Choosing the right VPN can feel like picking between apples and oranges.
They’re both fruit, right? But one might be better for baking a pie, while the other is perfect for a snack.
NordVPN vs ExpressVPN are top VPN contenders, but which is best for privacy?
We’ll explain the key features, security measures, and logging policies to help you decide which VPN best suits your needs.
By the end of this post, you will be able to confidently choose the best VPN to keep your online activity safe and secure.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, we’ve spent weeks testing both NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
We’ve evaluated their speeds, security features, streaming capabilities, and overall performance to help you make an informed decision.
NordVPN has over 5,700 servers in 60 countries and boasts an average download speed of 360 Mbps!
Pricing: 30-day money-back guarantee. Plan Starts at $3.39/month
Key Features:
- Military-grade encryption
- Threat Protection
- Dark Web Monitor
Enjoy blazing-fast speeds, top-notch security, and access to your favorite content.
Pricing: 30-day money-back guarantee. Plan starts at $4.99/month
Key Features:
- Split Tunneling
- Lightway Protocol
- TrustedServer Technology
What is NordVPN?
Ever heard of NordVPN? It’s one of the biggest names out there.
They’ve been around for a while, and they’re known for having a vast network of servers.
We’re talking over 5,700 servers in 60 countries!
That means you have tons of options for getting around those pesky geo-blocks.
Plus, they’ve got some pretty solid security features to keep you safe online.
Also, explore our favorite NordVPN alternatives…
Our Take
NordVPN gets a 9/10 because it offers a fantastic combination of security, features, and ease of use. The massive server network and strong security features make it an excellent choice for most users
Key Benefits
- Massive server network: Boasts over 5,500 servers in 60 countries.
- Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption and a variety of security protocols.
- Specialty servers: Offers dedicated servers for streaming, torrenting, and extra security.
- Strict no-logs policy: They don’t track your online activity.
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Plenty of time to try it risk-free.
Pricing
- Basic: $3.39/month – 1GB of free eSim Data, Secure, high-speed VPN.
- Plus: $4.39/month – 5GB of free eSim Data, Secure, high-speed VPN.
- Complete: $5.39/month – 10GB of free eSim Data, Secure, high-speed VPN.
Pros
Cons
What is ExpressVPN?
Now, let’s talk about ExpressVPN. This one’s a real speed demon!
They’re known for having super-fast connections, perfect for streaming or downloading large files.
They also have servers in 94 countries, so you have many options for finding a server that meets your needs.
And don’t even get me started on their security features. They’re top-notch!
Also, explore our favorite ExpressVPN alternatives…
Our Take
ExpressVPN is popular because it’s fast, reliable, and secure. It’s a great all-around VPN, but it’s a little expensive compared to some others.
Key Benefits
- Blazing-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming and downloading.
- Huge server network: Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries.
- Strong security: Uses AES-256 encryption and has a kill switch.
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Try it risk-free.
Pricing
- 2 Year + 3 Months Free: $4.99/month
- 12 Month + 3 Months Free: $6.67/month.
- 1 Month: $12.95/month.
Pros
Cons
Feature Comparison
Let’s dive deeper and compare NordVPN and ExpressVPN head-to-head across nine key features.
This detailed breakdown will help you see how these vpn services stack up against each other in 2024.
1. Security & VPN Protocol
When it comes to keeping your online activities private, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer robust security.
- NordVPN review shows it uses AES-256 encryption, a standard for top-tier security. It also features its own vpn protocol, NordLynx, built around WireGuard for speed and security. NordVPN also includes a kill switch to prevent data leaks if your connection drops.
- ExpressVPN review highlights its use of AES-256 encryption. Its proprietary vpn protocol, Lightway, is designed for speed and reliability, and it also includes a reliable kill switch.
2. Speed
Speed is crucial for a smooth online experience, especially for streaming and gaming.
- ExpressVPN offers consistently fast speeds across its vpn server network. Our speed tests often show it performing exceptionally well on both nearby and distant servers.
- NordVPN works with good speeds, but they can sometimes be more variable depending on the specific NordVPN server you connect to. However, its NordLynx vpn protocol helps maintain competitive speeds.
3. Server Network
The size and distribution of vpn servers impact your ability to access content globally.
- NordVPN provides a massive network of over 5,700 NordVPN servers in 60 countries. This gives you many options for changing your IP address.
- ExpressVPN also boasts a wide reach, with servers in 105 countries, though the total server count is lower than NordVPN’s. This broader country coverage can be beneficial for accessing diverse content.
4. Privacy & Logging Policy
A strict no-logs policy is essential for true privacy.
- Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer audited no-logs policies, meaning they don’t track your online activity, IP addresses, or DNS queries.
- ExpressVPN vs other providers often highlights its TrustedServer technology, which ensures all servers run on RAM and wipe data with every reboot, adding an extra layer of privacy.
5. Advanced Features
Beyond basic VPN functionality, these services offer unique tools.
- NordVPN offers a double vpn feature, routing your traffic through two vpn servers for enhanced encryption. It also has Onion Over VPN for added anonymity via the Tor network, and a Dark Web Monitor.
- ExpressVPN also includes split tunneling, allowing you to choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t. It focuses on streamlined functionality without as many niche features as NordVPN.
6. Device Compatibility & VPN App
It’s important that your vpn service works across all your devices.
- NordVPN provides dedicated vpn apps for most major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Installing NordVPN is straightforward on all devices. It also has browser extensions.
- ExpressVPN also offers user-friendly apps for a wide range of devices and platforms. Its browser extensions are highly rated for ease of use. While ExpressVPN vs NordVPN might have fewer unlimited simultaneous connections, its apps are very polished.
7. Pricing & Value
Cost is always a factor when choosing a vpn service.
- NordVPN subscription plans are generally cheaper than ExpressVPN, especially on longer-term commitments. NordVPN also offers tiered plans that include features like encrypted cloud storage and a password manager.
- ExpressVPN offers premium pricing, but many users find its consistent performance and reliability worth the cost. It tends to have fewer long-term discount options compared to NordVPN.
8. Streaming & Unblocking
Accessing geo-restricted content is a primary reason many use a vpn.
- ExpressVPN offers excellent unblocking capabilities for streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. Its consistent speeds make for a smooth streaming experience.
- NordVPN works well with many streaming services, though sometimes it may require trying a few different NordVPN servers to find an optimal connection for specific platforms.
9. Customer Support
Reliable support is crucial when you encounter issues.
- Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer 24/7 live chat support, email support, and extensive knowledge bases.
- ExpressVPN also provides video tutorials and setup guides, which are very helpful.
What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?
- No-logs policy: Ensure the VPN provider doesn’t track your online activity.
- Strong encryption: Look for AES-256 encryption, the industry standard.
- Kill switch: This feature prevents your data from being exposed if the VPN connection drops.
- Server locations: Choose a VPN with servers in the locations you need.
- Device compatibility: Make sure the VPN works on all your devices.
- Customer support: Good customer support can be helpful if you encounter any issues.
- A free trial or money-back guarantee allows you to test the VPN before committing to a long-term subscription.
- Independent security audits: Some VPN providers undergo third-party audits to verify their security claims.
- Speed and performance: Consider your streaming, gaming, or downloading needs.
- Special features: Some VPNs offer extra features like split tunneling, ad blocking, or obfuscated servers.
- Price: Compare pricing and features to find the best value for your needs.
- Reputation and user reviews: See what other users say about the VPN provider.
Final Verdict
So, which VPN wins the showdown? It was a close call, but we chose ExpressVPN as the best overall VPN.
Why? ExpressVPN offers blazing-fast speeds and rock-solid security.
It’s super easy to use ExpressVPN, even if you’ve never used a VPN.
ExpressVPN offers top-notch security features like a kill switch and a strict no-logs policy.
NordVPN provides a more extensive server network and is cheaper than ExpressVPN, but it can’t match ExpressVPN’s speed or reliability.
Both VPNs offer many VPN protocols, but ExpressVPN has its super-fast Lightway protocol.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs.
If you need the fastest speeds and best security, go with ExpressVPN.
If you’re on a budget or need a huge server network, NordVPN is still a great option. We’ve tested both extensively so that you can trust our recommendation!
More of NordVPN
We’ve looked at NordVPN alternatives, so how does NordVPN stack up directly against them?
Here’s a quick comparison:
- NordVPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN can be more affordable, but NordVPN is generally seen as more reliable with a larger server network and better streaming capabilities.
- NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: Both are top-tier, but NordVPN often comes out slightly ahead with more features and sometimes better speeds for the price.
- NordVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark allows unlimited connections and is often cheaper for long-term plans, while NordVPN boasts a larger server count and sometimes faster speeds.
- NordVPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN focuses strongly on privacy and even offers a free plan, but NordVPN tends to have more features, better speeds, and wider server availability.
- NordVPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN is a newer option that’s often budget-friendly, but NordVPN has a more established reputation, larger server network, and more advanced features.
- NordVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN integrates with an ad blocker, which is unique. NordVPN is a more comprehensive VPN with a wider range of servers and features.
- NordVPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield aims for simplicity. NordVPN offers more advanced features and customization options.
- NordVPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is known for strong encryption. NordVPN offers a larger server network and a broader feature set.
- NordVPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN is budget-friendly. NordVPN is generally faster and has more features.
- NordVPN vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN includes identity theft protection. NordVPN focuses on VPN features and often has better performance.
- NordVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost is user-friendly with specialized servers. NordVPN often has better speeds and more advanced features.
- NordVPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee VPN is bundled with security software. NordVPN is a dedicated VPN service with more extensive features and better performance.
- NordVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA is known for privacy and customization. NordVPN often has a more user-friendly interface and better streaming capabilities.
- NordVPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is a decentralized VPN. NordVPN uses a traditional server network known for its speed and reliability.
More of ExpressVPN
Here’s a quick look at how ExpressVPN stacks up against alternatives:
- ExpressVPN vs PureVPN: ExpressVPN: faster, more reliable for streaming, better privacy.
- ExpressVPN vs NordVPN: Both are top-tier, but NordVPN often comes out slightly ahead with more features and sometimes better speeds for the price.
- ExpressVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark: unlimited connections, cheaper long-term. ExpressVPN: faster, more server locations.
- ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: ExpressVPN: faster, better for streaming. ProtonVPN: strong privacy, free option.
- ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN: ExpressVPN offers better performance, is easier to use, and has more servers. PrivadoVPN is budget-friendly and privacy-focused.
- ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN: ExpressVPN is: comprehensive VPN. AdGuard VPN: unique ad-blocking integration.
- ExpressVPN vs Virtual Shield: ExpressVPN: more features, better performance.
- ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN: Both have strong encryption. ExpressVPN: larger network, broader compatibility.
- ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN: ExpressVPN: faster, more servers. FastestVPN: budget-friendly.
- ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN: ExpressVPN focuses on VPN. AuraVPN includes identity theft protection.
- ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost: ExpressVPN: faster, more consistent for streaming. CyberGhost: user-friendly, specialized servers.
- ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN: ExpressVPN is: dedicated VPN with more features, better performance.
- ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access: ExpressVPN: user-friendly, better for streaming. PIA: customizable privacy settings.
- ExpressVPN vs Mysterium: ExpressVPN: traditional, reliable servers. Mysterium: decentralized network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, ExpressVPN or NordVPN?
Both are excellent vpn services. ExpressVPN is generally faster and has a more polished app, making it incredibly user-friendly. In contrast, the NordVPN app also provides a great user experience and NordVPN is more affordable. It also offers a more extensive server network, which some users prefer for wider private internet access options.
Do NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer a free trial?
ExpressVPN doesn’t offer a free trial but has a 30-day money-back guarantee. NordVPN used to provide a free trial, but it was discontinued. However, it also has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
Can I use ExpressVPN or NordVPN to torrent?
Yes, both ExpressVPN and NordVPN allow torrenting on their networks. They also offer features that enhance privacy while torrenting, such as P2P-optimized servers.
Does NordVPN work with Netflix?
Yes, NordVPN works with Netflix. However, you might need to try several servers to find one that works reliably. ExpressVPN also works with Netflix and is generally more consistent at unblocking different Netflix libraries.
What other features do ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer?
Both VPNs offer various advanced features. ExpressVPN offers split tunneling, which allows you to route some of your traffic through the VPN while other traffic goes through your regular internet connection.1 NordVPN provides a feature, Meshnet, which allows you to create your own secure private network.
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