NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
Head-to-head comparison based on real testing data — February 2026
Tie — both VPNs win in an equal number of categories
Category-by-Category
| Category | NordVPN | ExpressVPN | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | 9.5 | vs | 9.7 |
| Privacy | 9.5 | vs | 9.4 |
| Streaming | 9.6 | vs | 9.8 |
| Security | 9.7 | vs | 9.5 |
| Price | $3.09/mo | vs | $2.44/mo |
| Servers | 8,800+ | vs | 3,000+ |
| Devices | 10 | vs | 10 |
Speed Comparison
NordVPN has a -5% speed drop while ExpressVPN shows -2%. ExpressVPN takes this category with faster real-world performance. Speed data is based on independent benchmarks across multiple protocols and server locations.
Privacy Comparison
NordVPN is based in Panama while ExpressVPN operates from BVI. NordVPN edges ahead in privacy with a stronger overall privacy profile. Scores are based on no-logs policies, audit history, jurisdiction, encryption standards, and leak protection.
Streaming Comparison
NordVPN unblocks 6 streaming services while ExpressVPN unblocks 7. ExpressVPN wins this category with more reliable streaming access across platforms. Streaming compatibility is evaluated across multiple platforms and server locations.
Security Comparison
Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer AES-256 encryption and kill switch protection. NordVPN scores higher in security due to additional features and infrastructure hardening. Security scores are based on encryption, protocol implementation, DNS/IP leak protection, kill switch reliability, and server infrastructure.
Full Specification Comparison
| Feature | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Protocols | NordLynx, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | Lightway, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-hop | Yes | No |
| Ad Blocker | Yes | Yes |
| Jurisdiction | Panama | BVI |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 | 10 |
| Server Count | 8,800+ | 3,000+ |
| Country Count | 127 | 105 |
| Speed Drop | -5% | -2% |
| Lowest Price | $3.09/mo | $2.44/mo |
| Plan Length | 2yr plan | 28mo plan |
| Streaming Services | Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, HBO Max | Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Peacock, DAZN |