ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access
Head-to-head comparison based on published specifications and independent benchmarks. Pricing and specs verified August 2026.
Winner: ExpressVPN wins in 4 out of 7 categories
Category-by-Category
| Category | ExpressVPN | Private Internet Access | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | 9.7 | vs | 8.8 |
| Privacy | 9.4 | vs | 9.2 |
| Streaming | 9.8 | vs | 8.5 |
| Security | 9.5 | vs | 9.0 |
| Price | from $3.49/mo | vs | from $2.03/mo |
| Network | 214 | vs | 10,000+ |
| Devices | 10 to 14 (by plan) | vs | Unlimited |
Speed Comparison
ExpressVPN has a -2% speed drop while Private Internet Access shows -12%. ExpressVPN takes this category on reported speed figures. Speed data is based on independent benchmarks across multiple protocols and server locations, not our own testing.
Privacy Comparison
ExpressVPN is based in BVI while Private Internet Access operates from USA. ExpressVPN edges ahead in privacy with a stronger overall privacy profile. Scores are based on no-logs policies, audit history, jurisdiction, encryption standards, and leak protection.
Streaming Comparison
ExpressVPN unblocks 8 streaming services while Private Internet Access unblocks 4. ExpressVPN wins this category with more reliable streaming access across platforms. Streaming compatibility is evaluated across multiple platforms and server locations.
Security Comparison
Both ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access offer AES-256 encryption and kill switch protection. ExpressVPN scores higher in security due to additional features and infrastructure hardening. Security scores are based on encryption, protocol implementation, DNS/IP leak protection, kill switch reliability, and server infrastructure.
Full Specification Comparison
| Feature | ExpressVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Protocols | Lightway, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-hop | No | No |
| Ad Blocker | Yes | Yes |
| Obfuscation | Automatic obfuscation (supported platforms) | Multi-Hop obfuscation (Shadowsocks) |
| Fire TV App | Amazon Appstore | Amazon Appstore |
| Smart DNS | MediaStreamer | Smart DNS |
| Jurisdiction | BVI | USA |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 to 14 (by plan) | Unlimited |
| Server Count | Not published | 10,000+ |
| Country Count | 113 | 90 |
| Speed Drop (reported) | -2% | -12% |
| Lowest Price | from $3.49/mo | from $2.03/mo |
| Plan Length | 2yr plan | 3yr + 3mo plan |
| Streaming Services | Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Peacock, DAZN, Paramount+ | Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime |