ExpressVPN Pricing: How Much Does It Cost in 2024?

ExpressVPN is largely regarded as the best VPN service on the market. It’s a great all-around VPN with fast connection speeds, a global server fleet, and many security features. ExpressVPN’s pricing may be its only downside. But is it that expensive? Most importantly, is ExpressVPN worth the money?

This article will provide a detailed overview of ExpressVPN pricing, from its subscription plans to its free trial. I’ll also mention how to cancel your subscription and get a refund.

Short on time? Here’s my verdict: ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable, secure, and trustworthy VPN services, worth every cent. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it out with no strings attached and judge for yourself.

ExpressVPN Pricing Breakdown

ExpressVPN pricing options are straightforward. With only three subscription plans, you won’t get overwhelmed by the variety of choices.

• 1 month: $12.95.
• 6 months: $9.99 monthly, billed $59.95 for the first six months and $69.95 afterward.
• 1 year (+3 months): $6.67 monthly, billed $99.95.

The yearly subscription offers the biggest savings, which the ExpressVPN website kindly reminds you of if you pick a different option. The monthly plan is the priciest, which is typical, as all VPN providers strive to retain customers longer.

Unlike many competitors, ExpressVPN doesn’t offer long-term subscriptions for over a year. This is a pity because it would provide even better savings, but it also means you don’t have to commit to such a long time.

Long-term ExpressVPN subscriptions increase in cost after the initial period. While that’s unfortunate, it’s a common practice among software providers. ExpressVPN doesn’t try to trick customers. The price change information is clearly stated under the Order Total, although the font could have been larger.

Overall, ExpressVPN tends to fall in the upper price range, even given the generous discount on the yearly subscription. However, ExpressVPN is not the most expensive service you’ll see later than other popular providers.

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ExpressVPN Add-Ons

ExpressVPN is a VPN app with several handy add-ons to enhance security. Often, VPN services offer add-ons at an extra cost, so you end up paying more than planned. ExpressVPN’s case differs, as all the extras are included in the subscription price.

With any ExpressVPN plan, you get four extra security features: a Password Manager, a Threat Manager, an Ad Blocker, and Parental Controls. Let’s examine each one.

Password Manager

ExpressVPN’s Password Manager is an encrypted storage for passwords, credit card details, and notes that works on any device. There’s no limit on how many passwords you can keep. Only you can access your data—not even ExpressVPN knows your primary password.

The add-on has a built-in random password generator, so complex passwords are unnecessary. The app also offers an auto-fill function, so you can automatically sign in to apps and websites. ExpressVPN’s Password Manager can generate two-factor authentication codes for compatible apps and websites.

What’s more, the Password Manager alerts you of any exposed passwords. As soon as your data gets leaked, you will know so you can change the passwords to mitigate the risk.

The add-on is built right into ExpressVPN apps for Android and iOS. To use it on a PC, download the ExpressVPN browser extension for Chrome, which is compatible with Edge, Opera, Brave, and Vivaldi browsers.

Threat Manager

Apps and websites may share your information with third parties. Most of these parties are harmless, using your data for personalized advertising or service improvement. However, some may engage in malicious behavior without your consent.

ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager prevents unauthorized da1ta sharing. Although many popular web browsers already have similar features, this doesn’t apply to every browser or app.

Here’s how the feature works. Threat Manager maintains a regularly updated blocklist of trackers and malicious websites. When you attempt to access a site with trackers or malicious, it automatically blocks your device from communicating with its servers.

Threat Manager works on iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, Linux, and the ExpressVPN Aircove router, which we’ll discuss later. You’ll have to set up the add-on manually.

Ad Blocker

Pop-up ads and flashy banners are intrusive. ExpressVPN’s Ad Blocker prevents these from loading, speeds up browsing, preserves data, and provides a more pleasant experience.

Furthermore, browser ads may carry malware or links to phishing websites. Ad Blocker ensures you don’t fall for a scam or accidentally download a virus, as you won’t be exposed to the ads in the first place.

The Ad Blocker is available on macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and the ExpressVPN Aircove router. Note that your VPN must be turned on for the ad blocker, except for the Aircove router, to work.

ExpressVPN announced the feature would be available on Linux by the end of 2023, but it appears to be delayed. Let’s hope it has already been rolled out on all systems when you read this.

Parental Controls

Parental Controls is ExpressVPN’s latest add-on. It lets you block adult websites on your children’s devices. When you enable the add-on, websites on your blocklist will not load.

ExpressVPN maintains its list of age-restricted websites, but you can manage it yourself, removing or adding items as you please.

The feature only works with ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway tunneling protocol. It’s available on macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and the Aircove router. Like with the Ad Blocker, the Linux version of Parental Controls is in the works.

Aircove Router

Apart from free security add-ons, ExpressVPN offers the Aircove router. Priced around $180 depending on the store, it’s the first VPN router on the market and still has no alternatives. The router features Wi-Fi 6, built-in parental controls, and advanced security features.

The Aircove router is highly customizable and intuitive. For example, you can sort your devices into groups, each with its VPN location and settings.

It’s worth noting that ExpressVPN also works with various other router models.

ExpressVPN Features

ExpressVPN consistently ranks as our #1 VPN due to its advanced security features, fast connection speeds, large server fleet, and user-friendly apps. Let’s look at some of its most prominent features.

• ExpressVPN features AES 256-bit encryption, which has long been the industry standard trusted even by the military. In addition to the standard set of tunneling protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP, ExpressVPN offers its proprietary protocol, Lightway. Developed on WireGuard’s backbone, it delivers fast speeds while consuming less battery power. 

• ExpressVPN has a Network Lock (kill switch) feature that disables your internet connection if the VPN protection drops. This prevents data leaks and ensures your device is protected at all times. 
• Split tunneling allows you to route some app traffic through a VPN tunnel while other apps remain connected to the internet directly. This feature is handy for accessing local and foreign services simultaneously, saving bandwidth, maintaining normal speeds on certain services, or accessing LAN devices. 
• ExpressVPN runs its own private Domain Name System (DNS) on every server. Most providers use public DNS services, which may be run by content delivery networks, advertisers, or internet service providers. Public DNS services may collect and sell user data, which defies the purpose of using a VPN. With private DNS, your requests aren’t exposed to any third parties. They are handed directly to ExpressVPN in an encrypted state. 

• ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy. The provider doesn’t collect or store your personally identifiable information, browsing history, downloads, or other sensitive data. The privacy policy regularly undergoes an independent audit by KPMG, which proves all the provider’s claims. 
• With thousands of server locations across 105 countries, ExpressVPN boasts one of the largest server networks among the VPNs we’ve tested. Over 80% of the server fleet has been already upgraded from 1 Gbps to 10 Gbps speeds. 

• ExpressVPN runs RAM-only servers, where all data gets wiped after reboot. This further minimizes data leak risk. Even if a third party seizes a server, they won’t access user data. 
• ExpressVPN has proven itself to be one of the fastest VPNs around. It achieves excellent speeds through a combination of RAM-only 10-Gbps servers and sophisticated tunneling protocols, particularly the Lightway protocol. Because servers are available nearly anywhere worldwide, choosing a nearby server can get minimum latency.
• The ExpressVPN app runs on iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux. You can also install ExpressVPN on your router to protect your network, including gaming consoles, smart home devices, and TVs. Browser extensions are available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi. 

• Until 2023, ExpressVPN only allowed five simultaneous connections. Now, you can connect eight devices at once. Note that all devices connected to your VPN router count as one. 
• When we tested ExpressVPN, it unblocked Netflix, HBO MAX, Amazon Prime Video, and other streaming platforms without issues. ExpressVPN also works in China, although you might have to try different servers to establish a reliable connection.
• ExpressVPN has no data or bandwidth caps.
• The mobile and desktop VPN apps are easy to navigate, even if you’re a first-time user.
• If you need help, customer support is available 24/7 via email or live chat. 

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What’s Included in a Subscription?

An ExpressVPN subscription includes all the above-mentioned security features and add-ons (the Aircove router is sold separately). Plans do not differ in features. They only differ in price and duration. 

In other words, every plan will get you:

• A powerful VPN offering a stellar experience
• Password Manager
• Threat Manager
• Ad Blocker
• Parental Controls

The Best ExpressVPN Plan

The yearly plan is the best option cost-wise. You get the same features for much cheaper. However, the substantial upfront cost and long-term commitment may be considered drawbacks of the yearly plan.

The six-month plan is also a reasonable choice, as it offers a 23% discount and doesn’t require a year-long contract extension.

Subscribing to the monthly plan is the least cost-effective. ExpressVPN has a money-back guarantee so you can try out any plan risk-free. If you purchase a long-term plan and aren’t satisfied, you get the money back. If you like the app, you keep it at a better price. Trying a longer-term plan is a win-win.

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ExpressVPN vs. Competitor Pricing

Choosing a VPN is about finding the optimal value for your money. While ExpressVPN is an excellent app, considering the competition is always smart.

ExpressVPN’s main competitors are CyberGhost, Private Internet Access (PIA), and NordVPN. These VPN providers have top-notch security, global server fleets, zero-log policies, and fast speeds. Moreover, each VPN service has unique advantages, such as unlimited device connections or features like Dark Web Monitor.

Now, let’s see how ExpressVPN compares to other providers regarding pricing.

CyberGhost pricing plans:

• 1 month: $12.99.
• 6 months: $6.99 monthly, billed $41.94 every six months.
• 2 years: $2.03 per month (plus 4 additional months of free service), billed $56.94 for the first two years and yearly afterward.

PIA pricing plans:

• 1 month: $11.99.
• 6 months: $7.50 per month, billed $45.00.
• 2 years: $2.19 monthly, billed $56.94 (currently with two months of free service).

NordVPN pricing plans (Basic plan):

• 1 month: $12.99.
• 1 year: $4.99 monthly, billed $59.88.
• 2 years: $3.39 monthly, billed $81.36.

PIA’s two-year subscription is the most cost-effective option, but not everyone wants to commit to it for such a long time.

CyberGhost’s and NordVPN’s monthly plan prices are aligned with ExpressVPN’s, but the long-term plans are notably cheaper. That said, ExpressVPN’s plans include top-of-the-line features and complimentary add-ons, making ExpressVPN the obvious choice on a monthly or even long-term basis.

Most providers offer add-ons like a password manager, threat monitoring, an ad blocker, and parental controls for an extra cost. So, to get these features on other VPNs, your final subscription price might be significantly higher. For example, even at only $1 monthly each, these features may add 30% or more to the final monthly cost of another VPN.

ExpressVPN Free Trial

ExpressVPN offers a week-long free trial only on mobile. The provider’s website doesn’t advertise this option but promotes its money-back guarantee.

I only found out about the trial when I searched for the ExpressVPN app directly in the Google Play Store rather than going to the official website. Apple users can also get the opportunity via the App Store.

Here’s how to get the ExpressVPN trial in three simple steps:

1. Install ExpressVPN from your mobile device’s app store.

2. Open the app and tap on Start Free Trial.

3. Pick the 12-month plan and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. The monthly plan doesn’t provide a trial.

ExpressVPN’s trial has no functionality limitations. You can connect to any server, enjoy high speeds, and try the add-ons without paying a dime. However, you’ll have to enter your card details, so don’t forget to cancel your trial if you decide it’s not the right VPN app for you.

However, if you forget to cancel the trial and your one-year subscription begins, you can still get your money back within 30 days, as explained below.

Money-Back Guarantee

ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans and devices. That’s enough time to test the app’s features and decide whether you like it.

You can get a refund without explaining why or dealing with back-and-forth emails. Most VPN providers try to change your mind, but ExpressVPN respects your decision. Customer support might ask you for a reason, but they won’t argue.

Contact ExpressVPN customer support via email or live chat to claim a refund. Include the email address you used to register and wait for approval. Refers typically take 5–7 days to arrive, depending on your payment method, but some users get theirs even sooner.

Referral Program

ExpressVPN has a referral program that lets you earn 30 days of free service. Here’s how it works:

1. Refer your friend via your ExpressVPN account (you must send them a referral link).
2. Wait for your friend to sign up for any of ExpressVPN plans.
3. Get 30 days of service for free (both you and your friend!).

There’s no limit on how many friends you can refer. The free days are added automatically at the end of the billing cycle, and you can see them on your ExpressVPN dashboard. Free days will be reflected in your account within 24 hours.

ExpressVPN Payment Options

ExpressVPN supports numerous payment options, including:

• Debit and credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, JCB, Diners Club International).
• PayPal.
• Bitcoin via BitPay.
• Others (Union Pay, iDeal, QiWi, Sofort, Giro Pay, Sepa, and more).

All payment gateways are secure, so you don’t put your data at risk.

How to Cancel ExpressVPN Subscription

Your ExpressVPN subscription will renew automatically until you cancel it, except for Bitcoin payments, which won’t renew. You can cancel your subscription through the ExpressVPN website or your app store.

If you purchased ExpressVPN via the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, you can cancel your subscription through that app store. You can cancel via the website if you paid with a credit card or PayPal.

Keep in mind that canceling your subscription doesn’t initiate a refund. You’ll have to contact ExpressVPN’s customer support unless you subscribe via an app store, in which case the refund needs to be initiated through the app store.

Please read our complete guide on canceling ExpressVPN and getting a refund.

Summary

ExpressVPN isn’t cheap, but it’s 100% worth the cost. It’s secure, reliable, and fast, repeatedly showing up in top positions in our tests. Plus, a yearly plan allows you to save heavily. Thanks to the money-back guarantee, the best thing is that you can test ExpressVPN without risks.

If you’re not sold on ExpressVPN, I recommend you still go for a premium alternative. While using software without spending a dime might be tempting, free VPN companies might collect your data, offer limited functionality, or engage in unlawful activities. ExpressVPN and other premium VPNs are transparent about their business practices and value their customers.

Though other premium VPNs may not offer quite the same level of service, options like PIA and CyberGhost are more affordable and are excellent choices for many.

Frequently Asked Questions

Topic: VPN Pricing