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OpenVPN vs ExpressVPN: 150 Highlights & 84 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better

Both excel in streaming compatibility, but ExpressVPN often edges out with superior performance. OpenVPN supports wide device compatibility and custom setups. Choosing software can be messy. We made it easier by comparing OpenVPN vs ExpressVPN on all key target user, deployment type, connection logs & ram-only servers.

62 Points
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
68 Points
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
vs

Highlights 175

No extras. Just what matters.
62 Points
vs
68 Points

Why is OpenVPN better than ExpressVPN ?

Scroll down for more facts

OpenVPN vs ExpressVPN: A Detailed Comparison of Security, Performance, and Usability

Choosing between OpenVPN and ExpressVPN can be a pivotal decision for users seeking robust VPN solutions tailored to different needs. Both products deliver on core features such as unlimited bandwidth capacity, strong encryption standards, and kill switches. 

While OpenVPN is more business-centric with hybrid deployment and strong automation support, ExpressVPN offers a cloud-based platform designed for individuals, teams, and businesses alike. Their distinctions lie in privacy mechanisms, platform compatibility, streaming capabilities, and usability features, which are crucial when selecting the right VPN for personal or professional use.

OpenVPN's Strengths: Customization and Enterprise-Grade Features

OpenVPN shines when it comes to catering to business users who require advanced control and flexibility. Its hybrid deployment type blends on-premise and cloud elements, which is advantageous for companies with complex network demands. Security is solid with periodic third-party audits and the utilization of multiple key exchange methods (RSA, ECDHE, Diffie-Hellman), ensuring versatile cryptographic options.

Another highlight is OpenVPN's customization capabilities. It supports automation scripts, mesh networking, and provides extensive API access for integration and automation. These features empower businesses to tailor their VPN setup meticulously and manage intricate user access via sub-accounts, multiple user profiles, and detailed access control levels.

Deploying OpenVPN means you benefit from zero latency impact on performance (latency impact: 0) and access to detailed performance analytics. Though it lacks peak speed ratings, the infrastructure supports unlimited bandwidth, hybrid server ownership, and Tier III data centers, underscoring reliability. Its privacy approach includes a no-logs policy but does permit some connection and metadata logs, which may be a consideration for strict privacy advocates.

Device-wise, OpenVPN focuses mainly on iOS with a command line interface and IoT compatibility, though it does not support browser extensions or smart TV integration. Customer support comes with a community forum, email, ticket, and phone assistance, along with a 14-day free trial offering a flexible gateway to test the service.

ExpressVPN's Highlights: User-Friendly Interface and Top-Tier Privacy

ExpressVPN caters to a wide range of users, from individuals to businesses, via a cloud-based deployment that supports versatile, multi-platform usage. Its standout feature is the stealth mode, letting users bypass restrictive censorship by obfuscating VPN traffic, a big plus for privacy seekers in high-surveillance regions.

Privacy is a cornerstone of ExpressVPN, featuring RAM-only servers that do not retain user data, a strict no-logs policy with no connection or metadata records, and comprehensive data deletion policies. Its encryption relies on RSA and ECDHE, backed by regular third-party audits ensuring transparency.

The VPN's performance benefits from a measurable peak speed of 300 Mbps and smart routing, albeit with a slight latency impact of 15 ms. This balance favors streaming and gaming, where ExpressVPN excels by supporting popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Its streaming reliability is rated high, making it a top choice for entertainment consumption.

The extensive platform compatibility, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, and smart TVs, makes ExpressVPN a versatile choice for users with diverse devices. Browser extension support and per-app rules enhance user convenience, while gaming optimization features and P2P support round out the functionality.

Customer support is streamlined with live chat and email response within 24 hours. Although ExpressVPN lacks detailed business-oriented account controls like multi-user profiles or sub-accounts, it provides a simple session management experience. The payment options are broad, accepting credit cards, PayPal, and even cryptocurrency, though it does not offer a free trial period.

Quick Take

OpenVPN stands out with its robust business framework, offering rich automation, extensive access controls, and strong customization suited for enterprise environments. On the other hand, ExpressVPN appeals mostly to individual users who value superior privacy, seamless streaming, broad device compatibility, and easy-to-use interfaces.

Bottom Line

If your priority is a VPN with deep customization, advanced management features, and longer trial periods tailored to professional setups, OpenVPN is the better fit. Conversely, for those seeking a high-speed, private, and user-friendly VPN with excellent support for streaming and wide device support, ExpressVPN leads the pack.

Verdict

  • Winner: ExpressVPN - Offers stronger privacy protections, superior streaming performance, broader platform compatibility, and a user-friendly experience.
  • Runner-up: OpenVPN - Excels in business-focused features, including advanced automation, granular account control, and zero latency impact, making it ideal for enterprise use.

Comparisons 37

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

Related comparisons 37

Because one duel is never enough.

Comparisons & Facts 175

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

Which tool gets it right — OpenVPN or ExpressVPN? Dive into this comprehensive vpn feature battle and let the specs speak for themselves.

General Information 12

Deployment Type

What is the deployment type?

60 OpenVPN 1 Votes Hybrid

84 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Cloud-Based

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Deployment Type

OpenVPN uses a Hybrid deployment type combining cloud and on-premises, while ExpressVPN is strictly Cloud-Based. ExpressVPN's approach suits users looking for fully cloud infrastructure.

How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.

OpenVPN's hybrid deployment gives businesses a lot of control which feels essential for complex setups.

See more

Target User

Who is this VPN designed for?

70 OpenVPN 0 Votes Business

66 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Individual, Team, Business

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Target User

OpenVPN targets business users while ExpressVPN caters to individuals, teams, and business users. ExpressVPN offers a broader audience, making it more versatile for different user types compared to OpenVPN's business focus.

Identifies the primary audience.

Release Year

When was this VPN first released?

15 OpenVPN 0 Votes 2001

44 ExpressVPN 0 Votes 2009

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

OpenVPN has been in continuous development since 2001, making it one of the most mature and battle-tested VPN technologies in enterprise security environments.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The VPN service was released in 2009, indicating over a decade of operational experience.

Year the VPN service was first released.

Simultaneous Connections

How many simultaneous connections are allowed?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

54 ExpressVPN 0 Votes 8–10 Connections

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Unlike consumer VPNs that limit connections (often 5–10 devices), this supports unlimited concurrent sessions—useful for remote workforces and site-to-site tunnels.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Simultaneous connections range from 8 to 10 devices, supporting multi-device usage for one subscription.

Number of devices that can connect at the same time.

Service Availability

Where is the service available?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Global

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Global

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Designed for worldwide deployment, supporting distributed teams and international infrastructure.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Service availability is global, covering multiple regions and countries worldwide.

Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.

VPN Service Type

What type of VPN service is offered?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes Enterprise VPN

24 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Consumer VPN

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The service is designed as a consumer VPN, focusing on individual and small-scale user needs.

Indicates the primary service classification.

Service Model

What service model does the VPN use?

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Subscription-Based

64 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Subscription-Based

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The service model follows a subscription-based format, requiring regular payments to maintain access.

Business and access model used to provide the VPN service.

Supported Devices Count

How many devices are supported?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

64 ExpressVPN 0 Votes 7–10 Devices

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Ideal for businesses deploying VPN access across large teams, branch offices, or distributed cloud infrastructure without per-device licensing limits.

Maximum number of devices supported per account.

Account Sharing Policy

Is account sharing allowed?

40 OpenVPN 0 Votes Restricted

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Allowed

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Account Sharing Policy

OpenVPN restricts account sharing, while ExpressVPN allows it. This makes ExpressVPN more flexible for users who want to share accounts within a personal or team environment.

Defines rules around sharing accounts.

Regulatory Compliance Statement

What regulations does it comply with?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes GDPR

0 ExpressVPN 0 Votes None

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Regulatory Compliance Statement

OpenVPN complies with GDPR regulatory standards, ensuring strong privacy protections. ExpressVPN does not have a listed regulatory compliance statement. OpenVPN is preferable for users needing GDPR compliance.

Stated compliance with data protection regulations.

Intended Use

What is this VPN mainly used for?

58 OpenVPN 0 Votes Security, Business

53 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, Gaming, P2P, Business

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Intended Use

OpenVPN's intended use focuses on Security and Business, whereas ExpressVPN includes Privacy, Security, Streaming, Gaming, P2P, and Business. ExpressVPN provides a broader range, suiting more diverse needs.

Describes the main use cases supported.

Platform Category

Which platform categories are supported?

65 OpenVPN 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Router, Cloud

62 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Router

Indicates supported platform categories.

Security & Encryption 24

Kill Switch

Is a kill switch available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Kill Switch

Both OpenVPN and ExpressVPN feature a Kill Switch, ensuring that user data is protected during connection drops, which is important for maintaining security.

Blocks traffic if VPN connection drops.

Audit Frequency

How often are audits done?

69 OpenVPN 0 Votes Periodic

73 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Periodic

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Audit Frequency

Audit Frequency is periodic for both OpenVPN and ExpressVPN, demonstrating that both maintain regular security reviews to uphold standards.

How often audits are performed.

Third-Party Audit Availability

Are third-party audits available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Third-Party Audit Availability

Both OpenVPN and ExpressVPN provide Third-Party Audit Availability, showing transparency and commitment to security through external verification.

Availability of external audit reports.

Encryption Standard

What encryption standard is used?

65 OpenVPN 0 Votes AES, ChaCha20

64 ExpressVPN 0 Votes AES

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

AES is widely adopted in enterprise and government systems, while ChaCha20 is optimized for high performance on mobile and low-power devices.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The encryption standard used is AES, which is widely regarded as secure and efficient for VPN encryption.

Specifies the primary encryption algorithms used.

Encryption Strength

What encryption strength is used?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes AES-256

84 ExpressVPN 0 Votes AES-256

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

AES-256 is considered military-grade encryption, using a 256-bit key for extremely strong brute-force resistance.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Encryption strength is AES-256, a top-tier standard providing robust protection against brute-force attacks.

Level and type of encryption used to secure data.

Key Exchange Method

How are encryption keys exchanged?

67 OpenVPN 0 Votes RSA, ECDHE, Diffie-Hellman

73 ExpressVPN 0 Votes RSA, ECDHE

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Key Exchange Method

OpenVPN supports RSA, ECDHE, and Diffie-Hellman key exchanges, while ExpressVPN supports only RSA and ECDHE. OpenVPN offers more key exchange methods, giving more encryption flexibility.

Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.

Authentication Method

How are VPN connections authenticated?

64 OpenVPN 0 Votes Certificates, Pre-Shared Key

93 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Certificates

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The authentication method uses certificates, which help in strong verification of identities and secure connections.

Method used to authenticate connections.

Perfect Forward Secrecy

Is perfect forward secrecy supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Ensures past sessions remain secure even if long-term private keys are compromised—critical for enterprise compliance requirements.

Ensures past sessions remain secure if keys are compromised.

VPN Protocols Supported

Which VPN protocols are supported?

70 OpenVPN 0 Votes OpenVPN

69 ExpressVPN 0 Votes IKEv2

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Supported VPN protocols focus on IKEv2, favored for stability but may include others as options.

Lists all supported VPN protocols.

Default Protocol

What protocol is used by default?

70 OpenVPN 0 Votes OpenVPN

64 ExpressVPN 0 Votes IKEv2

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The default VPN protocol is IKEv2, known for stability and quick reconnection.

Protocol used by default.

DNS Leak Protection

Is DNS leak protection included?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Prevents DNS queries from leaking outside the encrypted tunnel, which helps maintain privacy and internal network confidentiality.

Prevents DNS requests from leaking outside the tunnel.

IPv6 Leak Protection

Is IPv6 leak protection supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Protects against traffic leaks on IPv6 networks, which are increasingly common in modern infrastructure.

Prevents IPv6 traffic leaks.

Privacy & Logging Policy 18

Connection Logs

Are connection logs stored?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 1 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Connection Logs

OpenVPN records connection logs, whereas ExpressVPN does not. ExpressVPN is more suitable for users focused on minimizing data tracking.

Indicates logging of connection metadata.

No connection logs in ExpressVPN means better privacy which I really appreciate.

See more

RAM-Only Servers

Are RAM-only servers used?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
RAM-Only Servers

OpenVPN lacks RAM-only servers, while ExpressVPN uses RAM-only servers enhancing privacy by not storing data on physical drives. ExpressVPN is better for privacy-conscious users.

Indicates use of volatile memory servers.

Logging Policy Type

What is the logging policy type?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes No-Logs

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes No-Logs

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Logging Policy Type

Both OpenVPN and ExpressVPN maintain a No-Logs policy type, highlighting strong privacy practices with no data retention.

Describes the overall logging stance.

Privacy Policy Clarity

How clear is the privacy policy?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Clear

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Clear

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Privacy policy clarity is clear, ensuring users understand how their data is handled.

Describes how understandable the policy is.

Activity Logs

Are activity logs stored?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates whether user activity is logged.

Metadata Logs

Are metadata logs collected?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Metadata Logs

OpenVPN keeps metadata logs but ExpressVPN does not. ExpressVPN provides stronger privacy controls by avoiding metadata storage.

Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.

IP Address Logging

Are IP addresses logged?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.

Timestamp Logging

Are timestamps logged?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates logging of session timestamps.

Bandwidth Usage Logging

Is bandwidth usage logged?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.

Jurisdiction Country

Which country is the jurisdiction?

0 OpenVPN 0 Votes None

34 ExpressVPN 0 Votes British Virgin Islands

Country where the VPN company is legally registered.

Data Retention Period

How long is data retained?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes No Logs

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes No Logs

Length of time user data is retained.

Warrant Canary

Is a warrant canary published?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates presence of a warrant canary.

Network & Server Infrastructure 20

Server Ownership

Who owns the servers?

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Hybrid

64 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Hybrid

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Server Ownership

OpenVPN and ExpressVPN use a hybrid server ownership model, balancing control and flexibility through a mix of owned and third-party servers.

Describes who controls the servers.

Gaming Optimized Servers

Are gaming servers available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Gaming Optimized Servers

Neither OpenVPN nor ExpressVPN offers gaming optimized servers, so both are on par for gamers regarding specialized server support.

Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.

Total Server Count

How many servers are available?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes 1000–3000

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes 3000+

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Indicates a large-scale infrastructure footprint, suitable for global enterprise deployments and regional redundancy.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Total server count exceeds 3000, providing extensive network options for users.

Approximate total number of servers available.

Data Center Tier

What data center tier is used?

40 OpenVPN 0 Votes Tier III

44 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Tier III

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Data Center Tier

Both services operate data centers at Tier III standard, ensuring robust infrastructure with high availability and fault tolerance.

Indicates data center reliability level.

Bandwidth Capacity

What is the bandwidth capacity?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Bandwidth Capacity

Both OpenVPN and ExpressVPN offer unlimited bandwidth capacity, allowing unrestricted data transfers which is ideal for heavy users.

Overall bandwidth capability of the network.

Network Uptime SLA

Is there an uptime SLA?

57 OpenVPN 0 Votes 99.9%

61 ExpressVPN 0 Votes 99.9%

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

99.9% uptime translates to roughly 8.76 hours of potential downtime per year, aligning with many enterprise-grade SLAs.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Network uptime SLA guarantees a high availability rate of 99.9%, which means the service is reliable and rarely experiences outages.

Guaranteed network uptime level.

Total Country Coverage

How many countries are covered?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes 90+

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes 90+

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Coverage in 90+ countries supports localized access and lower latency connections for multinational organizations.

Number of countries with server presence.

Total City Coverage

How many cities are covered?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes 200+

74 ExpressVPN 0 Votes 100–200

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

City-level coverage improves routing efficiency and can reduce latency compared to country-level-only networks.

Number of cities with VPN servers.

Server Location Type

Are server locations physical or virtual?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Mixed

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Mixed

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Server locations are a mix of physical and virtual servers, balancing performance and geographic coverage.

Indicates how server locations are implemented.

IP Rotation Frequency

How often do IPs rotate?

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes Manual

64 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Session-Based

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

IP rotation frequency is session-based, offering a new IP address for each session to enhance anonymity.

How often IP addresses rotate.

Unlimited Bandwidth

Is bandwidth unlimited?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Supports high-volume use cases like site-to-site tunnels, VoIP, and cloud workloads without throttling.

Indicates if data usage is unlimited.

Throttling Policy

Is bandwidth throttled?

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes No Throttling

14 ExpressVPN 0 Votes No Throttling

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Throttling Policy

Both services have a No Throttling policy, meaning users can expect consistent speeds without artificial slowdowns, supporting smooth performance.

Describes bandwidth throttling rules.

Performance & Speed 14

Latency Impact

How much latency does the VPN add?

0 ms 1 Votes
OpenVPN
15 ms 0 Votes
ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Latency Impact

OpenVPN has zero latency impact, while ExpressVPN adds 15 ms latency. OpenVPN is thus preferable for users where minimal delay is critical.

Additional latency introduced by the VPN.

Zero latency with OpenVPN is amazing but ExpressVPN's 15 ms delay still feels acceptable for streaming.

See more

Smart Routing

Is smart routing used?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Smart Routing

Smart Routing is enabled on both OpenVPN and ExpressVPN, improving connection speeds and reliability by intelligently managing network paths.

Routes traffic through optimal paths.

Performance Analytics

Are performance analytics available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Performance Analytics

OpenVPN supports Performance Analytics, but ExpressVPN does not. Users looking to monitor and analyze performance details may prefer OpenVPN.

Provides performance monitoring insights.

Regional Speed Optimization

Is regional speed optimization supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Regional Speed Optimization

Regional Speed Optimization is available on both OpenVPN and ExpressVPN, helping optimize user connections and improve speed based on location.

Optimizes speeds by geographic region.

Average Download Speed

What is the average download speed?

0 Mbps 0 Votes
OpenVPN
85 Mbps 0 Votes
ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

No fixed speed—performance depends on server hardware, encryption settings, and network bandwidth. 0 Mbps indicates not publicly benchmarked rather than actual throughput.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The average download speed is 85 Mbps, which ensures smooth and fast internet browsing and streaming experiences for users.

Typical downstream speed when connected to the VPN.

Average Upload Speed

What is the average upload speed?

0 Mbps 0 Votes
OpenVPN
75 Mbps 0 Votes
ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Upload speed varies by deployment and infrastructure; enterprise setups often depend on the organization’s ISP capacity.

Typical upstream speed when using the VPN.

Peak Speed Performance

What is the peak speed performance?

0 Mbps 0 Votes
OpenVPN
300 Mbps 1 Votes
ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Peak Speed Performance

OpenVPN peak speed is 0 Mbps indicating no specified limit, whereas ExpressVPN peaks at 300 Mbps. ExpressVPN is better for users requiring guaranteed high speeds.

Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.

ExpressVPN's 300 Mbps peak speed beats OpenVPN's 0 making it better for fast streaming.

See more

Speed Consistency

How consistent are the speeds?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes High

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes High

Stability of speeds over time.

Speed Throttling

Is speed throttling applied?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.

Protocol Speed Optimization

Are protocols optimized for speed?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Optimizes protocol choice for speed.

Auto Server Selection Speed

Does it auto-select the fastest server?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Automatically selects fastest servers.

Speed Test Tool

Is there a built-in speed test?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Built-in tool for measuring VPN speed.

Platform & Device Support 13

OS Version Compatibility

Which OS versions are supported?

85 OpenVPN 0 Votes iOS

75 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
OS Version Compatibility

OpenVPN supports iOS OS compatibility only, whereas ExpressVPN supports a wider range including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and routers. ExpressVPN suits multi-device users.

Operating systems and platforms supported.

Browser Extension

Are browser extensions available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 1 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Browser Extension

ExpressVPN offers a browser extension for easier access and control, while OpenVPN does not, making ExpressVPN more user-friendly for browser users.

Indicates availability of browser extensions.

I prefer ExpressVPN since it includes a browser extension, unlike OpenVPN.

See more

App Interface Consistency

Is the app interface consistent?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Consistent

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Consistent

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The app interface consistency across platforms provides a uniform user experience, reducing the learning curve.

Consistency of UI across platforms.

Smart TV

Are smart TVs supported?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
Smart TV

ExpressVPN supports Smart TV devices, but OpenVPN does not. For Smart TV users, ExpressVPN is the more suitable choice.

Indicates support for smart TV platforms.

Gaming Console

Are gaming consoles supported?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.

Browser Types Supported

Which browsers are supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes OpenVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

85 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge

Lists supported browser types.

Manual Configuration

Is manual configuration supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows manual VPN setup.

CLI Support

Is CLI support available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
vs
ExpressVPN
CLI Support

Both OpenVPN and ExpressVPN support CLI, catering to advanced users or administrators preferring command-line interface control.

Indicates command-line interface availability.

Cross-Platform Sync

Is cross-platform sync available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Syncs settings across devices.

Device Management Dashboard

Is there a device management dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Centralized device management interface.

ARM Architecture

Are ARM devices supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates support for ARM-based devices.

Virtual Machine

Is virtual machine usage supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates usability in virtual machines.

Features & Functionality 24

Automation Scripts

Are automation scripts supported?

Yes 1 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows use of automation scripts.

OpenVPN supports automation scripts which is important for business use but not really needed for casual users.

See more

Custom DNS

Can custom DNS be configured?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows use of custom DNS resolvers.

Per-App Rules

Can rules be set per app?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Applies VPN rules per application.

Malware Protection

Is malware protection included?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Malware protection is provided as part of the service, enhancing security beyond encryption.

Protects against malicious domains.

Feature Customization Depth

How customizable are the features?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes Advanced

54 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Moderate

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Feature customization depth is moderate, meaning users have a fair amount of control to tailor the VPN settings to their needs without overwhelming complexity.

Describes overall customization level.

Split Tunneling

Is split tunneling supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows selective routing of traffic outside the VPN.

App-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set per app?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows split tunneling by application.

URL-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set by URL?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows split tunneling by website or domain.

Auto-Connect Rules

Are auto-connect rules supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Automatically connects under defined conditions.

Trusted Wi-Fi Detection

Can trusted Wi-Fi networks be detected?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Detects trusted networks to control VPN behavior.

Ad Blocker

Is an ad blocker included?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Blocks advertisements at the network level.

Tracker Blocker

Are trackers blocked?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Blocks tracking scripts and domains.

Streaming, Gaming & P2P Support 9

Streaming Reliability

How reliable is streaming access?

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes Low

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes High

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Streaming reliability is rated high, supporting smooth viewing experiences on popular platforms.

Consistency of streaming access over time.

4K Streaming

Is 4K streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.

Cloud Gaming

Does it support cloud gaming?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.

Torrenting Policy

Is torrenting allowed?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Allowed

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Allowed

Defines torrenting rules.

Streaming Platform Support

Which streaming platforms are supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes OpenVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

81 ExpressVPN 1 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Streaming platform support includes major services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, enabling access to diverse content libraries.

Streaming platforms that the VPN can reliably unblock and support.

ExpressVPN supports tons of streaming platforms and has high streaming reliability so it's perfect for binge watching.

See more

P2P File Sharing

Is P2P file sharing allowed?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Allows peer-to-peer traffic, which can be useful for distributed file synchronization and development workflows.

Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.

HD Streaming

Is HD streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates support for HD streaming quality.

Gaming Latency Optimization

Is gaming latency optimized?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.

Port Selection for P2P

Can ports be selected for P2P?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows port selection for P2P traffic.

Account, Access & Management 10

Multi-User Profiles

Can multiple user profiles be created?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows multiple user profiles under one account.

Access Control Levels

Are access control levels available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Supports different permission levels.

Login History Visibility

Is login history visible?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Shows login and access history.

Two-Factor Authentication

Is two-factor authentication available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Adds an extra authentication layer beyond passwords, strengthening protection against credential-based attacks.

Adds an extra layer of account security.

User Account Dashboard

Is there a user account dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Provides a central interface for managing the account.

Sub-Account

Are sub-accounts supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.

Team or Family Plans

Are team or family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates availability of shared plans.

Session Management

Can active sessions be managed?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows viewing and managing active sessions.

Device Revocation

Can devices be revoked remotely?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows removal of connected devices remotely.

Password Policy

How strong is the password policy?

0 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unspecified

4 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Unspecified

Rules for password complexity and security.

Customer Support & Documentation 8

Support Channels

What support channels are available?

50 OpenVPN 0 Votes Email, Ticket, Phone

69 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Live Chat, Email

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Support channels include live chat and email, offering users convenient ways to get assistance.

Lists available customer support channels.

API Documentation

Is API documentation available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Provides documentation for API usage.

Community Forum

Is there a community forum?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates presence of a user community forum.

Response Time SLA

What is the response time SLA?

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

64 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Response time service-level agreement ensures customer inquiries are addressed within 24 hours.

Expected support response time.

Support Language Coverage

What support languages are available?

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes English

49 ExpressVPN 0 Votes English, Multi-language

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Support language coverage includes English and multiple other languages, facilitating customer support for a broad user base.

Languages supported by customer service.

Knowledge Base

Is there a knowledge base?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.

Setup Guides

Are setup guides available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Provides step-by-step setup instructions.

Video Tutorials

Are video tutorials available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.

Billing, Plans & Trials 12

Trial Duration

How long is the free trial?

14 days 1 Votes
OpenVPN
7 days 0 Votes
ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

14 days equals two full weeks—enough time for IT teams to test deployment, policy controls, and performance before committing.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The trial duration is 7 days, allowing users to test the VPN before committing.

Length of the free trial period.

The 14-day trial on OpenVPN gives more flexibility to test than ExpressVPN's 7 days which can be limiting.

See more

Business Plan Availability

Are business plans available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Structured specifically for enterprise teams, often including centralized management, role-based access control, and compliance tooling.

Indicates availability of business plans.

Subscription Length Options

What subscription lengths are available?

53 OpenVPN 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly

61 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Flexible billing options allow short-term testing or discounted annual commitments for enterprises.

Available subscription durations.

Refund Period

What is the refund period?

0 OpenVPN 0 Votes No Refund

64 ExpressVPN 0 Votes 30 Days

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The refund period lasts for 30 days, giving users a full month to evaluate the service risk-free.

Time window for requesting refunds.

Payment Methods Supported

What payment methods are supported?

40 OpenVPN 0 Votes Credit Card

64 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Payment methods supported include credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies, providing flexibility and anonymity where needed.

Supported payment methods.

Plan Change Policy

What is the plan change policy?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Plan change policy is flexible, permitting users to adjust or upgrade their plans at any time without restrictions.

Policy governing whether users can upgrade or downgrade their subscription plans.

Free Trial Availability

Is a free trial available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates whether a free trial is offered.

Money-Back Guarantee

Is there a money-back guarantee?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.

Anonymous Payment

Are anonymous payments supported?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Allows anonymous payment methods.

Auto-Renewal

Is auto-renewal enabled?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates whether subscriptions auto-renew.

Plan Flexibility

How flexible are the plans?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes High

44 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Moderate

Ease of changing plans.

Family Plan Availability

Are family plans available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Indicates availability of family plans.

Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11

Public Reputation

What is the public reputation?

50 OpenVPN 0 Votes Good

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Excellent

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Widely recognized in the cybersecurity industry and frequently adopted by enterprises, security professionals, and IT administrators.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The public reputation is excellent, reflecting widespread positive user feedback and trust in the VPN provider.

Overall public perception.

Independent Security Audits

Are independent audits conducted?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Undergoes third-party security audits.

No-Log Claim Credibility

Is the no-logs claim credible?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Credibility of no-logs claims.

Service Uptime

What is the service uptime?

99.9 % 0 Votes
OpenVPN
99.9 % 0 Votes
ExpressVPN

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Equivalent to approximately 43 minutes of potential downtime per month, depending on maintenance windows.

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

Service uptime is guaranteed at 99.9%, reflecting highly reliable connectivity.

Average service availability over time.

Third-Party Review Presence

Does the VPN have third-party reviews?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Strong Presence

94 ExpressVPN 0 Votes Strong Presence

ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN

The VPN has a strong presence in third-party reviews, reflecting positive recognition and reliability.

Indicates whether the VPN service is actively reviewed on independent third-party platforms.

Downtime Transparency

Are downtimes disclosed?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.

Audit Transparency

Are audit reports public?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Publishes full audit reports.

Company Transparency

Is company ownership transparent?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Discloses ownership and leadership.

Jurisdiction Clarity

Is jurisdiction clearly stated?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Clearly states legal jurisdiction.

Transparency Reports

Are transparency reports published?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes ExpressVPN

Publishes government request reports.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Performance

How would you rate the overall performance of this VPN?

Very fast — Under 2 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Fast — 2 to 4 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Average speed — 4 to 6 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Slow — 6 to 10 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Very slow — Over 10 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

Ease of Setup

How easy is it to set up this VPN?

Very easy — Takes under 5 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Easy — Takes 5 to 10 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Average — Takes 10 to 15 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Hard — Takes 15 to 30 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Very hard — Takes over 30 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

User Interface

How would you describe the usability of this VPN's interface?

Very intuitive — Easy to navigate and use
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Easy to use — Clear and simple interface
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Average — Some features may be difficult to navigate
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Hard to use — Complex layout, hard to understand
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Very hard to use — Frustrating interface
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

Connection Stability

How stable is the connection when using this VPN?

Very stable — Rare disconnections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Stable — Occasional disconnections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Average stability — Frequent minor disconnections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Unstable — Regular disconnections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Very unstable — Almost always disconnects
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

Security Features

How would you rate the security features of this VPN?

Top-notch security — Includes features like 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and kill switch
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Great security — Includes strong encryption and basic protections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Average security — Standard encryption, basic protections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Weak security — Limited encryption and few protections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Poor security — No encryption or protections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

Device Compatibility

How well does this VPN work across different devices?

Excellent compatibility — Works on all devices without issues
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Good compatibility — Works on most devices with few issues
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Average compatibility — Works on some devices, limited support
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Poor compatibility — Works only on specific devices
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Very limited compatibility — Works on very few devices
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

Speed During Use

How fast is your internet connection when using this VPN?

Very fast — No noticeable decrease in speed
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Fast — Slight decrease in speed
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Average speed — Moderate decrease in speed
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Slow — Significant decrease in speed
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Very slow — Extremely slow, hard to use
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

Customer Support

How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?

Exceptional — Quick responses, helpful solutions
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Good — Support is helpful and timely
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Average — Support is okay but may take some time
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Poor — Long wait times and incomplete solutions
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Very poor — No helpful support, slow responses
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

Design Appeal

How would you rate the design appeal of this VPN's interface?

Very appealing — Modern, clean, and visually pleasing
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Appealing — Simple and easy on the eyes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Average — Nothing special, functional but basic
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Unappealing — Outdated and unattractive
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Very unappealing — Difficult to look at
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

Pricing

How would you rate the price of this VPN compared to its features?

Great value for money — Worth every penny
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Pretty good price — Good balance of features and cost
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Fair deal — Reasonable for the features provided
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Kinda pricey — Higher cost than expected
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN
Crazy expensive — Far too expensive for what it offers
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
ExpressVPN

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
0 / 5 0 Reviews
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions 0

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards 2

Only the best made it here.
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Collections 0

Treasures You’ve picked. No fluff, all fun.

More VPN 0

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Other ExpressVPN VPN 0

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