VPN · Head to head
Private Internet Access vs ExpressVPN: which is better?
Short answer
Private Internet Access costs less in the first year ($24.36 vs $35.88). Pick Private Internet Access for VPN with unlimited simultaneous devices; pick ExpressVPN for premium VPN with identity protection.
| Fact | Private Internet Access | ExpressVPN | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | VPN with unlimited simultaneous devices | Premium VPN with identity protection | — |
| Free plan | No | No | Tie |
| Entry plan | 1 Year: $3.99 / mo | Basic: $2.99 / mo | ExpressVPN |
| Mid plan | 3 Years + 3 Months: $2.03 / mo | Advanced: $4.49 / mo | Private Internet Access |
| Top plan | 3 Years + 3 Months: $2.03 / mo | Express Pro: $7.49 / mo | Private Internet Access |
| 1st year | $24.36 | $35.88 | Private Internet Access |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Chrome extension, Firefox extension | Web | Private Internet Access |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Private Internet Access or ExpressVPN?
Private Internet Access costs less in the first year ($24.36 vs $35.88).
| 1st year | Private Internet Access | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $47.88 | $35.88 |
| Mid | $24.36 | $53.88 |
| Top | $24.36 | $89.88 |
Which has the better free plan, Private Internet Access or ExpressVPN?
Neither stands out: Private Internet Access: No; ExpressVPN: No.
Should you pick Private Internet Access or ExpressVPN?
Pick Private Internet Access if
- you want VPN with unlimited simultaneous devices
- you can pay $2.03 / mo from day one
Pick ExpressVPN if
- you want premium VPN with identity protection
- you can pay $2.99 / mo from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Private Internet Access pricing | privateinternetaccess.com/buy-vpn-online | 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