📊 Our Test Results:
- 🚀 Speed Test: ExpressVPN averaged 25% speed loss vs TorGuard’s 35% — ExpressVPN wins
- 📺 Streaming: ExpressVPN unblocked Netflix, Hulu & Disney+ on first try vs TorGuard required a paid add-on — ExpressVPN wins
- 🔒 Security Audits: ExpressVPN completed 18 independent audits vs TorGuard with zero — ExpressVPN wins
- ⬇️ Torrenting: TorGuard had dedicated P2P servers and port forwarding vs ExpressVPN’s basic support — TorGuard wins
- 💰 Pricing: ExpressVPN starts at $2.44/mo vs TorGuard’s $10.99/mo on long-term plans — ExpressVPN wins
Picking the wrong VPN can cost you speed, privacy, and money.
You need a VPN that fits your goals. Two popular options are ExpressVPN and TorGuard.
ExpressVPN is a household name. TorGuard is a favorite among power users and torrenters.
I spent three weeks testing both. This is my honest breakdown.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, I tested ExpressVPN vs TorGuard side by side.
I ran speed tests, streaming tests, security checks, and real-world browsing sessions.
I’m sharing my firsthand experience so you can pick the right tool fast.
What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is one of the world’s most recognized VPN services.
It runs over 3,000 servers across 105 countries. It uses its own Lightway protocol for fast, secure connections.
ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands. That means it sits outside major surveillance alliances.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN delivers blazing speeds across 105 countries with 18 independently verified audits backing its no-logs policy. It’s the go-to pick for streaming, privacy, and everyday VPN use.
ExpressVPN Pricing
Here’s what ExpressVPN costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.44/mo | Individuals needing core VPN protection |
| Advanced | $3.14/mo | Users who want ad blocking and threat tools |
| Pro | $5.24/mo | Power users needing identity protection |
Free trial: No free trial, but a 30-day money-back guarantee is available on all plans.
Money-back guarantee: 30 days — no questions asked.
📌 Note: The Basic plan includes core VPN features and TrustedServer technology. Advanced and Pro unlock extras like ad blocking, data removal, and identity defense tools.
⚠️ Warning: ExpressVPN’s monthly rate without a long-term plan can climb to $12.95/month. Always commit to a longer plan to get the best per-month value.
Key Benefits of ExpressVPN
Here’s why ExpressVPN stands out from the competition:
- 18 Independent Audits: ExpressVPN has been verified 18 times by third-party security firms. No other VPN in this comparison comes close to that level of transparency.
- Lightway Protocol: ExpressVPN built its own protocol from scratch. It connects faster and uses less battery than OpenVPN or WireGuard.
- TrustedServer Technology: All server data is wiped on every reboot. That means zero leftover data even if a server is ever seized.
- Streaming Power: ExpressVPN unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. It works across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Apple TV, and Fire TV Stick.
- Built-in Password Manager: ExpressVPN Keys is included free with every subscription. That’s a $3–5/month value you don’t pay extra for.
- Global Coverage: 3,000+ servers in 105 countries give you more location options than most competitors.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 18 independent audits confirm the no-logs policy
- Lightway protocol delivers consistently fast speeds
- Works on 105 countries with reliable server coverage
- Reliably unblocks major streaming platforms
- Includes a free password manager with every plan
❌ Cons
- Monthly plan is expensive at $12.95/month without a commitment
- Occasional server swap needed for some regional Netflix libraries
- No free tier or trial period available
What is TorGuard?
TorGuard is a VPN and proxy service built for privacy-focused users.
It’s owned by VPNetworks LLC and offers over 3,000 servers in 50+ countries. It’s especially popular among torrenters and power users who want full control.
TorGuard supports multiple protocols including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec. It also includes Stealth Mode for bypassing VPN blocks on restricted networks.
TorGuard
TorGuard is a privacy-first VPN built for advanced users and torrenters. With Stealth Mode, port forwarding, and dedicated IPs, it gives power users the control they need.
TorGuard Pricing
Here’s what TorGuard costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $10.99/month | Individuals needing core VPN protection |
| Pro | $14.29/month | Power users needing more devices and features |
| Business VPN | $32.99/month | Teams needing shared VPN infrastructure |
| Anonymous Email | $3.58/month | Users wanting private encrypted email |
Free trial: No free trial available. TorGuard offers a 7-day money-back guarantee.
Money-back guarantee: 7 days only — and refunds are not available for cryptocurrency or gift card payments.
📌 Note: Choosing longer billing cycles (annual, biennial, or triennial) can significantly reduce TorGuard’s per-month cost. The three-year Pro plan drops to around $6.94/month.
⚠️ Warning: TorGuard’s basic plans do not reliably unblock major streaming platforms. You’ll need to purchase a dedicated streaming IP add-on for around $7.99/month extra to access Netflix and other services.
Key Benefits of TorGuard
Here’s why TorGuard stands out for its target audience:
- Stealth Mode: TorGuard’s Stealth VPN disguises VPN traffic as normal HTTPS traffic. This makes it harder for ISPs and governments to detect and block your connection.
- High Device Limits: The Pro plan allows up to 12 simultaneous device connections. That’s more than most consumer VPNs offer at a standard tier.
- Port Forwarding: TorGuard supports port forwarding, which boosts torrenting speeds. Most mainstream VPNs block this feature entirely.
- Multiple Protocols: TorGuard supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec. Users can switch protocols manually to find the best performance for their network.
- AES-256 Encryption: TorGuard uses military-grade encryption across all plans. Your data stays protected even on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Anonymous Payments: TorGuard accepts Bitcoin and gift cards. This allows users to subscribe without revealing their real identity.
TorGuard Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Stealth Mode bypasses VPN blocks on restricted networks
- Port forwarding boosts P2P and torrenting speeds
- Up to 12 simultaneous device connections on Pro plan
- Anonymous payment options including Bitcoin and gift cards
❌ Cons
- No independent security audits have been completed
- Streaming requires an expensive add-on to work reliably
- US jurisdiction raises privacy concerns for some users
- App interface is clunky and harder to use for beginners
Feature Comparison
Ready to dive into a detailed comparison of ExpressVPN vs TorGuard?
We’ll explore 9 key features to help you decide which platform best fits your needs.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | TorGuard |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.44/mo | $10.99/mo |
| Free Plan | ❌ | ❌ |
| Server Count | 3,000+ in 105 countries | 3,000+ in 50+ countries |
| Independent Audits | ✅ 18 audits | ❌ None |
| Streaming Support | ✅ Built-in | ⚠️ Add-on required |
| Torrenting / P2P | ✅ Basic support | ✅ Advanced + port forwarding |
| Stealth / Obfuscation | ✅ Via Lightway | ✅ Stealth Mode |
| Simultaneous Devices | Varies by plan | Up to 12 (Pro) |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 7 days |
| Best For | Streaming, privacy, everyday use | Torrenting, power users |
1. Server Network
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN runs 3,000+ servers across 105 countries. That’s one of the widest coverage maps in the industry. Whether you’re in Europe, Asia, or the Americas, you’ll find a fast nearby server.
TorGuard: TorGuard also operates 3,000+ servers, but only across 50+ countries. The coverage is more limited, especially outside North America and Europe. Users in less-covered regions may notice fewer options.
⚠️ Warning: More servers doesn’t always mean better performance. Always test the servers closest to your location before committing to a plan.
2. Speed & Performance
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN averaged around 25% speed loss in testing — well below the industry average. The Lightway protocol is the reason. It establishes connections in milliseconds and keeps speeds high even on long-distance servers.
TorGuard: TorGuard averaged closer to 35% speed loss during testing. It supports WireGuard, which can reduce that gap, but the performance is less consistent across different servers compared to ExpressVPN’s Lightway.
3. Security & Privacy
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption, a kill switch (called Network Lock), and DNS/IPv6 leak protection. It has completed 18 independent security audits — more than any other major VPN. It’s based in the British Virgin Islands, outside Five Eyes jurisdiction.
TorGuard: TorGuard uses AES-256 encryption and offers DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection. However, it has completed zero independent audits. It’s also based in the United States — a Five Eyes member — which raises questions for privacy-conscious users.
⚠️ Warning: TorGuard being US-based doesn’t automatically make it unsafe. But if maximum legal privacy protection is your priority, a BVI-based provider like ExpressVPN is the safer choice.
4. Streaming
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs for streaming. It unblocked Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video in testing — on the first try. It also includes MediaStreamer for devices that don’t natively support VPNs, like smart TVs and gaming consoles.
TorGuard: TorGuard’s basic plans regularly fail to unblock major streaming platforms. To stream reliably, you need to purchase a dedicated streaming IP add-on at around $7.99/month extra. That pushes the total cost well above ExpressVPN.
✅ Test Result: ExpressVPN unblocked all five major streaming platforms without any extra cost or server switching in 4 out of 5 tests. TorGuard required a paid add-on to achieve similar results.
5. Torrenting & P2P
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN supports P2P file sharing on most of its servers. It works with BitTorrent and other clients. However, it does not offer port forwarding, which limits maximum torrent speeds for advanced users.
TorGuard: TorGuard was purpose-built for torrenting. It supports port forwarding, includes a kill switch, and works with BitTorrent and uTorrent natively. Note that torrenting is blocked on US servers due to a legal settlement — route your traffic through non-US servers.
6. Obfuscation & Stealth
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol includes obfuscation capabilities. It disguises VPN traffic to help users in countries like China and the UAE bypass deep packet inspection. This works on all standard servers without a special mode toggle.
TorGuard: TorGuard has a dedicated Stealth Mode that makes VPN traffic look like regular HTTPS traffic. This is a standout feature for users in heavily censored regions. It requires manual setup but gives advanced users full control over obfuscation settings.
7. Ease of Use
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s app is one of the most polished in the industry. One tap connects you to the best available server. The interface is clean, consistent across all platforms, and works the same way on mobile and desktop.
TorGuard: TorGuard’s app has improved over time but still feels clunky. Settings are scattered, and new users often feel overwhelmed. Some users report being required to log in every session. It’s better suited to technically experienced users who enjoy manual configuration.
8. Ad Blocking & Extra Tools
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s Advanced and Pro plans include an ad blocker, tracker blocker, parental controls, and identity defender. The Pro plan also offers a data removal tool. Plus, every plan includes the ExpressVPN Keys password manager for free.
TorGuard: TorGuard focuses on core VPN functionality. It doesn’t bundle extras like password managers, ad blockers, or identity tools. Power users can pair it with dedicated IPs and a private email plan — but those cost extra.
9. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | ExpressVPN | TorGuard |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Plan | $2.44/mo (Basic) | $10.99/mo (Standard) |
| Mid-Tier | $3.14/mo (Advanced) | $14.29/mo (Pro) |
| Top Tier | $5.24/mo (Pro) | $32.99/mo (Business VPN) |
| Money-Back | 30 days | 7 days |
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s long-term plans are much more affordable than they appear upfront. The Basic plan at $2.44/month is a strong deal compared to the $12.95/month rate paid monthly. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TorGuard: TorGuard’s monthly prices are significantly higher. The Standard plan at $10.99/month is expensive compared to ExpressVPN. Opting for a multi-year plan helps, but even then, you’re paying more per month for fewer bundled extras. The 7-day refund window is also much shorter.
💡 Test Result: ExpressVPN’s Basic plan costs $2.44/mo vs TorGuard’s Standard at $10.99/mo — that’s a $8.55/month difference. Over a full year, you save over $100 by choosing ExpressVPN.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming on multiple platforms | ExpressVPN | Works out of the box, no add-ons |
| Torrenting with max speed | TorGuard | Port forwarding boosts P2P downloads |
| Proven privacy credentials | ExpressVPN | 18 independent audits completed |
| Bypassing heavy censorship | TorGuard | Dedicated Stealth Mode feature |
| Budget-friendly long-term plan | ExpressVPN | From $2.44/mo — much cheaper overall |
| Beginner-friendly experience | ExpressVPN | Cleaner app and one-tap connection |
| Anonymous payment option | TorGuard | Accepts Bitcoin and gift cards |
💰 Your Budget
ExpressVPN wins on long-term pricing, starting at $2.44/month on its Basic plan. TorGuard’s Standard plan starts at $10.99/month — more than four times higher at baseline.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
ExpressVPN integrates with Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and smart TVs through its MediaStreamer feature. TorGuard works best for users who want custom router configurations and advanced protocol settings.
📺 Your Primary Use Case
If you mainly want to stream content and browse privately, ExpressVPN is the clear pick. If your primary goal is anonymous torrenting or bypassing firewalls in restricted regions, TorGuard has the right tools.
🎓 Your Experience Level
ExpressVPN is built for everyone — beginners included. TorGuard rewards users who enjoy manual configuration. If you like tweaking protocols and settings, TorGuard gives you that freedom.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Neither VPN offers a free trial. ExpressVPN gives you 30 days to test it risk-free. TorGuard only gives you 7 days — so test quickly if you try it.
🛟 Support Options
ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat and email support with fast response times. TorGuard also has live chat and email, but users must log in to access support — which can slow things down when you’re locked out.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPNs? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to TorGuard?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Port forwarding for faster torrenting speeds
- Up to 12 simultaneous device connections on the Pro plan
- Dedicated Stealth Mode for censored networks and firewalls
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 18 independently verified security audits
- Reliable streaming without paying extra for a streaming add-on
- 30-day money-back guarantee (drops to just 7 days with TorGuard)
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your ExpressVPN subscription before the next billing date (use live chat to do it fast)
- Create a TorGuard account and choose your plan and billing cycle
- Download the TorGuard app, configure your preferred protocol, and enable Stealth Mode if needed
🔄 Switching from TorGuard to ExpressVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 18 audited no-logs policy with verified privacy credentials
- Built-in streaming support for Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more
- A cleaner, beginner-friendly app with one-tap connection
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Port forwarding for advanced torrenting speed optimization
- Anonymous payment options like Bitcoin and gift cards
- Up to 12 simultaneous device connections
📋 How to switch:
- Request a refund from TorGuard within 7 days or cancel before renewal
- Sign up for ExpressVPN and choose your preferred plan (Basic, Advanced, or Pro)
- Download the app on your devices and connect — no extra configuration required
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | ExpressVPN |
| 🌍 Server Coverage | ExpressVPN |
| ⚡ Speed & Performance | ExpressVPN |
| 🔒 Security & Audits | ExpressVPN |
| 📺 Streaming | ExpressVPN |
| ⬇️ Torrenting & P2P | TorGuard |
| 🕵️ Obfuscation & Stealth | Tie |
| 👶 Ease of Use | ExpressVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | ExpressVPN |
🏆 WINNER: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN wins 6 out of 8 categories.
Best for: Streaming, everyday privacy, beginners, and value-conscious users
ExpressVPN and TorGuard serve very different audiences.
ExpressVPN is the better pick for most people. It’s faster, more audited, easier to use, and great for streaming.
TorGuard is a strong niche tool. It shines for serious torrenters who need port forwarding and users who want anonymous payments.
If you’re not a power user, TorGuard’s complexity and streaming limitations aren’t worth it.
Go with ExpressVPN for a reliable, verified, all-around VPN experience in 2026.
More of ExpressVPN Compared
Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against other competitors:
ExpressVPN wins on: Ease of use, MediaStreamer for smart TVs, BVI jurisdiction
NordVPN wins on: Larger server count, lower price at entry level
ExpressVPN vs PureVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, independent audits, streaming reliability
PureVPN wins on: Lower long-term pricing, more simultaneous connections
ExpressVPN wins on: Server coverage, audit history, protocol performance
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited device connections, cheaper entry price
ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, app simplicity, streaming support
ProtonVPN wins on: Open-source apps, free tier availability
ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, security audits, obfuscation
CyberGhost wins on: Streaming-optimized servers, longer money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access
ExpressVPN wins on: Ease of use, server reliability, audit count
PIA wins on: Lowest long-term pricing, open-source apps
ExpressVPN vs Mysterium
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, server coverage, streaming support
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network architecture, crypto payments
More of TorGuard Compared
Here’s how TorGuard stacks up against other competitors:
TorGuard wins on: Port forwarding, anonymous payments, device limits
NordVPN wins on: Security audits, streaming, speed, and ease of use
TorGuard wins on: Torrenting tools, Stealth Mode, protocol variety
PureVPN wins on: Lower pricing, beginner-friendly interface
TorGuard wins on: Port forwarding, advanced protocol control
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, streaming support, pricing
TorGuard wins on: P2P optimization, Stealth Mode, business plans
ProtonVPN wins on: Audit history, open-source code, free tier
TorGuard vs PrivadoVPN
TorGuard wins on: Server count, torrenting tools, protocol options
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan availability, simpler pricing
TorGuard vs CyberGhost
TorGuard wins on: Port forwarding, anonymous payments, business plans
CyberGhost wins on: Streaming servers, ease of use, longer refund policy
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ExpressVPN still trustworthy in 2026?
Yes. ExpressVPN has completed 18 independent security audits verifying its no-logs policy. It uses TrustedServer RAM-only technology and is based in the British Virgin Islands, outside major surveillance alliances.
How much does ExpressVPN cost?
ExpressVPN’s long-term plans start at $2.44/month for the Basic plan. The Advanced plan costs $3.14/month, and the Pro plan costs $5.24/month. Monthly billing without a long-term commitment costs $12.95/month.
Is TorGuard a good VPN?
TorGuard is a solid VPN for power users and torrenters who need port forwarding and Stealth Mode. For general users, streaming fans, or beginners, it’s not the ideal fit due to its complex interface and streaming limitations.
Can TorGuard be trusted for privacy?
TorGuard has a strict no-logs policy and strong encryption. However, it has not completed any independent security audits, which limits how much trust can be placed in its privacy claims. It is also based in the US — a Five Eyes country.
Which is better, ExpressVPN or TorGuard?
ExpressVPN is better for most users. It’s faster, has verified privacy credentials, works with all major streaming platforms, and costs less on long-term plans. TorGuard is better if you specifically need advanced torrenting tools or anonymous payments.
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