ExpressVPN Review 2024: A Comprehensive Guide to Features, Pricing and More

ExpressVPN Review 2024: ExpressVPN is one of the most popular and trusted Virtual Private Network (VPN) service providers available in 2024. Known for its robust security features and high-speed performance, ExpressVPN is an ideal choice for users who want to safeguard their online activities, unblock content, and access geo-restricted websites. In this review, we will explore ExpressVPN’s features, pricing, and unique offerings to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

What Is ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN is a VPN service designed to protect your online privacy and security. By routing your internet traffic through secure servers located in various countries, ExpressVPN hides your IP address and encrypts your data, providing a secure connection on public or unsecured networks. With servers in 105 countries and support for up to eight devices, ExpressVPN offers a powerful solution for individuals and businesses looking to browse the internet privately. In India, ExpressVPN stands out as a provider that offers virtual servers, meaning Indian users can connect to servers located outside India, thereby bypassing local internet restrictions and censorship.

ExpressVPN Review 2024

ExpressVPN is a top-tier VPN service that provides fast, secure, and private internet access across 105 countries. It offers robust security features like AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch. Users can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously or opt for an ExpressVPN-compatible router to secure all devices at once. While pricier than some alternatives, it delivers excellent performance for streaming, gaming, and bypassing geo-restrictions. The service also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free testing.

Key Features of ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN comes packed with essential features designed to enhance your online experience. Here are some of the key features that set it apart from other VPN services:

1. Advanced Encryption and DNS Protection

ExpressVPN uses AES-256 bit encryption, widely regarded as the gold standard in online security, to keep your internet activity safe from prying eyes. Additionally, ExpressVPN runs its own encrypted DNS servers, further enhancing privacy and improving internet speeds by eliminating reliance on third-party DNS services.

2. Bypass Geo-Restrictions

With ExpressVPN, users can easily access geo-blocked content from streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Hotstar. Whether you want to access British TV shows or stream US-based content, ExpressVPN makes it possible by allowing you to connect to servers in over 105 countries.

3. Unlock Websites and Apps

If you’re facing censorship or restrictions on the internet, ExpressVPN is a reliable tool to bypass government-imposed firewalls or content blocks. This is particularly useful for users in countries with heavy internet censorship, including India, as well as for individuals looking to access blocked social media platforms or services.

4. Game with Enhanced Security

Gamers will appreciate ExpressVPN’s ability to reduce ping, lower latency, and minimize lag. This feature improves the overall gaming experience, making it an excellent choice for gaming enthusiasts. ExpressVPN also protects gamers by hiding their IP addresses, preventing DDoS attacks that could disrupt gameplay.

5. RAM-Only Servers

ExpressVPN utilizes RAM-only servers that do not store any user data. This means your data is wiped each time the server is rebooted, ensuring there is no log retention, which is a key feature for privacy-conscious users.

6. Split Tunneling

Split tunneling allows you to route certain traffic through the VPN, while other activities can bypass the VPN connection. This feature can be useful for banking apps, which may block access when using a VPN, or for users who want to access both local and international content simultaneously.

7. Kill Switch (Network Lock)

In case your VPN connection drops unexpectedly, ExpressVPN’s Network Lock (kill switch) feature ensures your sensitive data remains protected by blocking your device from accessing the internet. Once the VPN connection is restored, your device will automatically reconnect.

8. Aircove Wi-Fi Router

A unique offering from ExpressVPN is its Aircove Wi-Fi router, which provides VPN protection to all connected devices in your home or office. This dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router covers up to 1,600 square feet and supports five simultaneous connections, ensuring secure and fast internet access for multiple devices.

How ExpressVPN Works

ExpressVPN offers virtual servers to help bypass local restrictions without having to worry about data retention laws. After the Indian government introduced a law requiring VPN providers to store logs of user activity, ExpressVPN shut down its physical servers in India but continues to serve users through virtual servers located in other countries.

By connecting to a virtual server, Indian users can maintain their privacy while accessing global content. The virtual server setup allows users to enjoy the same level of security and encryption that ExpressVPN is known for.

Pros of ExpressVPN

Secure Wi-Fi Router (Aircove) – ExpressVPN’s Aircove router is an excellent solution for securing all devices on your network, including IoT devices, gaming consoles, and more.
No Data Logging – ExpressVPN operates on a strict no-logs policy, ensuring user privacy and security.
Fast Speeds – ExpressVPN is known for its high-speed servers that deliver consistent, fast performance, even for bandwidth-heavy activities like streaming and gaming.
Cross-Platform Compatibility – ExpressVPN is compatible with a variety of devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, gaming consoles, routers, and more.
Customer Support – ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, ensuring quick assistance if you encounter any issues.

Cons of ExpressVPN

Higher Pricing – ExpressVPN is on the pricier side compared to some of its competitors. While it offers great features and a reliable service, users seeking budget-friendly VPN options may find alternatives more cost-effective.
Refund Issues – Some users have reported challenges with the 30-day money-back guarantee, citing difficulties in processing refunds.

ExpressVPN Pricing Plans

ExpressVPN offers several flexible subscription plans, catering to different budgets and usage needs. While the service is generally on the pricier side, it offers discounts and a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free trials.

Plan Type	Monthly Pricing	Semi-Annual Pricing	Annual Pricing	Mobile-Only Plan
Standard Plan	INR 1,087.06 ($12.95)	INR 838.59 ($9.99) per month	INR 559.44 ($6.67) per month (Annual, with 3 months free)	INR 1,150 per month (Android/iOS)
Billing Frequency	Monthly	Every six months	Annually (+3 months free)	Monthly or Annually
Money-back Guarantee	30-day	30-day	30-day	7-day Free Trial (iOS) / 30-day Trial (Android)

Note: ExpressVPN requires an upfront payment for all plans, but a 30-day money-back guarantee ensures that you can get a full refund if you’re not satisfied with the service.

What are the Available Payment Methods:

Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
PayPal
Bitcoin
Other regional payment options

After completing your purchase, you’ll receive a confirmation email and access details for your account.

Free Trial and Money-Back Guarantee

ExpressVPN does not offer a free version of its service, but it does provide a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can sign up, try out the full features, and request a refund within the first 30 days if you’re not satisfied.

For mobile-only users (Android and iOS), ExpressVPN offers a 7-day free trial for iOS and up to 30 days for Android users. After the trial period ends, users will be charged according to the chosen plan unless they cancel before the trial ends.

Is ExpressVPN Worth the Price?

ExpressVPN is a feature-rich VPN provider that offers fast speeds, high security, and reliable access to global content. The service is ideal for users who prioritize privacy, security, and accessing content from different regions, particularly in countries with high censorship or geo-restrictions.

While the pricing may be higher than some other VPN services, ExpressVPN’s performance, customer support, and range of features (like the Aircove router) make it a great choice for users willing to invest in top-tier privacy protection.

How to Set Up ExpressVPN: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting started with ExpressVPN is simple and straightforward. Whether you’re a tech-savvy user or a beginner, setting up the VPN on your devices takes just a few minutes. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you set up and start using ExpressVPN.

Step 1: Sign Up for an ExpressVPN Account

To begin using ExpressVPN, you first need to sign up on their official website. Choose the plan that best suits your needs, whether it’s the monthly, semi-annual, or annual plan. Once you’ve chosen a plan, complete the payment process.

Step 2: Install the Software or App

Once you’ve signed up and received your credentials, you can download and install the ExpressVPN software or app on your devices. The app is available for:

Windows and macOS computers
Android and iOS smartphones
Routers, Smart TVs, and Streaming Devices like Amazon Fire TV, Roku, and Android TV

For mobile users, you can also find the ExpressVPN app on the Google Play Store (for Android) or the Apple App Store (for iOS).

Step 3: Log In with Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

After installing the app, open it and log in using your account details. ExpressVPN enhances your security with two-factor authentication (2FA). This means you’ll need to enter a code sent to your email or device for additional protection during login.

Step 4: Choose a Server and Connect

Once logged in, ExpressVPN will automatically connect you to the best available server based on your location. Alternatively, you can manually select a server from ExpressVPN’s extensive list of server locations. For users in India, ExpressVPN provides virtual servers outside the country to ensure privacy and security.

ExpressVPN: An Easy-to-Use VPN for Everyone

One of the standout features of ExpressVPN is its simplicity. The service is designed to be intuitive and accessible, even for users with minimal technical knowledge. Here’s how ExpressVPN performs in terms of ease of use.

User Interface (UI)

ExpressVPN’s user interface is clean, simple, and consistent across all platforms. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, or streaming devices, navigating the app is a breeze. Key features like connecting to servers, switching between locations, and enabling security features (kill switch, DNS protection) are all easy to access.

Key UI Features:

One-click connection: Instantly connect to the fastest server.
Easy-to-navigate menus: All settings and features are easy to find and manage.
Split tunneling: Allows users to select which apps should use the VPN and which should bypass it.

ExpressVPN Servers and Locations

ExpressVPN has a vast network of servers, spanning 105 countries across multiple continents. However, after the Government of India enacted a law requiring VPN providers to store user logs, ExpressVPN shut down its physical servers in India. Despite this, Indian users still have access to virtual servers that can route traffic to other countries.

Virtual Servers in India

Indian users can still connect to virtual servers that provide the same benefits as physical servers. These virtual servers enable users to bypass geo-restrictions and censorship, while ensuring their data remains private.

Server Locations Overview

ExpressVPN has a significant presence worldwide, including in regions like:

North America (United States, Canada)
Europe (United Kingdom, Germany, France)
Asia (Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong)
Australia and New Zealand
Middle East and Africa

Obfuscated Servers for Enhanced Privacy

ExpressVPN also offers obfuscated servers, which are designed to hide your VPN traffic, making it harder for anyone (including ISPs and governments) to detect you’re using a VPN. This is particularly useful in countries with strict internet censorship.

Speed and Performance of ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is widely regarded as one of the fastest VPNs on the market. It utilizes a custom VPN protocol called Lightway, designed to provide faster speeds and better overall performance compared to traditional VPN protocols.

ExpressVPN Speed Test Results

Users can test ExpressVPN’s speed using the built-in speed test feature within the app. The VPN offers consistent, high-speed performance, with minimal impact on internet speeds. It claims to support 4K streaming on up to eight devices simultaneously, a testament to its robust bandwidth management.

ExpressVPN Speed Features:

Tier-1 Bandwidth Providers: ExpressVPN runs its service on premium infrastructure to ensure optimal speed.
High-Speed VPN Lightway Protocol: Optimized for faster connections, especially for streaming and gaming.
Aircove Wi-Fi Router: The Aircove router supports high-speed internet across multiple devices and features Wi-Fi 6, offering seamless streaming even in large households.

Testing Methodology

ExpressVPN’s speed performance is dependent on factors like server location, the user’s ISP, device used, and network conditions. However, it consistently ranks as one of the best in terms of speed.

Privacy and Security Features

ExpressVPN is known for its strong privacy and security features, making it a top choice for users who are serious about protecting their online data. The VPN uses AES-256-bit encryption, which is the industry standard for securing internet traffic.

TrustedServer Technology

ExpressVPN employs TrustedServer technology, which ensures that all servers run entirely on RAM. This means no user data is stored on a hard drive, and all information is wiped each time the server is restarted, ensuring no logs are retained.

Independent Audits for Transparency

To build trust with its users, ExpressVPN has undergone independent audits by KPMG and Cure53. These audits examine the company’s privacy policy, security practices, and server technologies. The most recent audit, conducted by KPMG, focused on the company’s privacy practices and the protection of user data.

Additional Security Features:

Kill Switch: Known as Network Lock, it ensures that your internet connection is automatically cut off if the VPN connection drops.
Multi-Factor Authentication: Adds an extra layer of security when logging into your account.

Customer Support and Service

ExpressVPN prides itself on offering 24/7 customer support, which is crucial for users who may need help setting up the service or troubleshooting issues. Support is available through live chat on their official website, and for more complex inquiries, you can submit a ticket or email their team.

Support Features:

Live Chat: Instant assistance available anytime.
Knowledge Base: Extensive FAQs, setup guides, and troubleshooting tutorials on the website.
Email Support: For more complex issues or billing inquiries.

Device Compatibility with ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN allows you to connect up to eight devices simultaneously, which is more than enough for most users. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS, ExpressVPN has apps for all these platforms.

For users who need to connect more devices, ExpressVPN offers the Aircove Wi-Fi router, which can secure your entire home network, including IoT devices like smart TVs, streaming boxes, and gaming consoles.

Supported Devices:

Windows, Mac, Linux computers
Android, iOS smartphones and tablets
Routers (for securing all devices at once)
Smart TVs, Streaming Devices (Amazon Fire TV, Roku)
Gaming Consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch)

ExpressVPN for Streaming

One of the most popular uses of ExpressVPN is for streaming geo-restricted content. Whether you’re watching movies, sports events, or TV shows from different countries, ExpressVPN lets you bypass local content restrictions and access streaming platforms with ease.

Unblocking Popular Streaming Platforms:

Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video
Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer
Hotstar, ESPN, NBC (for sports streaming)

With ExpressVPN, users can enjoy a smooth streaming experience without buffering or ISP throttling, and access content from countries where certain shows or movies might be unavailable.

ExpressVPN vs. Competitors

Here’s how ExpressVPN compares with some of its biggest competitors:

Feature	ExpressVPN	Surfshark	PureVPN	NordVPN
Standard Annual Price	INR 559.44 ($6.67) per month	INR 250.78 ($2.99) per month	INR 334.93 ($3.99) per month	INR 418.53 ($4.99) per month
Devices	8	Unlimited	10	10
Dedicated IP	Yes	Yes	No	No
Kill Switch	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Split Tunneling	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Multi-Factor Authentication	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
No-Logs Policy	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Customer Support	24/7 live chat	24/7 live chat	24/7 live chat	24/7 live chat
VPN Router	Yes	No	No	No

Is ExpressVPN Legal in India?

Yes, ExpressVPN is legal to use in India. However, using VPN services for illegal activities is still prohibited under Indian law. Despite the Indian government’s request for VPN companies to store user data, ExpressVPN has maintained its no-logs policy and removed its physical servers from India. Indian users can still connect to virtual servers in other countries to access secure and private browsing.

Should You Choose ExpressVPN?

If you’re looking for a premium VPN service that guarantees fast speeds, robust security, and global content access, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice. Its compatibility with a wide range of devices, no-logs policy, and advanced features like split tunneling, kill switch, and RAM-only servers set it apart from many competitors. While the pricing might be higher, the service is reliable and secure, making it ideal for those who need a trustworthy VPN for both personal and business use.

Conclusion: Is ExpressVPN Right for You?

If you’re looking for a reliable, fast, and secure VPN that prioritizes privacy and offers extensive device compatibility, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice. Its easy setup, high-speed performance, robust security features, and ability to unblock geo-restricted content make it ideal for both personal and business use.

For users in India, ExpressVPN offers a great solution for bypassing content censorship while ensuring complete privacy, even after the country’s legal changes regarding VPN use. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or just browsing the web securely, ExpressVPN provides the tools you need to stay protected and enjoy an unrestricted internet experience.