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ExpressVPN vs Hotspot Shield VPN Comparison (2026)

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Good recommendations?

ExpressVPN

Hotspot Shield VPN

Overview

ExpressVPN is a virtual private network software that helps small businesses and individuals access censored or blocked websites, videos, and applications via an AES-256 encrypted server. The VPN split tunneling functionality enables users to route limited and specific device traffic through VPN.

Hotspot Shield is a private VPN that provides secure and private internet access by encrypting personal browsing information. Securely browse and stream videos, games, shows, sports, and movies anywhere in HD quality.

Platforms supported

Web-based
iPhone app
Android app
Windows Phone app

Typical customers

Freelancers
Small businesses
Mid size businesses
Large enterprises

Customer support

Phone
Online
Knowledge base
Video tutorials

view more detailsview details

Platforms supported

Web-based
iPhone app
Android app
Windows Phone app

Typical customers

Freelancers
Small businesses
Mid size businesses
Large enterprises

Customer support

Phone
Online
Knowledge base
Video tutorials

view more detailsview details

Video & Screenshots

No videos yet

Pricing

Starting from

12.95

Per month

Free trial available
Credit cardless trial
Free account
Subscription based

Starting from

12.99

Per month

Free trial available
Credit cardless trial
Free account
Subscription based

User reviews

4.6

289

202

Value for money

Ease of use

Features

Customer support

84%

would recommend this app

4.3

Value for money

Ease of use

Features

Customer support

59%

would recommend this app

Pros

“Connection speeds are solid enough that I do not notice much of a slowdown even when I am running multiple tabs or tools at once.”

Daniel S.

Manager

“What I use it for is mostly side project work and keeping things a little more private when I am handling dealership business on the go, it has done the job well.”

Daniel S.

Manager

“I would just go in knowing you are paying a bit of a premium for that simplicity.”

Daniel S.

Manager

Pros

“Furthermore, Hotspot shield is easy to use as it has a One-Click connect feature activating protection when i connect to a public WIFI.”

Dennis M.

Senior Frontend Engineer

“Additionally, Hotspot Shield VPN has a free and a premium version catering for everyone.”

Dennis M.

Senior Frontend Engineer

“I used Hotspot Shield VPN on a trial for 7 days was a great experience, the speed is super legit and reliable.”

Evandro C.

Administrator Assistant

Cons

“There have also been a few times where a specific server location was slower than expected, so you sometimes have to bounce between a couple servers before finding one that runs smooth.”

Daniel S.

Manager

“While there isn't a free version or trial available, this VPN is slightly pricier compared to others.”

Aleksandra P.

Data and research lead

“The price is honestly the biggest downside.”

Daniel S.

Manager

Cons

“Every once in a while, it will screw up with some of the marketing tools or region-locked ad programs.”

Imogen R.

Digital Marketing Specialist