ExpressVPN is a Rip-off for Most Users, But Here's Who Should Actually Buy It
A deep dive into ExpressVPN.
Let's cut the crap: ExpressVPN is the Apple of VPNs—overpriced, slick, and often not worth the premium unless you're in a very specific niche. I've tested every major player, and while ExpressVPN isn't trash, it's a beast that's been outpaced by cheaper, faster options. I almost lost a client call because their iOS app decided to randomly disconnect during a sensitive Zoom meeting, forcing me to scramble. That's the kind of "premium" reliability you're paying for.
The Meat: Where ExpressVPN Actually Matters
First, the kill switch. ExpressVPN's is rock-solid—it's saved my ass when my Wi-Fi dropped in a sketchy airport. But NordVPN's is just as good and costs half as much. Second, server speed: ExpressVPN is fast, but Surfshark and ProtonVPN often beat it in raw throughput tests I've run. Where ExpressVPN kills it is in countries with heavy censorship, like China or Iran. Their obfuscated servers work when others fail, but how often are you really there?
💡 Pro Tip: If you're on a budget, skip ExpressVPN and get Surfshark. It's cheaper, supports unlimited devices, and the speed difference is negligible for streaming or browsing. Only pay for ExpressVPN if you travel to restrictive regions regularly.
The Data: Raw Comparison
| Feature | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark | ProtonVPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Monthly) | $12.95 | $12.99 | $12.95 | $9.99 |
| Annual Plan Cost | $99.95 | $59.88 | $47.88 | $71.88 |
| Max Devices | 8 | 10 | Unlimited | 10 |
| RAM Usage (Avg) | 150-200MB | 120-180MB | 100-150MB | 200-250MB |
| Kill Switch | Yes (Reliable) | Yes (Reliable) | Yes (Good) | Yes (Basic) |
| Obfuscated Servers | Yes (Best) | Yes (Good) | No | Yes (Good) |
The Verdict: Stop Wasting Money
Buy ExpressVPN if you're a journalist or frequent traveler to high-censorship countries and need that obfuscation tech. Otherwise, avoid it—it's a rip-off for casual users. NordVPN offers similar security at a lower price, and Surfshark is the budget killer with unlimited devices. For most people, saving $50 a year on a VPN that does 95% of the job is the smart move.
