Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
ExpressVPN and Smart DNS Proxy are both VPN services, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses. ExpressVPN, with a rating of 77.9%, offers a larger server network, a no-logging policy, and is based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, the British Virgin Islands. Smart DNS Proxy, rated 62.8%, is cheaper and is also based outside the 14-Eye Alliance, in Turkey. However, it does not adhere to a no-logging policy and offers fewer servers. From a user’s perspective, ExpressVPN is the better choice due to its higher rating, larger server network, and strict no-logging policy.
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 Smart DNS Proxy
| VPN Company | ExpressVPN | Smart DNS Proxy |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | British Virgin Islands (BVI) | Turkey |
| Cheapest Price | $6.67/mo over 15-month subscription | $2.48/mo |
| Monthly Price | $12.95 | $5.90 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | No |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-128, AES-256, and 2048-bit |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and Lightway | IKEv2/IPSec, L2TP/IPSec, OpenVPN, PPTP, and SSTP |
| Servers | 3,000 | 38 |
| Servers Countries | 94 | 24 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 8 devices | 5 devices |
| Works in China? | Partially | Likely |
| Smart DNS | No | Yes |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extension | Yes | Yes |
| Double VPN | No | No |
| Ads Blocking | No | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | No |
| Third Party Audit | Cure53 | – |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat | 24/7 Email |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Netflix |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: Smart DNS Proxy Better
Smart DNS Proxy presents an appealing price point at $2.48/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 Smart DNS Proxy, 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: Tie
Both ExpressVPN and Smart DNS Proxy offer the significant advantage of being based outside the 14-Eye Alliance, with ExpressVPN in British Virgin Islands (BVI) and Smart DNS Proxy in Turkey. Operating from these locations, they stand apart from the reach of the extensive surveillance network that characterizes the 14-Eyes countries.
Understanding the 14-Eye Alliance and Its Significance
The 14-Eyes Alliance represents an expanded framework of intelligence sharing, evolving from the original Five-Eyes and subsequently Nine-Eyes alliances. This coalition encompasses countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and various European nations. VPN providers situated within these countries are potentially subject to legal obligations which may conflict with user privacy. Such obligations could entail surrendering user data, including logs, under government demand.
This is a crucial consideration, especially in cases where VPN services claim a no-logs policy. Choosing a VPN like ExpressVPN or Smart DNS Proxy, both located outside these surveillance-heavy jurisdictions, can offer an added layer of privacy and security for users concerned about governmental data requests and monitoring.
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage: ExpressVPN Better
The server fleet size of ExpressVPN and Smart DNS Proxy 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, Smart DNS Proxy maintains a more modest server presence, with only 38 servers across 24 countries. If you live in regions with fewer servers from Smart DNS Proxy, 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.
No Logging Policy: ExpressVPN Better
The privacy policies of ExpressVPN and Smart DNS Proxy 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, Smart DNS Proxy, while offering a range of features and based in Turkey, 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 Smart DNS Proxy 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 Smart DNS Proxy’s server network in 24 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.
Bottomline
In conclusion, both ExpressVPN and Smart DNS Proxy offer competitive VPN services, each with its own strengths. Users should consider their specific needs and preferences, such as privacy policies, server count, jurisdiction, and pricing, to make an informed decision between these two services.
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 Smart DNS Proxy 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 & Smart DNS Proxy
Smart DNS Proxy
Smart DNS Proxy, a service provided by Global Stealth Inc., has been operational since 2013. While specific details about the founders are not widely publicized, the service is security features and supports a wide range of devices and platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and various smart TVs. The company is headquartered in the Turkey.
To learn more, read our Smart DNS Proxy 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.