When it comes to choosing a reliable VPN, ExpressVPN and Proton VPN are two of the most prominent options available today. Both offer strong security features, impressive speeds, and user-friendly interfaces, but which one truly stands out?
Let's take a look at ExpressVPN and Proton VPN side-by-side in this table:
ExpressVPN | Proton VPN | |
Website | ExpressVPN.com | ProtonVPN.com |
Location | British Virgin Islands | Switzerland |
Servers | 3,000+ | 6,500+ |
Countries | 105 | 112 |
Logs | No logs (audited) | No logs (audited) |
Support | 24/7 live chat; Email; Knowledge Base | Live chat; Email; Knowledge Base |
Apps for | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, browsers, routers, and more | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, browsers, and more |
Money-back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
Price | $6.67 (with coupon below) | $3.59 (with coupon below) |
Best Deal | 49% Off Coupon > | 64% Off Coupon > |
ExpressVPN stands tall in the VPN rankings, noted for its user-friendly interface and strong security measures. If you’re seeking a VPN that offers blazing-fast speeds and can effortlessly bypass geo-restrictions on your favorite streaming platforms, ExpressVPN is a top contender. Its reputation for reliability and performance makes it a preferred choice among users worldwide.
On the other hand, Proton VPN, developed by the same team behind ProtonMail, focuses heavily on privacy and security. Based in Switzerland, a country known for its robust data protection laws, Proton VPN ensures that your online activities remain confidential.
This comparison will highlight the differences in their features, pricing, and user experience, helping you decide which VPN service suits your needs best.
Here are the factors I considered when comparing them:
- Key features
Speed tests
Security measures
Logging policies
Jurisdiction and privacy
User experience
Server network
Streaming and torrenting
Customer support
Pricing
Payment and refunds
Key features comparison
Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN offer a range of features designed to enhance your online security and experience.
Feature | ExpressVPN | Proton VPN |
---|---|---|
RAM-only servers | ✔️ | ❌ |
Logs | No logs (audited) | No logs (audited) |
Multiple VPN protocols | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Private DNS | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Split tunneling | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Kill switch | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Obfuscation | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Browser extensions | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Built-in ad blocking | ✔️ | ✔️ |
ExpressVPN boasts several standout features that contribute to its reputation. The TrustedServer technology ensures that all servers run on volatile memory (RAM) rather than hard drives, meaning data is wiped with every reboot, enhancing security. The Lightway protocol, designed for speed and reliability, offers fast performance without compromising security. Additionally, ExpressVPN includes the Keys password manager, which helps users securely store and manage their passwords.
Proton VPN, on the other hand, emphasizes privacy and security with its unique features. The Secure Core servers route VPN traffic through multiple servers located in privacy-friendly countries, providing an extra layer of protection. The VPN Accelerator feature optimizes data flow, boosting overall performance by approximately 5%. Proton VPN also includes the Stealth protocol, which helps users connect even on networks that block VPNs, ensuring consistent access and privacy.
Ad blocking
Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN offer ad-blocking features, but they implement them in different ways. ExpressVPN includes ad-blocking as part of its Threat Manager feature, which prevents apps and websites from communicating with malicious third parties. This feature not only blocks ads but also enhances user privacy by stopping trackers in their tracks. Threat Manager works seamlessly in the background, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted browsing experience.
Proton VPN offers a feature called NetShield, which provides DNS filtering to block ads, malware, and trackers. NetShield comes in three levels: off, basic (blocks malware), and full (blocks malware, ads, and trackers). This allows users to customize their level of protection according to their needs. While both VPNs effectively block ads and enhance privacy, Proton VPN’s NetShield offers more granular control, ideal for users who want to tailor their ad-blocking settings.
Split tunneling
Split tunneling is a crucial feature available in both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN. It allows you to choose which applications or websites use the VPN connection, while others access the internet directly. ExpressVPN offers split tunneling on Windows, Mac OS, Android, and even routers, providing flexibility and control over your internet traffic.
Proton VPN also supports split tunneling, enabling you to select specific applications that bypass the VPN connection. This can be particularly useful if you need to access local network devices while still enjoying the security of Proton VPN’s apps for other applications.
Both VPNs offer this feature, but the implementation and user experience might vary, so consider your specific needs and preferences.
Speed tests
Speed is a critical factor when choosing a VPN, especially for activities like streaming and gaming. Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN are known for their impressive speeds, but there are differences worth noting.
Server location | ExpressVPN download speed (Mbps) | Proton VPN download speed (Mbps) |
Seattle | 718 | 699 |
Los Angeles | 445 | 582 |
New York | 612 | 524 |
London, UK | 552 | 614 |
ExpressVPN consistently delivers outstanding speed performance. In our speed tests, it achieved a download speed of 718 Mbps when connected to a server in Seattle, US, compared to Proton VPN's 699 Mbps.
On their respective New York servers, ExpressVPN demonstrated a notable speed of 612 Mbps, while Proton VPN achieved 524 Mbps.
Proton VPN performed better on a long-distance server in our tests. It recorded an average download speed of 614 Mbps on a UK server, compared to 552 Mbps as measured for ExpressVPN's London server.
These results indicate that while Proton VPN can be faster in some scenarios, ExpressVPN generally offers superior speed performance.
Proton VPN features a VPN Accelerator designed to boost overall performance by optimizing data flow. This feature can enhance speeds by approximately 5%. While this is a valuable addition, ExpressVPN’s consistent speed performance still gives it an edge in this category.
Security measures
Both Proton VPN and ExpressVPN offer robust security features, but there are differences in their encryption standards, connection protocols, and additional security features.
We’ll explore these aspects to understand how each VPN protects you on the internet.
Encryption standards
Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN utilize the AES-256 encryption standard to secure user data, which is considered the gold standard in the industry. ExpressVPN has taken an additional step by implementing post-quantum algorithms as a future-proofing measure in its encryption. The encryption and authentication standards used by ExpressVPN include AES-256, SHA-512 HMAC, and a 4096-bit RSA key, ensuring top-notch security.
While Proton VPN is often considered stronger in terms of privacy compared to other VPNs, both VPNs are closely matched when it comes to encryption standards. Strong encryption algorithms and secure VPN protocols are essential for any top VPN, and both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN meet these criteria.
VPN protocols
VPN protocols supported | |
ExpressVPN | OpenVPN UDP, OpenVPN TCP, IPSec/IKEv2, IPSec/L2TP, and Lightway |
Proton VPN | OpenVPN UDP, OpenVPN TCP, IPSec/IKEv2, WireGuard, and Stealth |
VPN connection protocols are the foundation of a VPN service, determining how data is encrypted and transmitted over the internet. ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol is a proprietary VPN protocol designed for speed, security, and reliability. It uses modern cryptographic techniques to ensure a secure connection while maintaining high performance, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and other high-bandwidth activities. OpenVPN, another protocol supported by ExpressVPN, is an open-source protocol known for its strong security and flexibility. It is widely used and trusted in the VPN industry, providing robust protection for users' data.
Proton VPN's WireGuard protocol is a relatively new addition to the VPN landscape, offering significant improvements in speed and performance compared to older protocols. WireGuard's streamlined codebase makes it easier to audit for security vulnerabilities, enhancing its reputation for safety. The Stealth protocol, unique to Proton VPN, is designed to bypass network restrictions and censorship, making it an excellent choice for users in countries with strict internet controls.
Both VPNs offer a range of protocols to meet different user needs. While ExpressVPN focuses on providing a balance between speed and security with Lightway and OpenVPN, Proton VPN emphasizes high performance and the ability to circumvent censorship with WireGuard and Stealth. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these protocols can help you choose the best VPN service for your specific requirements.
Leak protection and kill switch
Both Proton VPN and ExpressVPN offer a range of additional security features to protect your online activities. ExpressVPN includes a kill switch known as Network Lock, which provides protection against DNS and IP address leaks. Proton VPN also offers a kill switch and DNS leak protection as part of its security features.
These features enhance the overall security of your internet connection, ensuring that your data remains private even if the VPN connection drops.
Logging policy
A strict no-logs policy is crucial for maintaining user privacy. ExpressVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that user data is not stored on its RAM-only servers. This policy has been verified through numerous independent security audits.
Proton VPN also guarantees a no-logs policy, verified by successful yearly audits conducted by Securitum. These audits provide assurance that both VPN services are committed to protecting user privacy.
The no-logs policies of both VPNs are designed to protect user privacy and prevent the logging of user activities. This commitment to privacy is a critical factor to consider when choosing a VPN provider, as it ensures that your online behavior remains confidential.
Jurisdiction and privacy
ExpressVPN operates under the jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-oriented region with no data retention laws. This jurisdiction provides a strong legal framework for protecting user data, ensuring that your online activities remain private.
Proton VPN, on the other hand, is governed by the laws of Switzerland, known for its strong privacy protections and favorable stance on user data.
While the differing jurisdictions of these VPNs indicate varying legal frameworks affecting user privacy, both regions are known for their robust data protection laws. This category is a tie.
User experience
ExpressVPN | Proton VPN | |
Apps | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
Browsers | Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi | Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Opera, Vivaldi |
Other devices supported | Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, gaming consoles (via Mediastreamer), routers (app or manual setup), and more | Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, routers (manual setup), and more |
Connections | 8 | 10 |
Both Proton VPN and ExpressVPN provide a seamless and user-friendly experience, but there are differences in how they achieve this.
Installation and setup
ExpressVPN offers both an app setup and a manual setup option for connecting to the VPN. The app setup is straightforward and recommended for general users. The VPN also provides video tutorials on setup and various topics to assist users. The manual setup is intended for more technically experienced users and is not recommended for the typical user.
Proton VPN provides clear and easy-to-follow written tutorials, making the setup process simple and accessible. These guides are well-organized and straightforward, ensuring that users can quickly get their VPN up and running without any confusion.
App design
ExpressVPN’s app offers convenient features like one-touch connection and easy server changes. The server menu is well organized, listing servers alphabetically and allowing for quick searches. The app’s clean layout and single-click connect feature make it user-friendly and easy for beginners to navigate.
Proton VPN’s app visualizes server connections using a world map, providing a more interactive experience. The VPN provider also provides profiles for personalized configurations, but users have noted that the VPN app can feel cluttered and overwhelming for first-time users.
Device compatibility
Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN offer broad compatibility with various devices and operating systems, allowing you to protect your online activities across multiple platforms.
ExpressVPN supports a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, as well as smart TVs and gaming consoles via its MediaStreamer Smart DNS service. There is also a native router app so you don’t have to go through the hassle of setting the VPN connection up manually. Or you can get the Aircove router, which comes pre-loaded with ExpressVPN out of the box.
This extensive compatibility lets you can secure all your devices with a single subscription. ExpressVPN also offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and more, providing additional convenience for users who prefer to secure their browsing activities directly.
Proton VPN also offers robust device compatibility, supporting Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. Additionally, it can be configured manually on routers to secure all devices connected to the network, and there are also extensions available for popular browsers such as Chrome and Firefox. However, it does not support as many devices as ExpressVPN, particularly when it comes to smart TVs and gaming consoles, as there's no Smart DNS feature offered.
Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN allow multiple simultaneous device connections per account, with ExpressVPN supporting up to 8 devices and Proton VPN allowing up to 10. While these limits are generous and should suffice for most users, they do fall short when compared to Surfshark and IPVanish. Both Surfshark and IPVanish offer unlimited device connections with a single account, providing unparalleled flexibility and convenience for users with numerous devices or large households.
Both VPNs ensure that you can protect your online presence across various devices, but ExpressVPN’s broader device compatibility provides a more comprehensive solution for users with a diverse range of devices.
Server network
Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN offer extensive server networks, but there are notable differences in their reach and infrastructure.
Server locations
ExpressVPN has an extensive network, with VPN servers in over 105 countries, providing broad geographic coverage and enhanced connectivity. This extensive network is comprised of RAM-only servers, which ensure that no data is written on physical drives, meaning it cannot be permanently stored. ExpressVPN has also upgraded many of its servers to 10 Gbps for enhanced speed and performance. Its Smart Location feature suggests the ideal server to connect to considering distance, speed, and latency to enhance user performance.
Proton VPN has servers in around 112 countries, which is slightly more than ExpressVPN’s extensive number of locations. However, both VPNs offer a range of server locations, providing you with options for better performance and access.
Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN utilize virtual servers as part of their infrastructure. This allows them to provide service in regions where setting up physical servers may be challenging. Virtual VPN servers let VPNs provide IP addresses without compromising user privacy, which can be beneficial in regions with stricter regulations.
Streaming and torrenting
Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN offer strong streaming and torrenting performance, but there are differences that may influence your choice.
Unblocking streaming services
ExpressVPN is recognized for its ability to bypass geo-restrictions on popular streaming services. It works with more streaming services compared to Proton VPN, including Netflix, Max, Disney+, Hulu, DAZN, and Amazon Prime Video. In my tests, ExpressVPN successfully accessed Netflix libraries for the US, UK, Japan, Australia, and Canada, making it one of the best VPNs for Netflix and an overall superior choice for streaming.
Proton VPN can unblock several popular services like Netflix (US, UK, Japan, Australia, Canada), BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. However, it faces issues such as inconsistent speeds when streaming and initial buffering on some servers. While Proton VPN offers decent streaming capabilities, ExpressVPN is considered superior in this category.
Torrenting support
Both Proton VPN and ExpressVPN allow torrenting, but there are differences in their support and performance. Proton VPN’s free tier does not support torrenting features, which may be a limitation for some users. ExpressVPN, on the other hand, is faster for torrenting compared to Proton VPN, making it a better choice for users who prioritize speed.
For optimal torrenting experiences, ExpressVPN is recommended over Proton VPN due to its superior speed and performance. Proton VPN’s port forwarding feature can enhance torrenting activities, but the overall performance still lags behind ExpressVPN.
Customer support
Customer support is an essential aspect of any VPN service, providing assistance and guidance when needed. Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN offer solid support options, but there are differences in their availability and accessibility.
Live chat and email support
ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat support available to all users, including those who are not paying subscribers. This ensures that users can receive prompt assistance at any time. Proton VPN's live chat is offered only for paid subscribers, while also offering direct email support through Zendesk, which allows for efficient routing and prioritization of customer queries.
Both VPNs offer solid support options, but ExpressVPN’s 24/7 live chat is more accessible and responsive compared to Proton VPN’s limited chat support for paid subscribers.
Tutorials and guides
ExpressVPN offers extensive written guides that address common issues and provide detailed instructions. These guides are complemented by comprehensive video tutorials that cover installation and various features, making it easy for users to navigate the VPN’s functionalities. Proton VPN also provides video tutorials covering various setup and usage topics to assist users.
Proton VPN features well-organized and straightforward written tutorials for its users, ensuring that they can quickly find the information they need.
Both VPN providers offer a range of tutorials and guides, but ExpressVPN’s combination of detailed written and video content provides a more comprehensive resource for users.
Pricing
While both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN offer various plans, there are differences in their pricing structures and refund policies.
Subscription length | ExpressVPN | Proton VPN |
1 month | $12.95 | $9.99 |
6 months | $9.99/mo. | N/A |
1 year | $6.67/mo | $3.99/mo |
2 years | N/A | $3.59/mo |
Coupon | 49% Off Coupon | 64% Off Coupon |
Proton VPN offers a monthly subscription plan at $9.99, an annual plan for $3.99 per month, and a two-year plan priced at $3.59 per month. ExpressVPN provides a monthly subscription for $12.95 and an annual plan priced at $6.67/mo. There's also a 6-month plan which comes at $9.99/mo.
While Proton VPN generally offers more affordable pricing compared to ExpressVPN, the latter’s performance and features may justify the higher cost for some users. Neither VPN made our list of the best cheap VPNs as their pricing can't compare with the likes of NordVPN and Surfshark. Understanding the pricing and value of each VPN can help you choose the one that best fits your budget and needs.
Payment and refunds
The availability of diverse payment options can enhance the convenience and privacy of your VPN subscription. Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN offer a range of payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies.
When it comes to cryptocurrencies, Proton VPN allows users to pay using Bitcoin, which is a great way to maintain anonymity during transactions. Proton VPN plans to introduce direct payment options with Bitcoin during the signup process in the future, although currently, Bitcoin can only be used to buy credits after signing up. These credits can then be used to pay for your Proton subscription.
Both Proton VPN and ExpressVPN accept major credit cards, making it easy for users to subscribe using their existing cards. PayPal is supported as a payment option by both VPNs, providing users an extra layer of convenience and security. Additionally, both VPNs offer various alternative payment methods, including bank transfers and payments through payment processors, ensuring flexibility at checkout.
Refund Policies
Refund policies are an essential aspect to consider when choosing a VPN, as they provide an assurance of satisfaction and financial security. ExpressVPN offers a full refund policy, meaning you can receive your money back in full if you decide to cancel your subscription within the specified period.
Proton VPN’s refund option is prorated, which differs from ExpressVPN’s full refund policy. This difference can impact your decision, especially if you want the flexibility to cancel your subscription without financial loss.
Conclusion and final verdict
Let's break down how ExpressVPN and Proton VPN performed in each category:
Category | Winner |
Key features | Tie |
Speed tests | ExpressVPN |
Security measures | Tie |
Logging policies | Tie |
Jurisdiction and privacy | Tie |
User experience | ExpressVPN |
Server network | Tie |
Streaming and torrenting | ExpressVPN |
Customer support | ExpressVPN |
Pricing | Proton VPN |
Payment and refunds | ExpressVPN |
ExpressVPN emerges as the superior choice due to its faster speeds and more reliable performance compared to Proton VPN. While Proton VPN offers more affordable pricing, ExpressVPN’s overall value is recognized as higher due to its performance. ExpressVPN also offers 24/7 live chat support that is available to everyone, not just paying subscribers, ensuring prompt assistance whenever needed.
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Proton VPN, with its strong focus on privacy and affordability, is a solid alternative for those who value these features. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each VPN, you can make an informed decision that best suits your requirements.
This ExpressVPN vs. Proton VPN comparison guide was last updated on August 29, 2024.
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