Compare Merlin AI and ExpressVPN: Which App is the Best?
Merlin AI combines ChatGPT, Grok AI, DeepSeek, Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity AI in one powerful app with 70+ AI tools. Enjoy 102 free daily queries and seamless cross-platform integration. | ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service with 50M+ downloads and 4.7/5 rating, offering fast speeds, strong security, and 105+ server locations, though it comes with a high price point and recent connection stability issues. | |
| Key Features A summary of the most important features offered by each app. |
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| Our Rating Prod Apps's expert review score for each app, based on hands-on testing and research. | 8.3 Winner in this category | 7.5 |
| Total users Total active users across all major browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. | 0 | 0 |
| Total ratings Total number of user ratings received across all supported browsers. | 0 | 0 |
| Average rating Average user rating across all browsers, calculated from available store ratings. | — ⭐ | — ⭐ |
| Entry Level Price The minimum price required to start using the app. "Free" means a free tier is available. | Free | Free |
| Android User rating and stats for the app on Android browser. |  Downloads | Downloads |
| iOS User rating and stats for the app on iOS browser. |  | |
| Features Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Features' aspect of each app. | 9.0 Merlin AI has everything you'd want in an AI assistant. It brings together seven different AI models - ChatGPT, Grok AI, DeepSeek, Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity AI - all in one place. This means you don't need separate subscriptions for each one. We really liked the 70+ AI tools it comes with:
The best part is how easy it is to switch between different AI models - just one tap and you're using a different AI. Plus, everything syncs across your devices so you can start a conversation on your phone and continue it on your computer. Winner in this category | 8.0 ExpressVPN offers a comprehensive set of features that justify its premium positioning. The service includes military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and advanced security protocols like the proprietary Lightway protocol. The kill switch protection, split tunneling, and built-in password manager provide comprehensive security options for different use cases. What sets ExpressVPN apart is its extensive server network spanning 105+ countries, including specialized servers for streaming and enhanced privacy. Unlike Proton VPN which offers a free tier with limited servers, ExpressVPN provides access to 105+ server locations worldwide. The service also includes advanced features like split tunneling for selective routing and a built-in password manager (ExpressVPN Keys), which adds value beyond basic VPN functionality. However, the service lacks some advanced features found in newer VPN providers, such as multi-hop connections and specialized servers for specific use cases. The service also doesn't offer some cutting-edge features like obfuscated servers or advanced privacy features that some competitors provide. Compared to free alternatives like Proton VPN or Windscribe VPN, ExpressVPN offers significantly more features, but the premium pricing means users need to evaluate whether these additional capabilities justify the cost. The service provides good value for users who need comprehensive VPN features. |
| Performance Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Performance' aspect of each app. | 8.0 The app runs smoothly without lag or interruptions when chatting with multiple AI models. The search function works quickly and accurately, so you can easily find your conversations. We tested it on different devices and platforms, and it performed well everywhere. The chat responses are fast, even when switching between different AI models. The cross-device sync works reliably, so you can start a conversation on your phone and pick it up later on your computer. The integration with Gmail and LinkedIn works well without delays. We did notice some occasional loading times when processing complex requests or large documents, but overall the performance is consistent and reliable for everyday use. The best part is that basic features work offline, so you can access your conversations even without an internet connection. Winner in this category | 6.0 ExpressVPN's performance is inconsistent, with good speeds when working but frequent connection issues that significantly impact usability. The service offers fast connection speeds with the Lightway protocol, and the extensive server network provides good coverage for most use cases. The service works well for streaming and geo-blocking when connected. However, the service's performance is significantly impacted by connection stability issues. Many users report frequent disconnections, slow connection times, and the need to manually reconnect multiple times per day. The auto-connect feature doesn't work reliably, and some users experience issues with the app not connecting at all. The service's performance issues are particularly concerning given the premium pricing. Users expect reliability and performance from a paid service, but ExpressVPN's connection problems make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives that offer similar performance with fewer limitations. Compared to other premium VPNs like NordVPN or Surfshark VPN, ExpressVPN's performance is below average. The connection stability issues make it difficult to justify the premium pricing, and users might find better value with alternatives that offer similar features with better reliability. |
| Design Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Design' aspect of each app. | 8.0 The app looks clean and modern. It's easy to find what you need without getting lost in menus. The chat interface is well-designed with clear differences between responses from different AI models. We liked how the app works the same way whether you're on Android, iOS, or desktop. It adapts nicely to different screen sizes. The dark and light theme options are a nice touch, and you can customize the interface to your liking. The mobile version works really well too - you can easily access your AI conversations on your phone without any issues. | 8.5 ExpressVPN's interface strikes an excellent balance between functionality and user-friendliness. The main screen provides quick access to connection controls, server selection, and key settings. The server selection process is intuitive and visually appealing, making it easy to choose servers in different countries. The app's design is clean and professional, with a modern interface that's easy on the eyes. The connection status is clearly displayed, and the kill switch toggle is easily accessible. The settings menu is well-organized, allowing users to customize their experience without feeling overwhelmed. The interface is generally user-friendly and doesn't overwhelm users with complex options. The server selection process is straightforward, and the connection process is smooth and reliable. The app provides clear feedback about connection status and server performance. Compared to other premium VPNs like NordVPN or Surfshark VPN, ExpressVPN's design is competitive and well-polished. The interface is functional and professional, with good attention to detail and user experience. The design reflects the premium positioning of the service. Winner in this category |
| Value for Money Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Value for Money' aspect of each app. | 9.0 Merlin AI offers great value. You can use it for free without creating an account, and you get 102 queries per day across all the major AI models. This free access to ChatGPT, Grok AI, DeepSeek, Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity AI in one app saves you from needing multiple expensive subscriptions. The premium plan adds useful features like voice chat, advanced AI tools, and team collaboration. The pricing is reasonable, making it a good choice for students, professionals, and anyone who wants to boost their productivity. When we compared it to individual subscriptions for these AI services, Merlin AI saves you money while offering more convenience. You really can't find another tool that gives you this much value for so little cost. Winner in this category | 6.5 ExpressVPN's value proposition is mixed, with strong security features but questionable reliability for the premium price. The service offers comprehensive security features, extensive server network, and good performance when working properly. The ability to connect up to 8 devices simultaneously is generous for most users. The service's pricing is competitive with other premium VPNs, but the recent connection stability issues make it difficult to justify the cost. Users who prioritize security and are willing to deal with connection problems might find value in the service, but those seeking reliability and performance might be better served by alternatives like Proton VPN. However, the service's value is significantly impacted by connection stability issues and customer service challenges. Many users report frequent disconnections and the need to manually reconnect multiple times per day. The premium pricing doesn't translate to the reliability and performance that users expect from a paid service. Compared to free alternatives like Proton VPN or Windscribe VPN, ExpressVPN offers more features but at a significantly higher cost. The connection stability issues make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives that offer similar performance with fewer limitations. |
| Ease of Use Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Ease of Use' aspect of each app. | 9.0 Merlin AI is one of the easiest AI assistants we've tried. You can start using it right away without any complicated setup. The free tier gives you 102 queries per day, which is plenty to test everything out. Installing it is simple, and it works great on both Android and iOS. Switching between AI models is super easy - just tap to change from ChatGPT to Grok AI to Claude, and so on. The integration with Gmail and LinkedIn works smoothly. You don't need to configure anything complicated. The free tier lets you explore all the features without committing to anything, which makes it easy to learn at your own pace. We give it a 9 out of 10 because it's really user-friendly, though some of the more advanced features might take a bit of time to figure out. Winner in this category | 7.5 ExpressVPN is generally easy to use for basic VPN functionality, with a simple one-tap connection process that requires no technical knowledge. The app's interface is intuitive, and most users can get connected quickly without any setup or configuration. The service offers automatic server selection and connection, making it accessible to users of all technical levels. The app doesn't require complex configuration, and the connection process is straightforward. The service works well for most use cases and provides good performance when functioning properly. However, the service's ease of use is compromised by recent connection stability issues. Many users report frequent connection drops and the need to manually reconnect multiple times per day. The app can be slow to connect, and some users experience issues with the auto-connect feature not working reliably. Compared to other premium VPNs like NordVPN or Surfshark VPN, ExpressVPN's ease of use is similar but not significantly better. The connection stability issues can be frustrating for users who expect reliability from a paid service, and the premium pricing doesn't translate to a significantly better user experience. |
| Security & Privacy Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Security & Privacy' aspect of each app. | 7.0 For security and privacy, we give Merlin AI a 7 out of 10. The app uses standard encryption for your conversations and personal data, which is good. However, since it connects to multiple AI providers, your data might be shared with these third-party services. This is mentioned in their privacy policy, but it's something to be aware of. The app doesn't ask for unnecessary permissions, but remember that your conversations and any documents you upload are processed by external AI services. While the company is transparent about how they use data, we would have liked more control over what gets shared with which AI providers. They do a good job of being upfront about it, but some users might want more control over their data. | 8.5 ExpressVPN takes security and privacy seriously, with military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited. The service uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols including OpenVPN and the proprietary Lightway protocol. The kill switch protection ensures that internet traffic is blocked if the VPN connection drops. The service's no-logs policy is comprehensive and has been verified by independent security firms. ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, which provides some legal protection for user privacy. The service also includes advanced features like split tunneling for enhanced security and privacy protection. However, ExpressVPN has faced some security concerns in the past, particularly around its acquisition by Kape Technologies. While the company has maintained its privacy commitments, some users remain concerned about the service's ownership and data practices. The service also lacks some advanced privacy features found in newer VPN providers. Compared to other premium VPNs like NordVPN or Surfshark VPN, ExpressVPN's security practices are solid but not exceptional. The service provides good protection for most users, but those with high security requirements might want to consider alternatives with more advanced privacy features. Winner in this category |
| Conclusion A summary of our findings and final thoughts for each app. | Merlin AI stands out as an exceptional all-in-one AI assistant that successfully combines multiple AI models with practical tools. The generous free tier makes it accessible to everyone, while the premium features offer significant value for power users. For anyone looking to consolidate their AI tools into one powerful platform, Merlin AI delivers an impressive and well-rounded experience. | ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service that offers comprehensive security features and extensive server coverage, but its value proposition is compromised by recent connection stability issues and customer service challenges. The service provides good security and privacy protection, but the frequent disconnections and reliability problems make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives.
For users who prioritize security and are willing to deal with connection issues, ExpressVPN offers a solid feature set with good performance when working. However, those seeking reliability and consistent performance might find better value with alternatives like Proton VPN that offer similar features with better stability, or Thunder VPN for a more user-friendly free experience.
Ultimately, ExpressVPN's premium pricing doesn't translate to the reliability and performance that users expect from a paid service. While the service offers good security features, the connection stability issues make it difficult to justify the cost over free alternatives that provide similar performance with fewer limitations. |
| Our Recommendation | ||
