ExpressVPN Review 2024, Features, Pricing, Is It Good + Worth the Price?

ExpressVPN Review: Nestled in the serene confines of the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN has been a stalwart in the realm of virtual private networks (VPNs) since its inception in 2009. Widely regarded as a paragon of VPN excellence, this service has earned its stripes as one of the premier choices for discerning users across the globe. Its versatility knows no bounds, making it an indispensable tool for a myriad of online pursuits.

But what truly sets ExpressVPN apart, drawing every visitor’s gaze the moment they step onto its website, is its bold assertion of being “the fastest VPN on Earth.” In a world brimming with VPN providers making similar proclamations, we decided to embark on an exhaustive exploration in our comprehensive ExpressVPN review, aimed at discerning whether this claim holds true in the fiercely competitive arena of virtual private networks.

ExpressVPN Review

In today’s digital age, safeguarding your online privacy and security has never been more crucial. As the virtual world continues to expand, so do the threats that lurk in the shadows. It’s in this context that ExpressVPN emerges as a formidable ally in the battle for online protection and freedom. With its reputation for lightning-fast speeds, robust encryption, and a global network of servers, ExpressVPN has become a leading choice for individuals seeking to maintain their privacy, access geo-restricted content, and browse the internet with peace of mind. In this comprehensive ExpressVPN review, we delve into the key features, performance, pricing, and overall user experience to help you make an informed decision about whether this VPN service is the right fit for your digital needs.

let’s delve into the comprehensive ExpressVPN review, where we leave no stone unturned, analyzing its servers, pricing, speed, supported platforms, and more. To kick things off, we’ll begin by dissecting its strengths and weaknesses.

Try Out :

About ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN, established in 2009, is registered in the British Virgin Islands, a jurisdiction distinct from the UK, devoid of compulsory data retention laws, and beyond the reach of the 14-Eyes intelligence alliance.

In 2021, Kape Technologies acquired ExpressVPN. Kape, previously known as Crossrider, owns various cybersecurity ventures, including major rivals Private Internet Access and CyberGhost. Crossrider’s history was marked by involvement in adware distribution.

As of January 2024, ExpressVPN boasts four million active subscribers, surpassing VyprVPN’s user base by twice but still trailing behind NordVPN, which currently enjoys approximately 14 million users.

ExpressVPN has pioneered several technologies that have become industry standards. Notable innovations include TrustedServer, utilizing RAM-only servers; Lightway, a swifter protocol; and MediaStreamer, a standalone smart DNS proxy. Additionally, ExpressVPN is a founding member of the VPN Trust Initiative, an industry consortium of leading VPN providers dedicated to establishing quality standards and educating the public about the security advantages of VPNs.

Check Also : Best FREE Movie Sites List

ExpressVPN Overview

ExpressVPN pros and cons

Here’s a concise overview of my experiences with ExpressVPN, highlighting both its strengths and areas where it could improve:

Pros:

1. Exceptionally fast speeds across all server locations.
2. Advanced security measures implemented in both the applications and on the servers.
3. Effective at unblocking most international streaming platforms, including US Netflix.
4. Proven reliability in overcoming online restrictions in regions like China and the UAE.
5. Strict adherence to a no-logs policy, ensuring your privacy.
6. Access to round-the-clock live chat support for immediate assistance.

Cons:

1. Slightly higher pricing compared to some of its competitors.
2. Streaming servers lack clear labeling, which can be a minor inconvenience for users.

ExpressVPN Servers

ExpressVPN truly stands out in the world of VPNs with its remarkable server network. Boasting over 3,000 servers distributed across an impressive 94 countries and spanning 160+ locations worldwide, it’s no exaggeration to say that ExpressVPN belongs to an exclusive club of VPN providers in this regard.

What makes ExpressVPN’s server network particularly outstanding is its strategic placement in major global locations. This meticulous approach ensures that there’s always an ExpressVPN server in close proximity to you, no matter where you are. This strategic placement not only enhances the already brisk connection speeds but also effectively prevents server congestion, reducing the occurrence of frustrating connection drops to a minimum.

Additionally, ExpressVPN offers a unique solution for users in countries with strict online censorship practices, such as China and the UAE. These nations employ deep packet inspection to identify and block VPN users. ExpressVPN addresses this challenge by providing Stealth servers that cloak the fact that you’re using a VPN, a crucial feature in regions where VPN usage is now officially banned.

When it comes to privacy and security, ExpressVPN leaves no room for compromise. Our thorough testing revealed no DNS, IPv4, or WebRTC leaks, affirming its unwavering commitment to safeguarding your online privacy and identity. With ExpressVPN, you can browse the internet with peace of mind, knowing that your data remains secure and your identity protected at all times. In an age where online privacy is paramount, ExpressVPN truly shines as a guardian of your digital life.

What devices work with ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN offers compatibility with a wide range of devices, making it one of the most versatile VPN providers available:

• Windows
• MacOS, including M1 and M2
• iOS
• Android
• Android TV and Nvidia Shield
• Linux
• Amazon Fire TV
• Certain Asus, Linksys, and Netgear Wi-Fi routers

ExpressVPN allows users to connect up to five devices simultaneously, which is in line with the industry standard, although some providers offer higher limits or unlimited simultaneous connections.

Setting up and using ExpressVPN’s apps is a straightforward process. Their user-friendly design maintains consistency across various platforms. If you’re familiar with one platform, using another should feel intuitive (note that the Network Lock feature is not available on mobile devices).

During the initial installation of ExpressVPN, you’ll need to verify your device using a code displayed on your account dashboard on the ExpressVPN website. While this adds a bit of extra setup effort for new devices, it eliminates the need to repeatedly enter your username and password for subsequent logins.

How to Fix FireStick Remote?

Once the setup is complete, you gain access to thousands of server locations spanning 94 countries, providing a wealth of options for your VPN needs.

ExpressVPN for Firestick

In the era of digital entertainment, Amazon’s Firestick has become a household favorite for streaming enthusiasts. However, to truly unleash its potential, users must consider the integration of a reliable VPN service. Enter ExpressVPN, a powerhouse in the realm of online security and privacy.

ExpressVPN is the perfect companion for your Firestick, offering a multitude of benefits. Firstly, it enhances your online privacy by masking your IP address, shielding you from potential hackers and intrusive advertisers. This is essential for ensuring your streaming habits remain private.

Moreover, ExpressVPN bypasses geo-restrictions with ease. This means you can access a broader range of content from different regions, including exclusive movies and TV shows. Whether you’re a Netflix aficionado or craving international content, ExpressVPN grants you unrestricted access.

How to Set Up FireStick?

ExpressVPN also excels in providing blazing-fast speeds, vital for uninterrupted 4K streaming. Its vast server network ensures you enjoy buffer-free streaming sessions.

Additionally, ExpressVPN is user-friendly, making it easy for even the most tech-challenged individuals to set up on their Firestick. With just a few clicks, you’ll be surfing the web securely and accessing global content libraries.

ExpressVPN for Netflix

Indeed, Netflix’s stringent efforts to enforce geo-restrictions have made accessing the coveted Netflix USA library a challenging task. However, where many VPNs falter, ExpressVPN shines as a reliable solution for unlocking this treasure trove of content.

ExpressVPN’s approach to unblocking Netflix USA is nothing short of ingenious. They offer a selection of servers strategically located within the United States, but the brilliance lies in their discretion. ExpressVPN doesn’t openly disclose which specific servers are optimized for Netflix USA access, a deliberate measure to thwart Netflix’s efforts to block them.

To access Netflix USA with ExpressVPN, you have a few options. Firstly, you can reach out to their attentive customer support, who can promptly guide you to the currently operational servers optimized for Netflix USA. Alternatively, ExpressVPN provides a SmartDNS service, a feature tailored for precisely this purpose. With SmartDNS, you can bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions and enjoy the full spectrum of content available in the United States.

For those seeking convenience, ExpressVPN also maintains a dedicated Netflix page on their website, which often contains updated information on accessing Netflix USA. This combination of discretion, customer support, SmartDNS, and a dedicated information resource showcases ExpressVPN’s commitment to delivering a seamless Netflix USA experience, even in the face of stringent geo-blocking measures.

Try : ExpressVPN For Firestick

ExpressVPN for Torrents

In today’s digital age, torrent websites have become an integral part of our online experience. They offer a treasure trove of files and data ranging from movies and TV shows to games, software, music, and much more. Downloading torrents is a relatively simple process through a torrent client, but it comes with a significant caveat: without the protection of a Virtual Private Network (VPN), your torrenting activities are exposed for anyone to see.

Picture this: as you engage in torrenting, your actions are laid bare for potential threats. Malicious users lurking within the torrenting community can easily spy on your activities, while even innocent individuals sharing the same public network might inadvertently catch a glimpse of what you’re up to. What’s more, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) has the capability and, unfortunately, the inclination to throttle your internet speed when it detects torrenting activities, leading to frustratingly slow downloads.

Best Torrent Sites popular in the world

To safeguard your online privacy and enjoy seamless torrenting, the solution lies in ExpressVPN. With this powerful tool, your torrenting endeavors are shrouded in anonymity, shielded from prying eyes and potential threats. ExpressVPN’s lightning-fast servers ensure that your download speeds remain unaffected, providing a blazingly quick and secure torrenting experience.

While it’s worth noting that not all of ExpressVPN’s servers support Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file sharing, fret not! Their responsive customer support is always ready to assist you in finding the ideal server for your torrenting needs. So, don’t compromise your online privacy and speed—embrace ExpressVPN and torrent with confidence!

ExpressVPN for Kodi

Kodi is undeniably a powerful media streaming platform, offering access to a vast array of movies and TV shows. However, it’s important to exercise caution when using some of the free streaming links provided by Kodi. The provenance of these links is often uncertain, and the operators behind them may not have the most benign intentions, potentially compromising your online privacy.

To ensure a safe and private streaming experience on Kodi, it’s highly advisable to complement it with ExpressVPN. Fortunately, setting up ExpressVPN on Kodi is a straightforward process, and you can effortlessly configure it by following the step-by-step setup guide available on their official website.

try : ExpressVPN For Kodi

By doing so, you add an extra layer of security and privacy to your Kodi streaming sessions. ExpressVPN’s robust encryption and no-logs policy will help shield your online activities from prying eyes and potential threats, allowing you to enjoy your favorite content on Kodi with peace of mind.

Best VPN for Kodi 2024

In an age where online privacy is paramount, using ExpressVPN alongside Kodi is a prudent choice, ensuring that you can savor your entertainment without compromising your personal data or digital safety.

ExpressVPN Pricing

When it comes to affordability in the realm of VPN services, ExpressVPN may not be the first choice for those on a tight budget. With its standard monthly package priced at $12.95, it’s clear that this premium service caters more to users who prioritize top-notch security and performance over cost-effectiveness. However, there’s a silver lining for budget-conscious individuals with the annual subscription, which offers a more reasonable rate at $6.67 per month due to the extended commitment. Additionally, keep an eye out for periodic discounts, although ExpressVPN still tends to lean on the pricier side of the VPN spectrum.

One standout feature that sets ExpressVPN apart is its confidence in its service. Unlike many VPN providers that offer a mere 7-day money-back guarantee, ExpressVPN goes the extra mile by providing a generous 30-day no-questions-asked money-back guarantee. This extended trial period allows users ample time to thoroughly evaluate the service and ensure it meets their expectations.

For desktop users, it’s worth noting that there isn’t a free trial option available. However, iOS users can take advantage of a 7-day free trial, while Android users are granted a one-day free trial. Although a single day may feel limiting for a comprehensive assessment, this limitation is imposed to comply with Google Play store regulations, leaving little room for adjustment.

When it comes to payment methods, ExpressVPN offers a range of options to cater to diverse preferences. You can make payments using credit cards, utilize the convenience of PayPal, opt for the privacy of Bitcoin, or explore various third-party payment merchants, giving you the flexibility to choose the method that suits you best.

ExpressVPN Speed

It’s a well-known fact that VPNs can introduce a slight reduction in your browsing speed due to the encryption overhead they add to your internet connection. However, what truly distinguishes the top-tier VPNs from the rest of the pack is the extent of this speed reduction. The finest VPN services take measures to ensure that this reduction is kept to an absolute minimum, to the point where it becomes virtually imperceptible.

Enter ExpressVPN, recognized as one of the leading VPN providers in the industry. When put to the test, ExpressVPN consistently demonstrates its commitment to speed. Regardless of the time of day or the specific server you connect to, you’ll be hard-pressed to notice any significant drop in your connection speed. ExpressVPN’s performance during speed tests conducted across various servers paints a highly favorable picture, showcasing its ability to maintain optimal speeds without compromise. In essence, it’s the gold standard when it comes to offering both security and seamless online experiences.

ExpressVPN stands out as a frontrunner in the VPN arena, offering some of the swiftest download speeds available among all VPN providers. Whether you’re streaming high-definition videos in 1080p resolution or engaging in intense online multiplayer gaming sessions, ExpressVPN ensures that your online activities proceed seamlessly without a hitch.

In the realm of file downloads, be it torrents or regular files, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover that your connection speeds remain remarkably consistent, akin to downloading files without the VPN. In certain instances, you might even experience enhanced speeds, contingent upon the server you select. This not only facilitates swift downloads but also underscores ExpressVPN’s dedication to optimizing your online experience.

However, it’s essential to note that, like most VPN services, ExpressVPN may occasionally encounter the minor inconvenience of a connection drop, occurring sporadically every other day or so. While this can be a slight drawback, it’s a relatively minor trade-off when weighed against the myriad benefits and blazing-fast speeds that ExpressVPN brings to the table.

Protocols and Encryption

When it comes to VPN services, two paramount concerns are invariably on the minds of users: privacy and encryption. ExpressVPN goes above and beyond in addressing these concerns by offering an array of options directly within its user-friendly client.

ExpressVPN’s versatility shines through as it provides you with a choice of VPN protocols, including PPTP, L2TP, OpenVPN, and SSTP. This flexibility empowers you to select the protocol that best aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

In the realm of encryption, ExpressVPN adheres to the contemporary gold standard: AES 256-bit encryption. This robust encryption protocol ensures that your data remains impervious to prying eyes, effectively safeguarding your online activities from any unwanted intrusion. Complementing this formidable encryption is an impressive SHA-512 authentication mechanism, which further fortifies your online security.

With ExpressVPN, you can trust that your online presence remains your own private domain. It not only fends off any nosy parties seeking to snoop on your digital trail but also provides you with the peace of mind to share sensitive information over the web without fear of interception through a man-in-the-middle attack. In a world where digital privacy is paramount, ExpressVPN is your steadfast guardian, keeping your online affairs confidential and secure.

Clients and compatibility

ExpressVPN truly excels in providing a wide range of user-friendly options for various platforms, ensuring that you can enjoy its protective benefits across all your devices.

For desktop users, dedicated clients are available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, delivering a seamless and intuitive experience. If you’re on the go, ExpressVPN has you covered with user-friendly apps for Android, iOS, and even Amazon Fire TV Stick, making it effortless to protect your mobile and streaming devices.

But ExpressVPN’s versatility doesn’t stop there. The service offers comprehensive setup guides on its website, enabling you to configure ExpressVPN on a multitude of devices, including Smart TVs, Roku, gaming consoles, Chromebooks, and even routers. For those seeking complete network-wide protection, ExpressVPN offers the option to purchase pre-configured routers, allowing you to extend the shield of ExpressVPN to your entire home network. The beauty of this setup is that your router is counted as just one device, freeing you to connect as many devices as you desire without any additional device limitations.

The VPN clients themselves are a testament to ExpressVPN’s commitment to user satisfaction. They are not only intuitive but also feature-rich. While, for security reasons, you can’t tweak the encryption type within the VPN client, you have the flexibility to freely switch between VPN protocols and servers. The default setting, OpenVPN over UDP, is a solid choice for most users. ExpressVPN’s client is intelligent, automatically selecting the best server based on your location and usage. However, if you have a particular server preference, you have the option to override the automatic selection.

For added convenience, when you set up ExpressVPN for the first time on any device, you’ll need to enter an activation code. This seamless activation process ensures that you can effortlessly connect to the VPN the moment you launch the client, sparing you the hassle of re-entering credentials each time. ExpressVPN’s dedication to user-friendliness shines through in every aspect of its service.

ExpressVPN’s user interface is not only visually appealing but also highly functional, providing access to essential features like the ‘Network Lock,’ which functions much like an automatic kill switch. The Network Lock feature is a critical component of ExpressVPN’s security arsenal, shielding you from potential DNS and IP leaks and ensuring your safety even in the event of a connection drop. This level of protection proves especially valuable when engaging in activities such as downloading torrents, where privacy and security are paramount.

Indeed, downloading torrents without the protective cloak of a VPN is ill-advised, as it leaves your torrent activity exposed to prying eyes, potentially resulting in legal repercussions and ISP-induced bandwidth throttling. With ExpressVPN’s support for P2P traffic, you can confidently use ExpressVPN for torrent downloads, knowing that Network Lock has your back.

For Mac users, the client offers an additional feature called Split Tunnelling, which empowers you to selectively choose which applications’ traffic should pass through the VPN servers. It’s a powerful tool for advanced users but should be used with caution, as misconfiguration could compromise your security.

ExpressVPN’s device allowance has evolved over time. Initially limited to one device of each type, the service has since been updated to allow users to connect up to five devices concurrently. This flexibility enables you to configure ExpressVPN on two laptops and one phone, or any combination that suits your needs. However, it’s important to note that when you wish to connect a sixth device, you must manually disconnect one of the existing five connections. While this may be a minor inconvenience, it’s an area where some users might expect ExpressVPN to provide a smoother experience. Nonetheless, the benefits of ExpressVPN’s robust security and user-friendly interface make it a compelling choice for protecting your online activities.

ExpressVPN Logs Policy

In the realm of online privacy, not all VPNs are created equal. A VPN that shields you from prying eyes while surreptitiously documenting your every online move can be more perilous and detrimental than braving the digital wilderness without any protection at all. This is precisely why the adoption of a VPN boasting a strict no-logs policy is an indispensable choice.

Enter ExpressVPN, a stellar example that firmly falls within this coveted category. What sets ExpressVPN apart is its unwavering commitment to user privacy. Operating from the secure jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands, it remains beyond the grasp of legal pressures exerted by entities like the NSA or GCHQ, safeguarding your online activities from unwarranted scrutiny.

The essence of a no-logs policy cannot be overstated, but the jurisdiction a VPN operates within is equally pivotal. ExpressVPN masterfully combines both these elements, promising users a haven of privacy where their digital footprints are neither recorded nor subject to any data retention laws. So, when considering a VPN service, remember that a no-logs policy and a jurisdiction devoid of data retention laws should be paramount on your checklist. ExpressVPN checks these boxes with finesse, making it a top choice for the discerning user seeking ironclad online privacy.

ExpressVPN is meticulous when it comes to user data privacy. The only data it retains are connection timestamps, the server you’ve connected to, and the bandwidth utilized during your session. Importantly, your personal IP address remains untouched and is never logged or shared with any third parties.

For those who seek an extra layer of anonymity, there are clever workarounds available. By subscribing to ExpressVPN through their newly established .onion extension or routing your connection through the Tor proxy network, or even opting for payment through Bitcoin, you can further obscure your online identity. In doing so, ExpressVPN is left with no means to identify you, bolstering your digital privacy and security.

This multifaceted approach exemplifies ExpressVPN’s commitment to ensuring that your online activities remain shielded from prying eyes while offering you the flexibility to tailor your level of anonymity to your precise preferences.

Customer support in ExpressVpn

ExpressVPN goes above and beyond in catering to its users’ needs with a stellar 24/7 customer support service. Whether you prefer live chat, email, or the ticket system, you’ll find that all three avenues function seamlessly.

When engaging with their live chat support, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how quickly a knowledgeable support executive responds. The efficiency is truly remarkable, as you won’t have to wait even a minute for assistance. Not only are the responses prompt, but they also exude warmth and professionalism, providing you with not just courteous interactions but also informative and genuinely helpful solutions.

Similar levels of excellent customer support can be anticipated when utilizing their email and ticket systems. ExpressVPN ensures that users receive top-notch assistance regardless of the communication channel they choose.

Furthermore, for those looking for quick answers to common queries, ExpressVPN’s knowledge base is a valuable resource, effectively addressing most general concerns.

In sum, ExpressVPN sets an industry standard for customer support excellence, making it one of the best options available in this regard. Your peace of mind and user experience are their top priorities.

More Features in ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN goes the extra mile to provide specialized features that cater to specific needs and challenges faced by its users.

Stealth Servers

In an era where online censorship is on the rise, ExpressVPN has introduced dedicated stealth servers, particularly to assist users in China. With stringent censorship laws and increasing government crackdowns on VPN usage, these servers offer a lifeline for individuals seeking online freedom. The Chinese government employs techniques like deep packet inspection to detect VPN traffic and identify users, but ExpressVPN’s dedicated servers in Hong Kong provide a solution. While the precise inner workings of these servers remain undisclosed, their effectiveness is undeniable. They enable users to evade government censorship whether they reside in or are traveling to mainland China, safeguarding their online privacy and freedom.

Smart DNS

ExpressVPN also offers a SmartDNS service, an alternative method for unblocking geo-restricted content, particularly geared toward streaming services. SmartDNS operates by altering your DNS settings and directing DNS requests for geo-restricted services through dedicated servers. This allows you to bypass geographical restrictions. Unlike VPNs, SmartDNS does not involve encryption, resulting in significantly faster connection speeds. However, it’s crucial to note that this speed advantage comes at the cost of the additional security and privacy protection provided by VPNs. ExpressVPN’s SmartDNS is user-friendly and effective, making it effortless to unblock popular streaming platforms like Netflix USA and BBC iPlayer.

Browser Extensions

ExpressVPN extends its reach with browser extensions designed for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox users. Unlike some other VPN browser extensions, ExpressVPN’s offering requires the VPN client to be installed on your system for it to function. While the browser extension doesn’t introduce new features, it enhances the overall user experience by granting more control over the VPN client on your device. It’s a convenient tool for users seeking seamless integration between their web browsers and ExpressVPN’s services.

ExpressVPN Alternatives

While ExpressVPN is a favored choice for many, it’s important to consider alternatives that may better suit your needs, whether you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or require additional simultaneous connections.

NordVPN is a compelling alternative, allowing up to six simultaneous internet connections and often comes at a significantly lower price point, particularly with ongoing discounts. Known for its impressive speed, NordVPN offers robust security features and excels at unblocking streaming platforms, torrenting, and maintaining access from within China. For an in-depth comparison of ExpressVPN and NordVPN, check out our dedicated NordVPN vs ExpressVPN article.

CyberGhost is another budget-friendly VPN provider that permits up to seven simultaneous device connections. Although it may not work reliably in China and lacks extensive support for less mainstream operating systems, it impresses with its speed, security, and seamless access to region-locked content.

If you’re interested in exploring a wider array of VPN options, our comprehensive Best VPNs article provides further insights into top VPN services beyond ExpressVPN.

Conclusion

If you’re in search of a VPN service that fulfills all your requirements, ExpressVPN stands out as the ultimate choice. It boasts an extensive network of over 3000 servers spanning 160 cities across 94 countries worldwide. These servers offer exceptional connection speeds that come close to being the fastest VPN globally, although we can’t definitively confirm its claim as the fastest.

When it comes to privacy and security, ExpressVPN excels with its default use of OpenVPN over UDP, robust encryption, and authentication protocols. With the ability to connect up to 8 devices simultaneously, a reliable Smart DNS service for bypassing geo-restrictions, support for P2P file sharing, and advanced features like Network Lock and Stealth Servers, it’s no wonder that ExpressVPN consistently ranks among the top VPN providers.

The only drawback might be its relatively higher cost. However, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, along with a 7-day free trial exclusively for iOS users, giving you ample time to fully test the service before committing.

ExpressVPN Reviews FAQ