We tested ExpressVPN (3.7/5) and Mullvad (4.2/5) across speed, privacy, streaming, and price. Mullvad leads on overall score. Here is what drives the gap.
| Criteria | ExpressVPN | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.7/5 | 4.2/5 ★ |
| Jurisdiction | British Virgin Islands | Sweden |
| 14-Eyes / 5-Eyes | No | Fourteen |
| No-logs policy | Audited 3/5 | Audited 4/5 ★ |
| Speed score | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Protocols score | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Streaming score | 5/5 ★ | 2/5 |
| Leak protection | 1/5 | 5/5 ★ |
| RAM-only servers | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Encryption score | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Security subtotal | 3.8/5 | 4.6/5 ★ |
| Trust subtotal | 2.7/5 | 4.0/5 ★ |
| Price (monthly) | $12.99/mo | $5.50/mo |
| Price (1-year total) | $59.88/yr | $66.00/yr |
| Price (2-year total) | $83.76/yr | N/A |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes, 30 days | Yes, 30 days |
| Pricing score | 3.5/5 | 4.5/5 ★ |
Where ExpressVPN wins
Where ExpressVPN pulls ahead: streaming (5/5 vs 2/5), features (3.4/5 vs 3.2/5). If those criteria matter most to you, ExpressVPN is the stronger pick.
Where Mullvad wins
Mullvad’s strongest argument is privacy and security (4.6/5 vs 3.8/5). It also leads on value for money (4.5/5 vs 3.5/5) and transparency and trust (4.0/5 vs 2.7/5).
Who should pick what
Both VPNs cover the basics well. ExpressVPN is the stronger pick for streaming, while Mullvad makes more sense if you need speed. When in doubt, check our VPN quiz for a personalised recommendation.
Want to compare all VPNs side by side? Check our full VPN comparison table with scores across 18 criteria.
Mullvad wins this comparison (4.2/5 vs 3.7/5). It leads on transparency and offers strong value overall. ExpressVPN is worth considering if streaming is your priority. Try Mullvad with their money-back guarantee.
For more context, check our full VPN comparison table or the best VPN for streaming guide. Read our full ExpressVPN review for a complete breakdown. See our Mullvad review for more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on our 2026 data: Mullvad (4.2/5) outscores ExpressVPN (3.7/5) overall. Choose Mullvad for speed, or ExpressVPN if you need streaming. Still unsure? Take our [VPN quiz](/) for a personalised recommendation.
ExpressVPN: Audited no-logs policy (score: 3/5). Mullvad: Audited no-logs policy (score: 4/5). See our [comparison table](/compare) for full audit details.
Obfuscation support and firewall conditions change frequently. Check our [best VPN for China guide](/blog/best-vpn-china-2026/) for up-to-date information on which VPNs reliably bypass the Great Firewall.