ExpressVPN has long been hailed as a virtual private network (VPN) service every user should purchase. The company offers exceptional service and ample security. However, recent reports have come to light that has made us doubt ExpressVPN’s sincerity. Most notably, a top ex-employee of ExpressVPN has been slapped with a $1.6 million fine in a hacking-related charge. With the top management being charged for the very thing they vow to protect against, it’s natural that many users’ faith has been shaken from ExpressVPN. If you are part of the VPN crowd looking to switch away from the service, we have you covered. Given below are the best ExpressVPN alternatives you can use in 2021.

The list below contains some of the best ExpressVPN alternatives you should check out. However, we understand that sorting your way through everything can get a bit overwhelming. For easier navigation, use the table below and check out specific VPN services to weigh their pros and cons.

  • Reasons You Should Consider ExpressVPN Alternatives

  • Lack of TrustCompetitors Have Better PricingVPN Service LocationAdvantages of Using a VPN Service

  • Stream Anything from Anywhere AnytimeAccess Blocked WebsitesSafer GamingPublic Wi-Fi SafetyP2P/ TorrentingMake Online Calls SafelyThings to Look For When Choosing a VPN ServiceBest ExpressVPN Alternatives You Should Get

  • SurfsharkNordVPNPrivate Internet AccessCyberGhost VPNProtonVPNMullvad VPNIPVanishTunnelBear

  • Lack of TrustCompetitors Have Better PricingVPN Service Location

  • Stream Anything from Anywhere AnytimeAccess Blocked WebsitesSafer GamingPublic Wi-Fi SafetyP2P/ TorrentingMake Online Calls Safely

  • SurfsharkNordVPNPrivate Internet AccessCyberGhost VPNProtonVPNMullvad VPNIPVanishTunnelBear

Reasons You Should Consider ExpressVPN Alternatives

Unfortunately, ExpressVPN has now given online users some valid reasons to switch away from its service. If you are unsure whether to take the leap or not, consider the reasons below to get an ExpressVPN alternative.

While we, as Internet users, take a VPN company’s claims at face value, this trust can be easily broken. That is exactly what has happened in this scenario. A VPN company that promises anonymity and protection to millions of users has had employees with a history of helping countries hack everyday people. If that is not a big red flag, we don’t know what is.

If you’re an ExpressVPN customer, you shouldn’t be. https://t.co/l8us92W0BQ— Edward Snowden (@Snowden) September 16, 2021

While ExpressVPN claims to be good at its job, it’s no secret that the VPN service is borderline expensive. If you are looking for a more affordable ExpressVPN alternative, you will be glad to know there are some good selections available below.

While ExpressVPN is based out of the British Virgin Islands, which has no data retention laws, its equally good alternatives are placed in similar Internet-friendly locations. So, new or old users thinking they are missing out on something can breathe a sigh of relief and go for any of the alternatives below.

If you are a new customer and reading this article to get the best VPN recommendations, we have you covered as well. A VPN service will offer you a plethora of advantages and features over your existing unprotected internet connection. If you are still unsure, have a look at some of the key advantages of using a VPN:

A VPN allows you to visit websites that have are not available in your region. This advantage applies to almost every website out there too. All you need to do is switch on your VPN service and enter the blocked website address.

3. Safer Gaming

Want to add an extra layer of security while you game? Well, the VPN is there for you. The use of virtual private networks will add an extra shield to your experience and provide protection against DDoS attacks, among much more.

Most public Wi-Fi networks are open and are grossly unsafe for making sensitive transactions. A VPN will hide your activity and make sure no malicious hacker can steal your data. Not only can you open your run-of-the-mill websites, but even make transactions on an airport Wi-Fi network while using your VPN.

Many of us like to Torrent or share files with our peers but don’t want anyone getting wind of it. A VPN gives you anonymity while your P2P client hums safely in the background. Note that we don’t support the downloading of unsanctioned copyright material via a Torrent app like uTorrent, it is illegal and could get you in trouble.

We understand that confidential business requires confidentiality. Put a virtual shield on your connection and make your calls even more secure through a VPN. It applies to both voice and video calls and even messaging.

Things to Look For When Choosing a VPN Service

While most VPN companies offer the same features with minor differences, there are some important factors you should keep an eye out for before buying a VPN service. Watching out for the things below will ensure your VPN experience is pleasant, and more importantly, a safe one. Look for these while choosing a VPN service:

  • Server Location – You buy a VPN service and want to watch Knives Out on Netflix Japan, but suddenly realize that country isn’t on the list. Make sure you check the server locations supported by your VPN service provider, so you have a better idea of what countries you can connect to before you sign-up.

  • Simultaneous Devices – Most VPNs will give you a plentiful number of devices you can run the service on. But always check the number yourself, so you can have the service signed on all the devices and ready for access when you need it.

  • VPN Protocol – While most users prefer to leave specifics under the hood, you should be aware of certain keywords being mentioned by your service provider. Protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKeV2 are good choices for a secure experience. Some VPNs even allow users to choose a desired protocol from the settings.

So yeah, that’s pretty much everything you need to keep in mind before picking up one of the ExpressVPN alternatives listed below.

1. Surfshark

There are multiple reasons why Surfshark takes the #1 spot on our list. Let’s break them down. The first thing that caught our eye was the different UI. In a world full of professional advertising and technical columns, Surfshark stands out in a funny, almost comical way. From the companies logo to its light-hearted advertising, there is a disarming effect that makes you want to try it out. But don’t worry, we weren’t swayed so easily.

Simplicity At Its Core

The server list is also a big plus. From a choice of countries that includes the likes of Albania to Vietnam, there are plenty of options abound. From the easy navigation to various countries we could connect with to more intimate settings like turning on CleanWeb that blocks trackers and malware, the experience was bliss.

Platforms – Windows/ macOS/ iOS/ Android/ Chrome/ LinuxTrial – 7 day trial with 100% money-back guaranteePrice – $59.76 for two years (Only VPN)Servers – 3200+ in 65 countriesSimultaneous Devices – UnlimitedCheck Out Surfshark

PROS:

CONS:

From one of its data centers being hacked in 2018 to today, NordVPN has slowly but surely been making its way back to the VPN game. And while not everyone will be comfortable trusting a company with a data breach, Nord’s No-Logs Policy ensured there was nothing to leak. And well, the crisis was averted. However, NordVPN has been a popular player for a long time now, and for good reason. With over 14 million customers trusting the Panama-based VPN service provider, the company earns its spot as a worthy ExpressVPN alternative.

NordLynx and Double VPN – Best of Both Worlds

One of the biggest reasons Nord caught our eye was its much-improved security. Nord’s own custom protocol NordLynx combines the benefits of the famous WireGuard while ensuring an even higher level of privacy. The result is a browsing experience protected by military-grade encryption and absolute secrecy. Want even more? Turn on Double VPN and have it encrypt your data a second time in the same session. The company has also won the 2019 ProPrivacy Award.

PROS:

  • custom NordLynx protocolMilitary Grade EncryptionEasy to download applications and browser extensionsInformative website and blog

CONS:

Platforms – Windows/ macOS/ iOS/ Android/ Chrome/ LinuxTrial – 30-day free trial with 100% money-back guaranteePrice – $59 yearlyServers – 5263 Servers in 60 CountriesSimultaneous Devices – 6Check Out NordVPN

Over 30 million downloads and still trending, that’s how Private Internet Access has been doing over the past 10+ years. This old dog has been in the VPN game since 2010 and was acquired by Kape Technologies in 2019.

Access to Over 30,000 Servers

Besides servers, you get several other features like P2P support, ads, trackers and malware tracking, and multiple VPN gateways. While PIA only offers OpenVPN as a protocol, it does offer strong AES-256 bit encryption and even gives users the option to opt for WireGuard for that added level of security. And to add a cherry to the cake, PIA has proven in court that it keeps no logs.

PROS:

Platforms – Windows/ macOS/ iOS/ Android/ Chrome/ LinuxTrial – 7 day trial with 100% money-back guaranteePrice – $29.00 yearlyServers – 30,000+ in 78 countriesSimultaneous Devices – 10Check Out Private Internet Access

4. CyberGhost VPN

Working within the same league as PIA, CyberGhost VPN is another contender you can consider using over ExpressVPN. CyberGhost VPN is owned by Kape Technologies, the same company that owns PIA. Launched back in 2011, this VPN service is trusted by many with strong ratings across the board. The company’s Trustpilot page holds a 4.8 ‘Excellent’ rating given by 12,000+ users. While that is only one of the factors, this VPN stands out for many other reasons.

With its 10+ years of experience, the company has compiled a long list of security features that make the browsing experience safe. The VPN uses 256-bit encryption combined with protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2 to bolster security. Combined with its No-Logs Policy, it makes for a secure experience.

The price for the two-year bundle is modest and will save you a lot of money in the long run. If you’re still unsure, here is some additional good news for you. CyberGhost offers a free trial without the use of a credit card. Furthermore, if you end up buying, you will be protected by a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Platforms – Windows/ macOS / iOS/ Android/ Chrome/ LinuxTrial – Yes, no credit card is requiredPrice – $58.50 for two yearsServers – 7100+ servers in 91 countriesSimultaneous Devices – 7Check Out CyberGhost

ProtonVPN remains a solid choice one can make over ExpressVPN for a lag-free and high-speed experience. While being one of the most used VPNs, it is also one of the most vocal against big tech companies like Google.

Swiss Shield

Get the Plus Tier for the Best Experience

Platforms – Windows/ macOS/ iOS/ Android/ Chrome/ LinuxTrial – Free version with limited featuresPrice – $96 yearly subscription (Plus Tier)Servers – 1318 servers in 55 countriesSimultaneous Devices – 10Check Out ProtonVPN

6. Mullvad VPN

This Swedish VPN has won over the hearts of many Reddit users and remains a solid and trustworthy ExpressVPN alternative. Mullvad VPN takes privacy to a whole new level with its stringent measures, and it shows. While almost every VPN requires users to feed their email ids or mobile numbers, Mullvad VPN needs nothing like that. This VPN service generates a unique account number, and that’s the only thing you will need to connect. This way, no personal information is collected.

Safe Jursidction and External Audits

Mullvad VPN believes in making privacy affordable to everyone. Hence, it has kept its prices at the same rate as its launch. With a monthly plan starting at just €5/ month, users can either go from month to month or top up a year plan. Your monthly prices won’t increase even if you use this VPN for a decade. While the company offers no trial, it claims that’s because it doesn’t want to operate in a way where you are compromised.

Platforms – Windows/ macOS/ iOS/ Android/ LinuxTrial – NoPrice – €60 yearly subscriptionServers – 761 servers in 38 countriesSimultaneous Devices – 5 Check Out Mullvad VPN

7. IPVanish

Long been regarded as one of the best VPNs and a great ExpressVPN alternative, IP Vanish is another pick we can easily recommend. This VPN service is based out of the United States. While that is not the best place for a VPN service headquarters, IPVanish combats that by having a strict no-logs policy combined with advanced encryption. Therefore, in the worst scenario, the company won’t have any data to share even when requested by the government.

No Device Limit

No matter which plans you go for, IPVanish offers 24/7 live chat and phone supported coupled with user-friendly apps. All you need to do is get a subscription and download the apps relevant to your platform. Users who are unsure about paying can try out the yearly plan free for the first 30 days with a promise of their money back. Go on and see if IPVanish makes for a worthy ExpressVPN alternative.

Platforms – Windows/ macOS/ iOS/ Android/ LinuxTrial – Yes, but on the yearly planPrice – $89.99 yearly (VPN Only)Servers – 1900 servers in 75 locationsSimultaneous Devices – UnlimitedCheck Out IPVanish

Ending the list with an ExpressVPN alternative that is perfect for beginners, TunnelBear is a simple and easy-to-use VPN service. Much like Surfshark, TunnelBear also has an attractive and disarming design that is easy to familiarize yourself with. The company uses the same design structure across all its apps and even the browser extension.

Independent Audits and No-Logs

PROS:

  • Easy to use Affordable plansIndepedent audits and no-logs policyAES 256-bit encryption

Platforms – Windows/ macOS/ iOS/ AndroidTrial – Free 500MB PlanPrice – $59.88 yearlyServers – 2600 servers in 41 countriesSimultaneous Devices – 5Check Out TunnelBear