ExpressVPN Fast factsOur rating: 4.6 stars out of 5 Pricing: $8.33 per month Key features:
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As one of the most popular VPNs today, ExpressVPN offers an all-around experience that makes it a solid choice for most businesses. It provides impressive VPN speeds and performance, an extensive 105-country server suite, and a strong portfolio of independent audits.
While its paid plans are on the expensive side, I feel it provides enough overall value to make the spend worthwhile.
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ExpressVPN pricing
ExpressVPN has straightforward pricing that’s divided by contract length. It offers a one-month, a six-month, and a one-year contract. While I wish ExpressVPN had a two-year or three-year contract offering with lower monthly fees, I appreciate how the subscription structure isn’t overly complicated.
Below is pricing for ExpressVPN’s paid plans as of August 2024:
| 1-year plan | $8.33 per month |
| 6-month plan | $9.99 per month |
| 1-month plan | $12.95 per month |
Unfortunately, there was a price increase with ExpressVPN’s one-year contract in 2024, compared to 2023. When I first reviewed ExpressVPN in 2023, the annual plan was priced at $6.67 per month, or around $80 per year. Right now, the one-year subscription is pegged at $8.33 per month, or around $100 per year.
For context, one-year VPN plans usually range from $3 to around $8 per month, or $36 and $100 per year, respectively. This puts ExpressVPN’s annual plan on the upper end of average VPN prices.
SEE: CyberGhost vs ExpressVPN (2024): Which VPN Is Better? (TechRepublic)
While I ultimately think the price is warranted given ExpressVPN’s feature set, I can’t say I’m happy that the annual plan is now a bit pricier compared to last year. This is especially considering how one-year plans would be my go-to recommendation, as I feel they offer the best value price without getting tied down to an unreasonably long contract.
If you’re looking for a more affordable one-year VPN plan, Mullvad VPN’s $5.56 per month annual plan (around $67 per year) and Private Internet Access VPN’s $3.33 per month one-year plan (around $40 per year) are good alternatives.
Despite having a pricier one-year plan, I like how ExpressVPN includes its ExpressVPN Keys password manager service with every subscription. This helps lessen the blow of the slightly more expensive plan and can be a good pick for users who don’t yet have a dedicated password management service of their own.
All contract options also include a 30-day money-back guarantee, which I commend. ExpressVPN also offers a seven-day free trial, but this is only available via its iOS and Android mobile applications.
Is ExpressVPN secure?
Yes, ExpressVPN is a safe and secure VPN to use in 2024. It utilizes the industry standard AES-256 encryption algorithm, widely considered one of the most secure algorithms today.
For its VPN protocols, I like that ExpressVPN covers both security and speed. It offers OpenVPN — which is well-regarded for its security and stability and also provides its own proprietary protocol called Lightway — which ExpressVPN says was designed for speed.
On the flipside, some users may take issue with its ownership. Back in 2021, ExpressVPN, along with Private Internet Access and CyberGhost, were acquired by security provider Kape Technologies. Formerly known as Crossrider, the company had previously been associated with adware before shifting into its new name.
Fortunately, ExpressVPN allayed concerns when it announced that it would continue to operate as an independent service despite the acquisition.
In addition, ExpressVPN has a no-logs policy, which states that it doesn’t log any user traffic or personal data. Thankfully, ExpressVPN backs this up with a number of independent audit results that confirm its security claims. I commend ExpressVPN for taking this approach, especially with how easy it is to make false promises when it comes to security.
When I first reviewed ExpressVPN back in October 2023, it had 16 third-party audits. As of August 2024, ExpressVPN has undergone a total of 18 independent audits. This includes audits on its no-logs policy, browser extension, and desktop applications. To me, this shows that ExpressVPN is serious about building trust and protecting sensitive user data.
ExpressVPN also regularly publishes Transparency Reports on its official site, showcasing real-world data requests or inquiries on user data. The VPN provider reiterates that it “can never provide this customer data because it simply does not exist” — a statement I’m happy to see from a no-logs VPN.
SEE: IPVanish vs ExpressVPN (2024): Which VPN Is Better? (TechRepublic)
All in all, I’m satisfied with the security measures ExpressVPN has put in place with its VPN. On top of its audits and strong encryption, ExpressVPN also includes DNS leak protection, a built-in kill switch, and ad blocking capabilities.
For users looking to have a secure VPN service, I have no trouble recommending ExpressVPN as a viable option in 2024.
ExpressVPN key features
Compared to 2023, ExpressVPN has included more standout features this year on top of its main VPN service. Let’s check out three that stood out to me specifically.
Advanced Protection capabilities
ExpressVPN has what it calls Advanced Protection, which lets users block off common intrusive items on the internet for a better online experience. Formerly known as Threat Manager, Advanced Protection includes the ability to block trackers, ads, and malicious websites.
What’s new in 2024 is ExpressVPN now has ‘Parental controls’ support, which automatically blocks adult websites while using ExpressVPN. This is done through ExpressVPN’s adult site blocklist, which they say is regularly reviewed and updated.
I like how ExpressVPN continues to develop its web protection capabilities, especially with how malware and threat actors continue to evolve themselves. I also appreciate Advanced Protection being a set-and-forget feature, needing only to be toggled once for it to be active.
ExpressVPN Keys password manager extension
To add even more value to its VPN, ExpressVPN bundles in ExpressVPN Keys — its own dedicated password manager service — to every subscription. Keys allows you to store and organize your passwords through an encrypted and secure vault.
ExpressVPN Keys is accessible as a browser extension and is fairly easy to set up. Keys is a very basic password management tool. It includes a password generator and a password vault that can store log-ins, notes, and credit card information.
SEE: How to Run a Cybersecurity Risk Assessment in 5 Steps (TechRepublic Premium)
While it’s not the most fully-featured password manager out there, I appreciate the fact that ExpressVPN bundles it in with its VPN at no additional cost.
This can be perfect for prospective VPN users who are also interested in trying out a dedicated password manager. It also helps offset ExpressVPN’s more expensive annual subscription, as you’re basically getting two services for the price of one.
TrustedServer RAM-only server technology
Another standout feature is ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer RAM-only server technology. Since 2019, ExpressVPN has been using a RAM-only server infrastructure that ensures all user data is wiped with every reboot.
This also means no private information is written into physical hard drives, removing the risk of data accidentally being compromised or stolen. As VPNs handle sensitive data such as our browsing history and online traffic, I think having RAM-only servers should be the standard in modern VPNs, and I’m happy ExpressVPN offers it via its TrustedServer technology.
ExpressVPN speed and performance
Per my testing, ExpressVPN was fast and stable throughout my day-to-day tasks as a writer. This involved having multiple Chrome tabs open for research, using Google Workspace apps like Docs and Drive, and attending the occasional online video meeting for work.
At no point did I feel a noticeable slowdown with my connection compared to my internet service provider. Loading webpages felt snappy, and it was an overall positive experience the whole time I was connected to an ExpressVPN server. Switching to different server locations was also fairly quick, with ExpressVPN having no issues establishing new connections.
The story was the same when it came to speed testing, with ExpressVPN recording excellent results. For downloads, ExpressVPN had a decrease of 25.65% — which I consider fast since speed drops are expected with VPNs. For uploads, ExpressVPN actually recorded 0.37% faster speeds compared to my ISP, which is very impressive and some of the fastest I’ve recorded to date.
Of course, speed test results may vary depending on your home connection, location, and other factors. But based on my testing, I’m confident ExpressVPN will provide fast and reliable VPN speeds for most users.
In terms of DNS leak protection, I ran ExpressVPN through multiple rounds on a public DNS leak tool. Throughout all the tests, using different server locations, I recorded zero DNS leaks whatsoever.
Unfortunately, ExpressVPN only allows for up to eight simultaneous device connections. While I think this is more than enough for the average user, having an unlimited number of connections at a time would still be preferred. If you want a VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections, check out Surfshark VPN or Private Internet Access VPN.
ExpressVPN servers and locations
In 2024, ExpressVPN brings an extensive server suite that spans 105 countries worldwide. This is a significant bump up compared to the 94 countries ExpressVPN had when I first used it in October 2023.
While ExpressVPN doesn’t explicitly disclose its full server count, some outlets have reported the number to be around 3,000 servers.
If you’re curious about the country spread with ExpressVPN’s server network, below is a quick overview of its VPN server locations across the globe:
| Americas | 24 |
| Europe | 47 |
| Asia Pacific | 27 |
| Middle East and Africa | 8 |
I commend ExpressVPN for continually expanding its server fleet and working to have that 11-country increase in just a year. This is important since one of the primary reasons to use a VPN is to unblock geo-restricted content.
At 105 countries, ExpressVPN’s server suite is more or less on par with the competition, like NordVPN’s 111-country server fleet and CyberGhost VPN’s 100-country server infrastructure. For users who plan to access geo-blocked content online, I think ExpressVPN will be a solid choice.
ExpressVPN app experience
For this review, I mainly used ExpressVPN’s desktop application on a Windows laptop. Personally, I think ExpressVPN’s user interface is one of its strong points. It combines having both a simple and easy-to-use UI with a modern aesthetic that’s pleasing to the eye.
Things like server locations, settings menus, and other features were where I expected them to be, and nothing felt confusing in terms of UI choice. I also think the app experience is significantly helped by the fact that ExpressVPN feels so smooth.
Everything worked as advertised, such as switching through servers or using one of ExpressVPN’s security features. This helped make the overall experience feel very polished on the whole.
If you’re the type of user who prioritizes a clean UI and an intuitive app experience, I found ExpressVPN to be one of the best.
ExpressVPN browser extension
ExpressVPN has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi. During my time with ExpressVPN, I was able to test it with Chrome. Personally, I like ExpressVPN’s implementation with its browser extension, as it acts as a pseudo-remote control for its desktop app.
This makes the experience from desktop to the browser borderline seamless. Like the desktop counterpart, ExpressVPN on Chrome was intuitive, fast-performing, and pretty reliable.
Take note, however, that since ExpressVPN’s browser extension acts as a remote control, the server connection affects your whole machine and not just at the browser level.
ExpressVPN customer support
For customer support, ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, email, and a knowledge base support page for common queries and in-depth guides.
I had a mostly positive experience with ExpressVPN’s live chat support. Within five or so minutes, I was able to speak with a real support agent who was able to answer the questions I had fairly easily.
This was reflective of other users’ sentiments on ExpressVPN’s customer support. In the ExpressVPN Reddit community, one user said “support is excellent. Just go to their chat window and you get a person in less than a minute. They’re pleasant and knowledgeable and they’ve always fixed any issue I had.”
ExpressVPN pros
- 105-country server fleet.
- Fast speeds for both downloads and uploads.
- AES-256 encryption.
- ExpressVPN Keys password manager bundled with VPN.
- Intuitive and well-designed VPN application.
- 18 independent audits as of 2024.
Express VPN Cons
- On the pricier side.
- Owned by controversial Kape Technologies.
Who is ExpressVPN best for?
ExpressVPN is best for users and businesses that want an all-around VPN service that can provide fast speeds, strong security, and a well-designed desktop application.
It has a larger 105-country server fleet compared to last year, additional security capabilities with its Advanced Protection web protection feature, and even bundles a dedicated password manager on top of the main VPN subscription.
I personally find a lot of value in ExpressVPN’s 18 third-party audits as of August 2024. With data as sensitive as online traffic, I find ExpressVPN’s all-in approach to independent testing as a major advantage compared to the competition.
While I acknowledge that ExpressVPN isn’t the most affordable option, I feel its fast performance and polished user experience bring enough value to warrant the spend.
ExpressVPN alternatives
| NordVPN | Surfshark VPN | Private Internet Access VPN | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting price (annual plan) | $4.99 per month | $3.69 per month | $3.33 per month |
| Server network | 6,400+ servers in 111 countries | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | Servers in 91 countries |
| Free trial | Yes (via Android only) | Yes (via mobile) | Yes (via mobile) |
| Standout features | Extensive server network, privacy-centric extra features | Unlimited simultaneous device connections, affordable pricing, and fast performance | Customizable app experience, unlimited simultaneous device connections |
NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services available today — and for good reason. It offers a large 111-country server fleet with 6,400+ servers, a unique Meshnet encrypted networking system for secure file-sharing and collaboration, and built-in threat protection against malware, ads, and trackers.
SEE: The Top 7 NordVPN Alternatives for 2024 (TechRepublic)
I especially appreciate how NordVPN brings all these features in a modern and easy-to-use desktop interface that’s both reliable and stable. It’s one of my picks when it comes to using a no-nonsense VPN that just works.
If you want to learn more, read our full NordVPN review. You can also check out our recent NordVPN vs Proton VPN (2024) comparison.
Surfshark VPN
For more budget-oriented users, I recommend checking out Surfshark. It brings a really good balance between affordability and VPN capabilities. It brings fast VPN speeds, a range of subscriptions for different types of users, and a well-designed desktop application.
I particularly like how it offers unlimited device connections, letting users have multiple computers or smartphones connected via a VPN server without needing an additional subscription.
If you want to learn more, read our full Surfshark VPN review. You can also check out our AVG Secure VPN vs Surfshark comparison.
Private Internet Access VPN
If you want a customizable VPN experience, I suggest taking a look at Private Internet Access VPN. It brings a user-friendly interface that lets users bookmark their favorite settings in the app, as they see fit. You can also set automated actions for the VPN, controlling things such as personalized rules when you join a specific network.
Like Surfshark, PIA VPN brings unlimited simultaneous device connections, which I envision will be especially useful for users with multiple devices on hand.
If you want to learn more, read our full PIA VPN review. You can also check out our PIA VPN vs NordVPN and PIA vs ExpressVPN comparisons.
Review methodology
My review of ExpressVPN involved a detailed evaluation of its features, cost, and real-world performance. I had hands-on time with Express VPN’s one-year subscription plan on a Windows laptop.
To evaluate ExpressVPN, I scored it on everything from its security protocols to its server network. In particular, I took into account five main pillars, each having corresponding weights:
- Pricing (20%).
- Core VPN features (30%).
- Ease of use (15%).
- Customer support (30%).
- Expert analysis (5%).
From this rubric, ExpressVPN received a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. I also looked into real user feedback and other reputable reviews to round out my final recommendations.
For speed and performance, I used Ookla’s public Speedtestto measure download and upload speeds. I also ran ExpressVPN through DNSLeakTest multiple times to check for any DNS leaks. Finally, I considered which types of users or businesses would best benefit from using ExpressVPN.
To learn more about how we review VPNs, read ourfull VPN Review Methodology.
