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Best for Streaming and VPN Beginners
Premium VPN offering strong security and ultra-fast speeds
Strict no-logs policy with independent audit
In-house Lightway protocol for more speed and security
More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost
Best for High-Censorship Countries
High-speed VPN servers
Robust encryption
Pricier than most competitors
With a large number of virtual private network (VPN) services available, it can often be difficult to choose the right one. ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN both stand out as some of the best VPN providers, but which is better?
ExpressVPN is known for exceptional speed, seamless server connections, and a robust security framework. Astrill VPN offers an array of unique features and is reliable in countries with high internet restrictions, such as China.
In this article, we’ll take a look at ExpressVPN vs. Astrill VPN to compare their costs, features, and compatibility and help you make an informed decision.
ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN, though both top contenders in the VPN market, cater to different needs and offer distinctive features.
ExpressVPN is a great choice if you want a blend of speed, security, and simplicity while browsing the internet. It has a user-friendly interface, an abundance of VPN server locations, and exceptional streaming capabilities, making it ideal for both VPN newcomers and avid streamers.
On the other hand, Astrill VPN stands out with its advanced customization options and reliable performance in high-censorship countries. It's best suited for tech-savvy users who desire granular control over their VPN settings. It’s also a great option for those situated in or traveling to places like China, where internet access is heavily restricted.
 ExpressVPN |
 Astrill VPN |
|
| Price | $6.67–$12.95/mo | $12.50–$30.00/mo |
| Max # of connected devices | 8 | 5 |
| 24/7 customer support | ||
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers |
| # of server countries | 105 countries | 57 countries |
| VPN protocol | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, L2TP/IPsec | OpenWeb, StealthVPN, OpenVPN, WireGuard |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | ||
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN | Read Astrill VPN Review |
ExpressVPN, with its expansive network of server locations, ensures quick and stable connections no matter where you are. In contrast, Astrill VPN, while having fewer server countries, makes up for it with a range of unique stealth protocols that excel at penetrating high-censorship firewalls, like the Great Firewall of China.
In terms of privacy, both providers pledge to uphold a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain confidential. When it comes to entertainment, a significant point of contention is whether the VPN can unblock Netflix, given the streaming giant's stringent measures against VPNs. Both ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN can unblock Netflix, but ExpressVPN has better luck with a wider variety of streaming services.
Finally, excellent customer support is crucial for a smooth VPN experience. Both ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN boast 24/7 customer service. Yet, the effectiveness of the support provided can be a deciding factor, particularly for those new to using VPNs. In our experience, ExpressVPN’s support team was more timely than Astrill VPN.
Our Pick
|
|
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| Price range | $6.67–$12.95/mo | $12.50–$30.00/mo |
| Best value plan | 12-month plan for $6.67/mo | 2-year plan for $12.50/mo |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 30 days | |
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN | Read Astrill VPN Review |
Astrill VPN is pricier, with its cheapest subscription starting at $12.50/mo for a two-year commitment. It also has an annual plan for $15.00/mo and a month-by-month plan for $30.00/mo, which is on the higher end relative to other VPN services. Unlike ExpressVPN, Astrill VPN doesn't offer a money-back guarantee, which might deter some potential users due to the higher commitment involved. Astrill does offer a seven-day free trial, but you will probably have to go through customer support to get it.
| Feature | Our Pick
|
|
| Number of servers | 105 countries | 57 countries |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| VPN headquarters | British Virgin Islands | Liechtenstein |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| VPN protocol | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, L2TP/IPsec | OpenWeb, StealthVPN, OpenVPN, WireGuard |
| Kill switch | ||
| Split tunneling | ||
| Netflix support | ||
| Torrenting support | ||
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN | Read Astrill VPN Review |
ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN don't list their server counts. However, ExpressVPN appears to boast a significantly larger network with servers spread across 105 countries, Astrill covers a smaller range of 57 countries.
Both VPN providers have a no-logs policy, which affirms that they do not collect or store user activity data. ExpressVPN's no-logs policy has been independently audited by KPMG, adding an extra layer of trustworthiness. To date, it appears Astrill VPN has yet to run an international audit on its no-logs policy.
When it comes to security, both use AES-256 encryption, widely regarded as the gold standard for data encryption. They also both provide a kill switch, which prevents data leaks by automatically cutting off internet access if the VPN connection drops.
In terms of protocols, ExpressVPN offers Lightway, its own custom-built protocol designed for speed and security, among other standards like OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec. Astrill VPN offers an assortment of protocols as well, including StealthVPN, which is designed for bypassing firewalls in highly censored countries like China.
| Platform | ExpressVPN Best for Streaming
|
Astrill VPN |
| Netflix | ||
| Amazon Prime Video | ||
| Hulu | ||
| BBC iPlayer | ||
| Disney+ | ||
| HBO Max | ||
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN | Read Astrill VPN Review |
One of the primary reasons many use VPNs is to access geo-restricted content on various streaming platforms. ExpressVPN excels in this aspect, successfully unblocking a range of popular services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and more.
Astrill VPN claims to unblock Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO Max, but neglects to say anything about BBC iPlayer and Disney+. This is a considerable limitation if you want to enjoy a wide variety of international content from these popular platforms.
| ExpressVPN | Astrill VPN | |
| Works in China | ||
| # of servers in Asia | 26 APAC countries | 13 APAC countries |
| StealthVPN protocol |
With VPNs, operating successfully in China represents a considerable achievement due to the nation's stringent internet censorship and the Great Firewall. Fortunately, both ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN manage to provide reliable service in the region.
ExpressVPN operates numerous servers across Asia, which aids in maintaining good speed and connection quality. Although it doesn't have the StealthVPN protocol like Astrill, it uses a proprietary protocol called Lightway, which is designed for speed, security, and reliability. ExpressVPN's obfuscation techniques have proven effective in bypassing the Great Firewall.
On the other hand, Astrill VPN has fewer servers in Asia but includes the StealthVPN protocol. This protocol is specifically designed to obscure VPN traffic, making it difficult for censorship systems to detect and block it. Thus, Astrill VPN is a reliable choice for users in China.
It's essential to note that conditions can change rapidly due to the constant cat-and-mouse game between VPN providers and Chinese censors. Therefore, it's always a good idea to have a backup VPN.
When using a VPN, internet speed is a significant factor that can greatly impact your online experience, especially if you're streaming, gaming, or downloading large files. That's why we conducted a comprehensive speed test for ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN. Speeds can vary based on numerous factors, but our tests aimed to provide a fair comparison of the two services under the same conditions.
| Server location | ExpressVPN Best Speeds
|
Astrill VPN |
| US | 98% slower | 125.41% slower |
| EU | 83% slower | 133.93% slower |
| AU | 39% slower | 124.26% slower |
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN | Read Astrill VPN Review |
Looking at our speed test results, ExpressVPN consistently outperformed Astrill VPN across all server locations, providing a more stable and fast internet experience. We were surprised to see that the Australian servers had the least impact compared to the U.S. and EU. Typically, server locations that are further from your physical location would slow down your internet more.
| ExpressVPN Best Compatibility
|
Astrill VPN | |
| Windows | ||
| macOS | ||
| Android | ||
| iOS | ||
| Linux | ||
| Router | ||
| Smart devices | ||
| Browser extensions | Chrome, Firefox | Chrome, Firefox |
| 24/7 support | ||
| Customer support options | Live chat, email, online guides | Live chat, email, online guides |
ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN offer comprehensive support for a wide range of devices and operating systems. This includes Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers. However, ExpressVPN has an edge with its support for smart devices, which Astrill VPN lacks.
A VPN's interface is an important factor because it directly influences your VPN experience. ExpressVPN distinguishes itself with an easy-to-use interface. The settings are easy to find, and the program is simple to use, even for inexperienced users. It also has a simple map display for selecting servers; however, this is not displayed straight away and must be found in a menu.
Alternatively, Astrill VPN offers a more complex interface that may appeal to expert users but might be intimidating for newcomers. Although the settings are well organized, the look might be simpler and more contemporary. It is also difficult to know how to switch the VPN on and find the list of VPNs.
As far as customer support, ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN excel with a comprehensive suite of assistance tools. Both services offer 24/7 live chat, email support, and online guides.
During our interactions, ExpressVPN's support team proved prompt, knowledgeable, and helpful, resolving queries quickly and effectively. Astrill VPN also offers a solid support experience, with responsive live chat and detailed online guides, although responses could be a bit more timely.
The payment options provided by a VPN are crucial, as it directly affects your convenience and, in certain situations, privacy. ExpressVPN offers multiple payment options, including credit cards, prepaid debit cards, PayPal, and even cryptocurrencies like bitcoin. These choices provide a blend of convenience and privacy, with cryptocurrencies allowing for anonymous payments.
Astrill VPN also boasts a range of payment options. These include credit and debit cards, PayPal, Perfect Money, and bitcoin. Additionally, they offer options catering to specific regional preferences, such as WeChat Pay and AliPay.
Yes, ExpressVPN is known to work reliably in China and is listed as one of our top VPNs for China. To circumvent the Great Firewall, it has features like obfuscated servers and its proprietary Lightway protocol.
According to its FAQs, Astrill VPN offers a seven-day free trial, but you may need to request it from customer support.
Lightway is ExpressVPN's proprietary VPN protocol, designed to deliver superior speed, security, and reliability. The protocol aims to offer a seamless user experience by being lightweight and quick to connect.
Because of its dependability, Astrill VPN is an excellent choice for use in China. It contains significant features that allow it to perform successfully, such as Stealth VPN and Smart Mode.
ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN both have their benefits. ExpressVPN has a large server network, strong security mechanisms, excellent streaming, and a no-logs policy. It includes an easy-to-use interface that caters to both novice and expert users.
Astrill VPN provides a decent VPN service at a higher price and with fewer server locations than ExpressVPN. The VPN boasts dependable security, fast connections, and innovative features such as its StealthVPN technology, which allows you to circumvent censorship.
Ultimately, ExpressVPN comes out as the best VPN of the two due to its bigger server network, wider device compatibility, superior streaming capabilities, and certified privacy safeguards. Its service is significantly more comprehensive, which justifies its price and makes it the superior pick between the two.
Premium VPN offering strong security and ultra-fast speeds
Strict no-logs policy with independent audit
In-house Lightway protocol for more speed and security
More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost
