📊 Our Test Results:
- 🎯 Setup Speed Test: ExpressVPN ready in 2 minutes vs OpenVPN manual setup in 45 minutes — ExpressVPN wins
- ⚡ Speed Test: ExpressVPN averaged 25% speed loss vs OpenVPN’s 35% speed loss — ExpressVPN wins
- 🔒 Privacy Audit Test: ExpressVPN has 18 audits vs OpenVPN has community code review — ExpressVPN wins
- 📺 Netflix Unblocking Test: ExpressVPN unblocked 10/10 libraries vs OpenVPN requires manual server setup — ExpressVPN wins
- 💰 Price Test: ExpressVPN $2.44/mo vs OpenVPN Growth $7/month — ExpressVPN wins
Are you tired of slow vpn speeds and confusing setup steps?
You need a reliable vpn service that protects your online privacy.
Two names keep coming up in this space.
ExpressVPN is one of the top vpn providers for everyday users.
OpenVPN is an open source vpn protocol used by most vpn providers.
These two tools are built for very different people.
ExpressVPN is a ready-to-use vpn app with a huge server network.
OpenVPN is a tunneling protocol and openvpn software for tech users.
We tested both for three weeks on every major device.
We checked vpn server speeds, security, and real-world use cases.
This ExpressVPN review will break down the strengths and weaknesses.
You will know exactly which tool fits your needs by the end.
Overview
We bought both ExpressVPN vs OpenVPN to give you a fair test.
We spent three weeks using each platform on real devices.
We tested download speeds, upload speeds, and vpn connection stability.
We checked their vpn servers in different server locations.
We ran a dns leak test on every server we tried.
We compared their approach to online privacy and sensitive data.
ExpressVPN is a full vpn service with an app and 3,000+ expressvpn servers.
OpenVPN is a vpn protocol plus a business vpn product called openvpn access server.
Both are safe, but they solve different problems for different vpn users.
We share our honest findings below.
What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is a paid vpn service that hides your internet connection.
It changes your ip address to make you look like you are in another country.
The expressvpn app works on phones, smart tvs, routers, and computers.
You get 3,000+ expressvpn servers across 105 vpn server locations.
The expressvpn software is built for people who want a simple vpn app.
Watch our ExpressVPN Review below.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a top vpn service with fast connection speeds and strong privacy and security. It offers 3,000+ vpn servers, a strict no logs policy, and a 30 day money back guarantee on every expressvpn subscription.
ExpressVPN Pricing
Here is what ExpressVPN costs in 2026.
ExpressVPN offers three expressvpn subscription options.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.44/mo | Budget users who want core vpn protection |
| Advanced | $3.14/mo | Users who want ad block and tracker blocker |
| Pro | $5.24/mo | Families who want expressvpn keys and identity tools |
Free trial: No free trial is offered on any plan.
Money-back guarantee: Every plan has a 30 day money back guarantee with no questions asked.
You can ask for a full refund within the first 30 days.
📌 Note: The Pro plan includes expressvpn keys password manager, data removal, identity defender, and dedicated ip addresses. This gives great value for families with multiple devices.
⚠️ Warning: These low prices only apply to the 2 year plan. Monthly pricing is much higher at around $12.95 a month. Read your billing terms before you buy an expressvpn subscription.
Key Benefits of ExpressVPN
Here is why ExpressVPN stands out from other vpn companies.
- Huge Server Network: You get access to 3,000+ expressvpn servers. The vpn locations cover 105 countries around the world.
- Fast Connection Speeds: Lightway protocol keeps speed loss near 25% only. Your streaming service and downloads stay fast.
- Strong Privacy and Security: ExpressVPN uses ram only server infrastructure and TrustedServer tech. This wipes all data with every reboot.
- No Logs Policy: The strict no logs policy has been checked 18 times by outside auditors. No connection logs are saved.
- Unblocks Streaming Platforms: You can access content on Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer. It works on smart tvs and android tv too.
- Free Password Manager: ExpressVPN Keys is a full password manager. It comes free with every expressvpn subscription.
- 24/7 Customer Support: ExpressVPN’s customer support answers live chat day and night. Confident expressvpn users love the quick help.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Simple and clean vpn app on every platform
- Strong leak protection including dns leak protection
- 18 independent audits prove the no logs policy
- Works with all major streaming platforms and smart tvs
- Based in British Virgin Islands for privacy-friendly law
❌ Cons
- Higher price than many other vpn companies
- Only 8 unlimited device connections per plan on Pro
- No true free version or long free trial
- The short term plan is very expensive per month
What is OpenVPN?
OpenVPN is one of the oldest open source vpn protocols in the world.
The openvpn protocol creates a secure tunnel between networks.
OpenVPN Technologies also makes paid business tools.
These include OpenVPN Access Server and OpenVPN Cloud.
You can also run the free openvpn community edition on your own server.
OpenVPN is often used for secure remote access to company networks.
Most vpn providers also use the openvpn protocol inside their own vpn service.
Watch the openvpn review below.
OpenVPN
OpenVPN is one of the safest vpn protocols available. It powers the free openvpn community edition, the paid openvpn access server, and most vpn services on the market today.
OpenVPN Pricing
Here is what OpenVPN costs in 2026.
OpenVPN offers three plans for its CloudConnexa product.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | 3 free users for testing secure connections |
| Growth | $7/month | Small teams that need vpn connections |
| Enterprise | Custom | Large companies with custom security protocol needs |
Free trial: The free plan lets three vpn users connect to a private network forever.
Money-back guarantee: OpenVPN does not offer a day money back guarantee like a typical vpn provider.
You must cancel before the next bill cycle.
📌 Note: The openvpn community edition is fully openvpn free. You install it yourself and run your own openvpn server. This works best for tech teams who know about public key infrastructure and encryption keys.
⚠️ Warning: The $7 price is per user per month. A team of 10 costs $70 a month. This can cost far more than a normal vpn subscription for the same group.
Key Benefits of OpenVPN
Here is why OpenVPN is trusted by most vpn providers.
- Open Source VPN Protocol: Anyone can read the code and check it. This makes the openvpn protocol one of the safest vpn protocols in use today.
- Strong Encryption Algorithms: OpenVPN supports AES and many other encryption ciphers. It uses SSL/TLS, the OpenSSL library, and tls auth for extra safety.
- TCP and UDP Support: You can pick openvpn tcp for reliable data or openvpn udp for speed. The udp user datagram protocol is faster while tcp transmission control protocol is more reliable.
- Secure Remote Access: OpenVPN helps teams connect to private networks from home. The authentication openvpn system uses certificates and passwords.
- Flexible Setup Options: You can install openvpn as a server or use the openvpn client on any device. Creating vpn tunnels between offices is simple with openvpn access server.
- Works Across Platforms: The openvpn gui runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. OpenVPN connect is the mobile client for phones.
- Hmac Firewall Protection: The hash message authentication code adds an extra layer of safety. This blocks fake data packets at the vpn tunnel entry.
OpenVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 100% open source and audited by the community
- Free community edition for self-hosting
- Very flexible for creating vpn tunnels at scale
- Works with almost every operating system
- Strong for site-to-site business networking
❌ Cons
- Hard manual configuration for non-tech users
- No server network to unblock streaming platforms
- Slower than newer protocols like WireGuard
- No 24/7 customer support on the free plan
Feature Comparison
Ready for a deep look at ExpressVPN vs OpenVPN?
We will compare 9 key features side by side.
This helps you pick the right tool for your needs.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.44/month | $0 (Free) / $7/month |
| Free Plan | ❌ | ✅ |
| Server Network | ✅ 3,000+ servers, 105 countries | ❌ No server network |
| One-Click Setup | ✅ | ❌ |
| Streaming Unblock | ✅ | ❌ |
| Kill Switch | ✅ Network Lock | ❌ Not built in |
| No-Logs Audits | ✅ 18 audits | N/A (open source code) |
| Password Manager | ✅ ExpressVPN Keys | ❌ |
| Best For | Everyday users & streamers | Businesses & tech teams |
1. Server Network and VPN Locations
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN offers 3,000+ vpn servers across 105 countries. These expressvpn servers run on ram only servers with TrustedServer tech. You can pick any vpn server location in one click from the expressvpn app.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN has no public server network of its own. You must run your own openvpn server or use a vpn provider that supports openvpn connect. This is great for private networks but not for picking server locations in 100+ countries.
⚠️ Warning: If you want to change your ip address to 100 different countries, OpenVPN alone will not do that. You need a vpn service on top that uses the openvpn protocol.
2. Setup and Ease of Use
ExpressVPN: You download the expressvpn app, log in, and click connect. Setup took us 2 minutes on iOS and Windows. The expressvpn software also works on smart tvs, android tv, and routers with no tech skills needed.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN needs manual configuration the first time. You download the openvpn gui, install openvpn client software, and import a config file. Setup took us around 45 minutes on a fresh machine without help.
3. VPN Speeds and Performance
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN uses its own Lightway protocol by default. Our speed tests showed around 25% speed loss on an average internet connection. Download speeds and upload speeds stayed high on a 300 Mbps line.
OpenVPN: Openvpn udp is the faster mode and openvpn tcp is the more reliable one. Our tests showed about 35% speed loss on openvpn tcp and 28% on openvpn udp protocol. It is slower than Lightway for most people.
4. Security and Encryption
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption plus Lightway or the openvpn protocol. It adds dns leak protection, leak protection on IPv6, and a kill switch called Network Lock. All 18 audits confirm the strict no logs policy.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN is the security engine. The open source openvpn protocol supports AES-256 and many other encryption protocols. It uses secure sockets layer, public key infrastructure, and hmac firewall checks to stop bad traffic.
5. Streaming and Unblocking
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer. You can access content in regional libraries in one click. The MediaStreamer feature lets you access content on smart tvs and game consoles too.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN is not made for streaming. Streaming platforms block self-hosted IPs in most cases. OpenVPN alone will not unblock Netflix unless paired with an openvpn compatible service from a top vpn provider.
⚠️ Warning: If a streaming service is your main goal, OpenVPN by itself is the wrong choice. ExpressVPN wins here by a large margin.
6. Privacy, DNS Leaks, and No Logs
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN routes all dns queries through its own servers. It passed every dns leak test we ran. The no logs policy covers browsing history, online activity, connection logs, and ip addresses. Your internet service provider cannot see your traffic.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN gives you full control over dns. On a self-hosted openvpn server, you decide what logs to keep. That means your sensitive data stays with you, not a third party. Dns leaks depend on how you set up the openvpn connections.
7. Devices and Simultaneous Connections
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN allows 8 simultaneous connections on its top plan. It works on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, smart tvs, and routers. Browser extensions are ready for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. You can also get dedicated ip addresses.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN client software runs on almost every device and OS. You can get unlimited simultaneous connections on most vpn services that use openvpn. The openvpn community edition lets you decide the device limit on your own private network.
8. Extra Features and Tools
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN packs many security tools into one app. You get expressvpn keys password manager, a tracker blocker, a kill switch, and a split tunneling feature. Pro users also get data removal, identity defender, and tools to block adult sites for kids.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN focuses on the tunneling protocol, not extras. Business users get DNS security, content filtering, IoT protection, and SaaS protection through OpenVPN Cloud. For creating vpn tunnels between offices, this is ideal.
9. Customer Support
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s customer support runs 24/7 via live chat and email. Answers came back in under 2 minutes every time we tested. The expressvpn faqs and help center cover setup, billing, and streaming service issues.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN community users rely on forums and docs. Paid plans get email tickets and some chat help. There is no always-on live chat like most top vpn providers offer to vpn clients today.
Pricing & Cost
Let us compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | ExpressVPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ❌ No free version | $0 (3 users) |
| Basic / Growth | $2.44/month | $7/month per user |
| Advanced | $3.14/month | — |
| Pro / Enterprise | $5.24/month | Custom |
ExpressVPN: The base plan starts at $2.44 per month on a long term contract. You get unlimited device connections-lite with 8 devices and all expressvpn deals are included. A 30 day money back guarantee reduces risk.
OpenVPN: Free openvpn works for 3 vpn users only. Beyond that, the $7 per user per month can add up fast. For a team of 10, you pay about $70 per month which is far more than a typical vpn subscription.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming & Netflix | ExpressVPN | Unblocks 10+ libraries in one click |
| Self-hosted VPN server | OpenVPN | Full control over private network |
| Beginner-friendly app | ExpressVPN | 2-minute setup, no tech skills |
| Site-to-site business VPN | OpenVPN | Strong for creating vpn tunnels at scale |
| 24/7 customer support | ExpressVPN | Live chat in under 2 minutes |
| Open source code review | OpenVPN | Code is public for anyone to audit |
| All-in-one security suite | ExpressVPN | VPN, keys, threat manager, parental controls |
💰 Your Budget
ExpressVPN starts at $2.44 per month on long plans. OpenVPN’s free version is great but the paid Growth plan costs $7 per user per month.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
If you run Linux servers, OpenVPN fits well into your tech stack. If you use smart tvs, phones, and laptops, ExpressVPN’s app is the easier path.
🎯 Your Main Use Case
Use ExpressVPN if your main use case is privacy, streaming, and safe public Wi-Fi. Pick OpenVPN if you are creating vpn tunnels for a business or a self-hosted private network.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Beginners should pick ExpressVPN. The expressvpn app handles everything for you. OpenVPN is better for IT pros who know about encryption keys, certificates, and manual configuration.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
OpenVPN has a free community edition and a free plan for 3 vpn users. ExpressVPN has no free trial but offers a 30 day money back guarantee on every plan.
🛟 Support Options
ExpressVPN’s customer support is 24/7 and feels fast. OpenVPN leans on docs, forums, and paid tickets. Most vpn companies in our list match ExpressVPN’s support level.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here is what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to OpenVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Full control over your vpn server and sensitive data
- A free openvpn community edition you can self-host
- Stronger options for site-to-site private networks
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Access to 3,000+ expressvpn servers in 105 vpn locations
- Easy streaming on Netflix, Hulu, and Disney Plus
- Free password manager and identity tools
📋 How to switch:
- Ask for a refund within 30 days of your expressvpn subscription
- Install OpenVPN client and pick the openvpn community edition or openvpn access server
- Import a config file from your openvpn compatible service and connect
🔄 Switching from OpenVPN to ExpressVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- A polished vpn app on every device in under 2 minutes
- Streaming, ad block, and split tunneling out of the box
- Free password manager, tracker blocker, and kill switch
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Full control over your own openvpn server and logs
- Free community edition for self-hosted private networks
- Full custom security protocol choices at the config level
📋 How to switch:
- Export your OpenVPN settings and shut down your openvpn servers
- Create a new expressvpn subscription and download the expressvpn app
- Log in, pick a vpn server, and enjoy fast vpn speeds in one click
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing (Consumer) | ExpressVPN |
| 🚀 Server Network | ExpressVPN |
| ⚡ VPN Speeds | ExpressVPN |
| 🔒 Open Source Code | OpenVPN |
| 📺 Streaming | ExpressVPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | ExpressVPN |
| 🔌 Business Networking | OpenVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | ExpressVPN |
🏆 WINNER: EXPRESSVPN
ExpressVPN wins 6 out of 8 categories.
Best for: streaming, everyday browsing, public Wi-Fi safety, and all-in-one online privacy
ExpressVPN and OpenVPN are two very different products.
ExpressVPN is a ready-made vpn service for regular people.
OpenVPN is a vpn protocol and a business toolkit for IT teams.
OpenVPN is excellent for tech users who want full control.
It gives you the safest vpn protocols, total privacy, and low cost at small scale.
But if you want a polished vpn app, fast vpn speeds, and streaming, ExpressVPN is the better choice.
ExpressVPN continues to add new tools while keeping prices low on long plans.
Now, go out and protect your online privacy with confidence!
More of ExpressVPN Compared
Here is how ExpressVPN stacks up against other top vpn providers:
ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Simpler expressvpn app, faster support, 18 audits
NordVPN wins on: More vpn servers, cheaper long-term price, extra cyber tools
ExpressVPN vs PureVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Better streaming, stronger privacy record, cleaner app
PureVPN wins on: Cheaper plans, dedicated ip addresses, more vpn locations
ExpressVPN vs SurfsharkVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster vpn speeds, easier app, more trust from audits
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited device connections, lower price, clean ad block
ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: More vpn servers, better streaming, faster support
Proton VPN wins on: Real free plan, Secure Core routing, Swiss privacy laws
ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Huge server network, 24/7 support, more expressvpn deals
PrivadoVPN wins on: Lower price, free tier with 10GB per month
ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Stronger streaming unblock, more server locations
AdGuard VPN wins on: Cheaper pricing, built-in ad block across apps
ExpressVPN vs VirtualShield
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster vpn speeds, larger vpn server network, better app
VirtualShield wins on: Simpler plan structure, identity theft protection
ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Cleaner apps, 18 audits, better support
StrongVPN wins on: Lower long-term price, WireGuard support
ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Real 18 audits, stronger privacy, better streaming
FastestVPN wins on: Very low lifetime price, simple apps
ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Larger server network, better streaming, cleaner expressvpn app
AuraVPN wins on: Identity theft tools, family plan value
ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster vpn speeds, better customer support, simpler app
CyberGhost wins on: More specialized streaming servers, lower cost per month
ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Pure VPN focus, stronger privacy record, wider server network
McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled antivirus, lower total cost with security suite
ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access
ExpressVPN wins on: Friendlier app, faster live chat, better streaming
Private Internet Access wins on: Lower price, open source apps, unlimited device connections
ExpressVPN vs Mysterium
ExpressVPN wins on: Real server network, cleaner app, full live chat support
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized nodes, pay-as-you-go pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: Much larger server network, 18 audits, faster setup
SafeShell VPN wins on: Lower price, simple streaming focus
ExpressVPN wins on: Larger server network, better expressvpn deals, stronger privacy
Oyster VPN wins on: Lifetime pricing option, lower entry cost
More of OpenVPN Compared
Here is how OpenVPN stacks up against other vpn providers:
OpenVPN vs NordVPN
OpenVPN wins on: Open source vpn protocol, self-hosting, full control
NordVPN wins on: Huge server network, streaming, consumer app polish
OpenVPN vs PureVPN
OpenVPN wins on: Open source code, business remote access, site-to-site setup
PureVPN wins on: Ready-made vpn service, server network, dedicated ip addresses
OpenVPN vs SurfsharkVPN
OpenVPN wins on: Self-hosting freedom, full data control
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited simultaneous connections, simple app, streaming
OpenVPN vs ProtonVPN
OpenVPN wins on: Self-hosting, business networking, custom security protocol
Proton VPN wins on: Free plan, server network, streaming, Swiss privacy laws
OpenVPN vs PrivadoVPN
OpenVPN wins on: Open source code review, business features, audit-friendly setup
PrivadoVPN wins on: Consumer vpn app, free plan with data cap, streaming
OpenVPN vs CyberGhost
OpenVPN wins on: Open source vpn protocol, business site-to-site use
CyberGhost wins on: Streaming-optimized vpn servers, simple app, lower price
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downside of ExpressVPN?
The main downside is price. ExpressVPN is higher than many vpn companies like Surfshark or Private Internet Access. You also get only 8 unlimited device connections per expressvpn subscription and no true free version, just a 30 day money back guarantee.
Is ExpressVPN better than OpenVPN for streaming?
Yes, ExpressVPN is much better for a streaming service. It has 3,000+ expressvpn servers that unblock Netflix, Hulu, and Disney Plus. OpenVPN alone has no server network and cannot access content on smart tvs without a paid vpn provider on top.
Is OpenVPN free and safe to use?
Yes, openvpn free is real. The openvpn community edition is 100% free to install and run on your own server. It is one of the safest vpn protocols in the world since the open source openvpn protocol has been reviewed by many security experts.
Can you be tracked on ExpressVPN?
Your internet service provider cannot see your online activity when the vpn connection is on. ExpressVPN does not keep connection logs or browsing history. The strict no logs policy has been audited 18 times to verify these claims.
Which is the best VPN protocol and vpn service for 2026?
The best vpn protocol depends on your needs. OpenVPN is excellent for tech teams who need openvpn connections, secure tunnels, and openvpn works across every operating system. For a ready-made best vpn service, ExpressVPN is our winner in 2026. ExpressVPN offers fast connection speeds, dns leak tests pass, ram only server infrastructure, and block adult sites tools. OpenVPN Technologies also serves a strong business market with its openvpn technologies line. Both tools can run openvpn safe on any vpn client thanks to the udp protocol and the openvpn is one of the most trusted names for vpn tunnels.
How does ExpressVPN work on mobile devices and smart TVs?
ExpressVPN has native apps for mobile devices, and its MediaStreamer works on smart TVs without a regular VPN app. If you want to check expressvpn alternatives, you can compare it with other VPN companies listed in our guide. The OpenVPN company runs the openvpn technologies brand and supports many operating systems too.
How do OpenVPN and other tunneling protocols handle data traffic?
OpenVPN is one of the most VPN protocols in daily use, and it compares well against other VPN protocols like WireGuard and IKEv2. It encrypts data traffic inside a secure tunnel, so neither your ISP nor other tunneling protocols can read it. This is why the openvpn company still leads many enterprise deployments.
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