Astrill VPN vs ExpressVPN
Finding the right virtual private network can feel a bit like stepping into a crowded marketplace. Bright banners wave for your attention and each vendor promises the world. Two of the loudest voices belong to Astrill VPN and ExpressVPN. Astrill emerged from the Seychelles with tools designed to punch through firewalls and became a favourite for travellers in tightly censored regions. ExpressVPN, headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, focused on polish, speed and a far‑reaching server network. I’ve taken both along on long trips and boring nights at home, and the choice isn’t obvious at first glance. In this guide we take you through every corner of these services so you can decide with confidence.
Instead of just declaring a winner, we’ll explore who might benefit most from each provider. Maybe you work from cafes on video calls, maybe you’re a gamer trying to keep ping low, or perhaps you live somewhere where certain websites are blocked. You’ll see which VPN excels under which circumstance. We’ll also point out places where neither one is ideal and where hardware‑based or plug‑and‑play VPN alternatives could suit your home better. Grab a coffee and let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- Astrill VPN charges a premium price, yet its custom StealthVPN and OpenWeb protocols make it one of the few services that consistently break through government firewalls and restrictive networks, which is why people in censorship‑heavy regions flock to it.
- ExpressVPN offers a huge global network, audited privacy practices and its own Lightway protocol that feels nearly invisible while streaming, gaming or browsing, making it a sensible choice for most users.
- For those who don’t want to manage software on multiple gadgets, dedicated VPN routers and simplified hardware solutions can protect an entire household quietly in the background.
Quick Comparison: Astrill VPN vs ExpressVPN
| Criteria | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Long‑term price | About US$12.50 per month on a two‑year plan | About US$6 per month on a one‑year plan |
| Money back guarantee | None | 30 days |
| Server network | Roughly 330 servers in about 58 countries | More than 3 000 servers in 105 countries |
| Maximum devices | Five devices | Eight devices |
| Supported protocols | OpenWeb, StealthVPN, WireGuard, OpenVPN | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Unique features | Port forwarding, VPN sharing, Safe‑browse | RAM‑only servers, Threat Manager, Smart Location |
| Streaming support | Works with US Netflix but struggles with BBC iPlayer and Prime Video | Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer and more |
| Use in China | Yes, via StealthVPN | Often blocked |
| Best for | Travellers in censored regions, torrenters | Streamers, gamers and general users |
Even a quick glance shows how different these services are. Astrill’s price tag is steep, and there is no refund window. It does offer niche tools like port forwarding and server‑level sharing that few competitors provide, yet its server list is modest by modern standards.
ExpressVPN is cheaper on longer plans, offers a risk‑free trial period and runs a much larger fleet of RAM‑only servers. Both support multiple protocols, but ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway delivers noticeably lower latency. Your choice hinges on whether you need specialised censorship‑busting features or simply a fast, reliable VPN for everyday use.
Looking beyond these two, there are other ways to secure your internet connection. For instance, the Shellfire Box acts as a plug‑and‑play VPN router that protects every device in your home without any software installation. It cannot match the vast server selection of Astrill VPN or ExpressVPN, yet it offers the convenience of whole‑home coverage and may appeal to people who value simplicity over customisation.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Metric | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Total servers | About 330 | Over 3 000 |
| Countries covered | Roughly 58 | About 105 |
| Americas | Five countries | Twenty‑four countries |
| Europe | Thirty‑five countries | Forty‑seven countries |
| Asia Pacific | Sixteen countries | Twenty‑seven countries |
| Middle East/Africa | Two countries | Eight countries |
| Special servers | Physical and virtual machines with optional port forwarding | RAM‑only TrustedServer infrastructure |
| Static or dedicated IP | Available for an extra fee | Not offered |
Astrill’s network is small but strategic. It focuses on Europe and Asia with carefully placed servers in cities like Hong Kong and Singapore to help users evade local firewalls. If you’re based in North or South America, however, you might run into congestion due to the limited number of nodes.
ExpressVPN spans far more locations across all continents, giving you access to both popular and unusual endpoints. Its servers run entirely in RAM and are wiped on each reboot, which adds a layer of security for sensitive traffic. The breadth of ExpressVPN’s coverage makes it ideal for streaming and gaming, whereas Astrill prioritises quality over quantity by investing in jurisdictions that are harder to serve.
Readers curious how ExpressVPN stacks up against other market leaders from a network standpoint can find a deeper exploration of server reach and country coverage in our ExpressVPN vs NordVPN comparison. It dives into how these giants allocate resources across regions and what that means for users living outside the usual US‑Europe corridors.
Speed & Performance
| Location | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Approx. 122 Mbps down / 31 Mbps up (195 ms) | Approx. 132 Mbps down / 44 Mbps up (135 ms) |
| United Kingdom | Approx. 132 Mbps down / 97 Mbps up (60 ms) | Approx. 130 Mbps down / 110 Mbps up (31 ms) |
| Canada | Approx. 149 Mbps down / 56 Mbps up (153 ms) | Approx. 144 Mbps down / 63 Mbps up (121 ms) |
| Germany | Approx. 130 Mbps down / 110 Mbps up (38 ms) | Approx. 147 Mbps down / 123 Mbps up (34 ms) |
| Latency impact | Moderate to high | Lower overall |
Across most regions, ExpressVPN edges ahead in download speed and, more importantly, latency. Its Lightway protocol is designed to connect quickly and keep pings low, which shows when gaming or taking video calls. Astrill performs well on some servers, occasionally beating ExpressVPN in Europe for raw throughput. However, we observed higher latency, particularly when connecting across continents. If you mainly browse and stream locally, Astrill’s speeds are more than adequate, but frequent travellers or gamers may prefer ExpressVPN’s consistency.
If you’re also weighing latency and throughput across different providers, the data in our ExpressVPN vs Windscribe article offers another point of reference. It examines how both services perform under real‑world conditions so you can better judge whether paying a premium for top‑tier speeds is necessary for your needs.
Security & Privacy
| Feature | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES‑256‑CBC and ChaCha20 | AES‑256‑GCM |
| Protocols | OpenWeb, StealthVPN, WireGuard, OpenVPN | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Kill switch | Available on desktop and mobile | Network Lock on all platforms |
| Split tunnelling | App and site based | App and site based |
| Audits | No independent audit to date | Multiple independent audits |
| Additional tools | Port forwarding, VPN sharing, Safe‑browse | Threat Manager, RAM‑only servers, TrustedServer |
Both VPNs secure your traffic with strong encryption and a kill switch, and both provide split tunnelling so you can choose which apps run outside the VPN. The differences appear in their transparency and extra features. ExpressVPN has undergone multiple independent audits to verify its no‑logs policy and infrastructure, and its RAM‑only TrustedServer technology ensures data is wiped whenever a server is rebooted.
Astrill has yet to complete an external audit, and while it keeps no usage logs, it does collect some connection timestamps for maintenance. Where Astrill pulls ahead is in speciality tools: port forwarding appeals to torrenters, and its StealthVPN protocol obfuscates traffic to slip past censorship. ExpressVPN counters with Threat Manager to block malicious domains and a track record of third‑party verification.
Streaming Performance
| Platform | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix | US library reliably accessible; other regions are inconsistent | Unblocks multiple libraries smoothly |
| Amazon Prime Video | Often blocked | Accessible across several regions |
| BBC iPlayer | Limited success | Unblocks consistently |
| Disney+ | Unreliable | Works well |
ExpressVPN has a strong reputation for streaming. It unblocked every service we threw at it, from Netflix and BBC iPlayer to Disney+ and Hulu. Buffering was rare, even with 4K video.
Astrill could open Netflix US but failed to get into Prime Video or iPlayer. Its network is optimised for stealth rather than entertainment, which shows in these results. If streaming is a priority, ExpressVPN is the safer choice.
Looking for reliable streaming access across all devices?
Our Shellfire Box is designed to provide consistent access to your favorite streaming platforms, which can be a helpful solution if you’re experiencing issues with other VPNs.
Platform Compatibility
| Platform | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Windows/macOS/Linux | Yes | Yes |
| iOS/Android | Yes | Yes |
| Browser extensions | No | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Smart TVs & consoles | Manual setup only | Native apps for Fire TV, Apple TV and consoles via MediaStreamer |
| Routers | Custom firmware available | Pre‑configured router applet |
Both providers offer well‑designed apps for desktop and mobile operating systems. ExpressVPN goes further with dedicated apps for Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV and browser extensions, and its MediaStreamer feature unlocks region‑locked content on consoles.
Astrill can be installed on routers and even provides its own firmware, but there are no official browser extensions and you must set up streaming devices manually. If you plan to protect a wide range of gadgets, ExpressVPN requires less tinkering.
Performance in Censorship‑Heavy Countries
| Region | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| China | Reliable access via StealthVPN | Frequently blocked |
| Russia | Works with customised obfuscation | Unreliable |
| Iran/UAE | Generally accessible | Often blocked |
If you live behind the Great Firewall or similar censorship apparatus, Astrill VPN is one of the few mainstream services that just works. Its StealthVPN protocol camouflages traffic to evade detection. ExpressVPN used to work in these environments, but restrictions have tightened, and many of its servers are now blocked. Users in Russia, Iran or the UAE will find more consistent connections with Astrill. For general travel outside those regions, ExpressVPN’s huge network and Lightway protocol offer smoother performance.
User Experience & Apps
| Aspect | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Busy interface with advanced toggles | Clean, intuitive design |
| Setup | Requires configuration; some features hidden | Quick installation and smart location button |
| Mobile apps | Feature rich; kill switch and split tunnelling | Polished and easy to navigate |
| Device management | Manual device selection; five connections | Eight simultaneous connections; device names shown |
Astrill’s desktop and mobile apps are packed with options. Advanced users can toggle protocols, enable split tunnelling and configure port forwarding, but the abundance of settings may overwhelm newcomers. ExpressVPN keeps things simple: a giant power button, a smart location suggestion and a short list of settings. It’s easier for less technical users to get started, and the Lightway protocol reconnects quickly if the network drops. Express also labels connected devices clearly, which is handy when you manage multiple gadgets.
Some readers may prefer a solution that requires no app management at all. The Shellfire Box and its companion Shellfire VPN service offer a truly hands‑off experience by routing all your household traffic through a small hardware device. While it lacks the advanced toggles and flashy interfaces of Astrill VPN and ExpressVPN, it shields smart TVs, game consoles and guests’ phones with zero configuration, making it an appealing option for families or technophobes.
Customer Support
| Channel | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Live chat | Available, but not 24/7 | 24/7 live chat |
| Yes; responses within 12 hours | Yes; responses within a few hours | |
| Knowledge base | Moderate; video tutorials included | Extensive; covers troubleshooting and setup |
| Support quality | Helpful but sometimes slow | Fast, professional and detailed |
Support is the last piece of the puzzle. Astrill offers live chat but only during certain hours, and email replies can take half a day. The staff are knowledgeable, yet the wait can be frustrating if you’re dealing with connection issues. ExpressVPN runs a truly 24/7 live chat, and responses usually come within minutes. Its knowledge base is extensive, so you can often solve problems without contacting an agent. If you value fast help, ExpressVPN is the better choice.
Additional Features
| Feature | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Port forwarding | Yes | No |
| VPN sharing | Yes (create a Wi‑Fi hotspot) | No |
| Threat blocking | Safe‑browse option | Threat Manager blocks trackers and malware |
| TrustedServer technology | No | Yes |
Astrill’s niche tools make it appealing to certain users. Port forwarding is invaluable for torrenting and remote server access, and its VPN sharing feature lets you create a secure hotspot without installing the app on another device. ExpressVPN doesn’t offer these, but its Threat Manager stops ads and trackers at the DNS level. TrustedServer ensures that even if a server is compromised, no data will be left on the disk. When choosing, consider whether you value specialised networking features over corporate‑grade security and privacy.
It’s also worth noting that hardware‑centric options such as the Shellfire Box prioritise ease of use over bells and whistles. While you won’t find port forwarding or obfuscation protocols on a Shellfire device, its simplicity and ability to cover all devices in your home make it a sensible alternative for those who prefer to avoid per‑device apps and complicated settings.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting and More
| Use case | Astrill VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Torrenting | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Gaming | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Remote work | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Budget users | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Censorship bypass | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
Best VPN for Streaming
For anyone whose Friday nights revolve around movies or binge‑watching series, a VPN must dodge streaming blocks. Here ExpressVPN shines, unlocking Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu and more without fuss. During tests, 4K videos loaded quickly and stayed crisp. Astrill managed to access the US Netflix library but stumbled on other services. If streaming is your top priority, ExpressVPN’s larger network and dedicated streaming servers make it the safer bet.
On the other hand, Astrill’s limited success with Prime Video or BBC iPlayer means you may have to try multiple servers or accept regional content. Its focus on obfuscation rather than entertainment shows here. Casual streamers might be satisfied with occasional access, but heavy streamers will appreciate ExpressVPN’s consistency.
While both services cater to cord‑cutters in different ways, it’s worth remembering that you don’t always need to juggle apps on each device. Hardware like the Shellfire Box pairs with the Shellfire VPN service to give your smart TV and streaming sticks a secure, region‑shifting connection without managing separate apps.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
When sharing large files via P2P, you want both speed and privacy. Astrill offers optional port forwarding, which opens a direct route for incoming connections and speeds up downloads. Its dedicated P2P servers keep the activity contained. ExpressVPN allows torrenting on all servers, though there’s no port forwarding. In our experience, Astrill edged ahead in download speed on P2P tasks thanks to that port forwarding feature.
That said, ExpressVPN still performs well for torrents and provides a stronger privacy framework with RAM‑only servers. If you only torrent occasionally or prioritise anonymity, ExpressVPN remains solid. Heavy seeders or those hosting game servers might prefer Astrill.
Best VPN for Gaming
Gamers need low latency and stable upload speeds. ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol and wide network deliver a smoother experience. During our tests, ping times remained playable, and games loaded with minimal delay. Astrill’s custom protocols can produce decent throughput, but the high latency spikes on some servers were noticeable. If you play fast‑paced shooters or competitive titles, ExpressVPN has the edge.
Astrill isn’t unusable for gaming, and its WireGuard implementation can be quick when you find the right server, but you may need to test multiple locations to get an acceptable ping. ExpressVPN takes the guesswork out of it by finding the fastest server automatically.
Gamers looking for a hassle‑free solution might also consider a hardware VPN. A device like our Shellfire Box provides consistent, stable speeds across your entire network. It won’t deliver the ultra‑low latency of ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol, but for casual players who value convenience over competitive edge, its simplicity and whole‑home coverage can be a welcome trade‑off.
Best VPN for Remote Work
Remote workers juggle video meetings, file uploads and secure access to company resources. ExpressVPN’s stability, low latency and broad server list make it ideal for connecting to cloud services and conference calls. Its split tunnelling lets you route only corporate apps through the VPN to maintain speed for other tasks. Astrill provides strong encryption and offers split tunnelling too, but the smaller network can lead to congestion at peak times.
If you work from highly censored regions and need to reach internal company networks abroad, Astrill’s obfuscated protocols could be essential. For most remote professionals, ExpressVPN’s combination of speed, reliability and ease of use will make the workday smoother.
Best VPN for Budget‑Conscious Users
Astrill’s entry price of around US$12.50 a month is steep, and there is no free trial or refund. It does include features like port forwarding that are often sold as add‑ons elsewhere, but the overall cost may deter budget shoppers. ExpressVPN sits around US$6 per month when you choose an annual plan and offers a 30‑day money‑back guarantee, making it easier to test.
If cost is your primary concern, you may look to free or very cheap VPNs, but be aware that many have limitations or questionable privacy practices. Between these two, ExpressVPN represents better value for most people.
Best VPN for Censorship‑Heavy Countries
Here the tables turn. Astrill’s StealthVPN protocol is built to evade deep packet inspection, and the provider has long been trusted by users in China, Iran and the UAE. While no VPN can guarantee constant access, Astrill’s infrastructure is designed to withstand blocks and quickly rotates IP addresses when servers are detected.
ExpressVPN used to be a top choice for bypassing censorship but has faced more frequent blocks in recent years. If connecting from China or similar environments is important to you, Astrill offers the more dependable path. Outside of these regions, ExpressVPN may still work, but results are inconsistent.
Conclusion
Deciding between Astrill VPN and ExpressVPN depends on what you value most. Astrill is expensive and has a smaller network, yet its speciality protocols, port forwarding and persistent success in censored regions make it a lifesaver for certain users. ExpressVPN, with its broad server list, independent audits and user‑friendly apps, is a well‑rounded option for streaming, gaming and everyday privacy. Consider where you live, how you browse and what features matter to you.
If the idea of installing and managing VPN software on every device sounds like a chore, there are alternatives worth considering. A plug‑and‑play solution like the Shellfire Box can protect every device on your home network without fiddling with settings, and the Shellfire VPN app offers simple privacy on the go. The Box covers smart TVs, consoles and even guests’ phones with no extra effort. It may not have the advanced features of Astrill or the expansive network of ExpressVPN, but for households seeking hassle‑free security it’s a compelling third option.
