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Best for Streaming and VPN Beginners
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Hides intrusive display ads when browsing the web, improving page speed and easing data usage on mobile
Privacy and safety benefits of a VPN with best-in-class encryption and innovative server technology in 105 countries
Enjoy no activity logs, malicious sites and trackers protection, and more on up to 8 devices
Best for High-Censorship Countries
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High-speed VPN servers
Robust encryption
With a large number of virtual private network (VPN) services available, it can often be difficult to choose the right one. ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN both stand out as some of the best VPN providers, but which is better?
ExpressVPN is known for exceptional speed, seamless server connections, and a robust security framework. Astrill VPN offers an array of unique features and is reliable in countries with high internet restrictions, such as China.
In this article, we’ll take a look at ExpressVPN vs. Astrill VPN to compare their costs, features, and compatibility and help you make an informed decision.
ExpressVPN is a great choice if you want a blend of speed, security, and simplicity while browsing the internet. It has a user-friendly interface, an abundance of VPN server locations, and exceptional streaming capabilities, making it ideal for both VPN newcomers and avid streamers.
On the other hand, Astrill VPN stands out with its advanced customization options and reliable performance in high-censorship countries.
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| Price | $4.99–$12.95/mo | $12.50–$30.00/mo |
| Max # of connected devices | 8 | 5 |
| 24/7 customer support | ||
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers |
| # of server countries | 105 countries | 56 countries |
| VPN protocol | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | OpenWeb, StealthVPN, OpenVPN, WireGuard |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | ||
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN | Get Astrill VPN |
We complete standardized hands-on tests for each VPN we review so we can put their claims to the test. This includes vigorous third-party testing by comparing our internet speed while connected to different servers, checking for DNS leaks, making sure the kill switch actually works, and more. We also make sure we can comfortably access popular streaming sites, like Netflix, and still do our day-to-day work without interruption.
Once we’ve completed the testing, our editorial rating is calculated by taking into account key features you’d expect from a good product. We score each VPN in the following categories and use a weighted average to calculate the final rating out of 5 stars: price, server count, speed, security, and features.
To learn more about how we test, check out our full VPN methodology here.
Compared to Astrill VPN, ExpressVPN has lower prices across the board, plus a money-back guarantee.
Our Pick
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| Price range | $4.99–$12.95/mo | $12.50–$30.00/mo |
| Best value plan | 12-month plan for $6.25/mo (billed annually) | 2-year plan for $12.50/mo (billed annually) |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 30 days | |
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN | Get Astrill VPN |
ExpressVPN offers a lower monthly subscription than Astrill VPN. Its plans range from $6.25/mo (billed annually) for 12 months to $12.95/mo for a monthly plan.
Astrill VPN is much pricier, with its cheapest subscription starting at $12.50/mo (billed annually) for a two-year commitment. It also has an annual plan for $15.00/mo (billed annually) and a month-by-month plan for $30.00/mo.
ExpressVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free for a month. Astrill VPN doesn't offer a money-back guarantee, which might deter some due to the higher commitment involved. Astrill does offer a seven-day free trial, but you'll probably have to go through customer support to get it.
The payment options provided by a VPN are crucial, as it directly affects your convenience and, in certain situations, privacy. ExpressVPN offers multiple payment options, including credit cards, prepaid debit cards, PayPal, and even cryptocurrencies like bitcoin. These choices provide a blend of convenience and privacy, with cryptocurrencies allowing for anonymous payments.
Astrill VPN also boasts a range of payment options. These include credit and debit cards, PayPal, Perfect Money, and bitcoin. Additionally, they offer options catering to specific regional preferences, such as WeChat Pay and AliPay.
ExpressVPN maintained solid download speeds with every server location, while Astrill VPN dropped our speeds by an average of 48%.
| Server location | Our Pick
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| US | 4% faster | 38% slower |
| CA | 7% faster | 48% slower |
| UK | 10% faster | 62% slower |
| AU | 3% faster | 42% slower |
| Get ExpressVPN | Get Astrill VPN |
When using a VPN, internet speed is a significant factor that can greatly impact your online experience, especially if you're streaming, gaming, or downloading large files. That's why we conduct speed tests on all the VPNs we review.
First, we measure our baseline internet speed, meaning our internet speed with no VPN connection. Then, we connect to servers in various locations and calculate how much it impacted our baseline speed.
ExpressVPN consistently outperformed Astrill VPN across all server locations, providing a more stable and fast internet experience. It was slightly faster than our baseline speed, so we didn't have to work about the service dragging us down with lag or buffering.
Astrill VPN slowed our download speeds by an average of 48%, with the biggest slow down occuring while connected to a U.K. server. Server locations that are further from your physical location tend to have a larger impact on your speed because the data will have to travel a longer distance.
ExpressVPN has a more secure service due to its larger server network and audited no-logs policy.
| Feature | Our Pick
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| Number of servers | Unlisted in 105 countries | Unlisted in 56 countries |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| VPN headquarters | British Virgin Islands | Seychelles |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| VPN protocol | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | OpenWeb, StealthVPN, OpenVPN, WireGuard |
| Kill switch | ||
| Split tunneling | ||
| DNS leak protection | ||
| Ad blocker | ||
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN | Get Astrill VPN |
ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN don't list their server counts. However, ExpressVPN appears to boast a significantly larger network with servers spread across 105 countries, while Astrill's is spread across 56 countries.
Both VPN providers have a no-logs policy, which affirms that they don't collect or store user activity data. ExpressVPN's no-logs policy has been independently audited by KPMG, adding an extra layer of trustworthiness. To date, it appears Astrill VPN has yet to run an international audit on its no-logs policy.
When it comes to security, both use AES-256 encryption, widely regarded as the gold standard for data encryption. They also both provide a kill switch, which prevents data leaks by automatically cutting off internet access if the VPN connection drops.
In terms of protocols, ExpressVPN offers Lightway, its own custom-built protocol designed for speed and security, among other standards like OpenVPN and IKEv2.
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Astrill VPN offers an assortment of protocols as well, including StealthVPN, which is designed for bypassing firewalls in highly censored countries like China.
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ExpressVPN offers more compatibility options and a more beginner-friendly interface compared to Astrill VPN.
Our Pick
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| Windows | ||
| macOS | ||
| Android | ||
| iOS | ||
| Linux | ||
| Router | ||
| Smart devices | ||
| Browser extensions | Chrome, Firefox, Edge | |
| 24/7 support | ||
| Customer support options | Live chat, email, online guides | Live chat, email, online guides |
| Learn more | Get ExpressVPN | Get Astrill VPN |
ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN offer comprehensive support for a wide range of devices and operating systems. This includes Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers.
However, ExpressVPN also provides browser extensions. Its smart device compatibility includes Fire TV Sticks, Samsung Smart TVs, Android TVs, and more, while Astrill VPN only covers Fire TV Sticls.
ExpressVPN also distinguishes itself with an easy-to-use interface. The settings are easy to find, and the program is simple to use, even for inexperienced users.
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Alternatively, Astrill VPN offers a more complex interface that may appeal to expert users but might be intimidating for newcomers. Although the settings are well-organized, the look might be simpler and more contemporary.
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As far as customer support, ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN excel with a comprehensive suite of assistance tools. Both services offer 24/7 live chat, email support, and online guides.
During our interactions, ExpressVPN's support team proved prompt, knowledgeable, and helpful, resolving queries quickly and effectively. Astrill VPN also offers a solid support experience, with responsive live chat and detailed online guides.
Yes, ExpressVPN is known to work reliably in China and is listed as one of our top VPNs for China. To circumvent the Great Firewall, it has features like obfuscated servers and its proprietary Lightway protocol.
According to its FAQs, Astrill VPN offers a seven-day free trial, but you may need to request it from customer support.
Lightway is ExpressVPN's proprietary VPN protocol, designed to deliver superior speed, security, and reliability. The protocol aims to offer a seamless user experience by being lightweight and quick to connect.
Because of its dependability, Astrill VPN is an excellent choice for use in China. It contains significant features that allow it to perform successfully, such as Stealth VPN and Smart Mode.
Ultimately, ExpressVPN comes out as the best VPN of the two due to its bigger server network, wider device compatibility, and audited no-logs policy. Its service is significantly more comprehensive, which justifies its price and makes it the superior pick between the two.
Astrill VPN still provides a decent VPN service, but it comes at a higher price and with fewer server locations than ExpressVPN. But its StealthVPN technology can help you circumvent censorship.
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Hides intrusive display ads when browsing the web, improving page speed and easing data usage on mobile
Privacy and safety benefits of a VPN with best-in-class encryption and innovative server technology in 105 countries
Enjoy no activity logs, malicious sites and trackers protection, and more on up to 8 devices
ExpressVPN and AstrillVPN are some of the most expensive services available, but that doesn't mean you'll always have to pay that price for a VPN. Take a look at our recommended alternatives with lower starting prices:
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| Price | $2.99–$17.99/mo | $1.99–$17.95/mo | $2.03–$6.99/mo |
| Max # of connected devices | 10 | Unlimited | 7 |
| # of servers | 6,800+ servers in 111 countries | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | Unlisted in 100 countries |
| VPN protocol | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | OpenVPN, IKEv2. WireGuard |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES-256-GCM | AES-256 |
| No-logs policy | |||
| Headquarters | Panama | The Netherlands | Romania |
| Netflix access | |||
| Learn more | Get NordVPN | Get Surfshark | Get CyberGhost |
Hides intrusive display ads when browsing the web, improving page speed and easing data usage on mobile
Privacy and safety benefits of a VPN with best-in-class encryption and innovative server technology in 105 countries
Enjoy no activity logs, malicious sites and trackers protection, and more on up to 8 devices
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