ExpressVPN Review – Is the price still worth it?

In this ExpressVPN review, I tested one of the most trusted VPN services of the past decade. Known for robust privacy, exceptional speeds, and a no-logs policy, ExpressVPN gives you access to IP addresses in over 105 countries. Whether you need a VPN for streaming, gaming, browsing, or secure public wifi access, ExpressVPN keeps your data private. It’s a reliable VPN for bypassing restrictions at work or school.

ExpressVPN operates from the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction outside the Five Eyes alliance. Its unique TrustedServer Technology means your activities are never stored on hard drives. Its custom Lightway Protocol guarantees lightning-fast and reliable connections. What’s more, features like MediaStreamer and ShuffleIP make it a top choice for accessing geo-blocked content on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.

While ExpressVPN may not be as advanced as some competitors, it still ships with Split Tunneling, Network Lock, and post-quantum protection. It sets a high bar for security and lives up to it. ExpressVPN has completed a full third-party audit to guarantee trust in the service.

ExpressVPN’s Aircove Router and custom router firmware make it a top choice for users who want to protect their entire network. It also offers 24/7 live chat, so agents are available to help anytime.

In this review, I carefully assessed ExpressVPN’s speed, streaming performance, and security features. Let’s examine whether ExpressVPN remains competitive in 2025.  

ExpressVPN Key Data

* Average speed over multiple global locations based across multiple speed tests per day.

ExpressVPN review: Pros and cons

If you’re looking for a VPN that prioritizes privacy, security, and streaming performance, ExpressVPN is well worth considering. Below, I’ve summarized the pros and cons based on my extensive testing. Keep reading for detailed explanations about all these features.

Do I recommend ExpressVPN?

Yes, I recommend ExpressVPN. It is a versatile and reliable Virtual Private Network (VPN) provider, ideal for users seeking an easy-to-use service with strong privacy and robust security features.

ExpressVPN supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2 (both using AES-256 encryption) and its proprietary Lightway protocol, designed for faster speeds and seamless performance. Its TrustedServer technology employs RAM-only servers, ensuring data is wiped clean with every reboot to enhance privacy and protection.

ExpressVPN excels at streaming, with servers in over 100 countries that effectively bypass geo-blocking on platforms like Netflix and Disney+. Usability features like split tunneling, Network Lock (kill switch), and MediaStreamer Smart DNS improve device compatibility. Additional tools like TrustedNetwork Services and DNS leak protection add layers of security.

However, ExpressVPN has its limitations. The eight-device limit may feel restrictive for larger families or tech enthusiasts. It also lacks advanced features like multi-hop connections, port forwarding, Tor over VPN, and WireGuard protocol support. While its VPN speed is impressive, its premium price is harder to justify than competitors offering more features at a lower cost.

Despite these drawbacks, ExpressVPN remains an excellent choice for users who value security, location spoofing, and geo-restriction bypass. It’s perfect for beginners, travelers, and gamers who benefit from its reliable performance, low latency, and IP address masking. If budget isn’t a concern, ExpressVPN delivers a highly secure and user-friendly VPN app experience, though better value options exist.

ExpressVPN features

ExpressVPN was launched in 2009. It is one of the most trusted and established VPN providers. Its strong reputation and reliability helped set a benchmark for competitors, many of whom owe their success to emulating its services.

To give you a precise idea of what you get with an ExpressVPN subscription, I’ve listed all of its features below:

Core VPN features

ExpressVPN gives users everything they need to gain online privacy and security. Its proprietary Lightway protocol is built to provide faster speeds and optimal security, making Express an ideal choice for users wanting to stream or play games with added protection.

OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols (iOS) are also available, giving you plenty of options. These protocols are implemented using watertight AES-256 encryption, which can’t be easily cracked.

Users seeking added protection can leverage the OpenVPN protocol, which is obfuscated by default. This makes it a reliable VPN for users in regions with overreaching censorship and surveillance.

A strict no-logs policy means that ExpressVPN never tracks user activities, source IP addresses, or records of the VPN servers used each session. TrustedServer technology gives users access to RAM-based servers that are wiped clean with every reboot. This helps protect against the threat of server raids – and provides the VPN with added control over its infrastructure in case of an emergency.

The VPN has undergone independent third-party audits, which were carried out by PricewaterhouseCoopers and Cure53. These audits and penetration tests mean you can trust the VPN to work as advertised for privacy and security purposes.

The auto-connect feature differs depending on which version of the app you use. On Windows, the auto-connect only connects to the VPN when you launch the VPN. When enabled, the VPN connects as soon as you launch your computer.

On Android, the auto-connect feature is a bit more substantial. You can set the VPN to auto-connect when you join networks not listed as trusted. This ensures that the VPN connects automatically whenever you join an unfamiliar network.

Advanced security & privacy features

ExpressVPN’s security features offer the highest levels of online VPN protection. Below, I listed additional features ExpressVPN offers to optimize your privacy and protect against browser vulnerabilities.

• Kill switch (Network Lock): Prevents accidental data leaks by blocking internet access if the VPN connection drops.
• Split tunneling: This allows you to route some apps or websites through the VPN while keeping others on your standard internet connection.
• DNS leak protection: Prevents IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks to ensure your activities are always hidden from local networks, ISPs, government snoops, and malicious actors.
• Post-quantum protection: This future-proofs the VPN’s encryption to prevent it from being vulnerable to emerging threats posed by quantum computing.
• Obfuscation: This feature is available by default when you select the OpenVPN protocol. It conceals VPN traffic as regular HTTPS bound for a website, making connecting easier and preventing ISPs from detecting VPN use. This is useful for avoiding detection in countries where VPN use could get you in trouble.

Additional features

ExpressVPN is slightly lacking in advanced features. Unlike competitors like NordVPN or Surfshark, it does not offer port forwarding or multi-hop connections.

For example, port forwarding can enhance torrenting performance when seeding. Multi-hop adds an extra layer of encryption by routing traffic through multiple servers. You also will not find specialized servers, Tor over VPN, or dedicated IP addresses – so if you want these features, you should consider alternative providers.

The good news is that ExpressVPN has all the core features most home internet users need. It even has some unique features that enhance the VPN’s versatility and functionality.

Extra features:

1. Trusted server services (diskless servers): These RAM-only servers ensure data passing through ExpressVPN’s servers is constantly refreshed, adding a robust layer of security beyond standard RAM-based functionality. Diskless servers allow ExpressVPN to wipe all stored data each time they are rebooted.
2. Password manager: ExpressVPN Keys offers a secure and free password manager that anybody can use to store and manage their passwords.
3. Aircove router: ExpressVPN’s pre-configured router with Wi-Fi 6 ensures seamless protection for all connected devices on a network. This removes the need to install a VPN on individual devices.
4. Smart DNS: ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer lets you access US streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu on many devices that don’t support VPN apps.
5. ShuffleIP: This feature dynamically changes your IP address during a session, ensuring that each website you visit sees a different IP. Because it operates on the server side, it’s available across all ExpressVPN apps. ShuffleIP assigns IP addresses from a shared pool in real time, offering additional protection against correlation attacks.

Note: ShuffleIP limits your ability to maintain the same IP address across sessions. This may be inconvenient for users who need a consistent IP for gaming, accessing freelance work platforms (e.g., Fiverr or Upwork), or online casinos and gambling sites. If a static IP is essential to you, consider alternatives like Surfshark or IPVanish. These offer static IPs at no extra cost.

Smart DNS at no added cost

Streaming enthusiasts will appreciate ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer Smart DNS service. It allows you to access US streaming platforms on devices that don’t natively support VPN apps, such as smart TVs and gaming consoles.

MediaStreamer proved invaluable for watching Netflix USA on an older Samsung TV during my tests. I could also switch my IP address location on my Xbox and Quest 3 headset, which allowed me to access regional game servers and rent US-only movies on BigScreen.

Remember that the Smart DNS feature does not provide the privacy protection you get when using the full VPN app.

ExpressVPN price and plans

ExpressVPN keeps things refreshingly simple by including all its features in every plan. There are no confusing upsells or extra bundles to worry about – the only difference is how long you choose to subscribe. Longer plans come with additional savings to reward you for sticking around, which is how it should be!

Remember that the advertised prices typically apply to your first billing cycle only. When your subscription period ends, it will auto-renew for the non-discounted rate, which might be higher.

The two-year plan is your best bet if you’re after the best value. It still isn’t the cheapest VPN, but many people feel it’s worth paying a premium for the quality and performance you get with ExpressVPN. There is a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can test the VPN risk-free (more on these below).

The only downside to ExpressVPN’s simple subscription model is that you can’t upgrade to a fancy security suite with additional features like antivirus, Dark Web monitoring, cyber insurance, identity theft protection, and secure cloud storage. If you are interested in a VPN that bundles these services with a VPN (for added value), you may want to shop elsewhere.

Subscription plans

The 2-year plan comes with four additional months for free, so you get 28 months in total.

Discounts

ExpressVPN offers discounts to users willing to commit for longer. The monthly price significantly decreases if you opt for a one or two-year plan.

To make the VPN even better value, we have a special offer for our readers. Using our unique link, you can unlock exclusive discounts and benefits, such as additional free months or bigger savings on longer plans that are not always available directly on the ExpressVPN website.

These exclusive coupons give our readers even more value, so follow the link on this page to get the biggest discount possible!

Money-back guarantee

ExpressVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. New users can test out the service on any device without restrictions. If you are dissatisfied for any reason, then you can request a full refund within 30 days.

Refund requests are handled directly by ExpressVPN, ensuring a simple and reliable process. The best thing about Express is that it does not impose any limits on who can ask for a refund (or the reasons behind wanting a refund).

Testing the money-back guarantee

To assess ExpressVPN’s money-back guarantee, I subscribed to a one-month plan and requested a refund after three weeks. I was not asked to provide a reason for requesting a refund.

However, I did have to confirm that I wanted to cancel and get a refund three times in total, which is a bit overkill. Other than that one minor quibble, however, the process was seamless. ExpressVPN’s support team processed my refund within five business days, and the cash appeared back in my account.

Free trial

A 7-day free trial is available for all of ExpressVPN’s plans. You can get this via the website or by subscribing via mobile app stores. Using this free trial requires you to provide valid payment details. However, no charges will be made until the trial ends, and you can cancel before being charged.

Payment methods

ExpressVPN accepts a wide range of payment options:

• Credit cards and PayPal.
• Bitcoin payments for users seeking greater anonymity (via BitPay).
• Alternative methods like UnionPay, iDeal, Sofort, GiroPay, and Mint Prepaid.

Does ExpressVPN offer value for money?

ExpressVPN offers high-quality performance, excellent security features, and the ability to unblock streaming platforms. However, it lacks some of the features available with cheaper VPNs like Surfshark and NordVPN – which may be enough to put some users off.

Its wide server network, robust privacy protections, and proprietary features, such as Lightway and TrustedServer technology, make it an attractive choice for privacy-conscious users and streaming enthusiasts.

Overall, ExpressVPN’s performance makes it a highly reliable and versatile VPN. The two-year plan is pretty affordable. Best of all, the ExpressVPN refund policy lets you test the VPN on your devices risk-free and get your money back if you’re unsatisfied.

Speed – Is ExpressVPN Fast?

When choosing a VPN, speed is always critical. A slow VPN makes it hard to stream, tricky to make video calls without lag, frustrating to download files and torrents, and impossible to play multiplayer games that require low latency.

Like most other internet users, I need a VPN that protects my privacy without affecting my browsing, streaming, or gaming performance. For this reason, I always prioritize VPN speeds when testing popular VPNs.

The good news? ExpressVPN’s high-quality server infrastructure consistently delivers some of the fastest VPN speeds. This makes it one of the best VPNs for data-intensive tasks like HD streaming, seamless video conferencing, and speedy downloads, even during peak usage hours.

If you’re curious about how we test speeds, follow the link to learn more about our speed testing methodology. Here is a list of things I looked for when testing ExpressVPN’s speeds:

1. Server selection: I tested servers in multiple regions (the US, the UK, and Hong Kong) to see how well ExpressVPN performs locally and internationally.
2. Time of day: To account for varying levels of internet congestion, I conducted multiple tests in the morning, at noon, and in the evening. I used these results to get an average for each session and a global average.
3. Test environment: I used a Windows virtual machine installed on a UK-based test. I then used Speedtest by Ookla to measure download and upload speeds. The baseline connection speed without a VPN was 226 Mbps.

Below, I have provided all my test results in a table. These results demonstrate that ExpressVPN knocks it out of the park in terms of VPN speeds. The VPN offered excellent consistency across a wide variety of locations and at different times of day:

Speed test results

As you can see, ExpressVPN performed well in terms of speed. The global average was impressive, and all the results provided fast enough speeds for HD streaming. That said, we did notice some speed fluctuations between tests, with the biggest speed drop encountered on the Hong Kong server.

Device compatibility (VPN apps)

ExpressVPN offers superb device compatibility, making it accessible across many platforms to a broad user base. The service has custom apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, Fire TV, and Linux (full GUI app). It offers browser extensions that make it easier to secure your browsing activities without leaving your browser.

ExpressVPN makes custom router firmware that you can install on compatible routers. This allows you to set up your whole Wi-Fi network on ExpressVPN and protect every device in your home with just one of your permitted connections.

Regarding simultaneous connections, ExpressVPN allows users to connect up to eight devices at the same time. This is usually enough for most power users and families. However,  competitors like IPVanish and Surfshark come with unlimited device connections.

Overall, I found the apps to be user-friendly. They have a clean interface and are intuitively designed to allow for quick setup and easy access to advanced features like split tunneling and network lock (kill switch).

ExpressVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices:

• Desktop Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook.
• Mobile Operating Systems: Android, iOS (iPhone/iPad).
• Smart TVs and streaming devices: Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV/Fire Stick, Android TV, Samsung Smart TVs, Chromecast, Roku, Nvidia Shield, Mi Box.
• Gaming consoles: PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck.
• Other devices: Kindle, Blackberry.
• Web browsers: Browser extensions are available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
• Routers: ExpressVPN can be used with many VPN-compatible router models (including ASUS WRT, ASUS Merlin, DD-WRT, Linksys, Netgear, Sabai, and Tomato.) Alternatively, you can buy ExpressVPN’s Aircove router, which comes with the VPN pre-installed. This router gives you a seamless out-of-the-box experience. Anybody wondering how to set up ExpressVPN on a router can find setup guides for various models on its website.

Platform-specific details

Here’s an overview of the features available on each of the most popular platforms:

Windows

macOS

Android

The app is optimized for mobile use, and it has a reputation for providing a smooth experience even on older smartphones and tablets.

iOS

Linux

ExpressVPN does not offer a full GUI client for Linux; instead, you can control it using the browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. You will need to use the Command Line Interface to install the VPN on Linux and control advanced features like the kill switch.

Once that’s done, you can use the browser extension as a GUI workaround! This gives Linux users plenty of options for setting up and using ExpressVPN on distros like Debian and Ubuntu. Linux users can access a full list of Linux VPN commands on ExpressVPN’s website.

Browser extensions

ExpressVPN offers lightweight browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. A primary benefit of ExpressVPN’s browser extensions is that they are designed to remote control the main VPN client, which provides the same level of protection as the main client. Many VPNs only offer a browser-based proxy without encryption.

The only potential drawback of this setup is that you will need to install both the browser extension and the main client. This could be an issue for people in offices who have restrictions on installing applications. In this case, a standalone browser proxy (like those offered by many other VPNs) may be more useful. Whereas a VPN app might violate your office IT policy, a standalone browser extension might not.

Is ExpressVPN easy to use?

I tested ExpressVPN on Windows, iOS, and Android to evaluate its usability and reliability across platforms. I’m pleased to report that ExpressVPN’s apps performed seamlessly and offered excellent functionality. The consistent design across devices ensures an intuitive and smooth transition between platforms.

During my tests, ExpressVPN proved to be exceptionally easy to use. This makes it a decent VPN option for beginners needing reliable privacy and location spoofing services. The installation process was quick and straightforward on all platforms.

After downloading the app, enter the activation code from your ExpressVPN dashboard, and you’re ready to go. This straightforward setup process makes it easy for beginners to get started.

ExpressVPN for Windows

ExpressVPN’s Windows app excels as a VPN for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. While it lacks port forwarding, the app’s ease of use and ability to bypass geo-restrictions make it an outstanding choice for accessing region-locked content.

ExpressVPN’s ability to bypass network blocks makes it a useful VPN for Netflix. As well as accessing other regional streaming services from around the globe. You can learn more about my experience using ExpressVPN to access region-locked content later in this guide.

Downloading the app from the website takes less than a minute. A setup wizard handles installation, ensuring you get all the necessary VPN components and TAP adapters without needing to do anything technical.

Once installed, the app opens to a clean interface with an on/off button and a smart location automatically selected for optimal performance.

The first time you connect, ExpressVPN gives you a message that reminds you to use the VPN with all your devices:

Overall, I felt that the Windows app was highly polished. Its design focuses on ease of use without sacrificing functionality, making it a fantastic VPN for home users who want online privacy without the headache caused by more complicated VPNs.

Features are easy to find

During my tests, I found navigating the app to be highly intuitive. Thanks to the app’s well-organized menu, I found features like split tunneling, network lock (kill switch), and Advanced Protection (including Threat Manager and content filtering) easily.

The only real caveat is that you won’t find any use-specific servers. With ExpressVPN, all servers are for all use cases and should work for streaming, torrenting, and other use cases. However, you may sometimes need to test a few different servers to find one that works for streaming. It’s not necessarily a deal breaker, but it is also not as easy to find a streaming-optimized server as with some competitors.

The app includes post-quantum protection for enhanced future-proof security, but you will need to select this by choosing its proprietary Lightway protocol. This was probably the hardest feature to locate in the menu, so I’m mentioning it here.

Advanced options, such as choosing a VPN protocol, are easy to find for those who need more control.

I liked ExpressVPN’s unique NAT heartbeats feature (part of the Lightway protocol by default). This ensures stable connections and prevents unwanted disconnections from the VPN, giving you seamless VPN protection even if your device goes idle.

Reliable split tunneling

During my tests, I used Split Tunneling to route my Chrome browser outside of the VPN while leaving other applications protected by the VPN.

This allowed me to browse using my regular IP while ensuring all my torrenting activities were routed through the VPN. This makes it a powerful VPN for travel and for people who rely on secure connections for some activities while still accessing local content.

For example, split tunneling can be useful for preventing ISPs from becoming suspicious in countries where VPN use is frowned upon, such as the UAE or China. Routing specific data outside the VPN allows your ISP to see ordinary internet activity, helping you blend in more effectively in restrictive regions.

Did ExpressVPN for Windows work as advertised?

Yes. During my three weeks of testing, the Windows app performed reliably without crashes or slowdowns. I could easily play games like Call of Duty: Warzone and stream 4K videos on Netflix and other platforms without issues.

I tested the kill switch by forcing the app to crash, and it successfully blocked all internet traffic until the VPN connection was re-established. This demonstrates that the Network Lock feature operates at the system level, ensuring activities like torrenting remain private and never leak to your ISP.

This level of reliability makes ExpressVPN for Windows an excellent choice for bypassing blocks at work or in countries with heavy censorship.

Auto-connect is lacking

My only real quibble is that the auto-connect feature for Windows isn’t as robust as the version available on Android. Since I frequently use public wifi, I’d like to see the Trusted Networks feature included in the Windows app, which is on Android and iOS.

That said, the auto-connect feature worked for me without issues—it launched and connected the VPN automatically whenever I started my computer. The VPN also connected each time I logged into Windows, though this behavior can be disabled in the settings.

ExpressVPN for Android

The Android app is perfectly optimized for mobile use, providing a smooth experience even on older devices. This is a testament to the fact that the app was designed to go easy on system resources.

The one-tap connection feature provides instant VPN access, and advanced settings like split tunneling, protocol selection, and post-quantum protection are intuitively organized within the app.

My only real issue was locating the Advanced Protection tab to enable Threat Manager (ExpressVPN’s ad and tracker blocking feature). I searched the “Options” menu for around ten minutes (with a lot of head-scratching and double-checking), before ultimately finding it in Upgrades.

Did ExpressVPN for Android work as advertised?

Yes. Besides that one minor quibble mentioned above, the app worked without issues to provide me with privacy and freedom of access (I tested using a Samsung tablet around 4 years old). I was happy with the app, which maintained a stable, quick connection to all the server locations I needed.

I liked the NAT heartbeats feature (which you can turn on by clicking Advanced Options under the Lightway protocol). It regularly sends packets to ensure the VPN connection doesn’t go idle. This ensures that notifications arrive promptly and helps prevent VPN disconnections that could put you at risk.

I was highly impressed by ExpressVPN’s auto-connect functionality on Android (and iOS). It connects the VPN automatically at startup and activates when joining unknown or untrusted networks. This makes ExpressVPN an exceptional VPN for travel and mobile security.

The app’s flexibility allows me to customize all its most important settings easily. For instance, enabling auto-connect and configuring Split Tunneling for specific apps gave me greater control when multi-tasking.

Whether you need a VPN for gaming on Android, bypassing geo-restrictions while traveling, or accessing restricted content at work or on campus, ExpressVPN for Android provides a dependable and user-friendly experience.

Overall user experience

ExpressVPN impressed me with its consistent performance across Windows, Android, and iOS apps. What stood out most is how its mobile VPN apps are almost more impressive than the desktop versions – which is not usually the case. This makes ExpressVPN well worth considering if your priority is a highly reliable VPN for a smartphone or tablet.

The mobile apps’ intuitive design and advanced features like auto-connect on untrusted networks and Split Tunneling deliver exceptional usability and reliability. Combined with strong geo-unblocking capabilities, ExpressVPN is a standout option for users seeking a robust VPN for travel, streaming, and everyday privacy.

Server network

ExpressVPN’s server network is extensive, providing wide options for accessing geo-restricted content and maintaining online privacy. During my tests, I focused on server availability, connection stability, and speed consistency across locations. ExpressVPN excelled in all these areas, proving to be a robust choice for casual and advanced users.

Below, I have broken down ExpressVPN’s server metrics, highlighted unique features, and compared the VPN with competitors.

Server metrics:

• Server count: ExpressVPN operates over 3,000 servers across 105+ countries, offering substantial global coverage. This extensive network ensures access to IP addresses in virtually any region, making it a strong choice for travelers, ex-pats, and those bypassing geo-restrictions.
• Country coverage: With servers in 105+ countries, ExpressVPN provides broad coverage rivaling top VPNs. Its network includes regions often underserved by competitors, ensuring users can reliably access services like streaming and online gaming worldwide.
• Physical and virtual servers: ExpressVPN combines physical and virtual servers. Physical servers provide IP addresses from their actual location, while virtual servers use DNS routing to offer IPs from other regions. However, ExpressVPN does not label virtual servers in its app, requiring users to check its website for this information – a feature that competitors like NordVPN handle better.
• ShuffleIP: This unique feature provides you with a different IP address when you visit different domains. This is achieved by providing you with dynamic IPs from a pool (in the location that you require).

Comparison with competitors

While ExpressVPN’s server count of 3,000 is smaller than that of some competitors like CyberGhost (11,500+) or Private Internet Access (35,000+), its focus on speed and geographic diversity ensures consistently excellent performance. Additionally, the network’s high-quality infrastructure prioritizes user privacy and security.

ExpressVPN doesn’t categorize its servers by use cases like some VPNs (e.g., CyberGhost’s streaming-optimized servers). All servers are designed to handle streaming, torrenting, gaming, and general browsing. During testing, I found ExpressVPN’s servers reliable for bypassing geo-restrictions and unblocking services like Netflix and Disney+.

Below, you can see how ExpressVPN’s network compares to its closest rivals:

Unique or rare locations

ExpressVPN impressed me when accessing servers in unique or less common locations, including Africa, South America, and Asia-Pacific. This extensive global reach makes it a top choice for users needing reliable IPs in remote or underrepresented areas.

Additionally, ExpressVPN’s ability to mask IP addresses and bypass website blocks helps access restricted content at work, school, or in countries with heavy censorship. Features like ShuffleIP further bolster privacy and anonymity in these scenarios.

My only quibble is that ExpressVPN does not label its virtual server locations in its apps. Instead, you must check where your data is routed on its website. The best of its competitors, such as NordVPN, clearly label which servers are virtual inside the app. We would prefer this kind of labeling to be added to the ExpressVPN clients.

Does ExpressVPN work in China?

Yes. ExpressVPN is one of the few VPNs that can still bypass China’s Great Firewall. The service reliably obfuscates VPN traffic when you use the OpenVPN protocol, making it indistinguishable from regular HTTPS traffic. Users get secure access to restricted websites and services while in China.

Getting a subscription to ExpressVPN (and other popular VPNs) can be difficult inside China because the ISPs block VPN websites. For this reason, we recommend getting your VPN subscription before traveling to China.

For users in China struggling to access ExpressVPN’s website, the service offers a Dark Web mirror accessible through the Tor network. This ensures anyone can subscribe or manage their account, even in countries with strict internet censorship.

ExpressVPN for streaming and unblocking

ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable VPNs for streaming libraries and bypassing geo-restrictions globally. Its expansive server network and high-speed infrastructure ensure a seamless and lag-free streaming experience. Below, I have outlined ExpressVPN’s streaming capabilities and the key features that make it a top choice for accessing geo-restricted content.

Streaming overview

ExpressVPN works consistently with all major streaming platforms, delivering fast speeds that support HD and 4K streaming. One of its standout features is its ability to bypass geo-restrictions, allowing users to access regional libraries on Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Sling. During testing, I could reliably unblock various Netflix libraries, including Netflix US and UK, Netflix Japan, and Netflix Canada, without buffering or interruptions.

ExpressVPN’s split tunneling feature lets users optimize their connection by routing only their streaming app through the VPN, preserving bandwidth for other applications. This functionality is particularly useful for households with multiple users or devices, ensuring lag-free streaming even during peak hours.

Smart DNS (MediaStreamer)

ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer offers an alternative for devices that don’t support VPN apps natively. This Smart DNS feature allows users to bypass geo-restrictions on devices like Apple TV, Roku, Streaming Boxes (like Nvidia Shield and Mi Box), Samsung Smart TVs, and Chromecast. While MediaStreamer prioritizes speed over encryption, it delivers high-quality streaming performance on platforms like Netflix and sports streaming services like ESPN, FOX, and NBC.

Streaming service compatibility

As you can see in the table above, ExpressVPN impressed me with its streaming reliability and performance. The service maintained consistent speeds when using nearby and distant servers, and it worked smoothly to watch 4K movies.

The Lightway protocol delivered the best performance, though the OpenVPN protocol also held its own. Another positive aspect of ExpressVPN is its US servers in 12 cities like New York and Los Angeles. It’s fantastic for bypassing blackout games on ESPN, MLB TV, and NFL Network.

Note: ExpressVPN’s website claims to offer servers in 18 US cities. However, I checked the Windows, Android, and iOS apps, which only listed 12 US cities.

Netflix

Are you interested in using a VPN to access your home Netflix catalog on vacation? Perhaps you want to watch foreign movies—a great reason for foreign language students to get a VPN!

ExpressVPN works with Netflix in more than 15 different Netflix regions, including the US, the UK, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, and Australia. This makes it a fantastic option for streaming Netflix abroad, at work, or in school.

Does ExpressVPN work with international streaming platforms?

At Comparitech, we primarily test VPNs on popular US TV platforms. However, we also want to ensure each VPN caters to a global audience. With this in mind, I decided to test a selection of international servers to see whether I could access free-to-view TV streams. Below, you can see the results of my tests using ExpressVPN.

• Germany: I watched ARD Mediathek. This channel is usually region-locked to Germany, but I could stream it from Canada using ExpressVPN.
• France: I used the ExpressVPN Paris server to watch France.tv. I was able to stream live TV. However, the quality was pretty bad for me as you can see in the screenshot below.

• Brazil: I could watch GloboPlay Brazil using a free account while connected to the ExpressVPN Brazil-2 server. The quality was fantastic.
• Canada: I connected to an ExpressVPN server Canada Toronto-2 to watch CBC Gem for free. The VPN worked great and the quality was decent.
• Australia: Lastly I tested the Australian server to watch 10 Play. I watched The Drew Barrymore Show while connected to the Australia-Sydney server.

Does ExpressVPN allow torrenting?

Yes, ExpressVPN supports torrenting. Unlike some VPNs that require you to use dedicated P2P servers, all of ExpressVPN’s servers support torrenting. You don’t need to search for specific servers. You can even use the Smart Location feature to automatically connect to the fastest server for your location and use that for torrenting.

ExpressVPN’s emphasis on privacy and security makes it a great torrenting VPN. The Network Lock (kill switch) ensures that you will never leak your torrents to your ISP. I tested the kill switch using an extension called autorefresh.io to refresh an IP checking tool every 0.4 seconds. I then crashed ExpressVPN using Task Manager. The kill switch completely cut off my internet until I reconnected, which means that it works at the system level to block all traffic from escaping the secure tunnel.

The service is compatible with popular torrent clients like qBittorrent, uTorrent, and BitTorrent. I tested ExpressVPN using qBittorrent on an Asus Zenbook laptop. The file downloaded in under 2 minutes, which is extremely impressive. I used a server in the US (New York), which is close to my test location. For the best speeds, I recommend you use a server close to your location.

Frequent torrent users aiming to maintain a better leech-to-seed ratio should note that ExpressVPN does not offer port forwarding. This feature facilitates peer connections for seeding. Additionally, ExpressVPN does not provide a SOCKS5 proxy, which some users use to bypass torrenting restrictions and get faster torrent downloads.

Overall, I found ExpressVPN to be good for casual torrenting. Its fast and secure connections ensure you can download torrents privately without exposing your IP address to the swarm. Power users who prioritize port forwarding may prefer alternatives like ProtonVPN, PureVPN, or PrivateVPN.

Is ExpressVPN safe?

ExpressVPN has a reputation for being a safe and secure VPN. It employs robust encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and TrustedServer technology to safeguard user privacy. It also undergoes regular third-party audits. This helps it catch any issues before they arise and allows it to stay ahead of hackers.

Below, I have compiled a list of features that make ExpressVPN secure for privacy purposes:

Security features

ExpressVPN’s apps offer robust tunneling protocols that offer watertight encryption. You can see the various protocols and security features it offers below:

• AES-256 encryption: ExpressVPN employs this military-grade encryption standard, ensuring your data remains secure against potential attackers.
• Network lock (kill switch): This feature blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
• Split tunneling: Allows users to choose which apps route through the VPN and which do not, offering flexibility.
• Threat manager: This feature can be toggled on and off in the desktop and mobile VPN apps. It blocks trackers and malicious domains for added protection while browsing.
• TrustedServer technology: Ensures all server data is erased with every reboot, as servers run entirely on RAM.
• ShuffleIP: Changes your IP address during sessions, causing different domains to detect different IPs. This reduces the likelihood of tracking and helps prevent correlation attacks.
• DNS leak protection: This prevents any DNS request information from escaping the encrypted VPN tunnel. As a result, DNS queries are always routed securely through ExpressVPN’s servers.
• Leak testing: I carried out tests to check ExpressVPN for DNS, WebRTC, and IP leaks. You can see the results of my tests below, which all came back negative. This means the VPN is working as advertised to provide privacy for its users.

Logging policy

ExpressVPN is an entirely logless VPN, which means it never retains any records of your activities or the VPN servers you connect to. This includes keeping no connection logs that might create a threat of correlation attacks. I checked the policy carefully to see whether it had any grey areas and was happy to find the company does not log IP addresses, browsing histories, or session activity.

Here are the key points of their no-logs policy:

• No usage logs: ExpressVPN never keeps records of its users’ activities, communications metadata, or websites visited.
• No connection logs: ExpressVPN does not store your source IP address, outgoing VPN IP address, connection timestamps, or session durations.
• Aggregate Data: The service only collects minimal, non-identifiable data, such as app version and aggregate bandwidth usage. This is used internally for troubleshooting and service optimization (such as figuring out when a server location requires additional IPs or bandwidth). It does not affect user privacy.
• Jurisdiction: ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, which means it benefits from being in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no data retention laws.
• Transparency: ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently audited multiple times. This means you can trust the VPN is doing the things it claims in its policies.

Encryption protocols

When you open the ExpressVPN app settings, you will see various options that allow you to customize the VPN security. You can pick between multiple VPN protocols and even fiddle with how those protocols are implemented. Here are your options:

• Lightway Protocol: This protocol is proprietary to ExpressVPN and designed for speed and security. It has been upgraded to DTLS 1.3 and includes post-quantum support. You can enable Lightway with AES-256 or ChaCha20 encryption, and you can enable NAT heartbeats in the app.
• OpenVPN, IKEv2: These widely trusted protocols are available across the various ExpressVPN apps. IKEv2 is found in the iOS app and macOS apps only. OpenVPN can be set up using UDP or TCP depending on your needs (UDP offers faster speeds while TCP is slightly more robust in terms of security). OpenVPN and IKEv2 both leverage strong AES-256 encryption. OpenVPN comes with obfuscation by default.
• ChaCha20 and AES-256-GCM: Available through the Lightway protocol, these encryption methods provide strong security and excellent performance.
• Perfect Forward Secrecy: This feature is available by default for OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2 connections. PFS ensures unique encryption keys for every session, which prevents past data from being compromised if a future key is exposed.

Controversies

Although ExpressVPN has maintained a strong reputation for privacy, it has suffered a few minor controversies during its 15 years of business. Only one of these directly affected VPN users. Despite this, I have included all three incidents below for greater transparency.

Acquisition by Kape Technologies (2021)

In 2021, ExpressVPN was acquired by Kape Technologies. This raised some eyebrows among privacy advocates due to the company’s controversial history. The company was initially known as Crossrider and had ties to adware development. Many privacy advocates have pointed out that this is a massive conflict of interest for a VPN.

However, it’s important to note that by the time Kape acquired ExpressVPN, it had already completely changed its name and business focus, and it was no longer involved in adware development or data analysis for marketing purposes.

In 2018, Crossrider rebranded as Kape Technologies and shifted its focus entirely to privacy and security services. This marked a significant break from its earlier ventures. Since then, Kape has invested heavily in acquiring well-known VPN brands, including CyberGhost, Private Internet Access (PIA), and ZenMate.

Thus, when Kape added ExpressVPN to its portfolio, it had already been a privacy-focused business for several years. In 2024, the business worked exclusively in the privacy services sector for seven years. There is no evidence that the business engages in practices that harm VPN users’ interests.

CIO’s involvement in UAE hacking (2021)

In 2021, the US government disclosed that ExpressVPN’s CIO, Daniel Gericke, aided the UAE in hacking American targets as part of “Project Raven.” This led to fines for Gericke, who agreed to a settlement with US authorities.

Following these revelations, ExpressVPN acknowledged knowing about Gericke’s hacking history when hiring him, explaining that they brought him on for his expertise in penetration testing to enhance the VPN’s security.

In 2023, Gericke parted ways with ExpressVPN on his own terms. There is no evidence that Gericke’s history as a state-sponsored hacker negatively impacted the VPN. On the contrary, it is widely believed that his contributions improved ExpressVPN’s security.

Split tunneling bug (2024)

In 2024, researchers uncovered a bug in ExpressVPN’s Windows app that caused the Split Tunneling feature to expose the domains some users visited. ExpressVPN disabled Split Tunneling until they fixed the issue. ExpressVPN patched the vulnerability quickly. It also led to the implementation of additional safeguards.

While these bugs are unfortunate, there is always an underlying threat of bugs in any software. Overall, ExpressVPN’s handling of the incident was professional.

ExpressVPN safety conclusion

While these incidents may sound concerning, ExpressVPN has moved past them by addressing potential vulnerabilities, implementing regular audits, and maintaining a bug bounty program to stay ahead of hackers.

The company has also emphasized that it operates independently under its strict privacy policies and has not made any changes to its business practices following its acquisition by Kape Technologies.

ExpressVPN regularly undergoes audits by reputable third parties such as PwC and Cure53. These audits have validated the security of its no-logs policy, its TrustedServer technology (which runs on RAM-only servers), and the overall safety of its apps.

ExpressVPN customer support

ExpressVPN offers a variety of customer support channels to assist users with inquiries or technical issues. While its support system is effective for most questions, some limitations may frustrate users during urgent or complex situations. Here’s an overview of my experience and a breakdown of the available support options:

My experience with customer support

I contacted ExpressVPN’s live chat support during my testing to ask various simple and more complicated questions. The chat connected me to an agent quickly each time, but the process wasn’t always as smooth as I had hoped.

Some ExpressVPN agents will ask you to provide the email associated with your account before proceeding with live chat support. However, other agents do not request this, so you can always start a new chat and avoid handing over your email if you want to.

I noticed that the agents would sometimes disappear for a few minutes after asking you how they could help. The agents likely handle multiple chats simultaneously, which overwhelms them. These minor quibbles aside, I found the ExpressVPN agents knowledgeable and polite.

Customer support channels

ExpressVPN provides several methods for contacting its customer support. It also offers resources on its website that you can use to fix any problems yourself:

• 24/7 live chat: The live chat feature connects users directly to an agent for real-time assistance. It is fast and effective for resolving most inquiries. However, delays may occur if agents multitask with several chats during peak hours.
• Email support: If you don’t need help on the spot, you can send an email. Response times vary, with some users reporting delays of up to two days. However, when I sent a few questions via email, I received responses within 12 hours. The system emails you summaries of live chat sessions, allowing you to review what the agent said, which is especially helpful for technical requests.
• In-app support: ExpressVPN offers customer support directly through the ExpressVPN app. In the desktop app, this will launch support in your browser, while on Android and iOS, it launches a window within the app for you to chat to the agent.
• Online knowledge base: ExpressVPN’s website provides an extensive knowledge base with setup guides, troubleshooting instructions, and FAQs. This recourse lets you find solutions to problems yourself and serves as an extra resource for agents trying to talk you through resolving an issue or setting up the VPN.

Customer support improvement areas

Nothing is perfect. Here are some areas for improvement:

• Email response time: While email support is helpful, waiting up to two days could be annoying. I did not experience such long wait times, but plenty of people on forums like Reddit claim they have.
• Phone support: ExpressVPN does not offer phone support, which could be a drawback for users who prefer verbal communication. I prefer 24/7 live chat because I would rather not spend money on calls. However, your feelings may vary.
• Agent availability: I found that agents occasionally had to multitask during live chats, resulting in delayed responses. This can be annoying, and Express should increase its pool of agents.

Overall, I found ExpressVPN’s customer support to be excellent. Yes, there may be room for improvement, but it is obvious that the VPN is trying to provide constant support to its users. Despite some minor inconveniences, I found the service reliable and effective in answering my questions.

ExpressVPN review conclusion

ExpressVPN is a reputable VPN with a proven track record of providing privacy and online security for its global user base. Its TrustedServer technology, OpenVPN with native obfuscation, and independently audited no-logs policy make it an excellent option for people who need to escape government censorship or bypass blocks at work.

Whether you want to unblock streaming services on vacation, protect your data on public Wi-Fi, or bypass geo-restrictions while at school, ExpressVPN provides a solid solution that delivers fast and reliable connections. This makes it ideal for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Features like MediaStreamer, ShuffleIP, and Threat Protection help to enhance the VPN’s functionality, while its strong encryption and leak protection provide optimal security no matter where you connect. The VPN can also consistently bypass censorship in regions like China, the UAE, Pakistan, and Turkey.

What are the drawbacks? 

ExpressVPN is more expensive than many competitors, and its eight-device connection limit may not be sufficient for larger families. The VPN also lacks advanced features like multi-hop connections, dedicated IP addresses, or Tor-over-VPN, which could be a deal breaker for some power users.

The browser extensions require the desktop app to function. This is generally an advantage for privacy but might put off users who can’t install a full VPN client due to workplace restrictions. The Linux app lacks a graphical interface, but you can control it using the browser extension as a workaround. That is actually pretty cool.

The biggest quibble will almost certainly be the cost. ExpressVPN is pretty expensive. Due to the budget-friendly price of some of its biggest competitors, it is getting harder to justify those extra costs. That said, ExpressVPN remains one of the most reliable and popular VPNs on the market, and it is still popular with hundreds of thousands of users around the globe due to its reliability.

What are the best alternatives to ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN might feel a bit pricey for some users. If you’re looking for something more affordable with similar security and features, NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent alternatives. For those who need port forwarding or unlimited connections, other options might suit you better. Surfshark is the best pick if you’re after the cheapest VPN with unlimited connections, while Proton VPN is ideal for advanced users who need port forwarding. If you prioritize a wider selection of US servers, IPVanish is a better fit.

ExpressVPN video review

Further reading: ExpressVPN comparisons

How does ExpressVPN compare to some of the other leading VPNs? You can find out in the guides below:

• ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
• ExpressVPN vs Surfshark
• ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost

ExpressVPN Reviews FAQ