If you are looking for the best alternatives to ExpressVPN for your Android phone or tablet, top choices like NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN offer better pricing, faster speeds, and strong privacy features. While ExpressVPN is a well-known name, its high subscription cost leaves many Android users searching for cheaper or more feature-rich options. This guide breaks down the top five alternatives based on real-world performance, security, and ease of use on the Google Play Store.
Why Look for an ExpressVPN Alternative on Android?
ExpressVPN is undeniably fast, but it comes with a major drawback: a steep price tag. For everyday Android users, paying top dollar might not make sense when there are services offering similar—or even better—features for a fraction of the cost.
When searching for a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for your Android device, you want an app that won’t drain your battery, slows down your mobile data minimally, and keeps your browsing private on public Wi-Fi.
What Makes a Good Android VPN?
- Lightweight App Design: Won’t lag on budget or mid-range Android phones.
- Kill Switch: Automatically cuts internet traffic if the VPN connection drops.
- WireGuard Protocol: Ensures fast streaming and gaming speeds.
- No-Logs Policy: Ensures your internet service provider (ISP) or the VPN company cannot track your data.
The Top 5 Alternatives to ExpressVPN for Android Users
1. NordVPN – Best Overall Performance and Security
NordVPN is widely considered the gold standard for Android security. It features a clean, map-based interface that works smoothly on both Android phones and Android TVs.
- Pros: Blazing-fast speeds using the NordLynx protocol, Threat Protection Lite (blocks ads and malware), and specialized Double VPN servers.
- Cons: The interactive map can feel a bit cramped on smaller smartphone screens.
- Best For: Users who want top-tier security and fast streaming without compromise.
- Get NordVPN on the Google Play Store
2. Surfshark – Best Budget-Friendly Option
If you want premium features without breaking the bank, Surfshark is the top pick. It allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, meaning you can protect your entire family’s Android devices with a single subscription.
- Pros: Highly affordable, unlimited device connections, CleanWeb tracker blocker, and a reliable built-in kill switch.
- Cons: Customer support live chat can occasionally take a few minutes to connect.
- Best For: Families and users looking for maximum value for money.
- Get Surfshark on the Google Play Store
3. Proton VPN – Best for Privacy Advocates
Based in Switzerland, Proton VPN is famous for its strict privacy laws and open-source, independently audited apps. Its free tier is one of the very few that doesn’t show ads or limit your data, though the paid version unlocks much faster servers worldwide.
- Pros: Open-source apps, excellent free tier, Secure Core architecture that routes traffic through multiple servers.
- Cons: The paid plans are relatively expensive compared to competitors like Surfshark.
- Best For: Journalists, activists, and privacy-focused Android users.
- Get Proton VPN on the Google Play Store
4. CyberGhost VPN – Best for Streaming and Ease of Use
CyberGhost makes choosing a server easy by labeling them specifically for streaming, torrenting, or gaming. Its Android app is straightforward and requires zero technical knowledge to set up.
- Pros: Dedicated servers for popular streaming apps, massive server network, and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
- Cons: The automatic protocol selection can occasionally pick a slower connection on unstable mobile networks.
- Best For: Beginners who want a simple way to unblock streaming content on the go.
- Get CyberGhost on the Google Play Store
5. Mullvad VPN – Best for Anonymous Sign-Ups
Mullvad takes a unique approach to user privacy: it does not ask for an email address or personal details when you sign up. Instead, it assigns you a random account number.
- Pros: Complete anonymity, flat-rate pricing regardless of currency, and transparent ownership.
- Cons: No free trial, and it does not unlock as many geo-restricted streaming services as NordVPN or CyberGhost.
- Best For: Tech-savvy users who prioritize total anonymity online.
- Get Mullvad VPN on the APK or Google Play Store
Comparison Table: ExpressVPN vs. Top Android Alternatives
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark | Proton VPN | CyberGhost | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Budget-Friendly | Very Cheap | Moderate | Budget-Friendly | Flat Rate (€5/mo) |
| Simultaneous Connections | 6 | Unlimited | 10 | 7 | 5 |
| Android App Rating | High | High | High | Good | High |
| Free Version | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Protocol | NordLynx, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
How to Set Up and Use a VPN on Android
Setting up an alternative VPN on your Android device takes less than two minutes. Follow these simple steps:
- Choose and Download Your App: Head to the Google Play Store, search for your preferred VPN (such as NordVPN or Surfshark), and tap Install.
- Create an Account: Open the app and sign up for a subscription, or log in if you already created an account on their official website.
- Grant Permissions: When prompted by Android, allow the app to add VPN configurations. This is a standard security prompt required by Android to route your network traffic securely.
- Connect to a Server: Tap the “Quick Connect” button for the fastest server, or manually browse and select a specific country if you are trying to access geo-restricted content.
- Verify Your Connection: Once the app displays a green connected status or a key icon appears in your Android status bar, your mobile connection is secure.