ExpressVPN scores 3.7/5 overall in our tests, against 3.7/5 for Private Internet Access. The scores are close, so the right pick comes down to priorities.
| Criteria | ExpressVPN | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.7/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Jurisdiction | British Virgin Islands | USA |
| 14-Eyes / 5-Eyes | No | Five |
| No-logs policy | Audited 3/5 | Not audited 4/5 ★ |
| Speed score | 5/5 ★ | 4/5 |
| Protocols score | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Streaming score | 5/5 ★ | 3.5/5 |
| Leak protection | 1/5 | 5/5 ★ |
| RAM-only servers | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Encryption score | 5/5 ★ | 2/5 |
| Security subtotal | 3.8/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Trust subtotal | 2.7/5 ★ | 2.0/5 |
| Price (monthly) | $12.99/mo | $11.95/mo |
| Price (1-year total) | $59.88/yr | $39.95/yr |
| Price (2-year total) | $83.76/yr | $52.56/yr |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes, 30 days | Yes, 30 days |
| Pricing score | 3.5/5 | 4.0/5 ★ |
Where ExpressVPN wins
Where ExpressVPN pulls ahead: speed (5/5 vs 4/5), streaming (5/5 vs 3.5/5), transparency and trust (2.7/5 vs 2.0/5). If those criteria matter most to you, ExpressVPN is the stronger pick.
Where Private Internet Access wins
Private Internet Access’s strongest argument is value for money (4.0/5 vs 3.5/5). It also leads on features (4.3/5 vs 3.4/5).
Who should pick what
Both VPNs cover the basics well. ExpressVPN is the stronger pick for streaming, while Private Internet Access makes more sense if you need features. 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.
Tie: ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access score equally (3.7/5). The right choice depends on priorities: ExpressVPN for streaming, Private Internet Access for features. Use our VPN quiz to find your best match.
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 Private Internet Access review for more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
ExpressVPN is the better streaming option, with a 5/5 streaming score. Both VPNs support Netflix, Disney+ and BBC iPlayer.
ExpressVPN scores higher on security (3.8/5). ExpressVPN is based in British Virgin Islands (Audited), Private Internet Access in USA (Not audited).
Our pricing score gives ExpressVPN 3.5/5 and Private Internet Access 4.0/5. ExpressVPN is $12.99/mo monthly or $59.88/yr per year. Private Internet Access is $11.95/mo monthly or $39.95/yr per year. Both include a money-back guarantee.