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HTTP/HTTPS Proxies vs SOCKS Proxies

If you're choosing between HTTP/HTTPS proxies and SOCKS proxies, this guide explains the key differences so you can make the right choice.

What Are HTTP/HTTPS Proxies?

HTTP/HTTPS proxies are optimized for web traffic and are best used for:

  • SEO tools and rank trackers
  • Web automation and scraping
  • Browsing and accessing websites

Advantages:

  • Fast and efficient for web usage
  • Can modify headers, cache data, and filter content

Limitations: Only supports HTTP/HTTPS protocols, not usable for apps like email or FTP.

What Are SOCKS Proxies?

SOCKS proxies work on the transport layer and support all types of traffic, making them highly versatile:

  • Gaming platforms and apps
  • Email clients (IMAP, SMTP)
  • Torrenting and P2P software
  • VoIP, FTP, and more

Advantages:

  • Works with all protocols (TCP and UDP with SOCKS5)
  • Passes raw data with no interference

Limitations: Not optimized for web traffic, and lacks filtering or caching.

Comparison Table

Feature HTTP/HTTPS Proxies SOCKS Proxies
Protocol Support HTTP, HTTPS only All protocols (TCP, UDP with SOCKS5)
Use Case Browsing, SEO, scraping Games, email, torrents, VoIP
Speed Optimized for web General-purpose
Traffic Handling Can modify/filter traffic Pass-through only

Which One Should You Choose?

  • HTTP/HTTPS proxies – Best for anything web-based (SEO, automation, web scraping)
  • SOCKS proxies – Ideal for applications that use other protocols or require full traffic support

Current Availability

At HighProxies, we currently offer HTTP/HTTPS proxies. SOCKS proxies will be added in the coming months.

Order HTTP/HTTPS Proxies