ExpressVPN Review 2022 – Plans, Pros, Cons and Alternatives

Who is ExpressVPN Best for?

ExpressVPN is designed for users who want to hide their IP addresses, protect their private information and stream content privately.

ExpressVPN Features: What Does ExpressVPN Offer?

Split Tunneling

ExpressVPN has a Split Tunneling feature that gives you precise controls on how to direct your VPN traffic. To set this up, you can;

• Use the default option
• Exclude select apps from VPN, forcing them to connect directly
• Allow only select apps to use a VPN

MediaStreamer

ExpressVPN offers a Smart DNS feature called MediaStreamer. While it doesn’t add any additional encryption, it makes your streaming experience easier.

This is especially useful when you’re accustomed to watching streaming media on a device that doesn’t support VPN. With MediaStreamer, you can change the DNS address, and the device will act as if it’s using a VPN when connecting to geo-restricted sites. 

Router app

ExpressVPN has a proprietary router app that allows you to set it up fast. You’ll have to download ExpressVPN firmware and upload it to the router to access this feature. 

Shortcuts

ExpressVPN has a shortcut feature that lets you launch a specific app immediately after connecting to a VPN server. You can right-click the bar under the connect button and select Edit shortcuts. By clicking the shortcut icon, you will instantly launch the added website or URL link, which prevents you from manually looking for it.

Encryption

ExpressVPN uses the AES 256-GCM cipher. Meaning any hacker would have to go through a 256-bit-sized key. 

Tunneling protocols

ExpressVPN supports several protocols, including;

• Lightway: The newest open-source addition to the service uses lightweight cryptographic libraries to make your connection faster. 
• OpenVPN: This is one of the most popular but not the most efficient tunneling protocols.
• IKEv2: This protocol shares similar traits like seamless switching and fast connection times. 

Network Lock

ExpressVPN has a kill switch feature called Network Lock. If you’re using a VPN to protect your identity, this feature will shut down your Internet connection when the VPN server’s link is disrupted and prevent unwanted leaks of your actual IP.

Does ExpressVPN Offer Free Plan?

While ExpressVPN does not offer a free plan you can access all the features completely risk-free for 30 days.

ExpressVPN has apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, and Kindle. It also offers manual configurations for Linux, Chromebook, wireless routers and streaming media consoles.

ExpressVPN Pricing Plans: How Much ExpressVPN Cost?

ExpressVPN offers three plans, including $12.95 per month for a one-month plan, $9.99 per month for a six-month plan, and $8.32 per month for a 12-month plan. As for payments, you can use a credit card, PayPal, Bitcoin, or other options like UnionPay to pay for your subscription.

ExpressVPN Reviews: is ExpressVPN Reliable?

ExpressVPN is a reliable VPN service with a good global footprint and privacy practices to protect your information. Rated 2.4 on Trustpilot, and 2.7 on Sitejabber, most users are generally happy with the platform. 

According to them, ExpressVPN is worth the cost and provides you with peace of mind. Others also described the app as a good app that offers good package deals. Unfortunately, some reviewers think ExpressVPN is not good enough, claiming they found a lot of difficulties accessing it. Others also had issues connecting to some countries. 

What Are the ExpressVPN Pros & Cons?

ExpressVPN Pros

• Fast VPN speeds
• Specialized servers
• Dedicated IP option
• Unblocks most streaming devices

ExpressVPN Cons

• Inconsistent speeds
• Above average prices from $8.32

How Good is ExpressVPN Support and Knowledge Base?

ExpressVPN has a comprehensive knowledge base, including a frequently asked questions page, tutorials, and blogs with helpful information on their support website. You can also find a lot of guides and tips with screenshots and even videos. Moreover, you can contact them via 24/7 live chat or email tickets.

ExpressVPN Review Verdict: is ExpressVPN Worth it?

ExpressVPN is a secure VPN offering great service, especially for those looking to unblock video streaming services. The app not only works well but also has a wide choice of servers, solid support and plenty of step-by-step guides for installation on devices. While price remains its biggest drawback starting from $8.32 for some people, it’s a polished, powerful and professional service. 

How to Sign Up With ExpressVPN?

To get started with ExpressVPN;

• Go to the website and click the get ExpressVPN button
• Chose a plan and enter your email address
• Select your payment method
• Set up your password
• Confirm your email address and download the app
• Start using the app

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ExpressVPN vs. TorGuard

TorGuard Summary

• Wireguard tunneling protocols
• Lots of DNS options
• Great for torrenting
• 12 simultaneous connections

TorGuard is a veteran VPN provider in China and provides fairly reliable access to the free and open internet from the mainland. Like ExpressVPN, TorGuard uses secure AES-256 encryption, native apps for every commonly used platform, kill-switch feature, and 24-hr chat support features. 

Compared to ExpressVPN, that’s based out of the British Virgin Islands, TorGuard is based in the US. Since TorGuard doesn’t have a good country and server count, it cannot compete with ExpressVPN’s number of countries offered and a number of servers. More so, TorGuard does work on Netflix; something ExpressVPN does well.

ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN

NordVPN Summary

• Awesome customers support
• Affordable pricing from $3.41 to $11.99 per month
• Excellent performance speed
• User-friendly interface

NordVPN is one of the best VPNs that gives you access to secure internet and personal information or work files. While both software offers Split Tunneling features, ExpressVPN offers more compatibility. For instance, NordVPN only supports Windows and Android only. 

In terms of security, Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer top-notch security and privacy using military-grade encryption and industry-standard tunneling protocols in OpenVPN and IKEv2. ExpressVPN also allows torrenting on all servers and is available in 94 countries compared to NordVPN, which is available in 59 countries.

ExpressVPN vs. PureVPN

PureVPN Summary

• Unblocks popular streaming sites
• Excellent torrenting speeds
• User-friendly interface
• Easy to install and configure

PureVPN is a Virtual Private Network service that provides secured access using 256-bit encryption and anonymous and unrestricted browsing with your IP address. Like ExpressVPN, PureVPN offers encryption, multiple security protocols, kill switches, split tunneling, and IPv6leak protection. 

Both VPNs use a fairly standard pricing plan and offer three different subscription options. While PureVPN has 6500+ servers across 70+ countries, ExpressVPN has 3000+ servers in 94+ countries. PureVPN has a 7-day trial for $0.99, while ExpressVPN lacks.

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ExpressVPN FAQ

Does ExpressVPN affect your connection?

No. With ExpressVPN, there is no monthly data cap and no ISP service throttling.

Why doesn’t my ExpressVPN desktop app automatically update?

ExpressVPN desktop apps do not automatically update. To update your app, download and run the installer of the newest version of the app for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

How many devices can be connected to ExpressVPN?

You can connect up to 5 devices with ExpressVPN with any plan.

Is ExpressVPN secure?

ExpressVPN uses AES 256-bit encryption and the safest VPN protocols. It also has a kill switch feature to ensure you never have to go unprotected.

Does ExpressVPN work with Netflix?

Yes. You can watch Netflix with ExpressVPN and access the Netflix offers.

Before deleting your ExpressVPN account, ensure that your subscription has been cancelled to avoid being charged. You may cancel it via the website, Apple App Store, or Google Play Store. You may also cancel by contacting Support via live chat.