Mullvad VPN vs ExpressVPN
Mullvad VPN and ExpressVPN consistently rank among the top VPNs, but they take different approaches to security, speed, and features. After testing both extensively, I've found they each excel in distinct areas. ExpressVPN edges ahead with a 9.2/10 rating, but that doesn't mean it's the right choice for everyone.
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Quick Answer
ExpressVPN beats Mullvad VPN for most users. It scores 9.2/10 vs 8.5/10 and fastest vpn speeds we've tested. Choose Mullvad VPN if you need no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number.
Mullvad VPN
Privacy-first VPN with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing
Starting from
$4.75/mo
ExpressVPN
WinnerPremium VPN with fastest speeds and 105 countries
Starting from
$3.49/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Starting Price | $4.75/mo | $3.49/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Performance | ||
| Servers | 700+ | 3,000+ |
| Countries | 49 | 105 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 5 | 10-14 |
| Security | ||
| Kill Switch | ||
| No Logs Policy | ||
| Double VPN | ||
| RAM-Only Servers | ||
| Features | ||
| Split Tunneling | ||
| Streaming Support | ||
| Torrenting | ||
| Dedicated IP | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Mullvad VPN
- No personal information required - just a 16-digit account number
- Simple flat pricing of €5/month with no upsells
- RAM-only servers that don't retain data
- Post-quantum encryption support (DAITA)
- Accepts cash and cryptocurrency payments
- Partnership with Tor Project for Mullvad Browser
- All servers are 10-20 Gbps
- Doesn't work with Netflix or most streaming services
- Only 5 simultaneous device connections
- Smaller server network (700+ servers)
- No dedicated mobile apps features
ExpressVPN
- Fastest VPN speeds we've tested
- Servers in 105 countries
- Excellent for streaming all major platforms
- TrustedServer technology (RAM-only)
- 24/7 live chat support
- Works in China and other restricted regions
- Up to 14 simultaneous connections (Pro plan)
- Most expensive VPN option
- Tiered pricing structure
- No dedicated IP option
Key Difference
The key difference: Mullvad VPN offers double vpn while ExpressVPN provides streaming support. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Mullvad VPN
Choose Mullvad VPN if you prioritize no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number, or value simple flat pricing of €5/month with no upsells.
ExpressVPN
Choose ExpressVPN if you prioritize fastest vpn speeds we've tested, or value servers in 105 countries.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, ExpressVPN is our winner with a rating of 9.2/10 compared to Mullvad VPN's 8.5/10. ExpressVPN stands out for its fastest vpn speeds we've tested and servers in 105 countries. While Mullvad VPN is more affordable, ExpressVPN's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, Mullvad VPN remains an excellent choice if no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Switching VPNs is straightforward - just cancel your subscription and sign up for the new service. Both Mullvad VPN and ExpressVPN offer money-back guarantees, so you can try before fully committing. No data migration is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mullvad VPN better than ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN scores higher in our testing (9.2/10 vs 8.5/10). ExpressVPN excels at fastest vpn speeds we've tested, while Mullvad VPN is better for no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number.
Which is cheaper, Mullvad VPN or ExpressVPN?
Mullvad VPN is more affordable at $5.50/mo vs $12.99/mo. Mullvad VPN offers 58% savings.
Mullvad VPN vs ExpressVPN: which should I choose?
Choose Mullvad VPN if you prioritize no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number. Choose ExpressVPN if you need fastest vpn speeds we've tested. Both are solid vpns options.
What's the main difference between Mullvad VPN and ExpressVPN?
The main difference is Mullvad VPN offers privacy-first vpn with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing, while ExpressVPN focuses on premium vpn with fastest speeds and 105 countries.