ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN
Head-to-head comparison of two popular vpn tools. See which one is right for your needs.
Last updated: March 2026
Quick Verdict
ExpressVPN has a higher rating (4.5/5) compared to ProtonVPN (4.5/5). However, ProtonVPN offers a free tier which ExpressVPN does not.
ProtonVPN
4.5ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused VPN from the makers of ProtonMail, based in Switzerland. It offers a genuine free tier with no data limits, open-source apps, and Secure Core servers that route through privacy-friendly countries. ProtonVPN is ideal for privacy-conscious users.
Pricing
Free / $4.49/month
Key Features
- Free Tier
- Secure Core
- NetShield Ad Blocker
- P2P Support
- Tor over VPN
- Kill Switch
- Open Source Apps
- No Logs
Pros
- + True free tier
- + Swiss privacy laws
- + Open source
- + Strong security focus
Cons
- − Slower free servers
- − Smaller server network
- − Fewer streaming features
ExpressVPN
4.5ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service known for its fast speeds, reliability, and ease of use. It offers servers in 105 countries, proprietary Lightway protocol, and audited no-logs policy. ExpressVPN excels at streaming, working with Netflix, Disney+, and other services.
Pricing
$6.67/month
Key Features
- 3,000+ Servers
- 105 Countries
- Lightway Protocol
- TrustedServer Technology
- Kill Switch
- Split Tunneling
- Router App
- 24/7 Support
Pros
- + Consistently fast
- + Works with all streaming
- + Easy apps
- + Strong privacy
Cons
- − Most expensive option
- − No free tier
- − Only 8 connections