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OpenVPN VS ExpressVPN

Compare OpenVPN VS ExpressVPN and see what are their differences

OpenVPN logo OpenVPN

OpenVPN - The Open Source VPN

ExpressVPN logo ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the worlds fastest VPN service.
  • OpenVPN Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-19
  • ExpressVPN Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-26

OpenVPN features and specs

  • Security
    OpenVPN uses robust encryption standards like AES-256, providing a high level of security for data transmission.
  • Open Source
    Being open-source, OpenVPN allows users to verify its code for vulnerabilities, ensuring transparency and reliability.
  • Flexibility
    OpenVPN can run on various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, offering extensive compatibility.
  • Customizability
    Users can configure OpenVPN according to their specific needs, allowing advanced network setups and policies.
  • Performance
    OpenVPN offers strong performance with efficient handling of large data transmissions and support for high and stable speeds.
  • Community Support
    A large and active community provides ample resources, including tutorials, forums, and user support.
  • Cost
    As a free and open-source solution, OpenVPN significantly reduces the cost compared to many commercial VPN offerings.

Possible disadvantages of OpenVPN

  • Complex Setup
    Setting up OpenVPN can be complex and may require technical expertise, particularly for advanced configurations.
  • Resource Intensive
    OpenVPN can be resource-intensive compared to some other VPN protocols, potentially impacting the performance of older or lower-spec hardware.
  • Client Software
    The official OpenVPN client software has a less user-friendly interface compared to some commercial VPNs, possibly deterring less tech-savvy users.
  • Mobile Experience
    Although OpenVPN supports mobile devices, the user experience on mobile can be less streamlined compared to desktop environments.
  • Initial Learning Curve
    New users may find the initial learning curve steep due to the multitude of configuration options and the need for understanding networking concepts.
  • Support
    While community support is strong, there may not be as much immediate or personalized support as found with some commercial VPN services.

ExpressVPN features and specs

  • High Speed
    ExpressVPN offers some of the fastest connection speeds available in the VPN market, which is ideal for activities like streaming and gaming.
  • Wide Server Network
    With servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN provides extensive global coverage, allowing users to access content from a wide range of locations.
  • Strong Security
    ExpressVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is considered military-grade, along with other security protocols to ensure user data remains secure.
  • No-Logs Policy
    The company has a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited to verify that user activities are not tracked or stored.
  • Ease of Use
    The interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it a good option for both beginners and advanced users.
  • Reliable Customer Support
    24/7 customer support through live chat and email ensures that any issues or questions can be resolved quickly.

Possible disadvantages of ExpressVPN

  • Price
    ExpressVPN is relatively expensive compared to other VPN providers, which might be a barrier for budget-conscious users.
  • Limited Simultaneous Connections
    Only allows up to 5 simultaneous device connections per subscription, which may not be sufficient for users with multiple devices.
  • No Free Trial
    ExpressVPN does not offer a free trial. While they do provide a 30-day money-back guarantee, some users prefer to try a service without any financial commitment.

OpenVPN videos

OpenVPN Overview

More videos:

  • Tutorial - How to setup OpenVPN on Windows | macOS | Android | iOS - Smart DNS Proxy

ExpressVPN videos

ExpressVPN review: Is it worth your money?

More videos:

  • Review - ExpressVPN Review 2020 - What Other Reviewers Don't TELL YOU!
  • Review - ExpressVPN Review 2019 - MOST HONEST REVIEW ON YOUTUBE!
  • Tutorial - ExpressVPN Review 2022: How to get HIGHEST Speed??
  • Review - ExpressVPN Review 2022: Pros & Cons - Unbiased VPN Review
  • Review - ExpressVPN Review 2022 🔥 Everything you need to know on Express VPN

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to OpenVPN and ExpressVPN)
VPN
64 64%
36% 36
Security & Privacy
67 67%
33% 33
Cloud VPN
74 74%
26% 26
Security
49 49%
51% 51

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare OpenVPN and ExpressVPN

OpenVPN Reviews

The top 10 alternatives to OpenVPN
OpenVPN is an open-source software application that provides virtual private network (VPN) services. It allows the creation of secure network connections over the internet, using a custom security protocol that utilizes SSL/TLS for key exchange. OpenVPN is capable of traversing network address translators (NATs) and firewalls, providing users with the ability to securely...
Best Top 20 OpenVPN Alternatives (Pros and Cons)
OpenVPN is a virtual private network system used to create trusted end-to-end connection configuration and remote access services. As with any other VPN service, OpenVPN also has its own drawbacks. For instance, its inability to bypass particular proxy servers and complexities in user journeys lead to less user-friendliness. Therefore, we will be discussing a few...
6 Types of VPN Protocols, Compared: Which is the Best to Use?
In most cases, OpenVPN or WireGuard will be your best bet. PPTP is a protocol we don’t recommend using because of its relatively low-level encryption. However, you could try this protocol when privacy and security are not your highest priorities, such as for unblocking streams. If OpenVPN is not supported or does not work well for whatever reason, you could consider using...
Source: vpnoverview.com
OpenVPN vs WireGuard: Which protocol is best?
OpenVPN was first released in May 2001. Although the PPTP protocol had been around for five years already at this point, OpenVPN became popular because it offered stronger encryption without too much of a drop in speed. Over the years, vulnerabilities were patched and new clients were developed that brought OpenVPN support to a greater range of devices. This previously...
9 Best NordVPN Alternatives You Must Use In 2022
The next alternative to NordVPN on our list is OpenVPN. OpenVPN allows you to establish a point-to-point secure connection between your device and the Internet. It is a flexible VPN solution that can cater to business needs as well.
Source: wethegeek.com

ExpressVPN Reviews

The Best Top 10 VPNs for Spotify 2025
ExpressVPN is a popular choice for Spotify users, offering fast and secure connections to its vast network of servers. With a user-friendly interface and 24/7 customer support, ExpressVPN is perfect for music lovers.
Best Top 20 OpenVPN Alternatives (Pros and Cons)
ExpressVPN is one of the leading VPN providers in the world. The kill switch or the Network Lock in ExpressVPN ensures there’s no data or IP leak when the VPN tunnel is compromised. Furthermore, this software is carefully engineered to secure user privacy.
Best 5 Psiphon Alternatives in 2023
ExpressVPN is deemed as one of the best VPN services to have ever existed, and we can see why. It offers a reliable and fast connection no matter where you live. With speeds up to 580Mbps and over 3000 servers, ExpressVPN is a pretty good value even at the slightly expensive monthly subscription fee. However, a big downside to ExpressVPN in our opinion is the measly 5 device...
10 Best Hamachi Alternatives for Virtual LAN Gaming
ExpressVpn’s network is SSL secured with 256-bit encryption. This VPN is perfect for those who want to secure their computer, tablet, smartphone, or router in just one click.
Source: techviral.net
The Best NordVPN Alternatives in 2022
ExpressVPN is hands-down on top of the list when it comes to VPN service providers. It features unlimited speed, bandwidth, and server switches — plus best-in-class security and encryption. What’s great about this service is it lets users browse from 160 locations with thousands of servers in 94 countries and offers support for every major operating system such as Windows,...
Source: www.alphr.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, OpenVPN seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 40 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

OpenVPN mentions (40)

  • Ask HN: Who is hiring? (October 2023)
    OpenVPN is hiring! https://openvpn.net/ C++ Developer in the United States. Full-time| Fully remote| Flexible work schedules Link to look at vacancy details and apply:. - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • Are there any work arounds for the Netflix new "household" system?
    How you connect to your modem will depend on the device you are using, but for windows laptops as an example you download the OpenVPN program and input your modem details there, much like you would any other vpn service. I think there would be some guides on youtube. https://openvpn.net/. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Can i use PFSense to control incoming user connections (without a vpn?)
    I just started playing with CloudConnexa for remotely managing my second pFSense. Really nice and is free for up to 3 concurrent users. https://openvpn.net. Can also self-host OpenVPN access server with a free 2 concurrent license. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Is the 7spotlight Markle family interview airing now? Is anyone watching and can provide comment? 👀📺
    If anyone is being blocked check out free OpenVPN. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Is it possible for a sysadmin to block only some packets from a VPN connection ?
    I too haven't used the client-nat directive in some years (I currently implement 1:1 NAT with pfsense to access my network because I'm too lazy to change the networks subnet from the default) so I decided to retest and it does appear that OpenVPN Connect clients do not properly support the client-nat directive but the traditional OpenVPN server/clients still do. I've just tested this on OpenVPN 2.6.3 Server,... Source: about 2 years ago
View more

ExpressVPN mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of ExpressVPN yet. Tracking of ExpressVPN recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing OpenVPN and ExpressVPN, you can also consider the following products

ProtonVPN - ProtonVPN is a security focused FREE VPN service, developed by CERN and MIT scientists. Use the web anonymously, unblock websites & encrypt your connection.

NordVPN - NordVPN offers VPN technology that encrypts data twice.

Hotspot Shield - Hotspot Shield is a software application developed by AnchorFree, Inc.

Psiphon - Psiphon is circumvention software for Windows and Mobile platforms that provides uncensored access to Internet content. Read more about Psiphon.

Windscribe - Windscribe is a desktop application and browser extension that work together to block ads and trackers, restore access to blocked content and help you safeguard your privacy online.

TunnelBear - Really simple VPN to browse the web privately & anonymously.