ExpressVPN Review: Is It Worth the Price?

ExpressVPN Review

With the ever-growing demand for online privacy, security, and access to geo-restricted content, VPN services are becoming more popular than ever. ExpressVPN has long been considered one of the best VPNs on the market, offering a combination of fast speeds, high-level security, and global server coverage. But with so many VPN providers available, you might be wondering: Is ExpressVPN worth the price in 2024?

In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into ExpressVPN’s key features, pricing, performance, security, and customer support to help you decide whether it justifies its premium price tag.


Overview of ExpressVPN

Founded in 2009, ExpressVPN has built a strong reputation for its robust security features, privacy-focused policies, and exceptional streaming capabilities. It operates in over 94 countries, offering more than 3,000 servers globally. While many VPNs struggle to balance speed, security, and usability, ExpressVPN aims to deliver on all fronts, making it a favorite among tech enthusiasts and casual users alike.

Key features include:

  • AES-256 encryption for maximum security
  • Lightway protocol for enhanced speed and reliability
  • A no-logs policy that has been independently audited
  • Split tunneling for controlling which apps use the VPN
  • Kill switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops
  • Obfuscated servers for bypassing VPN blocks in restrictive regions
  • MediaStreamer for seamless streaming on devices that don’t support VPN apps
  • 24/7 live chat support

Security and Privacy

When it comes to VPNs, security and privacy are top priorities, and ExpressVPN excels in both areas.

Military-Grade Encryption

ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption, the highest encryption standard used by governments, militaries, and security agencies worldwide. This level of encryption ensures that even if your data were intercepted, it would be virtually impossible for anyone to decrypt it.

The VPN also supports multiple security protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and its proprietary Lightway protocol. While OpenVPN is a highly secure and widely trusted protocol, Lightway offers faster connections and lower latency without sacrificing security. The protocol has been designed to maintain stable connections even on unreliable networks, making it an excellent option for mobile users.

No-Logs Policy

One of the key reasons ExpressVPN is trusted by millions of users is its strict no-logs policy. This means that ExpressVPN does not collect or store any data related to your browsing activity, connection logs, or personal information. Even if authorities were to request your data, there would be nothing to hand over.

In 2024, ExpressVPN continues to back up its privacy claims with independent audits. The VPN has undergone multiple audits by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), verifying that its no-logs policy holds true. Additionally, ExpressVPN operates under British Virgin Islands (BVI) jurisdiction, which has no mandatory data retention laws, providing an added layer of privacy.

TrustedServer Technology

Unlike most VPNs that use traditional hard drives to store data, ExpressVPN runs on RAM-only servers (TrustedServer technology). RAM is volatile memory, which means all data is wiped with every server reboot. This ensures that no data is ever written to a hard drive, further enhancing your privacy and security.

Kill Switch and DNS Leak Protection

ExpressVPN offers a kill switch feature (Network Lock) that automatically cuts off your internet connection if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly. This prevents any accidental data leaks that could expose your real IP address or online activities. Additionally, ExpressVPN includes DNS leak protection, ensuring that your DNS queries are routed securely through its servers and not exposed to your ISP.


Speed and Performance

One of the primary complaints about VPNs is that they often slow down your internet connection due to the encryption and rerouting of traffic. However, ExpressVPN consistently ranks among the fastest VPNs on the market.

Lightway Protocol

ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol is a game-changer when it comes to performance. Developed in-house, Lightway is designed to provide faster speeds, quicker connection times, and more stable performance compared to older protocols like OpenVPN. In 2024, Lightway continues to be one of the fastest VPN protocols, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and downloading large files.

Global Server Network

With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN offers excellent global coverage. Whether you're in North America, Europe, Asia, or even more remote locations, you’re likely to find a nearby server that provides a fast and reliable connection. ExpressVPN’s extensive server network also ensures that there’s always an alternative server available if one becomes overcrowded or experiences technical issues.

Speed Test Results

During testing, ExpressVPN consistently delivers high-speed performance across multiple server locations. Whether connecting to a nearby server or one on the other side of the world, ExpressVPN maintains impressive speeds. Even on distant servers, the speed drop is minimal, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize performance.

Streaming in 4K, downloading large files, and playing online games are all possible with ExpressVPN’s fast and reliable servers.


Streaming and Geo-Unblocking

One of the standout features of ExpressVPN is its ability to bypass geo-restrictions on popular streaming services. Whether you want to access Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, or Hulu from another country, ExpressVPN reliably unblocks content and provides smooth, buffer-free streaming.

MediaStreamer for Streaming Devices

For devices that don’t support VPN apps—such as Apple TV, smart TVs, and gaming consoles—ExpressVPN offers a MediaStreamer feature. MediaStreamer is a smart DNS service that helps you unblock geo-restricted content on these devices. While it doesn’t offer the same level of encryption as the VPN, it provides a seamless streaming experience with minimal setup.

During our tests, ExpressVPN consistently unblocked restricted content on major streaming platforms. Whether you’re looking to access the full US Netflix library, watch BBC iPlayer from abroad, or stream international sports, ExpressVPN remains one of the top choices for bypassing geo-restrictions.


Pricing and Plans

ExpressVPN is often considered a premium VPN, and its pricing reflects that:

  • 1-Month Plan: $12.95/month
  • 6-Month Plan: $9.99/month (billed $59.95 every 6 months)
  • 12-Month Plan: $6.67/month (billed $99.95 annually, includes 3 extra free months)

While ExpressVPN is more expensive than some competitors, it offers a premium service with unmatched speed, security, and ease of use. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service risk-free.


Device Compatibility and User Experience

ExpressVPN provides dedicated apps for a wide range of devices and platforms, including:

  • Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • iOS and Android
  • Routers
  • Smart TVs and gaming consoles

The VPN apps are user-friendly, with a clean and intuitive interface. Connecting to a server takes just a few clicks, and advanced users can easily tweak settings such as choosing between different VPN protocols.

Router App

One standout feature is ExpressVPN’s dedicated router app, which allows users to protect their entire home network with a single VPN connection. This is especially useful for households with multiple devices, ensuring that all traffic is encrypted without the need to install individual VPN apps on every device.


Customer Support

ExpressVPN provides 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and an extensive knowledge base. The support team is responsive and knowledgeable, providing assistance with troubleshooting, installation, and technical issues.

ExpressVPN’s help center includes detailed guides, FAQs, and tutorials, making it easy for users to find answers to common questions.


Conclusion: Is ExpressVPN Worth the Price?

In 2024, ExpressVPN remains a premium VPN service that justifies its higher price with exceptional security, privacy features, speed, and performance. Whether you're a privacy-conscious user, a frequent traveler looking to bypass geo-restrictions, or someone who simply wants to stream content securely, ExpressVPN delivers on all fronts.

With its Lightway protocol, extensive server network, and reliable access to streaming services, ExpressVPN continues to be one of the best choices for VPN users in 2024.

Verdict: Yes, ExpressVPN is worth the price for users who value top-tier privacy, fast speeds, and a seamless streaming experience.