• ExpressVPN

  • Our Score 9.1
  • User Rating

ExpressVPN Review

Finding the perfect virtual private network or VPN can be a challenge. With global
internet usage continuing to soar, locating and tracking tools have become increasingly
common. As more and more people are looking for privacy and protection when venturing
online, companies offering VPNs are stepping up to current demand. This extensive pool
of options comprises several market leaders, which includes one of the best in the
business, ExpressVPN.

We take an in-depth look at this highly regarded VPN service
and find out exactly why ExpressVPN remains the first port of call for millions of users
worldwide.

ExpressVPN Figures
  • Over 3,000 servers, 160 locations, 94 countries
  • Five simultaneous connections
  • 24/7 live chat support
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Prices start at approx. €6.22 per month

private-vpn

ExpressVPN Plans
1 Monthapprox. €12.07/mo
6 Monthsapprox. €9.31/mo
12 Monthsapprox. €6.22/mo
Available on

  • Introducing ExpressVPN

Leading the pack for a number of years, ExpressVPN guarantees a
premium user experience. Founded in 2009 and based in the privacy-friendly British
Virgin Islands, the provider covers all the basics, from security of the highest
standard to lightning-fast connections, a wide variety of servers, ease of use, and
excellent customer service. So users can rely on a secure, simple, and hassle-free
connection. Aside from the basics, ExpressVPN continues to attract the masses with
innovative features and groundbreaking technology that takes its VPN capabilities to the
next level.

What Do ExpressVPN Offer and How Do They Compare to Other Market
Leaders?

The following questions aim to uncover the provider’s advantages
over rivals by exploring unique features, investigating the value for customers, and
exposing any potential drawbacks.

Usability: How User-Friendly and Compatible is ExpressVPN?

While pioneering advances in cybersecurity and smart online
tools certainly catch the eye, a product is nothing without usability. ExpressVPN has
worked hard to ensure its service is available to, and can be navigated by, even the
least tech-savvy customer. First off, the VPN can be accessed on any appliance, not just
phones, tablets, and laptops, but also routers, TVs, and games consoles. Devices
include:

  • Apps: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, Chromebook, Kindle Fire
  • Extensions for browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox
  • Smart TV systems: Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung Smart TV, Roku,
    Chromecast, Nvidia Shield, Android TV
  • Games consoles: PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch

So far, so good. And in addition to nailing it in the compatibility stakes, every one of
ExpressVPN’s apps can be installed quickly and with ease. Once up and running, operating
the VPN is a breeze too, which is quite an achievement for a service running on a vast
range of platforms and devices. Even with zero knowledge, customers can download the
app, select a server and start browsing, downloading, or streaming in no time. And users
at the other end of the scale have plenty of customization options, too, to tailor their
VPN experience as desired.

    Speed: Can ExpressVPN Keep Up with Competitors?

ExpressVPN lives up to its name by performing exceptionally well in the speed and
reliability department. In fact, it outshines almost every rival. This lightning-fast
connection is consistent regardless of distance, with minimal ping and lag, allowing
instant and uninterrupted access to content on the other side of the world. And that’s
just the standard OpenVPN protocol. ExpressVPN has gone one step further by developing
its very own protocol, known as Lightway. Now open-source, Lightway promises even more
speed, security, and reliability, especially when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile
networks, plus reduced bandwidth and battery usage.

Such impressive speeds and stability have made ExpressVPN a firm
favorite among gamers, who also benefit from unlimited bandwidth, protection against
DDoS attacks and ISP throttling, and access to censored games from around the world.

Security: How Far Does ExpressVPN Go to Protect Users?

As expected, ExpressVPN’s security protocols are
second to none. The following list shows a handful of measures the company has adopted
to keep user information safe:

  • 1. AES-256 (same encryption standard used by the US government)
  • 2. HMAC (hash message authentication code)
  • 3. Private and encrypted DNS on all servers
  • 4. DNS/IPv6 leak protection
  • 5. Perfect forward secrecy
  • 6. Network lock (kill switch)

Naturally, IP addresses are masked at all times, and neither
connections nor activities are logged, guaranteeing the anonymity of users when online.
Customers can protect their identity even further by paying with Bitcoin or connecting
to Tor through their VPN.

  • Streaming, Torrenting and Round-the-Clock Support

Streaming and Torrenting: Can ExpressVPN Unblock Geo-Restricted Sites?

One of the most common reasons for employing a VPN is to unlock
video content in restricted areas.
For example, when traveling abroad or simply for gaining access to streaming options in
different
countries. ExpressVPN’s breakneck speeds and vast server network lay the foundations for a
satisfying streaming experience. But can it bypass the strict restrictions set up by, say,
Netflix?
The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, ExpressVPN is considered the most reliable
VPN
for
streaming US Netflix in particular. Aside from Netflix, users can enjoy the likes of HBO
Max, BBC
iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Hulu, ESPN, and a host of other platforms at the touch of a button.

And What About Torrenting?

Torrenting works just as well as streaming. P2P
activity is completely unrestricted across the whole network, the bitrate is above
average, and DNS or IP leaks are non-existent. It’s also worth noting that, unlike some
rivals, ExpressVPN offers access to the internet in mainland China.

Customer Service: Can Users Rely on Help When Things Go Wrong?

After signing up for their service, ExpressVPN customers are
well looked after. The company strives for a premium user experience, which is reflected
in its dedicated customer support. The website, available in over 15 languages, provides
a treasure trove of tutorials and handy guides to steer users in the right direction
should issues arise. And if their query remains, a 24/7 live chat service is available,
offering instant, helpful and friendly advice.

  • Pricing: Can ExpressVPN Justify Their Higher Fees?

The current plans available for the full ExpressVPN package are
as follows:

  • One month: approx. €12.07 per month
  • Six months: approx. €9.31 per month
  • 12 months: approx. €6.22 per month

In comparison with other VPN providers, Express
sits at the higher end of the pricing scale, especially when considering using the
service for just one month. However, ExpressVPN is confident new users will recognize
they are paying for quality, with a 30-day money-back guarantee available for all
customers. Unlike many free 30-day trials, users can take advantage of the entire VPN
platform, including unlimited bandwidth and 24/7 customer support.

  • ExpressVPN Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Simple installation on practically any device and extremely easy to use
  • Top-level security on servers and apps and a no-log policy
  • Lightning-fast speeds and immensely reliable, worldwide
  • Capable of unblocking major streaming servers, such as Netflix, Prime, and BBC
    iPlayer
  • Live customer support around the clock
Cons
  • More expensive than rival VPNs
  • Limit of five simultaneous connections

Our Verdict

With high scores in every department, ExpressVPN provides the
complete package for those on the hunt for a secure, seamless, and satisfying solution for
remaining protected online. Although on the steep side price-wise, there are few VPNs out
there that can come close to ExpressVPN’s unfaltering quality. Beginners and experts alike
will enjoy the platform’s easy use, top-level security, high speeds, and smart tools, such
as split tunneling and speed and leak tests. Whether streaming videos, gaming or torrenting,
evading censorship, or unblocking geo-restricted sites, ExpressVPN makes the ideal choice
for those willing to fork out a little extra for added all-round excellence.