ExpressVPN Price—How Much Does the Top VPN Service Cost?
As cybercrime becomes harder to prevent, internet users are compelled to take new steps to bolster their online safety and privacy. One such protective measure is using virtual private networks (VPNs). Among the various VPN services available, ExpressVPN is a highly sought-after provider. But what is ExpressVPN’s price, and what does it get you?
This article will highlight the cost of securing your digital footprint with this VPN, providing a comprehensive overview of its pricing structure. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to safeguard your sensitive financial information, this article will also explain how virtual cards can cover you where a VPN can’t.
Disclaimer: The prices and features mentioned in this article are valid as of April 2024 and are subject to change.
ExpressVPN Subscription Models
ExpressVPN has three standard subscription models[1]:
- One-month plan
- Six-month plan
- Twelve-month plan
Here’s a breakdown of what each plan offers:
All ExpressVPN plans offer the same set of features, which include:
- AES-256 encryption—This advanced encryption standard protects users’ communication with ExpressVPN’s servers from potential eavesdroppers, including hackers and ISPs[2].
- Private DNS—ExpressVPN operates its own encrypted DNS on every server. This feature prevents DNS hijacking, blocking, and filtering, and it provides faster DNS queries[2].
- Network Lock kill switch—If a VPN connection unexpectedly drops, this feature blocks all internet traffic, reducing the risk of the user’s data leaking[2].
- No activity or connection logs—ExpressVPN commits to respecting user privacy by not logging traffic data, DNS queries, or any data third parties may use to identify its users[2].
- Multiple device connections—ExpressVPN allows users to connect up to eight devices simultaneously[2].
- Password manager—Users can generate, store, and autofill an unlimited number of passwords with ExpressVPN Keys[2].
ExpressVPN Money-Back Guarantees
ExpressVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee[3]. If a user finds that the service doesn’t meet their needs or preferences within this period, they can contact customer support to request a refund.
Subscriptions billed through the Apple App Store (iTunes) are not eligible for the ExpressVPN 30-day money-back guarantee[3]. Refund requests for these subscriptions need to be directed to the App Store and are granted at Apple Support’s discretion.
Discounts and Promotions
ExpressVPN offers two main incentives to users:
- Special deal for users on the 12-month plan
- Referral program
Special Deal for Users on the 12-Month Plan
ExpressVPN offers a special deal where users who opt for 12 months of service get an extra 3 months for free. This deal, which equates to a 49% discount off the regular monthly price, is the only discount for new customers at the time of writing[4].
ExpressVPN also runs seasonal promotions, including contests where users can win free VPN service. To stay on top of these promotions, the service provider advises users to subscribe to its newsletter.
Referral Program
Current ExpressVPN subscribers can benefit from the service’s referral program. For each successful referral, the referrer and the referred receive 30 days of free VPN service. There’s no limit to the number of referrals a user can make[4].
These promotions and discounts are subject to change, depending on the service’s terms and conditions.
Additional Costs When Using ExpressVPN
While most of the features ExpressVPN offers are included in its plans, users have to pay extra for additional benefits. For instance, if a user wants to connect more than eight devices at the same time, they need to purchase additional subscriptions[5]. Subscriptions purchased via Apple in-app are not eligible for additional subscriptions.
Users can also purchase multiple accounts, in which case they have to use a different email address from the one they’ve already signed up with.
Is Express VPN for Everyone?
Users who prioritize speed, security, and a user-friendly interface will find Express VPN a good fit. It supports a wide range of devices and has an extensive network across many countries.
ExpressVPN is generally priced higher than most other services[6], but it does offer a 35% discount to new customers who opt for a yearly plan. Still, budget-conscious users might consider checking other VPNs, such as:
Budget-Friendly Ways To Secure Your Sensitive Information
While using ExpressVPN will boost your online security and privacy, there are other ways to shore up your online defenses without breaking the bank. Some of the practices you could try include:
- Being wary of unsolicited communications—Be cautious of unexpected emails, messages, or calls that ask for personal information. These could be phishing attempts.
- Educating yourself—Stay informed about the latest scams, threats, and tactics used by cybercriminals. Consider reading cybersecurity guides, attending live webinars, and using resources provided by trusted cybersecurity firms.
- Being cautious when visiting websites—Access websites using a secure protocol, indicated by HTTPS, which encrypts the communication between your browser and the site. Always double-check the web address for misspellings that might denote a spoof website.
- Using virtual cards—A virtual card is a unique card number tied to a real source of funding, such as a debit card or your bank account. Using virtual cards helps protect your actual card details or bank account number even if a merchant’s servers become compromised. For the ultimate virtual card experience, consider an independent card provider like Privacy.
Use Privacy Cards To Protect Your Financial Information
Privacy is a BBB-accredited virtual card provider on a mission to help you protect your finances when making payments online. Each virtual card is connected to your bank account or debit card and comes with a unique number, CVV, and expiry date. You can use the cards whenever you want to shop online, knowing that your actual financial information is safe even if the merchant suffers a security breach.
Privacy employs various security measures to ensure the safety of your account and the information you provide when subscribing to the service. It supports two-factor authentication, uses split-key encryption for sensitive information, employs transaction monitoring, and undergoes regular third-party audits.
Privacy Card Types
Privacy offers two types of virtual cards:
- Single-Use Cards—These cards are designed for a single transaction. Shortly after the transaction is completed, the card number becomes invalid, preventing further charges and making the card useless to hackers who may steal it.
- Merchant-Locked Cards—These cards are “locked” to the first merchant you use them at. Any attempts to use it elsewhere will be declined, providing a safeguard against potentially unauthorized transactions.
Privacy allows you to set spending limits on your Privacy Cards, declining any charges that go over the limit. You can also pause or close a virtual card at any time, reducing the risk of accidental charges when canceling subscriptions.
Convenience Features
Privacy offers several features to facilitate smooth online transactions, such as:
- Mobile app—With the Privacy App, available on Android and iOS, you can effortlessly manage your virtual cards on the go.
- Browser extension—The Privacy Browser Extension, compatible with Firefox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Safari, and Safari for iOS, enables automatic filling of your virtual card details, streamlining your online shopping experience.
- Card sharing—Privacy's Shared Card feature allows the secure sharing of virtual card details with trusted individuals without exposing your actual card or bank information.
Privacy Plans and Their Features
Privacy offers three plans:
- Personal
- Pro
- Premium
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what each plan offers:
How To Get a Privacy Virtual Card
To get started with Privacy, all you have to do is:
- Register
- Provide the required information to verify your identity
- Add a funding source, which can be your bank account or debit card
- Request your first virtual card
Privacy Virtual Cards are available to U.S. residents over 18 who have a checking account at a U.S. bank or credit union. They can be used at most merchants that accept Visa® and Mastercard®, and you can use them internationally at merchants that accept U.S. debit or credit cards.
References
[1] ExpressVPN. https://www.expressvpn.com/order, sourced April 12, 2024
[2] ExpressVPN. https://www.expressvpn.com/features, sourced April 12, 2024
[3] ExpressVPN. https://www.expressvpn.com/features/money-back-guarantee, sourced April 12, 2024
[4] ExpressVPN. https://www.expressvpn.com/coupons, sourced April 12, 2024
[5] ExpressVPN. https://www.expressvpn.com/support/manage-account/buy-more-expressvpn-accounts, sourced April 12, 2024
[6] ExpressVPN. https://www.expressvpn.com/support/knowledge-hub/frequently-asked-questions/, sourced April 12, 2024
