Proton VPN vs ExpressVPN: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Proton VPN and ExpressVPN comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Proton VPN
Privacy-focused VPN by Proton
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need security features specifically
- • Swiss-based VPN with strict no-logs policy verified by independent audit and 17,300+ servers in 127 countries
- • Secure Core routes traffic through hardened data centers in Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden
ExpressVPN
Premium VPN service
Best for you if:
- • You need encryption features specifically
- • Premium VPN with 3,000+ servers, Lightway protocol, and post-quantum encryption.
- • Features split tunneling, kill switch, and reliable streaming service unblocking.
| At a Glance |  Proton VPN |  ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Security | Encryption |
Rating | 89/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Proton VPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 89 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | SecurityEncryption | EncryptionVPN |
How Proton VPN and ExpressVPN Compare
Proton VPN
Privacy-focused VPN by Proton
Free tier available · 89/100 score
ExpressVPN
Premium VPN service
Paid · 80/100 score
Proton VPN is a security tool. ExpressVPN is in encryption.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Proton VPN has a free tier. ExpressVPN is paid only.
Go with: Proton VPN
Want the highest-rated option?
Proton VPN: 89/100. ExpressVPN: 80/100.
Go with: Proton VPN
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Proton VPN
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Proton VPN is freemium. ExpressVPN is paid. Proton VPN lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Proton VPN is a security tool. ExpressVPN is in encryption. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Proton VPN scores higher: 89/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Proton VPN
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
ExpressVPN
- Better fit for encryption
The Bottom Line
Proton VPN (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Proton VPN or ExpressVPN better?
Proton VPN scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Proton VPN is freemium and ExpressVPN is paid.
What are Proton VPN and ExpressVPN used for?
Proton VPN: Privacy-focused VPN by Proton. ExpressVPN: Premium VPN service.
What does Proton VPN cost vs ExpressVPN?
Proton VPN is freemium (free tier + paid plans). ExpressVPN is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.