Best ExpressVPN Alternatives in 2025

Why You Might Be Looking Beyond ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN has long been a leader in the VPN world, especially for users prioritizing speed, security, and ease of use. But that doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for everyone.

You might be here because:

• You want more devices on one account
• You’re looking for a lower-cost long-term plan
• You need specialized streaming or privacy features
• Or you simply want better transparency around security audits and privacy policies

No matter your reason, you’re not short on options in 2025. The VPN space has evolved fast, with several providers now offering stronger value, broader features, and even audited privacy protections that meet or exceed what ExpressVPN delivers.

In this guide, you’ll find the 5 best alternatives to ExpressVPN, handpicked based on performance, pricing, security, streaming, and ease of use. These aren’t just random picks; we evaluated over 20 services to bring you the most reliable choices this year.

Best ExpressVPN Alternatives at a Glance

Here’s a quick snapshot of the top VPNs to consider in 2025 if you’re thinking of switching from ExpressVPN.

Top 5 ExpressVPN Alternatives in Detail

These five VPNs stand out in 2025 not just because they’re cheaper or faster, but because they solve specific problems that ExpressVPN users often face. Whether you want more device flexibility, a better deal, or a stronger privacy record, these providers give you options.

1

NordVPN

Best All-Around Alternative

If you’re looking for the most balanced mix of speed, privacy, and features, NordVPN remains the top alternative to ExpressVPN in 2025.

You’ll get faster connection speeds thanks to NordLynx (its WireGuard-based protocol), robust security with Threat Protection, and an independently audited no-logs policy verified by Deloitte.

💡 Why it stands out vs. ExpressVPN:

• More server locations (5,800+ vs. 3,000+)
• Advanced features like Double VPN and Meshnet
• Greater customization for power users

✅ Pros

• Very fast speeds across all regions
• Works reliably with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime
• Regular third-party security audits
• Strong privacy policy and RAM-only servers

❌ Cons

• Desktop UI can feel dense for beginners
• Only 6 simultaneous devices (fewer than Surfshark)

💰 Starting price: $3.09/month (2-year plan)

2

Surfshark

Best for Unlimited Devices

Surfshark has become the go-to VPN for households and teams, especially if you need to connect a lot of devices without breaking the bank.

In 2025, Surfshark continues to impress with its CleanWeb ad blocker, support for WireGuard, and sleek apps on nearly every platform. Unlike ExpressVPN, you can connect unlimited devices under one plan.

💡 Why it stands out vs. ExpressVPN:

• No limit on simultaneous connections
• Built-in malware blocking (CleanWeb 2.0)
• Fully audited no-logs policy by Deloitte

✅ Pros

• Unlimited devices per subscription
• Affordable multi-year pricing
• User-friendly interface on desktop & mobile
• RAM-only server network for added security

❌ Cons

• No free plan or limited free trial
• Some advanced features are locked behind extra setup (e.g., MultiHop)

💰 Starting price: $2.49/month (2-year plan + 3 months free)

3

CyberGhost

Best for Streaming & Ease of Use

CyberGhost is a great choice if you want a plug-and-play VPN that works straight out of the box, especially for streaming.

With dedicated streaming servers optimized for platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, CyberGhost simplifies the experience. It’s also one of the most generous VPNs with a 45-day money-back guarantee on longer plans.

💡 Why it stands out vs. ExpressVPN:

• Simpler UI with pre-labeled streaming servers
• Generous refund window
• Transparent audit history and parent company background

✅ Pros

• Great for beginners and casual users
• 9,000+ servers in 90+ countries
• Strong kill switch and DNS leak protection
• 45-day money-back on extended plans

❌ Cons

• Slower speeds on long-distance servers
• Less granular protocol control

💰 Starting price: $2.11/month (2-year plan + 4 months free)

4

ProtonVPN

Best for Privacy and Transparency

If open-source values and transparent practices are your top priority, ProtonVPN is a solid choice.

It’s built by the team behind ProtonMail and offers Secure Core servers that route traffic through privacy-friendly countries like Iceland or Switzerland. ProtonVPN is one of the few VPNs that publishes transparency reports and open-sources all apps.

💡 Why it stands out vs. ExpressVPN:

• Based in Switzerland with strict privacy laws
• Full open-source code + audit reports
• Secure Core multi-hop routing for extra protection

✅ Pros

• Excellent privacy credentials
• Built-in kill switch and split tunneling
• Verified no-logs policy
• Strong free tier available

❌ Cons

• Fewer servers than competitors
• Slower speeds unless you’re on a premium plan

💰 Starting price: $4.99/month (1-year plan)

5

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Best for Advanced Users

If open-source values and transparent practices are your top priority, ProtonVPN is a solid choice.

It’s built by the team behind ProtonMail and offers Secure Core servers that route traffic through privacy-friendly countries like Iceland or Switzerland. ProtonVPN is one of the few VPNs that publishes transparency reports and open-sources all apps.

💡 Why it stands out vs. ExpressVPN:

• Based in Switzerland with strict privacy laws
• Full open-source code + audit reports
• Secure Core multi-hop routing for extra protection

✅ Pros

• Excellent privacy credentials
• Built-in kill switch and split tunneling
• Verified no-logs policy
• Strong free tier available

❌ Cons

• Fewer servers than competitors
• Slower speeds unless you’re on a premium plan

💰 Starting price: $4.99/month (1-year plan)

Feature Comparison Table

To help you quickly evaluate which VPN suits your needs best, here’s a side-by-side breakdown of the key technical and functional differences among the top 5 ExpressVPN alternatives.

Streaming & Unblocking Performance

If streaming is a priority, you’ll be glad to know that all five VPNs offer strong unblocking capabilities. However, each performs slightly differently depending on the platform and location.

Here’s how they stack up for streaming in 2025:

• NordVPN: Works seamlessly with Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more. Offers obfuscated servers for restricted networks.
• Surfshark: Great for streaming on unlimited devices, especially useful in shared households. Handles Netflix libraries in over 15 countries.
• CyberGhost: Offers dedicated streaming servers for Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and even local content platforms.
• ProtonVPN: Requires a premium plan for best performance, but once upgraded, it works reliably with major services.
• PIA: Can unblock Netflix and Prime, but performance varies; some regional servers may need manual switching.

🔗 Looking for more? Check out our full guide on Best VPNs for Streaming in 2025

Security, Privacy & Jurisdiction

When you’re picking a VPN to replace ExpressVPN, security and privacy should be non-negotiable. Here’s a look at how these alternatives handle encryption, audits, and data protection.

Key security considerations:

• Encryption Standards: All five use AES-256 encryption, which is considered military-grade.
• Protocols: WireGuard is now the industry standard for performance and security, supported by all five VPNs.
• No-Logs Policy:
  • NordVPN, Surfshark, and PIA have had independent audits verifying their no-logs status.
  • ProtonVPN is transparent, open-source, and based in privacy-friendly Switzerland.
  • CyberGhost publishes transparency reports and has been audited as well.

Jurisdiction (where each VPN is legally based):

• NordVPN: Panama (outside 5/9/14 Eyes)
• Surfshark: Netherlands (but no data retention)
• CyberGhost: Romania
• ProtonVPN: Switzerland
• PIA: United States (offset by transparency and no-logs proof)

💡 Privacy tip: Favor VPNs that operate RAM-only servers and undergo regular security audits. This ensures no long-term user data is ever written to disk.

Pricing & Money-Back Guarantees

Pricing plays a big role in switching VPNs, especially if you’re looking to save over ExpressVPN’s $8.32/month on a 12-month plan.

Here’s a breakdown of current long-term pricing in 2025:

• NordVPN: $3.09/month (2-year plan + 3 free months) – 30-day guarantee
• Surfshark: $2.49/month (2-year plan + 3 free months) – 30-day guarantee
• CyberGhost: $2.11/month (2-year plan + 4 free months) – 45-day guarantee
• ProtonVPN: $4.99/month (1-year plan) – 30-day guarantee
• PIA: $2.03/month (2-year plan + 2 free months) – 30-day guarantee

Final Thoughts: Which VPN Should You Choose?

If you’re moving away from ExpressVPN, you’re not compromising; you’re upgrading for the right reasons.

• Choose NordVPN for balanced speed, privacy, and streaming.
• Go with Surfshark if you need unlimited device coverage.
• Try CyberGhost if simplicity and streaming are top priorities.
• Use ProtonVPN if you value transparency and open-source security.
• Opt for PIA if you’re a power user who likes advanced configurations.

All five are solid ExpressVPN replacements, with better value, deeper features, and verified privacy protections in 2025.

✅ Still unsure? Take advantage of their money-back guarantees and test the one that fits your setup best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best free alternative to ExpressVPN?

ProtonVPN offers the best free plan, with no data caps and high security, but limited speeds unless upgraded.

2. Which VPN is faster than ExpressVPN?

NordVPN is consistently faster thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol, especially for long-distance servers.

3. Can I use these VPNs for Netflix and streaming?

Yes, all 5 support streaming. CyberGhost and Surfshark offer dedicated or auto-optimized servers for platforms like Netflix and Disney+.

4. Are these VPNs secure and audited?

Absolutely. NordVPN, Surfshark, and PIA have all completed third-party no-logs audits. ProtonVPN is open-source and independently verified.

5. Which VPN allows unlimited devices?

Surfshark and PIA both support unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account.

6. Do these VPNs work in China or the UAE?

NordVPN offers obfuscated servers that may work in restricted regions. Results vary, and not all VPNs guarantee access in these areas.

7. Which VPN is best for privacy?

ProtonVPN and NordVPN both offer high-end privacy features, like Secure Core and RAM-only servers.

8. Can I cancel and get a refund?

Yes, all five VPNs offer at least a 30-day money-back guarantee, and CyberGhost even gives you 45 days on long-term plans.

9. How does Surfshark compare to ExpressVPN?

Surfshark is cheaper, supports unlimited devices, and is just as secure thanks to its audited no-logs policy and WireGuard protocol.

10. What’s the most beginner-friendly VPN?

CyberGhost has the simplest interface and labeled servers, making it ideal for new VPN users.