ExpressVPN Review
Simple, dependable and well-audited, with its own Lightway protocol handling most of the speed and battery-life gains, though it costs more than most competitors for a similar feature set.
No-Logs Kill Switch
Simple, dependable and well-audited, with its own Lightway protocol handling most of the speed and battery-life gains, though it costs more than most competitors for a similar feature set.
ExpressVPN uses its proprietary Lightway protocol as the main option for fast and secure connections. The core Lightway library is open source, allowing independent researchers to inspect the code, and the protocol now includes post-quantum protection. OpenVPN and IKEv2 are also available on supported platforms.
The service includes a kill switch to prevent traffic from leaving the encrypted tunnel if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops. Split tunneling is also available on supported platforms, allowing you to choose which apps use ExpressVPN and which connect directly to the internet.
ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology runs VPN servers on RAM rather than traditional hard drives. Because RAM requires power to retain data, server data is wiped when the system is rebooted. ExpressVPN has also subjected its privacy practices and infrastructure to independent audits.
ExpressVPN is designed for bandwidth-heavy activities such as streaming and provides servers across 113 countries. The wide geographic coverage gives travelers plenty of locations to choose from when accessing their usual online services abroad.
The service offers apps for major desktop and mobile operating systems as well as smart TVs and other entertainment devices. Router support can also protect devices that do not have their own native VPN applications.
P2P traffic is supported, making ExpressVPN suitable for torrenting. Lightway is particularly relevant here because it is designed to establish connections quickly and maintain performance while switching between networks. ExpressVPN does not impose a separate bandwidth allowance on normal VPN usage.
ExpressVPN operates VPN servers across 113 countries, providing a broad geographic selection for both nearby and international connections. Actual VPN speeds depend on factors such as your original internet connection, server distance, network congestion and the device being used.
Lightway is specifically designed for speed and reliability. It can maintain the same VPN connection when a device moves between networks, such as switching from Wi-Fi to mobile data, rather than requiring a completely new connection.
ExpressVPN has also introduced Lightway Turbo, which uses multiple tunnels to transmit data simultaneously and increase available bandwidth. It is currently available on Windows, while support for additional platforms is planned.
ExpressVPN offers multiple subscription tiers, with the feature set and number of simultaneous connections depending on the selected plan. Longer subscriptions generally provide a lower effective monthly price than paying month to month.
Promotional rates can change, so users should check the current checkout price before subscribing rather than relying on an older advertised figure. It is also worth checking the renewal rate, as introductory pricing may not continue after the first subscription term.
New eligible customers who subscribe directly through ExpressVPN receive a 30-day money-back guarantee. Purchases through app stores can be subject to the refund policies of those stores instead.
Ease of use remains one of ExpressVPN’s strengths. Native apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS, as well as major smart TV platforms. Browser extensions and support for routers and gaming devices further expand compatibility.
The apps are designed around a straightforward connection process: users can quickly connect to a recommended server or select another location manually. More advanced settings, including protocol selection and other security options, remain accessible without making the main interface overly complicated.
ExpressVPN currently supports up to 14 simultaneous active connections, although the exact limit depends on the subscription plan. This makes one account suitable for protecting multiple computers, phones, tablets and other supported devices.
ExpressVPN provides 24/7 live chat support alongside an extensive online Support Center. Its documentation covers installation, troubleshooting, account management and platform-specific configuration.
The support library also includes instructions for changing protocols, configuring routers and resolving common connection problems. Having both self-service documentation and direct live assistance gives users an option for more complicated issues that cannot be solved through the app itself.
Yes. ExpressVPN combines the Lightway protocol, TrustedServer infrastructure, a kill switch, broad device support, and servers in 113 countries. Its focus on straightforward apps also makes it accessible to users who do not want complicated VPN configuration.
It depends on the subscription tier. ExpressVPN Basic supports 10 simultaneous connections, Advanced supports 12, and Express Pro supports 14. This is an important update from the previous eight-device limit.
ExpressVPN does not offer a permanent free VPN plan. However, a 3-day free trial is available through the iOS and Android apps. New users who subscribe directly through the ExpressVPN website can instead use its 30-day money-back guarantee.
ExpressVPN currently has servers in 113 countries and 214 server locations worldwide. Most locations use servers physically located in the selected country, while some are virtual server locations.
Yes. First-time customers who purchase an eligible subscription directly from ExpressVPN can request a full refund within 30 days. Subscriptions purchased through the Apple App Store or Google Play are subject to the respective store's refund policies instead.