Choosing the right VPN for streaming can feel like navigating a maze.
You want something fast enough for buffer-free bingeing, but also secure enough to keep your data safe.
Two popular names often pop up: ExpressVPN and Mullvad.
Both have their strengths, but which one comes out on top for streaming?
In this comparison, we’ll break down expressVPN vs mullvad & their speed, streaming performance, and unique features to help you decide which VPN perfect.
ExpressVPN vs Mullvad: Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, we’ve put both ExpressVPN and Mullvad through rigorous testing.
We’ve evaluated their speeds, streaming performance on popular platforms, security features, and overall user experience to determine which VPN reigns supreme.
Ready to experience Express VPN without limits? Enjoy blazing-fast speeds, top-notch security, and access to your favorite content.
Pricing: 30-day money-back guarantee. Plan Starts at $8.33/month
Key Features:
- Split Tunneling
- Lightway Protocol
- TrustedServer Technology
What is ExpressVPN?
Now, let’s talk about ExpressVPN. This one’s a real speed demon!
They’re known for having super-fast connections, perfect for streaming or downloading large files.
They also have servers in 94 countries, so you have many options for finding a server that meets your needs.
And don’t even get me started on their security features. They’re top-notch!
Experience the internet without limits. ExpressVPN offers a blazing-fast, secure, and private online experience with 94 country locations and a no-logs policy.
Key Benefits
- Blazing-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming and downloading.
- Extensive server network: Connect to servers in 94 countries.
- Best-in-class security: Features include AES-256 encryption and a kill switch.
- User-friendly apps: Easy to set up and use on all your devices.
Pricing
1 month: $12.95/month.
12 months: $8.33/month.
6 months: $9.99/month.
Pros
Cons
What is Mullvad?
Now, let’s talk about Mullvad. Think of Mullvad as the quiet champion of the VPN world.
They’re not as flashy as NordVPN, but they’re super serious about your privacy.
Mullvad is based in Sweden, a country known for its strong privacy laws. They don’t even ask for your email address to sign up! How cool is that?
Take control of your privacy with Mullvad VPN! For just €5 per month, you can access over 800 servers in 40 countries and a strict no-logs policy.
Key Benefits
- Strong focus on anonymity: No email address is required to sign up.
- Open-source: Transparent and trustworthy.
- Strong security: Uses WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols.
- Accepts Bitcoin: For anonymous payments.
Pricing
Mullvad VPN has a simple pricing structure: €5/month. That’s it! No discounts for longer subscriptions.
Pros
Cons
ExpressVPN vs Mullvad: Feature Comparison
To help you make an informed decision, let’s take a closer look at the features offered by both ExpressVPN and Mullvad.
This side-by-side comparison will highlight their strengths and weaknesses.
Speed and Performance
ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPNs on the market, consistently outperforming Mullvad in speed tests.
This makes ExpressVPN the better choice for activities that demand high speeds, like streaming and downloading.
However, Mullvad VPN still provides decent speeds that are suitable for everyday browsing and typical VPN use.
Streaming Capabilities
ExpressVPN takes the lead in this category, offering seamless access to a wide range of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
While Mullvad VPN can unblock some platforms, its compatibility isn’t as extensive.
So, if you’re a frequent streamer, ExpressVPN is the better choice.
Security Features
Both ExpressVPN and Mullvad VPN prioritize your security.
They both offer strong encryption and a kill switch. Mullvad VPN comes with WireGuard, a fast and secure VPN tunneling protocol.
ExpressVPN also offers a variety of security protocols. Neither ExpressVPN nor Mullvad VPN keep logs of your online activity.
However, Mullvad VPN takes privacy a step further by allowing anonymous account creation and payments.
Server Network
ExpressVPN boasts a significantly larger server network than Mullvad, with servers in over 94 countries.
This gives you more options for connecting to a VPN server and bypassing geo-restrictions. Mullvad VPN’s server network is smaller but still covers a decent range of locations.
Device Compatibility
ExpressVPN supports a wider range of devices than Mullvad, including routers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
Mullvad VPN focuses on core platforms like computers and smartphones.
So, if you need to use a VPN on multiple devices, ExpressVPN is the more versatile option.
User Experience
ExpressVPN offers a more polished and user-friendly experience. Its apps are intuitive and easy to navigate, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced VPN users.
Mullvad VPN’s apps are more basic, which some users may find less appealing.
However, Mullvad VPN lets you see exactly what connections are active on your account at any given time, which can be reassuring for privacy-conscious users.
This ExpressVPN vs Mullvad comparison shows that both are excellent VPN services with different strengths.
ExpressVPN excels in speed, streaming, and user experience, while Mullvad VPN shines in privacy and security features.
The best choice for you depends on your individual needs and priorities in 2024.
What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?
- No-logs policy: Make sure the VPN provider doesn’t keep logs of your online activity. This is crucial for privacy.
- Strong encryption: Look for a VPN that uses AES-256 encryption or higher. This ensures your data is unreadable to third parties.
- Kill switch: A kill switch disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP address from being exposed.
- Server locations: Consider where you need to connect to. A VPN with servers in your desired location will provide better speeds and access to geo-restricted content.
- Simultaneous connections: Check how many devices you can connect to the VPN simultaneously.
- Free trial or money-back guarantee allows you to test the VPN before committing to a long-term subscription.
- Independent audits: Some VPN providers undergo independent audits to verify their security and privacy claims.
Final Verdict (Our Pick)
In this ExpressVPN vs Mullvad VPN comparison, we’ve explored these two popular VPN services to help you choose the best VPN for your needs in 2024.
ExpressVPN wins this round of the Mullvad vs ExpressVPN duel. Why? ExpressVPN is faster than Mullvad VPN.
Our ExpressVPN vs Mullvad speed tests showed a clear advantage for ExpressVPN. This makes ExpressVPN the better choice for streaming and downloading.
ExpressVPN also offers a more extensive VPN server network and supports more streaming services compared to Mullvad.
ExpressVPN is also more user-friendly compared to Mullvad VPN.
But this Mullvad vs ExpressVPN comparison isn’t a simple knockout. Mullvad VPN has its own strengths. Mullvad VPN offers a more affordable VPN service.
It’s cheaper than ExpressVPN, making it appealing for budget-conscious VPN users.
Mullvad VPN also offers unique VPN features like the Mullvad browser, which enhances online privacy.
Both Mullvad VPN and ExpressVPN offer essential VPN features like a kill switch, strong encryption, and a no-logs policy.
Neither ExpressVPN nor Mullvad VPN compromises on security.
So, ExpressVPN or Mullvad VPN?
The best VPN is the one that best fits your needs. Mullvad VPN is a great VPN, especially for privacy-focused users.
But overall, ExpressVPN is the better choice than Mullvad for most users.
ExpressVPN and Mullvad VPN offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try both and see which VPN is better for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mullvad VPN better than ExpressVPN in 2024?
While Mullvad VPN has its strengths, ExpressVPN takes the lead in this Mullvad VPN vs ExpressVPN comparison. ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPNs available, offering a smoother streaming experience and faster downloads. ExpressVPN also has a better server network and supports more devices than Mullvad.
Why is ExpressVPN more expensive than Mullvad VPN?
ExpressVPN costs more because it offers a wider range of features, including a larger server network, better device compatibility, and more advanced security features like double VPN. However, both ExpressVPN and Mullvad VPN offer a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try them risk-free.
Does Mullvad VPN work with Netflix?
Yes, Mullvad VPN can unblock Netflix. However, ExpressVPN has a better track record with streaming services and supports more platforms than Mullvad. So, if streaming is your priority, ExpressVPN is the better choice.
What are the key differences between Mullvad VPN and ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN takes the lead in speed (as shown in Mullvad vs ExpressVPN speed tests), streaming capabilities, and user experience. Mullvad VPN takes the crown for affordability and a strong focus on privacy. Mullvad VPN also comes with WireGuard, a fast and modern VPN tunnel protocol.
Which VPN should I choose: ExpressVPN or Mullvad VPN?
The best choice depends on your needs. If you prioritize speed, streaming, and ease of use, choose ExpressVPN. If affordability and privacy are your main concerns, Mullvad VPN is a solid option. Ultimately, both are great VPNs with different strengths.
