Differences between NordVPN and ExpressVPN: Which VPN Should Be Your Choice?

When it comes to contemporary VPN providers, NordVPN and ExpressVPN both occupy the pinnacle position. They are renowned for their rapid speeds, extensive server arrays, and a robust standing for excellence. Nevertheless, there exist notable distinctions between the two.

NordVPN offers remarkable security and privacy-centric aspects, including its Meshnet encrypted file-sharing system and Threat Protection against malicious software and advertisements. On the other hand, ExpressVPN boasts a sleek, user-friendly interface and an impressive collection of third-party security evaluations.

This write-up aims to determine which VPN best suits your needs and those of your enterprise.

• NordVPN: Most suitable for the majority of users seeking an extensive server network and an assorted range of supplementary security features.
• ExpressVPN: Ideal for users prioritizing an intuitive interface and swift VPN upload and download rates.

NordVPN or ExpressVPN: Comprehensive Comparison Table

NordVPN and ExpressVPN: Costing

Price Breakdown for NordVPN

NordVPN’s premium schemes feature three subscription levels: NordVPN Basic, Plus, and Ultimate. It’s worth noting that in certain regions, NordVPN Ultimate may also be labeled as NordVPN Complete or Ultra. Hence, the premier scheme could differ depending on your location.

The ensuing overview outlines the pricing structure and variance in features across each tier:

Among NordVPN’s plans, I find the Plus subscription for one year to offer the most value. It strikes a good balance between a reasonable monthly charge and an ample array of NordVPN’s supplementary security functionalities. These include the Threat Protection tool guarding against malware and ads, as well as the data breach scanner.

SEE: The Top 7 NordVPN Alternatives for 2024 (TechRepublic)

I also commend NordVPN for incorporating Nord Security’s specialized password manager, NordPass, into its Plus subscription tier. Essentially, this addition is an extra service in addition to the primary VPN — all under a single subscription. To me, this represents a significant value-add, especially for users seeking a password manager as well.

While NordVPN does not offer a free version at present, it does provide a seven-day trial through Android. After completing the signup processDuring the experimentation, you’ll have the opportunity to test NordVPN on your desktop machine. While I commend Nord for providing a trial period, I wish they would extend this offer to iOS users as well. This move would enable more individuals to give NordVPN a try and assess its performance.

Fortunately, NordVPN features a 30-day money-back guarantee for all its premium subscriptions. This allows you to subscribe to a plan initially and apply for a refund if you find it unsuitable for your needs. Just remember to request the refund within the specified timeframe.

For additional information, you can delve into our comprehensive NordVPN review.

### Pricing Structure of ExpressVPN

In comparison to NordVPN, ExpressVPN offers a more simplified pricing model that is based solely on the duration of the subscription.

– **1 month:** $12.95 per month.
– **6 months:** $9.99 per month.
– **1 year:** $6.67 per month.

As a consumer, I appreciate this straightforward approach as it streamlines the entire purchasing process. However, it is worth noting that this simplicity means ExpressVPN comes with fewer bundled features compared to NordVPN – a point we will explore further in subsequent discussions.

**SEE:** [CyberGhost vs ExpressVPN (2024): Which VPN Is Better? (TechRepublic)](https://www.techrepublic.com/article/cyberghost-vs-expressvpn/)

Interestingly, ExpressVPN also includes its proprietary password manager, ExpressVPN Keys, with all its premium plans. Although I find NordPass to be a more robust password management tool, I am pleased that ExpressVPN includes this feature in all their paid subscriptions.

Similar to NordVPN, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all paid subscription options. Additionally, ExpressVPN provides a 7-day free trial, specifically for users of their mobile applications on Android and iOS platforms.

For further insights, you can refer to our detailed ExpressVPN review.

## Feature Comparison: NordVPN vs ExpressVPN

### Security Measures and Data Encryption

**Winner: Stalemate**

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN deliver top-notch encryption techniques and reliable VPN protocols. These services adhere to the industry standard AES-256 encryption algorithm, which is widely esteemed as one of the most secure algorithms available today.

**SEE:** [NordVPN vs Proton VPN (2024): Which VPN Should You Choose? (TechRepublic)](https://www.techrepublic.com/article/proton-vpn-vs-nordvpn/)

When it comes to VPN protocols, NordVPN offers OpenVPN alongside its proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is built on the high-speed WireGuard technology. In contrast, ExpressVPN provides the OpenVPN protocol in addition to their own Lightway protocol, designed for enhanced speed.

I appreciate that both NordVPN and ExpressVPN allow users to choose between security-focused protocols or ones geared towards speed optimization. For instance, OpenVPN is renowned for its security benefits as an open-source protocol, while WireGuard excels in performance and modernity.

By offering this flexibility, users can balance their priorities between security and speed, making NordVPN and ExpressVPN excel in terms of security protocols and encryption.

### VPN Server Coverage and Geographical Locations

**Winner: NordVPN**

Upon analyzing their respective VPN server networks, NordVPN emerges as the favorable choice. As of September 2024, NordVPN boasts a total of 6,200+ servers spanning across 111 countries. In comparison, ExpressVPN maintains servers in 105 countries. Even though ExpressVPN does not disclose the exact number of servers, estimates suggest they operate around 3,000+ servers.

The crucial factor to consider here is the number of countries where servers are located. With servers in 111 countries, NordVPN surpasses ExpressVPN by offering a slightly wider selection of IP locations. This diverse range of choices will be particularly beneficial for individuals aiming to bypass region-locked online content using VPN services.

[Image: NordVPN’s server list. Image: Luis Millares]

ExpressVPN’s extensive selection of servers across 105 countries offers a diverse array of options. NordVPN, however, edges ahead of ExpressVPN with its larger server fleet and broader range of countries.

VIEW: Does Using a VPN Impact Internet Speed? (TechRepublic)

If you’re considering unblocking specific locations, I suggest visiting the official server pages of both NordVPN and ExpressVPN to confirm the availability you require. Fortunately, both providers consistently update their VPN server locations on offer.

Validation from external audits and historical performance

Champion: ExpressVPN

For a VPN service with a strong track record of third-party audits, ExpressVPN stands out as a top recommendation. Since 2018, ExpressVPN has undergone a total of 18 independent security assessments, a remarkable achievement considering that many other VPN services lack this level of independent scrutiny. These assessments cover various aspects of ExpressVPN’s services, from its commitment to logging no data to the quality of its desktop applications. The most recent audit was released in June 2024 and focused on the ExpressVPN browser extension.

Given the sensitivity of the information handled by VPNs, such as browsing data and online activities, third-party audits are crucial. They offer users more than just promises or claims from a company. ExpressVPN impresses me with its consistent dedication to third-party evaluations.

VIEW: Are SSLVPN Services like NordVPN Safe to Use? (TechRepublic Forums)

On the other hand, NordVPN has undergone four independent audits of its no-logging policy since 2018. The most recent audit was conducted by Deloitte Audit Lithuania in late 2023, focusing again on their no-logs policy.

Interestingly, the most recent audit outcomes can solely be accessed by active NordVPN users and not by the general public. Nord states that this “guarantees the audit outcomes are not misinterpreted or taken out of context.” While I comprehend NordVPN’s perspective, I believe a more user-friendly approach would be to publicly disclose audit results — regardless of the conclusions.

Nevertheless, I find that both VPNs are commendably subjecting their applications to independent testing. It just turns out that ExpressVPN emerges as the unequivocal victor in this aspect, particularly with its extensive array of audits conducted so far.

Notable characteristics

Victor: NordVPN

If users desire a plethora of additional functions, I recommend opting for NordVPN. It offers numerous security-oriented capabilities that deliver significant value alongside the primary VPN service.

Among these, my preferred feature was NordVPN’s Meshnet private network system. This system facilitates file sharing or remote device access through an encrypted connection, a feature I anticipate will be beneficial when exchanging sensitive files or documents.

It also boasts its Threat Protection Pro web and document security attribute that shields against intrusive advertisements, malware, and trackers. This feature maintains a real-time record of all threats blocked by NordVPN. Apart from these, NordVPN incorporates a dark web monitoring system, dual VPN servers, Onion Over VPN functionality, and concealed servers, among other attributes.

This is not to imply that ExpressVPN lacks its own standout characteristics. It incorporates what it terms Advanced Protection, safeguarding against trackers, advertisements, and malicious websites. Additionally, they provide Parental controls, through which ExpressVPN automatically prevents access to adult websites while connected to their servers.

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN provide password managers through their subscriptions – NordPass and ExpressVPN Keys respectively. It’s worth noting, however, that NordPass is only included with NordVPN Plus and higher tiers, whereas Keys comes with all ExpressVPN plans.

Check out: Top VPNs for streaming, gaming, torrenting (TechRepublic Forums)

Overall, I favor NordVPN for offering slightly more supplementary features compared to ExpressVPN. Personally, I find Nord’s additional features focused on security and privacy quite appealing. This emphasis on security elevates their service as a comprehensive security solution rather than just a standard VPN.

Performance and Velocity

Champion: ExpressVPN

In terms of performance, ExpressVPN wins by a narrow margin. Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN delivered fast and reliable VPN speeds during testing. Websites loaded swiftly, and there were no noticeable connection drops with either provider.

Throughout the testing phase, I connected my work laptop to one of their VPN servers and conducted my regular writer tasks. This entailed having multiple tabs open for research, file downloads and uploads, online video meetings, and streaming music in the background.

ExpressVPN excelled in speed test outcomes. While NordVPN exhibited a respectable 0.78% increase in downloads compared to my internet service provider, its upload speed performance was less impressive, showing a 44% decrease in comparison.

See more: Importance of Cybersecurity Awareness Training for Your Organization (TechRepublic Premium)

On the flip side, ExpressVPN consistently displayed faster speeds in both metrics. It experienced only a 25.65% decrease in downloads compared to my home network and recorded a 0.37% increase in upload speeds against my ISP connection. These results indicate ExpressVPN’s capability to deliver rapid performance in both downloads and uploads.

In my view, most users would be content with either NordVPN or ExpressVPN in day-to-day usage. Both provided excellent speeds. However, for those seeking superior performance, my testing indicates that ExpressVPN is the preferred choice.

Usability and Interface

Champion: ExpressVPN

Regarding overall user experience, my preference leans towards ExpressVPN. It boasts one of the most user-friendly VPN applications I’ve encountered.

NordVPN, on the other hand, showcases a robust interface too. It employs an elegant layout and excels in consolidating all its functionalities into a unified center.

Although the NordVPN VPN application is also to my liking, I sense it can be slightly overwhelming initially. There’s a multitude of features to activate, and the server roster is less easily reachable during setup when compared to ExpressVPN. This might make it somewhat daunting for users less adept at technology who are not accustomed to toying with software.

Thankfully, once you experiment with each section of NordVPN, you come to realize that it excels at arranging and managing its numerous features effectively. However, if having a user-friendly and contemporary-looking VPN application is crucial, I suggest opting for ExpressVPN.

Value

Champion: NordVPN

Indeed, for value, I lean towards NordVPN. This is considerably influenced by NordVPN’s wider array of subscription choices and a more budget-friendly initial rate.

When we compare the basic one-year subscriptions of each VPN, NordVPN’s Base package, priced at $4.99 per month, is approximately $2 cheaper than ExpressVPN’s one-year scheme at $6.67 monthly.

Ascending a level, NordVPN’s Plus one-year subscription that includes additional security features remains more economical — tagging at $5.99 monthly compared to the identical $6.67 ExpressVPN offering.

I also commend NordVPN for providing extended, two-year subscriptions, which decrease the monthly expense to between $3 to $6. While I appreciate ExpressVPN’s clear-cut subscription models, I wish they’d introduce extended contract alternatives like this for loyal clients seeking cost savings.

Simultaneous device connections

Champion: NordVPN

Concerning device connections, the nod goes to NordVPN. At present, NordVPN permits up to 10 devices to connect simultaneously to its VPN servers. On the other hand, ExpressVPN accommodates up to eight concurrent device connections.

To be fair, the discrepancy between eight and ten is marginal, and I believe both device restrictions suffice for most users. Nonetheless, it’s essential to acknowledge NordVPN’s more competitive pricing and broader server suite.

Enhancing the value proposition, NordVPN’s service boasts additional device connections compared to ExpressVPN. The expanded device capacity can be vital for small teams or startups intending to share a subscription among their members.

NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN on Reddit

In examining Reddit conversations discussing the superior VPN, it’s evident that NordVPN and ExpressVPN are closely matched.

As per a Reddit userin the VPNAdvice community, “Nord’s been incredibly dependable so far. I’ve been utilizing it for a year now, and the allocated IP has greatly enhanced my experience as it is much swifter compared to utilizing a shared IP.” In the same community, another Reddit user expressed about ExpressVPN: “Despite the steeper cost, I wouldn’t transition from ExpressVPN to another provider.”

However, browsing through discussions addressing the superior VPNs, it appears that NordVPN is cited more frequently than ExpressVPN.

A Reddit user in the VPNOverview community shared, “I’ve experimented with numerous VPN services like Surfshark, CyberGhost, and NordVPN. NordVPN is my preferred choice. It blocks a lot of foreign content that I stream, and multiple family members also employ it. It’s highly reliable and only costs $3.50 per month. Just my personal view.”

Two providers often mentioned in conjunction with NordVPN and ExpressVPN are Surfshark and Proton VPN. These are valid alternatives as well, and I suggest you read our Surfshark assessment and Proton VPN evaluation.

NordVPN advantages and disadvantages

Pros

• Provides approximately 6,200+ servers across 111 nations.
• Meshnet protected file-sharing system.
• Threat Protection Pro against malware, ads, and trackers.
• Independently verified no-logs policy.
• Rapid VPN speeds.
• 7-day trial via the Android application.
• Double VPN and disguised servers.

Cons

• No no-cost version.
• Can be overwhelming initially.

ExpressVPN advantages and disadvantages

Pros

• Servers distributed across 105 countries.
• 18 autonomous evaluations for its services and applications.
• User-friendly, carefully crafted application interface.
• Speedy speeds and performance.
• Enhanced Protection against ads and trackers.
• Parental controls against mature websites.

Cons

• More costly.
• Free trial is restricted to mobile devices.
• Lacks more economical, 2-year subscription.

Is NordVPN or ExpressVPN suitable for your organization?

Finding it challenging to decide between NordVPN and ExpressVPN, NordVPN prevails over ExpressVPN. Its expansive server network, top-notch security features, and swift VPN speeds position it as one of the premier VPN providers on the market.

When weighed against ExpressVPN, NordVPN gains an edge with its more budget-friendly prices, assortment of subscription alternatives, and slightly greater simultaneous device connections.

I personally appreciate NordVPN’s robust emphasis on privacy and security, making it an outstanding security solution alongside its primary VPN functionalities. I consider NordVPN ideal for most users, especially those desiring a comprehensive VPN service with rapid performance and array of additional traits.

On the contrary, ExpressVPN stands out if you value having a well-designed VPN application and consistently fast speeds. ExpressVPN is also my top recommendation if enduring, third-party audits hold significant value for you.

Methodology

My head-to-head evaluation of NordVPN and ExpressVPN entailed a thorough examination of both VPNs’ characteristics, real-world efficiency, and value proposition.

To gauge each VPN, both services underwent scrutiny based on aspects ranging from their server infrastructures to their pricing structures. In particular, I considered five principal pillars, each carrying specific weightage:

• Pricing (20%).
• Fundamental VPN features (30%).
• Usability (15%).
• Customer assistance (30%).
• Expert evaluation (5%).

I also delved into real-world user feedback and reputable critiques to refine my ultimate recommendations for both NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

For velocity and functionality appraisal, I evaluated both VPNs on my personal Windows system and subjected them to tests on Ookla’s public Speedtest. Lastly, I pondered on which business types or individual users stand to derive optimal rewards from either NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

About Author

AndyC

Andy Curtis is an award-winning security consultant, researcher and public speaker. He has been working in the computer security industry since the early 1990s, having been employed by state and federal government, leading healthcare and banking providers across three continents. He has given talks about computer security for some of the world’s largest companies, worked with law enforcement agencies on investigations into hacking groups, and is a regular voice on TV and radio explaining IT security threats.

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