Comparison of Private Internet Access (PIA) and ExpressVPN (2024): Which VPN is Superior?
Both Private Internet Access VPN and ExpressVPN have been among the speediest VPNs I’ve examined thus far. Given their exceptional VPN speeds, it might be a challenge to determine which option is ideal for you and your enterprise.
Fortunately, each VPN service offers distinct advantages that set them apart. Private Internet Access VPN stands out for its excellent value, featuring cost-effective premium subscriptions and support for multiple devices. Conversely, ExpressVPN places emphasis on providing a seamless and trustworthy user interface, albeit at a higher price point.
In this post, we aim to assess the most suitable VPN for your needs and those of your organization.
- Private Internet Access: Optimal for startups and individuals conscious of their budget seeking swift VPN speeds and the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices affordably.
- ExpressVPN: Suited for small to medium-sized businesses in search of a well-crafted and user-centric VPN software that delivers rapid and dependable speeds.
Comparison between Private Internet Access VPN and ExpressVPN
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Private Internet Access VPN vs ExpressVPN: Pricing
Both PIA VPN and ExpressVPN provide three subscription levels that differ based on the chosen contract duration. In my opinion, I appreciate this method as it streamlines the purchasing process compared to other VPN services that segment their plans according to the variety of features in a specific tier.
Private Internet Access VPN pricing
PIA VPN offers three packages: a one-month, an annual, and a three-year subscription. All these subscription options offer the same set of features, with the sole distinction being the final duration of the contract.
- 1 month: $11.95 per month.
- 1 year: $3.33 per month.
- 3 years: $2.03 per month.
Regrettably, PIA VPN does not have a no-cost version. Nevertheless, it does present a complimentary trial through its mobile app. Fortunately, you can access PIA VPN on your computer after availing the free trial via either Android or iOS. Additionally, I’m pleased to inform you that this trial does not demand any payment or credit card specifics for entry.
For more insights, peruse our detailed Private Internet Access VPN evaluation.
ExpressVPN pricing
ExpressVPN features three plans: a monthly, a six-month, and a yearly subscription. Similar to PIA VPN, all these plan alternatives offer an equivalent feature set.
- 1 month: $12.95 per month.
- 6 months: $9.99 per month.
- 1 year: $8.32 per month.
Currently, ExpressVPN does not provide a dedicated free version. Instead, it extends a comparable 7-day free trial accessible via its Android or iOS mobile app. Nevertheless, one notable difference from PIA’s trial is that to access ExpressVPN’s trial, payment information is a requisite.
PERUSE: NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: Which Virtual Private Network Reigns Supreme? (TechRepublic)
To clarify, the trial is without charge and ExpressVPN will only charge you post the 7-day period. However, if you desire a trial that doesn’t necessitate providing any payment particulars, PIA VPN emerges as the superior selection.
For a deeper understanding, delve into our complete ExpressVPN analysis.
Private Internet Access VPN vs ExpressVPN: Feature comparison
Security protocols and encryption
Victor: Draw
Concerning security protocols and encryption, both PIA VPN and ExpressVPN come out as winners. Both platforms present security protocols crafted for both security and velocity.
PIA VPN allows users to opt between OpenVPN and WireGuard, whereas ExpressVPN provides OpenVPN and its proprietary Lightway protocol. ExpressVPN claims that Lightway is designed to deliver a swift and secure VPN experience.
In my view, having OpenVPN for security and either WireGuard or Lightway for speed creates a commendable equilibrium in a modern VPN service. I’m gratified that PIA and ExpressVPN did not compromise in this aspect.
READ: How to Initiate a Career in Cybersecurity (TechRepublic Premium)
A matching scenario unfolds in the domain of encryption, as both PIA VPN and ExpressVPN utilize the AES-256 encryption algorithm, widely known for its imperviousness. In this day and age, I almost consider AES encryption as obligatory since it’s highly regarded as one of the toughest encryption algorithms today, utilized by entities like the U.S. government and financial institutions to safeguard their data.
Virtual Private Network server network and locations
Victor: ExpressVPN
Upon scrutinizing the server networks of both VPN services, I award ExpressVPN the victory due to its more extensive geographic coverage in comparison to PIA VPN. As of July 2024, ExpressVPN’s server network encompasses servers from 105 nations, with a reported fleet of over 3,000 servers.
Conversely, PIA VPN’s server array includes VPN servers from a respectable tally of 91 countries. While PIA doesn’t explicitly disclose its server count, reports estimate it to range between 10,000 to 35,000 servers.
Although having a substantial count of servers might appear advantageous, I find more merit in ExpressVPN’s broader geographic distribution.
With servers spanning 105 countries, individuals and enterprises will have a wider and more varied range of locations to pick from in comparison to PIA VPN’s 91-country suite. This will be especially advantageous for companies whose primary objective with a VPN is to unlock geo-restricted content.
External inspections and historical performance
Victor: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN’s noteworthy and continual external audits position it as the victor in terms of third-party testing and past performance. As of May 2024, the VPN has been through an impressive 18 independent audits, with the most recent one focusing on testing its Privacy Policy assertions.
This is not to diminish PIA VPN’s audit endeavors, as it too has undergone substantial third-party assessments for its service. Its latest audit was published in April 2024, where Deloitte inspected PIA VPN’s server network and management systems. They also routinely release Transparency Reports containing information on court orders or data inquiries received by its legal department.
Whether you opt for PIA VPN or ExpressVPN, you can trust that you’re using a secure and validated VPN. However, solely considering which provider has undergone more audits over a longer timeframe, ExpressVPN emerges as the preferable choice in this aspect.
Speed and Performance
Champion: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN holds a slight edge over PIA VPN in terms of speed and overall performance. Based on my assessments, ExpressVPN consistently delivered faster speeds and provided a smoother application experience.
During my evaluation of both VPNs, I operated with my typical workflow as a writer, involving multiple open tabs for research, utilizing Google Workspace tools like Docs and Drive, participating in online video meetings, and streaming occasional 4k YouTube content.
VPN-focused security attributes such as network automation, which automatically establishes a connection to the VPN after specific conditions are fulfilled; multi-hop functionality, which directs user traffic through two distinct servers; and concealed servers, which disguise the fact that a VPN is being used.
Although not a distinct feature, PIA VPN’s applications are open-source as well. This implies that its source code is publicly accessible for scrutiny — a positive aspect for enterprises that prioritize transparency and privacy in the software they utilize.
Additionally, the option is provided to acquire PIA VPN’s antivirus and dedicated IP services as supplements to your VPN subscription. While it would have been preferable for them to be combined, it’s excellent that we have this alternative for users seeking additional security capabilities under the current VPN plan.
On the contrary, a standout aspect of ExpressVPN’s security elements is its TrustedServer RAM-only server technology, which guarantees that user data is erased at every restart and isn’t stored on company hard disks. It also includes ExpressVPN Keys — its proprietary password manager that is bundled with any ExpressVPN subscription. This is a neat addition, especially if your company has yet to implement a password management solution.
Both VPNs offer standard VPN functions, including split tunneling, kill switch, and integrated ad/tracker/malware blockers. While having an exclusive password manager is appealing, I find that PIA VPN’s open-source software and VPN-specific characteristics give it the upper hand in this comparison.
Ease of use and design
Winner: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN leads the pack in terms of ease of use and design. From a subjective viewpoint, I believe ExpressVPN achieves the finest balance of design and user-friendliness among VPN applications currently available.
It features a substantial power buttonas your Power button, a straightforward roster where you can spot your servers and a configuration menu that’s orderly arranged for quick access to functions. The layout also exudes a contemporary vibe without compromising overall effectiveness.
One standout feature for me is how ExpressVPN’s browser extension takes on the role of a remote control for the desktop application. This contributes to the high level of sophistication and user-friendliness that ExpressVPN offers.
PIA VPN’s interface has its own strengths too. PIA VPN’s desktop and browser apps are customizable, empowering users to pin their most utilized VPN features at the top.
As an experimenter, I value PIA VPN providing users this level of authority over their VPN experience. The application itself is also relatively user-friendly and lacks any obvious drawbacks from a design perspective.
Yet, when comparing both VPN applications side by side, it’s evident that ExpressVPN boasts a more refined and sophisticated user interface than PIA VPN.
Concurrent device connections
Victor: Private Internet Access VPN
One significant edge PIA VPN holds over ExpressVPN is in terms of concurrent device connections, permitting an unrestricted number of devices as opposed to ExpressVPN’s maximum of eight connected devices at once.
This holds significance as most businesses prefer to avoid an extra subscription to safeguard multiple devices. It undeniably enhances PIA VPN’s value proposition, especially since it offers a more cost-effective annual plan compared to ExpressVPN’s equivalent subscription.
I also perceive that unlimited concurrent connections act as a convenient set-and-forget feature since PIA users won’t have to concern themselves with surpassing the maximum device limit when using the VPN.
Compatible platforms
Victor: ExpressVPN
In terms of official platform compatibility, ExpressVPN enjoys a slight upper hand over PIA VPN. ExpressVPN supports major platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Regarding browser compatibility, ExpressVPN boasts official browser extensions for Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Vivaldi, Chromium, and Brave browsers. Regrettably, there is currentlyExpressVPN does not have Safari support.
ExpressVPN also caters to less common platforms such as Chromebooks, the Amazon Fire tablet, Amazon Fire Stick and Fire TV, Apple TV, Google TV, and Android TV. Additionally, you have the option to manually set up ExpressVPN for routers and media and gaming consoles like older generation Apple TVs, the Nintendo Switch, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Playstation 3, PS4, and PS5.
On the other hand, PIA VPN supports various platforms itself, providing official apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It is also compatible with routers, Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick, Android TVs, PS4, PS5, Xbox, and the Nintendo Switch.
Official browser functionality is a weak point for PIA VPN, which currently only offers apps for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. Although VPN support varies case by case, ExpressVPN has a slight edge in terms of overall platform compatibility.
Value for money
Champion: Private Internet Access VPN
When it comes to value for money, PIA VPN excels with its more budget-friendly pricing across all subscription tiers. Comparing the base annual plans of both VPNs, ExpressVPN’s $8.32 per month is over two times the cost of PIA VPN’s $3.33 per month subscription. Over a year, this amounts to around $100 for ExpressVPN and just $40 for PIA VPN.
The monthly plan prices for both providers are closer, at $11.95 per month for PIA and $12.95 per month for ExpressVPN.
It is unusual that ExpressVPN only offers a one-year contract for its longest-term subscription. Normally, VPN services present a two-year or three-year plan with lower monthly fees to attract users with a more affordable price over a longer period. In this instance, only PIA provides a three-year plan at $2.03 per month, or slightly above $24 annually.
While ExpressVPN tries to justify its higher cost with its sophisticated application and extensive server network, PIA VPN’s considerably lower pricing stands out as a significant advantage.
Notably, the advantage with PIA VPN is the option of unlimited simultaneous device connections. For $3.33 per month, users can connect all their laptops, smartphones, and other devices to a PIA VPN server without concern for exceeding a maximum device limit.
Private Internet Access VPN pros and cons
Advantages
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections.
- Customizable VPN application.
- 7-day free trial on mobile without requiring payment information.
Disadvantages
- WireGuard protocol may have bugs at times.
- No free version available.
ExpressVPN pros and cons
Pros
- Polished and refined user interface.
- Server network spanning 105 countries.
- Consistent and trustworthy VPN speeds.
Cons
- Expensive annual subscription.
- Maximum of 8 simultaneous device connections allowed.
- Lack of more cost-effective, long-term subscription options.
Should your organization opt for Private Internet Access VPN or ExpressVPN?
Following a rigorous comparison, ExpressVPN emerges as the victor in this showdown. With its extensive server network covering 105 countries, reliable high-speed VPN connections, and sleek desktop interface, most businesses or users opting for ExpressVPN are likely to be satisfied customers.
Combined with its notable portfolio of independent audits and broad support for multiple operating systems, ExpressVPN presents a top-tier VPN solution that justifies its price.
ExpressVPN is suitable for small to medium-sized businesses seeking a straightforward VPN experience with a user-friendly interface and consistent performance.
However, this doesn’t undermine the value of PIA VPN — quite the opposite. PIA VPN offers great value with its robust server fleet spanning 91 countries, customizable application, and open-source software.
PIA VPN is best suited for startups, small teams, and budget-conscious users looking for a cost-effective VPN that accommodates multiple devices while maintaining high-speed connections.
Methodology
The evaluation of Private Internet Access VPN and ExpressVPN involved a comprehensive analysis of both VPNs’ features, overall value, and real-world performance.
To assess each VPN, scoring was based on factors such as server networks, pricing, core features, ease of use, customer support, and expert analysis, with varying weights assigned to each aspect.
If you want more detailed insights, refer to our complete VPN Review Methodology.
Additionally, user feedback was taken into consideration to provide final recommendations for Private Internet Access VPN and ExpressVPN.
For speed and performance evaluation, both VPNs were tested on a personal Windows laptop and underwent Ookla’s public Speedtest. Ultimately, the assessment aimed to determine which types of businesses or users would benefit most from either Private Internet Access VPN or ExpressVPN.
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