Pros:
– Unmatched transparency
– Top-tier security with zero leaks detected
– Among the fastest VPNs available
– Exceptional for streaming
Cons:
– High cost
– Limited to five simultaneous connections
– Owned by Kape Technologies
If you’re searching for a VPN that excels in transparency, privacy, and speed, ExpressVPN is a top contender. Although it carries a premium price tag, it consistently outperforms competitors, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and secure VPN, especially for streaming.
ExpressVPN has earned the CNET Editor’s Choice Award, thanks to its impressive balance of speed, security, and privacy features. Even after its acquisition by Kape Technologies in 2021 and scrutiny from the Department of Justice regarding its CIO’s previous employment, ExpressVPN continues to demonstrate a steadfast commitment to user privacy. The company’s dedication to transparency is evident, with 12 independent security audits conducted in 2022 alone. ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology further reinforces its position as a reliable VPN for privacy-conscious users, including journalists, activists, and healthcare professionals.
Speed: Consistently Fast, Though Not the Fastest
– **Average speed loss:** 18% in 2023 tests
– **Number of servers:** 3,000+
– **Server locations:** 94 countries, 160 locations
VPN speeds can fluctuate, and while ExpressVPN once held the title of the fastest VPN, recent tests indicate a slight decline. In 2022, it experienced a minimal 2% speed loss, maintaining its 2019 performance levels. However, by early 2023, the average speed loss had increased to 18%, still a significant improvement from the 51% speed drop observed in 2020. Despite this, ExpressVPN remains one of the fastest VPNs, ranking just behind NordVPN.
I conducted speed tests from Ohio and Central Europe in the first quarter of 2023, connecting to servers in New York, the UK, Australia, Germany, France, and Singapore. Using both the OpenVPN UDP protocol and ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol—a lightweight, high-speed protocol—I observed that European servers, particularly in France and Germany, delivered the best performance. While Lightway generally outperformed OpenVPN, both protocols provided impressive speeds. The fastest recorded speed was 350.20Mbps from Ohio to Germany using Lightway.
ExpressVPN’s speed performance is consistent across different locations and protocols, which is reassuring, as many other VPNs struggle with this. Whether streaming, video conferencing, downloading torrents, or browsing, ExpressVPN’s speeds are more than sufficient for any online activity. With the recent upgrade to 10Gbps servers, users can expect even faster and more reliable connections across ExpressVPN’s extensive global network.
Cost: Premium Pricing for Premium Service
– **Pricing:** $13/month, $60/6 months, or $100/year (with three extra months free)
– **Refund guarantee:** 30 days
– **Payment methods:** Credit/debit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin
– **Compatibility:** Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Fire TV, routers
ExpressVPN’s pricing reflects its premium status. The service offers three subscription plans: an annual plan at $100 per year (with an additional three months free), a semi-annual plan at $60 for six months, and a monthly plan at $13. While this is on par with NordVPN’s pricing, it is notably higher than Surfshark’s $60 annual fee.
Subscriptions can be purchased using various payment methods, including major credit/debit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin, and others. Each plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring satisfaction.
ExpressVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, FireTV, and routers like ExpressVPN’s Aircove Wi-Fi 6 router. Configuring ExpressVPN on a router allows coverage for all connected devices, even those without native VPN support, like gaming consoles and smart TVs.
One area where ExpressVPN could improve is its limit of five simultaneous connections. In comparison, other premium VPNs, such as Surfshark and IPVanish, offer unlimited connections, while ProtonVPN allows up to 10 connections. Given the increasing number of connected devices in modern households, raising this limit would add significant value to the service.
For streaming enthusiasts, ExpressVPN’s higher price is justified by its unparalleled performance. In my tests, it successfully accessed content on Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max, and even bypassed MLB.tv blackout restrictions for local baseball broadcasts.
ExpressVPN also offers 24/7 live chat customer support for any issues or questions. Additionally, the extensive knowledge base provides setup guides, troubleshooting tips, FAQs, and more.
Looking ahead, ExpressVPN is introducing its own password manager, Keys, which will be free for all users. Currently in testing, Keys has shown promise as a reliable and secure password manager during my evaluation.
Final Verdict: Is ExpressVPN Worth It?
ExpressVPN continues to set the standard for VPN services, offering exceptional security, speed, and streaming capabilities. While it comes with a higher price, the value it delivers justifies the cost, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize privacy and performance.
