Your Premium Privacy Service
Reviewed and tested on 18 August 2025. 🔎
ExpressVPN in 2025 at a glance
ExpressVPN is a premium privacy service that has stayed focused on two things that actually matter for everyday use. First, it keeps your data away from prying eyes with proven technology and clear no logs commitments. Second, it makes private browsing and streaming simple for anyone to set up and use. In my latest round of testing across laptops, phones, and a living room setup, it remained a solid performer, albeit at a premium price. 👍
Security and privacy credentials 🔒
ExpressVPN runs all servers in memory using its TrustedServer design. That means data is wiped on every reboot and nothing is written to disk. The company states a strict no logs policy that has been checked by independent auditors multiple times. I care about this because privacy claims should be verified, not trusted on faith. The apps include a kill switch called Network Lock to block traffic if the tunnel drops, plus leak protections that worked cleanly in my tests. ExpressVPN is American, but they are based in the British Virgin Islands which has no mandatory data retention laws. All of this adds up to a strong privacy posture that I am fairly comfortable recommending.
Speed and performance 🚀
Speeds felt consistently quick on Lightway which is ExpressVPN’s own protocol. On my home fibre line I could stream ultra high definition video while downloading game updates and still browse without sluggishness. Connections established quickly and stayed stable for long sessions. ExpressVPN has also introduced WireGuard with post quantum protection, though Lightway remains the default and still feels like the best choice on most devices. If your line is congested, the Smart Location option usually picks a smoother route than guessing by yourself.
Apps, usability, and setup
Setup is pleasantly simple. Download the app, sign in, tap the big button, and you are protected. The layout is uncluttered with clear toggles for essentials like auto connect, split tunneling, and the kill switch. The browser extensions act as a remote control for the desktop app and add handy extras like geolocation spoofing. Linux users can now choose a full graphical app as well as the command line, which makes life easier if you prefer a point and click approach. Overall, this is the friendliest set of apps in the category. 😊
Streaming and torrenting 🎬
For streaming, ExpressVPN remains reliable. I watched major services on smart TVs and consoles using the MediaStreamer smart DNS when native apps did not support a full VPN. In the few cases where a service pushed back, switching to another UK or US location solved it but this was a frustration. For torrenting, there are no server restrictions and bandwidth is unlimited. The kill switch prevented leaks during deliberate drop tests. If you want strict port forwarding you will need the router setup rather than the regular apps which adds a layer of complexity.
Server network and protocols
ExpressVPN lists locations in one hundred and five countries which is pretty good but far from being one of the broadest footprints you can buy today. Lightway is the default protocol and is open to inspection with third party audits. OpenVPN is available if you prefer a familiar standard. WireGuard is now offered with post quantum safeguards for those who want it. I used Lightway almost everywhere because it reconnects instantly when moving between Wi Fi and mobile, which is great for travel.
Pricing and plans 💷
Plans are billed in United States dollars, which I don’t like as you are subject to currency fluctuations. Current headline rates are one month, one year, and two years with the best value on the longest term. There is a thirty day money back guarantee on direct purchases, which I have tested before without drama. If you are in the United Kingdom your bank or card will convert to pounds automatically at the rate of the day. Prices were checked on 18 August 2025.
Bundled and add on tools
Keys password manager comes included with any subscription. It stores unlimited passwords, payment details, and secure notes, and it can alert you to breached or weak passwords. I found it good enough to replace a separate password app for typical home use.
Advanced protection adds tracker blocking, an ad blocker, and simple parental controls in one place. These toggles reduce clutter while you browse and cut down on cross site profiling. There is also a dedicated IP add on that is being rolled out in stages. It is useful for banking sites and remote access tools that do not like changing addresses.
Device limits and whole home cover
One subscription allows up to eight devices to be connected at the same time. That covered a couple of phones, two laptops, a tablet, and a desktop during my tests without a problem. If you need to protect everything on your network, use the ExpressVPN router app or buy the Aircove router. That gives cover to smart TVs, consoles, and gadgets that cannot run a VPN app by themselves. 🏠
Customer support and reliability 💬
Live chat is available all day every day and the agents actually solve problems instead of pasting scripts. Setup guides are clear and kept current, and the service publishes regular transparency posts about legal requests and audits. Over the past year my tickets were answered within minutes and resolved on the first try.
What I like and what I would change
- What stands out: clean apps, quick and steady speeds on Lightway, strong audits, excellent router story, built in password manager, and useful privacy extras.
- What I would change: the price is much higher than many rivals, the eight device cap can pinch large households, and the dedicated IP add on is still rolling out which means not everyone will see it at checkout.
Our methodology and ongoing monitoring 🧪
I test each VPN on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux with a mix of fibre at home and mobile data on the road. I check for DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, measure connection times, try a dozen everyday tasks, and stream across the usual platforms. I also read through privacy policies and audit notes in full. Details are rechecked on a regular schedule so this page stays accurate. If ExpressVPN changes pricing, device limits, or adds new features like protocol updates, I will refresh this review.
Who should pick ExpressVPN
If you want a service that just works across every device Surfshark is the goto, and if you value proven privacy practices over all else, ProtonVPN is the safest pick. If you need the absolute lowest price or unlimited devices on one account, a NordVPN may fit better. If you want an American made VPN and are happy to pay a premium, then Express VPN is for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ExpressVPN keep logs
No. The company states that it keeps no activity logs and no connection logs. This claim has been examined by outside auditors on multiple occasions.
How many devices can I use at once
Up to eight devices can be connected at the same time on one subscription, with unlimited installs across your gadgets.
Is there a money back guarantee
Yes. You get a thirty day money back guarantee on direct purchases which allows a full refund within the window if the service is not for you.
Can I get a static address for banking or remote access
Yes. A dedicated IP add on is available and is being introduced in phases. If you do not see it on your checkout page, check back on your account page later.
Is there an ad blocker
Yes. The Advanced protection section includes tracker blocking, an ad blocker, and simple parental controls that are easy to toggle on or off.
Which protocol should I use
Lightway is the best starting point for most people because it connects fast and handles roaming well. OpenVPN is available for compatibility. WireGuard is now offered with post quantum protection for those who prefer it.
Note for readers: the information above was checked on 18 August 2025 and reflects the latest features and policies at that time.
