Brave Browser vs ExpressVPN: Which VPN App Wins for Privacy and Speed?

Brave Private Web Browser with VPN is ideal for users who want an all-in-one privacy solution combining a secure browser, ad blocker, and VPN. ExpressVPN is perfect for those who need a dedicated, high-speed VPN for streaming, torrenting, and global server access. Brave offers a free VPN with browser integration, while ExpressVPN provides a premium, standalone VPN with a 3-day free trial.

Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app icon

Brave Private Web Browser, VPN

Recommended
Rating
★ 4.74
Downloads
100,000,000+
Developer
Brave Software
View on Play Store
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app icon

ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure

Rating
★ 4.69
Downloads
100,000,000+
Developer
ExpressVPN
View on Play Store

Browse 3X faster on Brave Browser. Get a lightning fast, safe and private web browser with AI, Adblock, and VPN. Loved by over 100 million users, Brave has AI assistant Brave Leo, Firewall + VPN, Brave Search, and night mode. NEW App Features ✓ Brave Leo: AI assistant ✓ Firew…

Pros

  • Integrated ad blocker and VPN for all-in-one privacy
  • Free VPN included with browser (no extra cost)
  • Brave Leo AI assistant enhances browsing experience
  • Built-in private search engine (Brave Search)
  • Night mode and lightning-fast browsing speed

Cons

  • VPN is limited to browser traffic only (not system-wide)
  • Fewer server locations compared to dedicated VPNs
  • Some advanced VPN features require extra configuration

ExpressVPN – Fast, Secure Android VPN for Private Browsing START YOUR 3-DAY FREE TRIAL TODAY Get full access to all features and test speed, security, and performance on your Android device and other supported devices, including Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, gaming consoles, and…

Pros

  • High-speed VPN with thousands of servers worldwide
  • System-wide VPN protection for all apps
  • 3-day free trial without commitment
  • Excellent for streaming and bypassing geo-blocks
  • Trusted brand with strong privacy policies

Cons

  • Requires subscription after trial (no free tier)
  • No built-in ad blocker or browser features
  • Slightly lower rating than Brave (4.69 vs 4.74)

Final Verdict

Our pick: Brave Private Web Browser, VPN

For most Android users seeking a seamless privacy experience, Brave Browser with its integrated VPN is the better choice due to its high rating, massive user base, and free VPN service. However, if your primary need is a fast, reliable VPN for streaming and accessing geo-restricted content, ExpressVPN's dedicated app and server network are superior. Brave wins for everyday browsing privacy, while ExpressVPN wins for heavy VPN usage. Overall, we recommend Brave for its versatility and value, but ExpressVPN for specialized VPN needs.

Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app icon

Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Screenshots

Official app screenshots from the Google Play Store.

Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 1
Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 1
Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 2
Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 2
Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 3
Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 3
Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 4
Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 4
Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 5
Brave Private Web Browser, VPN Android app screenshot 5
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app icon

ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Screenshots

Official app screenshots from the Google Play Store.

ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 1
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 1
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 2
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 2
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 3
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 3
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 4
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 4
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 5
ExpressVPN: VPN Fast & Secure Android app screenshot 5

Frequently Asked Questions

Which app has a higher rating?

Brave Browser has a slightly higher rating of 4.74 compared to ExpressVPN's 4.69, based on over 100 million installs each.

Can I use these apps offline?

Brave Browser's VPN requires internet, but the browser itself can load cached pages offline. ExpressVPN requires an internet connection to function.

Do these apps support ad blocking?

Yes, Brave Browser has a built-in ad blocker. ExpressVPN does not block ads; it only encrypts your connection.

What are the device requirements?

Both apps require Android 5.0 or higher. ExpressVPN also supports Android TV and Fire TV, while Brave is primarily a mobile browser.

Which app should I choose for privacy?

If you want a free, integrated privacy solution, choose Brave. For a premium, system-wide VPN with global servers, choose ExpressVPN.