CyberGhost vs. ExpressVPN: Which VPN Is Right for You? (2024)
CyberGhost and ExpressVPN, both owned by Kape Technologies, offer the anonymity and security expected from virtual private networks (VPNs). However, they achieve this in distinct ways, making it important to understand their differences to choose the right one for your needs.
This comparison examines their features and capabilities, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, to help you make an informed decision.
CyberGhost vs. ExpressVPN: At a Glance
Both CyberGhost and ExpressVPN earned their place on our list of the best VPNs for good reason. They both employ military-grade encryption and offer features suitable for various tasks. CyberGhost presents itself as a comprehensive security package for individuals and small businesses, offering premium antivirus software, DNS blocking tools, and a dedicated IP address at competitive prices.
ExpressVPN solidifies its position as a premium personal VPN, boasting fast and consistent connection speeds, uncompromising security features, and server obfuscation that masks VPN activity from companies and governments.
Security
The primary function of a VPN is to hide a user's real IP address and protect their data. Both CyberGhost and ExpressVPN accomplish this effectively, albeit with distinct features.
Encryption: Both VPNs utilize AES-256 encryption, the industry standard for its near-impenetrability. They also employ ChaCha20 encryption in their lightweight protocols, enhancing speed without compromising security.
VPN Protocols: Both offer OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, known for reliability and varying uses. OpenVPN excels in security, while IKEv2 prioritises speed and stability for mobile devices. ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol offers WireGuard-like speeds with added security, while CyberGhost supports the open-source WireGuard protocol. Lightway also supports obfuscation, masking VPN usage and bypassing blocks, giving ExpressVPN an edge for streaming or users in restrictive regions.
DNS Blocking: Both CyberGhost and ExpressVPN use DNS blocking to filter out known malicious IP addresses. ExpressVPN's Threat Manager tool, available on Android, iOS, Mac, Linux, and Aircove routers, provides comprehensive DNS blocking, while CyberGhost's "block content" feature, available on macOS, Windows, Android, and its private browser, blocks ads and malware.
Antivirus: CyberGhost offers Windows users full access to Intego Antivirus software, making it a potential cost-effective security solution for individuals and small businesses.
Kill Switch: Both CyberGhost and ExpressVPN include kill switches and built-in DNS leak protection, ensuring your connection stays secure even in the event of an interruption.
Privacy
While privacy is fundamental to VPNs, factors beyond features can impact how much privacy a VPN provides. Policies and even company location play a crucial role.
No Logs Policy: Both CyberGhost and ExpressVPN adhere to a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don't store data on your browsing activity, personal information, or connection details.
Audits: Both companies have undergone independent audits to verify their no-logs claims. ExpressVPN was audited by KPMG in September 2022, while CyberGhost underwent an audit by Deloitte in the same year.
Jurisdiction: Both CyberGhost, headquartered in Romania, and ExpressVPN, headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, are located in privacy-friendly jurisdictions. CyberGhost is subject to GDPR regulations, while ExpressVPN operates under a GDPR-inspired data protection law.
Servers
Both providers offer a vast network of servers, but with some key distinctions:
Server Count and Locations: CyberGhost boasts over 9,000 servers across 91 countries, significantly outperforming ExpressVPN's 3,000+ servers in 94 countries. However, ExpressVPN has a slight edge in server locations, with 152 distinct locations compared to CyberGhost's 116.
Obfuscated Servers: ExpressVPN utilizes server obfuscation technology, blending VPN traffic with regular internet traffic, making it ideal for bypassing VPN bans. CyberGhost lacks obfuscation but offers random port connections as a workaround.
No Spy Servers: CyberGhost operates its own fleet of no-spy servers, ensuring data isn't handled by third parties. These servers are accessible through longer subscription plans.
Specialty Servers: CyberGhost offers specialised servers for specific tasks, including streaming, gaming, and P2P sharing.
Speed and Performance
Speed is a complex factor influenced by various variables. While both CyberGhost and ExpressVPN are generally fast, ExpressVPN often consistently outperforms CyberGhost in terms of top speeds, particularly for speed-intensive tasks like streaming.
Streaming
Both VPNs effectively unblock streaming services, but ExpressVPN's fast speeds and server obfuscation make it a superior choice for reliable access. CyberGhost's specialised streaming servers offer convenience but can be inconsistent.
Additional Features
Simultaneous Connections: CyberGhost allows seven simultaneous connections but requires a separate subscription for more, while ExpressVPN permits five simultaneous connections on an unlimited number of devices.
Dedicated IP Address: CyberGhost offers a dedicated IP address for an additional fee, which can be beneficial for small businesses.
Split Tunneling: ExpressVPN uses a classic split tunneling approach, while CyberGhost's approach is limited to URL exceptions.
VPN Automation: CyberGhost allows users to automate VPN activation based on specific conditions.
Router App: ExpressVPN provides a dedicated router app for easier VPN management.
Cost
CyberGhost offers competitive extended plan pricing, making it a value proposition for long-term users. ExpressVPN is generally pricier but offers a more user-friendly experience.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
ExpressVPN enjoys a positive reputation for its fast speeds and streaming capabilities. CyberGhost is praised for its affordability and added security features but sometimes experiences performance issues.
Alternatives
If you're still unsure about CyberGhost or ExpressVPN, consider these alternatives:
NordVPN: The best overall VPN for 2024, offering a strong balance of speed, security, and features.
TorGuard VPN: A highly customizable VPN with robust security features, earning the title of most customizable VPN.
Surfshark: A great choice for unlimited device connections and unique features.
Conclusion
In a crowded VPN market, CyberGhost and ExpressVPN both offer competitive packages.
Choose CyberGhost for: Individuals seeking a budget-friendly security package with antivirus and DNS blocking, and small businesses looking for a dedicated IP address option.
Choose ExpressVPN for: Streamers, gamers, and users needing to bypass censorship regularly, who require fast and reliable speeds and server obfuscation.
Ultimately, the best VPN for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. Carefully consider your budget, security requirements, and desired features to make the right choice.
