ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN serve different masters. Find out whether premium streaming or privacy-focused security is right for you.
ExpressVPN
Premium performance, trusted worldwide
ProtonVPN
Privacy-first VPN from the makers of ProtonMail
Here's a comparison that doesn't get enough attention. ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN target two very different kinds of users, but they actually overlap more than you'd expect on price (ProtonVPN's paid plans aren't that cheap). I've been using ExpressVPN for travel and streaming for years, and ProtonVPN for sensitive work. They each have clear strengths and honest weaknesses.
Head-to-Head: ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
| Category | ExpressVPN | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5/5✓ | 4.3/5 |
| Starting Price | $8.32 | $4.99✓ |
| Servers | 3,000 | 3,200✓ |
| Countries | 105✓ | 71 |
| Max Devices | 8 | 10✓ |
| Speed | 4.6/5✓ | 4/5 |
| Streaming | 5/5 platforms✓ | 0/5 platforms |
| Privacy | 6 features | 6 features✓ |
ExpressVPN wins for most users thanks to superior streaming support and faster speeds.
ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Pros & Cons
ExpressVPN Pros
- +Consistently fast and reliable connections
- +Best-in-class streaming unblocking
- +TrustedServer technology (RAM-only servers)
- +24/7 live chat support that actually helps
ProtonVPN Pros
- +Free tier with no data caps (best in class)
- +Strong privacy pedigree — based in Switzerland
- +Open-source apps and publicly audited
- +Secure Core servers protect against network attacks
Verdict: Which Is Better?
ExpressVPN is the better choice for the vast majority of people. It's faster, more reliable for streaming, and has a larger server network. ProtonVPN only makes sense if privacy is your absolute top priority — and I mean top priority. The Swiss jurisdiction, open-source apps, and Secure Core architecture are genuinely best-in-class for privacy. But for watching Netflix, gaming, or everyday browsing, ExpressVPN is simply better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ExpressVPN faster than ProtonVPN?
Yes, significantly. ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol delivers consistently fast speeds. ProtonVPN's paid plans are decent but can't match ExpressVPN's performance.
Does ProtonVPN have a free tier?
Yes, and it's one of the best free VPNs available — no data cap, no ads. But free servers are slower and more crowded than paid ones.
Which VPN is more private?
ProtonVPN. Its Swiss jurisdiction, transparent open-source code, and Secure Core servers provide stronger privacy guarantees than ExpressVPN.