Proton VPN vs Express VPN: Which is More Secure for Online Privacy?

In today’s world, staying safe online is a must. VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks, help by hiding your internet activity and protecting your data. Two big names, Proton VPN and Express VPN, stand out. This article compares them to answer: Proton VPN vs Express VPN: which is more secure? Let’s find out.

Where They’re Based: Privacy Laws Matter

Where a VPN company is located affects how safe your data is. Proton VPN is based in Switzerland. That country has tough privacy laws and doesn’t share data with groups like the Five Eyes alliance. It’s a big plus for keeping your info private.

Express VPN operates from the British Virgin Islands, or BVI. The BVI doesn’t force companies to keep user data and isn’t tied to big spy networks either. That makes it a strong spot for privacy too.

Both places give these VPNs a solid start for protecting your online privacy. They’re outside the reach of nosy governments, which is key.

Do They Keep Logs? Checking the No-Logs Promise

A VPN should never track what you do online. Both Proton VPN and Express VPN say they don’t keep logs. But can we trust that?

Proton VPN had an outside company, Securitum, check its no-logs claim in 2022. They found no records of what users did, where they connected from, or when. That’s reassuring.

Express VPN got a similar check from PricewaterhouseCoopers in 2019. It proved they don’t store your browsing history or connection details either.

Both passed these tests, which is great for online privacy tools. Still, I’d say Proton VPN feels a bit more current with its newer audit. But no VPN is perfect—always use strong passwords too!

Encryption and Protocols: How They Lock Your Data

Encryption keeps your info safe from hackers. Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption. It’s super strong—think of it as a lock no one can pick.

They also offer OpenVPN, a trusted way to send your data securely. Proton VPN adds WireGuard, which is newer and faster. Express VPN uses its own Lightway protocol, built for speed and safety.

I’ve tried both, and Proton VPN’s WireGuard felt snappy on my phone. Express VPN’s Lightway was smooth too, especially for videos. For security, they’re equal, but Proton VPN gets a tiny edge for speed options.