ExpressVPN has just launched its new QT-based MacOS app, bringing loads of new features to users.
ExpressVPN says the new app is “redesigned with a cleaner layout, improved navigation and new features” in its update notes. From what I’ve seen, this could be among the biggest updates the carrier drops this year.
Split tunneling
Split tunneling is often overlooked on the Mac due to restrictions Apple has enforced, limiting its functionality. But since this version of ExpressVPN’s app is only available through its website, it can now bring the functionality to Mac users.
Currently, you can only choose which apps do not use the VPN connection. This is the most common method used by the best VPNs on Mac. However, IPVanish offers the option to select only the apps that need to use the VPN instead.
Split tunneling allows you to continue using apps that block or fight VPNs as normal by routing them outside the VPN tunnel. This could include banking websites, streaming services or Android Auto.
Post-quantum WireGuard
ExpressVPN’s post-quantum protection is now also included on Mac. Previously, only traditional OpenVPN and ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol were available to users. Now, post-quantum WireGuard provides Mac users with the necessary protocol to protect themselves against ‘harvest now, decrypt later’ attacks.
We recently retested ExpressVPN’s traditional WireGuard protocol as part of our ExpressVPN review. While not nearly as fast as the Lightway Turbo, 694Mbps is more than fast enough for most people, and especially impressive with post-quantum encryption.
WireGuard/fastest VPN protocol
Download speeds for our VPN test lab when connected to the nearest server
WireGuard/fastest protocol speed
| Product | Value (Mbps) |
|---|---|
| Surfshark | 1615 |
| NordVPN | 1256 |
| ExpressVPN (Lightway Turbo) | 1479 |
| ExpressVPN (WireGuard) | 694 |
| Proton VPN | 1521 |
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Network automation
Network automation may seem minimal, but if you’re looking for stress-free security on MacOS, it’s a must-use. With the latest version of the app, you can “set rules that automatically connect or disconnect the VPN based on the networks you connect to.”
So if you don’t need the VPN when you’re connected to your home WiFi, you can set it to offline when you’re connected to that network. Alternatively, if you’re wary of public Wi-Fi connections, you can set ExpressVPN to connect automatically.
While this is definitely more beneficial for mobile users, we’d recommend setting it up as soon as your app is installed on a Mac as well.
Advanced kill switch
The company’s latest update to the MacOS kill switch promises to protect your data even while switching servers or reconnecting. As the update notes explain, “the internet kill switch can now remain active even while reconnecting, blocking all non-VPN traffic during transitions.”
This means that any background activity taking place over the internet on your device will be paused if you switch servers or reconnect after an unexpected disconnection. This ensures that no personal data is left unprotected during the short window where your VPN connection drops when you switch servers.
We retested ExpressVPN’s killswitch at the end of 2025 and were really impressed with the results, and with these added features, Mac users will be even better protected.
Dark mode
It’s not revolutionary, but it’s what I’m most excited about. Dark Mode brings a new, sleek look to ExpressVPN on MacOS. It promises to “reduce visual strain and improve visibility in low-light environments,” according to its release notes.
Like many others, I can no longer think of an app that I use in ‘Light Mode’. Last summer, ExpressVPN’s mobile app changed, and now it’s also available on Mac. The redesign switches ExpressVPN’s clean white look to a grayish black look that gives the app a similar feel to providers like Proton VPN – and I love it.
Switching is as simple as a quick toggle in the settings menu, so switching is easy.
What’s new?
If some of these developments sound familiar, that’s because some of it was released in beta in late 2025. That said, this update has a lot more to offer than just a new look and some modest feature improvements.
Also included in the latest update are:
- Command line control (expressvpnctl): A tool that allows you to control ExpressVPN from the terminal, as well as automate tasks and run scripted operations
- Dedicated IP: Although you still have to activate it via your mobile device, your dedicated IP now works in the MacOS app
- Improved language support: There are now 17 supported languages in the app.
- Redesigned navigation: Provides easier access to common actions, including:
- Smart Location – connects to the recommended best server
- Last location – reconnect to the last used server
- Protocol selection – now available via the main screen
- Server map view
- Favorites: Up to 10 server locations can be marked as favorites for faster access
- New announcements: including useful messages about new functions and settings
ExpressVPN is already among the best VPNs for Mac. While it doesn’t quite compete with top-seed NordVPN, with these updates, the gap continues to close. For now, NordVPN remains a superior choice if you’re streaming on Mac or if you’re looking for a spread of additional features such as password management, data breach alerts, and threat protection.
What’s your favorite new addition to the Mac? Leave a comment for a chance to be included in our Mac VPN content.
