Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
NordVPN exceeds ExpressVPN in overall ratings with a score of 83.5% over 77.9%. Both VPNs operate in jurisdictions outside the 14-Eyes Alliance – NordVPN in Panama and ExpressVPN in British Virgin Islands. NordVPN comes out cheaper at $2.99/mo over a 24-month subscription, compared to ExpressVPN’s $6.67/mo. Both VPNs offer AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, similar server counts, and support various protocols. However, NordVPN surpasses ExpressVPN with more server countries, simultaneous device connections, and additional features like Double VPN and ad blocking. Hence, from a user’s point of view, NordVPN proves to be a better choice due to its combination of cost-effectiveness, extensive server coverage, and enhanced features.
About Our VPN Rating Systems
Our reviews delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Ratings are based on our comprehensive research of 96 VPN companies. Out of 96 VPNs we reviewed, only 11 surpass the 75% threshold in our evaluation, while half of the reviewed services score below average (54.1%).
Why Read Our VPN Guide?
- Our VPN reviews are unbiased and data-driven. We are not affiliated to any of the VPN companies listed on this website.
- Our rating system covers diverse user needs. We delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Specifications: NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
| VPN Company | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Panama | British Virgin Islands |
| Cheapest Price | $2.99/mo over 24-month subscription | $6.67/mo |
| Monthly Price | $12.99 | $12.95 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | Yes |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-256, and ChaCha20 |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPSec | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and Lightway |
| Servers | 5,000 | 3,000 |
| Servers Countries | 59 | 94 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 6 devices | 8 devices |
| Works in China? | Yes, but unreliable | Partially |
| Smart DNS | Yes | Yes |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extension | Yes | Yes |
| Double VPN | Yes | No |
| Ads Blocking | Yes | No |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| Third Party Audit | Deloitte | Cure53 |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, and Email | 24/7 Live Chat |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: NordVPN Better
At $3.79/mo, NordVPN offers a wallet-friendly VPN solution, in contrast to ExpressVPN’s higher-priced offering at $6.67/mo. This price variance prompts users to ponder the added value provided by ExpressVPN. Highlighting its military-grade encryption (AES-256, and ChaCha20), exceptional 24/7 Live Chat support, and an expansive server network spanning 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN showcases its premium features.
However, it’s essential to compare these with NordVPN’s services to determine if the additional investment in ExpressVPN aligns with what users seek in a VPN, balancing cost against specific feature needs.
ExpressVPN Plans
NordVPN Plans
Jurisdiction: Tie
Catering to the privacy-focused, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN have strategically established their headquarters outside the jurisdiction of the 14-Eyes Alliance. NordVPN takes advantage of the robust privacy laws of Panama; while ExpressVPN is based in British Virgin Islands, another location known for its commitment to user privacy.
This geographical aspect distinctly sets them apart from VPN providers operating within countries deeply involved in intelligence-sharing networks.
Understanding the 14-Eyes Alliance
Originating from the Five-Eyes and expanding to the Nine-Eyes, the 14-Eyes Alliance includes major global players like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several European countries. In these territories, VPN services may be legally bound to hand over user data, potentially undermining their promises of no logs.
By opting for NordVPN or ExpressVPN, both located beyond the reach of this alliance, users gain an additional shield of protection against such governmental intrusions. This positions these VPN services as preferred choices for those who prioritize utmost confidentiality.
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage: Tie
NordVPN and ExpressVPN excel in server availability. NordVPN has a large network of 5,000 servers accross 59 countries. This means easy, fast connections from almost anywhere. ExpressVPN also has a wide reach – the VPN company operates 3,000 servers in 94 countries. Both offer reliable, speedy internet access.
Money Back Guarantee: Tie
A standout aspect of both NordVPN and ExpressVPN is their dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction – which clearly reflected in their extensive money-back guarantees. Such policies are a bold testament to their confidence in the quality of their services, offering users a no-risk chance to fully engage with each VPN’s array of features. Whether it’s the extensive server network of NordVPN or the robust security features of ExpressVPN, customers can explore these services in depth before making a long-term commitment.
Double VPN Feature: NordVPN Better
One of the notable differences between NordVPN and ExpressVPN is the inclusion of a double VPN feature. NordVPN offers this advanced feature, which routes your internet traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of security and privacy. On the other hand, ExpressVPN does not provide a double VPN option.
Ad Blocking Feature: NordVPN Better
A significant differentiator between NordVPN and ExpressVPN lies in their performance in unblocking popular streaming platforms. NordVPN excels in this regard, consistently providing users with access to a broad spectrum of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Nord users can reliably enjoy their preferred shows and movies from virtually any location.
Conversely, ExpressVPN faces challenges when it comes to this aspect. Despite having servers in 94 countries, the VPN frequently encounters difficulties in reliably unblocking major streaming platforms. This limitation is of paramount importance for users who prioritize seamless access to streaming content and are in search of a VPN service capable of effectively circumventing geo-restrictions.
Bottomline
In conclusion, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer robust features and high-standard services tailored to cater to various user needs. When considering cost efficiency and additional features like Double VPN and ad blocking, NordVPN takes the lead, yet ExpressVPN’s vast server network and strong security elements make it a formidable contender, illustrating that the optimal VPN choice highly hinges upon individual user requirements and priorities.
About NordVPN & ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
Founded in 2009 by Peter Burchhardt and Dan Pomerantz, ExpressVPN stands out for its speed and extensive server network, with over 3,000 servers across 94 countries. It uses TrustedServer technology for enhanced security and supports AES-256 encryption. ExpressVPN offers wide device compatibility, including routers and smart TVs, and provides 24/7 customer support. The company is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands.
To learn more, read our ExpressVPN review.
NordVPN
NordVPN is a virtual private network (VPN) service provider that has been in operation since 2012. The company has its headquarters in Panama, which is outside the jurisdiction of the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes intelligence alliances. NordVPN is the flagship product of Tefincom & Co. S.A., a company that focuses on providing internet privacy and security solutions.
NordVPN offers several features that make it a popular VPN choice for individuals and businesses alike. The company has over 5,000 servers in over 59 countries, which makes it easy for users to connect to the internet from almost anywhere in the world. NordVPN also offers its users unlimited bandwidth, which means that they can browse and download content without worrying about data caps.
NordVPN places a strong emphasis on security and privacy. The company uses military-grade encryption to protect user data, and it allows users to browse the internet anonymously by masking their IP addresses. NordVPN also has a strict no-logs policy, which means that it does not store any information about its users’ online activities.
To learn more, read our NordVPN review.