Avast SecureLine VPN vs ExpressVPN
If you are torn between Avast SecureLine VPN and ExpressVPN, you are really comparing a streamlined VPN from a well known antivirus brand with a premium service that leans hard into audits and global reach. Both encrypt your traffic and hide your IP, but they take very different paths when it comes to network size, security design, and long term trust. The goal here is simple, help you match the right VPN to the way you actually stream, game, work, or travel. Picture a few everyday scenarios: watching BBC iPlayer from a hotel TV, jumping on a video call from café Wi Fi, downloading a big game patch on a Sunday night. The right pick depends on which of those sounds like your week.
In this comparison, we go deep on infrastructure, speed, privacy architecture, streaming reliability, censorship performance, and support, and we call out notable controversies for context. You will also see where alternative, simplified VPN setups make more sense depending on your household or device mix.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- Avast SecureLine VPN offers lower long term pricing and simple apps with a 60 day trial, and its smaller network of roughly 700 servers in about 35 countries, with selected P2P and streaming locations, suits casual users who prioritize ease and cost over breadth.
- ExpressVPN delivers globe spanning coverage with servers in 105 countries, RAM only TrustedServer architecture, multiple independent audits, the Lightway protocol, and a newer Post Quantum WireGuard option, making it a flexible, transparency focused choice for power users and frequent travelers.
- You can also consider plug and play home setups or hardware first solutions that protect every device at once, for example router level or appliance style VPN approaches, if you prefer to avoid installing apps on each device.
Quick Comparison: Avast SecureLine VPN vs ExpressVPN
| Key Spec | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Company & Jurisdiction | Avast Software s.r.o., Czech Republic | Express Technologies Ltd., British Virgin Islands |
| Server Footprint | ~700 servers in ~34–37 countries | Servers in 105 countries |
| Core Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IPsec, Mimic, app selectable | Lightway, default, OpenVPN, IKEv2, Post Quantum WireGuard newly added |
| Security Architecture | Standard, disk based, servers; kill switch; leak protection | RAM only TrustedServer; extensive leak protections |
| No Logs / Audits | No third party no logs audit to date | Multiple third party audits, KPMG, PwC, Cure53, and more |
| Simultaneous Devices | Up to 10 | Up to 8, unlimited via router app |
| Typical Pricing, long term | ~$4.39–$4.59 per month on multi year plans | $6.67–$4.99 per month on 12–24 month offers; $12.95 monthly |
ExpressVPN is built for users who want maximum country coverage, stronger transparency through audits, and a hardened, RAM only server design. Avast SecureLine VPN is friendlier on price and fine for everyday privacy, but its smaller footprint and lighter trust posture make it a better fit for casual use rather than heavy streaming, frequent travel, or tough censorship.
For readers who want to avoid installing apps on every device yet keep things simple, the plug and play Shellfire Box is a sensible middle path. It sits next to your router and routes selected devices through a VPN with a quick location pick, so a smart TV or a guest tablet is covered in seconds. In practice, it keeps the ease many people like about Avast while solving the whole home question that Express typically handles with a router app.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Metric | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Total Servers / Countries | ~700 / ~34–37 | “Thousands” / 105 countries |
| City Level Diversity | US has most options, many countries single city | Wide city spread across Americas, Europe, and APAC |
| Virtual Locations | Not highlighted | Some virtual server locations, documented |
| Server Tech | Conventional deployments | RAM only TrustedServer, ongoing 10 Gbps upgrades |
| Specialty Servers | Selected P2P and streaming servers | General network, streaming via standard locations |
For travelers, ExpressVPN offers more nearby options and a tighter security model, very handy when hopping between hotel Wi Fi and café hotspots. Avast SecureLine VPN still works for everyday privacy and occasional streaming, but if you need consistent access to niche regions or you often make long haul connections, the broader coverage of ExpressVPN is more forgiving. Quick tip, when possible, connect to the closest country that serves your content to avoid surprise buffering.
Speed & Performance
| Metric | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Download Speed Retention | Medium, good for everyday browsing and HD streaming | High, robust for 4K streaming and large downloads |
| Upload Speed Retention | Medium | High |
| Latency Impact, Ping | Moderate | Low |
| Jitter & Stability Under Load | Medium | High |
| Peak Hour Consistency | Medium, more variance on distant hops | High, stable across regions |
| Fastest Practical Protocol | WireGuard | Lightway, UDP |
If your routine is web, messaging, and occasional HD streaming from nearby servers, Avast SecureLine VPN feels perfectly fine. ExpressVPN usually holds higher throughput and lower latency across more regions, which competitive gamers, 4K streamers, and frequent travelers appreciate. A practical example, downloading a new Call of Duty patch during peak hours tends to finish sooner on ExpressVPN, especially if the nearest Avast SecureLine VPN location is a country or two away.
Security & Privacy
| Feature | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Core Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, plus “Mimic” or obfuscation option in app, platform dependent | Lightway, WolfSSL, OpenVPN, IKEv2, platform dependent |
| Encryption | AES 256 on OpenVPN/IKEv2; ChaCha20 on WireGuard | AES 256 on OpenVPN/IKEv2; ChaCha20 on Lightway UDP |
| Kill Switch | Yes, desktop and mobile, platform dependent | Yes, desktop and mobile |
| Split Tunneling | Yes, availability varies by OS | Yes, broad platform support |
| Server Architecture | Conventional, disk based | RAM only TrustedServer, wipes on reboot |
| Independent Audits | No public no logs audit | Multiple third party audits, infrastructure, apps, and no logs |
| Tracker or Threat Blocking | Not integrated in VPN app, covered in Avast AV suite | Threat Manager, DNS level tracker and domain blocking on supported platforms |
| Privacy Posture | No activity logs; limited diagnostics or telemetry, toggleable | No activity or identifying connection logs; minimal diagnostics |
ExpressVPN emphasizes verifiability, RAM only servers and recurring independent audits, and is shaped for users who want strong, externally checked assurances, think journalists, privacy enthusiasts, or frequent travelers. Avast SecureLine VPN is sound for day to day protection, but it lacks a public no logs audit and the Avast brand still carries baggage for some readers due to earlier data handling controversies outside the VPN product.
If independent verification and hardened infrastructure are top priorities, pick ExpressVPN. If you mainly want encrypted connectivity from a familiar security brand at a lower price, Avast SecureLine VPN is a practical pick.
If you are weighing audit track records against privacy extras like RAM only servers and incident response, a side by side can help. For a deeper look at how two heavyweights stack up on verification and technical safeguards, see our hands on comparison ExpressVPN vs NordVPN. It walks through audit scope, protocol choices, and the practical trade offs you actually feel day to day.
Streaming Performance
| Service / Capability | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix, US/UK/Global | Works on select locations; may require trial and error | Consistently reliable across multiple regions |
| Disney+ | Generally works, not guaranteed at peak hours | Generally reliable; fewer proxy errors |
| Prime Video | Mixed results by catalog | Strong unblocking for multiple catalogs |
| BBC iPlayer | Inconsistent | Typically reliable with UK endpoints |
| Max / Hulu / Others | Varies | Good overall track record |
| Smart DNS, devices without VPN apps | No | Yes, MediaStreamer |
| Resolution Stability, HD/4K | HD stable; 4K depends on distance and load | HD and 4K stable on most major catalogs |
Avast SecureLine VPN can unlock popular platforms, but expect occasional trial and error with locations and more variance during peak hours. ExpressVPN remains one of the most dependable choices for multi region catalogs and 4K playback, and its Smart DNS makes it easier to use with consoles and smart TVs that do not support native VPN apps. Tip, if a service throws an error, switch to a nearby city, clear the app cache, then retry.
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
| Category | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop OS | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS, Linux, CLI |
| Mobile OS | Android, iOS/iPadOS | Android, iOS/iPadOS |
| Browser Extensions | No dedicated VPN proxy extension | Chrome, Firefox, Edge, controls desktop app |
| Smart TV & Streaming Devices | No native TV apps | Android TV and Fire TV apps; Smart DNS for Apple TV and more |
| Game Consoles | Router based only | Smart DNS or router app |
| Routers | No native router app | Native router app or firmware with device wide coverage |
| Simultaneous Connections | Up to 10 | Up to 8, unlimited via router |
If you stick to phones and laptops, both are straightforward. If your home includes smart TVs or consoles, or you want whole house coverage, ExpressVPN makes life easier with its router app and Smart DNS. A nice perk, guests on your Wi Fi get protected without installing anything.
Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries
| Country / Region | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| China, mainland | Limited or inconsistent | Stronger resilience with obfuscation |
| Iran | Limited | Moderate, may require protocol rotation |
| UAE | Limited | Moderate to good with tuned settings |
| Russia | Limited | Moderate, variable by ISP |
| Turkey | Limited | Good overall reliability |
| India | Works best via nearby regions | Works best via nearby regions or virtual locations |
Network filtering evolves quickly, so no provider can promise perfect access everywhere. Avast SecureLine VPN offers basic obfuscation and may require more trial and error. ExpressVPN generally fares better thanks to more robust obfuscation and a larger pool of endpoints. Practical advice, favor nearby countries first to reduce latency and detection risk, and be ready to switch protocols if a region tightens filtering.
User Experience & Apps
| Aspect | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Minimal, toggle centric, easy for beginners | Polished UI with clear status and one click connect |
| Location Picker | Simple list with favorites | Search, recent locations, and helpful labels |
| Split Tunneling | Available on select platforms | Broad platform coverage |
| Auto Connect Rules | Basic, for example on unsecured Wi Fi | Granular, untrusted Wi Fi, app launch, or system boot |
| Advanced Controls | Core essentials, protocol switch, kill switch | Deeper controls, Lightway, DNS options, threat blocking |
| Stability | Stable for day to day use | Very stable across regions and long sessions |
Avast SecureLine VPN is pleasantly simple, perfect if you just want a big connect button and minimal tweaking. Power users, multi platform households, and anyone who wants fine grained behavior, split tunneling on more OSes, custom DNS, automatic rules, will feel more at home with ExpressVPN. Small tip, if you use banking apps that dislike VPNs, add them to split tunneling.
There is also a straightforward option if you value calm, predictable apps. Shellfire VPN keeps the interface lean, and the Shellfire Box lets you move the complexity off your laptop and onto a small device you control. Connect it once, choose a region, and every console or TV that joins its Wi Fi uses the tunnel. Visitors do not need to install anything, which is a relief for the person who usually does tech support at home.
Customer Support
| Channel / Resource | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | Available for paid customers | 24/7 live chat |
| Email / Ticket | Yes | Yes |
| Guides & Tutorials | Knowledge base with setup articles | Extensive step by step guides |
| Average First Response | Hours, queues vary | Minutes, typically fast |
| Community Forum | Yes, Avast forum | No official forum |
| Refund / Money Back | Yes | Yes |
Both vendors cover the basics and provide clear setup documentation. If you value instant, around the clock troubleshooting, especially for streaming or travel, ExpressVPN tends to shorten downtime with faster chat responses. Avast SecureLine VPN is perfectly adequate for installation and standard connectivity questions.
Additional Features
| Feature | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Obfuscation / Stealth | Basic, Mimic or stealth modes on select apps | Automatic obfuscation on many protocols or locations |
| Ad or Tracker Blocking | Not built into VPN app, available in Avast AV products | Threat Manager, DNS based domain blocking |
| Split Tunneling | Yes, platform dependent | Yes, broad platform support |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Port Forwarding | No | No, not on consumer apps |
| Double VPN / Multi hop | No | No |
| Smart DNS | No | Yes, MediaStreamer |
| Router App / Firmware | No | Yes, dedicated app or firmware plus own router line |
| Custom DNS / Leak Controls | Standard leak protections | Granular DNS options plus extensive leak protections |
| Dedicated IP | No | No |
Both cover the essentials, encryption, kill switch, split tunneling, but ExpressVPN layers on Smart DNS, router support, and broader obfuscation, helpful if you want to protect TVs and consoles or you travel often. Avast SecureLine VPN keeps it simple and cost effective, which makes sense if you mainly want private browsing and occasional streaming on personal devices.
For living room gear and older devices, there is another practical route. Instead of Smart DNS or custom firmware, our Shellfire Box creates a dedicated Wi Fi that sends all traffic through the VPN. That means streaming sticks, older smart TVs, and game consoles benefit without extra steps, and you can switch regions from the Box dashboard when a catalog gets fussy. It will not replace niche power features like multi hop chains or complex routing tables, but for day to day protection it neatly covers the blind spots many standalone apps leave open.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use Case / Criteria | Avast SecureLine VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming reliability | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Gaming latency | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Torrenting stability | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Privacy & audits | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Censorship resistance | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease of use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Router & TV support | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Budget value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Best VPN for Streaming
For multi region Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and 4K playback on living room devices, ExpressVPN is the safer bet. Its Smart DNS lets you use services on Apple TV, PlayStation, and other devices that do not support VPN apps, and the larger location spread reduces buffering when you need a nearby high bandwidth exit. If your streaming is mostly local catalogs on phones and laptops, Avast SecureLine VPN can be sufficient. Expect some trial and error with locations and more variance at peak hours, but for casual HD streaming it is cost effective and easy to operate.
If your priority is a tidy living room setup, the Shellfire Box is worth considering here as well. Plug it in, connect your Apple TV or console to its network, pick a region, and you are done. Because everything routes through the Box, you avoid app specific workarounds on devices that do not support VPN clients. Performance still depends on your distance to the chosen server and your home bandwidth, so the best results come from selecting the nearest region that unlocks the catalog you want.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
ExpressVPN offers consistently higher throughput and a dependable kill switch, which helps avoid accidental exposure during client crashes or network hiccups. While it does not offer port forwarding, its speeds and broad endpoint choice tend to keep swarms healthy and downloads quick. Avast SecureLine VPN supports P2P on selected locations and works fine for light weekly use. If you seed heavily, connect to distant regions, or need maximum stability while multitasking, the performance edge of ExpressVPN is noticeable.
Best VPN for Gaming
Competitive and cloud gamers benefit from the lower typical ping and wider choice of nearby servers in ExpressVPN, which helps avoid congested routes and reduces jitter. Its router app can also protect consoles without flashing firmware manually. Avast SecureLine VPN is fine for casual gaming or lobby based titles where a few extra milliseconds will not matter. If minimal latency in ranked matches is your priority, or you game while traveling, ExpressVPN is the more forgiving pick.
For console players, the Shellfire Box can be a clean fix since it protects PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch without flashing router firmware. You simply join the console to the Box network and choose the closest location. As with any VPN, there is a small latency cost, so competitive users should stick to nearby endpoints and wire the Box to the router with Ethernet for the steadiest ping. If you value fewer moving parts over deep tweaking, this setup often feels calmer than juggling per device apps.
Best VPN for Remote Work
For video calls, large file transfers, and jumping between hotel and café networks, ExpressVPN brings stability, obfuscation, and a large global footprint. The ability to run on routers and use Smart DNS also simplifies mixed device environments. Avast SecureLine VPN covers the basics for encrypted access to web apps and email. If your workflow is light and mostly domestic, its simplicity and price are attractive. If you routinely join international meetings or remote into systems from abroad, the consistency of ExpressVPN reduces friction.
Best VPN for Budget Conscious Users
Avast SecureLine VPN typically wins on headline pricing over long commitments, and its apps are intentionally straightforward, ideal if you want a set and forget connection on a couple of devices without a learning curve. ExpressVPN costs more, but the add ons, router app and Smart DNS, audits, and wider coverage can justify the premium for multi device households or anyone who values time saved on troubleshooting. Consider whether you will actually use those extras before paying more.
And if your short list also includes a lower cost option, it is worth understanding how price interacts with features and network reach. Our side by side on ExpressVPN vs Surfshark breaks down where the savings show up, where they do not, and which kinds of households get the best value from each approach.
Best VPN for Censorship Heavy Countries
ExpressVPN is built with resilient obfuscation and a deeper bench of locations, which generally improves your chances of connecting during active filtering. If you travel frequently to regions with dynamic blocking, that flexibility matters. Avast SecureLine VPN includes basic stealth options that can work in milder scenarios. If access is mission critical or you often rely on hotel or corporate networks with strict DPI, the track record of ExpressVPN tends to be more dependable.
Conclusion
Avast SecureLine VPN and ExpressVPN both deliver encrypted, user friendly connections, but they are optimized for different priorities. Avast SecureLine VPN focuses on simplicity and lower long term pricing, which makes it a sensible everyday privacy tool for users who mainly browse, shop, and stream locally on a handful of devices.
ExpressVPN leans into breadth and verifiability, a larger country list, router and Smart DNS support, stronger obfuscation, and a long history of independent audits, a better fit for frequent travelers, streamers who hop catalogs, and anyone who values rigorous transparency. If brand trust weighs on your decision, remember the earlier Avast data collection controversy in non VPN products. The operation was shuttered, but some privacy focused users still prefer providers with regular third party audits.
If what you want is the easiest possible setup across an entire household, without juggling apps on every device, consider the broader ecosystem approach. Shellfire VPN offers straightforward apps, and the plug and play Shellfire Box can protect every device on your home network, TVs, consoles, guests’ phones, with minimal fuss. For many families and small apartments, that whole home coverage and low maintenance setup can be the real winner.
