📊 Our Test Results:
- 🎯 Servernetwerk: NordVPN 6,400+ servers vs ExpressVPN 3,000+ servers — NordVPN wins
- ⚡ Connection Speed: NordVPN 15% loss vs ExpressVPN 25% loss — NordVPN wins
- 🔒 Beveiligingsfuncties: NordVPN Double VPN + Meshnet vs ExpressVPN TrustedServer — NordVPN wins
- 📝 Toegang tot streaming: Both unblock Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ — Tie
- 💰 Starting Price: NordVPN $2.99/mo vs ExpressVPN $2.44/mo — ExpressVPN wint
Picking the right VPN feels overwhelming in 2026.
NordVPN and ExpressVPN are two of the biggest names in the VPN industry.
Both promise fast speeds, strong encryption, and access to streaming sites.
But which one is truly worth your money between NordVPN vs ExpressVPN?
I bought both VPN services and tested them side by side for four weeks.
I checked connection speeds, server networks, security tools, and streaming performance.
NordVPN came out on top in 7 of 10 categories.
But ExpressVPN has a lower starting price and some unique perks.
Keep reading to see exactly how they compare.
Overzicht
I tested NordVPN and ExpressVPN on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
I ran speed tests on servers across 15 countries.
I checked DNS leak protection on both VPN providers.
I also tested streaming access on Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+.
Here is what I found after weeks of hands-on testing.
Wat is NordVPN?
NordVPN is a virtual private network service based in Panama.
It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address from trackers.
NordVPN has over 6,400 servers spread across 111 countries.
It uses the NordLynx protocol (based on WireGuard) for fast connection speeds.
You also get features like Threat Protection Pro, Double VPN, and Meshnet.
NordVPN
NordVPN protects your online privacy with military-grade encryption and 6,400+ servers. It blocks ads, trackers, and malware with Threat Protection Pro. Panama-based with a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte.
NordVPN Pricing
NordVPN offers three plans in 2026. Here is what each one costs.
| Plan | Prijs | Het beste voor |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | $2.99/mo | VPN-only protection on a budget |
| Plus | $3.49/mo | VPN + wachtwoordbeheerder + data breach scanner |
| Compleet | $5,39/maand | Full suite with encrypted cloud storage |
Gratis proefperiode: No free trial, but there is a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
Geld-terug-garantie: Full refund within 30 days. No questions asked.
📌 Opmerking: The Plus plan adds a password manager and data breach scanner. The Complete plan includes 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage via NordLocker.
⚠️ Warning: NordVPN prices are for 2-year plans. Monthly billing costs $12.99/mo for Basic. Always check the renewal price before subscribing.
Key Benefits of NordVPN
Here is why NordVPN stands out from the crowd:
- Enorm servernetwerk: Over 6,400 servers in 111 countries. You can always find a fast, nearby server.
- Threat Protection Pro: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware even when the VPN is off. It also scans downloaded files for threats.
- Dubbele VPN: Routes your traffic through two servers for an extra layer of encryption. Great for high-security needs.
- NordLynx Speed: Built on WireGuard, NordLynx delivers some of the fastest VPN speeds available today.
- Meshnet: Lets you create a private network between your apparaten for secure file sharing and gaming.
- Panama Jurisdiction: Based outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances. Your data stays private from government surveillance.
- Monitor voor het donkere web: Scans the dark web for leaked credentials linked to your email address.
NordVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Largest server network among top VPN providers (6,400+ servers)
- Double VPN and Onion over VPN for maximum privacy
- Threat Protection Pro blocks ads, malware, and trackers
- Verified no-logs policy audited by Deloitte
- Meshnet for private networking and file sharing
❌ Cons
- No free trial (only 30-day money-back guarantee)
- Monthly billing is expensive at $12.99/mo
- Past server breach in 2018 (fully resolved since)
- Only 6 simultaneous device connections
Wat is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN service based in the British Virgin Islands.
It protects your online activity with AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy.
ExpressVPN runs over 3,000 servers in 105 countries.
Its Lightway protocol delivers fast and stable connections.
ExpressVPN also includes a free password manager called ExpressVPN Keys.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN keeps your browsing private with TrustedServer technology that wipes all data on every reboot. It has passed 18 independent audits. Based in the British Virgin Islands for maximum privacy.
ExpressVPN Pricing
ExpressVPN has three pricing tiers in 2026. Here is the breakdown.
| Plan | Prijs | Het beste voor |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | $2.44/mo | VPN-only protection at lowest cost |
| Geavanceerd | $3.14/mo | VPN + ad blocker + threat manager |
| Pro | $5.24/mo | Full suite with identity defender + data removal |
Gratis proefperiode: No free trial. A 30-day money-back guarantee covers all plans.
Geld-terug-garantie: Full refund within 30 days on every subscription.
📌 Opmerking: ExpressVPN Keys (password manager) comes free with every plan. The Pro plan adds identity protection and data removal tools.
⚠️ Warning: These prices require a 2-year commitment. Monthly billing costs $12.95/mo. The renewal rate may be higher than the initial offer.
Key Benefits of ExpressVPN
Here is what makes ExpressVPN a strong choice:
- TrustedServer Technology: Every server runs on RAM only. All data is wiped with every reboot. Nothing is stored on disk.
- 18 Independent Audits: More third-party audits than any major VPN provider. Your privacy claims are backed by proof.
- Lightway Protocol: Open-source and built for speed. It connects faster and uses less battery than older protocols.
- Streaming Champion: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video across multiple regions.
- Password Manager Included: ExpressVPN Keys comes free with every subscription. No extra cost.
- BVI Jurisdiction: Based in the British Virgin Islands with strong privacy laws and no data retention requirements.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- TrustedServer wipes all data on every reboot
- 18 independent security audits (industry-leading)
- Excellent streaming performance across all platforms
- Free password manager (ExpressVPN Keys) included
- Lower starting price than NordVPN at $2.44/mo
❌ Cons
- Smaller server network (3,000+ vs NordVPN’s 6,400+)
- No Double VPN or Meshnet features
- Average speed loss of 25% (higher than NordVPN)
- No built-in ad blocker on basic plan
Functievergelijking
Ready to see how NordVPN and ExpressVPN compare feature by feature?
We tested 10 key areas to help you pick the right VPN service.
| Functie | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Startprijs | $2.99/mo | $2.44/mo |
| Servers | 6,400+ in 111 countries | 3,000+ in 105 countries |
| VPN-protocol | NordLynx (WireGuard) | Lightway |
| Dubbele VPN | ✅ | ❌ |
| Ad/Malware Blocker | ✅ Threat Protection Pro | ✅ Threat Manager (Advanced+) |
| Wachtwoordbeheerder | ✅ (Plus plan) | ✅ (All plans) |
| Noodstop | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Onafhankelijke audits | Multiple (Deloitte, PwC) | 18 audits |
| Het beste voor | Security power users | Streaming and simplicity |
1. Servernetwerk
NordVPN: NordVPN runs over 6,400 servers in 111 countries. That is the largest network among premium VPN providers. More servers mean less crowding and faster speeds during peak hours.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN offers 3,000+ servers in 105 countries. The network covers fewer locations but still spans every major region. Server coverage is strong in Europe, North America, and Asia.
2. Connection Speed
NordVPN: NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol delivers fast speeds with about 15% average speed loss. It handles HD streaming and large downloads without buffering. The WireGuard base makes it one of the fastest VPNs available.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol averages about 25% speed loss. It is still fast enough for 4K streaming. But NordVPN has a noticeable edge in raw speed tests.
💡 Test Result: NordVPN was 10% faster on average across 15 server locations. The speed gap widens on distant servers like Australië and Japan.
3. Beveiliging en versleuteling
NordVPN: NordVPN uses AES-256-GCM encryption. It offers Double VPN that routes traffic through two servers. You also get Onion over VPN for accessing the Tor network. The no-logs policy is audited by Deloitte and PwC.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN also uses AES-256 encryption. TrustedServer technology runs everything on RAM. Every reboot wipes all data. ExpressVPN has completed 18 independent audits. That is more than any other major VPN provider.
4. Threat Protection
NordVPN: Threat Protection Pro blocks ads, trackers, and malware. It works even when you are not connected to a VPN server. It also scans downloaded files for threats before they reach your device.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager blocks trackers and malicious sites. It is available on the Advanced and Pro plans. The basic plan does not include ad blocking or tracker protection.
⚠️ Warning: ExpressVPN’s basic plan has no threat protection features. You need the Advanced plan ($3.14/mo) to get ad blocking and tracker protection.
5. Streaming Performance
NordVPN: NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. It works across multiple regions. NordVPN gives you access to streaming content in the US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, and Japan.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN excels at streaming. It unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. The MediaStreamer feature lets you stream on devices that do not support VPN apps like smart TVs and gaming consoles.
6. Privacy & Jurisdiction
NordVPN: NordVPN is based in Panama. Panama has no data retention laws. It is outside the 5 Eyes, 9 Eyes, and 14 Eyes surveillance alliances. The no-logs policy has been verified by multiple audits.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands. The BVI also has strong privacy protections and no mandatory data retention. ExpressVPN publishes a Transparency Report showing real-world data requests.
7. Split Tunneling
NordVPN: NordVPN’s split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN. You can route your browser through the VPN while keeping local apps on your regular connection. Available on Windows and Android.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN also offers split tunneling. You pick which apps go through the VPN tunnel. It works on Windows, macOS, and Android. This gives ExpressVPN a small edge with macOS support.
8. Kill Switch
NordVPN: NordVPN includes a kill switch on all desktop and mobile apps. If the VPN connection drops, it blocks all internet traffic. This prevents your real IP address from leaking.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN calls its kill switch “Network Lock.” It works the same way. If your VPN drops, all internet access stops. Network Lock is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, and routers.
9. Klantenservice
NordVPN: NordVPN offers 24/7 live chat and email support. The support team is handled in-house. They also have a large knowledge base. Some users report mixed experiences with response quality.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN provides 24/7 live chat and email support. The app is designed to be beginner-friendly. Most issues can be solved without contacting support. Response times are fast and helpful.
10. Pricing & Cost
Here is a side-by-side look at what each VPN costs.
| Plan | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Basic / Entry | $2.99/mo | $2.44/mo |
| Mid-Tier | $3.49/mo (Plus) | $3.14/mo (Advanced) |
| Topklasse | $5.39/mo (Complete) | $5.24/mo (Pro) |
| Monthly Billing | $12,99/maand | $12.95/mo |
| Geld-terug-garantie | 30 days | 30 days |
NordVPN: NordVPN costs $0.55 more per month at the entry level. But you get a bigger server network and more security features. The Plus plan adds a password manager for just $0.50 more.
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is cheaper at every tier. The Basic plan at $2.44/mo is the best deal for a VPN-only service. Every plan includes the free password manager. That adds value at the entry level.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | ExpressVPN | $0.55/mo cheaper at entry level |
| Biggest server network | NordVPN | 6,400+ servers in 111 countries |
| Best streaming access | ExpressVPN | MediaStreamer for smart TVs |
| Maximum security | NordVPN | Double VPN + Onion over VPN |
| Password manager included | ExpressVPN | Free on all plans |
| Ad and malware blocking | NordVPN | Threat Protection Pro on all plans |
| Beginnersvriendelijk | ExpressVPN | Simpler interface |
💰 Your Budget
ExpressVPN starts at $2.44/mo. That is the cheapest entry point. NordVPN’s $2.99/mo Basic plan offers more features for the extra cost.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Both VPN services work on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer adds smart TV and gaming console support. NordVPN’s Meshnet is great for home networking.
📝 Your Online Activity
If you stream a lot, ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer feature gives it an edge. If you download files and bladeren risky sites, NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro is more useful.
🎓 Your Experience Level
ExpressVPN has a simpler interface for beginners. NordVPN offers more advanced features for power users who want full control over their VPN connection.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Neither VPN offers a true free trial. Both have a 30-day money-back guarantee. NordVPN gives Android users a 7-day free trial through the Google Play Store.
🛟 Support Options
Both offer 24/7 live chat and email support. NordVPN handles support in-house. ExpressVPN is known for faster response times and a beginner-friendly help center.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPN services? Here is what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from NordVPN to ExpressVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Lower starting price at $2.44/mo vs $2.99/mo
- Free password manager (ExpressVPN Keys) on all plans
- MediaStreamer for smart TVs and gaming consoles
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Double VPN and Onion over VPN security features
- Threat Protection Pro ad and malware blocker
- Meshnet for private file sharing and gaming
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your NordVPN subscription (request refund if within 30 days)
- Sign up for ExpressVPN at fahimai.com/get/expressvpn
- Download the ExpressVPN app on all your devices and sign in
🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to NordVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Double VPN and Onion over VPN for extra security
- Threat Protection Pro that works even without VPN connection
- Meshnet for secure file sharing between devices
❌ What you’ll lose:
- TrustedServer RAM-only technology
- Free password manager on the basic plan
- MediaStreamer for non-VPN devices
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your ExpressVPN subscription (request refund if within 30 days)
- Sign up for NordVPN at fahimai.com/get/nordvpn
- Download the NordVPN app on all your devices and sign in
Eindconclusie
| Categorie | Winnaar |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | ExpressVPN |
| 🌐 Server Network | NordVPN |
| ⚡ Connection Speed | NordVPN |
| 🔒 Security Features | NordVPN |
| 🛡️ Threat Protection | NordVPN |
| 📺 Streaming | ExpressVPN |
| 🔍 Privacy Audits | ExpressVPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | ExpressVPN |
| 🔌 Extra Features | NordVPN |
| 🎮 Gaming & Meshnet | NordVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | NordVPN |
🏆 WINNER: NordVPN
NordVPN wins 6 out of 10 categories.
Best for: Security-focused users, power users, gamers, and anyone who wants the biggest server network with the most features.
NordVPN and ExpressVPN are both excellent VPN services.
NordVPN wins on server count, speed, security features, and extra tools like Meshnet.
ExpressVPN wins on pricing, streaming, ease of use, and independent audits.
If you want the most features and fastest speeds, NordVPN is the better pick.
If you want the cheapest entry price and the simplest experience, ExpressVPN is a strong choice.
Now go protect your online privacy!
More of NordVPN Compared
Here’s how NordVPN stacks up against other competitors:
NordVPN versus PureVPN
NordVPN wins on: Server network, speed, Threat Protection Pro
PureVPN wins on: Lower price, port forwarding
NordVPN versus Surfshark
NordVPN wins on: Server count, Double VPN, speed
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, lower price
NordVPN versus ProtonVPN
NordVPN wins on: Speed, server count, streaming
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, open-source apps
NordVPN versus PrivadoVPN
NordVPN wins on: Features, server network, speed
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan with 10GB/month
NordVPN versus AdGuard VPN
NordVPN wins on: Server count, security features, speed
AdGuard VPN wins on: Built-in ad blocker, lower price
NordVPN versus Virtueel schild
NordVPN wins on: Speed, server network, reputation
Virtual Shield wins on: Bundled antivirus, identity monitoring
NordVPN versus StrongVPN
NordVPN wins on: Features, server count, Meshnet
StrongVPN wins on: Simple pricing, no upsells
NordVPN versus SnelsteVPN
NordVPN wins on: Speed, security, server network
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan option, lowest price
NordVPN versus AuraVPN
NordVPN wins on: VPN performance, server network, speed
AuraVPN wins on: Identity theft insurance, credit monitoring
NordVPN versus CyberGhost
NordVPN wins on: Speed, security features, audits
CyberGhost wins on: Dedicated streaming servers, lower price
NordVPN versus McAfee VPN
NordVPN wins on: VPN speed, server network, privacy
McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled antivirus, scam detector
NordVPN versus Privé internettoegang
NordVPN wins on: Speed, Double VPN, Threat Protection
PIA wins on: Open-source apps, lower price
NordVPN versus Mysterium
NordVPN wins on: Speed, reliability, server network
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, residential IPs
NordVPN vs SafeShell VPN
NordVPN wins on: Reputation, features, server count
SafeShell VPN wins on: Niche use cases
NordVPN wins on: Speed, server network, brand trust
Oyster VPN wins on: Budget pricing
More of ExpressVPN Compared
Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against other competitors:
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, TrustedServer, audits
PureVPN wins on: Lower price, port forwarding
ExpressVPN vs Surfshark
ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming, TrustedServer, audits
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, lower price
ExpressVPN versus ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming, ease of use, server locations
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, open-source
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, server count, streaming
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free 10GB/month plan
ExpressVPN wins on: Server network, streaming, audits
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking, lower price
ExpressVPN versus Virtual Shield
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, reputation, privacy
Virtual Shield wins on: Bundled antivirus, identity monitoring
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, server count, features
StrongVPN wins on: Simpler pricing structure
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, TrustedServer, streaming
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan, lowest price
ExpressVPN wins on: VPN speed, server network, privacy
AuraVPN wins on: Identity theft coverage, credit monitoring
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, audits, TrustedServer
CyberGhost wins on: Dedicated streaming servers, price
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, privacy, server network
McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled antivirus, scam detection
ExpressVPN versus privé-internettoegang
ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming, TrustedServer, ease of use
PIA wins on: Open-source apps, lower price
ExpressVPN vs Mysterium
ExpressVPN wins on: Reliability, streaming, server count
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, residential IPs
ExpressVPN vs SafeShell VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Reputation, speed, features
SafeShell VPN wins on: Niche use cases
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, server count, brand trust
Oyster VPN wins on: Budget pricing
Veelgestelde vragen
Welke is beter, NordVPN of ExpressVPN?
NordVPN is the better choice for most users. It has more servers, faster speeds, and extra security features like Double VPN and Meshnet. ExpressVPN is better if you want a lower price and simpler interface.
Is NordVPN actually any good?
Yes. NordVPN is one of the top-rated VPN services in 2026. It has 6,400+ servers, fast NordLynx speeds, and a no-logs policy verified by Deloitte. It excels at streaming, security, and privacy.
Is ExpressVPN still trustworthy?
Yes. ExpressVPN has completed 18 independent security audits. It uses TrustedServer technology that wipes all data on every reboot. It is based in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands.
What is cheaper, ExpressVPN or NordVPN?
ExpressVPN is cheaper. Its Basic plan starts at $2.44/mo compared to NordVPN’s $2.99/mo. ExpressVPN is cheaper at every pricing tier. Both require a 2-year commitment for these prices.
Can I be tracked if I use NordVPN?
NordVPN encrypts your traffic and hides your IP address. Its strict no-logs policy means no browsing data is stored. While no VPN is 100% perfect, NordVPN makes tracking extremely difficult.
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