ExpressVPN VS Proton VPN

When it comes to online privacy and security, choosing the right virtual private network (VPN) service can make a significant difference. ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN are two of the most popular VPN software on the market, and each offers a range of features that make them appealing to different types of users.

However, Express VPN is fast and reliable, whereas Proton VPN is a Secure and Affordable Choice. But when it comes to choosing between Express VPN and Proton VPN, let's explore other differences between ProtonVPN and ExpressVPN in detail.

Express VPN vs Proton VPN: An Overview

ExpressVPN is superior when it comes to network coverage and speed. However, ProtonVPN comes with an ad blocking feature, NetShield which is missing from its competitor. In fact, it also supports more simultaneous connections and user profile customization.

Let's dive deep into the comparison of these two top VPN providers, ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN. Let’s understand how they perform in terms of features, speed, servers, security, and other related factors.

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Pros & Cons

• ProtonVPN offers more features as compared to ExpressVPN that includes better port forwards, user profile customization, advanced VPN protocols, and more.
• ExpressVPN offers better network coverage with its servers spread across 90+ countries, whereas ProtonVPN is only spread across 65 countries
• ProtonVPN only supports streaming on about 30 apps, however, ExpressVPN enables streaming on more than 60 apps
• Torrenting with both VPN providers is completely secure, however, with ProtonVPN you might have to compromise on speed
• ExpressVPN allows lag-free VPN gaming experience along with cloud gaming support, which is missing in ProtonVPN
• ProtonVPN offers a free forever plan which ExpressVPN doesn’t offer

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Features Comparison

The basic functionality of both Express VPN and Proton VPN is to allow you to browse and access websites anonymously anywhere in the world. However, these two VPN competitors share a few similar features that include:

• Kill Switch
• Split Tunneling
• Torrenting
• Netflix
• No Traffic Logging
• AES 256 Bit Encryption

Apart from this, there are a few distinct features on which the difference between ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN is visible. Let’s discuss these distinct features further in detail.

• Simultaneous Connections: ExpressVPN allows users to connect 5 devices and browse simultaneously at a time whereas using ProtonVPN, users can connect up to 10 devices and indulge in secure and private browsing. Many ExpressVPN alternatives might not be offering 10 devices for private browsing.
• VPN Protocols: ProtonVPN uses secure VPN Protocols that include IKEv2, OpenVPN, and their latest addition WireGuard which has helped immensely in increasing VPN speeds. Although ExpressVPN works on a modern VPN Protocol, Lightway uses less device battery and is comparatively easier to maintain. But, even then, Lightway VPN Protocol does not match the speed of ProtonVPN’s WireGuard Protocol.
• Password Manager: Express also comes with the capabilities of the password manager. This module securely stores multiple logins and even enables strong password generation and auto fill. However, this module is missing ProtonVPN.
• Better Port Forwarding: Port forwarding allows users to get faster downloads by connecting to more peers. ProtonVPN supports this feature in its Windows app, whereas ExpressVPN only supports port forwarding in its router app.
• User Profiles: This is another great ProtonVPN feature that is missing in its competitor, ExpressVPN. This feature allows users to name and color code their profiles, making it easier to track. However, ExpressVPN lacks this feature.

Final Verdict: ProtonVPN wins here because of its ability to connect more devices, advanced protocols, user profile customization, better port forwarding, and other distinct features.

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Servers

When it comes to servers, ExpressVPN simply is a better choice as its server presence is higher than ProtonVPN.

ExpressVPN is available in more than 90 countries, whereas ProtonVPN has 1800+ servers working in about 65+ countries. ExpressVPN servers follow a TrustedServer technology which ensures that your data is completely secure and never written on any hard drive. In addition to this, ExpressVPN also runs a private DNS on all its servers, ensuring that your connections are fast and secure.

On the other hand, one functionality that might attract users to ProtonVPN servers is its ability to support Tor. This allows users to access the dark web through the Tor anonymity network.

Final Verdict: ExpressVPN clearly wins the race when it comes to drawing a server comparison between Express VPN vs Proton VPN.

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Speed Comparison

It is difficult to determine which VPN offers the best speed as it depends on varied factors, such as, the distance of the physical server. Simply because ExpressVPN has more server availability, it beats ProtonVPN in terms of downloading and uploading speed.

However, ProtonVPN’s latest WireGuard protocol addition has given it a good speed boost. You can also find high downloading and uploading speed in ProtonVPN alternatives.  Apart from this, ProtonVPN also comes with a VPN Accelerator feature that increases VPN speed by overcoming CPU limitations, reducing latency and redesigning protocols. All this can increase the VPN speed by approximately 400%. 

Final Verdict: ProtonVPN does offer a good speed, but it still cannot be matched with ExpressVPN’s server availability spread across 90+ countries.

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Streaming & Torrenting Comparison

Both ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN are good choices for streaming, however, ExpressVPN still gains an extra point as it supports more than 60 streaming apps whereas ProtonVPN only works with some 30+ apps. These streaming apps include Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar, BBC iPlayer, etc.

Other than streaming, torrenting is one good way to watch movies and music, which is recommended only to be done on VPN networks because of related copyright laws. In terms of high speed torrenting also, ExpressVPN is a better choice as it securely hides your IP address, provides solid leak protection, and keeps absolutely no logs. Even though ProtonVPN gives you complete protection for torrenting, it compromises on speed.

Final Verdict: After conducting a fair comparison of VPN providers for streaming and torrenting, we can say that ExpressVPN again gains a point here.

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Platform Compatibility

ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN, both are compatible with almost all the available operating systems and apps including Windows, MacOS, Andriod, iOS, Linux, Smart TV, Chromebook, and more. Both the VPN providers enjoy a decent rating on Google Play Store and App Store. However, ExpressVPN’s Google Play Store Rating is slightly below average.

• ExpressVPN Google Play Store Rating: 2.5/ 5 where as  ProtonVPN Google Play Store Rating: 4.2/ 5
• ExpressVPN App Store Rating: 4.4/ 5 where as ProtonVPN App Store Rating: 4.5/ 5

Final Verdict: In terms of compatibility with different platforms, there’s a tie between ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN.

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Security

ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN both do not compromise when it comes to security. They offer individual features that ensure user safety and privacy while browsing or streaming.

ExpressVPN Security:

• ExpressVPN Trust Center: The trust center makes users’ systems really hard to breach. This means that even if your network has been attacked, the attacker won’t stay for long. It minimizes the risk of harm to users.
• Safe Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi safety protects VPN users from any outside attacks, rouge public Wi-Fi networks, and more.
• Threat Manager: The threat manager feature of ExpressVPN blocks websites and apps from coming in touch or communicating with any malicious trackers and third parties.
• Private DNS: ExpressVPN makes users’ VPN connections fast and safe using its own private and encrypted DNS.

ProtonVPN Security:

• Secure Core: Secure Core architecture defends VPN users against any network-based attacks. This takes care that the user’s true IP address or browsing activity is never discovered.
• NetShield: NetShield is sort of a DNS filtering function that protects VPN users against blocked ads, malware, and website trackers, keeping their activities completely anonymous.
• Swiss Privacy: Along with technical security, ProtonVPN offers legal protection. Based in Switzerland, it gives users the added advantage of being protected by the world’s best security laws.
• Physical Security: ProtonVPN’s physical servers are strategically located in high-security data centers in Switzerland, Sweden, and Iceland. This ensures that the servers are also completely secure at the hardware level.

Final Verdict: When it comes to these leading VPNs’ security features, both are equally good.

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Customer Support

Both the VPN providers, ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN offer decent support libraries that consist of FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and setup video tutorials. Moreover, both VPNs provide an extensive blog section for users to gain an in-depth understanding of the software.

When it comes to comparison, ExpressVPN is a little ahead as it provides support through 24*7 live chat and email. But, ProtonVPN doesn’t offer live chat support, users can only contact the provider through email. In fact, the response time of ExpressVPN is quicker as compared to ProtonVPN. Apart from this, no VPN offers phone support.

Final Verdict: ExpressVPN clearly provides better customer support with its 24*7 availability of live chat in comparison to ProtonVPN.

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: Plans & Pricing

ProtonVPN offers a free forever plan that allows users to access servers in 3 different countries that include US, Japan, and Netherlands. However, its VPN Plus costs ₹531.88 per month, when billed annually. Users can also check out the Proton Unlimited plan, costing ₹887.06 per month to get an easy subscription to Proton services that include ProtonMail, ProtonDrive, and ProtonCalendar.

Now coming to ExpressVPN pricing plans, unlike ProtonVPN, it does not offer a free plan. However, its pricing starts from ₹678.75 per month for a 12-month plan. Users can also choose between a one-month or a 6-month pricing plan.

Additionally, both VPNs accept payments through multiple modes including PayPal, credit/ debit cards, cryptocurrencies, etc.

Final Verdict: When it comes to pricing, ProtonVPN is a better VPN as it comes with a free forever plan, and even its premium plans are more budget-friendly than ExpressVPN.

Which One is Right for You: ExpressVPN or Proton VPN?

When choosing between Express VPN and Proton VPN, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and priorities. If you're looking for a fast and reliable VPN service, Express VPN is the right choice for you. With its fast speeds and easy-to-use interface, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for users who need a VPN service that is fast, reliable, and easy to use.

However, Proton VPN is the right choice for you if you're looking for a secure and affordable VPN service. With its strong encryption standards and strict no-logs policy, Proton VPN is an excellent choice for users who prioritize privacy and security. Proton VPN's range of pricing options, including a free plan, make it an accessible choice for users on a budget.

Ultimately, the best choice between Express VPN and Proton VPN will depend on your specific needs and priorities. If you value fast speeds and ease of use, Express VPN is the right choice. If you value security and affordability, Proton VPN is the right choice.