📊 Our Test Results:
- ⚡ Speed Test: ExpressVPN averaged 25% speed loss vs PIA’s 49% — ExpressVPN wins
- 🔒 Security Audits: ExpressVPN completed 18 audits vs PIA’s 1 Deloitte audit — ExpressVPN wins
- 📺 Streaming: ExpressVPN unblocked all tested libraries vs PIA unblocking most — ExpressVPN wins
- 💰 Price (2-Year): ExpressVPN $2.44/mo vs PIA $2.03/mo — PIA wins
- 🔌 Device Connections: ExpressVPN 8 devices vs PIA unlimited — PIA wins
Are you stuck choosing between two of the most well-known VPN services on the market?
ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access are both solid choices. But they serve very different needs.
I spent three weeks testing both tools side by side. I ran speed tests, checked streaming access, and dug into their security policies.
This comparison will help you pick the right VPN for your situation.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, I tested ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access on real connections.
I measured download speeds, checked for DNS leaks, and tried to unblock streaming services on each.
I also reviewed each provider’s security track record and privacy policies in depth.
My goal is to give you a clear answer — not just specs from a marketing page.
What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is one of the most popular VPN services in the world. It was founded in 2009 and is based in the British Virgin Islands.
It operates over 3,000 servers across 105 countries. Its Lightway protocol is designed for fast, reliable connections.
ExpressVPN is known for being beginner-friendly while still offering advanced security features.
🏆 Winner: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN delivers top-tier speed, 18 independent audits, and TrustedServer RAM-only technology. It’s the best choice for streaming, privacy, and reliability in 2026.
ExpressVPN Pricing
Here’s what ExpressVPN costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.44/mo | Privacy on a budget |
| Advanced | $3.14/mo | Added security features |
| Pro | $5.24/mo | Full feature access |
Free trial: No free trial. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available on all plans.
Money-back guarantee: 30 days, no questions asked. You can cancel within 30 days for a full refund.
📌 Note: The Pro plan includes ExpressVPN Keys (password manager), Identity Defender, and advanced parental controls. The Basic plan covers core VPN access with full speed and privacy features.
⚠️ Warning: ExpressVPN prices shown are based on the long-term promotional rate. Month-to-month pricing is significantly higher. Always check the current pricing page before purchasing.
Key Benefits of ExpressVPN
Here’s why ExpressVPN stands out from the competition:
- Lightway Protocol: ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol is built for speed and efficiency. It connects faster and maintains more stable connections than OpenVPN.
- TrustedServer Technology: All servers run on RAM only — no hard drives. Every server reboot wipes all data completely.
- 18 Independent Audits: ExpressVPN has been audited more than almost any other VPN. This confirms its no-logs policy and server security are legit.
- Streaming Performance: ExpressVPN consistently unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Its MediaStreamer feature works on smart TVs and gaming consoles too.
- 105-Country Network: Over 3,000 servers span 105 countries. This gives you more location options than most VPN providers.
- Password Manager Included: Every plan includes ExpressVPN Keys. That’s a full password manager bundled at no extra cost.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Only 25% average speed loss — very fast for a VPN
- 18 independent audits confirm no-logs policy
- TrustedServer RAM-only servers for enhanced privacy
- Unblocks all major streaming platforms reliably
- Password manager included with every plan
❌ Cons
- More expensive than PIA and many competitors
- Only 8 simultaneous device connections
- No six-month plan — fewer billing options
What is Private Internet Access?
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a US-based VPN provider with one of the largest server networks available. It has over 35,000 servers across 91 countries.
PIA is popular among privacy-focused users and developers. Its apps are fully open-source, meaning anyone can inspect the code.
It also offers unlimited simultaneous connections — a rare feature in the VPN world.
Private Internet Access
PIA is the budget champion of VPNs. It offers unlimited device connections, open-source apps, and a Deloitte-audited no-logs policy — all at one of the lowest prices in the market.
Private Internet Access Pricing
Here’s what PIA costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Years + 4 Months | $2.03/month | Maximum savings long-term |
| 6 Months | $7.50/month | Mid-term flexibility |
| 1 Month | $11.99/month | Short-term or trial use |
Free trial: No free trial, but a 30-day money-back guarantee applies to all plans.
Money-back guarantee: 30 days on all subscription plans. PIA does not raise prices on renewal.
📌 Note: PIA’s 2-year plan at $2.03/month is one of the cheapest long-term VPN options on the market. Unlike many VPNs, PIA does not hike prices when your plan renews.
⚠️ Warning: PIA’s monthly plan at $11.99 is above the industry average. Only consider the monthly plan if you need short-term access. The 2-year plan is by far the best value.
Key Benefits of Private Internet Access
Here’s why PIA stands out for privacy-focused users:
- Unlimited Connections: PIA allows unlimited simultaneous device connections. Most VPNs cap you at 5–10 devices.
- Open-Source Apps: PIA’s entire codebase is publicly available. Anyone can verify that the apps do what they claim.
- Massive Server Network: 35,000 servers in 91 countries gives you enormous flexibility. PIA covers all 50 US states — great for US-based users.
- MACE Ad Blocker: PIA includes a DNS-level ad and tracker blocker. It works at the network level, not just in browsers.
- Audited No-Logs Policy: Deloitte independently verified PIA’s no-logs claims. PIA also publishes quarterly transparency reports.
- Multi-Hop Support: PIA routes traffic through two VPN servers for extra anonymity. This is a feature typically found only in premium VPNs.
Private Internet Access Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- One of the cheapest long-term VPN plans available
- Open-source apps for maximum transparency
- Massive 35,000-server network across 91 countries
❌ Cons
- 49% average speed loss — slower than ExpressVPN
- Based in the US — a Five Eyes jurisdiction
- Inconsistent at unblocking some streaming services
Feature Comparison
Ready to see how these two VPNs stack up feature by feature?
We’ll cover 9 key areas to help you decide which one fits your needs.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.44/mo | $2.03/mo |
| Free Plan | ❌ | ❌ |
| Server Network | 3,000+ in 105 countries | 35,000+ in 91 countries |
| Speed Loss | ~25% | ~49% |
| No-Logs Audits | 18 audits | 1 audit (Deloitte) |
| Device Connections | 8 | Unlimited |
| Ad Blocker | ✅ | ✅ |
| Open-Source Apps | ❌ | ✅ |
| Streaming Performance | Excellent | Good |
| Best For | Speed, streaming, privacy | Budget, power users, devices |
1. Speed & Performance
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN averages only 25% speed loss during testing. Its Lightway protocol is purpose-built for fast connections. It performs consistently well across servers in the US, UK, and Asia.
Private Internet Access: PIA averages 49% speed loss in testing. Performance varies based on the protocol and server location you choose. WireGuard tends to perform better than OpenVPN on PIA.
⚠️ Warning: PIA’s speed loss of 49% can be noticeable during video calls or large downloads. If raw speed matters, ExpressVPN is the clear choice.
2. Security & Audits
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has completed 18 independent security audits. It uses AES-256 encryption and TrustedServer RAM-only technology. Every server reboot wipes all data — making logs physically impossible to retain.
Private Internet Access: PIA’s no-logs policy was independently verified by Deloitte. It uses AES-256 encryption over OpenVPN or ChaCha20 via WireGuard. PIA publishes quarterly transparency reports with real data request counts.
💡 Test Result: ExpressVPN’s 18 audits give it a clear edge in verified security track record. PIA’s single Deloitte audit is credible but less extensive by comparison.
3. Server Network
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN runs 3,000+ servers in 105 countries. Its geographic spread is wider than PIA’s. This gives you better access to rare regional content.
Private Internet Access: PIA has over 35,000 servers in 91 countries — the largest server count of any major VPN. It covers all 50 US states, which is excellent for domestic US users.
✅ Verdict: ExpressVPN wins on global coverage (105 vs 91 countries). PIA wins on raw server count (35,000 vs 3,000+). Choose based on what matters more to you.
4. Streaming Performance
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN consistently unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Its MediaStreamer feature even works on devices that don’t support VPNs natively — like smart TVs and consoles.
Private Internet Access: PIA has streaming-optimized servers that can unblock Netflix and Disney+. But results are inconsistent across regions. Some libraries like Japan and Australia may require server swaps.
5. Device Connections
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN allows up to 8 simultaneous device connections. This is enough for most households. But it’s a hard limit — no workaround unless you use the Aircove router.
Private Internet Access: PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections on all plans. You can protect every device in your home with a single subscription. This is a massive win for families or power users.
6. Ad Blocking & Privacy Tools
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites. It also includes a parental controls feature and Identity Defender on higher plans. The password manager (Keys) is included on all plans.
Private Internet Access: PIA’s MACE ad blocker works at the DNS level — blocking ads before they load. It also offers data breach monitoring via Identity Guard. Split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN.
7. Ease of Use
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has one of the cleanest interfaces in the VPN industry. One tap connects you to the best server. It’s designed for beginners but doesn’t hide advanced settings from power users.
Private Internet Access: PIA has a simple, uncluttered interface. But it offers more customization options — encryption protocols, kill switch types, and automation rules. This makes it better for advanced users.
8. Split Tunneling
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN supports split tunneling on Windows, Mac, Android, and its router app. You can choose which apps use the VPN tunnel and which bypass it.
Private Internet Access: PIA’s split tunneling lets you exclude specific apps or IP addresses. It also lets you set automation rules — like auto-connecting when on public Wi-Fi. This level of control is impressive at PIA’s price point.
9. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan Type | ExpressVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Best Long-Term Rate | $2.44/mo (Basic) | $2.03/mo (2 yr + 4 mo) |
| Mid-Term Plan | N/A | $7.50/mo (6 months) |
| Monthly Plan | N/A (higher) | $11.99/mo |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| Price Lock on Renewal | No guarantee | ✅ Yes |
ExpressVPN: Starting at $2.44/month on the long-term Basic plan, ExpressVPN is competitive. But the Pro plan at $5.24/month is where the full feature set lives. You’re paying more for reliability, speed, and audit history.
Private Internet Access: At $2.03/month on the 2-year plan, PIA is one of the cheapest VPNs with serious features. It also locks in your price at renewal — a rare and valuable promise that ExpressVPN doesn’t make.
💡 Test Result: PIA is $0.41/mo cheaper than ExpressVPN’s entry plan on long-term billing. Over 2 years, that’s nearly $10 in savings — but ExpressVPN delivers significantly better speed and streaming performance for the difference.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best streaming performance | ExpressVPN | Unblocks all libraries reliably |
| Lowest long-term price | PIA | $2.03/mo with price lock |
| Unlimited devices | PIA | No connection limit at all |
| Most security audits | ExpressVPN | 18 independent verifications |
| Fastest speeds | ExpressVPN | Only 25% vs 49% speed loss |
| Open-source transparency | PIA | Fully public codebase |
| Beginner-friendly setup | ExpressVPN | Cleaner, simpler interface |
💰 Your Budget
PIA is the winner here at $2.03/month on its 2-year plan. ExpressVPN starts at $2.44/month but lacks a price-lock guarantee on renewal.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Both VPNs support Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. ExpressVPN also offers the Aircove router for whole-home VPN coverage. PIA is better for users who want to connect unlimited devices directly.
📺 Your Streaming Needs
ExpressVPN is the better streaming VPN. It reliably unblocks more platforms across more regions. PIA works for most services but can be inconsistent with certain regional Netflix libraries.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Beginners will love ExpressVPN’s clean, one-tap interface. Power users and developers may prefer PIA’s granular controls, open-source apps, and automation rules.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Neither ExpressVPN nor PIA offers a free trial. Both offer a 30-day money-back guarantee — use it to test the VPN risk-free on real connections.
🛟 Support Options
ExpressVPN has 24/7 live chat and email support, which is excellent. PIA also offers support but is better known for its community documentation and transparency reports.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPNs? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to PIA?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited device connections with one subscription
- A lower monthly rate with price-lock on renewal
- Open-source apps for full code transparency
❌ What you’ll lose:
- ExpressVPN’s faster speeds (25% vs 49% loss)
- TrustedServer RAM-only server technology
- 18 independent security audits track record
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel ExpressVPN before your billing date (use the 30-day guarantee if eligible)
- Sign up for PIA at fahimai.com/get/pia — choose the 2-year plan for best value
- Download PIA apps on all your devices and run the DNS leak test to confirm setup
🔄 Switching from PIA to ExpressVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Nearly 2x faster speeds with the Lightway protocol
- 18 independent audits and TrustedServer RAM-only servers
- More reliable streaming across all platforms and regions
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Unlimited device connections (ExpressVPN caps at 8)
- The lower $2.03/month price with renewal price lock
- Open-source code transparency
📋 How to switch:
- Request a refund from PIA within your 30-day guarantee window
- Sign up for ExpressVPN at fahimai.com/get/expressvpn — choose the plan that fits your needs
- Install ExpressVPN on up to 8 devices and run the built-in DNS leak test to verify protection
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Private Internet Access |
| ⚡ Speed & Performance | ExpressVPN |
| 🔒 Security & Audits | ExpressVPN |
| 🌐 Server Network (Countries) | ExpressVPN |
| 📺 Streaming Performance | ExpressVPN |
| 🔌 Device Connections | Private Internet Access |
| 👶 Ease of Use | ExpressVPN |
| 🔍 Transparency | Private Internet Access |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | ExpressVPN |
🏆 WINNER: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN wins 5 out of 8 categories.
Best for: Streaming fans, privacy-focused users, beginners who want reliable performance
These two VPNs serve different audiences well.
ExpressVPN is the better all-around VPN. It’s faster, more thoroughly audited, and more reliable for streaming.
Private Internet Access is the better budget VPN. It offers unlimited connections, open-source apps, and a price that almost nothing can beat.
If you’re a family with many devices or a developer who values transparency, PIA is worth every cent.
But if you want the best speed, streaming access, and security track record, ExpressVPN is the clear winner.
More of ExpressVPN Compared
Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against other competitors:
ExpressVPN wins on: Ease of use, server country coverage (105 vs 61), streaming consistency
NordVPN wins on: Price, server count, double VPN feature
ExpressVPN vs PureVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, audit count, TrustedServer technology
PureVPN wins on: Lower price, more simultaneous connections
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, server country spread, streaming reliability
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, lower price, camouflage mode
ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, server count
ProtonVPN wins on: Open-source apps, free plan availability, Switzerland jurisdiction
ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Server network size, audit history, streaming performance
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan with 10GB, lower pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, privacy audits, ease of use
CyberGhost wins on: Dedicated streaming servers, lower long-term price
ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Server network, speed, streaming
AdGuard VPN wins on: Built-in ad blocking focus, DNS filtering
ExpressVPN vs Mysterium
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, reliability, ease of use
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized architecture, pay-per-use model
More of Private Internet Access Compared
Here’s how Private Internet Access stacks up against other competitors:
PIA vs NordVPN
PIA wins on: Price, unlimited devices, open-source code
NordVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, double VPN feature
PIA vs PureVPN
PIA wins on: Open-source apps, Deloitte audit, US server coverage
PureVPN wins on: Lower starting price on some plans, more country options
PIA vs SurfsharkVPN
PIA wins on: Server count, US state coverage, open-source transparency
Surfshark wins on: Speed, streaming, camouflage mode
PIA vs ProtonVPN
PIA wins on: Price, server count, unlimited connections
ProtonVPN wins on: Swiss jurisdiction, free plan, Tor integration
PIA vs CyberGhost
PIA wins on: Open-source apps, US server density, multi-hop support
CyberGhost wins on: Dedicated streaming servers, no-spy servers
PIA vs Mysterium
PIA wins on: Ease of use, speed consistency, customer support
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, no central company control
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ExpressVPN better than Private Internet Access?
ExpressVPN wins overall on speed, streaming, and security audits. PIA wins on price and device connections. For most users wanting a reliable, fast VPN, ExpressVPN is the better pick. Budget-focused users with many devices should consider PIA.
Is Private Internet Access safe to use?
Yes, PIA is safe. Its no-logs policy was independently verified by Deloitte. Its apps are fully open-source, which means the code is publicly auditable. It also publishes quarterly transparency reports showing real data request counts.
Is ExpressVPN trustworthy?
Yes. ExpressVPN has completed 18 independent audits confirming its no-logs policy and security practices. Its TrustedServer technology makes it physically impossible to retain user data. It’s considered one of the most audited VPNs in the industry.
How much does PIA VPN cost per month?
PIA costs $2.03/month on the 2-year + 4-month plan, $7.50/month on the 6-month plan, and $11.99/month on the monthly plan. The 2-year plan is by far the best value and includes a price-lock guarantee on renewal.
What is cheaper — ExpressVPN or PIA?
PIA is cheaper. Its best rate is $2.03/month vs ExpressVPN’s $2.44/month on long-term plans. PIA also locks in your renewal price, which ExpressVPN does not guarantee. For pure affordability, PIA wins clearly.
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