VPN · Head to head
Hotspot Shield vs ExpressVPN: which is better?
Short answer
ExpressVPN costs less in the first year ($95.88 vs $35.88). Pick Hotspot Shield for VPN with a limited free plan; pick ExpressVPN for premium VPN with identity protection.
| Fact | Hotspot Shield | ExpressVPN | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | VPN with a limited free plan | Premium VPN with identity protection | — |
| Free plan | Yes, 2 Mbps, 500 MB daily, 1 location | No | Hotspot Shield |
| Entry plan | Premium: $7.99 / mo | Basic: $2.99 / mo | ExpressVPN |
| Mid plan | Premium Family: $11.99 / mo | Advanced: $4.49 / mo | ExpressVPN |
| Top plan | Premium Family: $11.99 / mo | Express Pro: $7.49 / mo | ExpressVPN |
| 1st year | $95.88 | $35.88 | ExpressVPN |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome extension | Web | Hotspot Shield |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Hotspot Shield or ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN costs less in the first year ($95.88 vs $35.88).
| 1st year | Hotspot Shield | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $95.88 | $35.88 |
| Mid | $143.88 | $53.88 |
| Top | $143.88 | $89.88 |
Which has the better free plan, Hotspot Shield or ExpressVPN?
Hotspot Shield: Yes, 2 Mbps, 500 MB daily, 1 location.
Should you pick Hotspot Shield or ExpressVPN?
Pick Hotspot Shield if
- you want VPN with a limited free plan
- the free plan is enough (2 Mbps, 500 MB daily, 1 location)
Pick ExpressVPN if
- you want premium VPN with identity protection
- you can pay $2.99 / mo from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Hotspot Shield pricing | hotspotshield.com/select-plan/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
| ExpressVPN pricing | expressvpn.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare