ExpressVPN and NordVPN are the leaders of today's global VPN industry, serving as great examples of how a capable, feature-rich, and fast-developing VPN should look like. So, it's no surprise that they're featured in our overview of the best VPN services. However, that also makes deciding between these two VPNs quite difficult, and that's exactly where our NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN comparison comes into play.
On the one hand, we have ExpressVPN, which provides security, privacy, extra-fast performance, and servers in 90+ countries. As such, this VPN is suitable for practically any use - privacy protection, streaming, torrenting, gaming, and more. On the other hand, the same can be said for NordVPN, which also takes care of your privacy, has servers in around 60 countries, but also brings a range of unique features.
As you can already see, our ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN comparison will need to be in-depth, as that's the only way to uncover the differences between the two VPNs. That said, let's begin by giving you a quick comparison of their most prominent features.
In this in-depth comparison, we'll help you decide whether to pick ExpressVPN or NordVPN, based on your needs, priorities, and budget. We'll do that by going through a range of individual aspects of the VPN services, providing a direct comparison.
More precisely, we'll talk about their backgrounds, supported devices, installation procedures, prominent features, ease of use, media streaming and torrenting support, performance, and pricing, among other things.
If you're curious about a specific aspect, use the table of contents found just below. However, it's always best to be thorough and read everything. That said, let's begin with our ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN comparison.
Background, Jurisdiction & Reputation
When choosing a VPN, you'll want to check its background first. Ideally, you should pick a VPN outside the 5/9/14-Eyes Alliance, without any privacy incidents in the past. Let's see how ExpressVPN and NordVPN compare in that aspect.
ExpressVPN (Score - 9/10)
ExpressVPN comes from the British Virgin Islands. It's outside of the 14-Eyes Alliance, which is always a good starting point. However, Kape Technologies acquired ExpressVPN in 2021, which means it's no longer an independent company. In fact, it has the same owners as CyberGhost VPN, ZenMate VPN, and Private Internet Access (PIA).
That might sound problematic, as ExpressVPN is no longer an "indie" VPN. However, the reality is that ExpressVPN is among the most progressive VPNs in terms of privacy protection. It goes through regular in-depth audits, proving its commitment to its no-logs policy. On top of that, it uses RAM-only servers, eliminating any chance of data logging.
We'll also mention that ExpressVPN has had no problematic events in the past. This VPN never logged any private information. Also, there was never a data leak. Since it has been in the VPN business for more than a decade, it's clear that you can trust this VPN.
NordVPN (Score - 8.5/10)
NordVPN comes from Panama, a privacy-friendly country with no mandatory data retention laws. Like ExpressVPN, NordVPN goes through regular audits of its policies and infrastructure, so it's a guaranteed no-logs VPN service.
However, it's important to mention that NordVPN has once been hacked in 2018, which left a dent in the VPN's reputation. Still, no user data was exposed in that incident, which happened when a malicious actor targeted a third-party data center. Since then, NordVPN has increased its dedication to independent audits.
Just like ExpressVPN, NordVPN uses RAM-only servers as well. So, even though it has a solid no-logs policy, it uses additional systems to prevent your data from being logged. That said, we don't hesitate to recommend NordVPN if your focus is your privacy and digital security.
Who's the Winner? - ExpressVPN!
Due to its reputation, we crown ExpressVPN as the winner in this category. Overall, both of these VPNs deserve your trust as they come from privacy-friendly jurisdictions. That means you're covered more than well when it comes to the basics. No mandatory data retention laws are involved, no data leaks, and you get to count on a no-logs policy.
However, NordVPN has been hacked once - and we can't deny that fact. So, if you wish to play it extra safe, you should get ExpressVPN, which has been around for a decade without any kind of incidents, which tells a lot.
Supported Platforms & Devices
Depending on how many devices you want to use, you need a VPN service whose apps work on the most popular platforms. Luckily for you, both ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer decent cross-platform compatibility. Continue reading to learn more.
ExpressVPN (Score - 10/10)
ExpressVPN offers a wide range of native apps that can be installed on all popular desktop and mobile operating systems. You also have the freedom to use Web browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Those extensions aren't proxies, which is the case with most other VPNs. They are VPN extensions that require ExpressVPN's app to work.
Furthermore, you can install ExpressVPN on VPN-compatible routers powered by OpenVPN, DD-WRT, and various stock firmware types, and use it on up to 5 devices at the same time. On top of that, you can get ExpressVPN's Aircove, which is the VPN's own router. As far as we know, no other VPNs offer their own routers, making ExpressVPN the leader in that field.
NordVPN (Score - 10/10)
When it comes to supported platforms and devices, NordVPN doesn't disappoint. It offers highly polished apps for every popular platform out there. So, no matter if you need a VPN for your Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS device, NordVPN will meet your needs.
Also, just like ExpressVPN, NordVPN works on dedicated streaming devices. That means you can use its native application for FireOS and Android TV. Furthermore, you can set it up on a wide range of routers. Of course, you'll need to go through manual configuration in that case.
NordVPN can be used on 6 devices at the same time, which gives it a small advantage over its direct competitor (ExpressVPN limits you to 5 simultaneous connections).
Who's the Winner? - It's a Tie!
ExpressVPN and NordVPN are two of the longest-standing VPNs. So, it's no surprise that they offer polished software for practically any platform out there. In other words, when it comes to their supported platforms and devices, there are no significant differences between the VPNs.
That said, we recommend you get NordVPN if you need more simultaneous connections, as this VPN gives you 6 of those. And we recommend you get ExpressVPN if you want a one-click VPN application or if you wish to run your VPN on a router.
Installation & Initial Configuration
Getting started with a VPN shouldn't be a tiresome process. Instead, it should take a couple of minutes of your time, which is achieved by offering native apps that come without complicated installation methods. So, here's what ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer.
ExpressVPN (Score - 10/10)
After signing up for a new account, you are free to download any of ExpressVPN's apps. This is done by logging into your account on the VPN's website, picking your platform, and you can then download the required installation files.
ExpressVPN doesn’t contain any bloatware, so it takes up very little space on your hard drive. You can install and start using it in less than a few minutes on desktop and mobile devices.
ExpressVPN also has numerous helpful installation guides for all devices, including routers. And if you're in a restrictive country, such as China, this VPN offers alternative ways to get to its installation files. So, in terms of installing this VPN, you're covered more than well.
NordVPN (Score - 10/10)
Just like its direct competitor, NordVPN features a highly polished installation process as well. The setup file is quite small, so you don’t need a fast connection, and you should be ready to connect to VPN servers in under a minute.
Aside from desktop and mobile devices, NordVPN can be installed on compatible routers as well. Like ExpressVPN, this VPN also offers user-friendly step-by-step tutorials. So, even if you never installed a VPN on a router, you should have no issues setting up NordVPN.
Since NordVPN offers obfuscated servers, it can be used in restrictive countries as well. To make that happen, the VPN provides alternative applications and custom manual connections.
Who's the Winner? - It's a Tie!
No matter which of these VPNs you pick, you won't have any issues installing them. We're sure that even first-time users will manage everything on their own without relying on customer support. ExpressVPN and NordVPN come with lightweight applications that install in less than a minute, without bloatware or anything similar.
So, if you get ExpressVPN, you can count on making this VPN run in under a minute. There are also plenty of helpful guides on its website. And if you get NordVPN, you'll also be done in under a minute, thanks to a unified dashboard that gives you access to all its apps.
Prominent Features
Our next step in the debate takes us to their most important features. And yes, we're talking about privacy-related features, so make sure to pay special attention to this segment. Here's what you need to know.
ExpressVPN (Score - 9/10)
The best thing we can say about ExpressVPN is that it just works. It is a rock-solid VPN, highly reliable, and nails the fundamentals. Aside from that, you’ll get a highly polished kill switch (available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and routers) as well as highly secure VPN protocols.
On top of that, ExpressVPN offers split tunneling on Windows, macOS, Android, and routers. So, both complete beginners and highly advanced users have something useful. Let's also not forget that you get unlimited server switches, unlimited bandwidth, and unlimited data.
In terms of unique features, ExpressVPN has an anti-tracking system called Threat Manager. It's used to prevent apps and websites from communicating with third parties known to track your activity. It also includes ExpressVPN Keys (in beta), which is a very capable premium password manager (included with every subscription).
NordVPN (Score - 9/10)
NordVPN is almost overflowing with features. It has a kill switch (on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS) as well as split tunneling (Android and Windows). Needless to say, the basics are there as well. That means you get comprehensive data leak protection, matching what ExpressVPN offers.
As a response to ExpressVPN's Threat Manager, NordVPN offers Threat Protection. This feature eliminates ads, prevents trackers, and even scans small files for malware. So, it's a bit more comprehensive than what its competitor offers.
Let's not forget to mention that NordVPN offers specialized servers. For example, there are "Double VPN" servers that encrypt your connection two times. There are also servers for P2P as well as accessing the Tor network. On top of that, you get dedicated IPs as well.
Who's the Winner? - It's a Tie!
Once again, it's challenging to decide between NordVPN and ExpressVPN. In terms of privacy protection, both of these VPNs deliver in a big way. On top of that, they offer advanced protection against trackers and a plethora of features you won't find elsewhere.
That said, you can get NordVPN if you also need malware protection for your local files. That feature doesn't replace an antivirus app but can be helpful in many cases. And you can get ExpressVPN if you need a premium-level password manager (currently in beta).
Server Count & Infrastructure
Having access to servers in many countries translates to the ability to unblock the Web. That said, this ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN comparison segment will compare their server networks.
ExpressVPN (Score - 8.5/10)
ExpressVPN manages a network of over 3,000 servers in 90+ countries. That is more than enough to meet your every need. Also, you get to test the speed of each server and pick the fastest one - even before you dive into connecting to VPN servers (this feature is available on macOS only).
We'll also mention that ExpressVPN offers many 10 Gbps servers and very few virtual VPN server locations. That means its network is made of bare-metal servers (as opposed to virtual servers). Also, all ExpressVPN servers are optimized for torrenting, streaming, and gaming.
Overall, this is the VPN you should pick if you're after unblocking websites, as well as having the ability to change your IP address in an instant (since you can get a new IP from any of the 90+ countries on offer).
NordVPN (Score - 10/10)
Without any doubt, NordVPN is one of the most powerful VPNs in terms of its server network. It has more than 5,300 servers spread across the globe. However, that doesn't necessarily translate to more variety.
Compared to ExpressVPN, NordVPN only has servers in 55+ countries. Therefore, even though this VPN has more servers than its competitor, it actually gives you a much narrower range of options (you get around 60 countries as opposed to ExpressVPN's 90+ countries).
Also, NordVPN's servers aren't all-in-one servers. If you want obfuscation, you need to use an obfuscated server. If you want to download torrents, you need a P2P server, and so on. So, you'll spend more time in the app itself, managing its servers and creating your list of favorites.
Who's the Winner? - NordVPN!
We pick NordVPN as the winner of this category because it has more servers than ExpressVPN. You get more than 5,000 servers as opposed to ExpressVPN's 3,000+ servers. So, you should get NordVPN to ensure that overcrowded servers don't become a problem.
However, there are still plenty of reasons to get ExpressVPN - especially if you don't need too many servers but want access to many VPN locations. Even though it has "only" 3,000+ servers, ExpressVPN distributes them across 90+ countries.
UI/UX Design & Ease of Use
Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN come with user-friendly interfaces, and they cater to almost every type of device out there. They both have invested a lot of time and effort into refining their UI and UX, so let's focus our NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN comparison on that aspect for now.
ExpressVPN (Score - 10/10)
ExpressVPN desktop app has a simple and elegant design. The home screen has a big power button that connects you to a 'Smart Location.' If you want to pick a server manually, there is a list of recommended locations to try, as well as the full list of ExpressVPN’s servers.
If you want to dive into ExpressVPN's settings, use the "hamburger" button. The VPN does a good job of simplifying everything, so you can make adjustments with ease. You don't need to know any VPN terminology to use this VPN.
Everything said above applies to ExpressVPN's mobile apps as well. They follow a similar design philosophy, featuring a uniform design across the board. The VPN's servers and settings are available with just a few taps - without any unwanted complications.
NordVPN (Score - 10/10)
NordVPN greets you with a stylishly designed map of the world and a 'Quick Connect' option that automatically connects you to a recommended server. We love how NordVPN organizes its servers into types and countries, giving you several ways to initialize a connection.
However, NordVPN can also be a bit overwhelming for first-time users, as it takes a bit of effort to understand technical terms and icons found throughout NordVPN's applications. So, if you want to make the most out of this VPN, be prepared to spend some time learning the ropes.
When it comes to NordVPN's mobile apps, they have a similar design to what you'll see on your computer. The main focus is on a big interactive map, using which you can connect to servers. You can also access NordVPN's settings right from the main screen, which comes in handy when you want to change a protocol on the go.
Who's the Winner? - It's a Tie!
It's impossible to pick a winner in this ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN round, as both of them have really polished interfaces. In many both, both of these are great examples of how a modern UI doesn't have to be complicated to allow you to perform complex operations.
Our recommendation is to get ExpressVPN if you're after a simple, mobile-like interface without too many configuration options. And you can get NordVPN if you need a desktop-level interface that allows you to pick servers in more ways than one.
Media Streaming, Torrenting & Gaming Support
Aside from protecting your privacy, VPNs also help you unblock media streaming services, play online games, and download torrents anonymously. So, this segment will show you what to expect from those aspects.
ExpressVPN (Score - 10/10)
We strongly believe there's no better VPN for streaming than ExpressVPN. It unblocks pretty much any streaming platform out there, including Netflix (here's how to watch US Netflix with ExpressVPN), Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more.
Also, this VPN supports torrenting via all of its 3,000+ servers. This is a big advantage over other VPNs, which usually bring a smaller selection of P2P-optimized servers. The only downside is that ExpressVPN doesn't support port forwarding, but that's not a major limiting factor (you'll still find plenty of seeders, especially when using "healthy" torrent files). Here's how to use ExpressVPN for torrenting.
When it comes to gaming, ExpressVPN performed admirably. It managed to keep our ping and latency in check, even when using remote servers. So, if you wish to bypass geo-blocks and connect to specific gaming servers, ExpressVPN will meet your needs.
NordVPN (Score - 10/10)
NordVPN can unblock a huge range of streaming sites. However, you'll often find yourself trying out dozens of servers, hoping to find one that brings a smooth streaming experience. In other words, NordVPN's streaming servers aren't labeled.
Also, NordVPN supports torrenting - but only via P2P-optimized servers. You can use those with OpenVPN and WireGuard, so your privacy is protected. And just like ExpressVPN, this one also doesn't support port forwarding. To learn more, check our guides on how to use NordVPN with BitTorrent, uTorrent, and qBitTorrent.
We'll also add that NordVPN is suitable for gaming. However, its remote servers can be slow, so they'll affect your ping and latency. To resolve that issue, you can switch to a less secure VPN protocol or stick to nearby servers.
Who's the Winner? - ExpressVPN!
Without any doubt, ExpressVPN is the winner of this round. It's perhaps the most capable VPN for media streaming, playing nicely with practically any streaming site and app. On top of that, you won't have to use any streaming-friendly servers, as all ExpressVPN servers already come optimized for that activity.
If you get ExpressVPN, you can unblock any US-based or international streaming service on any device just by connecting to a server. It doesn't get better than that.
Security & Privacy
Besides unblocking content, privacy and security are the second reason why people use VPNs. Well, we're happy to say that your data is safe with both ExpressVPN and NordVPN, as you'll soon find out.
ExpressVPN (Score - 9.5/10)
ExpressVPN brings a series of capable protocols led by OpenVPN and Lightway. In fact, Lightway is ExpressVPN's own protocol, designed as a response to WireGuard. It's ultra-fast without sacrificing your privacy. You can also switch between those protocols quite easily.
Then, you can expect an audited no-logs policy coupled with RAM-only servers. That means ExpressVPN is very safe to use. Also, it's more than capable of protecting your privacy, without ever logging a single file about you.
We also ran a round of data leak tests. So, we can confirm that ExpressVPN's tunnels are very strong. You won't encounter any data leaks, and that includes IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks.
NordVPN (Score - 9.5/10)
Double encryption stands out the most here, which is something that's rarely seen these days. You get that perk if you use NordVPN's double-VPN servers. And the service offers capable privacy-focused protocols - OpenVPN, IKEv2, and NordLynx.
Their privacy policy is also easy to read through, just like ExpressVPN's. Most importantly, this is a verified no-logs VPN service. So, you don't have to worry whether any data will end up on the servers run by NordVPN.
The same applies to the integrity of NordVPN's tunnels. Even after running numerous tests, this VPN never showed any weakness. So, you won't have to worry about DNS, IP, or WebRTC leaks.
Who's the Winner? - It's a Tie!
As you can see in this ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN comparison round, these VPNs have a lot in common. We're talking about protocols like OpenVPN and AES-256 encryption, which means your privacy will be safe and sound. Also, each of these VPNs comes with extra options to further enhance your privacy.
If you get ExpressVPN, you'll get the Lightway protocol - known for its speed and the ability to unblock any website or app. And if you get NordVPN, you'll get the NordLynx protocol, which is based on WireGuard.
Speed & Performance
Security and privacy are great, but not when they come at the cost of speed. That said, this ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN comparison segment focuses on the performance of their servers.
ExpressVPN (Score - 10/10)
On average, ExpressVPN slowed us down by 12.4%, which means it's the fastest VPN available today (based on our hands-on tests). What's important to mention is that we haven't experienced any fluctuations in performance.
In other words, no matter if you connect to nearby or remote servers, ExpressVPN will always work well (which usually isn't the case with today's VPNs). Also, connecting to servers usually takes only a couple of minutes, thanks to the VPN's technology called "Parallel Connections."
We also need to praise ExpressVPN's performance in terms of long-distance connections, as we managed to stream in up to 4K using a US-based streaming platform (even though we're far from that country). So, you'll get extra-fast performance without any hiccups.
NordVPN (Score - 9/10)
During the last year or so, NordVPN has done plenty to improve its performance, and that truly shows. It's a fast VPN overall, especially if we consider all the privacy-first features it brings. However, this VPN slowed us down by 36.8% on average.
So, when compared to ExpressVPN, it's clear that NordVPN lags behind. Still, that doesn't matter much if you have a fast base connection. For example, a 50 Mbps connection will still let you stream in HD and even 4K. However, if your connection is on the slow side, you'll appreciate the performance boost that NordVPN's competitor brings.
It's also worth mentioning that we used OpenVPN in this comparison, as that's the protocol these VPNs have in common. You can opt for NordVPN's NordLynx if you need extra performance, but ExpressVPN comes out on top even in that case.
Who's the Winner? - ExpressVPN!
If you care about speed, you should get ExpressVPN. Our team's tests show ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN available today. Whether you pick nearby or highly remote VPN servers, this VPN somehow provides extra-fast and stable speeds in each case.
Of course, NordVPN isn't too bad, either. However, compared to ExpressVPN, NordVPN falls behind when it comes to remote servers. You can still reach realtively fast speeds, but you'll need to spend some time optimizing this VPN.
Customer Support
We were very impressed by the levels of support these VPNs offer. Whichever one you pick, you’ll get the help you need, in a timely manner. Here's more information.
ExpressVPN (Score - 10/10)
ExpressVPN was lightning-fast in responding via live chat (available 24/7). Over email, they took a bit longer (three hours). Still, you may not even need to talk to anyone because their website contains plenty of tutorials and guides to help you find the solution you need.
Trust us that you won't find yourself lost at any moment, no matter what questions you have or what technical issues you might experience. On top of that, ExpressVPN has a very helpful and active blog, which you can use to learn more about VPNs, cyber-security threats, and about the VPN itself (regarding new features and similar).
NordVPN (Score - 10/10)
As good as ExpressVPN’s live chat was, we were even more impressed with NordVPN's 24/7 support. Their reps were just as fast, and we didn’t feel like they were reading from a script. That said, we're confident that you'll be happy as well.
NordVPN also offers plenty of written resources. You can check a wide range of articles, FAQs, and similar types of resources. Like its competitor, NordVPN also offers a very active blog, which we strongly recommend checking out from time to time.
Who's the Winner? - It's a Tie!
Having access to reponsive customer support is crucial when it comes to VPNs. So, we're happy to report that both ExpressVPN and NordVPN deliver in that regard. Both of them offer 24/7 live chat support, which is the fastest way to get answers to any questions you might have.
If you get ExpressVPN, you'll also gain access to plenty of support resources, including in-depth installation guides, FAQs, and more. And if you get NordVPN, you'll also get plenty of resources but maybe fewer installation guides overall.
Pricing
ExpressVPN and NordVPN are considered two of the most expensive VPNs on the market by most people. However, having spent a lot of time with them, we can confidently say they're worth every penny. So, let's compare ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN in terms of their price and value.
ExpressVPN (Score - 9/10)
At the moment, the most affordable ExpressVPN plan is the one-year subscription ($99.95/year or $6.67/month). With their current offer, you also get three 3 months for free.
Also, ExpressVPN offers a no-questions-asked money-back policy. That means you have 30 days to test-drive the VPN service. If you change your mind, you can simply ask for a refund. That's also how you can take advantage of ExpressVPN's free trial. Also, we recommend checking our ExpressVPN free trial vs. paid subscription comparison.
For more information, turn to our guide that explains how much is ExpressVPN, helping you better understand the overall value this VPN brings.
NordVPN (Score - 9/10)
NordVPN also offers a one-year subscription, priced at $67.35 (it comes with 3 months free, just like ExpressVPN). However, that's the price for the first year only (you'll need to pay $99.48 later on).
If you want to go for the long term, then choose a 2-year plan, which also comes with 3 extra free months. After your first billing period, you'll be charged $99.48 per year). So, even though you can pay less by going with NordVPN, you'll pay the same as for ExpressVPN in the end.
Like ExpressVPN, they also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. And yes, it's a no-questions-asked policy, but they will try to troubleshoot the issues you're experiencing first.
Who's the Winner? - It's a Tie!
Your decision to get ExpressVPN means you'll need to pay a bit more, but you'll also get a much more optimized VPN, suitable for practically any use. This isn't the most affordable VPN out there, that's for sure, but we believe that ExpressVPN comes with a lot of value overall.
You can get NordVPN if you're looking for interesting occasional deals, which this VPN is known to provide from time to time. If you're willing to invest in a long-term plan, NordVPN is prepared to offer you a steep discount, which is a clear advantage.
NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN - Which One Is Better?
ExpressVPN and NordVPN are, in our opinion, the best of the best. You can’t go wrong with whichever choice you make, but there can be only one winner. And for us, the winner of this ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN comparison is - ExpressVPN.
To see why, let's compare the individual scores of ExpressVPN and NordVPN, based on their respective reviews published on our website. Check the following table for more information.
ExpressVPN has the looks of a champion and delivers the privacy and security that you’d want from a quality VPN service. It’s just as easy to use as NordVPN (newbie-friendly) but also offers deeper functionality for those who want a bit more control over their connection.
And even though NordVPN is more affordable, it doesn’t really offer the same level of service or functionality as ExpressVPN (especially if we take their backgrounds and reputation into consideration). So, go ahead and sign up for ExpressVPN today. You won’t regret it!
You've reached the end of our NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN comparison. In case of any questions or doubts, make sure to post your comment below. Thanks for reading!