ExpressVPN Review 2026: Features, Pricing, and Performance

Online security is becoming crucial, and using a VPN has become a necessity these days. ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable virtual private network services, and this ExpressVPN review seeks to determine if this is a fact or just marketing.

ExpressVPN claims to do a lot of things. From uncrackable protection, unblocking geo-restricted content, and even bypassing speed throttling. So we decided to put it to the test to see if all these claims can stand on their own.

By the end of this review, you’ll know if it still earns its reputation or if you should look at other options. So keep reading to find out more.

Quick Overview

CRITERIA	FEATURES
Security	– Lightway – IKEv2 – OpenVPN
Privacy	– Audited no-logs policy – No breaches – TrustedServer technology
Features	– Kill switch – Automatic obfuscation – Split tunneling – Threat Manager – Ad blocker – Parental controls
Streaming	– Prime Video – Max – Peacock TV – BBC iPlayer – Disney+ – DAZN – Paramount+ – Netflix – Hulu
Server Network	– 207 server locations in 108 countries
Plans and Pricing	– $3.09/month for 28 months
OS Support	– Windows – macOS – Linux – iOS – Android – Apple TV – Gaming consoles – Browsers – Android TV – ExpressVPN Aircove – Unlimited simultaneous connections
Customer Support	– Live Chat – VPN Tutorials – Email – FAQs

ExpressVPN Security

ExpressVPN’s security setup focuses on keeping your data protected at every step. Let’s look at the specific security features it uses to achieve security.

Encryption

ExpressVPN uses AES 256 encryption, which scrambles your data into blocks that can only be read with a matching key. Only your device and the VPN server share this key during the session. 

Therefore, anyone who intercepts your traffic can’t decode it because the key isn’t exposed.

You also get ChaCha20 through Lightway protocols on supported devices. ChaCha20 creates a fresh key for every session and processes data in streams rather than blocks. 

This keeps your connection steady on phones and low-power devices while securing your traffic during sudden network shifts.

I connected to a U.S. server and ran that encrypted traffic through the Wireshark app to test ExpressVPN’s encryption. You can see from the screenshot below that it’s just a series of random numbers and symbols.

That’s proof that my traffic was fully encrypted. Exposed traffic usually shows the name of your internet service provider, IP address, and even the device name. So ExpressVPN passed this test.

Security Protocols

ExpressVPN uses four VPN protocols. They include Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP. 

Lightway is built for quick connection shifts and smooth performance and is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers. 

OpenVPN is suitable for regular use and is supported on almost every platform ExpressVPN covers.

IKEv2 is best for phones that switch between WiFi and mobile data and is available on iOS and select desktops. 

L2TP is offered only for special cases where older systems require it and isn’t recommended for daily use.

Network Lock Kill Switch

The kill switch, called Network Lock, stops all traffic if the VPN connection breaks. This prevents your real IP or unencrypted data from leaking during drops, which is important when you’re on unsecured public networks or unstable connections.

Network Lock is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, and routers. Android and iOS use built-in system blocks that work the same way and cut traffic the moment the VPN stops.

Private DNS

ExpressVPN runs its own private DNS on every server. This ensures all your DNS lookups don’t pass through outside providers that can be intercepted. 

DNS requests reveal the sites you visit, so keeping them inside the encrypted tunnel stops exposure to your provider or public resolvers.

This setup also protects you from forged DNS replies that can push you to unsafe sites. Since the DNS runs on the same server that handles your VPN connection, you reduce leaks and keep all lookup data contained within the encrypted path.

Therefore, even if someone hacked ExpressVPN’s servers (which is near impossible), they would only find the VPN server details, not yours.

ExpressVPN Privacy

Before we get into the privacy measures, it helps to clarify one thing. VPN Security refers to keeping your connection encrypted and safe from interception by external parties. 

VPN Privacy refers to how well a service avoids recording or exposing what you do while using that secure connection. Privacy stops even the VPN itself from knowing what you’re up to online.

Jurisdiction

The company behind ExpressVPN is legally based in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). That jurisdiction does not impose mandatory data-retention laws. Furthermore, BVI is not part of international surveillance alliances.

So what does this mean for your privacy?

Since ExpressVPN operates under BVI law, requests from foreign governments or courts to hand over user data usually face higher legal barriers. This makes ExpressVPN one of the best privacy VPNs.

Furthermore, this location gives you a stronger layer of protection for your privacy rights. This is better than providers based in countries with stricter data laws or intelligence-sharing agreements.

RAM-Only Servers (TrustedServer)

ExpressVPN uses a network of servers built on the TrustedServer technology. These servers run only on RAM, meaning they don’t use hard drives. Any data handled by the server vanishes whenever the server reboots. No data is ever stored long-term.

RAM-only servers are better than traditional VPN servers, which usually store logs or temporary data on physical hard drives. If a traditional server gets seized or hacked, data could be recovered later. 

On the other hand, TrustedServer wipes memory on reboot and uses a read-only operating image each time. There’s no persistent data that could expose your activity or identity.

Who Owns ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN began operating independently in 2009 and established itself as a top VPN provider. Over time, it built a reputation for security and privacy. In 2021, it was acquired by Kape Technologies.

Despite that acquisition, the core operations of ExpressVPN remain under the BVI-based entity that enforces its no-logs policy and privacy protections. The new ownership has not materially changed how ExpressVPN handles user data.

Independent Audits

The only way to know if a VPN upholds its no-logs policy is through independent audits.

ExpressVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy. The service does not record browsing history, traffic data, DNS queries, user IP addresses, or connection timestamps.

However, it does maintain minimal metadata needed for operation. That includes the date (not time) of connection, chosen server region, and data volume transferred. That information cannot tie back to your personal identity or browsing habits.

Below are key privacy-related audits and their findings:

• PwC (2019): Verified that ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer network is diskless and that no connection or activity logs are stored.

• KPMG (2023): Completed a full assessment of the architecture and privacy policy. Found full compliance, with no issues regarding logging or data retention.

• Cure53 (2018): Audited ExpressVPN’s browser extensions and core code. Verified privacy standards and no storage of sensitive user data on extensions.

These audits reinforce that ExpressVPN physically and legally cannot store your browsing activity or personal data.

ExpressVPN Features

ExpressVPN adds several features that strengthen your privacy beyond standard encryption. These tools work in the background to keep you safer without extra steps on your side.

Automatic Obfuscation

Obfuscation disguises VPN traffic so it looks like regular internet traffic. This helps you stay connected on networks and in countries that try to block VPN use. So you can even use ExpressVPN to bypass the Great Firewall of China.

ExpressVPN applies this obfuscation automatically on all protocols and doesn’t require setup from you. This is more efficient compared to other VPNs, which limit obfuscation to OpenVPN and require manual activation. 

Instead, ExpressVPN builds it into the connection process so it activates on its own the moment it detects VPN restrictions.

Split Tunneling

This feature lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which ones use your direct internet connection. This improves performance because only selected traffic is routed through the encrypted tunnel. 

It also adds protection for sensitive tasks while keeping less private activities on your normal connection. 

Split tunneling is pretty useful when you want a banking app protected by the VPN while letting local devices like printers work outside the tunnel. 

ExpressVPN offers split tunneling on Windows, Android, macOS (for older versions), and routers.

Advanced Protection

ExpressVPN comes with a feature called Advanced Protection, which combines several levels of security.

There’s Threat Manager, which blocks connections to trackers and known harmful sites by checking app and DNS requests against a constantly updated block list. This reduces the amount of data companies can collect about you.

You also get an Ad Blocker that stops ads from loading at the DNS level. This reduces exposure to ad servers and speeds up page loads. 

Finally, you get Parental Controls to filter out adult sites by blocking categories you choose. This protects your children from accessing unsuitable content. Advanced Protection is available on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and routers.

Password Manager

ExpressVPN includes its own password manager that stores logins in encrypted form and syncs them across your devices. It can generate strong passwords and auto-fill them inside your browser.

It’s available through browser extensions and the main ExpressVPN apps on Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux.

ExpressVPN Server Network.

ExpressVPN runs one of the wider server networks available in commercial VPNs, offering servers in 108 countries around the world with more than 3,000 individual servers for users to connect through.

Here’s a breakdown of its server distribution

Geographic Region	Countries	Locations
North America	15	79
Europe	48	67
Asia	25	32
South America	9	10
Africa	6	6
Middle East	3	3
Oceania	2	10
Total	108	207

Most of ExpressVPN’s server locations are concentrated in North America and Europe, followed by Asia and South America. This makes it ideal for unblocking restricted content from these regions.

However, the server list is a little thin in Africa, the Middle East, and Oceania, but still more than most of the other VPN services.

This global spread matters for both performance and privacy. Having more options lets you avoid crowded locations. This keeps speeds higher and helps you maintain a secure connection even during peak times. 

ExpressVPN also uses a mix of physical and virtual servers in places where physical infrastructure is limited. Plus, most of this traffic runs through TrustedServer RAM-only servers that wipe data on reboot. 

ExpressVPN Speed & Performance

ExpressVPN is widely known for fast speeds and reliable performance. Across multiple independent tests, ExpressVPN retains a high percentage of your original internet speeds.  

Nearby server connections often above 90% percent of your baseline. This level of performance supports high-bandwidth tasks like streaming in high definition, large file downloads, and smooth video calls. 

A big reason for these speeds is the Lightway protocol that ExpressVPN developed. Lightway’s lightweight code and efficient design reduce overhead and connect faster than many older protocols.

Furthermore, the Lightway Turbo further processes packets in parallel to accelerate throughput on supported systems.

ExpressVPN also uses a global fleet of servers with high capacity and frequent upgrades to maintain low congestion. 

Lower latency and quick response times help deliver consistent performance. This makes it one of the best VPNs for gaming.

If you want to squeeze more speed out of ExpressVPN, pick a server that’s geographically close to you rather than one on the other side of the world.

Closer servers mean shorter physical distance for your traffic, which cuts down on round-trip time. 

You can also use a wired ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi to reduce interference and try different protocols like Lightway UDP for better throughput. 

Finally, closing background apps and checking for the latest app updates can prevent local bottlenecks that make a VPN appear slower than it is.

ExpressVPN Streaming

ExpressVPN performs strongly when it comes to streaming and unblocking geo-restricted content. Here’s a breakdown of the streaming platforms you can unblock with ExpressVPN

Streaming Service	Unblocks?
Disney+	✅
Hulu	✅
Netflix	✅
Amazon Prime Video	✅
HBO Max	✅
Paramount+	✅
Peacock TV	✅
BBC iPlayer	✅
ESPN+	✅

When you connect to a server in the region of the service you want to watch, ExpressVPN masks your location.

This lets the platform think you are local, so you can access shows and movies that would otherwise be blocked in your country.

For example, you can access U.S.-exclusive shows like NCIS from anywhere in the world by simply connecting to a U.S. server. 

ExpressVPN also supports Smart DNS with its MediaStreamer feature, which helps unblock streaming on devices that don’t support VPN apps natively. You need this for some smart TVs like Samsung and game consoles.

ExpressVPN OS Support and Usability

ExpressVPN offers apps or configuration support for a wide range of devices. These include:

• Windows: XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, 11 
• macOS: From macOS High Sierra onwards
• Linux: Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Raspberry Pi OS, Linux Mint, Arch
• Android: Nougat (Android 7) and onwards
• iOS: iPhone 6s and onwards
• Gaming consoles: PS4, PS5, Xbox One
• Android TV
• Apple TV (tvOS)
• Amazon Fire
• Roku (manual setup)
• Chromebook
• Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge
• Routers: Asus, Linksys, Netgear routers
• ExpressVPN Aircove

This broad support lets you protect almost anything that connects to the internet in your home or on the go.

Simultaneous Connections and Performance

ExpressVPN lets you connect 8 devices at the same time on one subscription. A router with ExpressVPN installed counts as just one connection regardless of how many gadgets it protects.

This matters because you can protect phones, computers, tablets, streaming boxes, and more without hitting a cap quickly.

More simultaneous connections means you don’t have to decide which devices to leave unprotected at any given moment.

Usability

ExpressVPN’s apps are consistent across platforms, with a simple connect button and a location list that make selecting a server straightforward.

The interface keeps the core functions easy to find while still offering advanced options for protocols, split tunneling, and other features. 

Regular updates to apps (like recent improvements to Apple devices) help keep the experience smooth and responsive.

ExpressVPN Customer Support

ExpressVPN offers a range of support channels so you can get help when you need it. 

Live Chat

ExpressVPN provides 24/7 live chat support accessible directly from its support page or the ExpressVPN website. You’ll find a “Chat with us” box in the corner of the screen that connects you with a live agent in real time.

There’s a sign-in option for subscribers and a guest option for others.

The Live Chat option is available on all devices that can access the support site or the in-app support section. 

Email Support

You can contact ExpressVPN by email if your issue requires more detailed help. This could be about billing, complex troubleshooting, or account specifics. 

However, email support usually takes longer than live chat but gives you a written trail and space to attach logs or screenshots.

FAQ Section

ExpressVPN’s support area includes a Frequently Asked Questions section. It addresses common topics like installation steps, subscription issues, and connection errors. These concise Q&A entries help you find quick answers without contacting an agent.

VPN Tutorials

ExpressVPN also provides step-by-step tutorials in the support center. These cover how to set up the app on any supported device or change protocols. Video and text formats help you follow the instructions at your own pace.

ExpressVPN Pricing

ExpressVPN does not offer a free version of its VPN. You have to choose a paid plan to use the service. Every plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee for first-time subscribers. 

That means you can ask for a refund within the first 30 days if you decide it’s not right for you.

You can then choose from three price plans:

• 1 Month Plan – $12.99 per month
• 12 Month Plan – $4.99 per month
• 28 Month Plan – 3.49 per month

Every plan includes the same core VPN service. The longer plans cost more upfront but reduce the monthly cost compared with paying monthly.

ExpressVPN Alternatives

If ExpressVPN doesn’t meet your needs, here are some good alternatives you can try out.

1. NordVPN

This is a solid choice if you want strong privacy tools and fast speeds. It uses a mix of reliable protocols and offers features like Double VPN and Threat Protection, which help filter trackers and unsafe sites. 

The network is wide and performs well for streaming and general browsing, so you get stable connections without much setup. More in our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

This is one of the most affordable VPN services. It works well if you want one subscription for many devices. Its standout feature is the unlimited device support, which lets you cover your entire household. 

It also includes CleanWeb for blocking ads and has good speed across most regions. The interface is simple, and the server’s coverage covers enough locations. More in our Surfshark review.

3. CyberGhost

This alternative gives you a large server network with dedicated options for streaming and torrenting. These specialized servers are updated often, so unblocking popular platforms feels smooth. 

The app layout is straightforward, and the performance is steady for long sessions. It also provides detailed transparency reports, which can help you trust how your data is handled.

Is ExpressVPN Worth It?

Yes, ExpressVPN is still a worthy service to subscribe to. It delivers strong security, stable performance, and dependable streaming support. It continues to hold its place through steady upgrades, a wide server list, and privacy systems that work without extra effort from you. 

The Lightway protocol, in particular, helps maintain quick speeds, and the RAM-only server network keeps your data from being stored. Pricing is straightforward with three paid plans and a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

So if you have been on the fence about making that choice, you now have the information you needed to decide.

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