NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: Is NordVPN or ExpressVPN better?
Virtual private networks (VPNs) provide virtual tunnels that shield you from government monitoring and data tracking by internet service providers (ISPs) and websites. While hundreds of VPN services exist, only a few offer these key features. Among them is NordVPN, our number one operator, which competes closely with ExpressVPN.
Since the type of VPN you choose determines how safe you are on the internet, it's vital to choose one with multiple encryption protocols, a huge server network, responsive customer support, and fair pricing. For years, there have been heated debates revolving around “NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: which is better?” This guide uncovers the features included with both VPNs, allowing you to decide which service suits your budget and internet-surfing activities.
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Pricing and plans: Is NordVPN or ExpressVPN cheaper?
In terms of pricing, which is better: ExpressVPN or NordVPN? The table below provides some context:
| Metric | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| ✅Subscription Plans✅ | - Monthly: Basic ($12.99), Plus ($13.99), Complete ($14.99), and Prime ($17.99): 1-Year: Basic ($4.99 per month), Plus ($5.99 per month), Complete ($6.99 per month), and Prime ($8.99 per month); 2-Year: Basic ($3.99 per month), Plus ($4.39 per month), Complete ($5.39 per month), Prime ($7.39 per month) | - Monthly: $12.95; 1-Year (+ 3 Months Free): $6.67 per month; 2-Year (+ 4 Months Free): $4.99 per month) |
Company backgrounds
This section of this guide examines the roots of NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
NordVPN
NordVPN was founded in 2012 by childhood friends. It’s based in Panama and owned by Nord Security. NordVPN started with a prototype server shared among its founding team. Today, it's a top-tier VPN provider praised by IT specialists and users alike.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN was launched in 2009 in the British Virgin Islands. It’s now owned by Kape Technologies and operated by Express VPN International Ltd.
ExpressVPN aims to give users full control over their internet experience. It supports this goal with tools like a password manager, an ad blocker, and a tracker blocker. User data is secured with AES-256, a standard trusted by security experts worldwide.
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Security features: Which is better, ExpressVPN or NordVPN?
Our NordVPN vs ExpressVPN guide won't be complete without shedding light on the security add-ons available on both services:
| Feature | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption Protocols | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec | AES-256, Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| No Logs Policy | Yes | Yes |
| Additional Security Features | Double VPN, Threat Protection Pro | TrustedServer Technology, And Split Tunnelling |
Server network
A large server network lets users connect from many countries. This feature helps you access geo-restricted content. Here's an overview of the server network strength of NordVPN and ExpressVPN:
| Feature | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Server Count and Locations | 7,700+ servers in 118 countries | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries |
| Specialized Servers | P2P, Double, Dedicated, Onion Over, and Obfuscated servers | Doesn't have specialized servers. However, available servers are optimized for different purposes. |
Speed and performance
In the NordVPN vs ExpressVPN debate, speed and performance are key deciding factors. It's vital to check how each service handles these metrics. When they're both optimal, your browsing experience will be fluid across the board. Let's see how NordVPN and ExpressVPN fare in these areas:
| Metric | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Speeds | The download and upload speeds in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan are higher than average. However, these speeds might be lower when connected to other regions. | Consistently fast across servers tied to major countries. However, tests reveal that servers in lesser-known jurisdictions result in slightly lower upload and download speeds. |
| Latency and Bandwidth | NordVPN has unlimited bandwidth, so users can stream high-definition videos without hassle and experience low latency when playing games online. | ExpressVPN offers unlimited internet bandwidth and helps prevent ISP throttling. This makes it a great fit for video streaming and virtual gaming. |
| Performance Consistency | Stable during regular and peak periods. | Reliable to use, even in periods of high traffic. |
Streaming and torrenting: is Nord or ExpressVPN better?
NordVPN and ExpressVPN mask your internet trail. As such, you can stream and torrent geo-restricted content in real-time.
Let’s break down NordVPN vs ExpressVPN based on how well they handle streaming and torrenting:
Streaming service access
NordVPN and ExpressVPN are compatible with major streaming platforms, including Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Crunchyroll.
Torrenting support
NordVPN has P2P servers specifically designed for torrenting. These servers let you download torrents quickly and anonymously.
ExpressVPN doesn't use dedicated torrent servers. Instead, its entire network supports torrenting. Therefore, you can connect to any ExpressVPN server network and download torrents without facing restrictions.
User experience
When comparing NordVPN vs ExpressVPN in terms of user experience, you’ll find that NordVPN has a somewhat cluttered interface. But that’s only because it provides an array of features and needs to fit them all in. Users will appreciate the fact that they can connect to different servers right from the homepage. NordVPN also stands out for giving users the ability to pause their VPN connection for a specified period. This add-on is great, especially if you want to disconnect from NordVPN for a moment without forgetting to reestablish the connection.
ExpressVPN is easier to use than NordVPN. Its layout looks the same on desktop and mobile, and the homepage has a one-click connection button. In addition to the home area, there's an Add-ons section hosting the service’s other functions.
NordVPN and ExpressVPN have applications compatible with Android, iOS, MacOS, Windows, Android TV, Apple TV, and Fire TV. Both services also have a GUI application for Linux devices.
Both VPN services offer simultaneous connections. While NordVPN allows you to connect six devices at once, ExpressVPN allows eight simultaneous connections, and that will probably be enough for most users.
Customer support
NordVPN offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email. The live chat delivers quicker replies, usually within five minutes. If you make a query via email, expect a reply after several hours. Besides these support options, it also has a detailed Help Center and FAQ section covering common issues and use cases.
ExpressVPN has a similar M.O. as NordVPN when it comes to support. It too offers round-the-clock assistance via chat and email. ExpressVPN also has a detailed Help Center that addresses common questions and issues tied to the VPN service.
Privacy and jurisdiction
NordVPN and ExpressVPN aren't headquartered in a country that's part of the Fourteen Eyes Alliance. For context, the Fourteen Eyes Alliance is a data-sharing agreement between these 14 countries: Canada, New Zealand, the US, the UK, Australia, France, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Sweden, and Spain.
Instead, NordVPN is based in Panama, a jurisdiction without compulsory data retention laws. It also offers privacy protection laws that reinforce anonymity. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN has its headquarters in the British Virgin Islands. Like Panama, this island has strong data protection laws covering citizens and businesses.
Both VPN services have passed independent audits that verify their no-logs policy and security standards. They also have auditing certificates from reputable firms such as Cure53 and PwC.
Additional features
Here’s a table showing the extra features available on NordVPN and ExpressVPN:
| NordVPN’s Extra Features | ExpressVPN’s Extra Features |
|---|---|
| NordLynx: NordVPN’s innovative technology is built with the WireGuard VPN protocol. It prompts quicker connections to NordVPN servers and improves browsing speeds without compromising on security and privacy; Dedicated IP: This function gives you all the advantages of a VPN without having to change IP addresses regularly. With a dedicated IP, you can avoid blocklists, identity checks, and CAPTCHAs whenever you surf the internet; Double VPN: This advanced VPN security feature routes your internet traffic through two VPN servers rather than one, encrypting your data twice; Threat Protection Pro: This is a cybersecurity feature that makes your browsing activities safer while protecting you from potential cyber threats. | MediaStreamer DNS: This add-on allows ExpressVPN users to gain access to geo-restricted content by bypassing DNS servers known for blocking and slowing down connections; Lightway Protocol: Lightway is ExpressVPN’s proprietary VPN protocol built to make your VPN experience smoother, speedier, and safer; Browser Extensions: Let you spoof your location and automatically use HTTPS versions of websites. They also let you control the ExpressVPN app via browsers such as Brave, Vivaldi, Firefox, and Chrome; TrustedServer Technology: This state-of-the-art server delivers better security to users. It runs only on RAM, meaning that data retained on the server is wiped once rebooted; Split Tunnelling: Allows users to decide what apps they want and don't want connected to the VPN. |
Pros and cons: is NordVPN or ExpressVPN better?
It’s worth taking a moment to highlight the strengths of each VPN, as well as a few areas for improvement.
NordVPN pros and cons
Pros:
- An array of security features
- Over 7,700 servers in 118 countries
- Budget-friendly pricing plans
Cons:
- Occasional slow browsing speeds on several servers
- The app interface isn't beginner-friendly
ExpressVPN pros and cons
Pros
- Great speed and performance across most servers
- Self-explanatory user interface
- Compatible with multiple devices
Cons
- Slightly more expensive plans
- Fewer advanced features
Conclusion – Which VPN should you choose – NordVPN or ExpressVPN?
NordVPN and ExpressVPN place among the best VPN services in the world. If advanced security add-ons like Double VPN and Threat Protection Pro appeal to you, NordVPN might be the right fit. It also offers cheaper pricing plans and a more extensive network of servers.
On the other hand, if you're looking for an intuitive VPN experience where high speeds are the norm, consider what ExpressVPN has to offer. The service's RAM-based TrustedServer Technology and Lightway Protocol ensure privacy and high performance, making it an ideal alternative for gaming, streaming, and torrent downloads.
So, is NordVPN or ExpressVPN better? That choice is up to you. Besides, both VPN services offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. That way, you can test out both and see which one better suits your daily needs. Regardless of which service you choose, you can enjoy an internet-surfing adventure where safety and anonymity reign supreme.
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FAQs
Is NordVPN or ExpressVPN better for streaming?
Both services are great for streaming. However, ExpressVPN is slightly better at bypassing global streaming platform restrictions.
Which VPN is faster?
ExpressVPN, aided by Lightway Protocol, delivers high-speed connections most of the time.
Do they work in restrictive countries like China?
Yes, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN have obfuscation servers that hide the fact that you're using a VPN to route your internet traffic. That way, users in restricted areas can connect to a VPN server seamlessly.
Can I use these VPNs for gaming?
Yes, you can. Both services offer unlimited bandwidth, meaning that you can enjoy low latency while playing online games.
How do their customer support services compare?
NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer 24/7 customer support via chat and email. Chat replies are quicker, usually within five minutes. If you use email, you'll wait several hours for a response.