VPN comparison · 2026
ExpressVPN vs Proton VPN (2026 Comparison)
Side-by-side: pricing, features, pros, cons, and our editorial winner for vpn.
Winner summary
ExpressVPN vs Proton VPN: how they differ
We have not scored ExpressVPN against our rubric yet, so we are not naming an overall winner here. The dimensions below are still directly comparable.
Cheaper
ExpressVPN
Higher rated
Not compared
Better free tier
Proton VPN
Proton VPN
Privacy-first VPN with a real free tier
Not yet scored
$4.99/mo
Feature comparison
| Dimension | ExpressVPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $3.49/mo | $4.99/mo |
| Free trial | 30-day money-back | Free plan |
| Best for | Streaming & ease of use | Privacy maximalists |
| Badge | Premium | — |
ExpressVPN key features
- Lightway, WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols
- Servers in 113 countries
- TrustedServer in-house server technology
- 10 to 14 simultaneous devices depending on plan
- 24/7 live chat
Proton VPN key features
- Free unlimited-data tier
- Secure Core (Swiss/Iceland routing)
- Open-source apps
- WireGuard + Stealth
- Audited no-logs
ExpressVPN — pros & cons
Pros
- Easiest VPN apps in the market
- Excellent for streaming
- Independently audited by KPMG, PwC and Cure53 (company-stated)
- Registered in the British Virgin Islands
Cons
- The entry price needs a multi-year term and the Basic plan renews at $99.95 a year (about $8.33/mo)
- WireGuard is not available in every app (iOS, Android and Windows only)
Proton VPN — pros & cons
Pros
- Best free tier in the market
- Open-source & frequent audits
- Strong Swiss jurisdiction
Cons
- Free servers can be slow
- Streaming unblocking less consistent
When to pick which
Choose ExpressVPN if…
- Streaming Netflix/BBC
- Privacy
- Travel
Choose Proton VPN if…
- Activists & journalists
- Free privacy
- Linux users