Proton VPN vs Express VPN: Which is More Secure?

Overview

Choosing between Proton VPN and Express VPN can feel tricky, especially when security is your top concern. Both are popular online privacy tools, but which one keeps you safer? In this article, we’ll break down their security features to help you decide.

Why Security Is Key for Online Privacy

Your online privacy matters. Every time you browse, shop, or stream, your data could be at risk. A good VPN acts like a shield, hiding your activity from hackers, advertisers, and even your internet provider. Security isn’t just a bonus—it’s the backbone of any VPN worth using. So, let’s see how Proton VPN and Express VPN stack up in this critical area.

Encryption: The First Line of Defense

Encryption scrambles your data so no one can read it without the right key. Both Proton VPN and Express VPN use AES-256 encryption, the same standard trusted by banks and militaries. It’s nearly impossible to crack.

• Proton VPN pairs this with protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. WireGuard is a newer option that’s fast and secure.
• Express VPN also uses OpenVPN and IKEv2 but adds Lightway, its own protocol built for speed and protection.

Both are strong here, but Express VPN’s Lightway might appeal if you want something fresh and optimized.

Logging Policies: What Do They Know About You?

A VPN can protect you only if it doesn’t track you. Proton VPN promises a strict no-logs policy. It doesn’t store anything about what you do online. In 2019, Swiss authorities requested user data during a criminal case, and Proton VPN had nothing to share—proof its policy holds up.

Express VPN also claims no logs. It’s been tested too; in 2017, Turkish officials seized a server and found no user data. But its parent company, Kape Technologies, once dealt in adware, which makes some people uneasy.

Where They’re Based: Does Location Matter?

Where a VPN is located can affect how safe your data is. Proton VPN calls Switzerland home. This country has some of the world’s toughest privacy laws and isn’t part of spy networks like Five Eyes. That’s a big win for keeping your info private.

Express VPN is based in the British Virgin Islands. It’s also free from major surveillance groups and has solid privacy laws. Still, that Kape Technologies connection lingers as a question mark for some.

Extra Security Tools

Beyond the basics, both VPNs offer more to keep you safe:

• Proton VPN: Its Secure Core feature sends your traffic through extra servers in private countries first. It also has Tor over VPN for super anonymity.
• Express VPN: TrustedServer tech wipes all data every time its servers restart. Plus, it has a kill switch to cut your internet if the VPN drops.

These extras can tip the scales depending on what you need.

Speed vs. Security: A Quick Note

Security is vital, but speed matters too. I’ve used both VPNs, and here’s what I found:

• Proton VPN feels rock-solid but can lag a bit with Secure Core on.
• Express VPN runs smoother, especially with Lightway, which I loved for streaming.

If raw speed isn’t your focus, Proton VPN’s extra layers might feel more reassuring.

My Experience With Both

I’ve tested Proton VPN and Express VPN for months. Proton VPN gave me peace of mind during a trip to a country with heavy internet restrictions. Its no-logs policy and Swiss base felt like a safety net. Express VPN, though, was my go-to for everyday use—fast, reliable, and easy to switch servers. But that Kape history nagged at me a little. Your comfort level might differ.

Breaking It Down: A Quick Comparison Table

This table sums up the big points. Both are secure, but the details might sway you.

Who Wins for Security?

Here’s the tough part: there’s no clear “winner.” Proton VPN shines if you’re laser-focused on privacy. Its Swiss roots, no-logs proof, and Secure Core make it a fortress. Express VPN balances security with speed, and its TrustedServer setup is clever. But that Kape link might bother the ultra-cautious.

Ask yourself: Do you trust Switzerland’s laws more, or are you okay with a fast, polished VPN from the BVI?

Tips for Choosing

• If you’re dodging censorship or surveillance, go with Proton VPN.
• If you want security without slowdowns, pick Express VPN.
• Test both—most plans have a 30-day refund window.

I’d lean toward Proton VPN for pure security, but Express VPN hasn’t let me down either.

Summary

Proton VPN vs Express VPN: which is more secure? Both are top online privacy tools with strong encryption and no-logs policies. Proton VPN stands out for its privacy-first design and Swiss base. Express VPN blends security with speed, though its parent company raises questions. Your choice depends on what matters most—total privacy or a fast, secure ride.