ExpressVPN vs NordVPN — Full Comparison 2026
Last updated: February 2026 · Based on hands-on testing
Our Pick
🏆 NordVPN Wins
NordVPN maintains its lead in 2026 with superior speeds, more server locations, and better pricing. ExpressVPN still offers slightly more polished apps and excellent customer support, but struggles to justify its premium price point.
ExpressVPN
NordVPN
| Feature | ExpressVPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.8/5 |
| Monthly Price | $12.95/mo | $12.99/mo |
| 2-Year Price | $6.67/mo | $3.09/mo |
| Download Speed | 920 Mbps | 950 Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 400 Mbps | 420 Mbps |
| Latency | 25ms | 28ms |
| Servers | 3,000+ | 6,400+ |
| Countries | 105 | 111 |
| Simultaneous Devices | 8 | 10 |
| Protocols | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec |
| Streaming | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer |
Speed Comparison
In our speed tests, ExpressVPN achieved download speeds of 920 Mbps while NordVPN reached 950 Mbps. Both VPNs were tested on a 1 Gbps connection from multiple locations. NordVPN had the edge in raw throughput, though both services deliver speeds that are more than adequate for streaming, gaming, and everyday browsing.
Latency is equally important, especially for gaming and video calls. ExpressVPN averaged 25ms while NordVPN came in at 28ms. Lower latency means more responsive connections, which matters for real-time applications.
Security & Privacy
Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer strong security foundations with AES-256 encryption and no-logs policies. ExpressVPN supports Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, while NordVPN offers NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec. Both include essential security features like kill switches and DNS leak protection.
Where they differ is in the extras. ExpressVPN offers features like Lightway Protocol, TrustedServer (RAM-only), Network Lock Kill Switch, while NordVPN counters with Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, Threat Protection. These additional features can be the deciding factor depending on your specific needs.
Streaming
Streaming capability is a major differentiator between VPNs. ExpressVPN successfully unblocked Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, DAZN in our testing. NordVPN worked with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, HBO Max. Both are solid choices for streaming, though NordVPN was slightly more consistent across platforms.
Pricing & Value
ExpressVPN starts at $6.67/mo on the 2-year plan ($12.95/mo monthly), while NordVPN costs $3.09/mo for 2 years ($12.99/mo monthly). Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can try either risk-free.
Our Verdict
NordVPN maintains its lead in 2026 with superior speeds, more server locations, and better pricing. ExpressVPN still offers slightly more polished apps and excellent customer support, but struggles to justify its premium price point.
Ultimately, both ExpressVPN and NordVPN are excellent VPN services. Your choice should depend on which features matter most to you. If speed and server coverage are priorities, check the numbers above. If price is the deciding factor, compare the long-term plan costs. Either way, you're getting a quality VPN.