Top VPN Alternatives in 2023

Looking beyond ExpressVPN: Top VPN Services to Consider in 2023

Searching for a reliable VPN service can be overwhelming with numerous options available today. While ExpressVPN remains a popular choice, several competitors offer compelling features that might better suit your specific needs and budget.

When evaluating VPN alternatives, we considered essential factors including server coverage, privacy policies, bandwidth limitations, streaming capabilities, and customer support quality. Here are six outstanding options worth your consideration:

NordVPN stands out as a premier alternative, matching ExpressVPN in performance while offering more competitive pricing. Though ExpressVPN boasts wider server distribution, NordVPN delivers comparable security features and excellent speeds.

For budget-conscious users, Surfshark provides exceptional value with an impressive feature set at a fraction of ExpressVPN's cost. While its customer service may not be as polished, the affordability makes it a compelling choice for many users.

IPVanish distinguishes itself with remarkable speeds, particularly for U.S.-based connections. Its unlimited simultaneous connections policy and dedicated phone support give it unique advantages in the market.

CyberGhost impresses with speeds that actually surpass ExpressVPN in many locations. Its specialized servers optimized for streaming and torrenting make it particularly attractive for media enthusiasts.

PrivateVPN operates a smaller network but excels in specialized areas - it works reliably with major streaming platforms and functions effectively in China despite government restrictions. Its customer service receives consistently high marks.

Hotspot Shield offers a comprehensive security package that extends beyond VPN protection, bundling a quality password manager and spam-call blocking features for users seeking an all-in-one solution.

Each of these services provides unlimited bandwidth and maintains strict no-logging policies to protect your privacy. Your ideal choice depends on your specific priorities - whether that's price, speed, streaming capabilities, or additional security features. May 2025NordVPN stands out as a top-tier VPN service, offering premium features at nearly half the cost of ExpressVPN. While ExpressVPN boasts server locations in almost 100 countries, NordVPN covers 60 countries but compensates with a significantly larger number of servers.

In terms of speed, both services are among the fastest, providing robust security features such as cloaking technology, private DNS, and kill switches. However, NordVPN goes a step further by including ad and malware blocking, enhancing its overall security package.

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN excel in streaming and are reliable for use in China. They have received "excellent" ratings on Trustpilot, based on over 11,000 user reviews each. In customer service, ExpressVPN has a slight edge, responding more quickly to email inquiries.

Despite their similarities, key differences exist. ExpressVPN offers a wider global server network, while NordVPN provides additional security features and a lower price point. Recently, ExpressVPN's acquisition by Kape Technologies, a company with a controversial history, has raised some concerns. One of Kape's executives even admitted to illegal hacking, which could influence some users to prefer NordVPN for its unblemished reputation.

NordVPN is particularly effective at unblocking popular streaming sites like Netflix. Its extensive network includes over 5,000 servers across 60 countries, ensuring a no-logs policy and process-specific kill switches in most apps. However, users cannot manually select specific servers, and occasional slow server performance may be experienced.

Our rating: 5 out of 5

NordVPN is an exceptional all-around VPN, known for its high speed, enhanced security, and excellent streaming capabilities. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. For a detailed comparison, read our full review of NordVPN or check out our comprehensive guide comparing NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

Surfshark positions itself as a competitive ExpressVPN alternative by balancing affordability with robust performance

Despite its younger market presence, the service delivers premium-grade encryption and reliable geo-unblocking for streaming platforms

A standout feature is support for unlimited device connections—ideal for large families or multi-gadget users

While ExpressVPN maintains speed superiority and broader server coverage, Surfshark counters with aggressive pricing and malware protection

Advanced security offerings include obfuscated servers for bypassing strict firewalls and a functional ad-blocker

Concerns linger about smaller server network size and sporadic mobile CAPTCHA triggers during usage

The provider’s 24/7 live chat assistance helps offset ExpressVPN’s slightly more polished customer support

Budget-conscious users gain premium security essentials without paying premium prices

Independent audits verify Surfshark’s no-logs policy, matching ExpressVPN’s privacy assurances

For streaming enthusiasts, both VPNs reliably access global content libraries from abroad

Surfshark’s rapid feature expansion makes it a compelling value-focused option in the VPN market

IPVanish stands out with blazing-fast connection speeds that rival top competitors in performance tests

While lacking a dedicated Linux application, it supports unlimited simultaneous device connections across other platforms

The service distinguishes itself through 24/7 telephone support—a rare feature that benefits non-tech-savvy users

Independent reviews praise its intuitive interface and robust security features including military-grade encryption

Streaming enthusiasts should note limitations: struggles with accessing Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Chinese internet restrictions

Trustpilot ratings highlight exceptional customer satisfaction, with only 3% of users reporting negative experiences

Potential users should weigh its questionable corporate background against verified no-logs policy claims

When compared to ExpressVPN, IPVanish matches speed but falls short in server network size and geo-unblocking capabilities

Key advantages include RAM-only servers, kill switch functionality, and SOCKS5 proxy support for advanced configurations

Ideal for households needing multi-device protection and users prioritizing real-time voice support over streaming access

CyberGhost outperforms ExpressVPN in raw connection speeds during recent benchmarks, making it a top choice for bandwidth-heavy activities like 4K streaming and large file transfers. With over three times more servers globally than its sibling provider, CyberGhost’s expansive network reduces congestion risks for users.

Both VPNs excel at accessing geo-restricted streaming platforms, but CyberGhost struggles in heavily censored regions like China and the UAE where ExpressVPN maintains reliable access. A key divergence lies in router compatibility – ExpressVPN offers specialized firmware for simplified setup, whereas CyberGhost provides no dedicated router support, favoring desktop and mobile platforms instead.

Despite shared ownership under Kape Technologies (a company with prior privacy-related scrutiny), CyberGhost maintains a strict no-logs policy audited by independent third parties. User satisfaction metrics reveal near-identical ratings across review platforms, though CyberGhost extends its refund window to 45 days compared to ExpressVPN’s 30-day guarantee.

The service shines with intuitive apps featuring military-grade encryption by default, supporting seven concurrent connections. Limitations include absence of port forwarding and lingering concerns about Kape’s corporate history. For newcomers prioritizing simplicity and performance, CyberGhost’s combination of speed optimizations and streamlined interface makes it particularly appealing for media-centric use cases.

Full analysis available via detailed provider reviews.

VPN Services Comparison

PrivateVPN, a rapidly expanding service based in Sweden, was recently acquired by Miss Group in June. Miss Group is known for owning several web hosting companies.

When compared to ExpressVPN, PrivateVPN holds its ground as one of the fastest services, though ExpressVPN ranks as the third-fastest we've tested. ExpressVPN boasts thousands of servers across almost 100 countries, while PrivateVPN has a few hundred servers in a significantly smaller number of countries.

Both services are compatible with major streaming platforms and operate effectively in China. They also offer robust security and privacy features.

The extensive server network and high speed of ExpressVPN provide significant advantages. Users are more likely to find a nearby server and face less congestion. However, PrivateVPN excels in customer satisfaction, boasting a 4.9/5 rating on Trustpilot.

• Unblocks Netflix US, UK, and other regions
  
• Swedish provider with a strict no-logs policy
  
• Features a kill switch and automatic WiFi protection that activates if the connection drops
  
• Offers user-friendly iOS and Android apps
  
• Supports Linux, but requires manual setup
  
• Live chat support is not available 24/7
  

Our score: 5 out of 5

High customer ratings: Out of approximately 1,600 user reviews on Trustpilot, less than two percent of customers rate PrivateVPN as poor or bad, which is exceptional for any business.

Read our complete review of PrivateVPN. Hotspot Shield, a service owned by Pango, has seen significant improvements in the past couple of years. While its premium subscription is pricier than many competitors and requires a three-year commitment, it's still less expensive than ExpressVPN. The higher price is justified by the inclusion of 1Password, a highly-rated password manager, and a junk-call blocker. For those already using or paying for a password manager, Hotspot Shield can be a cost-effective choice.

For users on a budget, Hotspot Shield offers a free, ad-supported version with reduced features and speed. This provides a way to test the service before committing to a paid plan, though the company also offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.

In terms of server count and global presence, ExpressVPN outperforms Hotspot Shield, with more servers in more countries, including virtual servers. However, Hotspot Shield's speeds are decent, even if they don't match ExpressVPN's. Live streaming, once a weakness, is now a strength for Hotspot Shield. It also works in China, although the service can be inconsistent in heavily censored regions.

• Works in China
  
• Reliable, high-speed connections
  
• Strong security
  
• Unlocks many region-locked services
  
• Some past privacy concerns
  
• No live chat support
  

Hotspot Shield excels in unblocking content, offering five simultaneous connections, and delivering impressive speeds. For a full review, see our detailed analysis.

ExpressVPN, a premium service, cannot be directly compared to free VPNs. While there are very affordable alternatives like CyberGhost, Surfshark, and IPVanish, which offer competitive features at a fraction of the cost, free VPNs often compromise on performance, connectivity, features, privacy, and security. Many free services display ads and track user data. For the best free options, check our guides on "Best Free VPNs for Windows" and "Best Free VPns for Windows 11 in 2022."

Top free VPNs include Hotspot Shield, Windscribe, ProtonVPN, TunnelBear, and Speedify. These are typically limited and slowed versions of their commercial counterparts.

ExpressVPN faced controversy in September 2021 when it was acquired by Kape Technologies, formerly known as Crossrider, a company with a history of distributing malware and adware. Kape disputes these claims, but the situation remains murky. Since the acquisition, ExpressVPN maintains that it operates independently, addressing customer concerns on its website.

Another issue arose when Daniel Gericke, ExpressVPN's CIO, was involved in a hacking scandal called Project Raven. Gericke and two others avoided prosecution by paying $1.6 million to the U.S. government. Despite this, Gericke remains employed by ExpressVPN, citing his cybersecurity expertise.

While ExpressVPN continues to provide an excellent product, some customers have left due to these controversies. If you're looking for alternatives, we recommend several in this article.

ExpressVPN positions itself as a premium brand, similar to Apple, Nike, BMW, and Ray-Ban. While it may not compete on price, it offers superior service. The cost of running a VPN is high, involving server purchases, global hosting, software development, and customer support. Marketing expenses further add to the costs, making low-priced VPNs potentially unprofitable without a large customer base.

ExpressVPN is not inherently expensive; it just uses a different business model. If you need specific features or have ethical concerns, consider alternatives like NordVPN and Surfshark, which offer comparable services. ExpressVPN's privacy policy states that it does not store activity or connection logs, only minimal usage data for technical issues.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN is a specialized virtual private network service that enables subscribers to bypass geographical restrictions imposed by Netflix, allowing access to content libraries from different countries. This technology works by routing your internet connection through servers located in various regions around the world, effectively masking your actual location and making it appear as though you're browsing from the server's country. By using a Netflix VPN, viewers can significantly expand their streaming options and enjoy shows and movies that might otherwise be unavailable in their home region.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If you want to access region-restricted content by Netflix VPN, you may want to consider the SafeShell VPN . This advanced tool is designed to overcome the common issues faced by many users, such as a Netflix vpn not working due to outdated software. SafeShell VPN ensures that you have the latest technologies and features to bypass any detection mechanisms, providing a seamless streaming experience.

One of the key benefits of SafeShell VPN is its high-speed servers, which are specifically optimized for Netflix. These servers ensure that you can stream your favorite shows and movies without any interruptions, offering buffer-free playback and high-definition streaming. Additionally, SafeShell VPN allows you to connect up to five devices simultaneously, supporting a wide range of operating systems including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more. This means you can enjoy your content on any device you choose, making it incredibly versatile and user-friendly.

Another standout feature is the exclusive App Mode, which lets you unlock and enjoy content from multiple regions at the same time. This provides you with a diverse range of streaming services and libraries, giving you the freedom to explore a world of entertainment without restrictions. Furthermore, SafeShell VPN offers lightning-fast connection speeds with no bandwidth limitations, ensuring that you can stream, download, and browse at unprecedented speeds. With top-level security provided by the proprietary "ShellGuard" protocol, your online privacy is always protected. Lastly, SafeShell VPN offers a flexible free trial plan, allowing you to experience its robust features without any commitment.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

Accessing global Netflix content has never been easier with SafeShell Netflix VPN , a powerful tool designed to bypass geographic restrictions. To begin your journey into unlimited streaming possibilities, first visit SafeShell's official website where you can select from various subscription plans tailored to different needs and budgets. After completing your purchase, download the appropriate application for your device—whether it's Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android—and install it following the on-screen instructions. Once installation is complete, launch the app and log into your account to get started.

For the optimal Netflix streaming experience, select APP mode within the SafeShell interface, then browse through the available server locations. Choose a server in the country whose Netflix library you wish to access—popular options include the US for the largest content selection, the UK for British shows, or Canada for its unique offerings. After connecting to your chosen server, simply open the Netflix application or website, sign in with your existing credentials, and enjoy an expanded world of entertainment that was previously unavailable in your region. With SafeShell Netflix VPN, you'll never miss out on exclusive content again.