ExpressVPN: Geo-Block Failure (Delivery)
Reviewers report that ExpressVPN’s ability to bypass geo-blocks in China is inconsistent and increasingly unreliable, with 13 negative mentions outweighing just 2 positive ones. The overall trend shows a growing number of users experiencing complete failure to connect or maintain stable access while in China, despite earlier reports of success. Many describe the service as ineffective, with connections failing immediately, dropping frequently, or resulting in unusably slow speeds. A few users still report limited success, particularly with web-based access to restricted sites, but these cases are rare and often come with caveats. The consensus among users is that ExpressVPN no longer reliably works in China, a critical shortcoming for those relying on it for access to global content.
What customers praise
Some users praise ExpressVPN for its wide range of server options and ease of use, noting that it generally performs well outside of China. A few reviewers confirm it can still bypass the Great Firewall, allowing access to websites like Google and TikTok, though often only through web versions, not the apps. These positive experiences are typically limited to users who tested the service before 2025 or in specific regions.
What customers said:
- „Only concern is whether it is usable in China.“
- „Works well, and is able to bypass the great firewall.“
- „most of the time have free internet access with the vpn.“
Common complaints
The most common complaint is that ExpressVPN fails entirely in China, with users reporting no connection, immediate disconnections, or extremely slow speeds. Many say the app does not work at all, even when switching servers. Some describe the experience as a 'complete waste of money,' especially when the service fails during critical times like travel. A recurring issue is the inability to access local apps or even basic web services while connected.
What customers said:
- „It just did not work at all.“
- „It is quite expensive for doing absolutely nothing.“
- „The moment i got to china it would not work“
How it has changed over time
While no monthly history is available, user reports suggest a decline in performance over time, particularly from early 2025 onward. One reviewer explicitly states that the service worked until January 2025, after which it stopped functioning entirely. Others note that performance degraded after initial use, with stable connections turning unreliable. This indicates a possible worsening of compatibility with China’s internet restrictions over time.
What customers said:
- „Chinese apps don’t work with this VPN or have delays“
- „Unfortunately, the VPN no longer works in China.“
„Unfortunately, the VPN no longer works in China.“
Original„Leider funktioniert das VPN in China nicht mehr.“
Practical takeaways
For users in China, ExpressVPN is not a reliable solution for bypassing geo-blocks. If access to global content is essential, alternative services may be more effective. Users should be cautious about subscription renewals, as some report automatic charges and difficulty canceling. Testing the service before relying on it for travel is strongly advised, especially given the high failure rate reported.
What customers said:
- „Unexpected automatic charges and no easy way to cancel.“
- „this is a subscription, and they will silently renew“
- „But nothing worked in January 2025.“
„But nothing worked in January 2025.“
Original„Im Januar 2025 ging aber nichts mehr.“
Customer voices
Short excerpts - full reviews are available at the original source.
„Absolutely the worst use of money I have ever spent.“
„Is this specifically for China?“
„Terrible experience for china.“
„Literally terrible connection in China via both Computer and IPad“
„This App will not help you in China.“
„I used the service in China and found that it was much harder to connect compared to other VPNs, and the connection speed was also very slow.“
„Connection are unstable (especially in the night and LOL during every rain and storm)“
„Absolutely useless for China.“
Cite this page
Citatio (2026). ExpressVPN Delivery – Geo-Block Failure: customer reviews 2026. Retrieved 1 September 2026 from https://citatio.ai/expressvpn-reviews/delivery/geo-block-failure/
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