ExpressVPN Review 2025: Speed, Security & Streaming

ExpressVPN, established in 2009 by Express Technologies Ltd., has consistently set the gold standard for Virtual Private Network (VPN) services. With headquarters based in the British Virgin Islands—a jurisdiction known for strong privacy laws—ExpressVPN prioritizes user anonymity and data protection. It’s trusted by over 3 million active users globally and is particularly popular in regions like the United States, Germany, and Japan, where streaming restrictions and online censorship are common challenges.

As of 2025, ExpressVPN boasts an expansive server network with over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including key locations such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Singapore. This robust infrastructure ensures fast and reliable connections, making it ideal for activities like gaming, streaming, and secure browsing.

This review delves into ExpressVPN’s features, examining how it addresses user needs in 2025. Whether you’re a privacy-conscious professional, an expat trying to access local content, or a gamer combating high ping, this review will help you make an informed decision.

Key Features Overview

ExpressVPN continues to dominate the VPN industry with a set of standout features that prioritize speed, security, and ease of use. Here’s a breakdown of what sets it apart in 2025:

1. High-Speed Servers

ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol ensures blazing-fast speeds for activities like streaming, gaming, and downloading large files. It operates a vast network of 3,000+ servers across 105 countries, including high-performance locations in the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, and Canada. Independent speed tests place its average download speeds at 480 Mbps, consistently outperforming industry benchmarks.

2. Strong Encryption

The service uses AES-256 encryption, the same standard employed by military and financial institutions. Its TrustedServer technology ensures no data is written to hard drives, enhancing security and privacy for all users.

3. Global Server Coverage

ExpressVPN offers access to servers in 105 countries, covering key regions such as Asia, Europe, North America, and South America. This makes it an excellent choice for bypassing geo-restrictions and ensuring reliable connections anywhere in the world.

4. User-Friendly Apps

ExpressVPN provides intuitive applications for a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and even routers. The app is praised for its ease of use, allowing seamless setup and functionality for beginners and experts alike.

5. Streaming and Torrenting Support

ExpressVPN excels in unblocking popular streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. Its P2P-friendly servers also make it a top choice for torrenting, with fast and anonymous downloads enabled across its network.

Security and Privacy

ExpressVPN has built a reputation for offering industry-leading security and privacy measures. Here’s a breakdown of the core components that ensure user safety and trust:

1. Encryption Protocols

ExpressVPN uses the latest encryption and tunneling protocols to secure user data:

• AES-256 Encryption: This military-grade encryption standard ensures that data is virtually unbreakable. Trusted by security experts, it’s widely used by governments and financial institutions.
• Lightway Protocol: Developed in-house by ExpressVPN, this protocol is optimized for speed, reliability, and low power consumption on devices like smartphones.
• OpenVPN: A robust and highly secure open-source protocol, supported for devices requiring additional compatibility.
• IKEv2/IPSec: An alternative protocol often preferred for its fast reconnection speeds, especially for mobile devices.

2. No-Logs Policy

ExpressVPN operates under a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not store any activity logs or connection logs that could identify users. This policy has been independently verified by PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) and further reinforced through the company’s TrustedServer technology, which ensures that all servers run on volatile RAM instead of hard drives. This approach makes it impossible to store data on the servers, as all information is wiped with every reboot.

3. Kill Switch

ExpressVPN includes a Network Lock (kill switch) feature that automatically halts all internet traffic if the VPN connection is disrupted. This is crucial for ensuring that sensitive data is never exposed. For example:

• The Network Lock is especially useful for users accessing public Wi-Fi or engaging in sensitive activities like banking or file sharing.

4. DNS/IPv6 Leak Protection

ExpressVPN uses its own private, encrypted DNS on every server to protect against DNS and IPv6 leaks. In recent third-party tests:

• No DNS or IP leaks were detected, confirming the reliability of ExpressVPN’s leak protection.

5. Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands

ExpressVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no mandatory data retention laws. Unlike countries within the Five Eyes or Fourteen Eyes alliances (like the U.S. or UK), the BVI does not cooperate with international surveillance programs, further protecting user data.

Server Network

ExpressVPN’s extensive server network is one of its strongest features, designed to cater to a wide range of use cases, including streaming, gaming, and bypassing censorship. Here’s a closer look at its network capabilities:

1. Global Coverage

ExpressVPN operates a vast network of over 3,000 servers across 105 countries and 160 cities, providing exceptional global coverage. Key server locations include:

• United States: Multiple servers optimized for streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu.
• United Kingdom: Great for accessing BBC iPlayer.
• Japan and South Korea: Ideal for gamers seeking low ping and region-locked game servers.
• Australia, Canada, and Germany: Reliable connections for bypassing censorship and accessing region-specific content.

ExpressVPN’s network also includes 10Gbps servers in several regions, ensuring high performance even during peak usage times.

2. Specialized Servers

Although all ExpressVPN servers support P2P file sharing and streaming, some locations are particularly optimized for specific tasks:

• P2P Sharing: High-speed servers allow anonymous torrenting without bandwidth limits.
• Streaming: Servers reliably unblock major platforms like Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix, enabling seamless, high-definition streaming.

3. Server Switching

ExpressVPN offers unlimited server switching, allowing users to change server locations as often as needed without additional costs. This is crucial for:

• Bypassing geo-restrictions quickly when accessing different streaming libraries.
• Ensuring a stable connection when encountering server load issues.
• Adapting to dynamic online censorship environments, such as those in China or Iran.

The Smart Location feature helps users automatically connect to the fastest and most reliable server based on factors like latency and distance.

Performance and Speed

ExpressVPN is renowned for its fast and reliable performance, underpinned by its proprietary Lightway protocol and robust global infrastructure. Here’s an evaluation of its speed, latency, and streaming capabilities:

1. Speed Test Results

ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol consistently delivers impressive speeds, crucial for bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming and torrenting. Based on recent testing:

• Local servers: Download speeds reached 898 Mbps, while upload speeds averaged 780 Mbps.
• Long-distance servers (UK to US): Download speeds remained robust at 396 Mbps, suitable for 4K streaming and large file downloads.
• OpenVPN protocol: Slower, with speeds peaking at 160 Mbps, still adequate for HD streaming.

2. Latency and Ping

Low latency is critical for gaming and live streaming. ExpressVPN performs well in this area:

• Ping on local servers: As low as 5ms, offering near-real-time responsiveness for competitive gaming.
• Long-distance servers: Ping increases to 100ms or more, but remains manageable for most live-streaming needs.

3. Streaming Performance

ExpressVPN excels at unblocking geo-restricted content:

• Successfully accesses popular platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer across multiple regions, including the US, UK, Japan, and Australia.
• The MediaStreamer DNS feature allows unblocking content on devices that don’t support VPN apps, like certain smart TVs and gaming consoles.
• Minimal buffering was observed during HD and 4K streaming tests, even on long-distance connections.

4. Torrenting Performance

ExpressVPN supports P2P sharing across all servers, ensuring high speeds and privacy:

• No bandwidth throttling observed during torrenting, with download speeds frequently exceeding 500 Mbps.
• Absence of port forwarding slightly limits peer-to-peer connectivity but is offset by the provider’s strong anonymity features.

Ease of Use

ExpressVPN is designed with user convenience in mind, offering broad compatibility, an intuitive interface, and a straightforward setup process. Here’s how it fares in terms of usability:

1. Device Compatibility

ExpressVPN supports a wide range of platforms, ensuring seamless protection across various devices:

• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux.
• Smart Devices: Apple TV, Fire TV, Android TV, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
• Routers: Compatible with ExpressVPN’s Aircove router and other brands like Asus and Linksys, enabling network-wide protection.
• Browsers: Extensions available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

A single subscription provides coverage for all these devices, making it an excellent choice for households or multi-device users.

2. Simultaneous Connections

ExpressVPN allows up to 8 simultaneous connections per subscription, a notable improvement from the previous limit of five. This makes it ideal for families or individuals with multiple devices.

3. User Interface

The app interface is clean, user-friendly, and highly intuitive:

• Desktop App: Offers a simple one-click connection feature with a prominent “On” button. A dropdown menu provides access to server locations.
• Mobile App: Features a streamlined design with shortcuts for frequently used apps, enabling faster access after connecting.
• Customization: Advanced settings like split tunneling and protocol selection (e.g., Lightway, OpenVPN) are tucked away in submenus for easy navigation.

4. Setup Process

Installing and configuring ExpressVPN is remarkably simple:

1. Sign Up: Choose a subscription plan and create an account.
2. Download and Install: Apps are tailored for each platform and can be downloaded directly from the ExpressVPN website or app stores.
3. Connect: Log in with your credentials, hit the “On” button, and you’re connected to the fastest server via the Smart Location feature.

The setup process takes less than five minutes, even for routers, thanks to detailed guides and 24/7 live chat support.

Customer Support

ExpressVPN sets a high standard for customer support, providing round-the-clock assistance and a variety of resources to help users resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

1. 24/7 Live Chat

ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, accessible directly through its website or app. The service is:

• Quick: Response times average 5–10 minutes, with agents knowledgeable about both technical issues and general queries.
• Efficient: Most problems, including setup and troubleshooting, are resolved during the first interaction.
• Multilingual: Support is available in multiple languages, catering to a global user base.

2. Knowledge Base

ExpressVPN maintains an extensive and user-friendly knowledge base, which includes:

• Step-by-step setup tutorials: Covering all supported devices, from Windows and macOS to routers and smart TVs.
• FAQs: Addressing common queries like account management and connection troubleshooting.
• Detailed guides: For advanced features, such as configuring split tunneling or troubleshooting connectivity issues.

3. Email Support

For complex issues, ExpressVPN provides email support:

• Response Time: Emails are typically answered within 12–24 hours.
• Effectiveness: Best suited for detailed inquiries that require in-depth explanations or escalations.

4. Community Forums

ExpressVPN does not currently operate a community forum, relying instead on its live chat and knowledge base for direct user interaction. However, its other support channels compensate effectively for this absence.

Streaming and Unblocking

ExpressVPN excels in bypassing geo-restrictions and unblocking a wide array of streaming platforms. Its capabilities are enhanced by a reliable infrastructure and advanced technology designed for consistency and ease of use.

1. Ability to Bypass Geo-Restrictions

ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol and robust server network (105 countries, 160 locations) make it one of the best VPNs for bypassing restrictions. Whether accessing blocked websites in regions like China, Iran, or Turkey, or unblocking local content while abroad, ExpressVPN performs reliably. Its Stealth Servers ensure effective bypassing in highly censored environments like China.

2. Unblocking Major Streaming Platforms

ExpressVPN’s compatibility with popular streaming services is one of its biggest strengths:

• Successfully unblocks Netflix libraries in the US, UK, Japan, and Australia.
• Provides access to Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.
• Its MediaStreamer DNS feature enables unblocking on devices that don’t support VPNs, such as older smart TVs and gaming consoles.

3. Consistency of Access

The VPN delivers consistent performance for both streaming and browsing during international travel:

• Server Reliability: Optimized servers minimize downtime, providing uninterrupted access to geo-restricted content.
• Customer Support: Available 24/7 to recommend specific servers for bypassing tough restrictions if necessary.
• China Access: Although not every server works within China, ExpressVPN has maintained a strong track record by regularly updating its infrastructure to combat government-imposed restrictions.

Pricing and Plans

ExpressVPN offers a range of subscription plans, ensuring flexibility for users with different needs. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Subscription Plans

• Monthly Plan: $12.95 per month. Ideal for short-term use but expensive compared to long-term plans.
• 1-Year Plan: $6.67 per month, billed as $99.95 for 15 months (includes 3 months free). A popular choice for consistent savings.
• 2-Year Plan: $4.99 per month, billed as $139.72 for 28 months (includes 4 months free). Offers the best overall value.

2. Comparison to Competitors

ExpressVPN’s pricing is higher than many competitors:

• NordVPN: Starts at $3.09 per month (2-year plan), offering a similar feature set but at a lower price point.
• Surfshark: Starts at $2.49 per month, with unlimited device connections, making it a budget-friendly alternative.
• CyberGhost: Offers plans as low as $2.19 per month for long-term subscriptions.

While ExpressVPN costs more, its premium features, like the Lightway protocol, extensive server network, and trusted no-logs policy, justify the price for users prioritizing speed and security.

3. Value for Money

ExpressVPN offers a high-value package, including:

• Access to servers in 105 countries.
• AES-256 encryption and TrustedServer technology.
• Additional tools like MediaStreamer DNS, a password manager, and ad/tracker blocking.
• 8 simultaneous device connections.

Its comprehensive feature set makes it a strong contender for users who prioritize performance and privacy.

4. Money-Back Guarantee

ExpressVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee:

• Conditions: No questions asked; users can request a refund within 30 days of purchase.
• Risk-Free Trial: Includes a 7-day free trial for mobile apps, allowing new users to explore features without committing.

Comparison with Competitors

ExpressVPN is often compared to other leading VPN services like NordVPN and Surfshark. Here’s how it stacks up across key performance metrics:

1. Speed and Performance

• ExpressVPN: Known for its proprietary Lightway protocol, it offers reliable speeds even on distant servers, averaging 898 Mbps on nearby connections. However, long-distance speeds can drop to around 396 Mbps.
• NordVPN: Performs slightly better on long-distance speeds, reaching up to 950 Mbps with its NordLynx protocol.
• Surfshark: Matches NordVPN in speed and outpaces ExpressVPN for distant connections, with consistent performance at 950 Mbps+.

Verdict: ExpressVPN provides excellent speeds but lags behind NordVPN and Surfshark in long-distance performance.

2. Streaming and Unblocking

• ExpressVPN: Excels at unblocking platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Its MediaStreamer DNS feature is a significant advantage for streaming on devices that don’t natively support VPN apps.
• NordVPN: Matches ExpressVPN in unblocking major platforms and includes specialized servers for streaming.
• Surfshark: Provides the most consistent access to streaming services globally but lacks a DNS feature like MediaStreamer.

Verdict: ExpressVPN leads with its MediaStreamer feature but faces stiff competition from Surfshark for overall consistency.

3. Security and Privacy

• ExpressVPN: Uses AES-256 encryption and its proprietary TrustedServer technology with RAM-only servers. Its no-logs policy is independently audited by PwC and KPMG.
• NordVPN: Equally secure with AES-256 encryption, RAM-only servers, and third-party audits, but suffered a security breach in 2018 (since resolved).
• Surfshark: Offers the same encryption and RAM-only servers but hasn’t undergone as many audits as ExpressVPN or NordVPN.

Verdict: ExpressVPN sets the gold standard for privacy and security due to its consistent audits and TrustedServer technology.

4. Pricing and Device Connections

• ExpressVPN: Starting at $6.67/month (annual plan) with 8 simultaneous connections.
• NordVPN: Starts at $3.09/month (2-year plan) with 6 connections.
• Surfshark: The most affordable at $2.49/month (2-year plan) with unlimited device connections.

Verdict: ExpressVPN is pricier than competitors, offering fewer connections compared to Surfshark’s unlimited plan.

5. Ease of Use and Support

• ExpressVPN: Known for its intuitive apps, seamless setup, and 24/7 live chat support.
• NordVPN: Equally easy to use but lacks some advanced split tunneling features found in ExpressVPN.
• Surfshark: User-friendly apps but slightly less polished compared to ExpressVPN’s design.

Verdict: ExpressVPN wins with its refined interface and responsive support.

Where ExpressVPN Stands Out

• Privacy and Security: TrustedServer technology and comprehensive audits give it a privacy edge.
• Streaming: MediaStreamer DNS enhances usability for streaming-focused users.
• Ease of Use: Industry-leading apps and support make it ideal for beginners.

Where ExpressVPN Falls Short

• Price: Costs more than NordVPN and Surfshark.
• Simultaneous Connections: Limited to 8 devices, trailing behind Surfshark’s unlimited offering.

11. Pros and Cons

Pros

• AES-256 encryption and RAM-only TrustedServer technology for top-notch security.
• Audited no-logs policy verified by PwC and KPMG.
• Over 3,000 servers in 105 countries for global coverage.
• Unblocks major streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.
• MediaStreamer DNS for non-VPN-compatible devices.
• Lightway protocol ensures fast and stable speeds.
• User-friendly apps for all major platforms.
• 24/7 live chat support with quick response times.
• Risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Cons

• Higher pricing starting at $6.67/month on annual plans.
• Limited to 8 simultaneous device connections.
• Long-distance speeds can be slower compared to competitors like NordVPN.
• No port forwarding for enhanced torrenting performance.
• Lacks a community forum for user-driven discussions.

User Feedback and Reviews

Trustpilot Reviews

ExpressVPN has a strong reputation on Trustpilot, with an overall rating of 4.3/5 from over 25,400 reviews.

• Positive Feedback:
  • Many users praise the speed, security, and customer service, describing it as prompt, professional, and effective.
  • Regular mentions of its ability to bypass geo-restrictions and consistent access to streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+.
  • Several users highlight its ease of use and seamless performance during international travel.
• Common Complaints:
  • Some users reported issues with connectivity stability, especially in the past few weeks.
  • Complaints about auto-renewals and a lack of clarity in cancellation policies.
  • A few instances of delayed customer support responses during high-traffic times.

Clutch Feedback

Unfortunately, the Clutch page for ExpressVPN does not provide active ratings or reviews.

My Verdict: Is ExpressVPN Worth It in 2025?

After thoroughly evaluating ExpressVPN, I can confidently say that it remains one of the top VPN options in 2025. Its strong focus on privacy, impressive server network, and excellent streaming capabilities make it a standout choice, albeit at a premium price.

Overall Findings

ExpressVPN excels in delivering robust security features like AES-256 encryption and its TrustedServer technology, ensuring user data stays private. It has maintained its reputation for unblocking streaming services effortlessly, and its Lightway protocol ensures reliable speeds for most online activities. However, I did notice that the service is on the pricier side, and long-distance speeds can lag compared to competitors like NordVPN and Surfshark. Additionally, the 8-device connection limit feels slightly restrictive in today’s multi-device households.

Who is ExpressVPN Best Suited For?

If you’re a privacy-conscious user, frequent traveler, or streaming enthusiast, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for:

• Expats or travelers who need consistent access to content in restricted regions like China.
• Streamers looking to unblock platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer across multiple regions.
• Security-focused users who prioritize anonymity and strict no-logs policies.

However, if you’re on a budget or need to connect more than 8 devices simultaneously, you might find better value with competitors like Surfshark or CyberGhost.

My Final Rating

I’d rate ExpressVPN 4.5/5. Its performance, security, and ease of use are stellar, but the pricing and device connection limitations hold it back from being a perfect 5. Still, if budget isn’t a concern and you value quality and reliability, ExpressVPN is well worth the investment in 2025.

Ultimately, ExpressVPN stands out as a premium VPN solution, and it’s a service I’d personally recommend for users who demand the best in online privacy and streaming capabilities.

17. FAQs

1. Is ExpressVPN good for streaming?

Yes, ExpressVPN is excellent for streaming. It reliably unblocks popular platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer across multiple regions, including the US, UK, Japan, and Australia. The MediaStreamer DNS feature enhances streaming on devices that don’t natively support VPNs, such as older smart TVs and gaming consoles. Its speeds are sufficient for smooth 4K streaming with minimal buffering.

2. Does it work in China?

Yes, ExpressVPN is one of the few VPNs that still work effectively in China. Its Stealth Servers bypass the Great Firewall, allowing access to blocked websites and streaming platforms. However, connection reliability can vary, and users are advised to set up the VPN before entering China to ensure seamless access.

3. How secure is ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is highly secure, offering:

• AES-256 encryption, a military-grade standard trusted by governments and financial institutions.
• TrustedServer technology, ensuring no user data is stored on its servers.
• A strict no-logs policy, independently verified by PwC and KPMG.
  Additional features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and the proprietary Lightway protocol further enhance its security, making it one of the safest VPNs available.

4. What are the supported payment methods?

ExpressVPN supports a variety of payment methods, including:

• Major credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express.
• Digital payment services: PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay.
• Cryptocurrency: Bitcoin for anonymous transactions.

Local payment options: Vary by region, such as UnionPay and Sofort in some countries.