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ExpressVPN Review: Price, Security, Speed and Deals

ExpressVPN is a leading virtual private network service provider that aims to provide privacy and anonymity to online users. The average price of ExpressVPN is around $10.42 per month, depending on the package the user signs up for. ExpressVPN has three packages, extending for 12 months, six months or one month. The average speed of ExpressVPN is anywhere from 30% to 50% of the user’s internet connection speed without a VPN. ExpressVPN supports Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android and routers, along with Chrome, Edge and Firefox.

ExpressVPN has servers located in 94 countries and supports various VPN protocols, such as Lightway, IKEv2, OpenVPN over UDP and OpenVPN over TCP, and L2TP/IPSec. 

ExpressVPN Review

ExpressVPN is mainly used to protect data, hide IP addresses, change locations to unblock geo-restricted content, and gain anonymity online. In terms of usability, ExpressVPN is great as the signup process is straightforward, the apps run smoothly, and the interface is simple. ExpressVPN is one of the more popular VPN services in the market, with over 3 million active customers. 

Table of Contents

What is the Cost of ExpressVPN?

The cost of ExpressVPN is $8.32 per month on the one-year package or the annual package. Users have to pay $99.95 after every 12 months. The average price of ExpressVPN is around $10.42 per month, though, since shorter subscription packages cost more. ExpressVPN’s one-month package costs $12.95 per month. The only factor affecting cost is the number of months the subscription package lasts. 

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So, how much does ExpressVPN cost per month? ExpressVPN costs $8.32 per month on the one-year package, $12.95 per month on the one-month package and $9.99 per month on the six-month package. 

Users who find that price tag too expensive can always take a look at some of the best free VPNs in the market today and the associated risks.

What are ExpressVPN’s Deals? 

The deals of ExpressVPN service are given below.

  1. One-Month Package: The one-month package involves ultra-fast VPN servers, live chat support that is always available, and dedicated apps with top-of-the-line encryption technologies. The cost is $8.32 per month. 
  2. Six-Month Package: The six-month package involves fast customer support, high-performance servers in over 90 countries, and top-notch encryption and security features. The cost of this plan is $9.99 per month. 
  3. 12-Month Package: The 12-month package involves the same ExpressVPN customer support benefits, thousands of fast servers, custom apps for all major platforms and world-class security options. The cost is $8.32 per month. 

The most popular ExpressVPN package is the 12-month package, for which the ExpressVPN cost is $8.32 per month. 

How Much does ExpressVPN Cost after 2 Years?

After 24 months, ExpressVPN costs the same as the user’s subscription package. This translates to $99.95 for the 12-month package, $59.95 for the six-month package and $12.95 for the one-month package. 

Usually, the 24 month period is important for services that offer two-year deals with big discounts. ExpressVPN doesn’t have a two-year deal. 

What is the Best VPN Discount for ExpressVPN?

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ExpressPVN does sometimes run a 15-month deal where users only have to pay for 12 months to get 15 months’ worth of VPN protection. The best way to take advantage of these cost-saving options is to run a quick Google search for ExpressVPN discounts and deals.

Another way to have access to the best deals is to either subscribe to a YouTube channel that has an affiliate program with ExpressVPN or check the coupons page on ExpressVPN’s company website. 

Does ExpressVPN have a Refund Policy?
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Yes, ExpressVPN does have a refund policy that lasts 30 days from the date of purchase of a specific ExpressVPN subscription package. This is also the service’s money-back guarantee. Users who want to avail the refund policy after 30 days can do so, but in such cases, ExpressVPN will reserve the right to grant or deny a refund on the total amount of the subscription package. 

For a refund after the initial 30 days of purchase, the subscriber has to show service unavailability for the time period in question and that ExpressVPN customer support was not available to resolve any problems.

ExpressVPN takes seven days to transfer the refund into the subscriber’s bank account, taking into consideration exchange rates and cryptocurrency prices if applicable. Users who have purchased ExpressVPN subscription packages via the Apple App Store do not qualify for the 30-day money-back guarantee and instead have to contact Apple Support. For others, an email to support@expressvpn.com is enough to start the refund process. 

What are the Advantages of ExpressVPN?

The advantages of ExpressVPN are given below.

  1. Enhanced Privacy: ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands and has a zero-logs policy that has been audited multiple times and hence ensures maximum user privacy. 
  2. Advanced Kill Switch: ExpressVPN has one of the most effective kill switch features, also known as Network Lock, in the VPN industry. The kill switch can cut internet access to the subscriber’s device the moment the VPN connection drops.
  3. Split Tunneling: Very few VPN services offer a split tunneling feature, and ExpressVPN is one of those services. The split tunneling feature allows users to select which apps require VPN protection. Users can hide internet activity while connecting to a remote printer on a different network without having to disable the VPN service. 
  4. Fast VPN Servers: ExpressVPN’s reputation as a fast VPN service is unmatched. The user’s internet connection conditions are also very important, but with thousands of highly-optimized VPN servers ready to serve customers, ExpressVPN is able to offer a smooth streaming experience. 
  5. Strong Encryption: ExpressVPN makes use of AES 256-bit encryption to protect user data during transit.
  6. Safe Protocols: ExpressVPN apps use OpenVPN, Lightway and other protocols for the best combination of speed and security. 
  7. Hundreds of Servers: ExpressVPN has fast servers located in over 90 countries and 148 locations around the world. Overall, ExpressVPN has thousands of servers, which ensure smooth streaming and torrenting.
  8. Customer Support: ExpressVPN has the best customer support out of all the elite VPN service providers. There are a few ways subscribers can seek help if something is not working properly, such as using the 24/7 live chat.

What are the Disadvantages of ExpressVPN? 

The disadvantages of ExpressVPN are given below.

  1. Expensive: ExpressVPN is slightly on the expensive side when compared to other VPN services, with the one-month plan going for $12.95 per month and no two-year or three-year deal that subscribers can take advantage of for massive discounts. 
  2. Less Simultaneous Connections: ExpressVPN may have great dedicated apps for all major platforms, but the service only offers five simultaneous connections per account, which is slightly on the lower side, especially for people working online or from home. 
  3. Lack of Double VPN: With more surveillance programs coming online each year, security features that were once considered extra or bonus are now necessary. A double-hop or double-VPN feature is one of them, and ExpressVPN’s apps do not offer this) function.

How is the Speed of ExpressVPN?

The average speed of ExpressVPN is around 40% (download speed) of the user’s internet connection speed without a VPN. ExpressVPN also decreased download speeds by 50% on average. 

The maximum speed ExpressVPN is able to deliver is 60% of the user’s internet connection without a VPN. Still, if a user connects to a server nearby (the closest one to their location), speeds won’t be reduced as much. 

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Considering ExpressVPN’s minimum speed, users should expect anywhere from 10% to 30% of the normal internet connection’s speed without a VPN.

The results may not rank ExpressVPN among the fastest VPNs in the world, but the service does get close enough.

Factors that affect ExpressVPN’s speed include network conditions, the user’s location, the server connected to, the general load on the server and the internet service provider’s network on a given day, and the tools used to measure speed drops. 

Compared to other elite VPN service providers like NordVPN and CyberGhost, ExpressVPN is very competitive. NordVPN decreases download speeds by 30% on average, while CyberGhost VPN decreases speed by just 15%. 

How is the Security of ExpressVPN?

The security of ExpressVPN is top-notch. The service boosts data security by using encrypted DNS and operating on a zero-knowledge basis, meaning ExpressVPN doesn’t know anything about the user’s activities on the company’s VPN servers. Apart from that, ExpressVPN makes use of industry-standard AES 256-bit encryption to protect data and provide anonymity. Such arrangements make ExpressVPN one of the most secure VPNs in the market.

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ExpressVPN also has 100% RAM-only servers, meaning that user information is not saved, and as soon as the power is cut from the servers, all the data is deleted from existence.

ExpressVPN protects against all types of IP leaks. Unlike some VPN services, ExpressVPN does not have antivirus features such as ad-block or anti-malware or malicious URL detection features. 

In terms of privacy, ExpressVPN outshines competition for the service’s zero-logs policy and RAM-only servers. The fact that ExpressVPN comes under the jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands is, on the whole, a plus since the territory does not have to conform to strict data retention laws in the European Union and the United States. 

ExpressVPN also offers advanced security through the kill switch and perfect forward secrecy features. With help from the industry’s top secure protocols, such as OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, IKEv2 and Lightway, ExpressVPN is able to balance security and speed while keeping data private.

For even more security and privacy, ExpressVPN offers web browser extensions for all major web browsers. 

What Encryption Technologies does ExpressVPN Use?

The encryption technologies ExpressVPN uses are given below.

  • AES 256-bit GCM
  • D/TLS 1.2

Encryption technologies such as the ones used by ExpressVPN, AES 256-bit and D/TLS 1.2, are important because there is a great need to secure and hide data in an age when surveillance programs are only becoming more complex and invasive. 

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The importance of encryption ties into the fact that almost all sensitive data anywhere in the world is encrypted. Whether through a business network or a home network, users sharing files with each other will naturally attract hackers and other cybercriminals. The most effective way to thwart hacking attempts is to encrypt data. Encryption is important for hiding data from internet companies that want to collect and sell data, from hackers exploiting users’ personal information, and from governments that spy on citizens.

ExpressVPN has benefited from the latest developments in encryption adoption and deployment by providing easy-to-access VPN apps with advanced security capabilities for users who want more privacy online. 

More specifically, ExpressVPN has leveraged modern concepts such as tunneling, where services like ExpressVPN place data packets inside other data packets in a process called encapsulation and then send the packets through secure tunnels. ExpressVPN encrypts the sent data packets as well. Advances in encryption technologies mean ExpressVPN can make sure that only the VPN server and the user are able to look at the contents of the data packets.

Is There Any Leak Detected for ExpressVPN?

No, there were no leaks detected for ExpressVPN. ExpressVPN protects against all sorts of DNS leaks, which is important because a lack of DNS leaks ensures that users’ data is properly secured and hidden internet traffic is hidden.

Does ExpressVPN have a Kill Switch?

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Yes, ExpressVPN does have a kill switch feature for securing data even when the VPN’s connection drops. With the help of the kill switch feature, the encrypted data stays encrypted or otherwise does not leave the user’s device as the kill switch cuts the user’s internet connection when a VPN connection drop is detected. ExpressVPN offers the kill switch feature on all major platforms, including Windows and macOS. 

The kill switch feature, also known as Network Lock, is important because without this function, there would be no way of keeping data safe in case of a sudden VPN connection drop and maintaining privacy without a VPN.

What are the Privacy Policies of ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN has a fairly straightforward and transparent privacy policy document. This is good because, without a reasonably acceptable privacy policy document, there is no way for ExpressVPN to rank high as a private VPN service and continue to attract more customers. The privacy policy of any VPN service is a legally binding document providing details regarding how the company uses customer data that is collected.

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ExpressVPN guarantees a good privacy policy relative to other VPN services by undergoing regular independent audits that check whether or not the company is following through on all the promises made about collecting and disposing of data and whether or not that makes ExpressVPN truly private. The independent audit then gives ExpressVPN a stamp of approval, which the service can show as a guarantee. 

Online users interested in ExpressVPN should know that although ExpressVPN has an acceptable privacy policy, the service does keep some logs. Almost all VPN services collect some basic logs—even the ones that claim a 100% zero logs policy—for maintenance purposes, and ExpressVPN is no exception. Some of the information that ExpressVPN collects include connection statistics, IP addresses, diagnostic data, account information and support logs. 

Another way ExpressVPN guarantees more privacy is by overlapping internet activities of users who have connected to the same server so that connecting a specific piece of activity to a specific user becomes almost impossible. Moreover, ExpressVPN only collects the data mentioned above when the user connects to a given VPN server and not when the app is not activated. 

Apart from that, some of the data collection processes can be turned off from within the app.

Does ExpressVPN Provide DNS Privacy?

Any time a user tries to access a website, a domain name (such as www.google.com) has to be typed into the web browser’s URL bar. The web browser has to transform the domain name into the relevant IP address to allow the user to land at the website. To do that, a Domain Name System (DNS) transaction is required. The task of sending a request to a DNS server and receiving the response—which is the website, app or service the user wants to interact with—generates data, and data related to DNS transactions is public. DNS privacy is the concept of implementing mechanisms to ensure DNS transaction privacy so that internet service providers and the people behind nameservers and DNS resolvers do not record DNS data and try to sell that information to marketing companies. 

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ExpressVPN provides DNS privacy and protects the user’s internet traffic and DNS queries. ExpressVPN does this by owning and running encrypted DNS on the VPN servers that users connect to. With the help of encrypted DNS, ExpressVPN can ensure zero connection and activity logs. ExpressVPN uses 256-bit encryption for VPN servers, resulting in faster DNS queries. 

DNS privacy is important because without such privacy, the user’s DNS queries—meaning the websites and services the user visits and the information that the process of going to websites generates—would not be private. DNS privacy on ExpressVPN servers is also important because the service can guard against hijacking, filtering and DNS blocking. 

ExpressVPN handles DNS privacy by running encrypted DNS on VPN servers. Every time the user makes a DNS request, ExpressVPN handles the request without exposing the information to third parties. The DNS privacy feature is enabled by default, and the success rate is as good as DNS servers run by other reputable companies, such as Google, Cloudflare and OpenDNS. 

What Operating Systems are Compatible with ExpressVPN?

The operating systems that are compatible with ExpressVPN are given below.

  • Mac
  • Windows
  • iOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Routers

Operating systems are important for a VPN like ExpressVPN since each operating system is suitable for certain VPN tools while detrimental to others. ExpressVPN is one of the few VPNs able to offer almost the same VPN experience across all operating systems. 

With that said, the protocols used on one operating system may not be the best for another operating system. In such cases, ExpressVPN needs to ensure the service can adapt to the strengths of the given operating system while reducing the negative points. 

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For example, the iOS operating system is more strict with data logging activities and permissions than Android. As such, ExpressVPN needs to find new ways to ensure that the service’s apps provide enough security to data on an open operating system like Android while not hurting the development of more security features for iOS since iOS restricts how much resource access an app has.

Which Streaming Platforms is ExpressVPN Available on?

The streaming platforms ExpressVPN is available on are given below.

  1. Netflix
  2. Apple TV
  3. FireStick
  4. Roku
  5. Hulu

ExpressVPN is one of the best streaming VPNs in the business today, as users do not have to spend time learning how to access streaming services with ExpressVPN. That’s because of the streamlined VPN apps. Connecting to a good streaming server should allow users access to Apple TV, Roku, FireStick, Netflix and Hulu. Readers interested in learning more should learn how to access streaming services with ExpressVPN.

1. Netflix 

How to use ExpressVPN for Netflix is something a lot of online users want to know, and ExpressVPN makes the process very straightforward. Online users need to go to ExpressVPN’s website, sign up for a subscription package, download the VPN app supporting the user’s device, install the VPN app, launch the ExpressVPN app and then input the login credentials. After that, users need to connect to a server located in the United States, as the most comprehensive Netflix library is the U.S. Netflix library. Then, go to the Netflix website, log in and start streaming. 

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While downloading the ExpressVPN app, users make sure to download the app specific to the operating system of the device that needs protection. 

Some of the common solutions to ExpressVPN not working on Windows, Android or essentially any platform involve internet connectivity. Without a stable internet connection, ExpressVPN Netflix access can’t work. One common way to solve a lack of internet connectivity is to reset or power off the router and then wait for one minute before powering the router on again. And if resetting the router doesn’t work, the best route forward is to call the customer support of the internet service provider company.

ExpressVPN not working on macOS devices means the app is freezing all the time or is unable to establish a stable VPN connection. In these cases, updating the ExpressVPN app is usually the easiest fix. A somewhat manual way to get ExpressVPN working on macOS is to go to “Applications” and then click on ExpressVPN to move the app to the bin. Then, subscribers should use the macOS Finder feature to find ExpressVPN again and delete other files associated with the app present on the macOS device. When that is done, users need to visit ExpressVPN’s website and download the latest available app version.

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Sometimes ExpressVPN not working on Android is because of server issues. To solve the issue, users should re-launch the app and change the server location (not necessarily the country location).

For more details, readers should learn how to use ExpressVPN for Netflix.

2. Apple TV

Using ExpressVPN to watch Apple TV (more specifically, the content available on Apple TV via Apple TV+) from any location worldwide is as easy as going to ExpressVPN’s website, signing up for a subscription package, downloading the VPN app for the device’s operating system, and then installing and launching the VPN app. Once the VPN app is launched, users need to input the correct login credentials and then connect to a server located preferably in the U.S. since the quality of content available in the U.S. version of Apple TV is better. Once the subscriber has connected to a U.S. server, the only thing left to do is to go to Apple TV’s website, subscribe to a package, and start streaming securely and privately without any throttling issues. 

When downloading the ExpressVPN VPN app, users should ensure the VPN app is for the correct device. Apple TV+ is available for Android devices as well, so Android users should go to the Google Play Store to download the app. iOS and macOS can get the app from the Apple App Store. The mobile apps should allow ExpressVPN Netflix access. 

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To view Apple TV+ on Apple TV, ExpressVPN recommends that users install the VPN on a router and then provide internet access to the Apple TV media streaming device via the router, as the entire network would have protection. If users have any issues, ExpressVPN’s website provides detailed guides on how to install the VPN on different routers.

ExpressVPN also offers MediaStreamer, which can help stream content on Apple TV. Users need to go to ExpressVPN’s website and navigate to the “My Account” page. From the Dashboard, subscribers need to click on “DNS Settings” and then go to IP address registration. Then, click “Register my IP address” and toggle on “Automatically Register my IP Address.” From the Dashboard screen, go to “Set Up Devices” and then click on Apple TV. From there, subscribers should click on “MediaStreamer DNS Server IP Address” and make a note of the IP address. 

After that, the subscriber should open the Apple TV Settings app (accessible via the Apple TV media player) and then go to “Network.” Then, click on “WiFi” and select the WiFi connection the Apple TV is connected to. After that, click on “Configure DNS” and then “Manual.” From the next screen, the user should input the MediaStreamer DNS server IP address noted before. Click done and then restart the Apple TV device. A detailed guide explaining the steps is available on ExpressVPN’s website. 

ExpressVPN not working on Apple TV usually means there is a problem with the MediaStreamer Smart DNS feature. Most of the time, a MediaStreamer error leads to messages such as “Failed to load video” or about a foreign content library not showing up.

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To solve such problems, subscribers should confirm that the MediaSteramer DNS server IP address is correct. Sometimes, MediaStreamer isn’t able to unblock a given streaming service, so there’s nothing the user can do. At other times, the Apple TV device may not be connected to the same network as the AirPlay device, which may cause issues with casting. 

For more details, readers should learn how to use ExpressVPN for Apple TV.

3. FireStick

ExpressVPN is available on the FireStick platform. To install ExpressVPN on FireStick, users should go to the Amazon App Store via the home screen by clicking “Find,” then “Search,” and then typing “ExpressVPN.”

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Next, users need to launch the ExpressVPN FireStick app, input account login credentials and connect to a suitable server in the U.S. for streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video and the U.K. for BBC iPlayer. 

While downloading ExpressVPN, subscribers need to make sure there is enough disk space on FireStick. In the case of low storage or memory, FireStick starts to malfunction, and apps like ExpressVPN cannot provide a stable service.

Issues such as ExpressVPN not working on FireStick regularly arise due to updates and patches to both the ExpressVPN app and the FireStick platform. Hence, if ExpressVPN not working on FireStick is an issue for an ExpressVPN subscriber, the first thing to do is to uninstall and re-install the ExpressVPN app on FireStick after restarting FireStick. If that does not work, subscribers should clear the FireStick app cache by going to “Settings,” then “Applications,” and then “Manage Installed Applications.” From there, the user should select the ExpressVPN app and click the options “Clear Data” and “Clear Cache.”

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Changing the server the subscriber wants to connect to in the first place can also help. If re-installing the ExpressVPN app doesn’t fix the problem, the only step left is to try and change protocols.

For more details, readers should learn how to use ExpressVPN for FireStick.

4. Roku

Roku is another streaming platform ExpressVPN is available on. To get ExpressVPN on Roku, users have to install ExpressVPN on a compatible router. The ExpressVPN website has detailed guides on how to install the VPN on a router. Usually, users will need to access the router’s admin panel, go to the Upgrade Firmware option and then select the file available on ExpressVPN’s website. Then, subscribers need to set up the Roku device and account. 

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To set up a Roku account, users should start with setting the Roku device’s location to the location of the VPN router. Users who have already set up a Roku account with another location will have to create a new Roku account with the same location as the VPN router.

When setting up a new Roku account, go to the Roku signup page and then activate a VPN server via the ExpressVPN app. Heading back to the Roku signup page should enable Roku to determine the current location of the Roku account, which will match the VPN server’s location. The subscriber can skip the payment selection screen and then keep clicking through the prompts to finish the process. 

On the Windows platform, the user will need to create a virtual server by going to “Network” and “Internet Settings” and then to “Mobile Hot-Spot.” Then, the user can share the internet connection with other available devices. Then, from the left-side panel, the user should click on “Status” and then on “Adapter Options.” Assuming the subscriber has already installed ExpressVPN on the Windows device, there should be an ExpressVPN icon available on the “Adapter Options” window. Subscribers need to right-click the ExpressVPN icon and then go to Adapter and then to Properties. Under the sharing tab, the subscriber should allow other users on the same network to connect through the Windows device, then click on the related connection and hit “OK.” When done, the user needs to use the ExpressVPN app to connect to a server located in the U.S. for a U.S. Roku account.

With a virtual router set up, subscribers need to go to owner.roku.com and then select the option that says the U.S. Then, the subscriber will need to input a U.S. zip code, which is easily available online. After that, the subscriber should reset the Roku streaming device by holding down the reset button available on the back of the Roku device. Once the Roku device is back online, the subscriber should log in to get a U.S. Roku account, go to Roku settings, then to network, and then set up a wireless connection. The Roku screen should show all the available WiFi connections. From the list, the user should pick the one that was created using ExpressVPN via the Windows device. 

The above steps are usually enough to start streaming U.S. content on Roku since there is no ExpressVPN Roku app.

an image with Roku opened on TV

As with any other streaming platform, ExpressVPN not working on Roku isn’t something rare. Most of the time, any Roku issues can be resolved either by changing the location of the server or tinkering with the settings of the antivirus product installed on the system. As always, the first step should always be to restart the Roku device and make sure that both Roku and ExpressVPN apps are fully updated.

If ExpressVPN is unable to change the content libraries on Roku, the user should make sure the account that’s currently signed in on Roku is a U.S.-based one.

For more details, readers should learn how to use ExpressVPN for Roku.

5. Hulu

ExpressVPN is available on Hulu. The easiest way to enable ExpressVPN Hulu access is to go to ExpressVPN’s website, sign up for a suitable VPN package, download the relevant VPN app, and then install and launch the app. iOS and Android device users can also download and install the ExpressVPN app on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Once ExpressVPN is launched, subscribers need to input the proper login details created during the registration process, sign in, connect to a server in the U.S., and launch the Hulu website or open the Hulu app. On the Hulu app, users can sign up for a subscription package and start streaming while making sure ExpressVPN is connected to a U.S. server.

an image with Hulu homepage

The most important thing for subscribers to consider here is the relevant ExpressVPN app. Since Hulu is a streaming platform and not a streaming device, subscribers need to make sure that the ExpressVPN app matches the operating system of the device Hulu is installed on. Also, users should first connect to an ExpressVPN U.S. server and then go to the Hulu website or app to stream content. 

If subscribers have already signed in to Hulu or tried using the streaming platform before installing ExpressVPN, the best way forward is to clear the cache. This process is different for each Android device, but generally, subscribers should go to the “Settings” menu and then to “Applications” and then click on the ExpressVPN app item to select “Clear Data” and “Clear Cache.” 

ExpressVPN not working on Hulu when accessed through a web browser is easily fixed by deleting cookies. The steps will generally remain the same regardless of the web browser. But assuming the subscriber is using Chrome, users need to click the icon with three vertical dots in the top-right corner of the Chrome screen, go to “Settings,” then “Privacy and Security,” then “Clear Browsing Data.” Finally, hit the checkmark on all the options to delete the cookies. 

an image with Hulu opened on tablet

If that does not fix the problem, users should go to the ExpressVPN app and change servers (not necessarily the country). Hulu regularly blocks servers used by VPN services. If that is the case, subscribers should wait before ExpressVPN adds new servers that work with Hulu to the server network. Alternatively, subscribers can always get in touch with the ExpressVPN customer support staff and ask for a server that currently works with Hulu.

Changing the protocol being used, disabling an antivirus program temporarily and manually changing DNS settings can also help to resolve ExpressVPN Hulu issues. 

For more details, readers should learn how to use ExpressVPN for Hulu.

What Countries can ExpressVPN be Used in?

The countries ExpressVPN can be used in are given below. 

  • Argentina
  • Bahamas
  • Bolivia
  • Brazil
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • Colombia
  • Costa Rica
  • Ecuador
  • Guatemala
  • Mexico
  • Panama
  • Peru
  • United States 
  • Uruguay
  • Venezuela
  • South Africa
  • Kenya
  • Israel
  • Egypt
  • Algeria
  • Vietnam
  • Uzbekistan
  • Thailand
  • Taiwan
  • Sri Lanka
  • South Korea
  • Singapore
  • Philippines
  • Pakistan
  • New Zealand
  • Nepal
  • Myanmar
  • Mongolia
  • Malaysia
  • Macau
  • Laos
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Japan
  • Indonesia
  • India
  • Hong Kong
  • Cambodia
  • Brunei Darussalam
  • Bhutan
  • Bangladesh
  • Australia
  • United Kingdom
  • Ukraine
  • Turkey
  • Switzerland
  • Sweden
  • Spain
  • Slovakia
  • Serbia
  • Romania
  • Portugal
  • Poland
  • Norway
  • North Macedonia
  • Netherlands
  • Montenegro
  • Monaco
  • Moldova
  • Malta
  • Luxembourg
  • Lithuania
  • Liechtenstein
  • Latvia
  • Jersey
  • Italy
  • Isle of Man
  • Ireland
  • Iceland
  • Hungary
  • Greece
  • Germany
  • Georgia
  • France
  • Finland
  • Estonia
  • Denmark
  • Czech Republic
  • Cyprus
  • Croatia
  • Bulgaria
  • Bosnia & Herzegovina
  • Belgium
  • Belarus
  • Austria
  • Armenia
  • Andorra
  • Albania

VPNs are legal to use in all countries except in Belarus, China, Iran, Iraq, Oman, Russia, Turkmenistan, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and North Korea.

Online users looking to use VPNs in any country need to understand that in some countries, using VPNs may not be illegal, but the government may fine the person using a VPN for a given activity. But VPNs are legal in the vast majority of the world. The only time a person can get into trouble for using a VPN service in countries apart from the 10 mentioned above is when the person uses the anonymizing features of a VPN service to carry out illegal tasks. 

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Countries that haven’t outright banned the use of a VPN service but do block access to VPNs include Myanmar, where the government has instructed internet service providers (ISPs) to disable access to any VPN services. In Uganda, the government has also instructed ISPs to block access to VPN services even though there are no laws in the country that forbid the use of a VPN service. 

Other countries like the United Arab Emirates have also not outright banned the use of VPN services, but the country’s laws have punishments for citizens who use a VPN to commit a crime or hide the discovery of a crime. One particular example that deserves mention here is Netflix. Users trying to access Netflix with the help of a VPN service are actually breaking the law if living in the UAE. 

In Venezuela, the government doesn’t encourage the use of VPN services and even tried to block VPN usage four years ago, even though there are no laws forbidding VPN usage. 

The other group of countries, including Belarus, China, Turkmenistan, Russia, Oman, Iran and Iraq, have outright banned the use of VPN services by passing laws through the parliament. 

Can ExpressVPN be Used in China?

Yes, ExpressVPN can be used in China. Users need to go to ExpressVPN’s website and then download a compatible VPN app after signing up for a subscription package. However, the official website of ExpressVPN, or any other unapproved VPN website for that matter, is not accessible in China. That’s why ExpressVPN subscribers should sign up for or renew ExpressVPN packages and download/install the app before arriving in China. ExpressVPN even provides a kill switch feature, which is essential for use in China as no chances can be taken if there is a VPN connection drop. 

an image with China Flag

Finding a good VPN for China is hard because the country has a very sophisticated system of monitoring and controlling the internet. Few VPN providers have the infrastructure and technical expertise to keep VPN service stable in China. The Chinese government is able to crack down on unapproved VPN services very quickly, and only the best VPNs that are able to constantly develop newer technologies to circumvent the so-called “Great Firewall of China” are able to keep going. 

ExpressVPN is one of a handful of VPN services with the obfuscation technology needed to keep users anonymous in China. The best VPNs for China are able to offer two key features: auto-connect and kill switch. Any VPN service lacking these functions simply cannot work reliably in China.

How Many Simultaneous Connections can be created with ExpressVPN?

Currently, five simultaneous connections can be created with ExpressVPN. All ExpressVPN packages come with the facility to connect five different devices per account. Users can also connect virtual machines to ExpressVPN servers. 

an image with multiple devices conected

ExpressVPN supports five connected devices at any given time, meaning users are free to install the ExpressVPN app on any supported device as long as the number of connected devices at the same time does not exceed five. ExpressVPN’s customer support team is always present to resolve problems that arise when the user has connected fewer than five devices at any given time, but the ExpressVPN app is still giving the error of “Connection Limit Reached.”

The number of simultaneous connections offered by VPNs like ExpressVPN has become a very important factor in recent years because the number of devices owned and operated by a given person or household has increased. Now, all online users own at least one device that can connect to the internet, and with environmental factors forcing people to work remotely and from home, that number is expected to continue growing. As such, if a VPN service is not offering several simultaneous connections per account, the service is losing customers. 

The factors that affect simultaneous connections include the business model of the VPN service, the infrastructure in place to cover multiple devices per account, the peak demand levels VPN servers are able to handle and the type of customer the VPN service is looking to target. Another factor is multiple platform support. A given VPN service is less likely to offer more simultaneous connections if the service is only available on a single mobile or desktop platform. 

Where are the ExpressVPN Locations?

Currently, ExpressVPN offers servers in 160 locations. The number of VPN server locations has become very important in recent years as more people are switching to online streaming instead of purchasing expensive cable subscriptions. And more streaming means people need to change locations on the go to access the best content available. 

The number of server locations provides an idea of how many servers the VPN company has. The more server locations, the lower the chance of a server being overloaded and hence degrading the browsing experience. Having multiple server locations in the same country means that each server can provide the best possible performance to subscribers. A high number of server locations also means the subscriber would be able to consume the local content of any country, no matter the actual location of the subscriber’s computer. More server locations also help mask online activity effectively. 

an image with Location icons pinned

VPN users usually desire more IP addresses, which is possible with a VPN service that has more server locations. Also, to truly benefit from simultaneous connections, offering multiple server locations is critical.

ExpressVPN varies the VPN server network by ensuring that high-demand locations such as the United Kingdom, the United States and Australia have multiple servers in several cities. With the three most in-demand areas covered, ExpressVPN moves to other lesser-used regions such as Africa, South America and some parts of Asia. The VPN service offers one or two server locations in each country in these regions. 

Does ExpressVPN have Georestrictions?

ExpressVPN does not have georestrictions in the majority of the countries on the map. The only place where users are unable to access and download ExpressVPN apps via the company’s website is China, and even there, the fault lies with the Chinese government blocking the ExpressVPN website. 

Overall, ExpressVPN is able to easily bypass geo-restricted content in any corner of the world, including China and Iran.

Does ExpressVPN have a Free Trial?

an image with 30 days free trial vector illustration

No, ExpressVPN does not have a free trial. However, users interested in testing ExpressVPN can sign up for a package and then request a refund within 30 days of the purchase date. In effect, users can take advantage of the money-back guarantee and use it as a free trial. ExpressVPN encourages prospective customers to check out the service for a 30-day period and ask for a refund if the service is not suitable for the users’ needs. 

ExpressVPN did have a free trial option at one time on mobile platforms, but the free version came with some restrictions that did not represent the same internet experience users would get with the premium subscription packages. 

Does ExpressVPN have a Browser Extension?

ExpressVPN voluntarily underwent a complete audit to further establish the service’s credentials as a VPN that not only promises security and privacy but also provides protection and anonymity. 

an image with Browser Extensions in binary codes

ExpressVPN invited Cure53, an independent cybersecurity firm, to audit the ExpressVPN browser extension. The independent researchers looked at the source code and the extensions and concluded that ExpressVPN’s extensions for web browsers like Chrome provided a positive experience.

While the team at Cure53 who worked on the ExpressVPN Chrome extension found some problems with the ExpressVPN extension at first, the cybersecurity firm did not identify any of such problems to be serious. Once the researchers pointed out the small issues, ExpressVPN’s engineering team acted quickly to patch up the browser extension. Once the Cure53 team verified the ExpressVPN extension, the cybersecurity firm concluded the ExpressVPN browser extension did not have any security issues that could impact privacy and security, even without fixing the other minor problems.

ExpressVPN’s extension supports any web browser that works with Chrome Web Store or Mozilla Add-ons. The extension is compatible with all mainstream web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Opera, Edge and Vivaldi. 

What are the Alternative Browser VPNs to ExpressVPN?

The alternative browser VPNs to ExpressVPN are Windscribe, Ivacy, CyberGhost, Surfshark and NordVPN. 

Alternative browser VPNs mostly boil down to Chrome and Firefox. The best Chrome VPNs are able to provide a stable connection and circumvent geo-restrictions regularly. Similarly, the best Firefox VPNs are able to work with multiple versions of Firefox and allow users to unblock content from various streaming websites while providing anonymity and stability.

ExpressVPN alternative browser VPNs may provide a better internet experience in certain areas. For example, Windscribe offers a free option allowing users to consume up to 10 GB per month, which is great for online users on a budget. Windscribe also supports unlimited simultaneous connections, ideal for users with a large household or multiple devices.

The NordVPN extension offers better server coverage and is one of the best VPNs when unblocking mainstream streaming services. That is aside from the fact that the NordVPN extension is able to offer a very secure VPN experience while working within a web browser. 

Similarly, the Surfshark browser extension (especially for Firefox) is reasonably priced, supports unlimited simultaneous connections and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Users looking to cover all internet-enabled devices on a budget may find Surfshark a worthy alternative browser VPN to ExpressVPN. 

How to Use ExpressVPN

an image with ExpressVPN ready to use on smartphone

To use ExpressVPN, users need to go to the service’s website, sign up for a subscription package, download the app specific to the device that needs protection, install the ExpressVPN app (Google Play Store on Android and Apple App Store on iOS will handle this automatically), launch the official ExpressVPN app and input the account login credentials. Then, from the main page, subscribers should connect to any of the thousands of available ExpressVPN servers. 

The main purpose of using ExpressVPN is to gain anonymity, secure data and change IP addresses. Some useful ExpressVPN tips include installing ExpressVPN on a router for unlimited device protection (detailed guides are available on ExpressVPN’s website), enabling protection even when downloading torrents and other files (ExpressVPN supports torrenting), switching servers when faced with decreased performance (ExpressVPN allows unlimited server switching) and taking advantage of the money-back guarantee by fully testing ExpressVPN for a 30-day period before the money-back guarantee expires. 

ExpressVPN, or any other top VPN service, should be used when there is a need to hide internet activity and maintain privacy, such as downloading torrents, visiting banking websites or checking online health records. ExpressVPN should also be used when the subscriber wants to view the local version of an international website. Journalists around the world can use ExpressVPN to send and receive information securely without having to reveal the true location of any of the parties involved. Finally, whenever there is a need to circumvent georestrictions that streaming websites have started to employ, a VPN should be utilized. 

How to Download ExpressVPN onto Your Computer

Assuming the user already has subscribed to an ExpressVPN subscription package, the steps to download ExpressVPN on a computer can vary depending on the type of computer the user has. 

The steps to follow to download ExpressVPN on a computer running Windows are given below.

  1. Go to the official ExpressVPN website and sign in. 
  2. Then, go to the Dashboard area.
  3. ExpressVPN may require the user to input a verification code for added security. In that case, subscribers should open up a new window and sign in to the email service used for ExpressVPN registration. Then, open up the ExpressVPN message with the verification code and paste the code into the text field on the ExpressVPN website. 
  4. To start the downloading process, subscribers need to click on the “Download” button, which changes depending on the operating system running on the device the subscriber used to access the website. Clicking on “Set up Other Devices” will take the subscriber to another page where all the supported platforms will be mentioned along with the activation code, which the subscriber will need in the next few steps.
  5. Once the .exe file is downloaded, the user needs to double-click on the file. The notification for the completed download may appear within the lower half of the browser, and the file will go straight to the “Downloads” folder.
  6. Clicking the downloaded file twice will launch the installation wizard; users only need to keep hitting the “OK” and “Next” buttons to finish. ExpressVPN may prompt the user to sign in while the installation process continues in the background. In that case, the subscriber will have to provide the activation code available from the website’s “Download” section. Copying and pasting the activation code is the easiest way to ensure there are no mistakes while filling out the code field. Then, click the “Continue” button. 
  7. Subscribers can skip the activation code method completely and instead sign in via an email link. Pressing the button for the email option will result in ExpressVPN sending a sign-in email to the email address used to register with the service. The subscriber is free to open the email on any device to activate ExpressVPN on that device. 

The steps to download ExpressVPN on Mac are given below.

  1. After signing up for a suitable subscription package, subscribers need to go to the “Dashboard” from the ExpressVPN website. Sign in if required.
  2. Input the verification code that’s available either on the website or the email address used to register.
  3. Click the button that says “Download for Mac.”

The steps to download the ExpressVPN app on iOS are given below.

  1. First, the user needs to subscribe to a package. 
  2. Go to the Apple App Store and search for ExpressVPN.
  3. Click the download button to start the download/installation process.

The steps to download the ExpressVPN app on Android are given below.

  1. Purchase a preferred subscription package via the ExpressVPN website.
  2. Click on the menu button that comes in the shape of three horizontal lines on the ExpressVPN website homepage. 
  3. Go to “My Account.”
  4. Input the login credentials.
  5. Go to the “Download” section.
  6. Click on “Set up Other Devices.”
  7. Hit the button that says Android, then click the Google Play button. 
  8. Once the previous step is complete, the user should be taken to the ExpressVPN page on Google Play Store. From there, click the button that says “Install.”
  9. The Android device may ask for permissions. Click “Allow.”
  10. Click on “Accept” to start using ExpressVPN. 

The steps to download ExpressVPN on Linux are given below.

  1. Users should subscribe to a VPN package on ExpressVPN’s website and make sure the Linux distribution in use is either a Debian-based or Arch derivative. Then, users can sign in on ExpressVPN’s website. The site may ask for a verification code, which should be available via the email message sent to the subscriber’s registered email address. 
  2. Then, click on the menu icon in the shape of three horizontal lines and click on “Products.”
  3. Click on Linux. Or, if the subscriber clicks right on “Products” instead of the downward-pointing arrow, the ExpressVPN website will open a new page that will automatically identify the operating system and present a download button).
  4. If the website asks, download the 64-bit version. 
  5. Click “Save File” and then “OK.”

Can ExpressVPN be Downloaded on a Router?

Yes, ExpressVPN can be downloaded on a router. ExpressVPN supports many different kinds of routers, and the company’s website has detailed guides on how to download ExpressVPN on a router quickly. 

Downloading ExpressVPN on a router can become necessary for users who have more than 10 or 20 devices, and all of the devices need protection at the same time. Very few VPN services allow users to connect 10 or more simultaneous devices, which can become a problem for users with a large household with multiple devices per person. Installing ExpressVPN on the router means the subscriber is free to connect any number of devices to the WiFi network and get protection. 

an image with hand holding router

To download ExpressVPN on select routers, users should first subscribe to a suitable package from ExpressVPN’s website. From the homepage, click on the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner of the screen. Click on the downward-pointing arrow in front of “Products,” then select “Router” and scroll down until the text “step by step instructions” appears on the screen above the heading “Recommended VPN routers for home WiFi networks.” Click “Install on the router I’ve been using.” Select router from the drop-down menu, then click “Download Firmware.”

Generally, the user has to download the right firmware from the official website of ExpressVPN’s website and then go to the router dashboard (usually via a website or IP address, such as 192.168.1.1, typed into the URL bar of any mainstream web browser). Then, the user should go to the “Advanced Settings” option, where the administration panel can be accessed. Note that this panel is placed differently depending on the brand of router. 

From the Administration panel, the subscriber should click on “Update” and then “Browse” to get to the file downloaded from ExpressVPN’s website. After that, the subscriber should follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process and restart the router.

Another way to get ExpressVPN on a router is to purchase a router that comes pre-installed with a VPN service. ExpressVPN has plenty of such router recommendations on the website. 

How to Log in to ExpressVPN?

The steps to log in to the ExpressVPN application are listed below.

  1. Subscribe to an ExpressVPN package and get the required credentials, which ExpressVPN will ask the user to set during the registration process.
  2. Download and install ExpressVPN on the desired platform and then launch the app. 
  3. From the first app screen, input the username and password. Depending on the method the user selects to activate the ExpressVPN subscription, a verification code may be requested.
  4. Click the sign-in button.

What is the ExpressVPN Company Information?

Company information forms an essential component of any business plan and is defined as all the important pieces of information about a company, such as names of the management team, history, mission statement, location, target audience, future projects, funding information and legal structure. 

an image with ExpressVPN viewed through magnifying glass

Company information is important because, without these details, a company would not be able to tailor resources to a given project. Company information is also important for the direction the company has to maintain to reach goals and complete objectives. 

Providing a good company information document also allows the company to attract customers and investors who generally like to research a given company before purchasing a product or becoming a shareholder.

Dan Pomerantz is the CEO of ExpressVPN, and the company was founded in 2009. 

ExpressVPN’s current company address is Overseas Management Company Trust (B.V.I) Ltd OMC Chambers Road Town, Tortola, VG1110 in the British Virgin Islands. ExpressVPN’s website does not mention a phone number, but users can call an older number, 877 889-2445. 

Who is the Owner of ExpressVPN? 

an image with a person knocking on the door of boss office

Kape Technologies is the current owner of ExpressVPN. The Israel-based cybersecurity firm bought ExpressVPN in 2021. Kape Technologies was founded by people who wanted to protect consumers and keep sensitive data private as more and more activities shifted into the online world. The company started offering consumer protection services in 2017 and has built a customer base totaling 6.5 million users. More than 100 million people interact with Kape Technologies content worldwide.

Where is ExpressVPN’s Headquarters?

ExpressVPN’s headquarters is in Tortola, British Virgin Islands. 

How Many Employees does ExpressVPN have?

According to LinkedIn, ExpressVPN currently employs 500 to 1,000 people. 

What are the Social Media Accounts of ExpressVPN?

The social media accounts of ExpressVPN are given below.

  • Facebook: ExpressVPN
  • Twitter: @ExpressVPN 
  • YouTube channel: ExpressVPN
  • Instagram: @ExpressVPN

Is ExpressVPN a British Company?

ExpressVPN is not a British company, strictly speaking. The company ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is a part of British overseas territory. The British Virgin Islands has a separate constitution and exercises self-government. 

Is ExpressVPN Trustworthy?

ExpressVPN is a reasonably trustworthy VPN service, especially when compared to other VPNs available in the market today. The only slight problem with ExpressVPN is that in 2021 the company was acquired by Israeli cybersecurity firm Kape Technologies, which also owns other VPN services such as ZenMate, CyberGhost and Private Internet Access. Kape Technologies had issues in the past with privacy and anonymity. The CIO of Kape Technologies, Daniel Gericke, had high-level involvement in Project Raven, which provided spying tools to countries such as the UAE.

an image with Trustworthy red stamp on white background

Of course, there are many other ways to know if a VPN service is trustworthy. For example, the user should take a look at the VPN service’s logging policy, privacy policy, money-back guarantee, historical records on cooperating with law enforcement agencies, and past data breaches, along with user reviews on platforms such as the Google Play Store, the Apple App Store and other reputable technology publications. 

ExpressVPN has a zero-logs policy and hence qualifies as a reasonably trustworthy VPN service. The company is based in the British Virgin Islands, which has lax data retention laws. This is great for privacy because ExpressVPN doesn’t have to worry too much about providing user data to law enforcement agencies, assuming the company even stores the information law enforcement would demand. Back in 2017, authorities in Turkey seized ExpressVPN servers for an investigation and ended up finding nothing because ExpressVPN didn’t have any useful data. 

ExpressVPN has also undergone multiple independent audits carried out by PwC and others to give more weight to the service as a trustworthy brand. Apart from that, ExpressVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee, which further increases trustworthiness. A long money-back guarantee shows that the VPN service is confident about the service on offer but nevertheless is willing to allow users to ask for a refund. 

A trustworthy VPN has a clear and concise privacy policy. ExpressVPN’s privacy policy is fairly straightforward and readable. 

an image with Phrase

ExpressVPN also does not have any past records of either cooperating with law enforcement agencies by giving up user data or selling data, adding to the service’s trustworthiness. Not having been a victim of data breaches is another checkmark on the list of things that make ExpressVPN a trustworthy VPN service.

And finally, ExpressVPN has stellar reviews on software distribution platforms, such as the Apple App Store, Google Play Store and many credible technology publications online. 

What is the Logo of ExpressVPN?

The ExpressVPN logo is a square with rounded edges and a stylistic letter “e” in the middle. The rounded square is red, while the letter “e” is white. The company’s website mentions that the lines present on the new logo (forming the letter “e”) represent motion and speed—reflecting ExpressVPN’s focus on delivering better service to consumers and providing the latest technology and tools in the field of security and privacy.

What are the Alternatives of ExpressVPN?

The alternatives of ExpressVPN are given below.

Which is Best: ExpressVPN or Private Internet Access?

Both ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA) are established VPN services that offer privacy and security. However, the ExpressVPN vs. PIA debate can be settled by comparing the two VPNs in areas such as jurisdiction, speed, price, streaming ability and security. 

Jurisdiction-wise, PIA is located in the U.S. As the U.S. is a member of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, VPN services working in the country find difficulty in maintaining data privacy. ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is fantastic for user privacy since data retention and regulation laws are not strict. Not having strict data regulation laws can work both ways because the company collecting the data doesn’t have to satisfy too many legal requirements. But overall, a VPN operating out of an area like the British Virgin Islands is better at securing privacy.

an image with Private Internet Access opened on smartphone

In terms of speed, ExpressVPN decreases speed by 50% to 70% of the user’s internet connection without a VPN. PIA reduces download speeds by almost 90% in some cases (when both VPNs are connected to the U.K. and the U.S.-based servers). ExpressVPN is better than PIA in the speed category as well. 

Considering the ability to unblock streaming services, PIA doesn’t unblock Netflix with any regularity, while ExpressVPN always unblocks Netflix and other popular streaming services. 

Security-wise, ExpressVPN makes use of AES 256-bit encryption along with SHA 512-bit HMAC authentication and 4096-bit RSA key. For a more secure online experience, ExpressVPN offers Lightway, IKEv2 and OpenVPN protocols. PIA also offers strong encryption (AES 256-bit GCM with 4096-bit RSA key for handshake) and protocols such as OpenVPN and WireGuard. However, ExpressVPN offers disk-less RAM-only servers and has undergone an audit, unlike PIA. 

ExpressVPN is superior to PIA in almost every department. However, the cheapest PIA plan costs $2.03 per month, while ExpressVPN’s lowest plan is $8.32 per month. 

Which is Best: ExpressVPN or IPVanish?

The question of ExpressVPN vs. IPVanish is a difficult one to answer as both VPN services have been in the business for multiple years and ranked at the top of many VPN rankings at one point. To compare IPVanish and ExpressVPN means to compare both services in terms of jurisdiction, speed, price, security and streaming ability. 

IPVanish operates out of the U.S., while ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands. Since the U.S. has many data retention and regulation laws while the British Virgin Islands doesn’t, ExpressVPN is clearly the superior choice in this department. 

In terms of speed, ExpressVPN generally reduces speeds by 40% to 70%, depending on factors such as the user’s original location, the server used and the protocol. IPVanish reduces speed by 20% to 35%; again, this depends on the server, the user’s location, and the protocol and device used. 

an image with IPVanish ready to install

Comparing IPVanish and ExpressVPN in the security department is also difficult since both offer advanced security features, such as split tunneling and a kill switch. ExpressVPN has a Smart DNS feature, while IPVanish has SOCKS5. ExpressVPN edges IPVanish because ExpressVPN offers RAM-only servers, stealth servers and a proper zero-logs policy. 

Both IPVanish and ExpressVPN use AES 256-bit encryption with SHA 512-bit for authentication, along with perfect forward secrecy. 

When comparing two VPN services in terms of streaming ability, the discussion boils down to whether or not either can unblock Netflix. Both IPVanish and ExpressVPN can unblock U.S. Netflix fairly regularly, but ExpressVPN edges IPVanish again by unblocking other in-demand streaming services like BBC iPlayer, DAZN and YouTube. 

IPVanish’s main advantages over ExpressVPN are the lower price point and an unlimited number of simultaneous connections per account, where ExpressVPN allows only five.

The lowest price users have to pay for ExpressVPN is $8.32 per month, while for IPVanish, the lowest price is $3.20 per month. 

Which is Best: ExpressVPN or Surfshark?

The ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark discussion is a relatively new one since Surfshark has only recently improved enough to earn a position in the best VPN rankings. Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark are genuine and high-performing VPN services, so the simplest way to compare the two is to look at the jurisdiction, speed, security, streaming ability and price.

an image with Surfshark opened on smartphone

ExpressVPN and Surfshark both operate out of the British Virgin Islands and keep zero logs. 

In terms of speed, ExpressVPN decreases speeds by 50% to 70% based on the protocol used and the server location. Surfshark offers a much wider range of performance based on the servers and protocols used, decreasing speeds by 15% to 60%. 

Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer advanced security features such as stealth servers (both use different names for the same features), split tunneling and smart DNS. However, Surfshark offers the double VPN feature that ExpressVPN doesn’t. Surfshark also offers an ad-blocker and GPS spoofing feature, which are the service’s strong points against ExpressVPN. 

Moreover, Surfshark and ExpressVPN both use AES 256-bit encryption with equal customization options and offer strong protocols such as WireGuard/Lightway, OpenVPN and IKEv2. Surfshark offers the Shadowsocks protocol, while ExpressVPN offers the L2TP IPSec option. Overall, Surfshark edges ExpressVPN in the security department. 

Streaming-wise, both ExpressVPN and Surfshark work with some of the most in-demand streaming services, such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu and YouTube. ExpressVPN and Surfshark also support torrenting. 

In the end, though, Surfshark takes the win against ExpressVPN because of better speeds and not having an owner like Kape Technologies, which has a questionable past in security and privacy issues. 

ExpressVPN, at the lowest, charges users $8.32 per month, while Surfshark charges just $2.21 per month. 

Which is Best: ExpressVPN or NordVPN?

The longest debate about which is the best VPN worldwide at any given moment is the ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN discussion. Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN have continuously offered top-tier VPN products for more than a decade and continue to improve the services each year. Since there is so little to separate the two, the best way to compare ExpressVPN and NordVPN is to look at jurisdiction, speed, security, unblocking ability and price. 

Jurisdiction-wise, NordVPN operates out of Panama, while ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands. Accordingly, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN are able to offer independent audit-approved zero-logs policies and are good for privacy. 

an image with NordVPN ready to open

Considering speed, NordVPN is better than ExpressVPN. Speed test results usually depend on the location of the server, the user’s location and the protocol used. NordVPN, at the service’s best (which means, among many other things, while using the NordLynx protocol) only decreases speed by 10% to 20%. ExpressVPN decreases speed by 50% when on the Lightway protocol. Comparing both on the OpenVPN protocol reveals that NordVPN can decrease speed by up to 80%, while ExpressVPN decreases by 70% to 75%. 

In security, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN are equal since AES 256-bit encryption is used to secure communications. 

Coming to streaming ability, ExpressVPN unblocks all major streaming services almost all the time. NordVPN can do the same but struggles just a bit on lesser-known streaming services like BBC iPlayer.

In the end, NordVPN edges ExpressVPN but only because Kape Technologies bought ExpressVPN and hence raised some privacy issues. Some users may pick one over the other depending on whether the preference is the Lightway protocol or NordLynx protocol. 

Finally, the cheapest ExpressVPN plan costs $8.29 per month, while NordVPN’s cheapest plan comes at around $3.29 per month.

Ali Qamar Ali Qamar is a seasoned blogger and loves keeping a keen eye on the future of tech. He is a geek. He is a privacy enthusiast and advocate. He is crazy (and competent) about internet security, digital finance, and technology. Ali is the founder of PrivacySavvy and an aspiring entrepreneur.

2 thoughts on “ExpressVPN Review: Price, Security, Speed and Deals”

  1. Hi,
    can you explain why the security and trustworthiness (ExpressVPN) is less compared to NordVPN as well as ipVanish (five eyes). I figured out, that ExpressVPN has one of the best customer service. Very helpful, friendly and extremely fast.
    Many thanks in advance!

    Reply
    • The reason is simple.
      ExpressVPN doesn’t have as clear a privacy policy as NordVPN and/or IPVanish.
      Moreover, IPVanish has consistently topped our best VPN service providers list.
      Many other review sites like Tomsguide, PCMAG, PCWorld have ranked IPVanish among the best VPN service providers in the world.
      In the end, it all comes down to who you are more comfortable with.
      There is nothing wrong with signing up for Express VPN if you feel like it offers more value for money than IPVanish.
      Thank you for your feedback stef.

      Reply
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