ExpressVPN vs Folder Lock

ExpressVPN is a premium consumer VPN known for fast speeds, a large global server network, and a very easy setup, with an audited no-logs policy. It is a mainstream, polished choice.

Folder Lock, from NewSoftwares.net, is a longstanding Windows file-security application that lets users lock, hide, and encrypt files and folders using AES 256-bit encryption. It creates password-protected encrypted lockers that can live on local drives as well as sync to cloud storage such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive, and it can send encrypted files by email in a self-contained format that recipients can open without installing the program. Beyond encryption, Folder Lock includes a file shredder for permanently deleting sensitive files and can clear Windows temporary files, clipboard data, program tracks, and media history. The vendor states it has more than 55 million users, and pricing is a flat one-time license (around $39.95) rather than a recurring subscription, with a free version also available.

• Fast and reliable
• Very easy to use
• Large server network
• Good for streaming

• One-time license pricing rather than a recurring subscription
• Free version available to try core locking and hiding features before buying
• Encrypted lockers can sync to popular cloud storage providers
• Long track record with a large stated user base

• No free tier
• Pricier than rivals
• Fewer power-user features

• Primarily a Windows desktop product rather than cross-platform
• Encrypted email format (SITW) is proprietary rather than a common open standard
• Interface and feature set reflect an older-style Windows utility rather than a modern minimalist app