ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Which Is Better Tool in 2025?

Choosing the right VPN can feel like picking a lock – tricky and a little stressful!

You want something secure and reliable, but also easy to use.

Two of the biggest names in the game are ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN.

Both promise to keep your online activity private and unlock geo-restricted content, but which one comes out on top?

In this comparison, we’ll break down the features and performance of ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN to help you decide which is the better tool for you.

Overview

To give you the most accurate comparison, we’ve spent weeks testing both ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN.

We’ve evaluated their speed, security features, streaming capabilities, and overall user experience to help you make an informed decision.

What is ExpressVPN?

Now, let’s talk about ExpressVPN. This one’s a real speed demon!

They’re known for having super-fast connections, perfect for streaming or downloading large files. 

They also have servers in 94 countries, so you have many options for finding a server that meets your needs. 

And don’t even get me started on their security features. They’re top-notch!

Also, explore our favorite ExpressVPN alternatives…

Key Benefits

• Blazing-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming and downloading.
• Extensive server network: Connect to servers in 94 countries.
• Best-in-class security: Features include AES-256 encryption and a kill switch.
• User-friendly apps: Easy to set up and use on all your devices.

Pricing

• 2 years + 4 Months Free: $4.99/month.
• 12 Months + 3 Months Free: $6.67/month
• 1 Month: $12.95/month.

What is ProtonVPN?

Want a VPN that’s serious about privacy? Eck out ProtonVPN.

They’re based in Switzerland. This means that they have strong privacy laws. 

They also have some unique security features. Us, they offer a free version. Bad, huh?

Also, explore our favorite Proton alternatives…

Key Benefits

• Security-focused features: Secure Core servers and strong encryption.
• Privacy-conscious: Strict no-logs policy.
• NetShield ad-blocker: Blocks ads and malware.
• Open source apps: Transparency and community audits.
• A free version is available: Test it out before you commit.

Pricing

• 2-year: $2.99/month.
• 1-year: $4.99/month.
• 1-month: $9.99/month.

Feature Comparison

Let’s dive deep and compare the core features that make or break a VPN service.

This head-to-head matchup will help you see where ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN shine and where they might fall short.

So, whether you’re looking for the best VPN for streaming or online gaming, this comparison will help you decide between ExpressVPN or ProtonVPN.

1. VPN Protocols

• ExpressVPN: Offers a wide range of protocols, including its own super-fast Lightway protocol, along with OpenVPN and IKEv2. This gives you flexibility and strong security for your VPN connection.
• ProtonVPN: Utilizes OpenVPN and IKEv2, both solid and reliable protocols. However, it lacks a proprietary protocol like ExpressVPN’s Lightway.

2. VPN Servers

• ExpressVPN: Boasts a vast network of 3,000+ VPN servers in 94 countries, giving you plenty of options for bypassing geo-restrictions and finding a fast connection.
• ProtonVPN: Has a smaller network with 2,900+ VPN servers in 60+ countries. While still a decent number, it offers less choice compared to ExpressVPN.

3. VPN Speed

• ExpressVPN: Consistently ranks among the fastest VPNs, thanks to its optimized network and Lightway protocol. Expect smooth streaming and quick downloads with excellent VPN speed.
• ProtonVPN: Offers decent VPN speed, but generally doesn’t match ExpressVPN’s performance. You might experience some slowdown, especially on distant servers.

4. Security Features

• ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN: Both VPN providers prioritize security with AES-256 encryption, a kill switch (to protect your data if the VPN connection drops), and a no-logs policy. They offer good protection against online threats.
• ExpressVPN also: Includes split tunneling, allowing you to choose which apps use the VPN connection.

5. Streaming and Bypassing Geo-blocks

• ExpressVPN: Excels at unblocking streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. It’s a reliable choice for accessing geo-restricted content.
• ProtonVPN: Can unblock some streaming platforms, but it’s not as consistent as ExpressVPN. You might encounter some VPN blocks on certain services.

6. Gaming

• ExpressVPN: Provides low latency and fast speeds, making it a good choice for gaming. You’ll experience minimal lag and smooth gameplay.
• ProtonVPN also: Can be used for gaming, but its speeds might not be ideal for competitive online games where every millisecond counts.

7. Customer Support

• ExpressVPN: Provides 24/7 live chat support, ensuring you can get help anytime you need it. Their support team is known for being responsive and knowledgeable.
• ProtonVPN: Offers email support and a comprehensive knowledge base. However, they lack live chat, which can be inconvenient if you need immediate assistance.

Final Verdict

In this ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN comparison, we’ve explored the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of both providers.

We’ve even considered their approach to privacy, such as whether they have a strict no-logs policy and where their VPN is based.

While ProtonVPN also has its merits, such as strong security, Proton VPN’s free plan (Proton VPN has a free plan!), and the fact that Proton is based in Switzerland, ExpressVPN comes out on top as the better overall choice.

ExpressVPN offers better speed (it’s much faster than Proton VPN), a wider server network, and superior streaming capabilities.

Consider what’s important to you when choosing between ExpressVPN or Proton VPN.

If you’re concerned about privacy, you might prefer Proton VPN. If speed is your priority, ExpressVPN is the clear winner.

More of ExpressVPN

Here’s a quick look at how ExpressVPN stacks up against alternatives:

• ExpressVPN vs NordVPN: ExpressVPN: user-friendly, fast. NordVPN: more features, sometimes better price.
• ExpressVPN vs PureVPN: ExpressVPN: faster, more reliable for streaming, better privacy.
• ExpressVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark: unlimited connections, cheaper long-term. ExpressVPN: faster, more server locations.
• ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN: ExpressVPN offers better performance, is easier to use, and has more servers. PrivadoVPN is budget-friendly and privacy-focused.
• ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN: ExpressVPN is: comprehensive VPN. AdGuard VPN: unique ad-blocking integration.
• ExpressVPN vs Virtual Shield: ExpressVPN: more features, better performance.
• ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN: Both have strong encryption. ExpressVPN: larger network, broader compatibility.
• ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN: ExpressVPN: faster, more servers. FastestVPN: budget-friendly.
• ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN: ExpressVPN focuses on VPN. AuraVPN includes identity theft protection.
• ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost: ExpressVPN: faster, more consistent for streaming. CyberGhost: user-friendly, specialized servers.
• ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN: ExpressVPN is: dedicated VPN with more features, better performance.
• ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access: ExpressVPN: user-friendly, better for streaming. PIA: customizable privacy settings.
• ExpressVPN vs Mysterium: ExpressVPN: traditional, reliable servers. Mysterium: decentralized network.

More of ProtonVPN

We’ve explored alternatives to ProtonVPN, so how does ProtonVPN stack up directly against them?

• ProtonVPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN generally offers faster speeds and a larger server network, while ProtonVPN focuses more on privacy and has a free plan with no data limits.
• ProtonVPN vs PureVPN: ProtonVPN is generally considered better overall with faster speeds and stronger security, while PureVPN boasts a larger server count.
• ProtonVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark is often more affordable and allows unlimited connections, while ProtonVPN is known for slightly faster speeds and stronger privacy features.
• ProtonVPN vs PrivadoVPN: ProtonVPN offers a wider server network and a stronger focus on privacy, while PrivadoVPN provides a decent free plan and good speeds.
• ProtonVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN’s strength is its ad-blocking integration, while ProtonVPN is a more comprehensive VPN that focuses on security and privacy.
• ProtonVPN vs Virtual Shield: ProtonVPN offers more advanced security features and better performance than the simpler Virtual Shield.
• ProtonVPN vs StrongVPN: ProtonVPN generally has better speeds and a larger server network, while StrongVPN is known for strong encryption.
• ProtonVPN vs FastestVPN: ProtonVPN is typically faster and offers stronger privacy features compared to the budget-friendly FastestVPN.
• ProtonVPN vs AuraVPN: ProtonVPN focuses on VPN security and privacy, while AuraVPN includes identity theft protection.
• ProtonVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost is user-friendly with specialized servers, while ProtonVPN emphasizes security and privacy with features like Secure Core.
• ProtonVPN vs McAfee VPN: ProtonVPN is a dedicated VPN service with stronger security and privacy features than the basic VPN included with McAfee.
• ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA is known for customization and a large server network, while ProtonVPN focuses on strong privacy and a transparent approach.
• ProtonVPN vs Mysterium: ProtonVPN uses a traditional server network known for security and speed, while Mysterium is a decentralized VPN.

Frequently Asked Questions