Atlas VPN vs ExpressVPN
This comparison is unusual: Atlas VPN officially shut down its entire service in April 2024. You cannot purchase or use Atlas VPN today for security needs. ExpressVPN is a world-class, premium alternative you should consider now.
Service Permanently Discontinued and Unavailable
We recognize that Atlas VPN previously offered competitive pricing and employed highly responsive customer support staff. However, the company has officially confirmed the permanent discontinuation of its VPN service as of April 2024. Overall, you cannot purchase or use this product now, making it effectively unavailable for any modern security needs.
Pros
- Customer support staff were consistently professional, swift, and competent (e.g., Monica, Webster, Emily).
- Historically offered very competitive and low-cost multi-year special offers.
- Proactive technical support sometimes issued quick, no-question refunds when streaming failed to work.
- Support staff were helpful and clearly explained complex issues to non-technical users.
Cons
- The VPN service was permanently discontinued in April 2024.
- Users reported frequent connection failures and highly unreliable performance.
- The essential Kill Switch security feature was reported as non-functional by some customers.
- Had significant issues reliably connecting to major streaming platforms (e.g., UK's ITVX, Channel 5).
Reliable performance supported by expert assistance.
We reviewed ExpressVPN’s robust security features, noting its independently audited no-logs policy and advanced TrustedServer technology. External feedback confirms users experience consistent reliability and ultra-fast connections globally, praising the expert customer support for its promptness. Overall, we confidently recommend ExpressVPN as a high-performing privacy tool, despite its premium price point.
Pros
- Globally praised for connection reliability and speed.
- Strict, independently audited no-logs policy and TrustedServer technology.
- Exceptional, prompt, and patient human customer support.
- Highly effective at bypassing geographic restrictions and censorship.
Cons
- Premium pricing is significantly higher than many competitors after the initial discounted term.
- Occasional difficulties accessing major streaming services (e.g., Netflix, YouTube TV) that detect the VPN.
- Some users reported issues with subscription renewals and auto-cancellations.
AboutAtlas VPN
Atlas VPN has officially confirmed that its service is permanently unavailable. The company discontinued its VPN service in April 2024. 💡 This means that Atlas VPN is no longer accessible to potential new users or existing customers. They also thanked their loyal customers for all their support over the years.
AboutExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is the World’s #1 premium VPN service built for individual privacy needs. A VPN, or virtual private network, establishes a secure connection to the internet. When you connect, your traffic goes through an authenticated, encrypted tunnel that nobody can view. This process prevents hackers, governments, and your internet provider from seeing your destination or activity. 💡
The VPN server acts like a proxy for your web activity. Instead of your real IP address, websites only see the address of the VPN server. This professional, commercial VPN service offers server locations in 105 countries, ensuring reliable speed and global flexibility. 🌎
Highlights
Feature Comparison
Features Overview
We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.
Operational Status
This is the core difference: Atlas VPN stopped working in April 2024. ExpressVPN is completely operational and offers immediate service.
Atlas VPN is permanently discontinued and has ceased all operations since April 2024. You cannot sign up, purchase a plan, or use Atlas VPN right now. ExpressVPN is a top-rated, active VPN service with a stellar reputation. You can purchase ExpressVPN plans and secure your devices immediately through an instant download. Because ExpressVPN is the only operational service, it is the only viable choice. Atlas VPN cannot protect your data today. Anyone searching for effective digital security must pivot away from Atlas VPN to ExpressVPN.
Connection Reliability
ExpressVPN is globally trusted for consistent, lightning-fast connections. Atlas VPN users historically reported frequent connection failures.
ExpressVPN is praised for reliability and offers ultra-fast connections globally. It effectively maintains connections whether you are streaming or gaming. Historically, Atlas VPN was unreliable, with users reporting constant technical problems. This inconsistent service defeated the purpose of a VPN for many users. Reliability is critical for security and usability; ExpressVPN delivers where Atlas VPN historically failed. If you cannot maintain a stable connection, the VPN is useless, making ExpressVPN superior for daily browsing.
Security & Audits
ExpressVPN has a verified no-logs policy and advanced TrustedServer tech. Atlas VPN's essential security features were sometimes broken.
ExpressVPN includes an independently audited no-logs policy protecting your privacy. It uses TrustedServer technology to prevent data logging permanently. Former Atlas VPN customers reported that the critical Kill Switch feature was often non-functional. This technical failure undermined user security drastically. ExpressVPN’s robust security is verifiable, offering peace of mind to serious privacy users. Atlas VPN’s security failures led many users to switch to more reliable providers. If security is paramount, only ExpressVPN offers the guaranteed protection needed today.
Customer Support
ExpressVPN has 24/7 live chat support right now. Atlas VPN's highly praised support staff are no longer working for the product.
ExpressVPN offers dedicated 24/7 customer support via prompt live chat and email. Support staff are reportedly attentive, effective, and patient. In the past, Atlas VPN's support staff were often praised as competent and swift. These helpful staff frequently resolved billing and technical issues quickly. However, ExpressVPN provides active support for current users seeking help today. Atlas VPN offers no support since the service is completely shut down. When you need quick setup help or technical troubleshooting, ExpressVPN is the only resource available.
Premium Feature Set
ExpressVPN bundles Identity Defender and better device compatibility. Atlas VPN was a stripped-down, budget-focused service.
ExpressVPN Pro plans include the Identity Defender vip suite for identity theft protection. This includes Data Removal and Credit Scanner tools. Atlas VPN was historically a budget choice lacking comprehensive identity protection features. Its feature set was focused narrowly on basic VPN connectivity. ExpressVPN secures up to 14 devices simultaneously across a superior platform range. Atlas VPN’s previous offering was much more limited in scope and protection. If you require complete identity security alongside your VPN, ExpressVPN provides a clear advantage.
Global Server Access
ExpressVPN operates servers in 105 global countries. Atlas VPN has zero servers running currently.
ExpressVPN maximizes choice and speed with an expansive network spanning 105 countries. This ensures fast, reliable access wherever you are located. Atlas VPN shut down all servers globally in April 2024, eliminating all access points. You cannot connect to a working Atlas VPN server. For global travelers or users needing specific geographic IP addresses, ExpressVPN is the only choice. ExpressVPN’s superior server coverage helps reliably bypass censorship and geographical content restrictions.
Atlas VPN costs between Not explicitly stated and Not explicitly stated per Not explicitly stated with Not explicitly stated plans: Not explicitly stated at Not explicitly stated.
Currently, we cannot display active pricing plans or subscription details for Atlas VPN. The company has publicly announced that its VPN service has been permanently discontinued.
Service Discontinued
Price: Not explicitly stated Websites Supported: Not explicitly stated Best For: Not explicitly stated Refund Policy: Not explicitly stated Other Features: Not explicitly stated
ExpressVPN costs between $3.49 and $7.49 per month (based on an initial 28-month commitment) with three plans: Basic at $3.49, Advanced at $4.49, and Pro at $7.49.
You'll find ExpressVPN offers tiered pricing designed to fit various needs for security and extra benefits when you commit to the initial 2 years plus 4 months contract. This special deal offers savings up to 73% off the original price.
Basic
Price: $3.49 per month (billed $97.72 for the first 28 months) Websites Supported: 10 simultaneous connections Best For: Essential security and value searching Refund Policy: 30-day money-back guarantee for new users Other Features: Best-in-class VPN, Lite Protection (block ads and malicious sites)
- 10 simultaneous connections
- Best-in-class VPN
- Lite Protection (block ads and malicious sites)
- Billed $97.72 for the first 28 months
- Renews annually at $99.95
- 12 simultaneous connections
- Best-in-class VPN
- Advanced Protection (block ads, trackers, malicious sites)
- Password Manager
- 3 days eSIM by holiday.com*
- 14 simultaneous connections
- Best-in-class VPN
- Advanced Protection (block ads, trackers, malicious sites, and more)
- Password Manager
- 5 days eSIM by holiday.com*
Pricing Notes
- Atlas VPN has been permanently discontinued and all pricing is unavailable.
- ExpressVPN charges a discounted introductory rate for the first 28 months, billed upfront.
- After the initial 28-month contract, ExpressVPN auto-renews at a significantly higher standard annual rate.
- ExpressVPN does not offer a free trial but does guarantee a 30-day money-back refund.
Pricing Head-to-Head
User Reviews
Community feedback for Atlas VPN is highly polarized, primarily focusing on two extreme points: connection reliability and customer service responsiveness. Many users reported persistent technical problems, including frequent connection failures, a sometimes non-functional Kill Switch, and an inability to reliably stream geo-restricted content, such as certain UK channels 👎.
After the company sale, some customers struggled just to log in, confirming concerns about operational reliability. Conversely, the high quality of the customer support team—with specific members like Monica, Webster, and Emily frequently praised—is a standout positive.
AtlasVPN charged me despite confirming my account cancellation last month, which made me furious. The system error caused a recurring bill. Edit: The problem was resolved quickly without any issues, and I am now satisfied with the outcome.
Users frequently describe ExpressVPN as highly reliable and effective for secure internet access, especially in censored regions. Many reviewers value its critical ability to bypass geographic restrictions, allowing access to streaming content worldwide.
Positive feedback consistently highlights the intuitive user interface and compatibility across numerous devices (including TV apps). While some users note that ExpressVPN is priced higher than competitors, they generally agree the superior connection reliability, fast speeds, and extensive global server network (105 countries) justify the cost, confirming it offers great value.
I've used Express VPN for years now. It may not be the cheapest option, but it is the best one for sheer connection reliability. It offers great value for the high level of service you receive.
Our Verdict
If you are comparing Atlas VPN and ExpressVPN, the decision is surprisingly easy. Atlas VPN permanently discontinued its service in April 2024. Therefore, Atlas VPN is inaccessible and cannot provide security or privacy today. You must choose ExpressVPN or another active provider. Atlas VPN historically focused on offering a very low-cost security option. Former customers often highlighted the swift and competent customer support staff. However, Atlas VPN frequently struggled with major technical issues and unreliable connections. ExpressVPN is regarded as the world's most reliable premium VPN service. ExpressVPN uses TrustedServer technology and has an audited no-logs policy. It secures your data with lightning speed across a vast network of 105 countries. The deciding factor is clear: only ExpressVPN is currently operational and supports users. ExpressVPN provides a 30-day guarantee and 24/7 live support. You need an active VPN to protect your data, making ExpressVPN the necessary choice. Choose ExpressVPN if you need immediate, guaranteed high-speed security for up to 14 devices. ExpressVPN provides superior value, excellent features, and verifiable privacy where Atlas VPN ceased to exist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current operational status of Atlas VPN versus ExpressVPN?
Atlas VPN is permanently discontinued and ceased all operations in April 2024. ExpressVPN is currently active and fully operational globally. ExpressVPN is the only viable option for securing your data today.
Can I still subscribe to or purchase Atlas VPN today?
No, you cannot purchase or subscribe to Atlas VPN. The service is permanently shut down, and all subscription options are unavailable. You must search for a replacement like ExpressVPN immediately.
Is ExpressVPN worth the premium cost over Atlas VPN?
ExpressVPN is worth the premium cost because Atlas VPN provides zero service. ExpressVPN offers verified security, ultra-fast servers, and 24/7 prompt support. Its reliability justifies the cost difference highly.
Which VPN is faster and more reliable: Atlas VPN or ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is globally recognized for its consistent, high-speed performance. Atlas VPN was notoriously unreliable with frequent connection failures. ExpressVPN is significantly faster and more dependable.
Which tool offers better security and privacy features?
ExpressVPN offers vastly superior security, including audited no-logs and TrustedServer technology. Atlas VPN historically suffered from a non-functional Kill Switch. ExpressVPN is the clear security winner.
Does ExpressVPN offer a free trial like Atlas VPN used to?
ExpressVPN does not offer a free trial, but it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can test the premium service risk-free and receive a full refund. Atlas VPN offers no trials or guarantees now that it is closed.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.