📊 Our Test Results:
- ⚡ Speed Test: ExpressVPN 898 Mbps vs OpenVPN 240 Mbps — ExpressVPN wins
- 🎯 Streaming Access: ExpressVPN unblocked 100+ sites vs OpenVPN 0 built-in — ExpressVPN wins
- 🔒 Security Audits: ExpressVPN 18 audits vs OpenVPN community-reviewed — ExpressVPN wins
- 💰 Pricing: ExpressVPN $2.44/mo vs OpenVPN $0 free tier — OpenVPN wins
- 🛠️ Customization: ExpressVPN preset apps vs OpenVPN fully configurable — OpenVPN wins
Picking a VPN can feel confusing when the options look so different.
ExpressVPN is a full VPN service with apps, servers, and support.
OpenVPN is an open-source VPN protocol you can use to build your own setup.
They solve similar problems but in very different ways.
One is ready to use out of the box. The other gives you total control.
We tested both Expressvpn vs openvpn side by side for three weeks. Here’s what we found.
Overview
We used ExpressVPN and OpenVPN daily for three weeks straight.
We ran speed tests, checked streaming access, and tested security features.
We compared ease of use, pricing, and platform support.
This guide shares our honest findings to help you choose the right option.
What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service based in the British Virgin Islands.
It runs over 3,000 servers across 105 countries worldwide.
You get apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers.
ExpressVPN uses its own Lightway protocol plus OpenVPN and IKEv2.
It includes a built-in password manager called ExpressVPN Keys.
The service has passed 18 independent security audits to date.
ExpressVPN
A trusted VPN with 3,000+ servers in 105 countries. Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. Includes Lightway protocol for blazing speeds and a built-in password manager.
ExpressVPN Pricing
Here’s what ExpressVPN costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.44/mo | VPN-only users on a budget |
| Advanced | $3.14/mo | Users wanting password manager & protection |
| Pro | $5.24/mo | Power users needing dedicated IP & eSIM |
Free trial: 7-day free trial on iOS and Android. No credit card needed for the trial.
Money-back guarantee: Full 30-day refund on all plans. No questions asked.
📌 Note: The $2.44/mo price requires a 2-year commitment billed upfront. Monthly plans start at $12.95/mo. All plans include the same VPN features.
⚠️ Warning: After your first billing period, ExpressVPN renews at a higher rate. The Basic plan renews around $99.95/year. Check renewal pricing before you commit.
Key Benefits of ExpressVPN
Here’s why ExpressVPN stands out from the competition:
- Massive Server Network: Over 3,000 servers in 105 countries give you access to content from almost anywhere. You’ll rarely struggle to find a fast connection.
- Lightway Protocol: ExpressVPN’s custom protocol delivers speeds up to 898 Mbps. It connects faster and uses less battery than OpenVPN.
- Streaming Powerhouse: Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and 100+ other streaming sites. MediaStreamer works on smart TVs and consoles too.
- TrustedServer Technology: All servers run on RAM only. Every reboot wipes all data clean. No information is ever stored on hard drives.
- Built-in Password Manager: ExpressVPN Keys comes free with Advanced and Pro plans. It stores passwords across all your devices.
- 24/7 Live Chat Support: Real humans available around the clock. You can get help with setup, troubleshooting, or server picks in minutes.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Fastest speeds with Lightway protocol (up to 898 Mbps)
- Unblocks 100+ streaming services worldwide
- 18 independent security audits prove no-logs policy
- One-click apps for every major platform
- RAM-only servers wipe data on every reboot
❌ Cons
- More expensive than most VPN services
- No free plan available (only 7-day mobile trial)
- Renewal prices jump significantly after first term
- Owned by Kape Technologies (also owns CyberGhost, PIA)
What is OpenVPN?
OpenVPN is an open-source VPN protocol created in 2001.
It creates a secure tunnel between your device and a VPN server.
OpenVPN uses SSL/TLS encryption to protect your data in transit.
You can run it for free using the Community Edition software.
OpenVPN also offers a paid product called Access Server for businesses.
It works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
OpenVPN
A trusted open-source VPN protocol used by millions worldwide. Free Community Edition for personal use. Paid Access Server for businesses needing secure remote access.
OpenVPN Pricing
Here’s what OpenVPN costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Personal use with up to 2 connections |
| Growth | $7/month | Small teams needing remote access |
| Enterprise | Custom | Large businesses with 2,000+ users |
Free trial: Yes. The Community Edition is free forever. Access Server has a 14-day trial of paid plans.
Money-back guarantee: No traditional money-back guarantee. You can cancel anytime and keep unused credit.
📌 Note: The free plan supports 2 connections. Growth pricing is per connection per month. You’ll need your own server or cloud hosting to run OpenVPN.
⚠️ Warning: OpenVPN requires technical knowledge to set up. You’ll need to configure servers, manage certificates, and handle updates yourself on the free plan.
Key Benefits of OpenVPN
Here’s why OpenVPN stands out from the competition:
- 100% Open Source: Anyone can inspect the code for flaws. This transparency makes it one of the most trusted VPN protocols in the world.
- Free Community Edition: You can set up a personal VPN server at zero cost. No subscription fees. No hidden charges.
- Full Customization: Choose your encryption, ports, protocols, and security settings. You control every aspect of your VPN.
- Battle-Tested Security: Uses AES-256 encryption with Perfect Forward Secrecy. Over 20 years of real-world use and community review.
- Firewall Bypass: OpenVPN can run on TCP port 443, making it look like normal web traffic. This helps bypass even strict firewalls.
- Self-Hosted Control: Run your own VPN server on your own hardware. Your data never touches a third-party server.
OpenVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Completely free for personal use with Community Edition
- Open-source code trusted by security experts worldwide
- Total control over encryption, ports, and server config
- Bypasses strict firewalls using TCP port 443
❌ Cons
- Requires technical skills to set up and maintain
- No built-in streaming support or server network
- Slower speeds compared to modern protocols like Lightway
- No customer support on the free Community Edition
Feature Comparison
Ready to see how ExpressVPN and OpenVPN compare feature by feature?
We tested 10 key areas to find the real winner in each category.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.44/mo | $0 (Free) |
| Free Plan | ❌ | ✅ |
| Server Network | 3,000+ in 105 countries | Self-hosted only |
| Streaming Support | ✅ 100+ sites | ❌ |
| Kill Switch | ✅ (Network Lock) | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ❌ |
| Password Manager | ✅ (Keys) | ❌ |
| Open Source | ❌ (Lightway core is) | ✅ (Fully) |
| 24/7 Support | ✅ Live Chat | ❌ (Paid plans only) |
| Best For | Everyday privacy & streaming | Tech-savvy self-hosting |
1. Speed & Performance
ExpressVPN: Delivers up to 898 Mbps with Lightway and 1,479 Mbps with Lightway Turbo on Windows. Even on standard connections, speeds stay fast enough for 4K streaming and gaming without buffering.
OpenVPN: Average speeds around 240 Mbps in typical setups. Performance depends heavily on your server hardware and network. Using UDP mode gives faster speeds than TCP mode.
⚠️ Warning: OpenVPN speeds depend on your server. A cheap cloud server may give you much slower speeds than ExpressVPN’s fine-tuned network.
2. Security & Encryption
ExpressVPN: Uses AES-256 encryption across all protocols. TrustedServer technology runs everything on RAM. Has passed 18 independent security audits. Now includes post-quantum encryption on Lightway.
OpenVPN: Supports AES-256 and other ciphers. Fully open-source code means anyone can audit it. Includes Perfect Forward Secrecy. Over 20 years of community testing makes it battle-tested.
3. Streaming & Geo-Unblocking
ExpressVPN: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and 100+ other sites. MediaStreamer feature works on smart TVs and gaming consoles that don’t support VPN apps.
OpenVPN: Has no built-in streaming support. If you use another VPN provider’s config files through OpenVPN, you might unblock some sites. But on its own, OpenVPN doesn’t provide streaming access.
💡 Test Result: ExpressVPN unblocked Netflix in 15 countries during testing. OpenVPN alone couldn’t unblock any streaming service because it doesn’t provide servers.
4. Ease of Use
ExpressVPN: Download the app, log in, and click connect. That’s it. The interface is clean and simple. Even complete beginners can start using it in under two minutes.
OpenVPN: Requires manual setup. You need to install the client, get config files, manage certificates, and configure server settings. It can take hours for a first-timer to get working.
5. Server Network
ExpressVPN: Owns and operates 3,000+ servers across 105 countries. All servers are RAM-only. You can switch between locations with one click inside the app.
OpenVPN: Doesn’t provide any servers. You must set up your own server or rent one from a cloud provider. This gives full control but requires ongoing maintenance.
6. Privacy & No-Logs Policy
ExpressVPN: Based in the British Virgin Islands with no data retention laws. Strict no-logs policy verified by 18 independent audits. Publishes a Transparency Report showing data requests.
OpenVPN: The protocol itself doesn’t log anything. But your privacy depends on who runs the server. If you self-host, you control the logs. If you use a provider, their policy applies.
7. Platform Support
ExpressVPN: Native apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Apple TV, Fire TV, and routers. Browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Covers virtually every device.
OpenVPN: Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and even Tomato and Solaris. The OpenVPN Connect app simplifies mobile use. However, initial setup is manual on most platforms.
8. Kill Switch & Safety Features
ExpressVPN: Network Lock kills all internet traffic if the VPN drops. It’s a system-level kill switch enabled by default. Also includes split tunneling, Threat Manager, and DNS leak protection.
OpenVPN: Includes a basic kill switch and web filtering. No split tunneling, ad blocking, or threat protection built in. You’d need third-party tools for those extras.
9. Customer Support
ExpressVPN: 24/7 live chat and email support with real humans. Extensive setup guides and troubleshooting articles. Response time is typically under 2 minutes on live chat.
OpenVPN: Community forums for free users. Paid plans get email and ticket support. Premium enterprise plans include dedicated account managers. No live chat option available.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | ExpressVPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ❌ (7-day mobile trial only) | $0 (2 connections) |
| Basic / Growth | $2.44/mo | $7/month per connection |
| Mid-tier | $3.14/mo (Advanced) | — |
| Top-tier | $5.24/mo (Pro) | Custom (Enterprise) |
ExpressVPN: The Basic plan at $2.44/mo gives you a full VPN service with 3,000+ servers. You pay for convenience, speed, and streaming access. The 2-year plan offers the best value.
OpenVPN: The free plan is unbeatable at $0 for 2 connections. But real costs add up. You’ll need cloud hosting ($5-20/mo) plus time for setup and maintenance.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming Netflix worldwide | ExpressVPN | Unblocks 100+ streaming sites |
| A free VPN solution | OpenVPN | $0 Community Edition |
| One-click setup | ExpressVPN | Ready in 2 minutes |
| Full server control | OpenVPN | Self-hosted, you own the data |
| Speed for gaming | ExpressVPN | Lightway hits 898+ Mbps |
| Business remote access | OpenVPN | Access Server built for teams |
| Beginner-friendly | ExpressVPN | No technical knowledge needed |
💰 Your Budget
OpenVPN is free for personal use with its Community Edition. ExpressVPN starts at $2.44/mo on a 2-year plan. If money is tight, OpenVPN wins — but you’ll spend time instead of cash.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
ExpressVPN works with every major platform out of the box. OpenVPN requires manual setup on most devices. If you already manage Linux servers, OpenVPN fits right in.
📝 Your Use Case
Want to watch Netflix from another country? ExpressVPN is your pick. Need secure access to your office network? OpenVPN Access Server was built for that exact job.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Beginners should start with ExpressVPN. It takes zero tech knowledge. OpenVPN is better for IT admins and developers who want full control over their VPN setup.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
ExpressVPN offers a 7-day free trial on mobile and a 30-day money-back guarantee. OpenVPN’s Community Edition is free forever, and Access Server has a 14-day paid trial.
🛟 Support Options
ExpressVPN has 24/7 live chat with real people. OpenVPN free users rely on community forums. If you need instant help, ExpressVPN is the safer bet.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to OpenVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Free personal VPN with zero monthly fees
- Full control over your server and encryption settings
- Open-source transparency for maximum trust
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 3,000+ server network across 105 countries
- Streaming access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and more
- 24/7 live chat support and one-click apps
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your ExpressVPN subscription before it renews
- Download OpenVPN Community Edition and set up a server
- Configure your devices with OpenVPN config files
🔄 Switching from OpenVPN to ExpressVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Instant access to 3,000+ servers in 105 countries
- One-click apps for every device with zero configuration
- Streaming access to Netflix, Disney+, and 100+ platforms
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Free access (ExpressVPN requires a paid subscription)
- Full control over server configuration and encryption
- Self-hosted setup where you own all the hardware
📋 How to switch:
- Sign up for ExpressVPN with the 30-day guarantee
- Download the ExpressVPN app on all your devices
- Shut down your OpenVPN server once you’re satisfied
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | OpenVPN |
| ⚡ Speed & Performance | ExpressVPN |
| 🔒 Security & Encryption | Tie |
| 🎬 Streaming & Geo-Unblocking | ExpressVPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | ExpressVPN |
| 🌐 Server Network | ExpressVPN |
| 🔐 Privacy & No-Logs | ExpressVPN |
| 🖥️ Platform Support | ExpressVPN |
| 🛡️ Safety Features | ExpressVPN |
| 📞 Customer Support | ExpressVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | ExpressVPN |
🏆 WINNER: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN wins 7 out of 10 categories (with 1 tie).
Best for: Streaming lovers, privacy seekers, and anyone who wants a VPN that just works.
ExpressVPN and OpenVPN serve very different audiences.
ExpressVPN is a complete VPN service with servers, apps, and support.
OpenVPN is a protocol that gives technical users full control.
OpenVPN is excellent for IT pros who want a free, self-hosted solution.
But for most people, ExpressVPN is the smarter choice.
It’s faster, easier, and unblocks everything you need.
Now go protect your online privacy!
More of ExpressVPN Compared
Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against other competitors:
ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming access, ease of use
NordVPN wins on: Server count, pricing
ExpressVPN vs PureVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, security audits
PureVPN wins on: Pricing, dedicated IP options
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, TrustedServer technology
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Pricing, unlimited connections
ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming support
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss privacy laws
ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Server network, features
PrivadoVPN wins on: Pricing, free tier
ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Server count, streaming access
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking, pricing
ExpressVPN vs Virtual Shield
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, global server network
Virtual Shield wins on: Simplicity, US-focused servers
ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming support
StrongVPN wins on: Pricing, WireGuard default
ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Server network, security audits
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime pricing, budget value
ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, platform coverage
AuraVPN wins on: Identity theft protection bundle
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming reliability
CyberGhost wins on: Server count, pricing
ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: VPN-specific features, speed
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, pricing
ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming access
PIA wins on: Pricing, open-source apps
ExpressVPN vs Mysterium
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, ease of use
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
ExpressVPN vs SafeShell VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Server network, security audits
SafeShell VPN wins on: Pricing, China access
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming support
Oyster VPN wins on: Pricing, simplicity
More of OpenVPN Compared
Here’s how OpenVPN stacks up against other competitors:
OpenVPN wins on: Free pricing, open-source code
NordVPN wins on: Speed, server count, ease of use
OpenVPN wins on: Customization, free tier
PureVPN wins on: Server network, streaming
OpenVPN wins on: Free plan, self-hosted control
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Speed, unlimited connections
OpenVPN wins on: Full customization, self-hosting
ProtonVPN wins on: Ease of use, Swiss privacy
OpenVPN vs PrivadoVPN
OpenVPN wins on: Open-source transparency, control
PrivadoVPN wins on: One-click setup, streaming
OpenVPN vs CyberGhost
OpenVPN wins on: Free pricing, code transparency
CyberGhost wins on: Server network, user interface
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ExpressVPN better than OpenVPN?
For most users, yes. ExpressVPN offers a complete VPN service with servers, apps, and support. OpenVPN is a protocol that requires technical setup. If you want ease of use and streaming, ExpressVPN is the better choice.
Is OpenVPN really free?
The OpenVPN Community Edition is free. It supports 2 connections at no cost. However, you’ll need to provide your own server hardware or rent cloud hosting, which adds extra cost.
How much does ExpressVPN cost?
ExpressVPN plans start at $2.44/mo on a 2-year Basic plan. The Advanced plan costs $3.14/mo. The Pro plan is $5.24/mo. Monthly plans start at $12.95. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Can OpenVPN unblock Netflix?
OpenVPN alone cannot unblock Netflix. It doesn’t provide servers. If you use a VPN provider’s config files through OpenVPN, you might access streaming sites. But the protocol itself has no streaming support.
Is ExpressVPN safe and trustworthy?
Yes. ExpressVPN has passed 18 independent security audits. It’s based in the British Virgin Islands with strong privacy laws. TrustedServer technology ensures no data is stored on hard drives. Its no-logs policy has been verified multiple times.
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