NordVPN vs ExpressVPN | Which One is Better? Which Private Network is Better in 2023?

Last Updated:Feb 15, 2024

ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN is a heated topic of discussion, as both new-generation and top VPN brands are on the market. However, choosing one of them for your device is just as difficult as picking Pepsi or Coca-Cola.

expressvpn vs nordvpn

Both names are highly celebrated and well-reputed when it comes to premium private networks. These two programs can effectively keep you anonymous on the internet while taking care of your privacy.

Besides, just like how smoothly NordVPN works with Netflix and other streaming platforms, ExpressVPN can also do the job with equal efficiency. However, you do not need two private networks for your device. So, the question is how will you pick one from these two VPNs?

Therefore, this write-up will compare both of these VPNs for you and sort out the best program that suits all your needs.

Summary Comparison of ExpressVPN vs NordVPN

If you are short on time, follow this table to get a clear idea without reading the whole article.

NordVPNExpressVPN
Servers5800+ in 60 countries3000+ in 94 countries
No Logs PolicyYesYes
Pricing3.19 USD/month6.67 USD/month
VPN ProtocolsOpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard (NordLynx)Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2
Streaming DevicesNetflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and moreNetflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more
PlatformsWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Simultaneous Connections68

Now, you can proceed further if you want a detailed comparison of these two programs.

Security – Which Program is More Secure?

The makers of both NordVPN and ExpressVPN have put a lot of effort into making their programs one of the best in the market. When it comes to security, there is not even a single point in which these platforms lack. 

Moreover, the primary role of a VPN is to keep you safe and secure from malicious programs over the internet. Therefore, in this NordVPN vs ExpressVPN discussion, we are prioritizing security more than anything else.

NordVPNExpressVPN
EncryptionAES-256AES-256
RAM ServersYesYes
No-Logs PolicyYesYes
Outside the 14-Eyes AllianceYesYes
Kill SwitchYesYes
Ad BlockerYesNo
DNS Leak ProtectionYesYes

As you can see in the table, both VPNs are best in every aspect. Be it features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, or even staying out of the 14-eyes alliance, both platforms perform well in each aspect. 

However, there is one aspect that ExpressVPN lacks, which is Ad Blocker. This means you cannot expect the platform to block advertisements on the internet whenever you are surfing the web.

In this case, we can conclude that going for NordVPN is a much better option. 

Pricing – Which Program is More Cost-Effective?

After security, pricing and plans of the VPN hold the second priority. There are discounts and deals that are almost always active on the official sites of both programs. Still, here is the comparison table that shows Express VPN vs Nord VPN in terms of pricing. Find out which one is a more cost-effective option for you.

NordVPNExpressVPN
Free TrialNoNo
Cheapest Monthly Price$3.19/month$6.67/month
Highest Monthly Price$12.99/month$12.95/month
1-yearly Plan Cost$4.99/month$6.67/month
2-year Plan Cost$3.19/month
Current Best Offer68% off the 2-year plan + 3 extra monthsSave 49% on the 12-month plan

As you can conclude from the table, ExpressVPN is slightly on the expensive side whereas NordVPN proved to be a better and more affordable option. Both the programs do not offer any free trial, which means you have to make payments upfront in order to use their services.

That said, after discussing their prices, we should also discuss the payment options that they support.

NordVPNExpressVPN
Credit CardYesYes
PayPalYesYes
Amazon PayYesNo
Apple PayYesYes
Google PayYesYes
CryptocurrenciesYesYes

Here also we can see that ExpressVPN lacks Amazon Pay as a payment option, whereas NordVPN supports every option you can think of. However, are ExpressVPN prices viable? Or is it worth paying almost double the amount for a plan as compared to NordVPN’s plan? Keep it up with the write-up till the end to find out.

Speed Comparison – Which VPN Program is Faster?

Whenever you connect your device to a VPN server, its speed gets compromised by a certain percentage. Due to the geographical distance between the device and the server, connectivity speed varies between different server locations. For example, the USA, UK, Asia, Europe, Oceania, etc. offer different connectivity speeds with respect to your location.

However, server location is not the only key to the speed. If programs are also effective and provide great service quality, you will still receive great speed. That said, here is the comparison table for you between NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

NordVPNExpressVPN
DownloadUploadDownloadUpload
USA25%24%10%12%
UK57%49%11%16%
Canada45%43%19%21%
Germany71%67%16%19%
France82%75%23%32%
Japan49%45%15%20%

These download speeds are recorded and presented with the baseline speed of 1000Mbit/second. This means you get advanced and fast data speed if you opt for NordVPN instead of ExpressVPN.

Features – Which VPN is Feature Rich?

Proceeding ahead with the topic – Express VPN vs Nord VPN, it is time to discuss some of their features. Nevertheless, it’s needless to say that both of the VPNS cover every essential feature required for data security. 

Have a look at this table for details:

NordVPNExpressVPN
Split TunnelingYesYes
RAM OnlyYesYes (Trusted Server)
Stealth VPNYesYes
Smart DNSYes (SmartPlay)Yes (MediaStreamer)
Specialty ServersYesYes
Web FiltersYes (ThreatProtection)Yes (ThreatManager)
Breach CheckersYes (Dark Web Monitor)Yes (Keys)

Apart from these basic features, there are some additional exclusive features that each program comes with. Here is the list below:

NordVPN Exclusive Features

Some additional features that make NordVPN the king of security are:

  • Meshnet: With this feature, you can easily establish connections between up to 60 devices for remote file locations and collaboration.
  • Double VPN: This VPN provides you extra security by routing your network through two different VPN servers.
  • Dedicated IP Address: If you are seeking a VPN for a consistent IP address, NordVPN is your way to go.

With the exclusive features, you can do anything on the internet without compromising your information. Also, you can say that NordVPN is good for torrenting, streaming, accessing blocked websites, and many more things.

ExpressVPN Exclusive Features

ExpressVPN is no less than Nord. Here is the list of those additional features that make ExpressVPN a strong competitor:

  • Router Applet: With this feature, you can conveniently establish a VPN connection with your router.
  • Threat Manager: Threat Manager safeguards you from accessing malicious websites and falling into the traps of cyberattacks or breaches.
  • Password Manager: The password manager feature of ExpressVPN helps you make a safe and powerful password so that it can help keep you safe.

With these exclusive features, we can conclude that ExpressVPN is as safe as NordVPN.

Server Locations – Which VPN Offers More Servers?

NordVPN comes with more than 5800 servers, whereas ExpressVPN offers 3000+ servers. But does the number really matter that much?

NordVPNExpressVPN
Servers5800+3000+
Countries6094
Virtual LocationsNoYes
Specialty ServersYes (Double VPN, obfuscated, P2P, Onion over servers)No

Here also, NordVPN is proving itself to be a better option than ExpressVPN. In fact, Nord comes with specialty servers like double VPN, P2P, and onion over servers that provide it a great edge over its competition.

Speaking of the upper hand, one great aspect about NordVPN that might make it a more captivating option is that it is based in Panama. Just like Switzerland, Panama is also renowned for its privacy laws and keeping information private.

Therefore, just like Swizz-based PrivadoVPN, NordVPN also offers you a highly secured jurisdiction of Panama rules and regulations to keep your anonymous and private on the internet.

Which VPN Works Best in China?

Considering the fact that whether the VPN program is able to bypass the firewall of China is the biggest test. China has established a great firewall system that allows only Chinese citizens to access the content as directed by the government. 

Speaking of NordVPN and ExpressVPN, both of them can effectively bypass the restrictions put up by the government with a few clicks. However, a point to note here is that the firewall system is extremely advanced, and not all private networks are able to surpass the blockade.

  • When it comes to NordVPN, it uses Obfuscated servers’ technology to tear down the digital borders. This feature lets you connect to the servers that are made specially to curb DPIs and other censorship.
  • ExpressVPN automatically engages the necessary measures that are needed to be used while surpassing the barriers. For this automatic feature, all that you have to do is set your tunneling protocol to automatic.

However, if we take the public review into consideration, NordVPN does not work that well in China, when compared to ExpressVPN. Therefore, if you want to enjoy unrestricted internet surfing in China, ExpressVPN is a better option.

Streaming – Which VPN is Best for Streaming?

Streaming is in trend. But do you know that you do not get to enjoy all the shows and movies on the streaming platforms? Well, the entertainment supplies that you get on different platforms are filtered with respect to your geolocations. 

However, you can still watch and enjoy them using a VPN. Luckily, both programs come under the list of best VPNs for Amazon Fire Stick, Netflix, and other streaming platforms. Therefore, proceeding further with ExpressVPN vs NordVPN, let’s find out which private network is better for your streaming needs.

NordVPNExpressVPN
NetflixYesYes
Amazon Prime VideoYesYes
HuluYesYes
MaxYesYes
Disney+YesYes
BBC iPlayerYesYes

As you can see in the table, you can pretty much unlock all the geolocation libraries of different platforms with either of the private networks. Also, you can certainly enjoy your shows and movies in HD or 4K, thanks to their high-speed connectivity.

Torrenting and P2P – Which VPN is Better?

Speaking of torrenting, both private networks are good with their capabilities. However, it is not recommended to torrent stuff as they are not originally from the makers and can be counted as piracy. Be it movies, shows, documents, or anything.

However, if you still feel the need, you can go for ExpressVPN. Why? Well, the generous ExpressVPN allows you to enable P2P in its all servers, whereas NordVPN only has some special servers that can be used for torrenting or P2P.

Moreover, ExpressVPN has its servers spread across 94 countries of the planet, whereas NordVPN has only 60 countries to plant their servers. Therefore, if the answer is to be given in one word, ExpressVPN is a better choice for torrenting. 

Compatibility – Which Program is More Compatible?

The comparison table of this section will tell you if NordVPN or ExpressVPN has a better UI and UX. Therefore, let’s just dive into it.

NordVPNExpressVPN
Supported OSWindows, macOS, Linux (no GUI), Android, iOSWindows, macOS, Linux (no GUI), Android, iOS
Supported DevicesAndroid TV, Fire, Roku, Kodi devices, Apple TV, and moreAndroid TV, Fire devices, routers, Apple TV, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox devices, and more
Browser ExtensionsChrome, Firefox, EdgeChrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi
Simultaneous Connections68
Usability LevelEasy Easy

With this table, you might have gotten an idea of which program has the edge. NordVPN or ExpressVPN. ExpressVPN supports more OS and devices than NordVPN, whereas NordVPN lacks this feature.

Additionally, ExpressVPN provides you with higher simultaneous connection limits. Hence, it is clear that ExpressVPN is better and more convenient to use.

Customer Support – Which Private Network Supports Its Users Better?

Being a premium private network service, both ExpressVPN and NordVPN have excellent and responsive teams in their customer support table. However, to portray a better image in your mind, here is the comparison table between these 2 programs.

NordVPNExpressVPN
24/7 Live ChatYesYes
EmailYesYes
Phone LineNoNo
Guideline ArticlesYesYes
FAQsYesYes

It is a clear draw between the contenders. Both platforms lack in providing a phone line for their users. Still, you can go for other contact alternatives and get yourself connected to their responsible and helpful customer support team.

That said, whether you are in search of the best VPNs for Australia or any other country on this planet, in terms of customer support, both ExpressVPN and NordVPN are equally good for you.

NordVPN vs ExpressVPN – Which VPN Won the Battle?

With that many aspects compared, it is now pretty clear which VPN is better. After analyzing all the comparison tables and pointers from the write-up, here are the final results.

NordVPNExpressVPN
PriceThe cheapest plan starts from $3.19/monthThe cheapest plan starts from $6.67/month
SpeedNordVPN is fasterExpressVPN is comparatively slower
FeaturesIt comes with a lot of exclusive featuresIt is equally safe but comes with comparatively fewer exclusive features
ProtectionAES with 256-bit Encryption keysAES with 256-bit Encryption keys
StreamingUnblocks almost every libraryUnblocks almost every library
TorrentingSafe for torrentingSafe for torrenting
Unblocks China FirewallUnblocks Chinese FirewallUnblocks Chinese Firewall
Server LocationsComes with 5800+ servers in 60 different countriesComes with 3000+ servers in 94 countries
Ease of UseIt lacks compatibility if compared to ExpressVPNIt is more compatible than NordVPN
Customer SupportIt offers an equally effective and responsible customer support teamIt offers an equally effective and responsible customer support team

With this overall comparison, we can see that NordVPN clearly dominates ExpressVPN in some fields. For instance, speed, number of servers, streaming, etc. However, no platform is built perfect. There are some areas where ExpressVPN surpasses NordVPN. For instance compatibility.

But one thing that both programs guarantee is privacy and anonymity. From staying safe and secure on Omegle to surfing the internet anonymously or unblocking streaming libraries, NordVPN and ExpressVPN can do it all. That said, we hope that now you will be able to decide which platform is better and will suit you according to your needs. 

Conclusion

Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN are best on their own terms. Both programs come under the list of best private networks from the premium category. However, there are some aspects where NordVPN has been able to outperform ExpressVPN such as price, speed, and features.

Still, ExpressVPN is way better and has all the necessary technologies needed to keep you safe and secure. It also manages to enter the rank of the top 5 VPNs on the internet. Therefore, you can go for any of them to stay safe online. However, you must consider this comparison and make your choice with respect to your needs and requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is NordVPN better than ExpressVPN?

Yes, clearly, NordVPN dominates ExpressVPN in so many aspects like streaming, speed, features, price, etc.

Which VPN is better for Netflix?

You can go with either of them (NordVPN or ExpressVPN) for streaming Netflix, as they are equally good.

Is NordVPN faster than ExpressVPN?

Yes, NordVPN clearly surpasses ExpressVPN in terms of connection speed.

Sources

NordVPN Vs ExpressVPN (2023 Comparison) – Forbes Advisor

Bhawana Thakur

Follow Me:

FROM OUR BLOGS
Related Post
error: Content is protected !!
×