ExpressVPN Review 2026: The VPN That’s Still Got It

TL;DR: ExpressVPN remains one of the most reliable VPNs in 2026, offering strong privacy protections, a sleek interface, and impressive speeds. While it’s not the absolute cheapest option, its new tiered pricing and bonus privacy tools make it a compelling choice for everyday users.

The Big Question: Is ExpressVPN Still Worth It in 2026?

When I first reviewed ExpressVPN back in 2023, I was impressed with its strong privacy practices and stylish app, but took issue with its expensive subscriptions and ownership. Fast forward to 2026, and ExpressVPN has undergone some major changes that have me rethinking my stance.

What’s New with ExpressVPN?

Since my last review, ExpressVPN has:

• Expanded its global server network significantly
• Overhauled its desktop apps with a fresh new look
• Added the innovative ShuffleIP feature that changes your IP address with every website visit
• Reworked its plans with new tiers and more simultaneous connections
• Added new non-VPN privacy tools to most plans at no extra cost

Pricing: Better Value Than Ever

ExpressVPN now offers three tiers:

Basic Plan ($3.49-$12.99/month)

• 10 simultaneous connections
• Built-in speed test
• Ad blocker
• Malicious site blocker
• Limited access to ExpressMailGuard and ExpressAI

Advanced Plan ($4.49-$13.99/month)

• Everything in Basic, plus:
• 2 extra simultaneous connections
• Tracker blocker
• Adult site blocker
• eSIM with 3 days of unlimited data
• More access to privacy tools
• Full access to ExpressKeys and Identity Defender

Pro Plan ($7.49-$19.99/month)

• Everything in Advanced, plus:
• 14 simultaneous connections
• Dedicated IP address
• eSIM with 5 days of unlimited data
• Full access to all privacy tools

The Advanced plan is the sweet spot for most users, offering significantly more features for just $1 more per month.

Trustworthiness: The Elephant in the Room

ExpressVPN maintains a strong privacy policy that’s been independently audited multiple times. The company doesn’t log browsing history, DNS queries, or traffic connection logs. This has been verified through:

• Regular third-party audits (nearly 20 since 2022)
• Biannual transparency reports
• A real-world test when Turkish authorities seized a server in 2017 and found nothing

However, ExpressVPN is owned by Kape Technologies, which has a controversial history. Kape was previously known as Crossrider, a platform that some developers allegedly used for adware injection. While Kape maintains it wasn’t directly involved in adware distribution, this history gives some privacy-conscious users pause.

My Hands-On Experience

I tested ExpressVPN on macOS for over a week and was consistently impressed:

Speed: Minimal impact on my internet connection. A server in the UK was only 11% slower than my regular connection.

Reliability: Passed multiple DNS leak tests. Only encountered one access issue with Archive.today.

App Design: The Corporate Memphis-style interface is clean, intuitive, and easy to navigate. The “Smart Location” feature automatically connects you to the fastest nearby server.

Features: Includes a kill switch, split tunneling, and the innovative ShuffleIP feature. However, it lacks multi-hop connections, which are available on competitors like ProtonVPN and NordVPN.

Server Network: Not the Biggest, But Well-Distributed

ExpressVPN offers 3,000+ servers across 108 countries. While smaller than some competitors, it has servers in all 50 US states, making it excellent for travelers and those needing to access region-locked content.

Streaming Performance

ExpressVPN successfully unblocked ITVX, BBC iPlayer, and Netflix UK while connected to a London server.

The Bottom Line

ExpressVPN remains one of the most reliable VPNs on the market in 2026. Its strong privacy practices, sleek interface, and minimal speed impact make it an excellent choice for everyday users. The new tiered pricing and bonus privacy tools add significant value.

Who should choose ExpressVPN?

• Casual users who want reliable privacy protection
• Frequent travelers who need US servers in all states
• Users who value a clean, intuitive interface
• Those who want bonus privacy tools beyond just VPN protection

Who might want to look elsewhere?

• Power users who need advanced features like multi-hop connections
• Privacy extremists concerned about Kape’s ownership
• Budget-conscious users who prioritize the absolute lowest price

While ProtonVPN remains my personal favorite for its larger network and advanced features, ExpressVPN is a close second and a solid choice for most users.

Tags: #ExpressVPN #VPN #Privacy #Cybersecurity #Streaming #TechReview #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSecurity #VPNReview #InternetPrivacy

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