Intro & Overall Ratings
NordVPN outperforms ExpressVPN in overall ratings, with scores of 87% compared to 67% respectively. Both VPNs share identical jurisdictional privacy being outside the 14-Eyes surveillance alliance, AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption statuses, and provision of 30-day money back guarantee. However, NordVPN surpasses ExpressVPN by offering a lesser monthly cost of $3.79 for a 24-month subscription, in contrast to ExpressVPN’s higher rate of $6.67. NordVPN also provides an advantage of over 5,000 servers, nearly double of ExpressVPN’s 3,000, catering to users in 59 countries as compared to ExpressVPN’s coverage in 94 countries. NordVPN’s Double VPN feature for enhanced security, unmatched by ExpressVPN, provides another reason for users to prefer NordVPN over ExpressVPN. Furthermore, NordVPN’s capability to block ads and support for simultaneous connections on six devices give it additional edge over ExpressVPN. Therefore, from a user’s perspective, NordVPN emerges as the better choice mainly due to lower cost, larger server network, and enhanced security offerings.
Our Ratings
Specifications: NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
| VPN Company | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Panama | British Virgin Islands |
| Cheapest Price | $3.79/mo over 24-month subscription | $7/mo |
| Monthly Price | $12.99 | $13 |
| 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
Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer different subscription plans. ExpressVPN’s cheapest plan starts at $7/mo on their 15.00-month plan. In comparison, NordVPN charges $3.79/mo on a 24-month subscription.
Both companies offer money-back guarantee with their annual paid subscriptions. This policy allows users to try out the VPN services risk-free. If dissatisfied, subscribers have the option to cancel within the trial period and receive a full refund. This guarantee underscores the confidence both companies have in their services and provides users with a safety net when committing to a year-long subscription.
Jurisdiction
Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN share the common benefit of being based outside the 14-Eye Alliance (Panama and British Virgin Islands). This common ground means neither is inherently advantaged in terms of privacy from government surveillance. Users concerned about privacy should consider other factors like server network, connection policies, and independent audits when making their choice.
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage
NordVPN boasts a substantial network with over 5,000 servers across 59 countries, providing extensive global coverage and reliable connections. In contrast, ExpressVPN operates a significantly smaller server fleet. This difference may affect server availability and speed, particularly for users in less covered regions. NordVPN’s larger network often translates into better performance and more options for geolocation spoofing.
Double VPN Feature
NordVPN enhances privacy and security through its Double VPN feature, which routes traffic through two VPN servers for added encryption. Conversely, ExpressVPN does not offer a Double VPN option. This difference is significant for users seeking advanced security measures, as NordVPN’s Double VPN provides an additional layer of protection that is not available with ExpressVPN.
Bottomline
In our comparison of NordVPN and ExpressVPN, both providers demonstrated unique strengths. NordVPN leads with its Double VPN feature and a larger server network while ExpressVPN stands out with its Lightway protocol. It’s essential to make an informed decision based on your specific needs when choosing between these two VPN giants. Examine the service attributes you value most, whether it’s cost, server spread, encryption protocols, or unique features like Double VPN. Ensuring your final pick aligns with your necessities will bring greater satisfaction from the technology.
About NordVPN & ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a virtual private network (VPN) service provider that was founded in 2009 and is based in the British Virgin Islands. The company aims to provide users with online privacy and security by encrypting their internet traffic and shielding their IP addresses from prying eyes. With over 3,000 servers located in roughly 160 locations across 94 countries, ExpressVPN is one of the largest and most reliable VPN services available today.
In terms of security standards, ExpressVPN offers some of the most robust and comprehensive encryption options available on the market today. The company uses AES-256 encryption, which is widely considered to be unbreakable, along with OpenVPN protocols for maximum security and privacy. Additionally, ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy, meaning that it does not collect or store any user data or online activity. This commitment to privacy has earned the company widespread recognition and praise from both industry experts and customers alike.
One key feature that sets ExpressVPN apart from other VPN providers is its Lightway protocol. This protocol was designed to address some of the common issues that users face with other VPN protocols, such as slow connection speeds, high latency times, and unreliable connections. With Lightway, ExpressVPN aims to deliver a fast and secure VPN experience, even on slower or congested networks. The protocol also uses less battery power and is optimized for mobile devices, making it an excellent choice for users who frequently use their smartphones or tablets to connect to the internet.
In 2021, ExpressVPN was acquired by the cybersecurity giant Kape Technologies in a $936 million deal. While some users are optimistic that this partnership could bring about positive changes for ExpressVPN, others have expressed concern about Kape’s less-than-stellar reputation in the cybersecurity industry. On the positive side, the deal could potentially lead to increased investment in ExpressVPN’s services and technology, as well as expanded access to more resources and talent. However, skeptics worry that Kape’s history of acquiring smaller cybersecurity companies for profit may indicate a focus on monetization over improving security and privacy for users.
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.