A keen eye for detail is quintessential when choosing between two of the biggest names in the VPN world. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are high-value providers, and they’re two of our favorite VPNs for their outstanding performance on benchmarks like security, streaming, and speed.
Also: The best VPN services: Expert tested and reviewed
Based on my hands-on experience testing both services, one may offer a slight advantage over the other, depending on what you want to achieve with a VPN. Both services offer automatic connection to optimal servers, promise a 30-day money-back guarantee, and offer no-logs policies. Here’s how to decide which VPN is best for you.
|
Spec |
ExpressVPN |
NordVPN |
|
Starting price |
||
|
Servers |
3,000+ |
6,500+ |
|
Countries |
105 |
113 |
|
Specialty servers |
None |
Double VPN, P2P, Onion over VPN, obfuscated servers |
|
Protocols |
Lightway (proprietary), OpenVPN IKEv2/IPSec |
NordLynx (proprietary), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec |
|
Security |
AES 256-bit (with PFS), kill switch, leak protection, RAM-only |
AES 256-bit GCM encryption, kill switch, leak protection, antivirus, dark web monitoring, |
|
Ad & malware block |
Yes (Threat Manager) |
Yes (Threat Protection Pro) |
|
No-logs policy |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Jurisdiction |
British Virgin Islands (outside of 5/9/14 Eyes) |
Panama (outside of 5/9/14 Eyes) |
|
Free/ trial/ money-back guarantee |
7-day trial, 30-day refund policy |
Android free trial, 30-day refund policy |
|
Simultaneous connections |
8 |
10 |
|
Compatible devices |
iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV Stick, Chromecast, Kindle, Routers, consoles, extensions (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave) |
iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows, Linux, Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV Stick, routers, gaming consoles, Kindle Fire, Chromecast, extensions (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) |
You should choose ExpressVPN if…
1. You want a VPN reliable for streaming & geo-restrictions
ExpressVPN is relentless with geoblocks. Whether you’re trying to access streaming, gaming, shopping, or payment platforms, my experience with the services has always been smooth. ExpressVPN isn’t optimized for specific streaming sites like CyberGhost, but the entire server network is obfuscated. This advanced technology disguises your VPN usage, avoiding detection. In comparison, NordVPN’s obfuscation only works with the OpenVPN protocol.
Also: The best VPN for streaming: Expert tested and reviewed
Also, ExpressVPN’s vast IP address pool is constantly refreshed, removing any residual IPs that may have already been blocked on streaming platforms for policy violations. Given its excellent performance, it can be most useful for accessing global content or international travel.
2. You want a more intuitive and user-friendly VPN app
ExpressVPN has a straightforward design. It’s easier to use as a beginner than NordVPN, which is cluttered with several settings that can be a turn-off for inexperienced users. Also, ExpressVPN is compatible with more devices than NordVPN, offering even a native app for routers, so you don’t need to perform complex manual setups.
Also: ExpressVPN review: One of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested
3. You want a premium VPN service with a free trial
ExpressVPN has a 7-day free trial that can be used on any device. Previously the trial was only available to mobile users subscribing from the Google Play or App Store. NordVPN doesn’t have a free trial, but Android users can try the service for free if they subscribe via Google Play Store. Both providers have a 30-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free trial.
You should choose NordVPN if…
1. You want highly customized online protection settings
NordVPN is heavily vested in digital security. Beyond encrypting connections and maintaining privacy, it beats ExpressVPN with some other extras like specialty servers (DoubleVPN, Onion Over VPN, and P2P), a malware scanner for downloaded files, and a Dark Web Monitor to alert you if your sensitive information has leaked on the web. Another feature, Meshnet, allows you to set up a private network over which you can securely share files between devices anywhere or play games with friends online with minimal latency.
Also: NordVPN review: Consistent speed and performance from one of our favorite VPNs
2. You want speedy server connections
NordVPN’s proprietary protocol, NordLynx, has relatively faster connections than ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol. These two are by far the best VPNs for speed, whether you want to stream or play online games without lag. NordVPN was consistent on most server locations in my speed tests, with connections dropping by 5-25% on nearby and faraway servers. On some server locations in the US, ExpressVPN performed better and even had lower latency, ideal for gaming.
Also: The best VPN for gaming: Expert tested and reviewed
3. You’re looking for a fair price point
NordVPN is the more affordable option of the two high-end services. Not only does it offer a cheaper entry price, but there are more tiered subscriptions to choose from on both short and long-term plans. The 2-year plan costs $96.93 ($3.59/month) or $121.23 ($4.49/month) with Threat Protection Pro and Password Manager, while ExpressVPN is $139.72 ($4.99/month) for 2 years.