ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA) are two well-established VPN providers that share a number of core features while differing significantly in areas that matter to privacy-conscious users. Both services offer WireGuard protocol support, a kill switch, split tunneling, P2P and torrenting compatibility, and a bug bounty program, making them comparable on paper from a feature standpoint. However, their scores across key categories reveal meaningful distinctions worth examining.
ExpressVPN earns a higher overall score in performance-related areas, achieving a perfect 100% in speeds and streaming, compared to PIA's scores of 80% and 100% respectively. For users whose primary concern is raw connection speed or reliable access to streaming platforms, ExpressVPN's tested results place it ahead in those specific areas. Its graphical interface also scores notably well at 90%, suggesting a more polished user experience than PIA's 70% in the same category.
Where PIA pulls ahead is in privacy and overall value. PIA's privacy audit score of 62% is substantially higher than ExpressVPN's 23%, indicating a stronger verified track record in independent privacy assessments. PIA also holds a higher overall score of 77% compared to ExpressVPN's 68%, driven in part by stronger application and privacy audit performance. Both providers score identically in customer support at 100% and share the same ethics score of 67%.
Jurisdiction is another factor users often weigh carefully. ExpressVPN operates out of the British Virgin Islands, a territory frequently cited as favorable for privacy due to the absence of mandatory data retention laws. PIA is based in the United States, which is part of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, a consideration that some privacy-focused users view with caution despite PIA's stronger audit scores.
In terms of pricing, exact monthly and annual figures were not available at the time of this comparison, though PIA's pricing category score of 64% edges out ExpressVPN's 55%, suggesting PIA offers comparatively better value based on tested assessments. Ultimately, users prioritizing speed and interface quality may lean toward ExpressVPN, while those focused on verified privacy practices and overall value may find PIA the more compelling option.