Private Internet Access vs ExpressVPN
Private Internet Access leads ExpressVPN by 0.3 points overall (8.3 vs 8.0).
8.3/10, Very good
8.0/10, Very good
Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
Private Internet Access8.0
Independent no-logs audit and transparency reports, though based in the US.
Privacy & audits
30% weight
ExpressVPN8.5
Has published multiple third-party audits of its apps, servers and policy.
Private Internet Access8.0
WireGuard, kill switch and granular encryption settings.
Security features
20% weight
ExpressVPN8.5
Lightway protocol, kill switch and RAM-only server design.
Private Internet Access8.5
Low long-term pricing with unlimited devices.
Value for money
20% weight
ExpressVPN6.5
Historically one of the pricier options, though the newer tiers narrow the gap.
Private Internet Access7.5
Open-source apps on all platforms; many settings can feel technical.
Apps & ease of use
15% weight
ExpressVPN9.0
Clean apps on all major platforms plus router firmware.
Private Internet Access9.5
Unlimited simultaneous connections.
Devices & flexibility
15% weight
ExpressVPN7.0
Device allowance depends on the tier, so check the plan before buying.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | Private Internet Access | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | No |
| Money-back window | 30 days | 30 days |
| Simultaneous devices | Unlimited | Not published |
| Independent audit published | Yes | Yes |
| Company jurisdiction | United States | British Virgin Islands |
| Main platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, routers |
Verdict
Which should you pick?
Choose Private Internet Access if…
You want something best for tinkerers who want fine control over settings.
- + Unlimited simultaneous devices
- + Open-source apps
- + Highly configurable
Choose ExpressVPN if…
You want something best for people who value very simple, polished apps.
- + Very easy-to-use apps
- + Own Lightway protocol
- + Router app support
Checked 1 Nov 2026.
Questions
Private Internet Access vs ExpressVPN: quick answers
Is Private Internet Access better than ExpressVPN?
Private Internet Access leads ExpressVPN by 0.3 points overall (8.3 vs 8.0). Private Internet Access scores higher on value for money, devices & flexibility. ExpressVPN scores higher on privacy & audits, security features, apps & ease of use.
Who should choose ExpressVPN over Private Internet Access?
ExpressVPN is best for people who value very simple, polished apps. Private Internet Access is best for tinkerers who want fine control over settings.
How were Private Internet Access and ExpressVPN scored?
Both were scored on the same 5 weighted criteria for VPN services, using public information such as published plans and terms. We do not lab-test products.