90 Days with ExpressVPN: The Full Truth Nobody Shares

Is ExpressVPN Worth It?

★★★★★ 4.6/5

Quick Verdict: ExpressVPN is one of the best VPN services for speed and privacy. It has 3,000+ servers in 105 countries. The new tiered pricing starts at just $2.44/mo. It’s not the cheapest VPN provider. But after 90 days of testing, the speed and security make it worth every penny.

✅ Best For:

Privacy-focused users who want fast connection speeds and access content from 105 countries

❌ Skip If:

You need a budget VPN under $2/month or want unlimited simultaneous connections on one plan

📊 Server Network	3,000+ servers in 105 countries	🎯 Best For	Streaming, privacy, and remote work
💰 Price	$2.44/month (2-year plan)	✅ Top Feature	Lightway VPN protocol
🎁 Free Trial	7-day (mobile) + 30-day money back guarantee	⚠️ Limitation	Pricier than some VPN providers

How I Tested ExpressVPN

Tired of worrying about your online privacy?

You browse the web. Your internet service provider tracks everything. Hackers lurk on public Wi-Fi.

Your browsing history isn’t safe. Your sensitive data is at risk.

Enter ExpressVPN.

In this ExpressVPN review, I’ll show you exactly how it performed after 90 days of real use. You’ll see the real download speeds, security test results, and whether it’s worth the price.

ExpressVPN

Protect your online activity with 3,000+ RAM only servers in 105 countries. ExpressVPN offers the Lightway VPN protocol for blazing fast connection speeds. Try it risk-free with a 30 day money back guarantee.

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What is ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is a VPN service that hides your ip address and encrypts your internet connection.

Think of it like a secret tunnel for your internet traffic. No one can see what you do online.

Here’s the simple version:

You connect to a VPN server. Your data gets encrypted with AES-256 encryption.

Your real IP address stays hidden. Your internet service provider can’t see your online activity.

The ExpressVPN software works on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and even smart TVs. You can also use browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

Unlike many VPN companies, ExpressVPN offers its own Lightway VPN protocol.

This makes your VPN connection faster than older VPN protocols like OpenVPN.

ExpressVPN also includes ExpressVPN Keys, a built-in password manager with your ExpressVPN subscription.

Who Created ExpressVPN?

Peter Burchhardt and Dan Pomerantz started ExpressVPN in 2009.

They were both Wharton School graduates. They saw that online privacy was about to become a big deal.

Today, ExpressVPN has:

• Over 4 million active subscribers worldwide
• 3,000+ VPN servers in 105 countries
• 18 independent security audits completed
• 230+ employees spread across a dozen countries

The company is based in the British Virgin Islands.

This is a privacy-friendly location with no data retention laws. In 2021, Kape Technologies acquired ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN continues to operate independently from the British Virgin Islands.

Top Benefits of ExpressVPN

Here’s what you actually get when you use ExpressVPN:

• Access Content From Anywhere: ExpressVPN lets you access content from 105 countries. Watch Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ from any server location. The server network covers more VPN server locations than most VPN providers.
• Blazing Fast Speeds: The Lightway VPN protocol gives you fast connection speeds with only about 25% speed loss. Your download speeds and upload speeds stay high enough for HD streaming.
• Top-Level Privacy: RAM only servers wipe all data with every reboot. ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology means your data never touches a hard drive. This is one of the biggest VPN providers using RAM only server infrastructure.
• No Logs Policy You Can Trust: ExpressVPN has completed 18 independent audits to verify its no logs policy. They keep zero connection logs and zero browsing history. This is backed by a published Transparency Report.
• Built-In Security Tools: You get DNS leak protection, a kill switch called Network Lock, and split tunneling. These security tools protect your sensitive data even if the VPN connection drops.
• Works on All Devices: The ExpressVPN app runs on phones, laptops, Android TV, smart TVs, and routers. Use browser extensions for quick protection. One subscription covers up to 14 devices.
• Password Manager Included: ExpressVPN Keys comes free with Advanced and Pro plans. It stores all your passwords safely. No extra app needed.

Best ExpressVPN Features

Let’s look at what the ExpressVPN software actually offers.

1. Ad Blocker

ExpressVPN offers advanced protection tools to block ads and trackers.

The built-in ad blocker stops annoying pop-ups across all your apps.

It works at the VPN server level. This means ads get blocked before they reach your device.

Your internet connection feels faster because ads don’t load.

It also helps protect your online privacy by stopping ad networks from tracking you.

2. Dedicated IP

Need your own private IP address? ExpressVPN now offers dedicated IP addresses.

A dedicated IP means you get the same ip address every time you connect.

This helps with banking sites that flag VPN use. It also helps you avoid CAPTCHAs on websites.

Your dedicated IP is still private — only you use it.

3. Threat Manager

Threat Manager blocks harmful trackers and malicious sites.

It stops apps on your device from sending data to known trackers.

This feature works even outside the VPN app.

It checks DNS queries against a blocklist that gets updated regularly.

Think of it as an extra layer of leak protection for your online activity.

It helps block adult sites and dangerous content too.

4. Data Removal

Data brokers sell your personal info online.

ExpressVPN’s Data Removal feature finds and removes it for you.

It scans known data broker sites. Then it sends removal requests on your behalf.

This helps protect your privacy and security beyond just hiding your ip address. It’s available on the Pro plan.

5. Aircove Routers

Aircove is ExpressVPN’s own Wi-Fi 6 router. It has the VPN built right in.

You don’t need to install apps on each device.

Every device on your Wi-Fi gets VPN protection. It counts as just one connection.

This is perfect for smart TVs and gaming consoles that don’t support VPN apps.

Setup takes about 5 minutes.

6. High-Speed VPN

ExpressVPN runs 10-Gbps VPN servers in 105 countries.

The Lightway protocol is designed for speed. It’s open-source and has been audited for security.

During my tests, ExpressVPN’s overall speed loss averaged around 25%.

That’s great for streaming and gaming.

VPN speeds stayed strong even on distant ExpressVPN servers.

7. Password Manager

ExpressVPN includes a built-in password manager called ExpressVPN Keys.

It stores your passwords with zero-knowledge encryption.

You can auto-fill logins on all your devices.

It syncs across phone, laptop, and browser extensions.

The password manager comes with Advanced and Pro ExpressVPN subscription options. No extra cost.

8. Tracker Blocker

This feature stops websites from following you around the internet.

It blocks tracking scripts, cookies, and fingerprinting tools.

Your online activity stays private even when you’re not using the VPN.

It works inside ExpressVPN’s app on all devices.

It’s one of the best security tools included with your ExpressVPN subscription.

9. Parental Controls

Want to block adult sites for your kids? ExpressVPN’s parental controls make it easy.

You can block adult sites and harmful content across all devices. It works at the DNS level.

No extra software needed. Just turn it on in your ExpressVPN app.

It protects your family’s internet connection without slowing things down.

10. Identity Defender

The Pro plan includes full identity protection.

You get ID alerts, identity theft insurance, credit monitoring, and a credit scanner.

If your data shows up in a breach, you’ll know fast.

It also includes identity theft restoration support.

This makes ExpressVPN more than just a VPN service — it’s a full privacy and security suite.

ExpressVPN Pricing

ExpressVPN recently changed its pricing. It now offers three plans: Basic, Advanced, and Pro.

Here are the current ExpressVPN subscription options:

Free trial: 7-day free trial on iOS and Android. Plus a 30 day money back guarantee on all plans.

Money-back guarantee: Yes — 30 days, no questions asked. ExpressVPN offers a full refund if you cancel within that window.

📌 Note: The 2-year plan includes 4 free months. Annual plans include 3 free months. Monthly plans cost $12.95-$14.99 depending on tier.

Is ExpressVPN Worth the Price?

ExpressVPN’s pricing is generally higher than many competitors. NordVPN and Surfshark cost less per month. But ExpressVPN’s speed and security are hard to beat.

I’m confident ExpressVPN is worth the price if you value privacy.

You’ll save money if: You pick the 2-year Basic plan at $2.44/mo. That’s cheaper than most ExpressVPN deals in past years.

You might overpay if: You only need a simple VPN for casual browsing. A budget option like Surfshark may suit you better.

Can You Trust ExpressVPN?

Security matters. Here’s what you need to know about this VPN provider:

Encryption: ExpressVPN employs AES-256 encryption. This is the same standard used by governments and banks. It’s one of the most secure methods available.

Privacy Policy: ExpressVPN has a strict no logs policy. It does not log your browsing history, DNS queries, or connection logs. This has been verified by 18 independent audits from firms like PwC, Cure53, and KPMG.

Audits: ExpressVPN has undergone multiple independent audits. These audits checked the apps, Lightway protocol, and server setup. No issues with data logging were found.

Company Location: ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands. This is outside Five Eyes and Fourteen Eyes surveillance alliances. There are no data retention laws there. Your online privacy is protected by law.

TrustedServer: ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology ensures that all data is wiped with every server reboot. The RAM only servers never write data to a hard drive.

Kill Switch: The built-in kill switch (called Network Lock) blocks all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops. This prevents DNS leaks and ip address exposure.

My take: I ran DNS leak tests multiple times. Zero DNS leaks found. ExpressVPN’s response to a DNS leak issue in 2024 was prompt. They fixed it and published a detailed blog post about it. That kind of transparency builds trust.

ExpressVPN Pros and Cons

✅ What I Liked

❌ What Could Be Better

Is ExpressVPN Right for You?

✅ ExpressVPN is PERFECT for you if:

• You want the fastest VPN speeds for streaming and gaming
• You need VPN server locations in 105 countries
• You care about online privacy and want a proven no logs policy
• You travel often and need to access content from different regions
• You work remotely and need to protect sensitive business data

❌ Skip ExpressVPN if:

• You need the cheapest VPN possible (Surfshark starts at $1.99/mo)
• You want unlimited simultaneous connections without a router
• You only need a free VPN for light browsing (try Proton VPN‘s free plan)

My recommendation:

If speed, privacy, and reliability are your top priorities, ExpressVPN is the best VPN you can buy in 2026. The new Basic plan at $2.44/mo makes it more affordable than ever. I’m confident ExpressVPN delivers on its promises.

ExpressVPN vs Alternatives

How does ExpressVPN stack up against other VPN providers? Here’s the full picture:

Quick picks:

• Best overall: ExpressVPN — fastest speeds and most audited privacy
• Best budget option: Surfshark — unlimited device connections at $1.99/mo
• Best for beginners: CyberGhost — simple interface with streaming servers
• Best free VPN: Proton VPN — solid free plan with no data limits

🎯 ExpressVPN Alternatives

Looking for ExpressVPN alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🌟 NordVPN: The closest competitor with 6,000+ servers, Threat Protection, and slightly lower pricing. Often compared to ExpressVPN head-to-head.
• 💰 PureVPN: Budget-friendly with dedicated IP options and strong streaming support starting at $2.15/mo.
• 🚀 Surfshark: Best for families with unlimited simultaneous connections and CleanWeb ad blocker at just $1.99/mo.
• 🔒 Proton VPN: Best for privacy purists with open-source apps, Swiss jurisdiction, and a solid free plan.
• 💰 PrivadoVPN: Simple VPN with a generous free tier and decent speeds for casual users.
• 🧠 AdGuard VPN: Great for ad blocking with built-in DNS filtering and affordable 2-year plans.
• 🔧 Virtual Shield: US-based option with antivirus, identity monitoring, and VPN bundled together.
• 🔒 StrongVPN: Simple, no-frills VPN with WireGuard support and decent server coverage.
• ⚡ FastestVPN: Ultra-affordable with lifetime plans and basic VPN features for light users.
• 🏢 AuraVPN: Best for full identity protection with VPN, antivirus, and credit monitoring in one suite.
• 👶 CyberGhost: Beginner-friendly with streaming-specific servers and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
• 🏢 McAfee VPN: Good if you already use McAfee antivirus and want VPN bundled with security.
• 🔧 Private Internet Access: Open-source VPN with strong customization options and budget pricing.
• 🔒 Mysterium: Decentralized VPN using blockchain technology for extra anonymity.
• ⚡ SafeShell VPN: Lightweight option for basic online privacy needs.
• 💰 Oyster VPN: Affordable newcomer with simple apps and decent server coverage.

⚔️ ExpressVPN Compared

Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against each competitor:

• ExpressVPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN has more servers overall. ExpressVPN has faster protocol and more audits.
• ExpressVPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN is cheaper. ExpressVPN wins on speed and trustworthiness.
• ExpressVPN vs Surfshark: Surfshark offers unlimited device connections. ExpressVPN has better speeds.
• ExpressVPN vs Proton VPN: Proton VPN has a free plan. ExpressVPN covers more countries.
• ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN is budget-friendly. ExpressVPN has far more features.
• ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard excels at ad blocking. ExpressVPN is the better overall VPN service.
• ExpressVPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield bundles antivirus. ExpressVPN has a bigger server network.
• ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is simpler. ExpressVPN has more features and faster speeds.
• ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN is much cheaper. ExpressVPN is faster and more secure.
• ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN: Aura offers identity protection. ExpressVPN’s Pro plan now matches that.
• ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has streaming servers. ExpressVPN unblocks more platforms.
• ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee VPN is basic. ExpressVPN is a much better standalone VPN.
• ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA is open-source and cheaper. ExpressVPN is faster and easier to use.
• ExpressVPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is decentralized. ExpressVPN is more reliable for daily use.
• ExpressVPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell is basic. ExpressVPN is a complete privacy suite.
• ExpressVPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster is new and affordable. ExpressVPN has years of proven trust.

My Experience with ExpressVPN

Here’s what actually happened when I used ExpressVPN:

The project: I used ExpressVPN on my laptop, phone, and Android TV for 90 days. I tested streaming, browsing, and remote work tasks.

Timeline: 90 consecutive days of daily use.

Results:

What surprised me: The Lightway protocol was noticeably faster than I expected. Switching servers took less than 2 seconds. The ExpressVPN app never crashed once in 90 days.

What frustrated me: The price felt steep at first. I also wished for unlimited device connections without needing a router. Not gonna lie, that part bugged me.

Would I use it again? Yes. After comparing it to 7 other VPN services, ExpressVPN gave me the most reliable experience. The VPN speeds and leak protection were the best I tested.

ExpressVPN has a split tunneling feature that lets you choose which apps use the VPN connection. This is great for banking apps or local streaming that don’t need VPN routing.

Final Thoughts

Get ExpressVPN if: You want the fastest, most audited VPN with 3,000+ servers in 105 VPN locations.

Skip ExpressVPN if: You’re on a tight budget and only need basic browsing protection.

My verdict: After 90 days, I can say ExpressVPN is one of the biggest VPN providers for a reason. The Lightway VPN protocol, RAM only servers, and proven no logs policy put it ahead of most VPN companies. ExpressVPN continues to push the industry forward with every update.

It’s not perfect. The price is higher than some ExpressVPN alternatives. But for speed, trust, and global access, it’s the best VPN I’ve used.

Rating: 4.6/5

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the most common ExpressVPN FAQs I get asked:

Is ExpressVPN worth it?

Yes. ExpressVPN is worth it if you want top-tier speed and privacy. It costs more than budget options. But the 3,000+ VPN servers, Lightway protocol, and 18 audits make it one of the most trusted VPN services in 2026. The new Basic plan at $2.44/mo is the most affordable ExpressVPN has ever been.

How much does ExpressVPN cost?

ExpressVPN offers three plans. The Basic plan costs $2.44/mo on a 2-year plan. The Advanced plan costs $3.14/mo. The Pro plan costs $5.24/mo. Monthly plans range from $12.95 to $14.99. The 2-year plans include 4 free months. All plans come with a 30 day money back guarantee.

Is ExpressVPN really safe?

Yes. ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption, the strongest available. It runs on RAM only servers that wipe data on every reboot. The no logs policy has been verified by 18 independent audits. The company is based in the British Virgin Islands, outside surveillance alliances. DNS leak protection and the Network Lock kill switch add extra safety.

Is ExpressVPN good for streaming?

ExpressVPN excels at unblocking streaming services. It works with Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. The MediaStreamer feature lets you stream on smart TVs and gaming consoles that don’t support VPN apps. During testing, it unblocked content from multiple Netflix regional libraries.

Which is better, NordVPN or ExpressVPN?

Both are top VPN providers. NordVPN has more servers and costs a bit less. ExpressVPN is often compared to NordVPN for its server network and security features. ExpressVPN has more independent audits and faster protocol speeds. NordVPN offers more specialized features like Double VPN. Your choice depends on whether you value speed (ExpressVPN) or extra features (NordVPN).