ExpressVPN vs PIA: Why is PureVPN a Better Alternative?

Gear up for an intense VPN showdown: PIA vs ExpressVPN. Amidst this clash, a new contender enters the ring  – PureVPN.

In our exploration of these three options, you will uncover the distinct strengths of each, leading you to the VPN service that best fits your requirements.

Speed – ExpressVPN Wins

Baseline speed: 1 Gbps

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Average download speeds	319 Mbps	345 Mbps	291 Mbps
Average upload speeds	272 Mbps	291 Mbps	256 Mbps

As ExpressVPN lacks WireGuard support, we conducted our speed test using the OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols. After establishing connections with servers in the US, UK, and Canada, we proceeded to measure the download and upload speeds of all three VPNs.

In terms of download speeds, ExpressVPN demonstrated an average of 345 Mbps, PureVPN held steady with an average of 319 Mbps, and Private Internet Access achieved an average speed of 291 Mbps.

Related Read: How to Increase VPN Speed

When it comes to upload speeds, ExpressVPN attained an average of 291 Mbps, PureVPN documented an average of 272 Mbps, and Private Internet Access delivered an average of 256 Mbps. It is important to bear in mind, however, that individual experiences may differ due to various factors.

Who tops this category? ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN service according to our tests, followed by PureVPN.

Server Locations – PureVPN Wins

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Servers	6,000+	3,000+	Undisclosed
Countries	65	90	84

ExpressVPN impresses with its network of 3000+ servers spanning 90 countries, providing a versatile solution for users to enjoy reliable and high-speed connections while accessing content from diverse regions worldwide.

Private Internet Access takes pride in its widespread coverage, offering servers in an impressive 84 countries. While the exact number remains undisclosed, their commitment to delivering a vast network ensures users can enjoy reliable and secure connections.

PureVPN stands strong with a staggering network of 6000+ servers spread across 65 countries, offering users a vast selection of global virtual locations for unmatched access to content and superior browsing speeds.

Who tops this category? In terms of sheer numbers, PureVPN ranks first. ExpressVPN is second, and PIA third.

Security – Three-way tie

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Encryption used	AES 256-bit	AES 256-bit	AES 256-bit
Protocol selection	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, IPSec	OpenVPN, IKEv2, Lightway	OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPSec
Private DNS	Yes	Yes	Yes
RAM-based servers	No	Yes	Yes
Quantum-resistant	Yes	No	No

ExpressVPN prioritizes security by implementing AES 256-bit encryption and offering protocol options like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Lightway. However, it does not have WireGuard as of yet. Furthermore, ExpressVPN uses its own DNS network and operates a RAM-based server infrastructure. 

Private Internet Access offers AES 256-bit encryption to safeguard user data from potential threats. Users can pick from OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IPSec as their desired protocol option. With a private DNS network and the use of RAM-based servers, it minimizes the risk of data exposure. 

PureVPN boasts robust security measures, employing AES 256-bit encryption. It lets you choose from a diverse range of protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and IPSec. While PureVPN uses its own network of DNS servers, it does not provide RAM-based servers. However, the VPN service is quantum-safe!

Who tops this category? PureVPN’s quantum-resistant encryption keys further enhance the security of your data, while ExpressVPN and PIA’s use of RAM-only servers provide peace of mind. It is a three-way tie for first!

Privacy – PureVPN Wins

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Base of operation	British Virgin Islands	British Virgin Islands	United States
Audited no-logs policy	Yes	Yes	Yes
Always on-audit	Yes	No	No

ExpressVPN is based in the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands, outside the reach of the 5/9/14 eyes alliances. It offers a PwC-audited no-logs policy, reinforcing its commitment to user privacy.

Private Internet Access operates from the USA, a part of the Five Eyes alliance, which raises privacy concerns for some users. However, PIA maintains an Deloitte-audited no-logs policy, assuring users that their online activities are not monitored or stored.

PureVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, ensuring a favorable privacy environment. It follows a Well known audit firm-audited no-logs policy, affirming that it does not retain user activity logs. What distinguishes PureVPN is its implementation of an always-on audit mechanism, providing an additional layer of transparency and accountability.

Who tops this category? PureVPN’s always-on audit structure gives it an edge over the competition.

Netflix and streaming performance – Tie between PureVPN and ExpressVPN

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Netflix	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hulu	Yes	Yes	No
Max	Yes	Yes	Yes
BBC iPlayer	Yes	Yes	No
Disney+	Yes	Yes	Yes

ExpressVPN boasts an impressive track record in unblocking streaming services, offering unrestricted access to Netflix, Hulu, Max, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. Its robust network ensures smooth and buffer-free streaming.

Private Internet Access shines in unlocking Netflix and Disney+, granting users access to a diverse range of shows and movies. While PIA doesn’t unblock Hulu or BBC iPlayer, its compatibility with Max offers an excellent option for streaming enthusiasts.

PureVPN boasts impressive unblocking capabilities, ensuring seamless access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. With a wide range of supported platforms, PureVPN lets users enjoy their favorite content without any geo-restrictions.

Who tops this category? Both PureVPN and ExpressVPN are excellent at unblocking geo-restricted content. 

Pricing – PureVPN Wins

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Monthly	Standard ($10.95), Plus ($16.95), Max ($20.95)	$12.95	$11.95
1-year	Standard ($3.74/month), Plus ($5.82/month), Max ($6.24/month)	$6.67/month	$3.33/month
2-year	Standard ($1.96/month), Plus ($3.21), Max ($3.85/month)	–	Standard ($3.75/month), Plus ($5.82/month), Max ($7.49/month)

ExpressVPN has a simplified pricing structure. They offer monthly subscriptions at a fixed rate and a 1-year plan at a discounted price. However, ExpressVPN does not provide a dedicated 2-year plan

The pricing structure of Private Internet Access is also straightforward, offering monthly and 1-year plans to choose from. While there is no 2-year plan, it does provide a 3-year plan as an alternative.

PureVPN follows a tier-based pricing structure. The tiers are categorized as Standard, Plus, and Max, having different features and pricing levels. Users can choose from monthly, 1-year, and 2-year plans within each tier.

Who tops this category? PureVPN offers a wide range of plans and is more affordable. PIA takes second.

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Features – PureVPN Wins

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Kill Switch	Yes	Yes	Yes
Split Tunneling	Yes	Yes	Yes
Obfuscation	Yes	Yes	Yes
DNS Leak Protection	Yes	Yes	Yes
IPv6 Leak Protection	Yes	Yes	Yes
Dedicated IP	Yes	Yes	Yes
Port Forwarding	Yes	No	No

ExpressVPN comes with a SmartDNS feature for easy access to geo-restricted content and a Threat Manager that acts as a DNS-based traffic blocker for added security. In addition, ExpressVPN provides a built-in password manager to help users manage their online credentials securely. 

Private Internet Access provides features like multi-hop to add an extra layer of encryption and MACE, which is an ad, tracker, and malware blocker. It also gives you access to an antivirus that scans, removes and destroys viruses from your system for an extra price.

PureVPN offers impressive features with its 20 Gbps servers, delivering fast and reliable connections, and VPN over Tor offering enhanced anonymity. Additionally, PureVPN also provides a range of bundled products like a  password manager (PureKeep), file encrypter (PureEncrypt), and privacy auditor (PurePrivacy), which can be purchased alongside the VPN service.

Who tops this category? PureVPN comes with an impressive feature set, including a port-forwarding option.

Compatibility – PIA Wins

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Available apps	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Huawei, Android TV, Fire Stick	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick
Browser extensions	Chrome, Firefox, Edge	Chrome, Firefox, Edge	Chrome, Firefox, Edge
Multi-logins	10	8	Unlimited

ExpressVPN is available on macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick, providing compatibility across various platforms. It offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Users can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously with ExpressVPN’s multi-login feature.

Private internet Access supports macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick. If you are interested in browser extensions, PIA covers Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Unlike PureVPN and ExpressVPN, it offers unlimited logins with a single account. 

PureVPN offers broad compatibility with easy-to-use apps for  macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Huawei, Android TV, and Fire Stick. It also provides browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Supporting up to 10 simultaneous multi-logins, PureVPN allows users to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

Who tops this category? PIA takes first due to its support for unlimited simultaneous connections.

Customer Support – Tie between PureVPN and ExpressVPN

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Live chat	Yes	Yes	Yes
Email	Yes	Yes	Yes
Knowledgebase	Yes	Yes	Yes
In-app support	Yes	Yes	No

ExpressVPN provides excellent customer support via live chat, email, and a knowledgebase. Users can quickly access help and guidance within the app, ensuring a seamless support experience.

Private Internet Access offers great customer support through channels like live chat, email, and a knowledgebase. However, it lacks in-app support, which gives users an additional means of seeking help and resolving issues quickly.

PureVPN offers robust customer support through live chat, email, and a knowledgebase. Users can conveniently seek assistance from within the app, making it easier to resolve any queries or concerns they may have.

Who tops this category? It is a tie between PureVPN and ExpressVPN for first.

P2P File Sharing – Tie between PureVPN and PIA

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
P2P-Friendly	Yes	Yes	Yes
P2P Support	Specialized P2P servers	All servers	All servers

Unlike some VPNs that limit P2P activities to certain servers, ExpressVPN offers universal P2P support across its entire network. This approach not only facilitates unrestricted file sharing but also ensures optimal performance, no matter which server you connect to.

PIA offers complete support for P2P file sharing on all its servers. Users can confidently engage in file transfers, benefiting from high-speed connections and the assurance that their activities remain private and protected. 

PureVPN provides specialized servers exclusively for peer-to-peer activities. These servers are tuned to handle large file transfers, ensuring users experience fast speeds and enhanced security during their P2P sessions.

Who tops this category? PureVPN and PIA are tied for first as they not only support P2P traffic, but also offer port forwarding. 

ExpressVPN vs PIA vs PureVPN – Which is the Best?

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Private Internet Access
Pricing	1st	3rd	2nd
Speed	2nd	1st	3rd
Server locations	1st	2nd	3rd
Security	`1st (Tie)	1st (Tie)	1st (Tie)
Privacy	1st	2nd	3rd
Unblocking	1st (Tie)	1st (Tie)	2nd
Features	1st	2nd	3rd
Compatibility	2nd	3rd	1st
Customer support	1st (Tie)	1st (Tie)	2nd

PureVPN emerges as the best overall VPN in our comparison, bagging the first spot in many categories. ExpressVPN is not far behind, with an impressive showing in speed, security, and more. PIA could use improvements in some areas, though it provides great compatibility and robust security.

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FAQ

Is PIA the strongest VPN?

PIA is one of the reputable VPNs in the industry, known for its commitment to user privacy and a robust server network. However, it would not be fair to call it the strongest as there are many VPNs, each with their own set of pros and cons.

What is the difference between ExpressVPN and PIA?

The biggest difference between the two is in connection speeds – ExpressVPN is much faster than PIA. Also, ExpressVPN offers better privacy and streaming capabilities than PIA.

Is PIA better than ExpressVPN?

PIA is better than ExpressVPN in terms of affordability and supporting unlimited simultaneous connections. However, ExpressVPN outperforms PIA in many areas like unblocking, privacy, and speed. 

Is ExpressVPN better than PIA for streaming?

Yes, ExpressVPN is a more reliable option when it comes to unblocking streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Max, and Disney from any corner of the world.

Is PIA a good VPN?

Yes, PIA is not a bad VPN at all. It offers great security, decent connection speeds, and a proven no-log policy (audited by Deloitte).