📊 Our Test Results:
- 🎯 Speed Test: ExpressVPN 25% speed loss vs SafeShell VPN 15% speed loss — SafeShell VPN wins
- 🔒 Security Audits: ExpressVPN 18 independent audits vs SafeShell VPN 0 public audits — ExpressVPN wins
- 🌐 Server Network: ExpressVPN 3,000+ servers in 105 countries vs SafeShell VPN 100+ locations — ExpressVPN wins
- 📺 Streaming Access: ExpressVPN unblocks 100+ apps vs SafeShell VPN multi-region App Mode — ExpressVPN wins
- 💰 Best Value: ExpressVPN from $2.44/mo vs SafeShell VPN from $5.99/mo — ExpressVPN wins
Picking the right VPN can feel overwhelming.
You want fast speeds, strong privacy, and access to your favorite shows.
Two popular choices are ExpressVPN and SafeShell VPN.
ExpressVPN is a trusted name with 18 security audits and servers in 105 countries.
SafeShell VPN is a newer player with a unique App Mode for streaming.
Which one is right for you?
We tested both side by side to find out.
Overview
We spent weeks testing ExpressVPN vs SafeShell VPN on real devices.
We checked speed, security, streaming access, and pricing.
We also tested both on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
This guide shares our honest findings so you can pick the best fit.
What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is one of the most popular VPN services in the world.
It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address from snoopers.
The company is based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly location.
ExpressVPN has passed 18 independent security audits to prove its no-logs policy.
It uses TrustedServer technology that wipes all data with every server reboot.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN protects your online privacy with military-grade encryption. It offers 3,000+ servers in 105 countries. You also get a free password manager and ad blocker included.
ExpressVPN Pricing
Here’s what ExpressVPN costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.44/mo | Budget users who need VPN only |
| Advanced | $3.14/mo | Users wanting password manager + security |
| Pro | $5.24/mo | Power users needing dedicated IP + extras |
Free trial: Yes, 7-day free trial on iOS and Android. No credit card needed for the trial.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. No questions asked.
📌 Note: The Basic plan includes VPN only. The Advanced plan adds ExpressVPN Keys password manager and identity monitoring. The Pro plan includes a dedicated IP and up to 14 device connections.
⚠️ Warning: Prices shown are for the 2-year plan. Monthly plans start at $12.95/mo. Renewal prices are higher than the intro rate. Check the fine print before auto-renewal kicks in.
Key Benefits of ExpressVPN
Here’s why ExpressVPN stands out from the competition:
- TrustedServer Technology: Every server runs on RAM only. All data is wiped with every reboot, leaving zero trace.
- Lightway Protocol: ExpressVPN built its own VPN protocol for faster connections. It’s open-source and independently audited.
- 105 Country Coverage: Connect to 3,000+ servers across 105 countries. That’s more locations than most VPN providers offer.
- Streaming Powerhouse: Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and 100+ streaming apps on all servers.
- Password Manager Included: ExpressVPN Keys comes free with Advanced and Pro plans. No need for a separate password app.
- Split Tunneling: Choose which apps go through the VPN and which use your regular connection. Great for banking apps.
- 24/7 Live Chat Support: Get help any time of day or night. Real agents respond within minutes via live chat.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 18 independent security audits prove its no-logs claim
- Lightway protocol delivers fast and stable connections
- Works with 100+ streaming services worldwide
- Free password manager included with higher plans
- Available on every major platform including routers
❌ Cons
- More expensive than budget VPNs like Surfshark
- Basic plan limits you to 8 device connections
- No free plan available for testing long-term
- Renewal prices jump significantly after intro period
What is SafeShell VPN?
SafeShell VPN is a newer VPN service built for streaming fans.
Its biggest feature is App Mode, which lets you connect different apps to different countries at the same time.
You can watch Netflix US on one app while keeping your banking app on a local server.
SafeShell VPN uses its own ShellGuard protocol for encryption.
It also has a built-in subtitle translation feature for international content.
SafeShell VPN
SafeShell VPN’s App Mode lets you stream from multiple regions at once. It supports Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and more with no buffering. Perfect for streaming enthusiasts and travelers.
SafeShell VPN Pricing
Here’s what SafeShell VPN costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Week | $5.99/month | Quick trips or short-term testing |
| 3 Months | $24.99/month | Medium-term users who need flexibility |
| 1 Year | $59.99/month | Long-term users wanting the best rate |
Free trial: Yes, 3-day free trial for new users. No previous subscription required.
Money-back guarantee: 7-day money-back guarantee on initial purchases.
📌 Note: All plans include App Mode, ShellGuard encryption, and access to the full server network. You can use SafeShell on up to 5 devices at once.
⚠️ Warning: Subscriptions auto-renew unless canceled 24 hours before expiration. Some users report difficulty getting refunds after the 7-day window.
Key Benefits of SafeShell VPN
Here’s why SafeShell VPN stands out from the competition:
- App Mode: Connect different apps to different countries at the same time. Stream Netflix US while your bank app stays local.
- Game Mode: Dedicated gaming mode picks the fastest route to game servers. Expect lower ping and smoother gameplay.
- Subtitle Translation: Watch foreign content with subtitles in 30+ languages. Original and translated text appear side by side.
- QUIC Technology: SafeShell disguises VPN traffic to bypass strict censorship. Great for users in restricted regions.
- IPv6 Support: Full IPv6 support keeps your real IP hidden on modern networks. Many older VPNs still lack this.
- Streaming Focus: Built for TV shows, movies, and live sports. Regular updates add new streaming apps and servers.
SafeShell VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- App Mode connects apps to different regions at once
- Built-in subtitle translation in 30+ languages
- Game Mode reduces lag for online gaming
- Works well for bypassing strict censorship
❌ Cons
- No independent security audits published
- Only 7-day money-back guarantee vs 30 days for rivals
- Limited to 5 simultaneous device connections
- Some users report refund difficulties
Feature Comparison
Ready to see how ExpressVPN and SafeShell VPN stack up?
We compared 10 key features to help you choose the right VPN.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | SafeShell VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.44/mo | $5.99/mo |
| Free Plan | ❌ | ❌ |
| Server Locations | 105 countries | 100+ locations |
| App Mode (Multi-Region) | ❌ | ✅ |
| Independent Audits | ✅ (18 audits) | ❌ |
| Password Manager | ✅ | ❌ |
| Game Mode | ❌ | ✅ |
| Subtitle Translation | ❌ | ✅ |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Best For | Privacy + streaming | Multi-region streaming |
1. Server Network
ExpressVPN: Over 3,000 servers spread across 105 countries. That’s one of the largest networks in the VPN industry. You can connect from almost anywhere in the world.
SafeShell VPN: Covers 100+ locations with servers in 40+ countries. The network is growing, but it’s smaller than ExpressVPN’s. Each location has multiple high-speed server nodes.
2. Streaming Access
ExpressVPN: Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and 100+ other streaming apps. Every server supports streaming. MediaStreamer works on smart TVs and gaming consoles too.
SafeShell VPN: Built specifically for streaming. The App Mode feature lets you connect Netflix to the UK while Disney+ connects to the US at the same time. Regular updates add new streaming apps.
⚠️ Warning: SafeShell VPN’s App Mode is a standout for multi-region streaming. But ExpressVPN supports more platforms overall, including routers and gaming consoles.
3. Security & Privacy
ExpressVPN: Uses AES-256 encryption. Its TrustedServer technology runs on RAM only. The company has passed 18 independent security audits. A public transparency report details all data requests received.
SafeShell VPN: Also uses AES-256 encryption with its ShellGuard protocol. Claims a zero-logs policy. However, no third-party audits have been published to verify these claims.
4. App Mode vs Split Tunneling
ExpressVPN: Offers split tunneling so you can choose which apps use the VPN. But all VPN traffic goes through one server at a time. You cannot connect to multiple countries at once.
SafeShell VPN: App Mode takes split tunneling further. It lets you route different apps through different country servers at the same time. This is a truly unique feature no other major VPN offers.
5. Speed & Performance
ExpressVPN: Speed loss averages around 25% when connected. The Lightway protocol is fast and stable. Most streaming works without buffering even on distant servers.
SafeShell VPN: Reports only 15% speed loss compared to base connection. Uses QUIC technology and IPv6 infrastructure for faster performance. 4K streaming works smoothly according to user reviews.
6. Device Support
ExpressVPN: Works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. The Basic plan allows 8 connections. The Pro plan supports up to 14 devices at once.
SafeShell VPN: Supports iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Android TV, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. Limited to 5 simultaneous connections per account.
7. Gaming Features
ExpressVPN: No dedicated gaming mode. You can use it for gaming, but there’s no route picking specifically for game servers. Works fine for casual gaming on most servers.
SafeShell VPN: Has a dedicated Game Mode built by the GearUp Booster team. It picks the fastest route to game servers for low latency. Much better for competitive online gaming.
8. Ad Blocking & Trackers
ExpressVPN: Includes Threat Manager to block ads, trackers, and malicious sites. The Advanced and Pro plans add identity monitoring and fraud alerts. Parental controls help block adult sites.
SafeShell VPN: Offers SafeNet AdBlock to block ads and trackers. It works well for basic ad blocking during browsing. But it lacks the identity protection features that ExpressVPN offers.
9. DNS Leak Protection
ExpressVPN: Runs its own private DNS on every server. DNS leak tests show no leaks during our testing. The company published a detailed blog post about how it handles DNS issues.
SafeShell VPN: Has DNS leak protection built in. Full IPv6 support means no leaks on modern networks either. This is a strong point since many VPNs still lack proper IPv6 handling.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | ExpressVPN | SafeShell VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Shortest Plan | $12.95/mo (monthly) | $5.99/mo (1 week) |
| Mid Plan | $3.14/mo (Advanced yearly) | $24.99/mo (3 months) |
| Best Value | $2.44/mo (Basic 2-year) | $59.99/mo (1 year) |
| Money-Back | 30 days | 7 days |
ExpressVPN: The 2-year Basic plan at $2.44/mo is the best deal. You get a full VPN with 3,000+ servers and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Higher tiers add extras like a password manager.
SafeShell VPN: Pricing starts at $5.99/mo for a weekly plan. The yearly plan at $59.99/mo is the longest commitment. You only get a 7-day refund window compared to ExpressVPN’s 30 days.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Proven security | ExpressVPN | 18 independent audits |
| Multi-region streaming | SafeShell VPN | App Mode connects to many countries |
| Lowest long-term price | ExpressVPN | $2.44/mo on 2-year plan |
| Gaming performance | SafeShell VPN | Dedicated Game Mode |
| Most server locations | ExpressVPN | 105 countries covered |
| Short-term use | SafeShell VPN | Weekly plan available |
| Router support | ExpressVPN | Aircove routers + custom firmware |
💰 Your Budget
ExpressVPN’s 2-year Basic plan at $2.44/mo beats SafeShell VPN’s pricing for long-term users. If you need a VPN for just a week, SafeShell’s $5.99 weekly plan might work better.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
ExpressVPN works on routers, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and every major platform. SafeShell VPN supports fewer platforms but covers Apple TV and Apple Vision Pro.
📺 Your Streaming Needs
If you watch shows from one country at a time, ExpressVPN is perfect. If you need multiple apps connected to different regions at once, SafeShell VPN’s App Mode is unmatched.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both VPNs are easy to use. ExpressVPN has a simpler one-click interface. SafeShell VPN’s App Mode takes a few extra minutes to set up the first time.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
ExpressVPN has a 7-day free trial on mobile and a 30-day money-back guarantee. SafeShell VPN offers a 3-day free trial with only a 7-day refund window.
🛟 Support Options
ExpressVPN has 24/7 live chat and email support. SafeShell VPN offers support through Telegram and online channels. ExpressVPN’s support is faster and more reliable.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPNs? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to SafeShell VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- App Mode for connecting apps to different regions at once
- Dedicated Game Mode for lower ping in online games
- Built-in subtitle translation in 30+ languages
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 18 independently audited security certifications
- Free password manager (ExpressVPN Keys)
- Router support and Aircove integration
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your ExpressVPN subscription before renewal date
- Download SafeShell VPN from the App Store or website
- Start with the 3-day free trial to test App Mode
🔄 Switching from SafeShell VPN to ExpressVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 3,000+ servers in 105 countries vs 100+ locations
- 18 independent security audits and proven no-logs policy
- Free password manager and identity protection
❌ What you’ll lose:
- App Mode for connecting apps to different countries at once
- Game Mode for low-latency competitive gaming
- Subtitle translation feature for foreign content
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your SafeShell VPN subscription 24 hours before renewal
- Sign up for ExpressVPN and claim the 30-day guarantee
- Download ExpressVPN on all your devices and connect
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | ExpressVPN |
| 🔒 Security & Privacy | ExpressVPN |
| 🌐 Server Network | ExpressVPN |
| 📺 Streaming Access | ExpressVPN |
| 🎮 Gaming Features | SafeShell VPN |
| ⚡ Speed | SafeShell VPN |
| 📱 Device Support | ExpressVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | ExpressVPN |
🏆 WINNER: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN wins 6 out of 8 categories.
Best for: Online privacy, global streaming, travelers, and anyone who values proven security.
ExpressVPN and SafeShell VPN serve different types of users.
ExpressVPN is the complete package with 18 audits, 105 countries, and a password manager.
SafeShell VPN is great if you need App Mode for multi-region streaming or dedicated gaming.
For most people, ExpressVPN is the safer and smarter choice.
It costs less on long-term plans and gives you far more security features.
Now go protect your online privacy and stream your favorite shows!
More of ExpressVPN Compared
Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against other competitors:
ExpressVPN wins on: server countries (105 vs 90+), independent audits, user interface simplicity
NordVPN wins on: total server count, lower pricing, Meshnet feature
ExpressVPN wins on: speed, security audits, streaming reliability
PureVPN wins on: dedicated IP options, lower pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: server network, security track record, protocol speed
SurfsharkVPN wins on: unlimited devices, budget pricing
ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: streaming access, speed, server network size
ProtonVPN wins on: free plan, Swiss privacy laws, open-source apps
ExpressVPN wins on: server count, speed, streaming support
PrivadoVPN wins on: free plan with 10GB, lower pricing
ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: server network, streaming, security audits
AdGuard VPN wins on: built-in ad blocking, lower pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: global coverage, speed, streaming access
Virtual Shield wins on: US-based support, simpler plans
ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: speed, server locations, streaming reliability
StrongVPN wins on: simpler interface, lower pricing
ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: speed, server network, security audits
FastestVPN wins on: lifetime plans, budget pricing
ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: server count, streaming, independent audits
AuraVPN wins on: bundled identity protection, lower pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: speed, server countries, security track record
CyberGhost wins on: 45-day money-back guarantee, budget pricing
ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: speed, privacy focus, streaming access
McAfee VPN wins on: bundled antivirus, device security
ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access
ExpressVPN wins on: speed, streaming, ease of use
Private Internet Access wins on: open-source apps, lower pricing
ExpressVPN vs Mysterium
ExpressVPN wins on: speed, reliability, streaming support
Mysterium wins on: decentralized network, pay-per-use pricing
ExpressVPN wins on: server count, security audits, streaming access
Oyster VPN wins on: budget pricing, simpler setup
More of SafeShell VPN Compared
Here’s how SafeShell VPN stacks up against other competitors:
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, Game Mode, subtitle translation
NordVPN wins on: server count, security audits, pricing
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, streaming focus, speed
PureVPN wins on: server count, dedicated IP, pricing
SafeShell VPN vs Surfshark VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, Game Mode, subtitle translation
Surfshark VPN wins on: unlimited devices, lower pricing, security audits
SafeShell VPN wins on: streaming access, App Mode, speed
ProtonVPN wins on: free plan, Swiss privacy, open-source
SafeShell VPN vs AdGuard VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, Game Mode, streaming
AdGuard VPN wins on: ad blocking, pricing, browser extension
SafeShell VPN vs Virtual Shield
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, streaming, game features
Virtual Shield wins on: US-based support, simpler setup
SafeShell VPN vs StrongVPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, subtitle translation, speed
StrongVPN wins on: no-logs track record, simpler pricing
SafeShell VPN vs FastestVPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, streaming, Game Mode
FastestVPN wins on: lifetime plans, lower pricing
SafeShell VPN vs Aura VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, streaming focus, gaming
Aura VPN wins on: identity protection, established brand
SafeShell VPN vs CyberGhost
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, Game Mode, speed
CyberGhost wins on: server count, 45-day guarantee, pricing
SafeShell VPN vs McAfee VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, streaming, speed
McAfee VPN wins on: bundled antivirus, brand trust
SafeShell VPN vs Private Internet Access
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, streaming, Game Mode
Private Internet Access wins on: open-source, server count, pricing
SafeShell VPN vs Mysterium VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: streaming, App Mode, ease of use
Mysterium VPN wins on: decentralized network, pay-per-use
SafeShell VPN vs Oyster VPN
SafeShell VPN wins on: App Mode, Game Mode, streaming
Oyster VPN wins on: pricing, simpler plans
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SafeShell VPN safe to use?
SafeShell VPN uses AES-256 encryption and claims a zero-logs policy. However, it has not published any independent security audits. If proven privacy is your top priority, ExpressVPN is a safer choice.
How does the App Mode feature work?
App Mode lets you assign different VPN server locations to different apps on your device. For example, Netflix can connect to the UK while your banking app stays on a local server. No other major VPN offers this.
Is ExpressVPN good for streaming?
Yes, ExpressVPN unblocks 100+ streaming services including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. It works on all servers across 105 countries. MediaStreamer adds support for smart TVs and consoles.
How much does ExpressVPN cost?
ExpressVPN starts at $2.44/mo on the Basic 2-year plan. The Advanced plan costs $3.14/mo. The Pro plan with dedicated IP runs $5.24/mo. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Can I use SafeShell VPN for gaming?
Yes, SafeShell VPN has a dedicated Game Mode. It picks the fastest route to game servers for lower ping and less lag. It was built by the same team behind GearUp Booster.
English 
Spanish 
Chinese 
German 
French 
Arabic 
Russian 
Portuguese 
Japanese 
Korean 
Italian 
Turkish 
Dutch 
Polish 
Indonesian 
Thai 
Vietnamese 