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ExpressVPN vs AVG VPN 2026: One Clear Winner (My Honest Take)

by | Last updated Mar 11, 2026

Winner
ExpressVPN
4.6
  • 3,000+ Servers in 105 Countries
  • 18 Independent Security Audits
  • RAM-Only TrustedServer Tech
  • Lightway Protocol for Speed
  • Password Manager Included
  • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
  • Paid Plans from $2.44/mo
Runner Up
AVG VPN logo
3.6
  • Antivirus + VPN Bundle
  • AES-256 Military Encryption
  • 50+ Server Locations
  • 10 Devices at Once
  • 60-Day Free Trial (Windows)
  • Kill Switch on Desktop
  • Paid Plans from $4.99/month

📊 Our Test Results:

  • 🎯 Server Network: ExpressVPN 3,000+ in 105 countries vs AVG VPN 50+ locations — ExpressVPN wins
  • Speed Test: ExpressVPN ~25% speed loss vs AVG VPN ~24% loss on nearby servers — Tie
  • 🔒 Privacy Policy: ExpressVPN verified no-logs (18 audits) vs AVG VPN logs connection dataExpressVPN wins
  • 📝 Streaming Access: ExpressVPN unblocks 100+ services vs AVG VPN mixed Netflix results — ExpressVPN wins
  • 💰 Value for Money: ExpressVPN from $2.44/mo vs AVG VPN from $4.99/month — ExpressVPN wins
expressvpn vs avg vpn

Picking the right VPN can feel overwhelming.

ExpressVPN and AVG VPN both promise to protect your privacy online.

But one of them falls short in key areas.

I tested both ExpressVPN vs AVG VPN side by side for three weeks.

ExpressVPN won 8 out of 10 categories.

Keep reading to find out why — and when AVG VPN is still worth it.

Overview

To give you the most fair comparison, I tested ExpressVPN and AVG VPN head-to-head.

I spent weeks checking speeds, security, streaming, and privacy policies.

I also dug into pricing, server counts, and real user reviews.

Here’s my firsthand experience to help you make the right call.

What is ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service based in the British Virgin Islands.

It runs over 3,000 servers across 105 countries.

The company uses RAM-only servers that wipe all data on every reboot.

ExpressVPN has passed 18 independent security audits.

Its custom Lightway protocol gives you fast and stable connections.

ExpressVPN Review: Worth the Hype or Overrated?

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN keeps you private with AES-256 encryption, 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, and a strict no-logs policy backed by 18 audits. Plans start at just $2.44/mo on the 2-year deal.

ExpressVPN Pricing

Here’s what ExpressVPN costs in 2026.

PlanPriceBest For
Basic$2.44/moBudget users who want core VPN features
Advanced$3.14/moMost users who need password manager + ID alerts
Pro$5.24/moPower users who want dedicated IP + data removal
ExpressVPN pricing

Free trial: 7-day free trial on iOS and Android. No credit card required.

Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.

📌 Note: The Basic plan covers 10 devices. Advanced covers 12. Pro covers 14. All plans include the Lightway protocol and TrustedServer tech.

⚠️ Warning: Monthly plans cost $9.99 to $13.99. You save up to 81% by picking the 2-year plan. Auto-renewal kicks in after your term ends.

Key Benefits of ExpressVPN

Here’s why ExpressVPN stands out from the crowd:

  • Massive Server Network: Over 3,000 servers in 105 countries. You can connect from almost anywhere on the planet.
  • Verified No-Logs Policy: 18 independent audits confirm ExpressVPN keeps zero logs. Your browsing stays private.
  • TrustedServer Technology: Every server runs on RAM only. All data is wiped clean on each reboot.
  • Lightway Protocol: ExpressVPN’s custom protocol delivers fast speeds with strong encryption. It even supports post-quantum protection.
  • Streaming Unlocker: Works with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and 100+ other services. No server-swapping hassle.
  • Built-in Password Manager: ExpressVPN Keys comes free on Advanced and Pro plans. It secures all your logins.
  • Cross-Platform Apps: Works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, smart TVs, routers, and gaming consoles.
ExpressVPN homepage

ExpressVPN Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
  • 3,000+ servers in 105 countries for global reach
  • 18 independent audits prove its no-logs policy
  • RAM-only TrustedServer wipes data on every reboot
  • Fast Lightway protocol with post-quantum encryption
  • Unblocks 100+ streaming services including Netflix
❌ Cons
  • More expensive than budget VPNs like Surfshark
  • No free plan available (only 7-day mobile trial)
  • Identity Defender features only work in the US

What is AVG VPN?

AVG VPN is a VPN service made by AVG Technologies, now part of the Avast group.

It offers 50+ server locations with AES-256 encryption.

AVG is best known for its antivirus software.

The VPN comes bundled with AVG Ultimate or as a standalone product.

It works on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

AVG Secure VPN Review 2026 🔥 100% BRUTALLY HONEST REVIEW!

AVG VPN

AVG Secure VPN gives you basic online privacy with military-grade encryption. It bundles well with AVG antivirus tools. Supports up to 10 devices with a generous 60-day free trial on Windows.

AVG VPN Pricing

Here’s what AVG VPN costs in 2026.

PlanPriceBest For
AVG Antivirus FreeFreeBasic virus protection (no VPN)
AVG Internet Security$4.99/monthAntivirus + web protection
AVG Ultimate$4.99/monthFull suite with VPN, TuneUp, and antivirus
AVG VPN Pricing

Free trial: 60-day free trial on Windows. 7-day free trial on other platforms.

Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on paid plans.

📌 Note: AVG VPN is included in the AVG Ultimate bundle. You can also buy it standalone starting at $4.99/month. All plans support up to 10 devices.

⚠️ Warning: AVG only offers annual billing. There’s no month-to-month option. Prices may increase at renewal. Watch for auto-renewal charges.

Key Benefits of AVG VPN

Here’s why some users pick AVG VPN:

  • Antivirus Bundle: AVG Ultimate packs antivirus, VPN, and TuneUp together. One price covers multiple tools.
  • Easy Setup: The app is simple enough for total beginners. Just pick a server and click connect.
  • Owns Its Servers: AVG runs all its own servers. No third-party server providers means fewer backdoor risks.
  • Generous Free Trial: You get 60 days free on Windows. That’s double what most VPNs offer.
  • Leak Protection: AVG VPN passes DNS, IP, and WebRTC leak tests. Your real location stays hidden.
  • 10-Device Support: Connect up to 10 devices with a single account. Great for families.
AVG VPN Homepage

AVG VPN Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
  • Bundles antivirus, VPN, and TuneUp in one package
  • 60-day free trial on Windows (no credit card needed)
  • Clean DNS and IP leak test results
  • Very beginner-friendly interface
❌ Cons
  • Logs connection data including timestamps and IP addresses
  • Only 50+ server locations (vs 105 for ExpressVPN)
  • Inconsistent streaming unblocking results
  • No split tunneling on desktop
  • Based in a Nine Eyes country (Czech Republic)

Feature Comparison

Ready for a detailed breakdown of ExpressVPN vs AVG VPN?

We’ll compare 10 key features to help you pick the right VPN.

FeatureExpressVPNAVG VPN
Starting Price$2.44/mo$4.99/month
Free Plan❌ (7-day mobile trial)❌ (60-day Windows trial)
Server Network3,000+ in 105 countries50+ locations
No-Logs Policy✅ (18 audits)❌ (logs connection data)
Kill Switch✅ All platforms✅ Windows & Mac only
Split Tunneling❌ (desktop)
Streaming Unblock✅ 100+ services⚠️ Mixed results
Password Manager✅ (Advanced/Pro)
Antivirus Bundle
Best ForPrivacy, streaming, speedAVG antivirus users

1. Server Network

ExpressVPN: Runs over 3,000 servers in 105 countries. This is one of the largest networks in the VPN industry. You can connect from nearly any region on earth.

How to use a VPN | ExpressVPN

AVG VPN: Offers 50+ server locations worldwide. That’s a much smaller footprint. You may not find servers in less popular regions.

AVG VPN 50+ Server Locations

2. Privacy and Logging Policy

ExpressVPN: Based in the British Virgin Islands with a strict no-logs policy. It has been verified by 18 independent audits. Its TrustedServer tech wipes all data on every server reboot.

AVG VPN: Based in the Czech Republic, a Nine Eyes country. AVG logs connection timestamps, bandwidth usage, and partial IP addresses. Data is retained for up to 2 years.

⚠️ Warning: AVG’s logging policy is a dealbreaker for privacy-focused users. If hiding your online activity is your main goal, ExpressVPN is the safer choice.

3. Speed and Performance

ExpressVPN: Uses the Lightway protocol for fast and stable connections. Speed loss averages around 25% on most servers. It can hit over 1,000 Mbps on nearby servers.

AVG VPN: Decent speeds on nearby servers with about 11-24% speed loss. But distant servers can drop speeds by up to 77%. Windows users may face latency issues.

4. Streaming and Geo-Unblocking

ExpressVPN: Unblocks Netflix in 20+ regions, plus Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and 100+ other platforms. Works on all devices tested. MediaStreamer lets you stream on smart TVs and consoles too.

ExpressVPN Aircove Routers

AVG VPN: Has dedicated streaming servers for Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. But results are mixed. Some regions work, others fail. You may need to try multiple servers.

5. Security Features

ExpressVPN: AES-256 encryption, kill switch on all platforms, DNS leak protection, split tunneling, Threat Manager, ad blocker, tracker blocker, and parental controls on higher plans.

ExpressVPN Threat Manager

AVG VPN: AES-256 encryption, kill switch on Windows and Mac, WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols. But no split tunneling on desktop. No ad blocker or tracker blocker built into the VPN.

6. Device Support

ExpressVPN: Works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Apple TV, Fire TV, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers. Supports 10 to 14 devices depending on your plan.

AVG VPN: Works on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Supports up to 10 devices. No native apps for Linux, smart TVs, or gaming consoles.

AVG VPN Multi-device Support

7. Ad and Tracker Blocking

ExpressVPN: Includes Threat Manager to block trackers from other apps. The Advanced and Pro plans add full ad blocking, tracker blocking, and adult site blocking.

ExpressVPN Ad Blocker

AVG VPN: No built-in ad blocker or tracker blocker in the VPN. However, AVG’s separate AntiTrack product can stop online tracking. It costs extra.

8. Password Manager

ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN Keys is included on Advanced and Pro plans. It stores passwords, generates strong ones, and syncs across devices.

ExpressVPN Keys: A simple, secure password manager

AVG VPN: No password manager included. You would need a separate tool like Bitwarden or LastPass.

9. Customer Support

ExpressVPN: 24/7 live chat and email support. Response times are fast. Support agents know their stuff about VPN issues.

AVG VPN: Has 24/7 support but with limited channels. Live chat can be hard to find. The support team has limited VPN-specific knowledge.

AVG VPN AVG Secure Identity

10. Pricing & Cost

Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.

PlanExpressVPNAVG VPN
Free❌ (60-day trial)
Entry Level$2.44/mo (Basic)$4.99/month
Mid Tier$3.14/mo (Advanced)$4.99/month (Ultimate)
Top Tier$5.24/mo (Pro)N/A

ExpressVPN: Starts at just $2.44/mo on the 2-year Basic plan. That’s actually cheaper than AVG VPN. You get far more features for less money.

AVG VPN: Starts at $4.99/month with annual billing. You do get antivirus and TuneUp bundled in with AVG Ultimate. But the VPN alone is pricier than ExpressVPN Basic.

💡 Test Result: ExpressVPN Basic costs $2.55 less per month than AVG VPN. You get 3,000+ servers, a verified no-logs policy, and better streaming access for less money.

Different Scenarios

If You Need…ChooseWhy
Tight budgetExpressVPN$2.44/mo vs $4.99/month
Maximum privacyExpressVPN18 audits, no logs, BVI jurisdiction
Streaming NetflixExpressVPNWorks with 100+ platforms
Antivirus + VPN bundleAVG VPNAVG Ultimate packs both together
Longest free trialAVG VPN60-day free trial on Windows
Most server locationsExpressVPN105 countries vs 50+ locations
Beginner-friendlyAVG VPNSimple click-and-connect design

💰 Your Budget

ExpressVPN Basic costs $2.44/mo on a 2-year plan. AVG VPN starts at $4.99/month. ExpressVPN gives you more features for less money.

🔌 Your Tech Stack

If you already use AVG antivirus, AVG Ultimate bundles everything. If you want a standalone VPN, ExpressVPN works on more devices and platforms.

📝 Your Privacy Needs

ExpressVPN stores zero logs and proves it with 18 audits. AVG VPN logs connection data for up to 2 years. Choose based on how private you want to be.

🎓 Your Experience Level

Both VPNs are easy to use. AVG is slightly simpler. But ExpressVPN’s app is also very beginner-friendly with one-click connecting.

🆓 Free Trials and Demos

AVG VPN offers a 60-day free trial on Windows. ExpressVPN has a 7-day mobile trial. Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees.

🛟 Support Options

ExpressVPN has fast 24/7 live chat with VPN experts. AVG’s support is harder to reach and less specialized in VPN issues.

Switching Guide

Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.

🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to AVG VPN?

✅ What you’ll gain:

  • Antivirus, VPN, and TuneUp in one bundle
  • 60-day free trial on Windows
  • Self-owned servers with no third-party providers

❌ What you’ll lose:

  • 3,000+ servers in 105 countries (down to 50+ locations)
  • Verified no-logs policy (AVG logs connection data)
  • Reliable streaming on 100+ platforms

📋 How to switch:

  1. Cancel your ExpressVPN subscription before renewal
  2. Download and install AVG Secure VPN or AVG Ultimate
  3. Start the 60-day free trial and test before paying
🔄 Switching from AVG VPN to ExpressVPN?

✅ What you’ll gain:

  • 3,000+ servers in 105 countries for global access
  • Strict no-logs policy backed by 18 audits
  • Reliable streaming on Netflix, Disney+, and 100+ more

❌ What you’ll lose:

  • Bundled antivirus and TuneUp tools
  • 60-day Windows free trial (ExpressVPN offers 7-day mobile trial)
  • Self-owned server infrastructure

📋 How to switch:

  1. Cancel your AVG subscription and disable auto-renewal
  2. Sign up for ExpressVPN with the 30-day money-back guarantee
  3. Download ExpressVPN apps on all your devices and connect

Final Verdict

CategoryWinner
💰 PricingExpressVPN
🔒 Privacy & LoggingExpressVPN
🌐 Server NetworkExpressVPN
⚡ SpeedTie
📺 StreamingExpressVPN
🛡️ Security FeaturesExpressVPN
📱 Device SupportExpressVPN
🧩 Extra FeaturesExpressVPN
🛟 Customer SupportExpressVPN
🦠 Antivirus BundleAVG VPN
🏆 Overall WinnerExpressVPN

🏆 WINNER: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN wins 8 out of 10 categories.

Best for: Online privacy, streaming Netflix worldwide, fast browsing, and secure remote work.

ExpressVPN and AVG VPN serve very different types of users.

ExpressVPN is a full-featured VPN built for privacy, speed, and streaming.

AVG VPN is a basic VPN built for users who already use AVG antivirus.

AVG VPN is fine if you just want simple browsing protection.

But if you care about privacy, streaming, or global access, ExpressVPN is the clear winner.

Now go out and browse the web with confidence!

More of ExpressVPN Compared

Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against other competitors:

ExpressVPN vs NordVPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Server country coverage, Lightway protocol speed

NordVPN wins on: More total servers, lower pricing

ExpressVPN vs PureVPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, audited no-logs policy

PureVPN wins on: Lower price, port forwarding

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark VPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Faster speeds, more server countries

Surfshark VPN wins on: Unlimited devices, cheaper pricing

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming access, app design

ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, open-source apps

ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Server network, security audits

PrivadoVPN wins on: Budget pricing, free plan

ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Server count, streaming support

AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking, lower price

ExpressVPN vs Virtual Shield

ExpressVPN wins on: Global server network, privacy audits

Virtual Shield wins on: US-focused servers, identity protection

ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, app quality, streaming

StrongVPN wins on: Simple flat pricing

ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed tests, server network, support

FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plans, budget price

ExpressVPN vs Aura VPN

ExpressVPN wins on: VPN features, server count, speed

Aura VPN wins on: Identity theft protection bundle

ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, privacy jurisdiction, streaming

CyberGhost wins on: Larger server count, cheaper plans

ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN

ExpressVPN wins on: VPN-specific features, no-logs policy

McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled antivirus suite

ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, easier interface, streaming

PIA wins on: Budget price, open-source apps

ExpressVPN vs Mysterium

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, reliability, support

Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use

ExpressVPN vs SafeShell VPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Global server network, audited privacy

SafeShell VPN wins on: Niche censorship bypass tools

ExpressVPN vs Oyster VPN

ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, security audits

Oyster VPN wins on: Lower pricing

More of AVG VPN Compared

Here’s how AVG VPN stacks up against other competitors:

AVG VPN vs NordVPN

AVG VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, 60-day trial

NordVPN wins on: Speed, server count, no-logs policy

AVG VPN vs PureVPN

AVG VPN wins on: Bundled security suite, ease of use

PureVPN wins on: Server network, port forwarding

AVG VPN vs Surfshark VPN

AVG VPN wins on: Antivirus included, self-owned servers

Surfshark VPN wins on: Unlimited devices, better privacy

AVG VPN vs ProtonVPN

AVG VPN wins on: Bundled TuneUp tools

ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss privacy, no logs

AVG VPN vs PrivadoVPN

AVG VPN wins on: Brand recognition, antivirus bundle

PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, better logging policy

AVG VPN vs AdGuard VPN

AVG VPN wins on: Security suite bundle, kill switch

AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking, privacy policy

AVG VPN vs Virtual Shield

AVG VPN wins on: Cross-platform apps, free trial

Virtual Shield wins on: US-focused features, identity tools

AVG VPN vs StrongVPN

AVG VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, generous trial

StrongVPN wins on: Better streaming, no-logs policy

AVG VPN vs FastestVPN

AVG VPN wins on: Bundled security tools

FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime deals, cheaper pricing

AVG VPN vs Aura VPN

AVG VPN wins on: Self-owned servers, TuneUp tools

Aura VPN wins on: Better identity protection

AVG VPN vs CyberGhost

AVG VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle

CyberGhost wins on: Server count, streaming, no-logs

AVG VPN vs McAfee VPN

AVG VPN wins on: Self-owned servers, leak protection

McAfee VPN wins on: Larger server network, identity tools

AVG VPN vs Private Internet Access

AVG VPN wins on: Bundled antivirus, 60-day trial

PIA wins on: Open-source, better privacy, more servers

AVG VPN vs Mysterium VPN

AVG VPN wins on: Ease of use, security bundle

Mysterium VPN wins on: Decentralized, pay-per-use model

AVG VPN vs SafeShell VPN

AVG VPN wins on: Brand trust, antivirus bundle

SafeShell VPN wins on: Censorship bypass features

AVG VPN vs Oyster VPN

AVG VPN wins on: Bundled tools, self-owned servers

Oyster VPN wins on: Budget pricing, better streaming

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the downside of ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is more expensive than budget VPNs. It also lacks a free plan. The Identity Defender features only work for US users.

Is AVG VPN any good?

AVG VPN is decent for casual browsing and public Wi-Fi safety. But it logs connection data and has a small server network. It’s not ideal for privacy or streaming.

Is ExpressVPN good for streaming?

Yes. ExpressVPN unblocks Netflix in 20+ regions, plus Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and over 100 other platforms. It works reliably on all devices.

Does AVG VPN work with Netflix?

AVG VPN can access some Netflix regions. But results are mixed. It may fail on certain libraries like Canada or Australia.

How much does ExpressVPN cost?

ExpressVPN starts at $2.44/mo on the 2-year Basic plan. The Advanced plan is $3.14/mo. The Pro plan costs $5.24/mo. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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