We tested ExpressVPN (3.7/5) and PrivadoVPN (2.7/5) across speed, privacy, streaming, and price. ExpressVPN leads on overall score. Here is what drives the gap.

CriteriaExpressVPNPrivadoVPN
Overall score3.7/5 ★2.7/5
JurisdictionBritish Virgin IslandsSwitzerland
14-Eyes / 5-EyesNoNo
No-logs policyAudited 3/5 ★Not audited 2/5
Speed score5/5 ★3/5
Protocols score5/55/5
Streaming score5/5 ★3.5/5
Leak protection1/55/5 ★
RAM-only servers5/5 ★0/5
Encryption score5/5 ★3/5
Security subtotal3.8/5 ★3.0/5
Trust subtotal2.7/5 ★1.7/5
Price (monthly)$12.99/mo$10.99/mo
Price (1-year total)$59.88/yr$15.96/yr
Price (2-year total)$83.76/yr$30.00/yr
Money-back guaranteeYes, 30 daysYes, 30 days
Pricing score3.5/53.5/5

Where ExpressVPN wins

ExpressVPN leads on speed (5/5 vs 3/5), privacy and security (3.8/5 vs 3.0/5). Add streaming (5/5 vs 3.5/5) to the list and it becomes a clear recommendation.

Where PrivadoVPN wins

PrivadoVPN does not outscore ExpressVPN on individual criteria. At 2.7/5, it remains a solid option with consistent performance.

Who should pick what

The simplest rule: ExpressVPN is the default recommendation based on overall scores. The only reason to choose PrivadoVPN instead is if streaming is critical for your use case.

Want to compare all VPNs side by side? Check our full VPN comparison table with scores across 18 criteria.

Our verdict

For most users, ExpressVPN (3.7/5) is the better pick. Its advantage over PrivadoVPN (2.7/5) comes from stronger speed performance. The only reason to go with PrivadoVPN is if streaming matters most to you. Get ExpressVPN risk-free.

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 PrivadoVPN review for more detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, ExpressVPN or PrivadoVPN?

ExpressVPN scores 3.7/5 vs 2.7/5 for PrivadoVPN. ExpressVPN leads on streaming. That said, PrivadoVPN may be the better fit if streaming is your main priority.

Is ExpressVPN faster than PrivadoVPN?

In our speed tests, ExpressVPN scores 5/5 and PrivadoVPN scores 3/5. ExpressVPN has the edge in our data, though real-world results vary by server and location.

Which is cheaper, ExpressVPN or PrivadoVPN?

ExpressVPN costs $12.99/mo month-to-month, or $59.88/yr for a 1-year plan. PrivadoVPN is $10.99/mo monthly, or $15.96/yr per year. Both offer a money-back guarantee.