I’ve been a copywriting journalist reviewing ExpressVPN. It stands out among the top virtual private network (VPN) options. It’s just a step ahead of Surfshark and NordVPN. ExpressVPN received a high 8.8 rating from CNET. This shows it’s top-notch for cyber security, online privacy, internet freedom, data encryption, and anonymous browsing.
My examination of ExpressVPN covered tests on its speeds, privacy, usability, and more. The conclusion? It ranks as one of Earth’s best VPNs. It offers a huge global reach, remote access perks, and top-notch privacy practices.
ExpressVPN shines by focusing on what users find crucial. It has a vast server network around the globe. This, combined with fast speeds, easily overpowers geo-restrictions and ISP throttling. It opens the doors to enjoying streaming services no matter where you are.
Key Takeaways
- ExpressVPN takes the lead in the VPN realm.
- It offers strong data encryption and anonymous browsing.
- It has a wide server network for remote access and geo-restrictions avoidance.
- It’s great at unblocking streaming services with quick, steady connections.
- Its user privacy and open approach receive much acclaim.
What Is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is a top virtual private network (VPN) service known for strong cyber security and unmatched online privacy. It uses advanced data encryption to keep your internet actions secret. This means your online life is guarded from unwanted viewers.
ExpressVPN’s Key Features
ExpressVPN stands out by hiding your IP address. This keeps your actual location secret and lets you get around geo-restrictions. It’s perfect for streaming, downloading torrents, and broadening your access to online content.
ExpressVPN’s Global Server Network
With over 3,000 servers in 146 locations across 106 countries, ExpressVPN has a huge global VPN network. This variety helps you connect to the internet safely and privately no matter where you are. Its broad reach makes it ideal for anyone who cares about cyber security and online privacy.
The service is especially strong in Europe and the United States. It has servers in 47 of Europe’s 50 countries. Plus, it offers servers in places with internet restrictions, like Turkey and Vietnam. This shows ExpressVPN’s aim to give everyone unrestricted internet freedom and open access to information.
Speed: How Fast Is ExpressVPN?
When looking at VPN speeds, it’s key to think about how well they work. This means diving deep into the facts to see where ExpressVPN stands in our tough speed tests.
ExpressVPN Speed Test Results
Our team in Louisville, Kentucky, checked how fast ExpressVPN ran. We looked at its speeds using both OpenVPN and Lightway on MacOS and Windows. The results were quite intriguing. Overall, there was a 24.8% drop in speed on average. This was slower than the 18% drop we found in our last round, mostly due to OpenVPN’s slow speeds on Windows. Using OpenVPN there led to a massive 48% drop in speed.
Factors Affecting ExpressVPN Speeds
OpenVPN offers a good mix of privacy and speed. However, it’s not as quick as newer, lighter protocols like WireGuard or ExpressVPN’s Lightway. On average, our tests found OpenVPN cut speeds by 38.5% (29% on MacOS, 48% on Windows). But, with Lightway, this drop is just 11% (7% on MacOS, 15% on Windows).
Our latest tests showed a slight slowdown in ExpressVPN’s speeds overall. Comparatively, other top VPNs like NordVPN saw an 11% dip, Surfshark 17%, and Proton VPN 36%. Regardless, if your internet connection is fast enough and you’re using Lightway or OpenVPN on Mac, you should be good. Your VPN speeds with ExpressVPN will be fine for streaming, downloading, and similar online activities.
Cost and Pricing Plans
ExpressVPN is seen as one of the top choices in the VPN pricing market. Its monthly fees and annual plans might be more costly than others. For instance, the monthly plan costs you $13. That’s more than the $11 you’d pay with Surfshark.
Yet, if you look at the big picture, ExpressVPN could save you money. It’s $60 for six months, or $100 a year. Sure, other VPNs are cheaper. But, when you add the quality and features, the cost balances out.
ExpressVPN’s Subscription Options
ExpressVPN offers three clear subscription plans. You can go for a monthly plan at $12.95. Or, pick the six-month plan for $9.99 a month. The best deal is the yearly plan at a low $6.67 each month. This gives you a big 49% discount over the monthly price.
Payment Methods Accepted by ExpressVPN
Not only does ExpressVPN take standard payments, like credit cards and PayPal. It also accepts cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. This is great for those who care a lot about privacy. It lets them stay anonymous when paying for their VPN subscription.
Subscription Plan |
Monthly Cost |
Savings |
|---|---|---|
Monthly Plan |
$12.95 |
– |
6-Month Plan |
$9.99 |
23% off |
Annual Plan |
$6.67 |
49% off |
Privacy and Security Features
ExpressVPN is dedicated to keeping your online information safe. It relies on strong VPN protocols like OpenVPN and Lightway. These use solid industrial-strength encryption to protect your data.
It does not end there. ExpressVPN also uses a zero-knowledge, 256-bit encrypted DNS. This prevents any data leaks about your online actions.
ExpressVPN’s Encryption and Protocols
ExpressVPN focuses on its VPN protocols and encryption for security. It lets users pick between OpenVPN and Lightway. This means you can choose strong data encryption or fast performance.
Independent Audits and Transparency
Unlike some VPNs, ExpressVPN goes further with its audits. It has shared the results of 12 security audits from 2022 to 2023. These were done by trusted companies like Cure53 and KPMG. This dedication to transparency shows how it values its users’ privacy.
Feature |
ExpressVPN |
|---|---|
Encryption |
Military-grade 256-bit AES encryption |
Protocols |
OpenVPN, Lightway |
Audits |
12 independent audits (2022-2023) |
No-Logs Policy |
Independently verified, no user activity logs |
With top-notch encryption and VPN protocols, plus a history of transparency and security audits, ExpressVPN proves it protects user privacy and data security.
VPN Review: Pros and Cons of ExpressVPN
In my ExpressVPN review, I found that it stands out for many good reasons. It’s not the cheapest VPN you can find, but its high quality justifies the cost. Plus, the company is open about how it operates.
ExpressVPN excels in making things easy for users. Its app is simple and easy to use, yet packed with important features. Things like split tunneling and a kill switch make sure your experience is both smooth and safe.
For watching shows and sharing files, ExpressVPN is a top choice. It works well with many streaming services and supports downloading files securely. This means you can enjoy your favorite programs and movies without worry.
While there are faster VPNs out there, ExpressVPN is quick enough for most tasks. It uses a special protocol called Lightway, which is known for balancing speed with security. This keeps your connection fast and your data safe.
One thing that makes ExpressVPN shine is its help for customers. The company offers live chat and email support all day, every day. There’s also a lot of helpful information available online. This means you can get help easily when you need it.
Overall, ExpressVPN is a top-notch VPN that does well in all areas. Although it’s not the cheapest, its quality and features make it worth the price. For anyone looking for a VPN they can trust, ExpressVPN is a great choice.
Streaming and Torrenting Capabilities
ExpressVPN is great for unblocking a wide range of streaming services. It lets you watch your favorite shows, no matter where you are. It has a special system called MediaStreamer. This system helps you watch content on any device, even if the device can’t use a VPN app. This makes ExpressVPN perfect for watching Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more.
Unblocking Streaming Services with ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN uses a large server network and top security to beat streaming restrictions. It helps you watch Netflix shows from anywhere, see all of Hulu and Disney+, and access other limited services. With ExpressVPN, you can watch what you love without limits.
Is ExpressVPN Good for Torrenting?
ExpressVPN doesn’t just help with streaming – it’s also great for torrenting and sharing files privately and safely. It doesn’t keep any logs of what you do online. Plus, it has features like a kill switch to keep your IP address secret if the VPN connection drops. This is ideal for people who want to keep their online activities private while torrenting.
With its strong points in streaming and file sharing, ExpressVPN is a top choice for many internet users. It supports a wide variety of online activities and keeps your data safe.
ExpressVPN Apps and User Experience
ExpressVPN leads in offering apps that are easy to use and packed with features. They work well on many devices. You’ll find the same great design and functions whether you use them on a computer or phone.
Desktop Apps (Windows, Mac, Linux)
The desktop apps work smoothly on Windows, Mac, and Linux. They look simple but are powerful. You get important tools like split tunneling and a kill switch to protect your online life. These features help both new and experienced VPN users stay safe online.
Mobile Apps (iOS, Android)
Your experience with ExpressVPN apps on iOS and Android is just as good as on a computer. They’re designed to be easy to use, even on small screens. This makes them perfect for phones and tablets. You can rely on them to work well on all your gadgets, providing a smooth user experience everywhere.
What really stands out are the special tools ExpressVPN offers. With things like split tunneling, a kill switch, and an ad blocker built-in, your security is top-notch. The apps are all about being simple yet powerful, making ExpressVPN a top pick for anyone wanting a great VPN service.
VPN Review: Customer Support
ExpressVPN truly shines in customer support among VPN services. They offer round-the-clock live chat, email help, and a big knowledge base. These help users with any problems or questions they might have.
ExpressVPN’s Customer Support Channels
The team at ExpressVPN is known for their professionalism and quick problem solving. They can help with setup, troubleshooting, or any other concerns. They always aim for a good user experience.
In addition to 24/7 live chat and email support, ExpressVPN has a big knowledge base. It has guides and articles to help users. This is great for those who like finding answers on their own.
ExpressVPN stands out for its top-rated customer support. They have lots of ways to reach out and helpful resources. This gives users a lot of confidence in their service.
How to Set Up and Use ExpressVPN
Setting up ExpressVPN is easy. They offer apps that are simple to use and guide you step-by-step. This is great for both tech lovers and newcomers. With ExpressVPN, you can quickly secure your internet and enjoy browsing safely and freely.
ExpressVPN guides you through installing and setting up the VPN. You can use it on many devices like Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. They also work with streaming services. This makes sure you have an easy time setting up and using the VPN.
But what if you want to set up VPN on your router? ExpressVPN’s got you covered. They have guides that help you secure your whole network. This also makes doing so pretty easy, making sure everything runs smoothly.
If you run into any problems, ExpressVPN has your back. They offer detailed user guides and a support team that’s ready to help. This means a worry-free time using their service, knowing they’re there for you.
Conclusion
After looking closely at many VPN services, ExpressVPN shines as a top pick. It might not be the cheapest, but you get what you pay for. Its commitment to keeping your data safe and being clear about privacy stands out. These features make it a great option for anyone wanting a reliable VPN.
ExpressVPN has servers all around the world. It’s great for unblocking content for streaming or downloading via torrents. Plus, it offers some of the best security features out there. These strengths put it high up in the VPN market.
It’s easy to use, too. With straightforward apps and setup, it works well for beginners and pros. This makes using ExpressVPN a good experience for everyone.
Finally, I think ExpressVPN is at the top when it comes to VPNs. It checks all the boxes for many different users. Whether you want better privacy, access to more content, or just a secure internet, it does the job well.
