Proton VPN vs ExpressVPN
Proton VPN leads ExpressVPN by 0.7 points overall (8.7 vs 8.0).
8.7/10, Excellent
8.0/10, Very good
Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
Proton VPN9.5
Four independent no-logs audits, open-source apps and Swiss jurisdiction.
Privacy & audits
30% weight
ExpressVPN8.5
Has published multiple third-party audits of its apps, servers and policy.
Proton VPN9.0
Secure Core multi-hop, WireGuard, kill switch and NetShield blocking.
Security features
20% weight
ExpressVPN8.5
Lightway protocol, kill switch and RAM-only server design.
Proton VPN8.0
Unlimited-data free tier; paid plans are mid-priced.
Value for money
20% weight
ExpressVPN6.5
Historically one of the pricier options, though the newer tiers narrow the gap.
Proton VPN8.5
Open-source apps on all major platforms, including Linux.
Apps & ease of use
15% weight
ExpressVPN9.0
Clean apps on all major platforms plus router firmware.
Proton VPN7.5
Ten devices on paid plans, but only one on the free tier.
Devices & flexibility
15% weight
ExpressVPN7.0
Device allowance depends on the tier, so check the plan before buying.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | Proton VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Money-back window | 30 days | 30 days |
| Simultaneous devices | 10 on paid plans; 1 on free | Not published |
| Independent audit published | Yes | Yes |
| Company jurisdiction | Switzerland | British Virgin Islands |
| Main platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, routers |
Verdict
Which should you pick?
Choose Proton VPN if…
You want something best for privacy-minded users who want a trustworthy free tier.
- + Free tier with no data cap
- + Four independent no-logs audits
- + Open-source apps
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
Proton VPN vs ExpressVPN: quick answers
Is Proton VPN better than ExpressVPN?
Proton VPN leads ExpressVPN by 0.7 points overall (8.7 vs 8.0). Proton VPN scores higher on privacy & audits, security features, value for money, devices & flexibility. ExpressVPN scores higher on apps & ease of use.
Who should choose ExpressVPN over Proton VPN?
ExpressVPN is best for people who value very simple, polished apps. Proton VPN is best for privacy-minded users who want a trustworthy free tier.
How were Proton VPN 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.