ExpressVPN Review India (2025) – Is It the Right Choice In India?

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ExpressVPN Review Overview

Rating	4.2 out of 5 ⭐️
Speeds	Download speed: 189Mbps Upload speed: 111Mbps
No Log	Yes
Audit	April 2024 by Nettitude
Streaming	Netflix, Zee5, Amazon Prime Video, JioCinema, Hotstar, BBC, Hulu
Servers	3000+ servers across 105 nations
Devices	Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android
Pricing	$4.99 per month (2-year plan)
Coupon Code	Get ExpressVPN 4 extra months FREE 🔥

About ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN, a top VPN service, was founded in 2009 by tech entrepreneurs Peter Burchhardt and Dan Pomerantz. Its headquarters is in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly nation. 

Concerned about data monitoring and manipulation by corporations, governments, and hackers, Burchhardt and Pomerantz launched ExpressVPN to provide users with secure and unrestricted internet access. 

Acquired by Kape Technologies in September 2021, the company currently offers secure internet access to over 4 million users in 180 countries. It covers a vast server network in 105 locations and offers its platform in nearly 17 languages.

ExpressVPN Speeds

Well, connecting to a VPN can slow down internet speeds. However, paid VPNs typically experience smaller speed drops compared to free options.  Curious why a VPN causes a slowdown? Check out our guide to VPNs for a comprehensive explanation!

To illustrate the impact on speed, I tested ExpressVPN’s speed using the reliable speedtest.net website in two locations: India (my home country) and the USA (a distant server).

My baseline internet speed is 240 Mbps download and upload, with a ping of 7 ms. While ExpressVPN offered consistent speeds in my testing, it wasn’t the absolute fastest compared to NordVPN or Surfshark.

Speed in India

Download speed remained consistent at 189Mbps (21.25% drop), while upload speed dropped to 111Mbps (53.75% drop). Ping increased to 114ms.

Speed in the US

Next, I tested with the USA server. Download speed dropped slightly to 189Mbps (21.25% drop). Similar to India, the upload speed decreased to 114Mbps (52.05% drop). Ping jumped to 301ms.

Location	Download Speed (Mbps)	Upload Speed (Mbps)	Ping (ms)
India (Base Speed)	240	240	7
India Server (ExpressVPN)	189	111	114
USA Server (ExpressVPN)	189	114	301

Compared to other VPNs, it stands out in:

• NordVPN: ExpressVPN offers a better upload speed than NordVPN on both Indian (69Mbps vs 111Mbps) and USA servers (24Mbps vs 114Mbps).
• Surfshark: On US servers, ExpressVPN shows a marginal performance advantage over Surfshark (Download: 182Mbps, Upload: 85Mbps). Its upload and download speeds were impressive.

Overall, ExpressVPN delivers good speed. Especially, its upload speed is better than Surfshark and NordVPN.

ExpressVPN Servers

Servers Locations

ExpressVPN has a large network with 3000+ servers in over 105 countries. This means you can connect to many places, including popular ones like the US, Singapore, and Canada. They even have servers in more unusual places like Algeria and Cuba.

However, in India, they use virtual servers routed through other countries like the UK or Singapore to adhere to local laws in India.

Compared to competitors like NordVPN (67 countries) and Surfshark (65 countries), ExpressVPN offers a wider reach. This allows users to connect to a server closer to them, potentially improving connection speeds.

RAM Servers 

ExpressVPN’s servers run entirely on Random Access Memory (RAM), a volatile memory that automatically wipes clean upon disconnection. This eliminates the risk of data persistence on physical storage drives. 

Obfuscated Servers

If you’re stuck in a country with internet censorship (think China, Iran, or Russia), ExpressVPN has your back. These servers disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, allowing users to bypass censorship and access the internet freely and securely.

Dynamic or Static IP Address

Upon connecting to ExpressVPN servers, you are assigned a shared or dynamic IP address (via ExpressVPN’s ShuffleIP feature). Premium VPNs route customer IP addresses to make it difficult to trace the original digital identity. 

ExpressVPN also offers dedicated IP services. With this, you’ll be assigned a fixed IP address for a specific VPN location. This feature allows for fewer interruptions and secure remote access. 

Dedicated IPs require an additional fee (starting $3.42/month). These are available for select locations, including the USA, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, etc. You can check on their app or the Dedicated IP page.

ExpressVPN Streaming Performances

Streaming Platform	Yes/No
Netflix	Yes ✅
Hotstar	Yes ✅
JioCinema	Yes ✅
SonyLiv	Yes ✅
Zee5	Yes ✅
Amazon Prime US	Yes ✅

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs I’ve used for streaming purposes over the past few years. It works with almost all streaming platforms in India and abroad.

In India, ExpressVPN easily unlocks popular services like SonyLiv, Zee5, Amazon Prime Video, JioCinema, and Hotstar. It also works with international streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+.

I have experienced no lagging or buffering issues while connected to this VPN. It lets you enjoy high-definition content without compromising your privacy.

Privacy

Privacy Policy

ExpressVPN boasts a strong privacy policy.They collect only the minimum data necessary, and everything is clearly explained on their website. This includes:

• Connection Date: Used for troubleshooting technical issues.
• Connection Location (not server IP): Helps provide better support.
• Email Address: Required for account activation
• Payment Information (if applicable): Only collected if you use a credit card. Consider using Bitcoin for anonymous purchases.

No-log Policy

ExpressVPN claims a strict no-log policy, meaning they don’t collect, store, or record user activity data on hard drives. Their apps and services eliminate sensitive information. 

Security Audits

To ensure transparency, independent security firms regularly audit their practices. As of November 2024, ExpressVPN has undergone over 20 audits. 

Here are some key examples:

• Nettitude Audit (April 2024): Nettitude, a third-party cybersecurity firm, conducted a penetration test of the ExpressVPN Windows app. The review confirmed a robust security level.
• KPMG Audit (December 2023): KPMG LLP performed an independent audit of ExpressVPN’s privacy policy and tested ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer services. The audit provided reasonable assurance of ExpressVPN’s privacy architecture, and no issues were found.
• Cure53 and KPMG Audit (September 2022): To build trust and transparency, ExpressVPN invited two reputable security firms, KPMG and Cure53, to review their no-logs policy. Both organizations confirmed no sensitive information collection or storage by the VPN provider.

In addition to these audits, ExpressVPN continuously conducts audits of its various services. For example, audits were conducted for Aircove Routers in November 2023, the Lightway protocol in October 2023, and the browser extension in June 2023, among others.

ExpressVPN Headquarter

The location of a VPN headquarters is important because they must comply with local laws. ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, which has no data retention laws.

This allows them to follow a true no-log policy and offer complete user anonymity. The British Virgin Islands are outside the 14 Eyes Alliance, a group of countries known for data sharing.

Privacy Comparison

NordVPN: NordVPN’s no-logs policies have been audited four times by independent firms. They also publish transparency reports to keep users informed about data protection practices. While ExpressVPN conducted multiple audits in 2024, these were not reviewed by Big Four security firms like PwC or Deloitte. 

Surfshark: ExpressVPN has conducted multiple audits of its services through 2024. Surfshark’s last audit was conducted in 2023. Unlike ExpressVPN, Surfshark has not undergone any reviews in recent years. 

ExpressVPN History

ExpressVPN has maintained a clean past in terms of data breaches. It has been involved in a few legal cases. 

For example, in December 2017, ExpressVPN first faced scrutiny during the investigation into the assassination of Russia’s ambassador to Turkey, Andrei Karlov. Turkish authorities seized an ExpressVPN server but found no usable logs, ultimately confirming the company’s adherence to a no-log policy.

Again, in September 2021, their then-CIO (Chief Information Officer) was penalized for his alleged involvement in “Project Raven”. This project aided the UAE in spying on and hacking its political opponents, journalists, and human rights activists, including some in the US.

Recently, in February 2024, CNET reported a DNS leak issue affecting approximately 1% of ExpressVPN users. The company acknowledged the issue and removed the split tunneling feature in version 12.73.0 of its Windows app. This feature was restored in version 12.74.0.

ExpressVPN Security

Security Protocols 

ExpressVPN takes things a step further with its proprietary Lightway protocol. When you connect to their VPN, they automatically choose the best option, but you can also select it manually. Here’s a breakdown of the protocols:

• Lightway protocol (ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol): Known for its speed, reliability, and enhanced security for browsing activities. It uses the well-established wolfSSL cryptography library. Lightway comes in two categories: Lightway UDP and Lightway TCP. This protocol boasts faster speeds, lower battery consumption, and easier auditing and maintenance.
• OpenVPN protocol: Similar to other premium VPNs, ExpressVPN also offers OpenVPN. This protocol is built for a balance between security and speed. Like Lightway, the UDP version offers better speeds for activities requiring lower bandwidth. Conversely, TCP uses more bandwidth to provide stronger security.

DNS Leak Test

When it comes to security, DNS leaks can be a major concern. While your VPN encrypts your IP address and allows you to browse anonymously, a DNS leak could expose your identity.

Here’s what happens: If a DNS leak occurs, your device sends DNS requests outside the secure tunnel established by your VPN. This means your browsing activity, web searches, IP address, and location could still be visible. 

To check for leaks, I ran a DNS leak test using a reliable website like IPLeak.net. The results are positive! The Ipv4 address matches the server I’m connected to (New Jersey, USA), showing all DNS requests are being handled by ExpressVPN servers.

Since the IPv6 address is unreachable, it’s not a concern in this case. This confirms that there are no leaks or security issues found with any of ExpressVPN’s apps.

Want to learn more about DNS records? Check out this helpful resource: 6 DNS Record Types Explained!

Kill Switch

Many VPNs, including ExpressVPN, offer a kill switch feature to safeguard user data even during unexpected internet disconnections. This feature prevents leaks of your real IP address and location, maintaining your privacy. ExpressVPN calls this feature “Network Lock,” and it’s automatically enabled in the General settings of the Windows app.

Security Comparison with Premium VPNs

In terms of security, ExpressVPN holds its own against other premium VPNs like NordVPN and Surfshark. It uses the Lightway protocol, similar to NordLynx (NordVPN’s default WireGuard protocol). All three perform well in DNS leak tests.

However, ExpressVPN lacks a split tunneling feature in iOS devices, functionality offered by both Surfshark and NordVPN. Split tunneling allows you to choose which applications use the VPN connection and which one’s bypass it.

Pricing

Subscription Duration	Price per month	Total Billing Amount	30-day money-back guarantee	Data Limits for Free eSIMs
1 month	$12.95	$12.95	Yes	1GB
1 year	$6.67	$99.95	Yes	3GB
2 years	$4.99	$139.72	Yes	5GB

Until last year, ExpressVPN offered three pricing tiers: 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year. Their annual plan, priced at $99.95, was the most cost-effective option. However, they’ve since reduced prices for customer convenience.

For even greater savings, consider ExpressVPN’s biannual plan. A 2-year subscription now costs $139.72, bringing the per-month cost down to $4.99 from $12.95. So, you can save roughly 61% compared to the previous monthly price.

Money-Back Guarantee

ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with their speed, security, or ease of use, you can receive a full refund. Furthermore, they provide a 7-day free trial with all plans. The trial period allows you to experience the full range of ExpressVPN services for a week.

Payment Options

ExpressVPN offers a wide range of payment methods for your convenience. You can use credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, etc.) and PayPal. For added privacy, you can pay with Bitcoin or PayPal.

Competitor Pricing

Although ExpressVPN provides excellent service, it is not the most budget-friendly choice. Their lowest price point is $4.99 per month for the two-year plan. In comparison, NordVPN’s Basic two-year plan starts at only $2.91 per month, and Surfshark’s Starter two-year plan is the most affordable, at just $2.09 per month.

Coupon Code

ExpressVPN is currently offering an unbeatable deal. By purchasing through my link, you’ll receive four additional months of free access with a two-year plan. This provides you with a total of 28 months of ExpressVPN subscription for $139.72. The coupon code is auto applied at checkout.

If a two-year plan seems too long, even their annual plan includes three months of free access. You’ll pay $99.95 for 15 months of service. All plans come with a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ExpressVPN Customer Support

Customer Support Facility	ExpressVPN
24/7 Live chat support	✅ Yes
Email	✅ Yes
Phone Line	❌ No
Guidelines or Informative article	✅ Yes
FAQs	✅ Yes

ExpressVPN maintains a strong customer support system. They offer a 24/7 live chat feature where you can connect directly with a human agent, unlike some VPN providers that use bots.

The best part is their dedicated support page on the official website. Here, you’ll find hundreds of FAQs, guides, informative articles, and more. They cover everything from setting up your account to troubleshooting and managing it.

My experience with their live chat support was mostly positive. They typically respond to general inquiries within 10 seconds and provide helpful links for further information. For complex issues, I suggest raising email tickets for further help.

There are a few areas for improvement. Response times for complex queries could be faster. They also don’t answer basic questions directly, like the number of audits performed on their no-log policy or the total number of servers they operate. They attach links which might be confusing sometimes. 

Overall, ExpressVPN offers a vast library of content on its website. While they lack phone support, email support is good. Live chat with human agents is a plus, but improvements can be made in response times and the scope of questions answered.

P2P

No VPN review is complete without checking its performance for torrenting on P2P servers. Right? For those unfamiliar with P2P (peer-to-peer) networks, they are decentralized networks where users directly share files like documents, music, videos, software, and games.

ExpressVPN fully supports P2P file sharing with no data restrictions. This means you can enjoy torrenting with all major P2P applications like qBitTorrent, Transmission, Vuze, Deluge, uTorrent, and more.

I tested ExpressVPN’s torrenting performance. Using uTorrent, I downloaded a 1.86 GB movie with 5.738 seeders. My download speed averaged around 2.6 Mbps, resulting in an estimated completion time of 23 minutes, which is quite impressive.

Additional Features

Excited to know what additional features you’ll get to enjoy paying such high prices? Let’s check them out one by one!

1) Ad Blocker

Do ads annoy you while browsing? Then, turn on ExpressVPN’s ad blocker for a better user experience. It blocks most display ads but doesn’t expect to block everything since it relies on a predefined block list. 

Also, turning it on is easy: go to the “Advanced Protection” menu under Options, tick the ad blocker checkbox, and save the settings. 

2) Threat Manager

Another amazing feature offered by ExpressVPN is Threat Manager. What does it do? 

Many apps and websites track your activity and sell it to third parties without your permission. This can serve you with targeted ads and content, and sometimes, it can even lead to cybercrime or data breaches.

The Threat Manager puts you in charge. By enabling it within the “Advanced Protection” settings, you block these trackers and malicious actors from communicating with your device. Enjoy a safer, more private browsing experience with ExpressVPN.

3) Split Tunneling

Split tunneling is a valuable feature that can significantly improve browsing speed. This is because some everyday browsing activities don’t require the extra security of a VPN tunnel. Split tunneling lets you choose which apps or websites use the encrypted VPN connection, and which one uses your regular internet connection. 

ExpressVPN offers split tunneling on most platforms, including Linux, Windows, Android, and Mac applications, as well as router apps. However, it’s currently unavailable for iOS devices and macOS versions 11 and above.

4) Keys Password Manager

A password manager allows you to store all your passwords and sensitive information in an encrypted digital vault. ExpressVPN offers a similar password manager called ExpressVPN Keys. Its features include:

• Generating alphanumeric passwords
• Storing strong passwords for all your online accounts
• Autofilling passwords on websites and apps
• Securely storing notes and credit card details
• Generating two-factor authentication or 2FA codes

While ExpressVPN Keys uses zero-knowledge encryption to protect your privacy, it is not as advanced as 1Password.

5) Parental Controls

Want to protect your child from age-inappropriate content? ExpressVPN offers Parental Control. This feature blocks adult sites and other offensive content using publicly available and open-source lists.

To enable it on the Windows app, switch to the Automatic or Lightway protocol. Then, go to Menu > Options > Advanced Protection and check the box for “Block adult sites.” On Android devices, find Parental Control under Upgrade > Advanced Protection. For other devices, follow the parental control page.

6) ID Alerts

ExpressVPN has launched ID Alerts to protect users from data theft. This feature includes dark web monitoring, address change monitoring, and social security number monitoring. All users who sign up for ExpressVPN after October 28, 2024, can access ID Alerts for free.

This feature is currently available to US users.  ID Alerts can be enabled by navigating to Upgrades > ID Alerts and entering your personal information for ExpressVPN to scan for identity theft.

User Interface

Devices	Experiences
Windows	Clean and intuitive user interfaceAll features and functions are clearly displayed
macOS	Looks similar like Windows systemSetting up and using the VPN is straightforward
Linux	Complex navigation process for non-technical usersLinux interface requires navigation through the terminalSome features may be unavailable
Android and iOS mobile	Well-designed user interfaceThe Android app offers a few extra features compared to the iOS version
Browser Extension	Separate extensions for Chrome, Opera, Edge and other popular browsersLightweight extensions and easy to install

The overall ExpressVPN interface is clean and user-friendly. Key features like the kill switch, ad blocker, and split tunneling are easily accessible within the “Options” menu.

ExpressVPN provides a user-friendly experience across a wide range of devices. However, Linux users should know the more technical setup process.

Performance & Reliability

After testing various aspects of ExpressVPN, I can confidently say it ranks among the top VPNs of 2025. The user-friendly applications offer one-tap connection in just seconds. One noteworthy feature is including parental controls, which help protect children from unauthorized streaming content.

Over several months of use, I’ve enjoyed consistent speeds with minimal downtime, similar to other reputable paid VPNs. Transitioning between networks doesn’t disrupt your VPN connection. 

ExpressVPN also relies on manual application updates. Be sure to stay up-to-date with the latest security patches to ensure optimal protection.

ExpressVPN Alternatives

While ExpressVPN offers excellent security and ease of use, it may not be the most affordable option. Here’s a look at three strong competitors with a budget-friendly price tag.

1) NordVPN

NordVPN, launched in 2012, has earned a reputation for its ultra-fast speeds and robust security. It’s headquartered in Panama and offers some unique features: Meshnet, threat protection, dark web monitor, and dedicated IP. 

NordVPN offers a larger server network (over 7169 servers across 111 nations) than ExpressVPN (3,000 servers in 105 locations). It also lets you connect more devices (10) than ExpressVPN (8), making it a better choice for families.

The pricing is more budget-friendly than ExpressVPN. Their 2-year plan with 4 months extra access comes in at just $2.91 per month. You can purchase through my link to avail additional discounts. 

2) Surfshark

Surfshark is a versatile, robust VPN service provider. They launched in 2018 and moved their headquarters from the British Virgin Islands to the Netherlands, a privacy-friendly country.

However, unlike ExpressVPN, Surfshark goes a step further by providing additional features like CleanWeb, Camoflouge mode, NoBorders mode, Double VPN, etc. Plus, Surfshark One is an all-in-one digital security subscription that includes Surfshark VPN, antivirus software, a secure search engine, and an identity monitoring service.

Unlike ExpressVPN, it allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. A 2-year subscription to Surfshark Starter can be as low as $2.09 per month. You can also get an extra month of access by purchasing through our link. 

3) ProtonVPN

Launched in 2017 by Proton AG, a well-respected Swiss company known for its secure email services, ProtonVPN benefits from Switzerland’s jurisdiction, which falls outside the 14 Eyes alliances known for government surveillance.

It offers a comprehensive set of features, including RAM-only servers, a kill switch to prevent accidental leaks, a strict no-logs policy, and strong encryption. Compared to ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN stands out with its superior support for multiple devices (allowing up to 10 simultaneous connections). 

ProtonVPN provides both free and paid plans. The 2-year plan provides excellent value at $3.59 per month, and you might even find additional discounts through my links.

ExpressVPN Pros

In my opinion, ExpressVPN excels in several key areas:

1) Superior Speed

I experienced download speeds of 189Mbps and upload speeds of 111Mbps on the Indian server, with a ping of 114ms. ExpressVPN consistently delivers fast connections with minimal downtime. In fact, the upload speed is better than NordVPN and Surfshark. 

2) Virtual Indian Server

Due to Indian government regulations requiring user data storage, ExpressVPN no longer maintains physical servers in India. However, they offer two virtual Indian servers that provide blazing-fast speeds while upholding user privacy.

3) RAM-based Servers

ExpressVPN uses RAM-only servers, enhancing security and privacy. Every server reboot automatically wipes clean all user data, eliminating the potential storage of sensitive information.

4) User-Friendly Interface

The user interface (UI) is intuitive and easy to navigate. All features are clearly displayed within the settings options, making it simple to find and use the desired functions.

5) Exceptional Customer Support

You can connect directly with knowledgeable agents, bypassing any automated bots. Their comprehensive knowledge base provides informative guides and a wealth of FAQs for self-service troubleshooting.

6) Support Multiple Devices

ExpressVPN has increased its device connection limit. Users can now connect up to 8 devices simultaneously, an improvement from the previous limit of 5 devices.

ExpressVPN Cons

1) Acquisition by Kape Technologies

In 2021, Kape Technologies, a cybersecurity company with a checkered past, acquired ExpressVPN for a hefty $936 million. This raises concerns about ExpressVPN’s future commitment to privacy.

Kape Technologies, formerly known as Crossrider, developed software some consider malware. While Crossrider shut down in 2016 and rebranded, its past association raises red flags. 

Kape Technologies’ ownership of popular VPN review websites like vpnmentor.com and wizcase.com creates a potential conflict of interest, as users might not get unbiased reviews.

2) Split Tunneling 

ExpressVPN lacks split tunneling on iOS apps. This means iOS users can’t choose which traffic goes through the VPN and which uses their regular internet connection, potentially impacting browsing speeds.

3) Expensive Plans

Why Should You Trust Me?

Wondering why you should listen to my advice on VPNs? I’ve been following tech trends since 2015, so I know what’s going on. I’ve actively used various SaaS tools and services to optimize my workflow for real-hand experience. 

 In the last 3 years, I’ve reviewed over 30 free VPNs and paid VPNs, including popular choices like Surfshark, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN. To help you out even more, I’ve created videos explaining things like the India VPN ban and the difference between VPNs and Tor. Plus, I made a handy VPN buying guide!

I actively maintain subscriptions to several VPN services. This allows me to stay on top of the latest features, performance updates, and security patches.

Conclusion

ExpressVPN is a reliable VPN service for frequent travelers and privacy enthusiasts. While some users express concern about the acquisition by Kape Technologies, it has been four years since the acquisition, and I have observed no significant changes to the service. They consistently maintain strong privacy and quality, supported by regular audits of various features. So, I continue to maintain an active subscription.

One of ExpressVPN’s strengths is its extensive server network, spanning over 105 countries. Features like a kill switch, split tunneling, and AES 256-bit encryption contribute to a positive user experience. Their RAM-based servers and proprietary Lightway protocol ensure optimal security.

ExpressVPN supports all major Indian and international streaming platforms. Customer support and reliability are also commendable. While ExpressVPN offers many advantages, there are some trade-offs to consider. It lacks features like multi-hop connections, antivirus, etc. If these features are crucial for you, consider alternatives like Surfshark, NordVPN, or ProtonVPN. 

Additionally, ExpressVPN’s pricing is on the higher end compared to some competitors. However, if you’re new to VPNs and just want to try one out for free, we have a list of the 4 best free VPNs in India that you can explore.

It’s important to note that this review is based on my personal experience and performance testing. You can avail amazing discounts using my link. Want more such detailed reviews? Feel free to leave a comment below and suggest other VPNs from your wishlist!

FAQs