ExpressVPN Review 2025: All You Need to Know (Pros, Cons, and Performance)

You know the feeling — you try to watch your favorite show, but it’s geo-blocked. Or you’re worried about hackers stealing your credit card info while shopping online. Maybe you’re just fed up with slow download speeds messing up your gaming or streaming services again and again.

ExpressVPN got an 8.6 out of 10 score from CNET in its latest ExpressVPN Review (dated February 10, 2025). It offers a global server network with over 3,000 servers in more than 100 countries — but recent tests found some DNS leaks and slower speeds than before.

In this ExpressVPN Review, we keep things simple. I’ll explain what works well — and what doesn’t — to help you decide if this VPN service is worth it for better online privacy and secure browsing without slowing you down much.

Keep reading to get all the facts!

ExpressVPN in 2025: A Quick Overview

ExpressVPN is a popular virtual private network known for its strong focus on online privacy. Launched in 2009, it now has over 3,000 secure servers across 105 countries. I have found ExpressVPN easy to use — with features like split tunneling and AES-256 encryption that protect me from phishing sites and DNS leaks.

In the past year, ExpressVPN improved user privacy with RAM-only TrustedServer technology (no data logs!) and faster connection speeds using their Lightway protocol.

In 2025, ExpressVPN offers even stronger security: advanced protection features such as post-quantum encryption are built right in to keep my devices safe — whether it’s an iPhone or Smart TV — or streaming services like Disney Plus or Amazon Prime Video.

They also added Threat Manager to block harmful ads while browsing (goodbye annoying pop-ups!). Plus, new tools like the Aircove router make connecting my Xbox or Chromecast simple — and every subscription plan comes with friendly customer support ready day and night through live chat.

Core Features of ExpressVPN

Core features make a virtual private network (VPN) worth the money you spend. Users pick ExpressVPN for these key tools and services:

1. AES-256 encryption: Military-grade data protection that keeps your online privacy safe from hackers and spies — it’s used even by banks.
2. Lightway protocol: Super-fast, stable, and secure; built to improve connection times and save battery on your tablet or smartphone.
3. Post-quantum encryption: ML-KEM has now part of Lightway since October 2023, offering advanced protection features against future quantum computing attacks (sounds fancy, right?).
4. TrustedServer technology: Servers run fully in RAM-only mode with no permanent data storage, so your browsing history stays totally wiped after each reboot.
5. No-logs policy: Independent audits confirm ExpressVPN stores none of your data — your DNS requests, search history, download speeds, and upload speeds stay private.
6. Network Lock kill switch: Automatically cuts internet access if your VPN connection drops (no worries for torrenting users; you’re always protected).
7. Threat Manager: Blocks unwanted trackers automatically to protect you from harmful malware and anti-phishing attacks while surfing websites.
8. Split tunneling feature: You pick which apps will use the VPN server path — ideal for streaming platforms like Disney Plus or Amazon Prime Video while still using local sites normally.
9. Global server network coverage: Thousands of VPN servers across many global server locations to bypass geo-blocked streaming content or censorship easily (yes — you can finally stream BBC iPlayer shows!).
10. Supports 8 simultaneous device connections per subscription; now everyone at home can enjoy privacy — even Dad gaming on PlayStation or Mom watching Roku TV.
11. Aircove router compatibility: Lets you connect all IoT gadgets at once without needing extra setups — handy parental controls included here too!
12. Multi-payment subscription options are accepted from PayPal and credit cards to Bitcoin payment methods (for those who prefer complete anonymity).
13. Password manager integration helps store complex passwords safely — less stress when signing into Chromium-based browsers like Firefox or Opera daily.
14. Compatibility across devices includes popular products such as Chromebook laptops, and Apple TV sets — and yes — even Steam Deck handheld consoles get support now!

1. VPN Protocols and Performance

ExpressVPN offers various VPN services with strong protocol support, notably Lightway and OpenVPN. On a 370Mbps fiber line from Ohio in recent tests (2025), I found Lightway Protocol delivers great speeds and secure browsing performance.

Speed loss was just 8% on macOS — far better than the 29% drop with OpenVPN — and about a 40% loss on Windows versus a bigger hit of 64% with OpenVPN. ExpressVPN also supports reliable protocols like IKEv2/IPSec, giving users extra options.

Protocol switching can help improve download speeds or fix streaming platform issues, so it’s useful to switch sometimes — I often do it myself when gaming lag shows up or Netflix acts funny (“it happens”).

For example, using the nearby New York or UK server locations consistently gave me around 350-360 Mbps speed throughputs via Lightway — excellent for Disney Plus and BBC iPlayer — but changing from Lightway to OpenVPN may resolve DNS leaks or strengthen privacy and security concerns at times (though your uploads might slow down).

2. Speed and Server Network

Speed tests in January 2025 showed a speed loss of about 35%, worse than the earlier years. Germany and France gave better results, with around 340 Mbps download speeds. But Australia and Singapore were slower, at about 260-300 Mbps — not bad for streaming services like Disney Plus or Amazon Prime Video (and even BBC iPlayer).

From my own tests with qBittorrent and uTorrent, P2P sharing also worked well.

The global server network now covers more places than ever. It still runs on RAM-only servers using TrustedServer technology to protect privacy and security — so there’s no data stored once they’re switched off (good news!).

Using virtual locations can help reach restricted areas — but physical servers perform faster with lower lag times. Server load management is strong too: I noticed little slowdown even during peak hours.

3. Privacy and Logging Policies

ExpressVPN holds a strict no-logs policy to protect your online privacy. This means it never collects data on your IP address, browsing history, DNS queries, or download and upload speeds — keeping your internet activity hidden (just as you’d hope).

As of January 2025, ExpressVPN passed 19 independent audits that verify its TrustedServer technology and ram-only servers truly keep user logs out for good. Plus, bi-annual transparency reports clearly show zero user information shared — even after thousands of legal requests from authorities.

Another big plus: location matters — and ExpressVPN picked wisely with the British Virgin Islands (BVI). The BVI has strong privacy rules and does not require VPN companies like ExpressVPN to log user data or hand it over.

Also helpful is their “warrant canary,” which alerts users if any secret government demands ever pop up (“so far so good,” I’ve seen none yet!). To prove they trust their own service’s security beyond words alone — they even offer a huge $1M bug bounty for any flaws found in their system’s advanced protection features.

4. Security and Data Protection

Security sits at the center of why I rely on a virtual private network, and ExpressVPN shines here. With AES-256 encryption — that banks and governments trust — it scrambles your data so hackers can’t read it.

Plus, its Lightway protocol got stronger in October 2023 with ML-KEM (post-quantum protections). My speed tests showed that Lightway stays fast while adding this new layer of safety — great news for secure browsing fans.

Leaks can ruin privacy; I’ve run into DNS leaks before — but not here. Built-in leak protection covers DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 issues to keep my IP address hidden. There’s also TrustedServer technology: each RAM-only server wipes clean after every reset — zero saved logs ever! And if you lose connection? A kill switch instantly cuts internet access until you’re safely reconnected — for peace of mind across all devices.

5. User Interface and User Experience

ExpressVPN offers a minimalist app design, with ease of use rated 10 out of 10. Installing it on Windows or macOS takes just minutes — even faster on phones through Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

The dashboard layout is clear and simple for beginners, while advanced users will find easy access to key features like split tunneling or the kill switch.

Customization is smooth across desktop and mobile apps, allowing quick changes in VPN protocols (like their own Lightway protocol), picking favorite server locations from the global server network, and setting privacy options.

ExpressVPN also provides handy accessibility features such as MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) for smart TVs and gaming systems that don’t support regular virtual private networks, plus compatibility with pre-configured Aircove routers ($165) and Aircove Go routers ($145).

6. Compatibility and Supported Platforms

Choosing a virtual private network means you need it to work across all your devices. I’ve checked out how ExpressVPN matches up in 2025, and here’s what I found about compatibility and supported platforms:

1. Windows OS app is clear and easy, offering split tunneling and Lightway protocol for secure browsing.
2. macOS users get full VPN support with threat manager tools, kill switch, and AES-256 encryption right on their Apple gear.
3. Android mobile app offers a simple setup — plus the handy password manager tool using Google Pay for quick buys on subscription plans.
4. iOS users have an ad blocker function built in along with TrustedServer technology to protect online privacy fully.
5. Linux works via command line (CLI), giving advanced protection features like DNS leak prevention without fancy GUIs — perfect for “techy” types.
6. Firestick from Amazon Prime Video has direct ExpressVPN installation so streaming services like Disney Plus or BBC iPlayer stay smooth without geo-blocking.
7. Roku devices use MediaStreamer smart DNS setting since Roku doesn’t run VPN apps directly — it easily beats location limits on your favorite streaming platforms anyway (“take that Netflix borders!”).
8. Gaming consoles including PlayStation and Xbox also benefit from the MediaStreamer option; casual gamers can lower ping by connecting game servers closer through a global server network.
9. Smart TVs without native VPN apps get set up through Aircove routers priced at $165 or the smaller Aircove Go router at $145 — easy plug-and-use VPN coverage in seconds over Wi-Fi (“zero headaches here”).
10. Browser extensions come ready-made for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers — great shortcut controls plus extra security layers like multi-hop connections.
11. Routers of many kinds support ExpressVPN setups — not just Aircove brands mentioned above — letting you connect up to 8 gadgets per account at one time (no need to fight family members over logins!).

7. Streaming and Entertainment Access

ExpressVPN still excels at streaming services in 2025. In my tests, it easily unlocked Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer — even the tough geo-blocks didn’t stand a chance (“nice try,” guys).

I streamed shows smoothly in 4K Ultra HD with zero buffering; download speeds stayed fast and stable. The built-in MediaStreamer Smart DNS tool works great on devices that don’t support standard VPN apps — like smart TVs or game consoles — letting you enjoy secure browsing from any device at home (even your grandma’s old TV).

8. Torrenting and P2P Support

If you plan to use a virtual private network for torrenting, then the good news: all servers on ExpressVPN support P2P file-sharing traffic. You won’t find dedicated P2P-enabled servers or port forwarding here (bummer!), but unlimited bandwidth and impressive download speeds still make it great for peer-to-peer activities.

Plus, nearby server connections see less than 10% speed reduction — so your torrents should wrap up fast.

Privacy matters when you’re sharing files online; thankfully, ExpressVPN meets this need well with its strict no-logs policy, AES-256 encryption standard, kill switch feature, and RAM-only servers (“TrustedServer technology”).

It may not have the specialized options some VPNs provide for torrent users (like PureVPN or Private Internet Access), but privacy tools like split-tunneling do protect your data while downloading those favorite movies…or Linux distros (wink wink).

9. Bypassing Geo-Restrictions and Censorship

ExpressVPN helps you break through geo-restrictions with ease. It lets me stream movies and shows from Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video from anywhere.

Even in places like China or Iran — where censorship runs high — the VPN’s obfuscated servers hide connections so your ISP won’t throttle download speeds or block sites. And since ExpressVPN has no servers based inside mainland China itself (a smart choice if you ask me), their customer support team gives a mirror site link to safely get the app.

At schools, offices, airports — or any place that blocks certain websites — I found ExpressVPN useful for secure browsing without limits. This service uses AES-256 encryption along with Lightway protocol and TrustedServer technology to keep my access hidden from prying eyes — even tough firewalls such as China’s “Great Firewall.” The kill switch feature also adds another safety layer by instantly blocking internet traffic whenever connection drops: ideal for keeping online privacy intact in strict countries like Russia too!

10. Gaming with ExpressVPN

I’ve tried gaming with many VPNs, but nothing beats using Lightway protocol for speed. It cuts ping and lowers lag to keep games smooth (and reduce rage quits). AES-256 encryption helps block sneaky DDoS attacks or nasty swatting attempts from angry players online.

It’s super handy that a single subscription covers all my gadgets — my PC, consoles like Xbox and PlayStation, plus cloud gaming platforms too.

Finding the right server locations is simple due to ExpressVPN’s big global server network. Servers close by provide faster upload speeds and better download speeds — which are key in quick-action games (trust me on this one!).

Plus, unlimited bandwidth means no worries about hitting limits during intense raids or matches.

11. Advanced Features for Power Users

ExpressVPN offers some great features in 2025 for advanced users. These options boost online privacy and secure browsing, and let you customize your virtual private network use just the way you like it.

1. Custom Configurations and Manual Setups: For tech-savvy folks who prefer control — ExpressVPN lets you set up VPN protocols manually, such as Lightway protocol (with post-quantum encryption ML-KEM added since October 2023) or OpenVPN. You can tweak settings to get the best upload speeds, download speeds, and secure AES-256 encryption levels.
2. Router Firmware and Network-Wide Protection: ExpressVPN’s Aircove router gives protection at the router level with built-in TrustedServer technology (running ram-only servers). That way each device on your home network — like game consoles, smart TVs, or even IoT gadgets — gets VPN coverage at once.
3. Advanced Split Tunneling Use Cases: Split tunneling helps you pick what traffic travels through VPN and what goes directly to internet service providers. You might route Netflix or Disney Plus through servers abroad to access streaming platforms abroad while leaving local apps untouched for higher-speed connections in games or video chats.
4. Port Forwarding: If torrenting safely matters — a lot of users love peer-to-peer downloads — port forwarding opens specific ports so torrents run smoothly (and faster too). ExpressVPN ensures there are zero DNS leaks during torrent sessions, keeping data safe from prying eyes.
5. Static IP Options: A static IP stays fixed instead of switching like the ShuffleIP feature — which rotates IP addresses every few minutes without disconnection — for folks who need constant digital identities. This helps if you’re running a server setup yourself or need steady remote worker access over long periods.
6. Multi-Hop Connections: A cool trick is “multi-hop connections,” letting your connection bounce through multiple server locations before landing where needed for added layers of privacy and security (“double jumping” makes tracing almost impossible).
7. Password Manager – ExpressVPN Keys: Easily store logins safely using ExpressVPN Keys (included within the Identity Defender suite launched recently). It manages passwords across platforms seamlessly — and pairs well alongside VPN benefits like a no-logs policy audited by independent audits teams regularly since they moved their base operations into the British Virgin Islands jurisdiction free from strict data retention laws.
8. Identity Defender Suite (Data Protection Tools): Launched as part of broader user safety tools; this suite tracks identity theft alerts quickly while providing ID theft insurance payout support along with credit scanner checks to make sure personal finances remain protected wherever possible online.
9. Threat Manager & Parental Controls Combo Pack: With threat manager turned on plus parental controls enabled too — you block malware websites easily along with filtering unsafe content instantly (“which parents appreciate big-time”).
10. Perfect Forward Secrecy Feature Support: Every VPN session uses new secret keys thanks to perfect forward secrecy settings meaning even one cracked key won’t reveal past communications (“hackers hate this one neat trick!”).

12. Customer Support and Resources

Do you have a problem with secure browsing or VPN setup? No worries — support is easy to reach 24/7 (yes, even at 3 AM). The live chat connects you fast, often in just 5-10 minutes. Email help takes about half a day — around 12 hours — but offers clear fixes for tricky issues like DNS leaks or setting up your Aircove router.

There are lots of step-by-step video tutorials and simple guides on split tunneling, the Lightway protocol, server locations, and more. Plus there’s a friendly community space — a learning hub — to swap tips on streaming services such as Disney Plus or BBC iPlayer.

13. Plans, Pricing, and Refund Policy

ExpressVPN keeps pricing pretty clear and simple in 2025. A month-to-month plan costs $13, but better deals come with longer plans. You can grab the annual subscription for $100 (for your first 15 months), then it renews at $117 each year after that — or save extra cash by picking a long-term deal: pay just $140 upfront for your first 28 months, then the price moves to $150 per year moving forward.

Each tier includes every core feature — like Lightway protocol, AES-256 encryption, Threat Manager tools, secure browsing options with RAM-only servers, and TrustedServer technology — to keep you safe online.

Want to try before paying? ExpressVPN still offers a seven-day free trial in 2025 — and if you’re not sure yet, they give a full refund within the first 30 days (no questions asked).

Canceling is easy — I did it myself last year using live chat on their customer support page — and got my money back fast without hassle or delays through the Apple Pay payment method (they accept Bitcoin payments too!).

Considering all of this plus quick download speeds and strong privacy protections such as independent audits of their no-logs policy — it seems worth the cost compared to Proton VPN or similar services out there.

14. Business Use and Team Applications

Small businesses can use personal virtual private networks like ExpressVPN for basic online privacy. But, big companies often need special VPN plans built just for business teams, to get better security and safe remote access.

Freelancers, digital nomads, travelers, and journalists also gain from secure browsing — by guarding data with AES-256 encryption (keeping hackers away) and shielding work with a strict no-logs policy.

Corporate users may prefer advanced protection features such as split tunneling (letting only work traffic pass through the VPN). Teams spread across different server locations around the globe stay safer from surveillance or data theft by using TrustedServer technology — which runs RAM-only servers to erase all information after disconnecting — and a kill switch that blocks leaks during unstable connections.

These protections help team members safely reach company resources — and yes — even stream BBC iPlayer or Disney Plus on breaks (“no bosses looking?”).

Comparison with Competitors

I checked out how ExpressVPN compares side-by-side with NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, and a few others — it gets pretty interesting. You’ll see why ExpressVPN stands out in privacy features like RAM-only servers and Lightway protocol — or if other options might fit you better (because everyone’s different, right?).

1. ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN

ExpressVPN and NordVPN are two major VPN services — each offering a unique set of strengths and features that appeal to different user needs. Here’s a quick side-by-side summary to help you choose:

2. ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark

Let’s look at how these top VPN providers compare side by side:

3. ExpressVPN vs. Proton VPN

Here’s a quick rundown of how ExpressVPN stacks up against ProtonVPN in 2025:

When ExpressVPN is the Better Choice?

ExpressVPN is rated 8.6 out of 10 by CNET for strong online privacy and advanced protection features. It offers the Lightway protocol, so your download speeds stay fast and steady while streaming videos from Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, or even BBC iPlayer (“my go-to picks” on movie night).

With AES-256 encryption and ram-only servers (called TrustedServer technology), you get secure browsing without the risks of DNS leaks.

ExpressVPN also stands out if privacy matters more than saving money. Located in the British Virgin Islands (“the best spot to keep snooping eyes away”), it has a strict no-logs policy checked through independent audits.

Using Bitcoin payment makes subscriptions easy and private — perfect for those who care about security above all else or users dealing with tough geo-blocks like China’s Project Raven firewall (“tough cookie!”).

Potential Drawbacks or Limitations of ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN remains a strong virtual private network in 2025, but it does come with a few clear faults. Below are some downsides every VPN user should know about before subscribing:

1. Higher Cost Than Other VPNs: While ExpressVPN offers good privacy and security features — like AES-256 encryption and its own Lightway Protocol — it has higher subscription plans compared to options like NordVPN or Surfshark.
2. Slower Speeds This Year: Users currently face around a 35% drop in download speeds in 2025, slowing streaming services like Netflix, Disney Plus, or Amazon Prime Video (pretty annoying for binge-watchers).
3. Limited Device Connections: You can only connect up to 8 devices at once on one account — which is lower than competitors (Surfshark offers unlimited connections… just saying).
4. Mediocre Identity Defender Suite: Its identity protection tools feel average compared to market leaders; they aren’t great if you need advanced protection features against threats online.
5. No Multi-Hop Connections: Unlike Proton VPN or Surfshark, it doesn’t let you route traffic through two servers at once — which helps hide your location better from snoopers.
6. Weak Parental Controls: Parents may be disappointed with very basic parental controls; this makes it less helpful for families looking to manage screen time easily.
7. Bitcoin Payment Only for Crypto Users: Payments via cryptocurrency are limited only to Bitcoin right now — limiting choices for crypto fans who prefer other types of digital cash.
8. Average Upload Speed Performance: Upload speeds haven’t been impressive lately — a real downside if you’re torrenting large files often through P2P networks.
9. Slight Streaming Hiccups on BBC iPlayer: Sometimes users report failed login attempts accessing UK-based streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer due to random IP blacklists (a small pain… especially mid-series!).
10. Customer Support Response Delays: Though customer support is helpful overall, response times can run slower these days during busy periods compared with other VPN providers.
11. No RAM-Only Server Network Expansion Recently Announced: After successfully launching TrustedServer technology using RAM-only servers for a secure browsing experience earlier, we haven’t seen new big server updates lately (feels overdue by now).
12. Occasional DNS Leaks Reported By Users Online: While rare (thank goodness), there were isolated cases where DNS leaks briefly showed users’ info publicly before the “kill switch” kicked in — a concern for privacy-focused folks out there!
13. Lag Issues During Competitive Online Gaming Sessions: Gamers have complained recently of frustrating lags while using ExpressVPN’s global server network — hurting competitiveness if milliseconds matter most!
14. Fewer Advanced Tools For Power Users Compared To Competitors: Tech-savvy individuals seeking advanced customizations and deeper controls might prefer alternatives offering more detailed settings options (“power geeks,” take note!).
15. Lack Of Frequent Independent Audits Lately: They’ve conducted independent audits previously — but none very recently announced publicly — which slightly dulls trustworthiness among hardcore privacy advocates constantly looking at transparency records closely.
16. Kape Technologies Ownership Concerns: Some longtime users express privacy worries due to company ownership under Kape Technologies; though no issues appeared yet officially regarding data sharing or logging policy violations related specifically here…
17. Weak Password Manager Feature Built-in: Yes — it includes a built-in password manager — but truthfully it’s pretty basic compared to standalone dedicated apps available separately today that offer stronger functions against hackers stealing credentials online.

User Testimonials and Reputation

Many users on Trustpilot give ExpressVPN an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. They like the VPN’s download speeds, ram-only servers, and secure browsing with AES-256 encryption. People on Reddit praise its TrustedServer technology and Lightway protocol for privacy and security (even “tech geeks” agree it works well).

Yet some common complaints come up too — mainly about higher pricing compared to Surfshark or Proton VPN.

Cybersecurity experts often point out that independent audits back its no-logs policy. From my own use, customer support is quick to help if streaming platforms like Disney Plus or BBC iPlayer have issues (which does happen sometimes).

Most real user reviews seem happy with subscription plans and Bitcoin payment options — but a few do grumble about limited advanced protection features or wish multi-hop connections were easier to set up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you have some burning questions about ExpressVPN — like its download speeds, use with streaming services, or how many devices you can connect at once? Well, you’re in luck; we’ve got all the answers waiting for you below!

Final Verdict and Conclusion

ExpressVPN remains a top VPN choice in 2025 — but it’s not perfect. Recent tests showed DNS leaks and slower download speeds, which may worry advanced users. Still, ExpressVPN offers strong security with AES-256 encryption, TrustedServer tech, and a strict no-logs policy to protect online privacy.

It has an easy user interface and supports streaming services like Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer without any hassle (perfect for movie night). If you travel often or face geo-restrictions (maybe China?), ExpressVPN’s global server network helps keep your connection stable.

Price-wise though — it’s higher than Proton VPN or Surfshark — so budget-minded folks might think twice about cost versus features here. But if fast Lightway connections, and secure browsing tools like threat manager or password manager matter most — you’ll find real value in ExpressVPN this year!