PrivateVPN vs ExpressVPN
When choosing a VPN, users often face a familiar dilemma: should you save money with a smaller provider or go all in for a premium option that promises rock-solid reliability? PrivateVPN and ExpressVPN perfectly illustrate those two philosophies.
PrivateVPN keeps things simple with a smaller server network, affordable plans, and practical extras like port forwarding and a free dedicated IP. ExpressVPN, on the other hand, operates a massive network of RAM-only servers across more than 100 countries, focusing on audited privacy standards and consistent speed across all platforms.
This comparison breaks down both VPNs in terms of infrastructure, speed, privacy, streaming, and everyday usability. You’ll also find star ratings for different use cases and suggestions for alternatives if neither of these fits your exact needs.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- PrivateVPN includes port forwarding and a dedicated IP with every plan, which makes it appealing for users who host services or rely on P2P transfers.
- ExpressVPN runs more than 2,000 RAM-only servers in 105 countries and uses its Lightway protocol for fast and secure connections.
- There are other VPN options that combine a large global network with advanced features, providing alternatives if you’re looking for different capabilities.
Quick Comparison: PrivateVPN vs ExpressVPN
| Feature | PrivateVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Server count & countries | 200+ servers in 63 countries | Over 2,000 RAM-only servers in 105 countries |
| Encryption & protocols | AES-128/256-GCM; WireGuard, OpenVPN, L2TP, IPsec | AES-256 or ChaCha20; OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), Lightway, IKEv2 |
| Special features | Port forwarding and dedicated IP included; no split tunneling | Split tunneling, Lightway protocol, Network Lock kill switch, RAM-only servers |
| No-logs & audits | Strict no-logs policy but not verified by a third party | Independently audited no-logs policy; based in the British Virgin Islands |
| P2P & streaming | P2P on all servers; streaming works on many locations | P2P and Netflix streaming supported on all servers |
ExpressVPN clearly offers broader infrastructure and more advanced features, but it also costs more. PrivateVPN shines with simplicity and built-in extras like port forwarding and dedicated IPs. If neither of these fits what you’re looking for, you can always explore Shellfire’s VPN software or the hardware-based Shellfire Box, both of which deliver straightforward, secure performance. More details are available on the Shellfire VPN page.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Aspect | PrivateVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Total servers | Just over 200 servers | Over 2,000 servers |
| Countries | 63 countries | 105 countries |
| Infrastructure type | Standard servers | RAM-only servers reset weekly |
| Specialised servers | P2P on all servers; dedicated IP and port forwarding | Servers optimized for streaming; virtual servers for some countries |
PrivateVPN’s small network spans 63 countries, not massive, but enough to give users a fair range of locations while keeping server loads manageable. ExpressVPN’s reach extends to 105 countries with RAM-only servers that automatically wipe data after each reboot. The wider spread means you’re more likely to find a nearby server with low latency and stable speeds. For a deeper look into how ExpressVPN stacks up against other competitors, you can check Shellfire’s comparison of ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost.
Speed & Performance
| Metric | PrivateVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Download impact | Varies widely; some servers improve speed by 1 %, others slow down by more than 80 % | Download speeds drop about 39 % on Mac and 37 % on Windows |
| Upload impact | Inconsistent; some servers show heavy slowdowns | Upload speeds decrease by about 14 % on Mac and 23 % on Windows |
| Latency | Varies; some servers reduce ping by 30 %, others raise it significantly | Ping increases from 14 ms to 20 ms (Mac) and 19 ms (Windows) |
| Best protocol for speed | WireGuard (when available) | Lightway protocol provides fast reconnections and minimal overhead |
PrivateVPN can be unpredictable when it comes to speed. Some servers perform almost as fast as your normal connection, while others may slow things down considerably. ExpressVPN tends to be more consistent. Although speeds typically drop by about one-third, they remain steady enough for smooth HD streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers. Its Lightway protocol helps keep performance stable by reconnecting quickly without needing a full handshake every time.
Security & Privacy
| Aspect | PrivateVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-128/256-GCM | AES-256 or ChaCha20 depending on protocol |
| Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN, L2TP, IPsec | OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), Lightway, IKEv2 |
| Kill switch | Kill switch failed during testing | Network Lock kill switch functioned reliably |
| No-logs policy & audits | Strict no-logs policy but not verified by third-party | Independently audited no-logs policy and weekly server resets |
| Additional security | Port forwarding; DNS and WebRTC leak protection | Split tunneling, private DNS, IP rotation and TrustedServer technology |
In terms of privacy and security, ExpressVPN clearly takes the lead. Its RAM-only servers are wiped with every reboot, and third-party audits verify its no-logs claims. The Network Lock kill switch and the Lightway protocol work together to maintain stable protection without sacrificing speed. PrivateVPN also uses strong encryption and supports port forwarding, but the absence of an audit and the unreliable kill switch reduce its trust factor.
Streaming Performance
| Service | PrivateVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Supported platforms | Unblocks Netflix and other services; results vary by server | Accesses Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and more on all servers |
| Smart DNS | No | No dedicated Smart DNS, but widely available apps |
| Streaming servers | No dedicated streaming servers; requires some trial and error | All servers optimized for streaming; includes rare locations like Bulgaria and Slovakia |
| Quality & stability | Good quality when using fast servers; inconsistent overall | Smooth HD and 4K playback with minimal buffering |
ExpressVPN stands out as one of the best VPNs for streaming. It reliably unlocks Netflix libraries from various countries and works seamlessly with platforms like Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Performance remains stable, and you can expect buffer-free playback most of the time. PrivateVPN, while capable of unblocking Netflix and similar services, often requires some testing to find the right server. Its lack of specialized streaming nodes means results can fluctuate between sessions.
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 | PrivateVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop OS | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Mobile OS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS |
| Smart TV & devices | Amazon Fire TV; manual configuration for other devices | Android TV, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Aircove router |
| Browser extensions | None | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Simultaneous connections | 10 devices | Up to 10–14 devices depending on plan |
ExpressVPN supports an extensive range of platforms, from desktops and mobile devices to smart TVs and routers. Its apps feel well-polished and include advanced options like split tunneling and a kill switch on most operating systems. PrivateVPN covers the essentials but on a smaller scale. It works smoothly on Windows, macOS, and mobile platforms, with a dedicated Fire TV app and manual router setup guides.
Both allow up to ten simultaneous connections, though ExpressVPN’s premium plan extends this limit to fourteen. If you’re curious about how it compares with another major player, Shellfire’s detailed review of ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN explores those differences in depth.
Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries
| Country | PrivateVPN rating | ExpressVPN rating |
|---|---|---|
| China | Moderate – some obfuscation but inconsistent | Good – obfuscated and virtual servers help bypass restrictions |
| Iran | Poor – limited network and little success | Moderate – success depends on the chosen server |
| UAE | Moderate – variable success and limited coverage | Good – Lightway and obfuscation help overcome local restrictions |
| Russia | Poor – small network limits connectivity options | Moderate – uses virtual servers when needed |
Both services attempt to work under restrictive internet environments, but ExpressVPN performs more consistently thanks to its larger infrastructure and Lightway protocol. It’s one of the few VPNs that still manages to function reliably in China and the UAE. PrivateVPN offers basic obfuscation features, yet they aren’t always enough to bypass strong censorship. If you need guaranteed access in restrictive regions, ExpressVPN is the safer choice.
User Experience & Apps
| Aspect | PrivateVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | Simple interface with both basic and advanced modes | Refined apps with intuitive design and flexible settings |
| Settings granularity | Limited; lacks split tunneling and deep configuration | Split tunneling, protocol selection, and Lightway refresh options |
| App stability | Stable overall, though kill switch may fail occasionally | Highly stable; frequent updates and broad compatibility |
| Special features | Port forwarding, dedicated IP, simple interface | Lightway protocol, Network Lock, split tunneling, threat protection |
ExpressVPN delivers one of the smoothest app experiences among all VPNs. The interface is intuitive, the performance is stable, and switching between servers or protocols feels seamless. It’s especially beginner-friendly without limiting advanced users. PrivateVPN has a straightforward design that gets the job done but misses a few features like split tunneling.
If you want a simple plug-and-play option that protects every device in your home network, the Shellfire Box offers an effortless alternative through a dedicated hardware solution.
Customer Support
| Support channel | PrivateVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Live chat | 24/7 live chat and email support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Email support | Yes | Yes |
| Knowledge base | Helpful guides and FAQs | Extensive tutorials and video guides |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
Both VPNs provide reliable customer service through live chat and email, available 24/7. Each one backs its service with a 30-day money-back guarantee. ExpressVPN stands out slightly thanks to its more extensive library of tutorials and video instructions, which make setup and troubleshooting easier even for beginners. PrivateVPN’s support is efficient, but its documentation is more limited in comparison. In practice, both teams respond quickly and provide helpful solutions.
Additional Features
| Feature | PrivateVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Split tunneling | No | Yes – available on app and domain level |
| Double VPN / multi-hop | No | No – but Lightway refresh and Network Lock improve reliability |
| Ad/tracker blocking | No | Ad blocking and malware protection on higher-tier plans |
| Port forwarding | Yes – included for free | No – but includes split tunneling and router support |
| Other tools | Dedicated IP; customizable encryption | TrustedServer technology, IP address rotation, integration with password manager and Aircove router |
ExpressVPN offers a rich set of extra tools, including split tunneling, ad blocking, automatic IP rotation, and its unique TrustedServer system. PrivateVPN focuses more on essentials like port forwarding and dedicated IP addresses, which are particularly helpful for torrenting or remote access setups. For users who prefer a simple, network-wide solution without installing multiple apps, the hardware-based Shellfire Box provides an efficient alternative.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use case | PrivateVPN rating | ExpressVPN rating |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Torrenting / P2P | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Gaming | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Remote work | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Budget | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Censorship-heavy countries | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best VPN for Streaming
ExpressVPN clearly excels when it comes to streaming. Its large global network, optimized servers, and Lightway protocol ensure smooth access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more, without noticeable buffering.
PrivateVPN can also unblock popular platforms, but success depends heavily on finding the right server. If your goal is reliable, high-quality streaming, ExpressVPN is the better fit. Those who prefer a plug-and-play setup that protects multiple devices simultaneously can consider Shellfire’s VPN software, which delivers solid streaming speeds through an easy interface.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
Both providers support P2P activity, but PrivateVPN has a slight advantage for torrenting thanks to built-in port forwarding and dedicated IP support.
ExpressVPN remains a strong option as well, combining high speeds, a no-logs policy, and a reliable kill switch that ensures your IP stays hidden. Choose PrivateVPN for advanced P2P control or ExpressVPN for a balanced mix of speed, security, and simplicity.
Best VPN for Gaming
For gamers, low latency and stable performance are essential. ExpressVPN offers consistently lower ping times and minimal lag across its global network, making it ideal for multiplayer sessions. Its Lightway protocol helps maintain smooth gameplay.
PrivateVPN, while functional, can suffer from inconsistent speeds, particularly on distant servers. Competitive players will likely find ExpressVPN the more dependable option.
Best VPN for Remote Work
ExpressVPN provides the better toolkit for remote professionals, with reliable split tunneling, stable speeds, and strong encryption across devices.
PrivateVPN offers basic protection and port forwarding but can feel limited when you need uninterrupted, secure sessions for video calls or data transfers. For users who value simplicity and security in a home-office setup, pairing the Shellfire VPN with the Shellfire Box is a practical alternative.
Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users
PrivateVPN stands out for its affordability and practical extras like free port forwarding and a dedicated IP. It’s an excellent choice if you want solid functionality without paying premium prices.
ExpressVPN, meanwhile, is more expensive but includes advanced tools like ad blocking, router support, and the Lightway protocol. If you’re mainly focused on price, PrivateVPN gives better value, but ExpressVPN remains the more complete package overall.
Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries
In regions with strict internet controls, ExpressVPN delivers superior reliability. Its obfuscated servers, virtual locations, and Lightway technology give it an edge in places like China or the UAE.
PrivateVPN offers some obfuscation but isn’t as consistent in bypassing government blocks. Users who frequently travel or live in heavily censored areas will likely prefer ExpressVPN for stable and secure access.
Conclusion
PrivateVPN and ExpressVPN cater to different types of users. PrivateVPN appeals to those who value simplicity and affordability, offering features like port forwarding, a dedicated IP, and broad P2P support at a low cost. However, its small server network and inconsistent performance may not suit those who need high reliability. ExpressVPN commands a higher price, but it delivers exceptional stability, verified privacy, and a vast server network. It’s a solid pick for streaming, gaming, remote work, and anyone who prioritizes security and consistency.
If advanced privacy features, audited security, and seamless performance are important to you, ExpressVPN is worth the investment. For users on a budget who mainly need reliable torrenting and basic protection, PrivateVPN provides excellent value. And if you’re still undecided, both the Shellfire VPN and the Shellfire Box offer practical, easy-to-use alternatives that combine strong encryption with effortless setup, ideal for protecting every device at home or on the go.
