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I’ve spent the last several months testing both ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA) across multiple devices, use cases, and locations. Both are owned by Kape Technologies, yet they feel like completely different products built for different types of users.
The short version: ExpressVPN is faster, easier to use, and better for streaming — but you pay more for it. PIA is more affordable, more customizable, and allows unlimited simultaneous connections — but it requires more technical know-how and falls short in a few key areas.
In this full breakdown, I’ll compare both VPNs on speed, privacy, streaming, security, price, and more — so you can decide which one actually fits your needs in 2026.
Quick note on ownership: Both ExpressVPN and PIA are owned by Kape Technologies. Despite that shared ownership, they are managed by separate teams and serve quite different user profiles. I’ll factor this into the privacy analysis below.
ExpressVPN vs PIA: At a Glance
| Feature | ExpressVPN | PIA (Private Internet Access) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Streaming, ease of use, speed | Budget users, power users, torrenting |
| Price (best plan) | $2.79/mo (2-year) | $1.59/mo (3-year) |
| Speed retention | ~91% | ~85% |
| Servers | 3,000+ in 105 countries | 35,000+ in 90 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | 14 | Unlimited |
| Protocols | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Headquarters | British Virgin Islands | United States (5-Eyes) |
| No-logs audited? | Yes (KPMG, PwC) | Yes (Deloitte) |
| Streaming | Excellent (20+ Netflix libraries) | Good (limited libraries) |
| Torrenting | Good (all servers) | Excellent (SOCKS5, port forwarding) |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| My verdict | Best overall performance | Best value & customization |
Quick Verdicts
Best for Streaming & Speed
ExpressVPN — My verdict
The easiest, fastest, and most reliable VPN I’ve tested. ExpressVPN excels at unblocking streaming services and delivering consistent speeds across the globe — but you pay a premium for it.
- Fastest VPN I’ve tested — ~91% speed retention
- Unblocks 20+ Netflix libraries reliably
- Lightway protocol: faster and lighter than WireGuard
- British Virgin Islands HQ — outside 5-Eyes surveillance
- 19+ independent security audits
- Easiest to use — great for beginners
- More expensive than PIA
- Only 14 simultaneous connections (PIA has unlimited)
- No multi-hop (double VPN) feature
- Kape Technologies ownership worth noting
Best for Value & Power Users
PIA — My verdict
One of the most affordable premium VPNs out there. PIA shines for power users who want granular control, unlimited connections, and excellent torrenting — just don’t expect the same streaming reliability as ExpressVPN.
- Cheapest long-term plan — $1.59/mo (3-year)
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- SOCKS5 proxy + port forwarding for torrenting
- MACE ad blocker blocks 97% of ads in my tests
- Multi-hop (double VPN) support
- Massive server network: 35,000+ servers
- Based in the US — 5-Eyes surveillance alliance member
- Slower than ExpressVPN, especially on long-distance servers
- Inconsistent streaming — fewer Netflix libraries
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Kape Technologies ownership worth noting
Price Comparison: PIA Wins on Cost
This one isn’t close. PIA is consistently cheaper across every plan length.
| Plan | ExpressVPN | PIA |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $12.99/mo | $11.95/mo |
| 1-year | $4.99/mo | $3.33/mo |
| Best long-term deal | $2.79/mo (2-year + 4 mo free) | $1.59/mo (3-year + 3 mo free) |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| Simultaneous devices | 14 | Unlimited |
The gap becomes even more significant when you factor in device connections. PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription — meaning one account can cover your entire household. ExpressVPN caps you at 14, which is still generous but nowhere near unlimited.
Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees, and both accept credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrency. PIA even offers a 7-day free trial on Android and iOS.
My take: If budget is your primary concern, PIA is the clear winner. You get a premium VPN at a fraction of the cost — plus unlimited device coverage. That said, the premium you pay for ExpressVPN does translate into real-world performance advantages, as I’ll show below.
Speed Comparison: ExpressVPN Is Faster
In my testing, ExpressVPN retained approximately 91% of my baseline speeds, while PIA came in at around 85%. That gap widens significantly on long-distance server connections.
The reason ExpressVPN consistently wins on speed comes down to one thing: Lightway. This is ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, built specifically to strip out unnecessary code and deliver faster, more reliable connections. PIA uses WireGuard — which is excellent open-source technology — but it simply can’t match what Lightway achieves in real-world conditions.
| Server Location | ExpressVPN Download | PIA Download |
|---|---|---|
| Local (nearby) | ~724 Mbps | ~568 Mbps |
| London, UK | ~573 Mbps | ~507 Mbps |
| New York, US | ~468 Mbps | ~433 Mbps |
| Perth, Australia | ~382 Mbps | ~405 Mbps |
| Tokyo, Japan | ~301 Mbps | ~302 Mbps |
A few interesting observations from these results. ExpressVPN generally wins across the board — but PIA actually edges it out slightly in Perth. So if you need the absolute fastest connection to Australia specifically, PIA might have a tiny edge. On short nearby connections, both are extremely fast and you likely won’t notice any difference in day-to-day use. The gap becomes more obvious the further away your target server is.
Gaming note: ExpressVPN’s lower latency on Lightway also gives it a slight edge for gaming. In testing, ExpressVPN averaged around 29 ms ping on local servers versus PIA’s 32 ms. For competitive gaming, that consistency matters — though both are well under the 100 ms threshold for smooth gameplay.
Streaming Comparison: ExpressVPN Wins Clearly
This is where the gap between the two VPNs is most obvious. If you watch a lot of geo-blocked content, ExpressVPN is in a different league from PIA.
| Streaming Platform | ExpressVPN | PIA |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix US | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Netflix (other libraries) | ✅ 20+ libraries | ❌ Very limited |
| BBC iPlayer | ✅ Yes | ❌ Inconsistent |
| Disney+ | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| HBO Max | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Hulu | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | ✅ Yes | ❌ Hit or miss |
| ESPN | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Sky TV | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| DAZN | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Smart DNS (non-VPN devices) | ✅ MediaStreamer | ⚠️ Unreliable |
ExpressVPN consistently unblocks more streaming platforms with greater reliability. In my testing, it accessed over 20 Netflix libraries — including the US, UK, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and Switzerland — without any special configuration. Every server supports streaming, not just dedicated ones.
PIA’s streaming-optimized servers work for some services but are hit-or-miss. BBC iPlayer sometimes works, sometimes doesn’t. I couldn’t reliably access DAZN, ESPN, or Sky TV through PIA in my tests.
One standout ExpressVPN feature is its MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) — this lets you watch geo-blocked content on devices that don’t support VPN apps, like Apple TV, gaming consoles, and smart TVs. PIA has a Smart DNS option too, but in my experience it’s less reliable and covers fewer platforms.
If streaming is your main reason for getting a VPN, ExpressVPN is the obvious choice here. PIA can handle Netflix US and a handful of other services, but it’s unreliable beyond that. I’d also point you to my best VPN for Amazon Prime Video guide and my best VPN for Firestick guide for more streaming-focused comparisons.
Security Comparison: Both Are Excellent — PIA Offers More Control
Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption and offer kill switches, IP/DNS leak protection, and RAM-only servers. But they take different approaches to security.
| Security Feature | ExpressVPN | PIA |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM (SHA-512 hashing) | AES-128 or AES-256-GCM (configurable) |
| Protocols | Lightway (UDP/TCP), OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Kill switch | ✅ All platforms | ✅ Advanced kill switch option |
| RAM-only servers | ✅ Yes (TrustedServer) | ✅ Yes |
| Multi-hop (double VPN) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (SOCKS5 + Shadowsocks) |
| Ad/malware blocker | ✅ Threat Manager (~58% block rate) | ✅ MACE (~97% block rate) |
| Obfuscation | ✅ Stealth servers (automatic) | ✅ Shadowsocks |
| Dedicated IP | ✅ Available (add-on) | ✅ Available (add-on) |
| Port forwarding | Router only (unencrypted) | ✅ In-app (encrypted) |
ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol uses SHA-512 hashing — a higher standard than PIA’s default implementations. Its TrustedServer technology (RAM-only servers) means zero persistent data survives a reboot. And its automatic obfuscation via Stealth servers is more seamless than manually configuring PIA’s Shadowsocks.
However, PIA wins on sheer depth of security customization. Its MACE ad blocker blocked 97% of ads, trackers, and malware in my tests — compared to about 58% with ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager. PIA also supports true multi-hop routing (routing your connection through multiple servers), which ExpressVPN doesn’t offer at all. And PIA’s in-app port forwarding keeps your torrenting connection encrypted, which ExpressVPN’s router-only implementation doesn’t.
For most people, ExpressVPN’s security is more than sufficient and more polished. For advanced users who want granular control, PIA’s toolbox is genuinely impressive.
Privacy Comparison: ExpressVPN Has the Jurisdiction Advantage
Both VPNs have audited no-logs policies. Neither stores your browsing history, IP address, connection timestamps, or traffic data. But there’s an important jurisdictional difference.
ExpressVPN privacy strengths
- Headquartered in British Virgin Islands — outside 5/9/14-Eyes alliances
- No mandatory data retention laws apply
- 19+ independent audits (KPMG, PwC, Cure53)
- Server seizure by Turkish authorities found zero usable data
- RAM-only TrustedServer infrastructure
- Lightway protocol is open source
PIA privacy strengths
- Audited no-logs policy (Deloitte 2022 and 2024)
- Court-proven: subpoenas returned no usable user data
- RAM-only servers across the network
- Open-source apps — full code transparency
- Quarterly transparency reports published publicly
- Cryptocurrency payment accepted
The key concern with PIA is its US headquarters. As a 5-Eyes alliance member, the US government has broader legal authority to compel data disclosures from companies operating there. PIA has proven it has nothing to hand over — but the legal pressure point exists in a way it doesn’t for ExpressVPN.
Also worth noting: PIA’s privacy policy states that personal data may be disclosed to members of its group of companies (Kape Technologies). This is standard boilerplate for multi-brand tech groups, but it’s something to be aware of.
Kape Technologies disclosure: Both ExpressVPN and PIA are owned by Kape Technologies, a company that has faced scrutiny over its past in the adware business (formerly Crossrider). The company has since pivoted to VPNs and made significant investments in privacy practices. I mention this for full transparency — both services have independently verified no-logs policies, but informed readers should know the ownership context. For the strongest possible privacy credentials, consider Proton VPN, which is independently owned.
Torrenting: PIA Is the Better Choice
Both VPNs support P2P on all servers, but PIA offers a significantly more complete torrenting toolkit.
| Torrenting Feature | ExpressVPN | PIA |
|---|---|---|
| P2P on all servers | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| SOCKS5 proxy | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Port forwarding (encrypted) | ❌ No (router only) | ✅ Yes (in-app) |
| Advanced kill switch | Standard kill switch | ✅ Advanced (blocks all internet until VPN connects) |
| Multi-hop obfuscation | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Shadowsocks) |
| No-logs verified | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
PIA’s SOCKS5 proxy lets you bind directly to your torrent client for better performance. Its in-app port forwarding improves download speeds and seedability, while keeping the connection fully encrypted — something ExpressVPN’s router-only port forwarding doesn’t do. And PIA’s Advanced Kill Switch blocks your entire internet connection until the VPN is fully established, ensuring you never accidentally torrent on an unsecured connection.
ExpressVPN is perfectly capable for casual torrenting. But if P2P is a major use case for you, PIA is clearly the better-equipped tool.
Ease of Use: ExpressVPN Is Much Simpler
If you’re new to VPNs or just want something that works without configuration, ExpressVPN wins this category comfortably. The app is clean, minimal, and intuitive across every platform. One click connects you to the fastest server. The settings panel is uncluttered. Setup on any device takes minutes.
PIA’s app is a different experience. It has two display modes — a compact view and an expanded technical view — and the expanded version shows a lot of settings that can feel overwhelming for newcomers. That said, power users will appreciate the control. You can adjust encryption levels, switch protocols, configure multi-hop, set automation rules, customize the interface layout, and much more.
ExpressVPN also has a significant edge with router support. It provides custom firmware for popular routers, making whole-home VPN coverage much easier to set up. PIA supports router installation but requires manual configuration.
Browser extensions: ExpressVPN’s browser extension acts as a full remote control for the main app, adding features like geolocation spoofing, HTTPS Everywhere, and WebRTC leak protection. PIA’s extensions are proxy-only and don’t provide the same level of encryption. ExpressVPN supports Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi — PIA covers Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.
Server Networks: Different Approaches
PIA has far more servers — over 35,000 versus ExpressVPN’s 3,000+ — but ExpressVPN covers more countries (105 versus 90).
In practice, PIA’s massive server count means less congestion risk in popular locations, particularly across the United States where it has servers in all 50 states. ExpressVPN’s smaller but more globally spread network means it’s more consistently available in less common locations.
Both offer virtual servers for expanded coverage in VPN-restrictive regions. PIA also operates a set of self-owned co-located servers (NextGen servers), which offer stronger privacy by eliminating third-party server rental relationships. ExpressVPN uses a mix of owned and rented infrastructure.
China Compatibility
Both VPNs can work in China, but ExpressVPN is more reliable there. Its Stealth servers automatically activate obfuscation when deep packet inspection is detected — meaning you don’t have to manually configure anything. PIA requires you to manually set up Shadowsocks for obfuscation.
Both provide servers in Macau, which is geographically in China but not subject to the Great Firewall. If you’re planning to travel to mainland China, I’d recommend ExpressVPN for a more reliable experience. Note that connections in China can be unstable for any VPN, so test before committing.
Customer Support: ExpressVPN Is Faster and More Accessible
Both services offer 24/7 live chat support and comprehensive knowledge bases. But there are meaningful differences in experience.
With ExpressVPN, I was connected to a human support agent within about 60 seconds directly from the app or website. The responses were detailed, accurate, and helpful. The knowledge base is well-organized and regularly updated.
PIA’s support requires navigating to a separate support portal, and you’ll interact with a bot before reaching a human agent. In my tests, resolution times were slower and I encountered one instance where the agent couldn’t resolve a WireGuard configuration issue. The knowledge base is solid but less polished.
ExpressVPN vs PIA: Which Should You Choose?
Choose ExpressVPN if you want:
- The fastest speeds and lowest latency
- Reliable access to 20+ Netflix libraries and other streaming platforms
- The simplest, most beginner-friendly experience
- Better privacy jurisdiction (British Virgin Islands, outside 5-Eyes)
- Easy router setup with custom firmware
- Automatic obfuscation that just works in China
- Stronger customer support
Choose PIA if you want:
- The lowest price on a long-term plan
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- A superior torrenting toolkit (SOCKS5, port forwarding, multi-hop)
- Granular security customization (encryption levels, ports, MTU)
- MACE ad blocker (best I’ve tested at 97% block rate)
- Open-source apps with full code transparency
- Cryptocurrency payment for anonymous subscription
My honest recommendation: For most people, ExpressVPN is the better all-around choice — faster, more reliable for streaming, easier to use, and headquartered in a more privacy-friendly jurisdiction. But if you’re primarily torrenting, want to cover unlimited devices, or are on a tight budget, PIA at $1.59/mo is exceptional value and doesn’t cut corners on the fundamentals.
For my top overall VPN recommendation, I’d actually point you to Surfshark — it edges out both of these at a similar price to PIA, with faster speeds than either and no device limit. You can also read my Surfshark vs NordVPN comparison for another popular head-to-head.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ExpressVPN better than PIA overall?
In most categories, yes — ExpressVPN wins on speed, streaming reliability, ease of use, and privacy jurisdiction. However, PIA wins on price, simultaneous connections, and torrenting features. “Better” depends entirely on your use case. If you primarily torrent and want to cover unlimited devices cheaply, PIA is arguably the smarter purchase.
Are ExpressVPN and PIA owned by the same company?
Yes — both are owned by Kape Technologies, a holding company that also owns CyberGhost. Despite shared ownership, they are managed by separate teams and serve different market segments. Both have independently audited no-logs policies. It’s worth knowing the ownership context, especially if privacy is your top priority — in which case a fully independent VPN like Proton VPN may be more suitable.
Can PIA unblock Netflix?
PIA can reliably unblock Netflix US, and sometimes a handful of other libraries. However, it’s inconsistent with international Netflix libraries and fails to unblock several platforms that ExpressVPN handles easily (like BBC iPlayer, ESPN, DAZN, and Sky TV). If streaming is a priority, ExpressVPN is significantly more capable.
Does PIA keep logs?
No. PIA operates a strict no-logs policy, independently audited by Deloitte in 2022 and 2024. More importantly, PIA’s no-logs claims have been tested in real-world court cases — when law enforcement agencies served subpoenas, PIA had no usable data to produce. That said, its US headquarters means it operates under 5-Eyes jurisdiction, which is worth considering for high-stakes privacy use cases.
Which VPN is better for torrenting — ExpressVPN or PIA?
PIA is clearly better for torrenting. It supports SOCKS5 proxy, in-app port forwarding with full encryption, an advanced kill switch, and multi-hop obfuscation through Shadowsocks. ExpressVPN supports P2P on all servers and has decent speeds, but lacks in-app port forwarding and SOCKS5. For serious P2P users, PIA is the superior choice.
Does ExpressVPN work in China?
ExpressVPN is generally more reliable in China than PIA. Its Stealth servers automatically apply obfuscation to disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic when deep packet inspection is detected. PIA can work in China using Shadowsocks, but requires manual configuration. Neither VPN can guarantee 100% uptime in China, as the Great Firewall is constantly updated.
Which VPN is cheaper — ExpressVPN or PIA?
PIA is significantly cheaper. Its best long-term plan comes in at $1.59/month on the 3-year plan, versus ExpressVPN at $2.79/month on the 2-year plan. PIA also allows unlimited simultaneous connections, which increases its per-device value further. For budget-conscious users, PIA offers considerably more bang for your buck.
What are the best alternatives to ExpressVPN and PIA?
My top recommendation for most people is Surfshark — it offers the fastest speeds I’ve tested (~95% retention), unlimited devices, and excellent streaming support at a price closer to PIA than ExpressVPN. NordVPN is another strong contender if you want a large server network and strong security features. And for the best privacy credentials, Proton VPN is independently owned and based in Switzerland.
How many devices can I use with ExpressVPN vs PIA?
ExpressVPN allows up to 14 simultaneous connections per subscription. PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections. If you’re covering a large household or multiple devices, PIA has a clear advantage here — especially at its lower price point.
Read Next
- Surfshark Review — My #1 Pick for 2026
- Full ExpressVPN Review
- Full PIA Review
- NordVPN Review
- Proton VPN Review — Best for Privacy
- Surfshark vs NordVPN — Head to Head
- Best VPN for Amazon Prime Video
- Latest ExpressVPN Coupon Codes
- Latest PIA Coupon Codes
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I’ve spent the last several months testing both ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA) across multiple devices, use cases, and locations. Both are owned by Kape Technologies, yet they feel like completely different products built for different types of users.
The short version: ExpressVPN is faster, easier to use, and better for streaming — but you pay more for it. PIA is more affordable, more customizable, and allows unlimited simultaneous connections — but it requires more technical know-how and falls short in a few key areas.
In this full breakdown, I’ll compare both VPNs on speed, privacy, streaming, security, price, and more — so you can decide which one actually fits your needs in 2026.
Quick note on ownership: Both ExpressVPN and PIA are owned by Kape Technologies. Despite that shared ownership, they are managed by separate teams and serve quite different user profiles. I’ll factor this into the privacy analysis below.
ExpressVPN vs PIA: At a Glance
| Feature | ExpressVPN | PIA (Private Internet Access) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Streaming, ease of use, speed | Budget users, power users, torrenting |
| Price (best plan) | $2.79/mo (2-year) | $1.59/mo (3-year) |
| Speed retention | ~91% | ~85% |
| Servers | 3,000+ in 105 countries | 35,000+ in 90 countries |
| Simultaneous connections | 14 | Unlimited |
| Protocols | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Headquarters | British Virgin Islands | United States (5-Eyes) |
| No-logs audited? | Yes (KPMG, PwC) | Yes (Deloitte) |
| Streaming | Excellent (20+ Netflix libraries) | Good (limited libraries) |
| Torrenting | Good (all servers) | Excellent (SOCKS5, port forwarding) |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| My verdict | Best overall performance | Best value & customization |
Quick Verdicts
Best for Streaming & Speed
ExpressVPN — My verdict
The easiest, fastest, and most reliable VPN I’ve tested. ExpressVPN excels at unblocking streaming services and delivering consistent speeds across the globe — but you pay a premium for it.
- Fastest VPN I’ve tested — ~91% speed retention
- Unblocks 20+ Netflix libraries reliably
- Lightway protocol: faster and lighter than WireGuard
- British Virgin Islands HQ — outside 5-Eyes surveillance
- 19+ independent security audits
- Easiest to use — great for beginners
- More expensive than PIA
- Only 14 simultaneous connections (PIA has unlimited)
- No multi-hop (double VPN) feature
- Kape Technologies ownership worth noting
Best for Value & Power Users
PIA — My verdict
One of the most affordable premium VPNs out there. PIA shines for power users who want granular control, unlimited connections, and excellent torrenting — just don’t expect the same streaming reliability as ExpressVPN.
- Cheapest long-term plan — $1.59/mo (3-year)
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- SOCKS5 proxy + port forwarding for torrenting
- MACE ad blocker blocks 97% of ads in my tests
- Multi-hop (double VPN) support
- Massive server network: 35,000+ servers
- Based in the US — 5-Eyes surveillance alliance member
- Slower than ExpressVPN, especially on long-distance servers
- Inconsistent streaming — fewer Netflix libraries
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Kape Technologies ownership worth noting
Price Comparison: PIA Wins on Cost
This one isn’t close. PIA is consistently cheaper across every plan length.
| Plan | ExpressVPN | PIA |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $12.99/mo | $11.95/mo |
| 1-year | $4.99/mo | $3.33/mo |
| Best long-term deal | $2.79/mo (2-year + 4 mo free) | $1.59/mo (3-year + 3 mo free) |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| Simultaneous devices | 14 | Unlimited |
The gap becomes even more significant when you factor in device connections. PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription — meaning one account can cover your entire household. ExpressVPN caps you at 14, which is still generous but nowhere near unlimited.
Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees, and both accept credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrency. PIA even offers a 7-day free trial on Android and iOS.
My take: If budget is your primary concern, PIA is the clear winner. You get a premium VPN at a fraction of the cost — plus unlimited device coverage. That said, the premium you pay for ExpressVPN does translate into real-world performance advantages, as I’ll show below.
Speed Comparison: ExpressVPN Is Faster
In my testing, ExpressVPN retained approximately 91% of my baseline speeds, while PIA came in at around 85%. That gap widens significantly on long-distance server connections.
The reason ExpressVPN consistently wins on speed comes down to one thing: Lightway. This is ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, built specifically to strip out unnecessary code and deliver faster, more reliable connections. PIA uses WireGuard — which is excellent open-source technology — but it simply can’t match what Lightway achieves in real-world conditions.
| Server Location | ExpressVPN Download | PIA Download |
|---|---|---|
| Local (nearby) | ~724 Mbps | ~568 Mbps |
| London, UK | ~573 Mbps | ~507 Mbps |
| New York, US | ~468 Mbps | ~433 Mbps |
| Perth, Australia | ~382 Mbps | ~405 Mbps |
| Tokyo, Japan | ~301 Mbps | ~302 Mbps |
A few interesting observations from these results. ExpressVPN generally wins across the board — but PIA actually edges it out slightly in Perth. So if you need the absolute fastest connection to Australia specifically, PIA might have a tiny edge. On short nearby connections, both are extremely fast and you likely won’t notice any difference in day-to-day use. The gap becomes more obvious the further away your target server is.
Gaming note: ExpressVPN’s lower latency on Lightway also gives it a slight edge for gaming. In testing, ExpressVPN averaged around 29 ms ping on local servers versus PIA’s 32 ms. For competitive gaming, that consistency matters — though both are well under the 100 ms threshold for smooth gameplay.
Streaming Comparison: ExpressVPN Wins Clearly
This is where the gap between the two VPNs is most obvious. If you watch a lot of geo-blocked content, ExpressVPN is in a different league from PIA.
| Streaming Platform | ExpressVPN | PIA |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix US | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Netflix (other libraries) | ✅ 20+ libraries | ❌ Very limited |
| BBC iPlayer | ✅ Yes | ❌ Inconsistent |
| Disney+ | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| HBO Max | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Hulu | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | ✅ Yes | ❌ Hit or miss |
| ESPN | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Sky TV | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| DAZN | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Smart DNS (non-VPN devices) | ✅ MediaStreamer | ⚠️ Unreliable |
ExpressVPN consistently unblocks more streaming platforms with greater reliability. In my testing, it accessed over 20 Netflix libraries — including the US, UK, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and Switzerland — without any special configuration. Every server supports streaming, not just dedicated ones.
PIA’s streaming-optimized servers work for some services but are hit-or-miss. BBC iPlayer sometimes works, sometimes doesn’t. I couldn’t reliably access DAZN, ESPN, or Sky TV through PIA in my tests.
One standout ExpressVPN feature is its MediaStreamer (Smart DNS) — this lets you watch geo-blocked content on devices that don’t support VPN apps, like Apple TV, gaming consoles, and smart TVs. PIA has a Smart DNS option too, but in my experience it’s less reliable and covers fewer platforms.
If streaming is your main reason for getting a VPN, ExpressVPN is the obvious choice here. PIA can handle Netflix US and a handful of other services, but it’s unreliable beyond that. I’d also point you to my best VPN for Amazon Prime Video guide and my best VPN for Firestick guide for more streaming-focused comparisons.
Security Comparison: Both Are Excellent — PIA Offers More Control
Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption and offer kill switches, IP/DNS leak protection, and RAM-only servers. But they take different approaches to security.
| Security Feature | ExpressVPN | PIA |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM (SHA-512 hashing) | AES-128 or AES-256-GCM (configurable) |
| Protocols | Lightway (UDP/TCP), OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Kill switch | ✅ All platforms | ✅ Advanced kill switch option |
| RAM-only servers | ✅ Yes (TrustedServer) | ✅ Yes |
| Multi-hop (double VPN) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (SOCKS5 + Shadowsocks) |
| Ad/malware blocker | ✅ Threat Manager (~58% block rate) | ✅ MACE (~97% block rate) |
| Obfuscation | ✅ Stealth servers (automatic) | ✅ Shadowsocks |
| Dedicated IP | ✅ Available (add-on) | ✅ Available (add-on) |
| Port forwarding | Router only (unencrypted) | ✅ In-app (encrypted) |
ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol uses SHA-512 hashing — a higher standard than PIA’s default implementations. Its TrustedServer technology (RAM-only servers) means zero persistent data survives a reboot. And its automatic obfuscation via Stealth servers is more seamless than manually configuring PIA’s Shadowsocks.
However, PIA wins on sheer depth of security customization. Its MACE ad blocker blocked 97% of ads, trackers, and malware in my tests — compared to about 58% with ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager. PIA also supports true multi-hop routing (routing your connection through multiple servers), which ExpressVPN doesn’t offer at all. And PIA’s in-app port forwarding keeps your torrenting connection encrypted, which ExpressVPN’s router-only implementation doesn’t.
For most people, ExpressVPN’s security is more than sufficient and more polished. For advanced users who want granular control, PIA’s toolbox is genuinely impressive.
Privacy Comparison: ExpressVPN Has the Jurisdiction Advantage
Both VPNs have audited no-logs policies. Neither stores your browsing history, IP address, connection timestamps, or traffic data. But there’s an important jurisdictional difference.
ExpressVPN privacy strengths
- Headquartered in British Virgin Islands — outside 5/9/14-Eyes alliances
- No mandatory data retention laws apply
- 19+ independent audits (KPMG, PwC, Cure53)
- Server seizure by Turkish authorities found zero usable data
- RAM-only TrustedServer infrastructure
- Lightway protocol is open source
PIA privacy strengths
- Audited no-logs policy (Deloitte 2022 and 2024)
- Court-proven: subpoenas returned no usable user data
- RAM-only servers across the network
- Open-source apps — full code transparency
- Quarterly transparency reports published publicly
- Cryptocurrency payment accepted
The key concern with PIA is its US headquarters. As a 5-Eyes alliance member, the US government has broader legal authority to compel data disclosures from companies operating there. PIA has proven it has nothing to hand over — but the legal pressure point exists in a way it doesn’t for ExpressVPN.
Also worth noting: PIA’s privacy policy states that personal data may be disclosed to members of its group of companies (Kape Technologies). This is standard boilerplate for multi-brand tech groups, but it’s something to be aware of.
Kape Technologies disclosure: Both ExpressVPN and PIA are owned by Kape Technologies, a company that has faced scrutiny over its past in the adware business (formerly Crossrider). The company has since pivoted to VPNs and made significant investments in privacy practices. I mention this for full transparency — both services have independently verified no-logs policies, but informed readers should know the ownership context. For the strongest possible privacy credentials, consider Proton VPN, which is independently owned.
Torrenting: PIA Is the Better Choice
Both VPNs support P2P on all servers, but PIA offers a significantly more complete torrenting toolkit.
| Torrenting Feature | ExpressVPN | PIA |
|---|---|---|
| P2P on all servers | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| SOCKS5 proxy | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Port forwarding (encrypted) | ❌ No (router only) | ✅ Yes (in-app) |
| Advanced kill switch | Standard kill switch | ✅ Advanced (blocks all internet until VPN connects) |
| Multi-hop obfuscation | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Shadowsocks) |
| No-logs verified | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
PIA’s SOCKS5 proxy lets you bind directly to your torrent client for better performance. Its in-app port forwarding improves download speeds and seedability, while keeping the connection fully encrypted — something ExpressVPN’s router-only port forwarding doesn’t do. And PIA’s Advanced Kill Switch blocks your entire internet connection until the VPN is fully established, ensuring you never accidentally torrent on an unsecured connection.
ExpressVPN is perfectly capable for casual torrenting. But if P2P is a major use case for you, PIA is clearly the better-equipped tool.
Ease of Use: ExpressVPN Is Much Simpler
If you’re new to VPNs or just want something that works without configuration, ExpressVPN wins this category comfortably. The app is clean, minimal, and intuitive across every platform. One click connects you to the fastest server. The settings panel is uncluttered. Setup on any device takes minutes.
PIA’s app is a different experience. It has two display modes — a compact view and an expanded technical view — and the expanded version shows a lot of settings that can feel overwhelming for newcomers. That said, power users will appreciate the control. You can adjust encryption levels, switch protocols, configure multi-hop, set automation rules, customize the interface layout, and much more.
ExpressVPN also has a significant edge with router support. It provides custom firmware for popular routers, making whole-home VPN coverage much easier to set up. PIA supports router installation but requires manual configuration.
Browser extensions: ExpressVPN’s browser extension acts as a full remote control for the main app, adding features like geolocation spoofing, HTTPS Everywhere, and WebRTC leak protection. PIA’s extensions are proxy-only and don’t provide the same level of encryption. ExpressVPN supports Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi — PIA covers Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.
Server Networks: Different Approaches
PIA has far more servers — over 35,000 versus ExpressVPN’s 3,000+ — but ExpressVPN covers more countries (105 versus 90).
In practice, PIA’s massive server count means less congestion risk in popular locations, particularly across the United States where it has servers in all 50 states. ExpressVPN’s smaller but more globally spread network means it’s more consistently available in less common locations.
Both offer virtual servers for expanded coverage in VPN-restrictive regions. PIA also operates a set of self-owned co-located servers (NextGen servers), which offer stronger privacy by eliminating third-party server rental relationships. ExpressVPN uses a mix of owned and rented infrastructure.
China Compatibility
Both VPNs can work in China, but ExpressVPN is more reliable there. Its Stealth servers automatically activate obfuscation when deep packet inspection is detected — meaning you don’t have to manually configure anything. PIA requires you to manually set up Shadowsocks for obfuscation.
Both provide servers in Macau, which is geographically in China but not subject to the Great Firewall. If you’re planning to travel to mainland China, I’d recommend ExpressVPN for a more reliable experience. Note that connections in China can be unstable for any VPN, so test before committing.
Customer Support: ExpressVPN Is Faster and More Accessible
Both services offer 24/7 live chat support and comprehensive knowledge bases. But there are meaningful differences in experience.
With ExpressVPN, I was connected to a human support agent within about 60 seconds directly from the app or website. The responses were detailed, accurate, and helpful. The knowledge base is well-organized and regularly updated.
PIA’s support requires navigating to a separate support portal, and you’ll interact with a bot before reaching a human agent. In my tests, resolution times were slower and I encountered one instance where the agent couldn’t resolve a WireGuard configuration issue. The knowledge base is solid but less polished.
ExpressVPN vs PIA: Which Should You Choose?
Choose ExpressVPN if you want:
- The fastest speeds and lowest latency
- Reliable access to 20+ Netflix libraries and other streaming platforms
- The simplest, most beginner-friendly experience
- Better privacy jurisdiction (British Virgin Islands, outside 5-Eyes)
- Easy router setup with custom firmware
- Automatic obfuscation that just works in China
- Stronger customer support
Choose PIA if you want:
- The lowest price on a long-term plan
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- A superior torrenting toolkit (SOCKS5, port forwarding, multi-hop)
- Granular security customization (encryption levels, ports, MTU)
- MACE ad blocker (best I’ve tested at 97% block rate)
- Open-source apps with full code transparency
- Cryptocurrency payment for anonymous subscription
My honest recommendation: For most people, ExpressVPN is the better all-around choice — faster, more reliable for streaming, easier to use, and headquartered in a more privacy-friendly jurisdiction. But if you’re primarily torrenting, want to cover unlimited devices, or are on a tight budget, PIA at $1.59/mo is exceptional value and doesn’t cut corners on the fundamentals.
For my top overall VPN recommendation, I’d actually point you to Surfshark — it edges out both of these at a similar price to PIA, with faster speeds than either and no device limit. You can also read my Surfshark vs NordVPN comparison for another popular head-to-head.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ExpressVPN better than PIA overall?
In most categories, yes — ExpressVPN wins on speed, streaming reliability, ease of use, and privacy jurisdiction. However, PIA wins on price, simultaneous connections, and torrenting features. “Better” depends entirely on your use case. If you primarily torrent and want to cover unlimited devices cheaply, PIA is arguably the smarter purchase.
Are ExpressVPN and PIA owned by the same company?
Yes — both are owned by Kape Technologies, a holding company that also owns CyberGhost. Despite shared ownership, they are managed by separate teams and serve different market segments. Both have independently audited no-logs policies. It’s worth knowing the ownership context, especially if privacy is your top priority — in which case a fully independent VPN like Proton VPN may be more suitable.
Can PIA unblock Netflix?
PIA can reliably unblock Netflix US, and sometimes a handful of other libraries. However, it’s inconsistent with international Netflix libraries and fails to unblock several platforms that ExpressVPN handles easily (like BBC iPlayer, ESPN, DAZN, and Sky TV). If streaming is a priority, ExpressVPN is significantly more capable.
Does PIA keep logs?
No. PIA operates a strict no-logs policy, independently audited by Deloitte in 2022 and 2024. More importantly, PIA’s no-logs claims have been tested in real-world court cases — when law enforcement agencies served subpoenas, PIA had no usable data to produce. That said, its US headquarters means it operates under 5-Eyes jurisdiction, which is worth considering for high-stakes privacy use cases.
Which VPN is better for torrenting — ExpressVPN or PIA?
PIA is clearly better for torrenting. It supports SOCKS5 proxy, in-app port forwarding with full encryption, an advanced kill switch, and multi-hop obfuscation through Shadowsocks. ExpressVPN supports P2P on all servers and has decent speeds, but lacks in-app port forwarding and SOCKS5. For serious P2P users, PIA is the superior choice.
Does ExpressVPN work in China?
ExpressVPN is generally more reliable in China than PIA. Its Stealth servers automatically apply obfuscation to disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic when deep packet inspection is detected. PIA can work in China using Shadowsocks, but requires manual configuration. Neither VPN can guarantee 100% uptime in China, as the Great Firewall is constantly updated.
Which VPN is cheaper — ExpressVPN or PIA?
PIA is significantly cheaper. Its best long-term plan comes in at $1.59/month on the 3-year plan, versus ExpressVPN at $2.79/month on the 2-year plan. PIA also allows unlimited simultaneous connections, which increases its per-device value further. For budget-conscious users, PIA offers considerably more bang for your buck.
What are the best alternatives to ExpressVPN and PIA?
My top recommendation for most people is Surfshark — it offers the fastest speeds I’ve tested (~95% retention), unlimited devices, and excellent streaming support at a price closer to PIA than ExpressVPN. NordVPN is another strong contender if you want a large server network and strong security features. And for the best privacy credentials, Proton VPN is independently owned and based in Switzerland.
How many devices can I use with ExpressVPN vs PIA?
ExpressVPN allows up to 14 simultaneous connections per subscription. PIA allows unlimited simultaneous connections. If you’re covering a large household or multiple devices, PIA has a clear advantage here — especially at its lower price point.
Read Next
- Surfshark Review — My #1 Pick for 2026
- Full ExpressVPN Review
- Full PIA Review
- NordVPN Review
- Proton VPN Review — Best for Privacy
- Surfshark vs NordVPN — Head to Head
- Best VPN for Amazon Prime Video
- Latest ExpressVPN Coupon Codes
- Latest PIA Coupon Codes
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