WireGuard vs ExpressVPN: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between WireGuard 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:
WireGuard
Fast and modern VPN protocol
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • WireGuard is a fast, modern VPN protocol for secure networking
- • It provides simpler, more performant tunnels than IPsec or OpenVPN
ExpressVPN
Premium VPN service
Best for you if:
- • 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 |  WireGuard |  ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Encryption | Encryption |
Rating | 90/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | WireGuard | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | EncryptionVPN | EncryptionVPN |
How WireGuard and ExpressVPN Compare
WireGuard
Fast and modern VPN protocol
Free · 90/100 score
ExpressVPN
Premium VPN service
Paid · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
WireGuard is free. ExpressVPN is paid.
Go with: WireGuard
Want the highest-rated option?
WireGuard: 90/100. ExpressVPN: 80/100.
Go with: WireGuard
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: WireGuard
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
WireGuard is free. ExpressVPN is paid. Go with WireGuard if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are encryption tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
WireGuard scores higher: 90/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
WireGuard
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 80
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
ExpressVPN
The Bottom Line
WireGuard (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WireGuard or ExpressVPN better?
WireGuard scores 90/100 in our evaluation. WireGuard is free and ExpressVPN is paid.
What are WireGuard and ExpressVPN used for?
WireGuard: Fast and modern VPN protocol. ExpressVPN: Premium VPN service.
What does WireGuard cost vs ExpressVPN?
WireGuard is completely free. ExpressVPN is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.