If you’re shopping for ExpressVPN right now, chances are you’ve already seen their latest deal: 2 years + 4 months free. It’s a pretty generous offer, but if you’ve checked the site, you’ll notice something that might trip you up — there isn’t just one plan. There are three: Basic, Advanced, and Pro. And they all look… kind of similar at first glance.
As someone who’s used ExpressVPN across more airports, hotels, co-working spaces, and sketchy coffee shop networks than I can count, I’ve learned that these little differences actually matter a lot depending on how (and where) you use your VPN.
Let me break it all down — pricing, features, real-world performance — and tell you which plan actually gives you the best bang for your buck.
Quick Look: 2-Year ExpressVPN Plan Pricing (with 4 Months Free)
| Plan | Monthly Price (avg.) | Billed First Term (28 Months) | Renewal Price (Yearly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | $3.49/month | $97.72 | $99.95/year |
| Advanced | $4.49/month | $125.72 | $119.95/year |
| Pro | $7.49/month | $209.72 | $199.95/year |
Note: All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can cancel anytime during the first month and get your money back, no questions asked.
What Do You Actually Get with Each Plan?
I’ve used all three tiers extensively, and here’s how they stack up beyond just price.
1. Basic Plan – Budget-Friendly, But Missing a Few Things
If you want a solid VPN without all the bells and whistles, Basic is surprisingly powerful. You still get:
- Full access to ExpressVPN’s server network (105+ countries)
- Best-in-class speeds with the Lightway protocol
- 10 simultaneous connections
- Lite protection (blocks ads + malicious websites)
- Works on all devices (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, routers, etc.)
This is more than enough for casual users who just want to stream, browse privately, or bypass region blocks. I tested Basic while traveling with a couple of devices (laptop + phone + Fire TV Stick), and it ran smoothly.
Where it falls short: no password manager, no full tracker/ad/malware blocking, no dedicated IP option. If you want basic protection, Basic works — but you’ll eventually feel the limits if you use VPN daily.
2. Advanced Plan – The Sweet Spot for Most Users
This is the one I recommend most often — and the one I personally renewed for a second year.
Here’s what you get on top of the Basic plan:
- 12 simultaneous connections (not just 10)
- Advanced Protection (blocks trackers, adult sites, more malicious content)
- Password Manager (cross-device, unlimited logins)
- Works seamlessly across all devices and browsers
- eSIM support for 3 days (iOS only, travel bonus)
The Advanced tier nails that middle ground: stronger privacy tools, more flexibility, and still a really fair price ($4.49/month is hard to beat for what’s included). If you’re a remote worker, travel frequently, or just want extra layers of protection without spending too much, this is the one I’d go with.
It’s also great if you’re the “tech support” for your household. I had it running on six devices at home and another four while abroad — no hiccups.
3. Pro Plan – Premium Features, But Only If You Truly Need Them
I’ve tried the Pro plan in real-world conditions: working remotely from multiple continents, managing teams over VPN-secured networks, and testing streaming speeds from hotel Wi-Fi in five different countries. It’s solid. But it’s also not for everyone.
Here’s what makes the Pro tier different:
- 14 simultaneous connections (the most offered)
- Dedicated IP address (optional add-on – not available on Mac yet)
- Advanced Protection + full tracker blocking
- 5-day eSIM access on compatible iPhones
- 75% off Aircove VPN router (if you’re building a secure home network)
- Same top-tier speeds and server access as other plans
If you’re running a small business, managing multiple remote team members, or want a consistent IP address to avoid constant verification codes from apps and banks — the Pro tier has real advantages.
I used the dedicated IP in combination with Aircove and got zero interruptions while managing access to remote dashboards. It also helped avoid annoying login flags from services that freak out when your IP changes every hour.
That said, if you’re mostly just browsing, streaming, or using public Wi-Fi here and there, Pro might be overkill. You’re paying $209.72 for 28 months upfront, and unless you need the dedicated IP or have 12+ devices on the regular, it’s a bit like buying a sports car to run weekend errands.
My Verdict After Testing All Three Plans
If I had to sum it up based on performance, value, and flexibility:
| Plan | Best For… | Would I Recommend It? |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Casual users, minimal devices | Only if on a tight budget |
| Advanced | Regular users, travelers, remote workers | Best value overall |
| Pro | Power users, remote teams, IP control | If you know you need it |
From a price-to-feature perspective, Advanced is the one I come back to again and again. It nails that sweet spot — full protection, extra connections, password manager, and great speeds — all for under $130 for 28 months. That’s unbeatable.
And let’s not forget the 30-day money-back guarantee. You’ve got a full month to test whichever plan you choose, with absolutely no risk.
Here’s What I’d Do
I’ve used a ton of VPNs over the years, and ExpressVPN has consistently been one of the most reliable, fastest, and secure options out there. I’ve trusted it in dozens of countries and across every type of internet connection you can imagine — from luxury hotel broadband to barely-holding-it-together mobile hotspots.
Choosing the right plan just comes down to how often you use VPN and how many devices you want covered.
If you’re like most people, go with the Advanced plan — it’s the smartest long-term investment for everyday privacy, streaming, and security. If you’re managing a team or need a fixed IP, step it up to Pro. And if you just want the basics without extras, Basic will do the job.
Stay safe out there — and make sure your connection is one you can actually trust.
FAQ
Which ExpressVPN plan is best for streaming Netflix and other platforms?
The Advanced plan hits the sweet spot for streaming. It offers fast speeds, strong privacy features, and works flawlessly with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more — all for a reasonable price.
Is the Basic plan enough for daily VPN use?
Yes, if you only need to protect a few devices and don’t care about features like a password manager or advanced tracker blocking. But if you use VPNs often or on multiple devices, Advanced is a smarter choice.
What’s the benefit of a Dedicated IP in the Pro plan?
A dedicated IP gives you a consistent IP address that only you use. It helps avoid annoying verifications when logging into apps, banks, or remote systems. It’s great for businesses, freelancers, or frequent travelers.
Can I switch plans later if I change my mind?
Yes. ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, and you can also upgrade your plan later. Just reach out to their support — they’re super responsive in my experience.
