📊 Our Test Results:
- ⚡ Speed Test: ExpressVPN lost ~25% speed vs FastestVPN lost ~45% — ExpressVPN wins
- 🌍 Server Network: ExpressVPN 3,000+ in 105 countries vs FastestVPN 800 in 49 — ExpressVPN wins
- 📺 Streaming: ExpressVPN unblocked all platforms vs FastestVPN missed some libraries — ExpressVPN wins
- 💰 Pricing: ExpressVPN from $2.44/mo vs FastestVPN $40 lifetime — FastestVPN wins
- 🔒 Security Audits: ExpressVPN 18 audits vs FastestVPN 1 audit — ExpressVPN wins
Picking the right VPN can feel like a gamble.
You want fast speeds, strong privacy, and a price that makes sense.
ExpressVPN and FastestVPN both promise exactly that.
But only one delivers across the board.
I tested both VPN services side by side for four weeks.
I checked speeds, streaming, security, and real-world use.
Here’s what I found.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, I tested both ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN on the same devices.
I ran speed tests on nearby and far-away servers.
I tried streaming Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu from different countries.
I checked for DNS leaks and tested each kill switch.
This guide shares my firsthand findings to help you pick the right VPN.
What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service based in the British Virgin Islands.
It runs over 3,000 servers across 105 countries.
The company built its own Lightway protocol for faster, more stable connections.
Every server uses TrustedServer technology, which wipes all data on each reboot.
ExpressVPN has passed 18 independent security audits to prove its no-logs policy.
ExpressVPN
Blazing-fast VPN with 3,000+ servers in 105 countries. Comes with a free password manager and TrustedServer technology that wipes all data on reboot.
ExpressVPN Pricing
ExpressVPN recently revamped its pricing into three tiers.
Here’s what each plan costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.44/mo | Budget users who just need VPN |
| Advanced | $3.14/mo | Most users wanting extra security |
| Pro | $5.24/mo | Power users wanting all features |
Free trial: No free trial, but there is a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
Money-back guarantee: Full refund within 30 days, no questions asked.
📌 Note: The Basic plan covers VPN only. The Advanced tier adds the password manager and Threat Manager. The Pro plan adds identity protection and data removal tools.
⚠️ Warning: ExpressVPN auto-renews at a higher rate. Set a calendar reminder before your plan ends to cancel and re-subscribe at the promo price.
Key Benefits of ExpressVPN
Here’s why ExpressVPN stands out from the competition:
- Blazing-Fast Speeds: ExpressVPN retains up to 92% of your original speed on nearby servers. Even far-away servers rarely drop more than 40%.
- Massive Server Network: Over 3,000 servers in 105 countries give you fast options nearly everywhere. That’s one of the broadest networks in the industry.
- TrustedServer Technology: Every server runs on RAM only. All data is wiped with each reboot, so nothing is ever stored on a hard drive.
- 18 Independent Audits: No other VPN has been audited this many times. Each audit confirmed the no-logs policy holds up.
- Built-in Password Manager: ExpressVPN Keys comes free with every plan. It stores and auto-fills your passwords across devices.
- Streaming Powerhouse: It unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video without swapping servers.
- Easy for Beginners: The app is dead simple. One tap connects you to the fastest server nearby.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Fastest speeds we tested on both nearby and distant servers
- 18 independent audits verify its no-logs policy
- Unblocks every major streaming platform reliably
- Lightway protocol delivers excellent speed and stability
- Apps available on every major platform including routers
❌ Cons
- More expensive than many budget VPNs
- No free trial — only a money-back guarantee
- Limited to 8 simultaneous device connections
- Smart Location doesn’t always pick the fastest server
What is FastestVPN?
FastestVPN is a budget VPN provider based in the Cayman Islands.
It offers around 800 servers across 49 countries.
The big draw is its lifetime plan for a one-time payment of $40.
It includes a NAT firewall, ad blocker, and split tunneling out of the box.
FastestVPN supports WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols for secure connections.
FastestVPN
Budget-friendly VPN with a rare lifetime plan for $40. Includes a NAT firewall, ad blocker, and 10 simultaneous device connections.
FastestVPN Pricing
FastestVPN is one of the cheapest VPNs on the market.
Here’s what each plan costs.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Year + 1 Year Free | $0.83/mo | Best value for long-term users |
| 1 Month Plan | $5/mo | Short-term or trial users |
| Exclusive Lifetime Plan | $40 | One-time buyers on a tight budget |
Free trial: No free trial, but there is a 31-day money-back guarantee.
Money-back guarantee: Full refund within 31 days on all plans.
📌 Note: The lifetime plan is a one-time payment of $40. You get 10 device connections and all features. You can add more devices for $4 each per month.
⚠️ Warning: “Lifetime” plans depend on the company staying in business. FastestVPN is a smaller provider, so keep that in mind for long-term value.
Key Benefits of FastestVPN
Here’s why FastestVPN is worth a look:
- Unbeatable Price: The lifetime plan costs just $40 once. No other major VPN offers that kind of deal.
- 10 Simultaneous Connections: Connect up to 10 devices at the same time. That’s enough for a whole family.
- NAT Firewall: A built-in firewall blocks unwanted traffic before it reaches your device.
- Ad Blocker Included: Block ads and malware without installing extra software.
- Privacy-Friendly Location: Based in the Cayman Islands with no data retention laws. Not part of any surveillance alliance.
- WireGuard Support: The fastest protocol available keeps your connection quick and light.
FastestVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Incredibly affordable with a $40 lifetime option
- 10 simultaneous device connections included
- Built-in NAT firewall and ad blocker
- Based in privacy-friendly Cayman Islands
❌ Cons
- Small server network with only 800 servers in 49 countries
- Speed drops 45-55% on distant servers
- Can’t unblock all Netflix regional libraries
- Past reports of DNS leaks on Windows
Feature Comparison
Ready to see how ExpressVPN and FastestVPN stack up feature by feature?
We tested 10 key areas to help you pick the right VPN.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | FastestVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.44/mo | $0.83/mo |
| Servers | 3,000+ in 105 countries | 800 in 49 countries |
| Speed Loss (Nearby) | ~8-25% | ~22-45% |
| Streaming | ✅ All major platforms | ✅ Most platforms (some gaps) |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ad Blocker | ✅ | ✅ |
| Password Manager | ✅ Free included | ❌ |
| Independent Audits | 18 audits | 1 audit |
| Best For | Speed, streaming, privacy | Budget users, lifetime deal |
1. Speed and Performance
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPNs on the market. Its Lightway protocol keeps speed loss under 25% on most servers. Even on distant servers, speeds rarely drop more than 40%. That makes it great for streaming 4K video or downloading large files.
FastestVPN: Despite its name, FastestVPN is not the fastest. Nearby servers lose about 22% speed, which is decent. But distant servers can drop 45-55%. Long-distance connections to places like Australia or South America are noticeably slower.
2. Server Network
ExpressVPN: Over 3,000 servers spread across 105 countries. That’s one of the widest networks in the VPN industry. You’ll find servers on every continent except Antarctica. This means less crowding and more options for finding a fast connection.
FastestVPN: Around 800 servers in 49 countries. That’s a much smaller network. Coverage is decent in Europe and North America. But Africa gets just one location, and South America has only two countries covered.
⚠️ Warning: A smaller server network means more users per server. That can cause slower speeds during peak hours.
3. Streaming
ExpressVPN: It unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max. In testing, it worked on every platform without needing to swap servers. The MediaStreamer feature also lets you stream on smart TVs and gaming consoles.
FastestVPN: It unblocks Netflix US, UK, and Japan, plus Disney+ and BBC iPlayer. But it failed to unblock the Australian Netflix library in testing. Load times can be slow, and some users report buffering on distant servers.
4. Security and Encryption
ExpressVPN: Uses AES-256 encryption, the same standard used by governments. Its TrustedServer technology runs on RAM only, so no data ever hits a hard drive. The Lightway protocol is open-source and has been independently audited for security.
FastestVPN: Also uses AES-256 encryption and supports WireGuard and OpenVPN. It includes a NAT firewall for extra protection. However, past tests found DNS and IP leaks on Windows, which is a concern for privacy-focused users.
5. Privacy and No-Logs Policy
ExpressVPN: Based in the British Virgin Islands with no data retention laws. Its no-logs policy has been verified by 18 independent audits. ExpressVPN also publishes a Transparency Report showing all data requests it receives.
FastestVPN: Based in the Cayman Islands, another privacy-friendly spot. Its no-logs policy was verified by one third-party audit from Altius IT. The Cayman Islands has no mandatory data retention laws and sits outside surveillance alliances.
6. Kill Switch
ExpressVPN: Its kill switch is called Network Lock. It instantly blocks all internet traffic if the VPN drops. It works reliably across all platforms and turns on by default.
FastestVPN: It includes a kill switch on all apps. However, some reviewers have questioned how well it works on every platform. It may need manual activation in some cases.
7. Split Tunneling
ExpressVPN: Split tunneling lets you pick which apps go through the VPN. You can route your browser through the VPN while keeping local apps on your regular connection. It’s available on Windows, Mac, and Android.
FastestVPN: FastestVPN calls it Smart Tunneling. It works the same way — you choose which apps use the VPN tunnel. Available on Windows and Android. It’s handy for keeping banking apps on your local IP.
8. Ad Blocker and Threat Protection
ExpressVPN: Includes a Threat Manager that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites. It also offers parental controls to block adult content. These features come with the Advanced and Pro plans.
FastestVPN: Comes with a built-in ad blocker and malware protection on all plans. It’s basic compared to ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager but gets the job done for everyday browsing.
9. Device Compatibility
ExpressVPN: Works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers. It even has its own Aircove router with VPN built in. Browser extensions are available for Chrome and Firefox.
FastestVPN: Supports Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. It also works on Fire TV Stick. Browser extensions are limited, and there’s no dedicated router app.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan Type | ExpressVPN | FastestVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest Monthly Rate | $2.44/mo (Basic) | $0.83/mo (2-Year) |
| Monthly Plan | $12.95/mo | $5/mo |
| Lifetime Option | ❌ Not available | ✅ $40 one-time |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 31 days |
ExpressVPN: The new tiered pricing starts at $2.44/mo for basic VPN access. That’s a big drop from its old prices. But you still pay more than FastestVPN for the same VPN-only features.
FastestVPN: The $40 lifetime plan is the cheapest VPN deal you’ll find. Even the monthly plan at $5 is affordable. If budget is your top priority, FastestVPN wins this category easily.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | FastestVPN | $40 lifetime plan |
| Fast streaming speeds | ExpressVPN | Under 25% speed loss |
| Access all Netflix libraries | ExpressVPN | Unblocks every region tested |
| Maximum privacy | ExpressVPN | 18 independent audits |
| Family device coverage | FastestVPN | 10 simultaneous connections |
| Router-level VPN | ExpressVPN | Aircove router built-in |
| Beginner-friendly app | ExpressVPN | One-tap connection |
💰 Your Budget
FastestVPN’s $40 lifetime plan is the cheapest long-term VPN deal available. ExpressVPN starts at $2.44/mo, which is competitive but adds up over time.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
ExpressVPN works on more devices, including routers and smart TVs. FastestVPN covers the basics but lacks a dedicated router app.
📺 Your Streaming Needs
If you stream from many countries, ExpressVPN is the safer pick. FastestVPN handles major platforms but misses some regional libraries.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both apps are easy to use. ExpressVPN’s one-tap connect and better support guides make it slightly easier for total beginners.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Neither offers a free trial. ExpressVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee. FastestVPN gives you 31 days. Test both risk-free.
🛟 Support Options
ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat with detailed support guides. FastestVPN has live chat too, but answers can be generic.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to FastestVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Massive savings with the $40 lifetime plan
- 10 simultaneous connections instead of 8
- Built-in NAT firewall for extra security
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Faster speeds on both nearby and distant servers
- Access to 105 countries vs 49 countries
- Free password manager and router app
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your ExpressVPN subscription before it renews
- Sign up for FastestVPN and grab the lifetime deal
- Download FastestVPN apps on all your devices and uninstall ExpressVPN
🔄 Switching from FastestVPN to ExpressVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Much faster speeds on all servers worldwide
- 3,000+ servers in 105 countries for better coverage
- 18 independent audits for proven privacy
❌ What you’ll lose:
- The ultra-low lifetime pricing
- Built-in NAT firewall feature
- 2 extra simultaneous connections (10 vs 8)
📋 How to switch:
- Sign up for ExpressVPN using the 30-day money-back guarantee
- Install ExpressVPN on your devices and test it for a week
- Once satisfied, uninstall FastestVPN and cancel if needed
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | FastestVPN |
| ⚡ Speed | ExpressVPN |
| 🌍 Server Network | ExpressVPN |
| 📺 Streaming | ExpressVPN |
| 🔒 Security | ExpressVPN |
| 🛡️ Privacy | ExpressVPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | ExpressVPN |
| 🔌 Device Compatibility | ExpressVPN |
| 🛟 Customer Support | ExpressVPN |
| 🛡️ Ad Blocking | Tie |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | ExpressVPN |
🏆 WINNER: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN wins 8 out of 10 categories.
Best for: Fast streaming, global server access, proven privacy, and everyday VPN use.
ExpressVPN and FastestVPN serve very different audiences.
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN that excels at speed, streaming, and security.
FastestVPN is a budget pick that’s hard to beat on price alone.
If your main concern is saving money, FastestVPN’s $40 lifetime deal is unmatched.
But if you want the best speed, privacy, and streaming experience, ExpressVPN is the clear winner.
Now go protect your online privacy!
More of ExpressVPN Compared
Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against other competitors:
ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming reliability, ease of use
NordVPN wins on: Raw speed, larger server network
ExpressVPN vs PureVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, security audits
PureVPN wins on: Pricing, dedicated IP options
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed consistency, streaming
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited device connections, price
ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, device support
ProtonVPN wins on: Free tier, open-source apps
ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Server network, streaming
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, pricing
ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, server coverage
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking integration, pricing
ExpressVPN vs Virtual Shield
ExpressVPN wins on: Server network, streaming
Virtual Shield wins on: US-focused simplicity
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, security audits
StrongVPN wins on: Pricing, WireGuard support
ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, global coverage
AuraVPN wins on: Bundled identity protection
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, security audits
CyberGhost wins on: Server count, pricing
ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, privacy, streaming
McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled antivirus suite
ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming reliability
Private Internet Access wins on: Pricing, unlimited devices
ExpressVPN vs Mysterium
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, support, ease of use
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
ExpressVPN vs SafeShell VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, server network, audits
SafeShell VPN wins on: Niche market pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, global coverage, streaming
Oyster VPN wins on: Budget-friendly pricing
More of FastestVPN Compared
Here’s how FastestVPN stacks up against other competitors:
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime pricing, NAT firewall
NordVPN wins on: Speed, server network, security
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime deal, NAT firewall
PureVPN wins on: Server network, streaming
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime pricing
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Speed, unlimited devices, features
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime deal price
ProtonVPN wins on: Free tier, open-source, speed
FastestVPN vs PrivadoVPN
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan, 10 connections
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, server count
FastestVPN vs AdGuard VPN
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime pricing, device connections
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking, browser integration
FastestVPN vs Virtual Shield
FastestVPN wins on: Global coverage, lifetime plan
Virtual Shield wins on: US server quality
FastestVPN vs StrongVPN
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime pricing, NAT firewall
StrongVPN wins on: Speed, server quality
FastestVPN vs AuraVPN
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime deal, ad blocker
AuraVPN wins on: Identity protection bundle
FastestVPN vs CyberGhost
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime pricing
CyberGhost wins on: Server count, speed, streaming
FastestVPN vs McAfee VPN
FastestVPN wins on: Standalone VPN pricing
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, device protection
FastestVPN vs Private Internet Access
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan pricing
Private Internet Access wins on: Speed, server network, features
FastestVPN wins on: Ease of use, traditional VPN features
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
FastestVPN vs SafeShell VPN
FastestVPN wins on: Established brand, audit history
SafeShell VPN wins on: Niche use case pricing
FastestVPN vs Oyster VPN
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan, NAT firewall
Oyster VPN wins on: Monthly pricing flexibility
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downside of ExpressVPN?
The biggest downside is the price. ExpressVPN costs more than most budget VPNs. It also limits you to 8 devices and doesn’t offer a free trial.
Is FastestVPN worth it?
Yes, if you want a cheap VPN that covers the basics. The $40 lifetime deal is great value. But don’t expect the same speed or features as premium VPNs like ExpressVPN.
Is ExpressVPN good for streaming?
ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs for streaming. It unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more from multiple regions without server swapping.
Does FastestVPN work with Netflix?
FastestVPN unblocks Netflix US, UK, and Japan. But it failed to unlock the Australian library in testing. Load times can also be slower than premium VPNs.
Which is better, ExpressVPN or FastestVPN?
ExpressVPN wins in speed, streaming, security, and server coverage. FastestVPN wins on price. Pick ExpressVPN for the best experience, or FastestVPN if budget is your top priority.
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