Hide My Ass

HMA VPN, formerly known as HideMyAss, is a long-standing VPN provider renowned for its expansive server network, user-friendly interface, and privacy features. With over 1,100 servers in 290+ locations across nearly every country, HMA targets users seeking global access, online anonymity, and ease of use. It is especially popular among those who value simple setup, streaming, and browsing from diverse regions.

Features & Specs

• Server Network: 1,100+ servers in 290+ locations, with 20 Gbps speeds
• Supported Devices: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, smart TVs, browsers, game consoles
• Simultaneous Connections: 5 devices (Individual plan), 10 devices (Family plan)
• Protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, L2TP, PPTP, WireGuard
• Security: AES-256 encryption, kill switch, IP Shuffle, DNS/WebRTC/IPv6 leak protection, no-logs policy
• Extra Tools: Split tunneling, Lightning Connect, Smart Kill Switch, IP Shuffle, ad/tracker blocker
• Streaming Support: Servers optimized for streaming; works well with Netflix but can be inconsistent with other platforms
• Trial/Guarantee: 7-day free trial (payment method required), 30-day money-back guarantee

Performance

HMA VPN offers fast connection speeds, especially on local servers, thanks to its 20 Gbps infrastructure and Lightning Connect feature, which automatically selects the fastest available server. However, performance can be inconsistent on distant servers, with higher latency and noticeable speed drops, making it less ideal for gaming or high-bandwidth activities compared to top competitors. Streaming support is mixed: Netflix and some other platforms work, but others like Amazon Prime Video and Hulu may not.

Privacy & Security

HMA uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. Its no-logs policy ensures that user activity and connection logs are not stored, and this policy has been updated following past privacy concerns. Features like a kill switch, IP Shuffle, and DNS leak protection further enhance security. While HMA has improved its privacy stance, its history and session logging practices (such as recording session timestamps and bandwidth) may concern privacy purists.

Usability

HMA is known for its intuitive, beginner-friendly apps across all major platforms. The interface is clean and supports features like Lightning Connect for one-click fast server selection and Smart Kill Switch for app-specific protection. Setup is straightforward, and users can install HMA on unlimited devices, but only 5 (or 10 with Family plan) can be connected simultaneously. Customer support is available via live chat and email, and the knowledge base is comprehensive.

Pricing & Plans

• Free Trial: 7 days, $0 total cost, requires payment method, auto-renews to annual plan if not canceled
• 1 Year Plan: 12 months duration, $59.88 total cost, $4.99 monthly, 5 devices included
• 3 Years Plan: 36 months duration, $107.64 total cost, $2.99 monthly, 5 devices included
• Family Plan: Available for 1 or 3 years, varies in price, supports up to 10 devices
• Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans

Payment options: Credit card, PayPal, iDeal, Webmoney (no anonymous payments).

Notes: Renewal rates may increase after the first term. No true monthly plan; minimum commitment is one year.

Free Version and Trials

7-Day Free Trial: Available on all platforms; requires payment details and auto-renews to a one-year plan if not canceled before expiry.

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: All paid plans include a 30-day refund policy for risk-free testing.

Permanent Free Version: Not available.

Plan Options

• Free Trial: Free, available on all platforms, 7 days with payment method required and auto-renews
• Paid Plans (after trial): Varies, available on all platforms, annual or multi-year subscriptions only

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Huge server network with global coverage
• Fast local speeds and easy-to-use apps
• Strong encryption and updated no-logs policy
• Innovative features: IP Shuffle, Lightning Connect, Smart Kill Switch
• 7-day free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

• No permanent free plan
• Inconsistent streaming and gaming performance on distant servers
• Only 5 simultaneous connections (10 on Family plan)
• Privacy history and some session logging may concern some users
• No anonymous payment methods
• No true monthly subscription option

Comparison

HMA stands out for its vast server network and user-friendly design. However, it lags behind top-tier competitors like NordVPN and Surfshark in terms of privacy transparency, advanced features, and streaming reliability. Its pricing is competitive for long-term plans but less flexible due to the lack of monthly billing. The 7-day free trial and 30-day guarantee offer risk-free ways to test the service.

Conclusion

HMA VPN is a solid choice for users seeking easy global access, fast local speeds, and a simple interface. Its extensive server network and improved privacy features make it suitable for general browsing and streaming, though privacy enthusiasts and power users may prefer alternatives with stronger privacy records and more consistent performance. The 7-day free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee provide ample opportunity to try HMA risk-free.