I’m committed to online security and privacy, so finding the right VPN is essential. With so many options available, I’ve been researching extensively to find the best VPN to meet my specific needs.
ExpressVPN is a popular VPN service with a strong reputation. However, its price is higher than many competitors, even with discounts. This raises the question: What makes ExpressVPN stand out from other VPNs that use similar technology? Does it offer significant advantages over top-rated alternatives like NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost, and IPVanish?
Table of Contents
This ExpressVPN review 2024 investigates the service’s performance on both desktop and mobile, addressing key questions about its capabilities.
ExpressVpn Feature Breakdown
| Feature | Score | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 9.5 | Average Speed: 300 Mbps |
| Video Streaming Support | 4K UHD | |
| Streaming Services | 9.2 | Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Max, Hulu, BT Sports, Now TV, ITVX, Sky TV, Apple TV, Discovery+, Youtube, ESPN, BBC iPlayer, Paramount |
| Security | 9.8 | Encryption Type: 256-bit AES w/ Perfect Forward Secrecy, Kill Switch: Yes, Log Policy: No identifying logs, Protocols: OpenVPN, Lightway |
| Value for Money | 5.4 | Lowest Monthly Cost: $6.67, Money Back Guarantee: 30 days |
Keep in mind:
Please note that this data represents the typical internet speeds observed at various locations around the world, calculated by averaging multiple speed tests conducted daily.
ExpressVPN Review 2024: Pros & Cons
This section will highlight the pros and cons of my experience using ExpressVPN.
Pros
- The server locations offer very fast speeds.
- Robust security across apps and servers.
- Allows access to content from popular international streaming sites, like US Netflix.
- Does not track your activity (No logs policy)
- Continuous customer support through live chat
- The Lightway protocol enables high performance.
- Functions well in China.
Cons
- Comes at a slightly higher price point compared to its competitors.
- Streaming servers often lack clear labeling, making it difficult to identify their purpose or origin.
ExpressVPN service offers fast speeds, strong security, access to international streaming content, a no-logs policy, and 24/7 customer support. Its Lightway protocol ensures high performance, and it functions well in China. However, it is more expensive than some competitors and lacks clear server labeling.
ExpressVPN Pricing & Payment Options
While ExpressVPN positions itself as a premium VPN service, it comes with a higher price tag compared to some alternatives. Let’s take a closer look at its pricing.
- The 1-month subscription plan is available for $12.95.
- The 6-month subscription plan is available for $9.99 per month.
- The 12-month plan offers a great value at $6.67 per month, including 3 months free. You’ll only pay $99.95 for the entire year.
Payment Methods:
ExpressVPN offers flexible payment options, including credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, Delta, Diners Club International, OneCard, and Hipercard), PayPal, prepaid/debit cards, and online transfers.
While ExpressVPN offers discounts for longer subscriptions, like many VPNs, it remains pricier than other high-quality options. For example, NordVPN’s standard plan costs $4.99/month for a year, or $3.99 for two years, while Surfshark offers even lower prices at $3.49/month for a year and $2.49 for two years.
ExpressVPN Speed Test
ExpressVPN prioritizes speed with its innovative Lightway protocol. Unlike most VPNs adopting WireGuard, ExpressVPN developed its own, open-source protocol. Lightway delivers faster connection speeds, seamless switching between networks, and robust security.
ExpressVPN consistently delivers high speeds, averaging 300 Mbps across various server locations. While slightly slower than its previous performance, it remains one of the fastest VPNs available.
| Speed Test | Locations | Results |
|---|---|---|
| Average Connection Speed | North America | 319 Mbps |
| Average Connection Speed | Europe | 303 Mbps |
| Average Connection Speed | Asia | 278 Mbps |
The table below compares ExpressVPN to other VPN providers in terms of speed.
| VPN Service | WireGuard (or proprietary) | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | 410 Mbps | 210 Mbps |
| NordVPN | 950 Mbps | 110 Mbps |
| Surfshark | 950 Mbps | 640 Mbps |
| Private Internet Access | 330 Mbps | 270 Mbps |
| Proton VPN | 395 Mbps | 210 Mbps |
| CyberGhost VPN | 760 Mbps | 360 Mbps |
| Hotspot Shield | 600 Mbps | 200 Mbps |
| Hide.me | 690 Mbps | 210 Mbps |
| IPVanish | 770 Mbps | 230 Mbps |
| Windscribe | 950 Mbps | 240 Mbps |
| Mullvad | 950 Mbps | 410 Mbps |
| TunnelBear | 480 Mbps | 180 Mbps |
| PureVPN | 880 Mbps | 210 Mbps |
Can I use ExpressVPN to access Netflix?
ExpressVPN lets you watch Netflix content from around the world, including the US, UK, Japan, Canada, and France, giving you access to a wider variety of shows and movies.
ExpressVPN provides access to a wide variety of popular streaming services, including Hulu, Peacock, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video, and more. This means you can enjoy content from different countries and bypass geo-restrictions, expanding your streaming options significantly.
While ExpressVPN generally works well with streaming services, it’s always a good idea to check with customer service to confirm which servers are compatible with specific services. In the past, there were issues with BBC iPlayer, but these seem to have been resolved recently.
Is ExpressVPN suitable for torrenting?
ExpressVPN doesn’t recommend specific servers for torrenting, making it a more straightforward and user-friendly experience. I simply choose a fast server near me and begin downloading.
ExpressVPN prioritizes your privacy and security during P2P file sharing. Their “network lock” feature, essentially a kill switch, automatically cuts off your internet connection if the VPN disconnects. This ensures your P2P traffic remains encrypted at all times, even in the event of an unexpected interruption. The feature is readily available on both desktop and mobile applications.
Does ExpressVPN allow you to use Split Tunneling?
ExpressVPN allows you to choose which apps use the VPN connection and which don’t, a feature called split tunneling. This is particularly beneficial for P2P file sharing, as it lets you secure your torrent client while other apps access the internet normally.
Okay, here’s a more concise version of the instructions, focusing on the core topic:
To use ExpressVPN’s split tunneling feature:
1. Open the ExpressVPN app and go to Settings.
2. Under Split Tunneling, select “Manage connection on a per-app basis.
3. Choose whether you want to allow *only* specific apps to use VPN, or prevent *specific* apps from using VPN.
4. Add the apps you want to include (or exclude) from VPN using the + button.
When you use split tunneling with ExpressVPN, even apps excluded from the VPN will still use ExpressVPN’s servers for DNS requests.
Does ExpressVPN Work in China?
ExpressVPN is a well-established VPN provider that offers dependable access to the open internet from mainland China.
While VPNs that bypass the Great Firewall often experience temporary disruptions, particularly during politically sensitive events, ExpressVPN consistently recovers quickly and provides reliable service.
ExpressVPN Review 2024
ExpressVPN: Frequently Asked Questions
Does ExpressVPN have a free trial?
Yes, they offer a 7-day free trial. You can get 7 days of free access by only downloading the ExpressVPN app on your iOS or Android device. The app is available in the App Store and Google Play Store.
How can I cancel my ExpressVPN subscription?
You can cancel your ExpressVPN subscription by reaching out to their support team. If you cancel your subscription within 30 days, you can get a refund.
Does ExpressVPN keep logs?
ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy. They do not track or store your browsing history, IP address, or any other personal information.
Does ExpressVPN have servers in Russia?
No, ExpressVPN does not operate servers in Russia.
Does ExpressVPN work with Netflix?
Enjoy your favorite Netflix content with ExpressVPN, providing seamless streaming while ensuring your online privacy and security.
Is ExpressVPN still working in China?
As of June 2024, ExpressVPN continues to operate in China without any issues.