Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
ExpressVPN and McAfee Safe Connect provide different experiences for users. ExpressVPN, with an overall rating of 77.9%, offers a no-logging policy, more servers, and better encryption. It also unblocks more streaming platforms and includes a kill switch feature. Although McAfee Safe Connect is cheaper, its overall rating is only 18.4%, lacks a no-logging policy, and does not unblock major streaming platforms. Therefore, ExpressVPN is the better choice for users prioritizing privacy and functionality.
About Our VPN Rating Systems
Our reviews delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Ratings are based on our comprehensive research of 96 VPN companies. Out of 96 VPNs we reviewed, only 11 surpass the 75% threshold in our evaluation, while half of the reviewed services score below average (54.1%).
Why Read Our VPN Guide?
- Our VPN reviews are unbiased and data-driven. We are not affiliated to any of the VPN companies listed on this website.
- Our rating system covers diverse user needs. We delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Specifications: ExpressVPN vs McAfee Safe Connect
| VPN Company | ExpressVPN | McAfee Safe Connect |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | British Virgin Islands (BVI) | United States |
| Cheapest Price | $6.67/mo over 15-month subscription | $3.33/mo |
| Monthly Price | $12.95 | $3.33 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | No |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-256 |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and Lightway | IKEv2/IPSec, OpenVPN, and WireGuard |
| Servers | 3,000 | (not stated) |
| Servers Countries | 94 | 23 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 8 devices | 5 devices |
| Works in China? | Partially | Unlikely |
| Smart DNS | No | No |
| Kill Switch | Yes | No |
| Browser Extension | Yes | No |
| Double VPN | No | No |
| Ads Blocking | No | No |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | No |
| Third Party Audit | Cure53 | – |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat | 24/7 Live Chat, and Email |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | – |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: McAfee Safe Connect Better
McAfee Safe Connect presents an appealing price point at $3.33/mo, while ExpressVPN opts for a premium pricing strategy, starting at $6.67/mo for their 15-month subscription plan. This leads to an intriguing evaluation of the additional value ExpressVPN offers. Boasting military-grade encryption (AES-256, and ChaCha20), 24×7 live chat support, and a global network of 3,000 servers in more than 90 countries, ExpressVPN aims to justify its higher cost.
Yet, when compared to the offerings of McAfee Safe Connect, the question remains: do these enhanced features of ExpressVPN align with the specific needs and preferences of users seeking a premium VPN experience? This is something you’ll need to consider when comparing the two.
Jurisdiction: ExpressVPN Better
When it comes to privacy, the jurisdiction of a VPN provider is key. ExpressVPN’s location in British Virgin Islands (BVI), free from mandatory data retention laws, offers a significant privacy advantage over McAfee Safe Connect, based in the 14-Eye Alliance country of United States. This alliance, including the US, UK, and several European nations, is known for its extensive surveillance and data-sharing practices, potentially impacting user privacy.
In brief, for those dealing with sensitive data or in strict online environments, ExpressVPN represents a safer choice. Its non-14-Eyes location reduces the risk of surveillance and involuntary data sharing, making it a preferable option for privacy-conscious users.
Comparing the two, ExpressVPN’s BVI base generally offers a higher level of privacy protection. However, it’s important to consider other factors such as the VPN’s own privacy policy, encryption standards, and track record in handling user data. Both VPNs have their own merits, but for strict privacy considerations, being based in BVI gives ExpressVPN an edge.
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage: Tie
When it comes to server availability and geographic coverage, both ExpressVPN and McAfee Safe Connect stand out with their impressive reach.
ExpressVPN, known for its expansive server network (3,000 servers in 94 countries), ensures users can connect from virtually anywhere, offering seamless access and speed. Similarly, McAfee Safe Connect operates a large fleet of servers, with (not stated) servers across 23 countries.
This widespread coverage by both services guarantees reliable and fast connections, irrespective of your location, making them excellent choices for users seeking extensive worldwide access.
No Logging Policy: ExpressVPN Better
The privacy policies of ExpressVPN and McAfee Safe Connect reveal a stark contrast. ExpressVPN not only upholds a stringent no-logging policy, but also reinforces this commitment through regular audits by Cure53. These audits validate ExpressVPN’s adherence to its privacy claims, providing an added layer of trust and transparency.
On the other hand, McAfee Safe Connect, while offering a range of features and based in United States, does not follow a no-logging policy. This means that it might keep some records of user activities – which can be a significant concern for those who prioritize anonymity and data security.
Users who value rigorous privacy standards and external validation of security claims may find these differences pivotal in choosing the right VPN service.
Money Back Guarantee: Tie
The commitment of ExpressVPN and McAfee Safe Connect to customer satisfaction is clearly seen in their extensive money-back guarantees. These guarantees show the confidence each service has in its quality. It’s a no-risk offer. Users can try out each VPN’s features without worry. Explore McAfee Safe Connect’s server network in 23 countries, experience ExpressVPN’s ad blocking and Lightway protocol, and exaluate their technical support quality. All this can be done before making a long-term decision.
Unblock Streaming Platforms: ExpressVPN Better
A substantial point of divergence between ExpressVPN and McAfee Safe Connect is their ability to unblock popular streaming platforms. ExpressVPN excels in this area, consistently unblocking a wide range of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Conversely, based on our market research, McAfee Safe Connect struggles in this regard. Despite its (not stated) servers in 23 countries, the VPN provider does not reliably unblock major streaming platforms. This limitation is a crucial consideration for users who prioritize entertainment and seek a VPN service that can bypass geo-restrictions on streaming content.
Kill Switch Feature: ExpressVPN Better
The presence of a kill switch in a VPN service is a critical factor for many users. ExpressVPN includes a kill switch feature, which automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing data leaks. In contrast, McAfee Safe Connect does not offer a kill switch. This could be a significant drawback for users who require an assurance of continuous privacy protection. While McAfee Safe Connect compensates with other features such as (not stated) servers spread across 23 countries and various support options like 24/7 Live Chat, and Email, the lack of a kill switch might deter users who prioritize uninterrupted security in their VPN service.
Ad Blocking Feature: ExpressVPN Better
A notable difference between ExpressVPN and McAfee Safe Connect lies in their additional features – particularly ad blocking. ExpressVPN offers an integrated ad blocker, enhancing the browsing experience by eliminating unwanted ads and potentially harmful malware. On the other hand, McAfee Safe Connect does not come with an ad blocking feature, which might be a drawback for users who prioritize a clean and uninterrupted browsing experience.
Bottomline
ExpressVPN and McAfee Safe Connect both offer distinct features and benefits, with ExpressVPN leading in areas such as privacy, streaming access, and additional security features like a kill switch and ad blocking. However, users should consider their specific needs and preferences, as McAfee Safe Connect provides a more affordable option with extensive customer support.
Pick What You Need
Our VPN recommendations and ratings are just a general guide and may not match your personal needs. Know what you need and pick a VPN that fits. It’s crucial to assess your personal requirements, whether it’s enhanced security, better privacy, faster speeds, or access to specific content. Use our ExpressVPN and McAfee Safe Connect comparison as a starting point, but ultimately, select a VPN that aligns with your unique needs. This approach ensures you get the most out of your VPN service.
About ExpressVPN & McAfee Safe Connect
McAfee Safe Connect
McAfee, a well-established name in the cybersecurity industry, offers McAfee Safe Connect VPN. Founded in 1987 by John McAfee, the company is headquartered in San Jose, California, USA. McAfee Safe Connect VPN focuses on providing secure Wi-Fi connections and protecting user privacy. The service is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.
To learn more, read our McAfee Safe Connect review.
ExpressVPN
Founded in 2009 by Peter Burchhardt and Dan Pomerantz, ExpressVPN stands out for its speed and extensive server network, with over 3,000 servers across 94 countries. It uses TrustedServer technology for enhanced security and supports AES-256 encryption. ExpressVPN offers wide device compatibility, including routers and smart TVs, and provides 24/7 customer support. The company is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands.
To learn more, read our ExpressVPN review.