📊 Our Test Results:
- 🎯 Server Network: ExpressVPN 3,000+ servers in 105 countries vs AuraVPN 100+ virtual locations — ExpressVPN wins
- ⚡ Speed Loss: ExpressVPN 25% average loss vs AuraVPN around 30% — ExpressVPN wins
- 🔒 Security Audits: ExpressVPN 18 independent audits vs AuraVPN limited audit history — ExpressVPN wins
- 📝 Streaming Test: ExpressVPN unblocked Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer vs AuraVPN partial unblocking — ExpressVPN wins
- 🛡️ Identity Protection: ExpressVPN basic ID monitoring vs AuraVPN $1 million insurance and credit monitoring — AuraVPN wins
Are you tired of hackers and data brokers tracking every move you make online?
You need strong privacy and security tools that protect your internet connection and personal information.
Two names dominate this space: ExpressVPN and AuraVPN.
ExpressVPN is one of the biggest vpn providers in the world.
It is known for fast connection speeds, a huge server network, and a strict no logs policy.
AuraVPN comes bundled with identity theft protection services, antivirus software, and a password manager.
The two vpn services solve very different problems for different people.
Picking the wrong tool could cost you money or leave gaps in your online privacy.
That is why we tested both apps for weeks on real devices.
In this head to head matchup, we’ll break down the strengths and weaknesses of each tool.
You’ll see which vpn service fits your budget, tech stack, and privacy needs.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, we tested both ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN.
We spent weeks using each vpn app on different devices and operating systems.
We ran dns leak tests, speed tests, and streaming tests across many server locations.
We also checked how each vpn provider handles sensitive data and online privacy.
We looked at pricing, customer support, and the overall user experience of each vpn app.
We compared vpn protocols, encryption standards, and how each service handles dns queries.
We tested each vpn server for speed, reliability, and the ability to access content from other regions.
Our goal is to help you pick the best vpn for your needs with zero guesswork.
What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is one of the biggest vpn providers in the world.
It helps you browse the web safely by hiding your ip address.
The expressvpn service runs over 3,000 vpn servers across 105 countries.
It is based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy friendly country.
ExpressVPN offers military grade AES-256 encryption and a proprietary Lightway protocol built for speed.
The expressvpn app works on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, smart tvs, and Android tv.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a premium vpn service trusted by millions. It offers fast vpn speeds, 18 independent audits, and a verified no logs policy. It unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney Plus with ease.
ExpressVPN Pricing
Here is what expressvpn costs in 2026 across its three main expressvpn subscription options.
Let’s break down each plan so you can pick the right one.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.44/mo | Core vpn protection with fast speeds |
| Advanced | $3.14/mo | VPN plus Keys password manager and ID monitoring |
| Pro | $5.24/mo | Dedicated ip addresses and full identity defender |
Free trial: No free trial on desktop. A 7 day free trial is offered on iOS and Android devices.
Money-back guarantee: Every expressvpn subscription comes with a 30 day money back guarantee.
📌 Note: The Basic plan covers 10 unlimited simultaneous connections. The Pro plan bumps that up to 14 unlimited device connections and adds dedicated ip addresses.
⚠️ Warning: ExpressVPN deals renew at the standard annual price after your first term. The Basic plan renews at around $99.95 per year.
Key Benefits of ExpressVPN
Here is why confident expressvpn users stick with the service year after year.
- Huge Server Network: Over 3,000 expressvpn servers spread across 105 countries. You get tons of vpn server locations to pick from.
- Fast Connection Speeds: The Lightway vpn protocol keeps speed loss around 25 percent. Download speeds and upload speeds stay high on nearby servers.
- Verified No Logs Policy: ExpressVPN continues to pass 18 independent audits. No connection logs, dns queries, or browsing history are stored.
- RAM Only Servers: TrustedServer tech uses ram only server infrastructure. Every reboot wipes all data on ram only servers.
- Strong Leak Protection: Built in dns leak protection and a network lock kill switch keep your ip address hidden. We confirmed zero dns leaks during a dns leak test.
- Streaming Power: ExpressVPN is the best vpn for streaming service access. It unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, and Hulu on every streaming service we tested.
- Extra Security Tools: You get ExpressVPN Keys password manager, split tunneling feature, and a threat manager to block adult sites and trackers.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Massive server network with 3,000+ vpn servers in 105 countries
- Verified no logs policy with 18 independent audits completed
- Excellent customer support with 24/7 live chat and email help
- Unblocks all major streaming services on every platform tested
- Strong security features, browser extensions, and expressvpn alternatives for every device
❌ Cons
- Higher pricing than private internet access or Surfshark
- No free plan — only a short trial on mobile devices
- Dedicated ip addresses are locked to the top tier Pro plan
- Some expressvpn faqs confirm prices rise at renewal time
What is AuraVPN?
AuraVPN is part of the larger Aura identity protection services bundle.
It is not a standalone vpn service like expressvpn.
Aura helps you with identity theft protection, credit monitoring, and online privacy all in one app.
The aura’s vpn is a bonus feature you get with any aura plan.
Aura uses military grade encryption and blocks malicious websites and dangerous sites.
The aura installed app runs on Windows, Mac, iOS devices, and Android.
AuraVPN
AuraVPN is an all in one safety suite. It bundles an identity theft protection service, aura antivirus, and a virtual private network. You also get $1 million in identity theft insurance on every plan.
AuraVPN Pricing
Aura offers four different aura plans based on how many people you want to cover.
All plans include the same core features, so you do not get tiered service.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Kids | $10/month | Child-only protection and safe gaming |
| Individual | $12/month | One adult member with full features |
| Couple | $22/month | Two adults sharing the same plan |
| Family | $32/month | Up to 5 adults and unlimited kids SSN coverage |
Free trial: Aura offers a 14 day free trial on all aura plans so you can test aura before paying.
Money-back guarantee: Every plan comes with a 60 day money back guarantee, which is twice as long as most vpn companies.
📌 Note: The family plan includes parental controls, screen time limits, and safe gaming features for kids. It also adds home title monitoring and unique features like spam list removal.
⚠️ Warning: Aura offers premium pricing for bundled services. If you only want a virtual private network, cheaper vpn providers exist on the market.
Key Benefits of AuraVPN
Here is why people pick aura over single purpose vpn services.
- Identity Theft Insurance: Aura offers $1 million identity theft insurance to cover legal fees and eligible losses. This is rare among vast majority of vpn services.
- Credit Monitoring: Aura monitored credit reports across 3 bureaus and alerts on most credit inquiries. It includes your annual credit report and investment account monitoring.
- Real Time Malware Protection: Aura antivirus scans for most malware in real time protection mode. It blocks dangerous sites and phishing attempts.
- Aura’s Password Manager: Aura’s password manager alerts you about data breaches. It links directly to identity protection for better security on online accounts.
- Aura’s Identity Theft Protections: Aura’s identity theft protections include dark web monitoring, credit lock, and experian file alerts. You can lock your experian credit file and credit file instantly.
- Data Broker Removal: Aura removes your sensitive information from data broker sites. This cuts down how much personal information identity thieves can find online.
- Family Plans for Kids: Family plans include address monitoring, adult member coverage, and kid specific features. Screen time limits and safe browsing keep kids safe.
AuraVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- All in one safety bundle with aura’s identity theft protection service
- $1 million identity theft insurance included on every plan
- 60 day money back guarantee gives you time to save money if unhappy
- Great for families with adult member coverage and parental controls
- Aura worth the price if you want financial fraud and credit fraud defense
❌ Cons
- Aura’s vpn lacks a kill switch and cannot pick server location
- Premium pricing compared to top vpn providers like Proton VPN
- Not ideal for streaming or torrenting workloads
- No browser extensions for the vpn portion of the service
Feature Comparison
Ready to dive into a detailed comparison of ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN?
We will explore 9 key features to help you pick the best vpn for your needs.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | AuraVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.44/month | $10/month |
| Free Trial | ✅ 7 days (mobile) | ✅ 14 days |
| Server Network | ✅ 3,000+ in 105 countries | ❌ 100+ virtual locations |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ❌ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Identity Theft Protection | ❌ Limited | ✅ Full suite |
| Antivirus | ❌ | ✅ |
| Streaming (Netflix, Disney+) | ✅ | ❌ |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 60 days |
| Best For | Privacy and streaming | Families and identity safety |
1. Server Network and VPN Locations
ExpressVPN: The expressvpn server network spans over 3,000 vpn servers in 105 countries. You can pick any vpn server location from the expressvpn app. This gives you huge flexibility to access content from any region.
AuraVPN: Aura offers 100+ virtual locations through aura’s vpn. But you cannot choose a specific server location. The app picks the nearest server for you automatically.
⚠️ Warning: If you need server locations in specific regions, AuraVPN will disappoint. ExpressVPN continues to lead on server location control.
2. Privacy and Security
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption and ram only server infrastructure. The company has a strict no logs policy verified by 18 independent audits. A dns leak test showed zero leaks during our tests. ExpressVPN never stores connection logs or your browsing history. Every dns leak test we ran came back clean across many vpn server locations.
AuraVPN: Aura also uses military grade encryption to protect your internet connection. It maintains a no logs policy but may temporarily log the ip address during a vpn session. Aura’s vpn focuses on blocking scam and phishing sites rather than deep privacy features. It is a solid layer of added protection for daily browsing on public Wi-Fi.
3. VPN Speeds and Performance
ExpressVPN: The proprietary Lightway vpn protocol delivers fast connection speeds. We measured about 25 percent speed loss on average during our expressvpn review tests. Download speeds and upload speeds stayed solid across most server locations. The open source Lightway code has been audited for security and performance.
AuraVPN: Aura’s vpn is reasonably fast for daily web browsing. However, it is not optimized for streaming or torrenting workloads. Aura describes its vpn protocols as a decent all rounder but admits limits on performance. It is fine for email and social media, but power users will feel the speed gap.
4. Streaming Service Support
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN unblocks almost every streaming service. We accessed Netflix regional libraries, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, and Amazon Prime Video. The MediaStreamer feature works on smart tvs, Android tv, and gaming consoles. You can flip between vpn locations in seconds from the expressvpn app. This makes it easy to access content from Japan, Australia, and the UK on the same evening.
AuraVPN: Aura’s vpn does not advertise streaming support as a key selling point. It may unblock some content in vpn locations it supports. But it cannot match ExpressVPN for accessing content across regions. The lack of server selection limits streaming service flexibility.
5. Extra Security Tools
ExpressVPN: The expressvpn subscription bundles Keys password manager, a network lock kill switch, threat manager, and the split tunneling feature. The expressvpn software also offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. You get ad blocker and tracker blocker tools built right into the expressvpn app.
AuraVPN: Aura includes antivirus software, aura’s password manager, and split tunneling. It blocks malicious sites in real time. But aura’s vpn does not include browser extensions or a kill switch.
⚠️ Warning: Aura lacks a kill switch. If the vpn connection drops, your real ip address is exposed for a moment.
6. Identity Theft Protection
ExpressVPN: The Advanced and Pro expressvpn subscription options include basic identity monitoring. US customers get ID alerts, identity theft insurance, and a credit scanner. It is helpful but not on the scale of a dedicated identity theft protection service.
AuraVPN: This is where aura shines. You get the full aura’s identity theft protections including dark web scans, credit lock, experian credit file lock, and bank accounts monitoring. Aura alerts users to credit fraud up to 250 times faster than identity guard. It taps into major credit scoring systems to spot changes and gives you the same score you would see in your own annual credit report. Other features include spam list removal and home title monitoring as an add on to your main plan.
7. Customer Support
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s customer support is open 24/7 via live chat and email. Most replies come in just a few minutes. Expressvpn’s app and website also have a huge knowledge base with setup guides for every platform. The expressvpn faqs page covers most common questions in plain language. This level of care is why confident expressvpn users keep renewing year after year.
AuraVPN: Aura provides phone and chat customer support during US business hours. Identity theft victims get a dedicated US based fraud specialist who walks you through recovery. This hands-on help is one of the unique features most top vpn providers do not offer. Aura helps you freeze credit and file police reports if needed.
8. Password Manager
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN Keys ships with every Advanced and Pro expressvpn subscription. It saves logins, generates strong passwords, and syncs across devices. It is a solid entry in the password manager market.
AuraVPN: Aura’s password manager is tied to identity protection. It alerts you if any of your online accounts appear in data breaches. Aura’s password manager uses military grade encryption to store logins securely.
9. Device Support
ExpressVPN: The expressvpn app supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Android tv, smart tvs, routers, and gaming consoles. You get 10 unlimited simultaneous connections on Basic and up to 14 unlimited device connections on Pro.
AuraVPN: Aura supports up to 10 devices per user on individual plans. The family plan covers up to 50 devices across 5 adults. Aura works on every major operating system.
Pricing and Cost
Let’s compare expressvpn deals and aura plans side by side.
| Plan Level | ExpressVPN | AuraVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Plan | Basic: $2.44/month | Kids: $10/month |
| Mid Plan | Advanced: $3.14/month | Individual: $12/month |
| Top Plan | Pro: $5.24/month | Couple: $22/month |
| Family Plan | Not offered | Family: $32/month |
| Money-Back | 30 days | 60 days |
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s Basic plan at $2.44 per month is the best vpn deal for privacy. Even the Pro tier at $5.24 undercuts aura by a lot. You pay only for what you need.
AuraVPN: Aura plans cost more but bundle identity theft protection and antivirus. If you would pay for those services anyway, aura can save money overall. For vpn only use, aura is not the best value.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | ExpressVPN | 75% cheaper monthly |
| Streaming Netflix and Disney Plus | ExpressVPN | Unblocks all major streaming service platforms |
| Identity theft protection | AuraVPN | $1 million identity theft protection service |
| Family protection | AuraVPN | Family plan covers 5 adults plus kids |
| Fast speeds for gaming | ExpressVPN | Lightway vpn protocol delivers fast vpn speeds |
| Bundled antivirus | AuraVPN | Aura antivirus blocks most malware |
| Server location control | ExpressVPN | Pick any of 105 vpn locations |
💰 Your Budget
ExpressVPN starts at $2.44 per month on a 2 year plan. AuraVPN starts at $10 per month for kids and $12 for adults.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Pick ExpressVPN if you use many devices and want browser extensions. Pick AuraVPN if you want one app that covers vpn plus identity protection in one place.
📝 Your Privacy Priorities
ExpressVPN wins on deep privacy and security with a verified no logs policy. AuraVPN wins on identity protection services for families and seniors.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both apps are easy to use for beginners. ExpressVPN adds more power user features like split tunneling and dns leak protection.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Aura gives you a 14 day free trial on every plan, which is longer than most. ExpressVPN offers a 7 day free trial on iOS devices and Android.
🛟 Support Options
ExpressVPN’s customer support runs 24/7 with live chat. Aura offers US fraud specialists if your identity is stolen.
🔐 Data Privacy and Security
ExpressVPN leads on added protection with ram only servers and open source Lightway protocol. AuraVPN adds layered protection from identity thieves with added protection from data brokers.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here is what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to AuraVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- $1 million identity theft insurance and credit monitoring across 3 bureaus
- Family plans with parental controls, screen time limits, and safe gaming
- Dedicated US fraud specialist if you become a victim of identity theft
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Access to 3,000+ expressvpn servers across 105 vpn server locations
- Network lock kill switch, dedicated ip addresses, and advanced dns leak protection
- Strong streaming support for Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney Plus
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your expressvpn subscription and save your Keys password manager vault
- Sign up for an aura plan that fits your household size
- Install aura on your devices and import passwords into aura’s password manager
🔄 Switching from AuraVPN to ExpressVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Much bigger server network with 3,000+ vpn servers in 105 countries
- Faster download speeds and upload speeds with the Lightway vpn protocol
- Full streaming access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, and other streaming service libraries
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Aura’s identity theft protection service with $1 million insurance
- Credit lock on your experian credit file and bank accounts monitoring
- Data broker removal and home title monitoring features
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your aura plan and export passwords from aura’s password manager
- Pick an expressvpn subscription and claim the 30 day money back guarantee
- Install the expressvpn software and import your passwords into ExpressVPN Keys
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | ExpressVPN |
| 🌐 Server Network | ExpressVPN |
| ⚡ Speed and Performance | ExpressVPN |
| 🎬 Streaming Support | ExpressVPN |
| 🔒 Privacy and Security | ExpressVPN |
| 🛡️ Identity Theft Protection | AuraVPN |
| 👨👩👧 Family Protection | AuraVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | ExpressVPN |
🏆 WINNER: EXPRESSVPN
ExpressVPN wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Privacy and security, streaming service access, fast connection speeds, and unlimited device connections.
ExpressVPN and AuraVPN are two very different products.
ExpressVPN is a premium vpn service focused on privacy and speed.
It is one of the biggest vpn providers with full dns leak protection and strong leak protection.
AuraVPN is an all in one bundle that pairs a basic vpn with identity theft protection services.
AuraVPN is excellent for families who want identity protection and antivirus in one place.
However, if you need a real virtual private network with fast vpn speeds and a huge server network, ExpressVPN is the better choice.
Most users will save money and get better privacy with ExpressVPN.
The 30 day money back guarantee gives you time to try ExpressVPN with zero risk.
Now go out and take control of your online privacy and online activity.
More of ExpressVPN Compared
Here is how expressvpn stacks up against other top vpn providers:
ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Audited no logs policy, easier vpn app
NordVPN wins on: Lower renewal price, double VPN feature
ExpressVPN vs PureVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster vpn speeds, better customer support
PureVPN wins on: Cheaper long term plans, more server locations in some regions
ExpressVPN vs SurfsharkVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Larger server network, better streaming unblocking
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited simultaneous connections, cheaper price
ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: More server locations, faster download speeds
Proton VPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss privacy jurisdiction
ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: More servers, better streaming and gaming support
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free 10 GB plan, lower entry price
ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Bigger server network, full streaming support
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking built in, lower price
ExpressVPN vs Virtual Shield
ExpressVPN wins on: Audited no logs policy, faster vpn speeds
Virtual Shield wins on: Simple setup, easy beginner focus
ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: More servers in 105 countries, better streaming
StrongVPN wins on: Cheaper annual plan, good for basic vpn use
ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Verified no logs policy, better apps and support
FastestVPN wins on: Very low lifetime price, 10 simultaneous connections
ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster speeds, better audits and privacy track record
CyberGhost wins on: Cheaper long plans, dedicated streaming servers
ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Standalone vpn service, much wider server network
McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled with McAfee antivirus software
ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access
ExpressVPN wins on: Easier apps, better streaming unblocking
Private Internet Access wins on: Lower price, unlimited device connections
ExpressVPN vs Mysterium
ExpressVPN wins on: Reliable server infrastructure, 24/7 customer support
Mysterium wins on: Pay as you go pricing, decentralized network
ExpressVPN wins on: Huge server network, audited privacy policy
SafeShell VPN wins on: Niche streaming focus, simpler pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: More trusted brand, far more server locations
Oyster VPN wins on: Cheap short term plans, light on system resources
More of AuraVPN Compared
Here is how AuraVPN stacks up against other competitors:
AuraVPN vs NordVPN
AuraVPN wins on: Bundled identity theft protection service, $1 million insurance
NordVPN wins on: Much bigger server network, specialty vpn servers
AuraVPN vs PureVPN
AuraVPN wins on: Credit monitoring, antivirus software, family plans
PureVPN wins on: Dedicated vpn features, port forwarding, lower price
AuraVPN vs SurfsharkVPN
AuraVPN wins on: Identity monitoring, dark web scans, parental controls
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Real vpn service with more server locations, faster speeds
AuraVPN vs ProtonVPN
AuraVPN wins on: US fraud specialist support, credit lock features
ProtonVPN wins on: Open source vpn, free plan, stronger privacy focus
AuraVPN vs PrivadoVPN
AuraVPN wins on: Full safety bundle with identity protection
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, lower entry price, streaming support
AuraVPN vs CyberGhost
AuraVPN wins on: Identity theft protection service and aura antivirus
CyberGhost wins on: Real vpn service with more servers, cheaper long plan
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downside of ExpressVPN?
The main downside is the price at renewal time. ExpressVPN is more expensive than cheaper vpn companies like private internet access or Surfshark. Also, expressvpn subscription options do not include dedicated ip addresses on the Basic tier. Your internet service provider cannot see your traffic while you use the app.
How much does ExpressVPN cost?
ExpressVPN starts at $2.44 per month on a 2 year Basic plan. The Advanced expressvpn subscription is $3.14 per month, and the Pro plan is $5.24 per month. A 30 day money back guarantee covers every expressvpn deal.
Is Aura VPN safe?
Yes, aura’s vpn is safe to use and protects your internet connection with military grade encryption. It blocks malicious websites, dangerous sites, and scam attempts in real time protection mode. However, aura’s vpn does not include a kill switch, which some users consider a safety gap. For heavy privacy needs, a dedicated vpn provider is a better pick.
Is Aura worth it for identity theft protection?
If you want identity theft insurance, credit monitoring, and antivirus software in one bundle, aura worth the price. Aura’s identity theft protections cover $1 million in legal fees and eligible losses. Aura watches your financial accounts for risky financial transactions and alerts you fast. The 60 day money back guarantee and 14 day free trial let you test aura risk free.
Which is the best VPN for streaming, ExpressVPN or AuraVPN?
ExpressVPN is the best vpn for streaming by a wide margin. It unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney Plus across all major streaming service platforms. The expressvpn app works on smart tvs, Android tv, iOS devices, and routers. Aura’s vpn is not optimized for streaming and cannot access content as reliably. If streaming is your top priority, ExpressVPN is the clear winner.
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