, this means they don't record your browsing activities, ensuring your IP address and online footprints stay hidden.

Where a VPN service's headquarters is located can impact how user data is treated, especially in response to legal requests. Hong Kong's changing political landscape makes it essential for users to stay updated on potential implications for online privacy.

That said, China is not part of the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, or 14 Eyes Alliances, which means it has less power to track and share your information.

Security features

iTop VPN's suite of security features ensures a private and secure browsing experience.

• Encryption: iTop VPN offers AES-256 and Salsa20 (ChaCha20) 256-encryption. These levels of encryption ensure your data is protected and safe from prying eyes.
  
• Split tunneling: This feature lets you decide which apps or sites use the VPN and which access the internet directly. For a more customized experience, check the Privacy Protection tab in the app.
  
• Kill switch: An essential safeguard, the kill switch disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops, ensuring your privacy remains intact. Activate it under the Privacy Protection tab.
  
• VPN protocols: iTop VPN offers protocols like TCP, UDP, and HTTPS. If you're unsure about your choice, let the app auto-select for optimal performance. Manual selection is available in the Settings for those with specific preferences.
• Static and dynamic IPs: iTop VPN gives you the option to configure which type of IP address you'd like to be assigned when connected. Choosing a dynamic address can help you stay even more untraceable. You can make changes in the Privacy Protection tab.

iTop VPN also includes secure P2P torrent downloading and VIP servers for gaming, streaming, and social media. Also offered are features to block malware, adware, and trackers.

iTop VPN test results

In our iTop VPN review, our primary goal was to evaluate its performance on various fronts. We're aware of the diverse reasons why you should use a VPN, from maintaining anonymity to accessing geo-restricted content, which underscores the importance of a thorough evaluation.

So we put iTop VPN to the test.

Speed tests

• Speed test results: iTop VPN only lowered our download speeds by an average of 27%.
  

We found iTop VPN's speed to be impressive. The speed tests were conducted on speedtest.net with a Windows 11 device based on the East Coast of Canada. Before activating the VPN, our baseline internet speeds were high, with a download speed of 228.35 Mbps, an upload speed of 54.77 Mbps, and a latency of 15 ms.

When we connected to servers in Canada, the U.S., the U.K., and Australia, we were impressed by the very stable speed levels. Our download speed only dropped by 20% to 37%, which isn't a terrible range considering how far away Australia is. 

You should always expect some drop in speed when using a VPN, but some servers are faster than others. Coming in at around 182 Mbps when connected in Canada or the U.S. is still a very usable speed for all types of activities, including high-intensity ones like streaming and playing online games.

iTop VPN speed test results

Test type	No VPN	Canada to Canada	Canada to US	Canada to EU	Canada to AU
Download speed	228.35 Mbps	181.34 Mbps	182.34 Mbps	163.46 Mbps	143.38 Mbps
Upload speed	54.77 Mbps	54.71 Mbps	53.52 Mbps	54.01 Mbps	50.8 Mbps
Latency (ping)	15 ms	38 Mbps	40 ms	105 ms	239 ms
Download speed % difference	N/A	-21%	-20%	-28%	-37%
Upload speed % difference	N/A	-0.1%	-2%	-1%	-7%
Latency % difference	N/A	153%	167%	600%	1,493%

iTop VPN Netflix tests

• Netflix test results: Pass
  

iTop VPN puts an emphasis on unblocking geo-restricted streaming content, thanks to their entire section of servers suggested for streaming certain content in specific websites.

We were able to flawlessly access Netflix in Canada, the U.S., and the U.K. while connected to servers (even the ones not specifically categorized as being for streaming).

Unfortunately, when we tried to connect to Australian servers, Netflix detected that we were using a VPN and blocked us from watching content.

But this is a common issue that comes up in our tests, so it's not too surprising.

iTop VPN Netflix test results

	Canada to U.S.	Canada to U.K.	Canada to Canada	Canada to AU
Did it work with Netflix?

DNS and WebRTC leak tests

• DNS leak test results: Passed
• WebRTC leak test results: Passed

The Domain Name System (DNS) is the internet's equivalent of a phonebook. It translates easily remembered domain names into machine-recognizable IP addresses. When a VPN doesn't route DNS queries securely, a DNS leak occurs, potentially revealing your online activities. For iTop VPN, our tests showed it safeguards against these leaks, ensuring private and encrypted browsing.

WebRTC enables direct browser-to-browser interactions, facilitating features like video calls. With a WebRTC leak, there is a risk of revealing your real IP address, even behind a VPN's shield. Fortunately, our WebRTC test for iTop VPN confirmed its effectiveness in preventing such leaks and keeping your online identity concealed.

Having passed both crucial tests, iTop VPN emerges as a reliable choice for users seeking a blend of security and privacy. It underscores the importance of using a VPN that emphasizes these protective layers, keeping you safe online.

Kill switch test

• Kill switch test results: Failed

We test kill switches by opening up IPleak.net and switching servers while it runs. If the kill switch is working properly, our real IP address should never show up because the VPN should block the internet until one of its servers is connected again.

Unfortunately, iTop VPN failed the kill switch test. When we switched from a U.S. server to a Canadian one, our real DNS address in New Brunswick was detected. 

iTop VPN compatibility

With iTop VPN, you're covered across a range of devices :

• Windows
• Mac
• iOS
• Android

This ensures that wherever you are or whatever device you're using, whether it’s a PC, laptop, or mobile phone, your online experience remains consistently secure.

iTop VPN customer support

iTop VPN's customer service consists of online guides and an email form you can access through the app or on their site.

Email

While it may not provide the immediacy of 24/7 live chat, the email form does promise responses within a 24 to 48-hour window.

It's recommended that you use the chat within the app itself for a faster response, likely because they'll be able to gleam more information from the information in the app. You can find it in the Feedback tab in your settings.

Online guide

On top of email, iTop VPN has an easily accessible and comprehensive online guide, which consists of both FAQs and full User Manuals (tailored to each app and platform you're using the app on). 

These guides are thoughtfully laid out and easy to follow, ensuring that users, whether tech-savvy or novices, can set up and optimize their VPN experience with ease.

Top alternatives

While iTop VPN brings a range of features to the table, it's always wise to be aware of other market players when making an informed choice about your online privacy. Here, we've shortlisted three of the best VPN services that have consistently garnered positive reviews:

FAQs

Bottom line: Is iTop VPN good?

iTop VPN, with its user-friendly design, offers solid security features, an expansive and fast server network, and a straightforward pricing model. The service shines particularly for beginners and budget-conscious users, with both free and competitively priced premium plans.

However, for security-conscious users, the failure of the kill switch and Chrome blocking the download may leave a bad taste in your mouth.

If your primary goal is basic online security and privacy without breaking the bank, exploring some of the best VPN services, like NordVPN or Surfshark, might be more suitable.