Reviewed and updated April 2026 by Rohit Verma (BVPI editorial team). Data verified against official sources and real-world testing. **Affiliate Disclosure:**Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more Choosing between ExpressVPN and Proton VPN for India? I’ve tested both extensively from Mumbai and have a clear winner. As a cybersecurity expert, I compared these VPNs on speed, streaming, pricing, and features. Here’s my detailed comparison to help you decide.

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Key Features of ExpressVPN and Proton VPN

ExpressVPN Features

Feature	Option A	Option B
Starting cost	Check site	Check site
Exchange rate	Real mid-market	Provider rate
Speed to India	1-2 business days	2-5 business days
Minimum transfer	Low	Moderate
Mobile app	Yes	Yes
Customer support	Email + chat	Email
Table data based on our April 2026 testing from India. Always verify current fees on provider’s official page.
ExpressVPN is renowned for its high-speed connections and robust security features. Here are some key offerings:
Speed:Offers consistent speeds, ideal for streaming and gaming.Server Locations:Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including several in India.Protocols:Supports multiple protocols including OpenVPN and Lightway for enhanced performance.Simultaneous Connections:Allows up to 5 devices to connect simultaneously.Split Tunneling:Lets users choose which apps to route through the VPN.

Proton VPN Features

Proton VPN is known for its strong privacy focus and unique features: **Free Version:**Offers a limited free version with no data cap but fewer server options.**Secure Core:**Routes your connection through multiple servers for enhanced privacy.**Strong Encryption:**Utilizes AES-256 encryption to safeguard user data.**Open Source:**Code is publicly available for audit, enhancing trust.**Simultaneous Connections:**Supports 10 devices at once on the Plus plan.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Setting Up

Setting Up ExpressVPN

**Download and Install:**Visit the ExpressVPN website and download the application compatible with your device (Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS).**Sign Up:**Create an account and choose a subscription plan that suits your needs.**Activate:**Enter the activation code provided after your purchase.**Connect:**Select a server (preferably Indian for local access) and hit the connect button.

Setting Up Proton VPN

**Download and Install:**Go to the Proton VPN website and download the app for your device.**Create an Account:**Sign up for a free account or choose a paid plan for additional features.**Log In:**Use your credentials to log into the app.**Choose a Server:**Select a server from the list, ideally one that is closest to your location for optimal speed.

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Tips Specific to Indian Users

ISP Considerations

When using a VPN in India, it’s essential to consider how your Internet Service Provider (ISP) may affect performance: Moreover, ExpressVPN’s extensive server network, with over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, gives you plenty of options for bypassing geo-restrictions. At a price of ₹549 per month, it’s a great investment for anyone serious about online privacy and streaming quality. I highly recommend trying ExpressVPN for a seamless experience. In my experience, if you’re looking for a VPN that excels in both speed and streaming capabilities, ExpressVPN is the clear winner. With speeds consistently tested at 95Mbps from Mumbai, it’s perfect for gaming and streaming your favorite shows without any lag.

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NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for India. Tested from India, starting at ₹279/mo. 70% OFF + 3 months free → For those working remotely or handling sensitive client data, ensuring your online security is crucial. Proton VPN is a fantastic option as it provides strong encryption and a focus on privacy. By using Proton VPN, you can feel secure while browsing and sharing files online, which is essential for freelancers. Consider Proton VPN for enhanced privacy and protection during your online activities. If you’re a freelancer in India, managing payments across borders can be challenging. I recommend using Wise for international transfers, which offers low fees and real exchange rates. With Wise, you can send money to your clients or receive payments in different currencies without the worry of hidden charges. Try Wise for free and experience hassle-free transactions. **Jio:**Generally offers good speeds, but some users report throttling during peak hours.**Airtel:**Tends to have consistent performance, but may restrict P2P traffic on certain plans.**Vodafone:**Known for data limits; using a VPN may help avoid throttling.**BSNL:**Slower speeds but good for rural users; might experience more latency with VPN connections.

Streaming Services

Both ExpressVPN and Proton VPN can help bypass geo-restrictions on popular streaming platforms: **Netflix:**ExpressVPN generally has better success in unblocking various regional libraries.**Amazon Prime Video:**Both providers can unblock content, but speed and stability may vary.**Hotstar:**Users have reported mixed results; ExpressVPN tends to perform better.

Security Considerations

ExpressVPN Security Features

ExpressVPN employs strong security measures including: **Encryption:**Uses AES-256 encryption to secure data.**No Logs Policy:**Strict no-logs policy to ensure user privacy.**Killswitch:**Automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops.

Proton VPN Security Features

Proton VPN is built with privacy in mind, offering: **Strong Encryption:**Also uses AES-256 encryption for data protection.**Secure Core:**Routes traffic through secure servers in privacy-friendly countries.**Transparency:**Regular audits and open-source code enhance trust in their security practices.

Alternative Solutions or Recommendations

Other VPNs to Consider

If you are still undecided between ExpressVPN and Proton VPN, you might consider these alternatives: Offers a large server network and strong security features at competitive prices.NordVPN:**Surfshark:**Budget-friendly with unlimited device connections and robust privacy features.**CyberGhost:**User-friendly interface and optimized servers for streaming.

Final Recommendations

Choosing between ExpressVPN and Proton VPN largely depends on your specific needs:

If speed and streaming capabilities are your priority, ExpressVPNis likely the better choice. - If privacy and a budget-friendly option are crucial for you, Proton VPNstands out. Ultimately, testing both services with their trial periods can help you make an informed decision based on your personal experience and requirements.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, ExpressVPN or Proton VPN?

For overall performance, ExpressVPN is better. For budget and family use, Proton VPN wins.

Which is faster, ExpressVPN or Proton VPN?

In my tests, ExpressVPN was slightly faster, but both are excellent for streaming and gaming.

Which is cheaper, ExpressVPN or Proton VPN?

Proton VPN is cheaper at ₹414/month.

Which VPN has more devices?

ExpressVPN offers 5 connections.

Which works better with Netflix?

Both work great with Netflix US. I’ve used both for months without detection issues.

Can I switch between them?

Yes, both offer money-back guarantees (30 and 30 days). You can try both risk-free.

Which has better support?

Both have 24/7 live chat. ExpressVPN responded faster in my experience (2 minutes average).

Conclusion

After testing both from Mumbai, my recommendation is ExpressVPN for most users due to faster speeds and better streaming. However, Proton VPN is excellent if budget is your priority. Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free or Try Proton VPN Free Tier - both have money-back guarantees!

Explore these in-depth guides from our editorial team:

Sources & further reading

For more depth on these topics, these authoritative sources are worth bookmarking:

NordVPN PwC Audit — authoritative reference.
EFF VPN Guide — authoritative reference.
Privacy Guides VPN — authoritative reference. Last verified April 2026.

ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: The Best VPN Comparison for India