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Head-to-head

ExpressVPN vs NordVPN

ExpressVPN is simple and polished; NordVPN is faster and cheaper on long plans.

Verdict

Pick ExpressVPN if you want the simplest app and do not mind paying more. Pick NordVPN for the best balance of speed, features and price on long plans.

When ExpressVPN wins

  • You want the easiest, most polished apps
  • You value simplicity over extra features
  • You want RAM-only servers and clean audits

When NordVPN wins

  • You want the fastest connections
  • You want extra security features like Threat Protection
  • You want the lowest price on a 2-year plan

At a glance

Comparison of ExpressVPN and NordVPN
ToolBest forStarting price
Rank 1ExpressVPNPeople who want an easy, polished app and don’t mind paying a bit moreFrom about $2.50/month (2-year plan)
Rank 2NordVPNEveryday privacy, streaming and public Wi-Fi protectionFrom about $3.50/month (2-year plan)

The two tools, in full

  1. Rank 1
    Top pick

    ExpressVPN

    Premium VPN known for simplicity and reliability.

    Best forPeople who want an easy, polished app and don’t mind paying a bit more

    What it does

    ExpressVPN encrypts your traffic and lets you connect to servers in many countries with very little setup. Its apps are designed to be simple to use.

    Strengths

    • Very easy to use on all major devices
    • Servers run on RAM only, so data is wiped on every restart
    • Security setup has been reviewed by independent auditors
    • 30-day money-back guarantee

    Good to know: Plans and prices have changed often this year, so check the current price before you buy.

  2. Rank 2

    NordVPN

    A fast, well-rounded VPN with extra security tools built in.

    Best forEveryday privacy, streaming and public Wi-Fi protection

    What it does

    NordVPN encrypts your internet connection and hides your real location. It runs on phones, computers and many other devices, and has a large network of servers worldwide.

    Strengths

    • Fast connections thanks to its own NordLynx protocol
    • Threat Protection to help block malicious sites and trackers
    • Its no-logs policy has been checked by independent audits
    • 30-day money-back guarantee

    Good to know: Long plans are much cheaper than monthly billing, and renewal prices are higher than the first-term price.

Frequently asked questions

Which is faster?
NordVPN is generally faster on benchmark tests thanks to its NordLynx protocol. ExpressVPN is fast too, but typically slightly behind.
Which is better for streaming?
Both work well for streaming. NordVPN has a slight edge on server variety and speed; ExpressVPN has slightly easier apps.
Which has a free plan?
Neither. Both offer a 30-day money-back guarantee instead. Proton VPN is the free option on our VPN list.