Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
ExpressVPN and Namecheap are both VPN services with differing strengths. ExpressVPN scores higher in overall ratings at 77.9% compared to Namecheap’s 49.4%, offering a larger server network, stronger encryption, and a more privacy-friendly jurisdiction in the British Virgin Islands. Namecheap, however, offers lower pricing at $0.88/mo compared to ExpressVPN’s $6.67/mo. Considering the overall features and performance, ExpressVPN is the better choice for users seeking a premium VPN experience.
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 Namecheap
| VPN Company | ExpressVPN | Namecheap |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | British Virgin Islands (BVI) | United States |
| Cheapest Price | $6.67/mo over 15-month subscription | $0.88/mo |
| Monthly Price | $12.95 | $0.88 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | Yes |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-256 |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and Lightway | OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec |
| Servers | 3,000 | 1,000 |
| Servers Countries | 94 | 50 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 8 devices | 5 devices |
| Works in China? | Partially | Unlikely |
| Smart DNS | No | No |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extension | Yes | Yes |
| 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 | Disney+, Netflix, and HBO |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: Namecheap Better
Namecheap presents an appealing price point at $0.88/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 Namecheap, 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 Namecheap, 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: ExpressVPN Better
The server fleet size of ExpressVPN and Namecheap is a critical aspect where these two VPN providers diverge significantly. ExpressVPN stands out with its impressive network, hosting over 3,000 servers worldwide. This extensive coverage ensures that users almost anywhere can find a reliable and fast server connection.
In contrast, Namecheap maintains a more modest server presence, with only 1,000 servers across 50 countries. If you live in regions with fewer servers from Namecheap, this might translate to slower speeds and potentially less stable connections. The vast server network of ExpressVPN not only provides broader geographic reach but also typically allows for better performance and lower latency.
Money Back Guarantee: Tie
The commitment of ExpressVPN and Namecheap 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 Namecheap’s server network in 50 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.
Ad Blocking Feature: ExpressVPN Better
A notable difference between ExpressVPN and Namecheap 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, Namecheap does not come with an ad blocking feature, which might be a drawback for users who prioritize a clean and uninterrupted browsing experience.
Bottomline
In conclusion, both ExpressVPN and Namecheap offer robust VPN services, with ExpressVPN excelling in server count, jurisdiction, and additional features like ad blocking. However, Namecheap’s significantly lower price point and similar basic offerings make it a competitive alternative for users on a budget.
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 Namecheap 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 & Namecheap
Namecheap
Namecheap, primarily known as a domain registrar and web hosting company, expanded its services to include VPN offerings. While Namecheap was founded in 2000 by Richard Kirkendall, the VPN service was launched more recently. Namecheap VPN focuses on providing secure, fast, and anonymous browsing experiences, with features like a wide network of servers and strong encryption. The service is compatible with devices across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android platforms. Namecheap is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
To learn more, read our Namecheap 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.