Last updated on January 28th, 2024 at 03:20 am
Choosing between ExpressVPN vs PIA VPN? Although PIA VPN is known for its solid security features and support for torrenting, ExpressVPN surpasses it by offering advanced leak protection, consistent server performance, and a more intuitive user interface, thereby making it an excellent option for both beginners and seasoned VPN users who prioritize ease of use and stability.
This guide a toe to toe review of 2 of the best VPNs on the internet today – PIA vs ExpressVPN. Which VPN should you choose to help you secure your browsing on the internet?
In this article, we compare ExpressVPN vs PIA VPN: their Top VPN features, VPN Pricing, Pros and Cons, and our VPN of choice between PIA VPN vs ExpressVPN.
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First, What Really is a VPN – ExpressVPN vs PIA VPN (Pia vs ExpressVPN)
First, Let’s talk about VPNs. In simple terms, VPN means a “virtual private network“. When a VPN is running on your computer, your IP address (your computer’s address while browsing the internet) is hidden and protected, so no one can track the activities you’re doing while browsing.
And no, this doesn’t mean VPN is only for those who have “something to hide”. Nowadays, hackers and other people or apps are tracking our actions over the internet without our approval. The danger of being tracked is heightened when you are using public wifi.
Think about airports, transport stations, coffee shops, and malls – anywhere you have free wifi access. Your internet activity is even more insecure in these situations.
This is why having a VPN installed and running on your devices is very important.
Comparing ExpressVPN vs PIA VPN (PIA vs ExpressVPN Compared)
While PIA VPN is respected for its robust encryption protocols and great value for money, ExpressVPN often outshines it due to its exceptional speeds, larger server network spanning 94 countries, and better unblocking capabilities for geo-restricted content like Netflix, making it a preferred choice for streamers and those needing high-speed connections.
In addition, while PIA VPN is known for its generous device support and customizable encryption, ExpressVPN takes the lead with its superior 24/7 customer support, audited no-log policy, and compatibility with a wide range of platforms, thus providing an added level of trust and versatility for users who need constant support and cross-platform functionality.
ExpressVPN Top Features
Best-in-class 256-bit encryption
ExpressVPN connects your devices to the internet in a secure encrypted line to make sure that your activity is protected and untraced, removing you away from unwanted trackers.
Unlimited bandwidth – ExpressVPN vs PIA VPN
There is no limit to how much you can connect to the internet while connected to VPN. That means you can stream all you want, download all you want and not worry about getting disconnected to the VPN or getting your connection unprotected.
24/7 customer support (PIA vs ExpressVPN)
ExpressVPN offers 24/7 support via live chat or email which can give you support for any of your VPN needs and questions any time, anywhere.
One subscription 5 devices Simultaneously Protected
One of the best things about ExpressVPN is that with one subscription, you can use it on up to 5 devices simultaneously – that’s a lot of value packed into a really good VPN service!
Multiplatform Support
ExpressVPN has one of the largest supports across multiple platforms that connect to the internet – from your mobile devices even for your smart TV’s.
What are all the platforms that ExpressVPN supports: Windows, macOS, and Linux computers, Chromebook, Android and iOS mobile devices, internet routers and Kindle Fire. For browsers, ExpressVPN supports Google Chrome, Safari Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. For Smart TV, ExpressVPN supports smart tvs, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung TV, Roku, Chromecast, Nvidia Shield and Android TV. ExpressVPNs also support gaming consoles – Playstation, Xbox, and Nintendo!
Now how’s that for multiple platform support?
30-day money-back guarantee
Try and experience ExpressVPN with no strings attached for 30-days. ExpressVPN doesn’t offer a FREE VPN but you can utilize 30-day money back guarantee to test it all you want.
PIA VPN Top Features
Open Source
PIA VPN or Private Internet Access VPN is Open Source. This means any developer or anyone can check how PIA is created – all open access with nothing to hide.
No Logs
PIA or Private Internet Access VPN doesn’t retain any logs of your actions, nothing is stored in their system, everything is private and encrypted.
Unlimited Bandwidth
There is no limit to the internet activities you can do, while connected to VPN. Browse, stream and download all you want, and stay in a private, untracked connection all the time.
AdBlocker and No Trackers and No Malware
PIA VPN has adblockers, makes sure there are no internet trackers that can track you, and protects your computer from any malware.
24/7 Live Support
24/7 live support is available with PIA VPN so whatever questions and support you need, you can get it. 24/7.
Advanced Split Tunneling
Advanced Split Tunneling allows you to be connected to the internet and supported by a VPN, and puts some sites in exception. Let’s put an example here. If your router or your whole computer is connected to the VPN, a site let’s say Youtube or a Bank site can be inaccessible or slow. You can add it to the exemptions so you can access particular sites outside VPN, while at the same time still running it for the whole computer.
VPN Pricing: ExpressVPN vs PIA VPN (PIA vs ExpressVPN)
ExpressVPN Pricing
ExpressVPN really is a fully-packed VPN software however you’ll pay a premium for this. The cheapest plan is $8.32/month for a one-year plan with ExpressVPN. If you want to sign up for 6 months, then it’s $9.99/month. If you want to go per month, then that would be $12.95/per month.
We think that the biggest reason for the much higher price than most VPN software is that any plan with ExpressVPN gives you access to their Password Manager.
A password manager is something you can install on your computer or as an extension to your browser, and you don’t have to memorize any passwords anymore.
Most password managers don’t store your password meaning it’s encrypted so they won’t have a list of your passwords in sight, everything is still encrypted and secured.
PIA VPN Pricing – Private Internet Access VPN
Private Internet Access VPN offers really good pricing for their VPN plans. The best price is the $2.03/month for 3 years, plus 3 months free. Yes it’s a long plan, however usually having a VPN is something you might want to have for a longer time, if not all the time, so it’s definitely a good and affordable investment.
If you only want to go for a year, it’s $3.33/month although the monthly option sets you back at $11.95/month. All plans give you a 30-day money back guarantee.
ExpressVPN vs PIA VPN: Pros and Cons
ExpressVPN Pros
The biggest pro of ExpressVPN is how amazing all the features it has are. Multiple platform support and strongly encrypted connections with unlimited bandwidth. You even get a password manager for any plan, which is something we ourselves use (as someone who works online, a password manager is a must-have).
ExpressVPN Cons
The only con we see is the high price tag of ExpressVPN. Compared to a lot of VPN software they do charge a premium. This may be because, with the password manager, you’re almost getting 2 very valuable services all in one.
PIA VPN Pros
Being an open source software definitely gives Private Internet Access VPN a more trustworthy vibe. We love it about them. The pricing is really good and it’s definitely a fully-packed VPN software.
PIA VPN Cons
We only see one CON which is the zero offer of a free plan which other VPNs offer like Atlas and Proton – safe VPNs are definitely safe to use.
Verdict: Winner – ExpressVPN
We are currently running a super-exclusive deal with ExpressVPN with a one-year plan at $6.67/month, plus 3-months free. This is a super deal. ExpressVPN plans include the ExpressVPN Keys, a password manager app – another top tool online that we think everyone needs.
Hope that helps and let us know PIA VPN vs ExpressVPN if you have any questions. Happy browsing!
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.