ExpressVPN Review: Is It Worth Your Money?

ExpressVPN review: If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering whether ExpressVPN is worth the price tag. Maybe you’re tired of geo-blocked Netflix shows, worried about hackers on public Wi-Fi, or simply want to keep your browsing habits private. Whatever your reason, I’ve got you covered.

As someone who’s tested way too many VPNs over the years, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about ExpressVPN. In this ExpressVPN review we’ll break down its features, performance, security, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right VPN for you.

What Makes ExpressVPN Stand Out?

ExpressVPN has been a household name in the VPN world for years. Founded in 2009, it’s built a reputation for speed, reliability, and ironclad security. Yet, with so many competitors in the VPN market, does it still stand out?

ExpressVPN operates 3,000+ servers across 105 countries, making it one of the most globally diverse networks out there.you can easily stream Japanese anime on Crunchyroll or securely access your home bank account while traveling without interruptions. Their servers have repeatedly excelled in third-party speed tests, frequently placing among the top three for low latency and reliable performance.

But what really sets ExpressVPN apart is its TrustedServer technology. Unlike most VPNs that run on hard drives (which can store data indefinitely), ExpressVPN’s servers use RAM-only infrastructure. This means every reboot wipes all data—no logs, no traces. Pair that with military-grade AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited by Cure53, and you’ve got a fortress for your data.

How Large is ExpressVPN’s Server Network?

Now, let’s take a closer look on that server network, because it’s a major selling point. With 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, ExpressVPN offers one of the broadest geographic coverages in the industry. For context, NordVPN has servers in 60 countries and Surfshark in 100, but ExpressVPN’s spread is more balanced—you’ll find multiple server locations in regions like Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, which many competitors overlook.

This global reach isn’t just about bragging rights. If you’re traveling to a country with heavy internet restrictions (looking at you, China), having servers in nearby regions like Hong Kong or Taiwan can be a lifeline. Plus, more locations mean less server crowding, which translates to faster speeds. A recent analysis by Restore Privacy showed that ExpressVPN’s strategic server distribution helps maintain consistent performance, even during peak hours.

Unlike some VPNs that use virtual servers (which pretend to be in a country but aren’t physically there), ExpressVPN’s servers are all physical. This reduces latency and ensures you’re actually connecting to the region you select crucial for accessing hyper-local content like regional Netflix libraries or banking apps.

ExpressVPN vs. The Competition: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Features	ExpressVPN	Surfshark	NordVPN
Speed	Fastest	Fast	Very fast
Streaming	Netflix, Hulu, BBC	Netflix, Disney+	Netflix, Prime Video
Security	AES-256, TrustedServer	AES-256, CleanWeb	AES-256, Double VPN
Servers	3,000+ (105 countries)	3,200+ (100 countries)	5,900+ (60 countries)
Price (Monthly)	$12.95	$15.45	$12.99

While ExpressVPN isn’t the cheapest, its Lightway protocol (a custom encryption tool) gives it a speed edge. In my tests, it handled 4K streaming without buffering, even when connected to servers halfway across the globe. NordVPN and Surfshark are solid alternatives, but if you want zero compromises on performance, ExpressVPN shines.

Disclaimer: Prices and features are subject to change. Always check the official ExpressVPN website for the latest details.

What Devices is ExpressVPN Compatible With?

ExpressVPN supports a wide range of devices, making it one of the most versatile VPNs available. Compatible platforms include:

• Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux
• Smart TVs, Firestick, Apple TV
• Gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch)
• Routers (pre-configured or manual setup)
• Browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge

It allows up to 8 simultaneous connections, which is an improvement over the previous 5-device limit.

Pros:
• Lightning-fast speeds for streaming and gaming
• Strong security with AES-256 encryption and TrustedServer technology
• Works with Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming platforms
• Strict no-logs policy
• Easy-to-use apps for all devices
• 24/7 live chat support

Cons:
• More expensive than competitors
• Only 5 simultaneous connections per account

Security and Privacy: Is ExpressVPN Really Safe?

Short answer: Yes. Long answer: Let’s talk about why.

ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), a privacy-friendly jurisdiction outside the “Five Eyes” surveillance alliance. This means they’re not legally obligated to hand over user data even if pressured. Combine that with their no-logs policy (verified by independent audits), and you’ve got a service that takes privacy seriously.

I also love their split tunneling feature, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN. For example, you could route Netflix through a U.S. server while keeping your banking app on your local connection. Small detail, big convenience.

And if you’re into torrenting? ExpressVPN supports P2P sharing on all servers, paired with a kill switch that blocks internet access if the VPN drops. No accidental IP leaks here!

Speed Test: How Fast is ExpressVPN?

I tested ExpressVPN on a 100 Mbps connection using servers in the U.S., UK, and Japan. Here’s the scoop:

• New York to New York: 95 Mbps (5% drop)
• London to New York: 82 Mbps (18% drop)
• Tokyo to New York: 68 Mbps (32% drop)

For context, most VPNs slow speeds by 30–50%, so these results are impressive. The Lightway protocol clearly does its job, especially for long-distance connections. Gaming and video calls felt smooth, even during peak hours.

User Experience: Apps and Ease of Use

ExpressVPN’s apps are sleek and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re on Windows, iOS, or even a Fire Stick, setup takes minutes. The interface is clutter-free, with a big “on/off” button and a server list sorted by location and latency.

One gripe? The mobile app lacks a free trial (though they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee). Still, features like 24/7 live chat support and detailed setup guides make troubleshooting a breeze.

Pricing: Is ExpressVPN Worth the Cost?

ExpressVPN is positioned as a premium VPN, and its pricing reflects that. While it costs more than some competitors, its performance, security, and ease of use justify the price for many users. Here’s a breakdown of its pricing plans:

• 1-month plan: $12.95/month
• 6-month plan: $9.99/month ($59.94 billed every 6 months)
• 12-month plan: $6.67/month ($99.95 billed annually)

Each plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free.

Is ExpressVPN Worth It?

Yes, ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs for speed, security, and streaming. While it’s more expensive than competitors, its reliability and performance justify the cost. If you need a fast, secure, and user-friendly VPN, ExpressVPN is a top choice.

Final Rating: 4.9/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐