ExpressVPN 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, it could be among the biggest updates the provider drops this year.
Split tunnelling
Split tunnelling is often overlooked on Mac due to restrictions Apple has enforced, limiting its functionality. However, since this version of ExpressVPN’s app is only available via its website, it can now bring the functionality to Mac users.
Currently, you can only choose which apps don’t 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 to use the VPN instead.
Split tunnelling enables you to continue using apps that block or struggle with VPNs as usual by routing them outside of the VPN tunnel. This could include banking sites, streaming services, or Android Auto.
Post-quantum WireGuard
ExpressVPN’s post-quantum protections are now also included on Mac. Previously, only traditional OpenVPN and ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol were available to users. Now, post-quantum WireGuard gives Mac users the protocol required to protect themselves against ‘harvest now, decrypt later’ attacks.
We recently retested ExpressVPN’s traditional WireGuard protocol as part of our ExpressVPN review. While it’s nowhere near as speedy as Lightway Turbo, 694 Mbps is more than fast enough for most people, and particularly impressive with post-quantum encryption.
WireGuard/fastest VPN protocol
Download speeds to 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 might seem minimal, but if you’re after 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 join.”
So, if you don’t need the VPN when connected to your home WiFi, you can set it disconnected once your connected to that network. Alternatively, if you’re wary of public Wi-Fi connections, then you can set ExpressVPN to auto-connect.
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, too.
Advanced kill switch
The company’s latest update to its MacOS kill switch promises to protect your data even while you’re 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 is paused if you’re switching servers or being reconnected after an unexpected disconnect. This ensures no personal data is left unprotected in the brief window where your VPN connection drops as you switch servers.
We retested ExpressVPN’s killswitch in late 2025 and genuinely were impressed with the results and with these added functionalities, Mac users will be even better protected.
Dark mode
It’s not revolutionary, but it’s what I’m most excited for. Dark mode brings a new, sleek look to ExpressVPN on MacOS. It promises to “reduce visual strain and improve visibility in low-light environment,” according to its release notes.
Like many, I can’t think of an app that I use in ‘Light Mode’ anymore. Last summer, ExpressVPN’s mobile app made the switch and now it’s available on Mac, too. The redesign switches ExpressVPN’s clean white look for a grey-ish black look that gives the app a similar feel to providers such as Proton VPN — and I love it.
Switching is as simple as a quick toggle option in the settings menu, so it’s easy to make the switch.
What else is 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 is:
- Command-line control (expressvpnctl): A tool which allows you to control ExpressVPN from the terminal, as well as automate tasks and run scripted operations
- Dedicated IP: Although you still need to activate it via your mobile device, your dedicated IP now works within the MacOS app
- Improved language support: There are now 17 supported languages in-app.
- Redesigned navigation: Providing easier access to common actions, including:
- Smart Location – connecting to the recommended best server
- Recent Location – reconnect to the last server used
- Protocol selection – now accessible via the main screen
- Server map view
- Favorites: Up to 10 server locations can be marked as favorites for quicker access
- New notifications: including helpful messaging around new features and settings
ExpressVPN already ranks among the best VPNs for Mac. While it’s not quite rivaling top-seed NordVPN, with these updates, the gap is continuing to close. For now, NordVPN remains a superior choice if you stream on Mac or you’re after a spread of additional features such as password management, data breach alerts, and threat protection.
What’s your favorite new addition to Mac? Leave a comment for a chance to be included in our Mac VPN content.
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