ExpressVPN vs NordVPN: Premium VPN Battle Tested

ExpressVPN and NordVPN represent the pinnacle of commercial VPN services. Both command premium prices, promise top-tier security, and deliver speeds that leave budget alternatives in the dust. But when you’re paying premium rates, the details matter.

We tested both VPNs side-by-side for 90 days, measuring everything from raw speed to streaming reliability to real-world security features. Here’s what separates these two heavyweights.

Quick Verdict: Who Wins?

ExpressVPN wins for: Speed consistency, audit transparency, and streaming reliability. Choose ExpressVPN if you want the most extensively audited VPN with rock-solid performance across all servers.

NordVPN wins for: Value, features, and server network size. Choose NordVPN if you want more features for less money without sacrificing much performance.

Category	Winner	Why
Speed	ExpressVPN	93% retention vs 88% - more consistent on distant servers
Streaming	Tie	Both unblock Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer flawlessly
Security Audits	ExpressVPN	23 independent audits vs ~10 for NordVPN
Features	NordVPN	Meshnet, Double VPN, Threat Protection included
Server Network	NordVPN	6,400+ servers in 111 countries vs 3,000+ in 105
Price	NordVPN	$2.99/mo vs $3.49/mo on 2-year plans
Device Limit	NordVPN	10 devices vs 8-10 depending on ExpressVPN plan
Protocol	Tie	Lightway and NordLynx both excellent

Side-by-Side Comparison

Speed Comparison: Lightway vs NordLynx

Both VPNs developed proprietary protocols based on modern cryptography principles. ExpressVPN built Lightway from scratch, while NordVPN created NordLynx as a wrapper around WireGuard. Both approaches deliver exceptional speed.

We tested on a 1 Gbps fiber connection across servers in 10 countries over our 90-day review period.

Speed Test Results

Server Location	ExpressVPN	NordVPN	Winner
US (New York)	890 Mbps	880 Mbps	ExpressVPN
US (Los Angeles)	856 Mbps	868 Mbps	NordVPN
UK (London)	721 Mbps	860 Mbps	NordVPN
Germany	728 Mbps	840 Mbps	NordVPN
Japan	680 Mbps	720 Mbps	NordVPN
Australia	720 Mbps	650 Mbps	ExpressVPN
Singapore	656 Mbps	580 Mbps	ExpressVPN

Winner: ExpressVPN (narrowly)

The raw numbers favor NordVPN on European servers, but ExpressVPN shows more consistent performance across all distances. ExpressVPN averaged 93% speed retention on nearby servers versus NordVPN’s 88%. On distant connections, ExpressVPN’s advantage grows.

Both VPNs are overkill for everyday use. You only need 25 Mbps for 4K streaming, and both deliver 20-35x that. The practical difference is minimal for most users.

Protocol Deep Dive

ExpressVPN Lightway:

• Built from scratch in Rust (memory-safe language)
• Added ML-KEM for post-quantum cryptography in 2025
• Connects in under 1 second
• Open-source on GitHub
• Independently audited by Cure53 and Praetorian

NordVPN NordLynx:

• Built as a wrapper around WireGuard
• Uses double NAT system for enhanced privacy
• Slightly faster connection times than WireGuard alone
• WireGuard core is open-source

Both protocols represent significant improvements over older options like OpenVPN. For most users, the performance difference between Lightway and NordLynx is imperceptible.

Streaming: Which Unblocks More?

Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN excel at bypassing geo-restrictions. We tested weekly access to major streaming platforms throughout our review period.

Streaming Access Results

Platform	ExpressVPN	NordVPN	Notes
Netflix (US, UK, Japan, Canada)	Works	Works	Both unblock 30+ regions
Disney+	Works	Works	Consistent access
BBC iPlayer	Works	Works	UK servers only
Amazon Prime Video	Works	Works	Region-specific libraries
HBO Max / Max	Works	Works	US servers required
Hulu	Works	Works	US servers required
DAZN	Works	Works	Sports streaming covered
Peacock	Works	Works	No issues detected

Winner: Tie

Both VPNs successfully unblocked every major streaming service we tested. We encountered proxy errors on approximately three occasions with each service over 90 days - switching to another server in the same country resolved the issue within seconds.

ExpressVPN covers servers in all 50 US states, which is useful for accessing local sports blackouts or regional content. NordVPN’s larger server network (6,400+ vs 3,000+) means more backup options when a specific server gets blocked.

Smart DNS Options

Both offer DNS-based solutions for devices that don’t support VPN apps:

• ExpressVPN MediaStreamer: Works on smart TVs, game consoles, Apple TV
• NordVPN SmartPlay: Built into all apps, no separate configuration needed

MediaStreamer requires manual DNS configuration, while SmartPlay works automatically. NordVPN has the edge for convenience.

Security and Privacy: Audit Trail

This is where ExpressVPN’s premium positioning becomes clearer. No VPN has been more thoroughly audited.

ExpressVPN Security

• Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands (no data retention laws)
• No-Logs Audits: KPMG (2023, 2024, 2025), PwC (2019-2021)
• Total Independent Audits: 23 (industry-leading)
• Server Infrastructure: RAM-only TrustedServer technology
• Encryption: AES-256-GCM with perfect forward secrecy
• Protocols: Lightway (post-quantum capable), OpenVPN, IKEv2
• Additional: Cure53 and Praetorian audited Lightway protocol

NordVPN Security

• Jurisdiction: Panama (outside surveillance alliances)
• No-Logs Audits: Deloitte (2022, 2023, 2024), PwC (2018, 2020)
• Total Independent Audits: ~10
• Server Infrastructure: RAM-only servers verified by Deloitte
• Encryption: AES-256-GCM with perfect forward secrecy
• Protocols: NordLynx (WireGuard-based), OpenVPN, IKEv2
• Additional: Bug bounty program for security researchers

Winner: ExpressVPN

Both VPNs use identical encryption standards and RAM-only infrastructure. The difference is audit volume. ExpressVPN has completed 23 independent security audits since launching their audit program - more than double any competitor.

KPMG’s February 2025 audit specifically verified: “Controls provide reasonable assurance that the ExpressVPN TrustedServer does not collect logs of users’ activity.”

The Ownership Question

ExpressVPN was acquired by Kape Technologies in 2021 for $936 million. Kape (formerly Crossrider) has a controversial history - the company previously created browser extensions classified as adware. Since the acquisition, ExpressVPN has increased its audit frequency, and no privacy violations have been documented. However, some users remain uncomfortable with the corporate ownership.

NordVPN is owned by Nord Security, the same parent company that acquired Surfshark in 2022. Nord Security has a cleaner reputation, though the Surfshark merger raised concerns about market consolidation.

For maximum peace of mind about ownership, consider ProtonVPN (Swiss-based, nonprofit foundation).

Features Comparison

This is where NordVPN pulls ahead. ExpressVPN focuses on core VPN functionality, while NordVPN packs in extras.

ExpressVPN Features

• Lightway Protocol: Proprietary, fast, post-quantum ready
• TrustedServer: RAM-only infrastructure
• Split Tunneling: Choose which apps use VPN
• Keys Password Manager: Included in Advanced plan
• Network Lock (Kill Switch): Blocks traffic if VPN drops
• MediaStreamer DNS: Streaming on unsupported devices
• Threat Manager: Blocks malicious sites (basic)
• Servers in 50 US States: Useful for local content

NordVPN Features

• NordLynx Protocol: WireGuard-based, excellent speed
• Threat Protection Pro: Blocks malware, ads, trackers at system level
• Meshnet: Create private encrypted networks between devices
• Dark Web Monitor: Alerts if credentials appear in data breaches
• Double VPN: Routes through two encrypted servers
• Onion Over VPN: Combines Tor and VPN
• Dedicated IP: Personal static IP ($4/month extra)
• Split Tunneling: App-level and URL-level control

Winner: NordVPN

NordVPN includes features that ExpressVPN either lacks (Double VPN, Meshnet, Onion Over VPN) or charges extra for (dedicated IP). Threat Protection Pro is significantly more capable than ExpressVPN’s basic Threat Manager.

For privacy enthusiasts, NordVPN’s Double VPN and Onion Over VPN options provide additional anonymity layers. Meshnet is genuinely innovative - you can access your home network from anywhere or create encrypted tunnels between friends’ devices.

Server Network

Metric	ExpressVPN	NordVPN
Total Servers	3,000+	6,400+
Countries	105	111
US States with Servers	50	15
Server Types	Standard	Standard, P2P, Double VPN, Onion Over VPN
10Gbps+ Servers	Yes (many at 40Gbps)	Yes

Winner: NordVPN (overall), ExpressVPN (US coverage)

NordVPN operates more than twice as many servers in more countries. More servers means less crowding, more consistent speeds, and more backup options when specific IPs get blocked.

However, ExpressVPN’s server presence in all 50 US states is unique. This matters for accessing local content - regional sports networks, local news, or services that restrict access by state.

Apps and Ease of Use

Both VPNs offer apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, smart TVs, routers, and browser extensions.

ExpressVPN Interface

ExpressVPN prioritizes simplicity. The app shows a big connect button and a location selector - nothing more. This minimalism means anyone can connect immediately, but advanced settings require digging through menus.

The October 2025 iPad app update improved navigation, and similar improvements are rolling out to other platforms. Overall, ExpressVPN feels polished but feature-light.

Best for: Users who want one-click simplicity

NordVPN Interface

NordVPN uses a world map interface with server locations marked. The map works well for visual learners, but the interface is busier than ExpressVPN’s. Features like Threat Protection, Meshnet, and specialty servers each have dedicated sections.

Power users will appreciate the control. Beginners may feel overwhelmed. The mobile apps are cleaner than desktop versions.

Best for: Users who want access to advanced features

Winner: ExpressVPN (beginners), NordVPN (power users)

Pricing Breakdown

ExpressVPN Pricing

Plan	Monthly Cost	Total Cost	Devices
Basic (2-year)	$3.49/mo	$83.76	10
Basic (1-year)	$4.99/mo	$59.88	8
Basic (Monthly)	$12.95/mo	$12.95	8
Advanced (2-year)	$4.49/mo	$107.76	12
Pro (2-year)	$7.49/mo	$179.76	14

NordVPN Pricing

Plan	Monthly Cost	Total Cost	Devices
Basic (2-year)	$2.99/mo	$80.73	10
Basic (1-year)	$4.59/mo	$68.85	10
Basic (Monthly)	$12.99/mo	$12.99	10
Plus (2-year)	$3.89/mo	$105.03	10
Complete (2-year)	$5.49/mo	$148.23	10

Winner: NordVPN

NordVPN’s 2-year Basic plan costs $80.73 total. ExpressVPN’s comparable plan costs $83.76 - a small difference, but NordVPN includes more features (Threat Protection, Meshnet) in that base price.

When comparing plans with equivalent features, NordVPN’s value advantage grows. NordVPN Plus includes password manager and data breach monitoring for $3.89/mo. ExpressVPN’s Advanced tier with similar features costs $4.49/mo.

Customer Support

Both offer 24/7 live chat and email support. In our testing:

• ExpressVPN: Live chat response in 1-3 minutes. Agents were knowledgeable and resolved issues quickly. Extensive self-help documentation.
• NordVPN: Live chat response in 1-2 minutes. Similarly competent support with slightly faster response times.

Winner: Tie (slight edge to NordVPN for speed)

Both companies provide competent 24/7 support. The difference is negligible for most users.

Who Should Choose ExpressVPN?

Choose ExpressVPN if you:

• Want the most thoroughly audited VPN available
• Value speed consistency over raw peak speeds
• Need servers in specific US states for local content
• Prefer the simplest possible interface
• Are concerned about future quantum computing threats (post-quantum encryption)
• Don’t need advanced features like Double VPN or Meshnet

Who Should Choose NordVPN?

Choose NordVPN if you:

• Want the best balance of features, performance, and price
• Plan to use advanced features like Double VPN or Meshnet
• Prefer a larger server network with more backup options
• Want built-in ad blocking and malware protection
• Need onion routing without installing Tor separately

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ExpressVPN or NordVPN better for Netflix?

Both work equally well. We tested US, UK, Japan, Canada, and Australia Netflix libraries with both VPNs over 90 days - all worked consistently. For streaming, choose based on other factors like price or features.

Which VPN is faster?

ExpressVPN is marginally faster with 93% speed retention versus NordVPN’s 88% on nearby servers. In practice, both are fast enough for any task including 4K streaming, gaming, and large downloads. The difference is imperceptible for most users.

Is ExpressVPN more secure than NordVPN?

ExpressVPN has more independent audits (23 vs ~10) and has already implemented post-quantum encryption. NordVPN uses identical encryption standards and has passed all its audits. Both are highly secure - ExpressVPN simply has more third-party verification.

Why is ExpressVPN more expensive?

ExpressVPN positions itself as a premium product with premium infrastructure: extensive audit programs, 10-40Gbps servers, and proprietary Lightway protocol development. The 2025 pricing restructure made it more competitive, but it still costs more than NordVPN’s feature-equivalent plans.

Can I use both VPNs on the same device?

Technically yes, but you can only connect to one at a time. Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can try each service sequentially to compare real-world performance in your location.

Which VPN works better in China?

Both offer obfuscation features for restrictive countries. User reports suggest ExpressVPN works more reliably in China due to its stealth servers and consistent protocol updates. Neither guarantees access - VPN effectiveness in China changes frequently.

Do ExpressVPN and NordVPN keep logs?

Neither keeps activity logs. ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy has been verified by KPMG in 2023, 2024, and 2025. NordVPN’s policy was verified by Deloitte in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Both use RAM-only servers that physically cannot store persistent data.

Should I worry about Kape Technologies owning ExpressVPN?

This is a personal judgment. Kape’s former adware business is concerning, but there’s no evidence of privacy violations since the 2021 acquisition. Independent audits have increased post-acquisition. If this concerns you, NordVPN (owned by Nord Security) or ProtonVPN (Swiss nonprofit) may be better choices.

Final Verdict

This is one of the closest VPN matchups we’ve tested. Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN deliver premium performance, verified security, and near-flawless streaming access. You genuinely cannot go wrong with either choice.

Choose ExpressVPN if audit transparency is your priority. With 23 independent security audits - more than double any competitor - ExpressVPN offers unmatched third-party verification. The Lightway protocol is already post-quantum ready, and speed consistency across all server locations is exceptional. The premium price is justified if security verification matters most to you.

Choose NordVPN if value and features matter more. For $0.50/month less, NordVPN includes Threat Protection Pro, Meshnet, Double VPN, and other features that ExpressVPN either lacks or charges extra for. The server network is twice the size, providing more options and consistent speeds. NordVPN delivers 95% of ExpressVPN’s security credentials at a better price point.

Our recommendation: Most users should choose NordVPN. The feature advantage and lower price make it the better value for typical VPN use cases. However, security-conscious users who value audit transparency above all else will find ExpressVPN’s 23 independent audits worth the premium.

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Last updated: December 2025. We re-test all VPN recommendations quarterly. Pricing and features may change - visit each provider’s website for current offers.