ExpressVPN Review: Pros, Cons, Features, and Pricing
ExpressVPN is a VPN software that provides secure and private internet access. It’s ideal for businesses handling sensitive data, like finance or healthcare, and for departments focused on cybersecurity. ExpressVPN offers high-speed connections and strong encryption and addresses issues like data breaches and unsecured connections for IT and security teams.
In this article, I'll cover ExpressVPN's features, pros and cons, use cases, and pricing, so you can decide if this software aligns with your security and privacy needs and goals.
ExpressVPN Evaluation Summary
- From $12.99/month (billed annually)
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ExpressVPN Overview
In my opinion, ExpressVPN is a reliable choice for those prioritizing speed and security. It outshines others with its robust encryption and consistent performance, verified by numerous independent audits, making it ideal for IT departments focused on data protection. While its pricing may be on the higher side compared to alternatives like CyberGhost or Surfshark, the ease of integration and quality customer support justify the cost. If you’re deciding on a VPN, consider ExpressVPN for environments where security and seamless user experience are top priorities.
pros
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You get fast and reliable connection speeds.
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It offers strong encryption for secure data protection.
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Your team can enjoy a user-friendly interface.
cons
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It lacks advanced customization options for tech-savvy users.
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Our Review Methodology
How We Test & Score Tools
We’ve spent years building, refining, and improving our software testing and scoring system. The rubric is designed to capture the nuances of software selection and what makes a tool effective, focusing on critical aspects of the decision-making process.
Below, you can see exactly how our testing and scoring works across seven criteria. It allows us to provide an unbiased evaluation of the software based on core functionality, standout features, ease of use, onboarding, customer support, integrations, customer reviews, and value for money.
Core Functionality (25% of final scoring)
The starting point of our evaluation is always the core functionality of the tool. Does it have the basic features and functions that a user would expect to see? Are any of those core features locked to higher-tiered pricing plans? At its core, we expect a tool to stand up against the baseline capabilities of its competitors.
Standout Features (25% of final scoring)
Next, we evaluate uncommon standout features that go above and beyond the core functionality typically found in tools of its kind. A high score reflects specialized or unique features that make the product faster, more efficient, or offer additional value to the user.
We also evaluate how easy it is to integrate with other tools typically found in the tech stack to expand the functionality and utility of the software. Tools offering plentiful native integrations, 3rd party connections, and API access to build custom integrations score best.
Ease of Use (10% of final scoring)
We consider how quick and easy it is to execute the tasks defined in the core functionality using the tool. High scoring software is well designed, intuitive to use, offers mobile apps, provides templates, and makes relatively complex tasks seem simple.
Onboarding (10% of final scoring)
We know how important rapid team adoption is for a new platform, so we evaluate how easy it is to learn and use a tool with minimal training. We evaluate how quickly a team member can get set up and start using the tool with no experience. High scoring solutions indicate little or no support is required.
Customer Support (10% of final scoring)
We review how quick and easy it is to get unstuck and find help by phone, live chat, or knowledge base. Tools and companies that provide real-time support score best, while chatbots score worst.
Customer Reviews (10% of final scoring)
Beyond our own testing and evaluation, we consider the net promoter score from current and past customers. We review their likelihood, given the option, to choose the tool again for the core functionality. A high scoring software reflects a high net promoter score from current or past customers.
Value for Money (10% of final scoring)
Lastly, in consideration of all the other criteria, we review the average price of entry level plans against the core features and consider the value of the other evaluation criteria. Software that delivers more, for less, will score higher.
Core Features
Encryption Protocols: ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption, ensuring your data stays private and secure. This is the same level of encryption used by governments worldwide.
Network Lock (Kill Switch): This functionality cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops, protecting your data from exposure to ISPs or trackers. The service also includes a built-in ad blocker and the powerful Threat Manager to stop communication with malicious third parties.
No-Logs Policy: ExpressVPN doesn’t keep logs of your online activity, ensuring your privacy. You can trust that your browsing history remains confidential.
High-Speed Servers: You get access to fast and reliable servers, supporting smooth browsing and streaming. The proprietary Lightway protocol (built like WireGuard but with added privacy features) ensures efficient and stable connections. This is crucial for uninterrupted work and entertainment.
Multi-Device Support: Connect up to five devices simultaneously with one subscription. Your team can secure multiple gadgets without needing extra accounts.
DNS Leak Protection: This feature prevents DNS leaks, keeping your browsing history hidden from ISPs. Your online activity remains private and secure.
Ease of Use
ExpressVPN stands out for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for your team to navigate without technical expertise. Installation of the ExpressVPN app is quick, and the app's clean design ensures you can connect with just one click. Users appreciate the intuitive layout and straightforward settings, which reduce the learning curve. Compared to other VPNs, ExpressVPN's usability is top-notch, allowing you to focus on your work without getting bogged down by complicated configurations.
Integrations
ExpressVPN integrates with AnyTrack.io, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, Apple TV, and Kindle Fire.
ExpressVPN does not offer an API, but it connects with third-party integration tools like AnyTrack.io.
ExpressVPN Specs
- 2-Factor Authentication
- Access Management
- Anti-Virus
- API
- Audit Trail
- Bug Tracking
- Calendar Management
- Customer Management
- Dashboard
- Data Export
- Data Import
- Data Visualization
- Email Integration
- External Integrations
- File Sharing
- File Transfer
- Firewall
- Google Apps Integration
- Inventory Tracking
- Malware Protection
- Multi-User
- Network Device Performance Monitoring
- Network Traffic Monitoring
- Network Visualization
- Notifications
- Project Management
- Remote Access
- Risk Assessment
- SAP Integration
- Scheduling
- Software Integration
- Third-Party Plugins/Add-Ons
- Ticket Management
