ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access vs CyberGhost - VPN Comparison 2026
| Feature | ExpressVPN | Private Internet Access (PIA) | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company headquarters | British Virgin Islands - out of 14‑Eyes jurisdiction, better privacy. | United States - under US laws, but claims strict no‑logs. | Romania - EU jurisdiction with GDPR protections. |
| Server network size | 3,000+ servers in ~105 countries - strong global presence. | ~29,000+ servers in ~91 countries - very large network, includes physical and virtual servers. | ~9,500+ servers in ~100 countries - large and well‑distributed network. |
| Server locations (countries) | 105+ countries - very wide global reach. | 91 countries - strong coverage in key regions. | 100 countries - good regional spread. |
| Protocols supported | Lightway (fast), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec - for speed and security. | WireGuard (fast), OpenVPN, IKEv2 - widely supported across devices. | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 - standard modern protocols. |
| Data encryption | AES‑256 with DNS & IP protection. | AES‑256 with optional features like ad-blocker and MultiHop. | AES‑256 encryption on all servers. |
| Kill Switch | Yes - system‑wide protection against leaks. | Yes - stops traffic if connection drops. | Yes - protects IP when VPN drops. |
| RAM‑disk servers | Yes - TrustedServer runs entirely in RAM, wipes on reboot. | Yes - mostly RAM‑only servers. | Yes - RAM‑only server network. |
| Log policy | Strict no logs, multiple independent audits. | No logs claim, limited audits. | Strict no logs, independently audited. |
| Security audits | Multiple third‑party audits, TrustedServer verified. | Audit coverage exists, not as extensive as ExpressVPN. | Independent audit results published. |
| Tor Over VPN | Yes - works with Tor browser over VPN. | Yes - can be configured with Tor browser. | Yes - works with Tor browser. |
| Split tunneling | Yes - included on most apps. | Yes - available on apps. | Yes - available on supported apps. |
| Leak protection | DNS, IP & WebRTC leak protection. | DNS & IP leak protection enabled. | Protected against DNS & IP leaks. |
| Streaming support | Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Prime, BBC & more reliably. | Works with many services but can vary by region. | Dedicated streaming servers in many regions. |
| P2P / Torrent support | Yes - P2P allowed on all servers. | Yes - torrent supported with stable speeds. | Yes - optimized P2P servers available. |
| Maximum simultaneous connections | Up to 14 devices. | Unlimited devices. | Up to 7 devices. |
| Support | 24/7 live chat & email, detailed guides. | Live chat & email support. | 24/7 live chat & email support. |
| Bitcoin payment | Yes - accepts Bitcoin and other crypto. | Yes - Bitcoin & crypto accepted. | Yes - Bitcoin accepted. |
| Best in categories | Best overall for privacy & streaming. | Best large server network & device support. | Best budget & streaming‑optimized servers. |
ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access vs CyberGhost Overview
Windscribe offers a free plan with 15 GB per month and works on multiple devices at the same time. Servers are located in several countries. Paid plans unlock more servers and faster speeds, useful for video or downloads. The app is straightforward, and it includes a basic ad blocker.
Mullvad does not require personal information to sign up and accepts anonymous payments such as cash or cryptocurrency. It does not keep logs of activity. Servers are available in multiple countries, and speeds are steady. The interface is basic but functional, with few extra settings.
TunnelBear provides a small free plan, usually 500 MB per month, and paid plans give more data and server access. The app is simple and works on most devices. Speeds are suitable for regular browsing, and the service includes a kill switch and encrypted connections. It is easy to use without extra setup.
All three VPNs encrypt your connection and prevent casual tracking. Windscribe gives more data and device support, Mullvad focuses on anonymity, and TunnelBear is simple and quick to use.
Which One is the Best?
Windscribe is best for users who want more free data and the ability to use several devices at once. Mullvad is best for people who need strong privacy and minimal personal information. TunnelBear is best for beginners or casual users who want a VPN that works without extra steps. For general everyday browsing, Windscribe works well. For privacy without compromise, Mullvad is the strongest. For simple setup and light use, TunnelBear is easiest.
ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access vs CyberGhost Frequently Asked Questions
Which VPN gives the most free data?
A: Windscribe provides 15 GB per month. TunnelBear gives 500 MB per month, and Mullvad does not have a free plan.
Which VPN is strongest for privacy?
A: Mullvad keeps no logs and does not require personal information. Windscribe and TunnelBear keep minimal information and require accounts.
Which VPN is easiest to set up?
A: TunnelBear is very simple. Windscribe is also straightforward. Mullvad is basic but needs a little more configuration.
Which VPN works on multiple devices?
A: Windscribe allows multiple devices even on the free plan. TunnelBear and Mullvad allow a limited number of devices depending on the plan.
Which VPN is fastest?
A: Speeds depend on server and location. Windscribe and Mullvad are generally steady. TunnelBear is fine for browsing but can be slower on free servers.
Which VPN can stream videos?
A: Windscribe can stream on certain servers. TunnelBear works for light streaming. Mullvad does not focus on streaming.
Which VPN supports torrenting?
A: Windscribe and Mullvad allow torrenting. TunnelBear does not officially support torrents.
Do all three VPNs include a kill switch?
A: Yes, all three have a kill switch feature to prevent leaks if the connection drops.
Are these VPNs safe?
A: All three encrypt traffic. Mullvad focuses on anonymity, Windscribe provides good overall protection, and TunnelBear offers basic security.
Which VPN has the most servers?
A: Windscribe has servers in many countries. Mullvad has multiple locations. TunnelBear has fewer servers overall.
Can these VPNs be used on mobile?
A: Yes, all three have apps for Android and iOS devices.
Which VPN is better for beginners?
A: TunnelBear is easiest for beginners. Windscribe is also simple. Mullvad suits users familiar with VPN setup.
Which VPN is best for occasional use?
A: TunnelBear's free plan works for light browsing. Windscribe gives more free data. Mullvad requires payment.
Which VPN allows anonymous payments?
A: Mullvad accepts cash and cryptocurrency. Windscribe and TunnelBear mostly use standard online payment methods.
Which VPN works on desktop computers?
A: All three work on Windows and macOS. Windscribe and Mullvad also support Linux.
Which VPN is most consistent?
A: Mullvad is very consistent. Windscribe is reliable. TunnelBear is fine for light browsing but can slow when servers are busy.
Which VPN is suitable for work?
A: Windscribe and Mullvad can be used for secure browsing at work. TunnelBear works for casual tasks.
Which VPN is cheapest long-term?
A: TunnelBear and Windscribe have free plans. Mullvad requires a subscription but charges a flat rate.
Which VPN has the best apps?
A: TunnelBear has the simplest interface. Windscribe offers more options. Mullvad is basic but functional.
