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NordVPN Vs. ExpressVPN 2025 Comparison

Updated: Nov 28, 2024, 12:07pm

Contributor,  Editor

Updated: Nov 28, 2024, 12:07pm

Rob Watts
Former Editor

Reviewed By

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NordVPN and ExpressVPN are two popular VPN options and rank among our list of top 10 VPNs in 2025. They are both good options for users looking to secure their online accounts, seek better security measures for their online business, or use public Wi-Fi. Both offer high-speed encrypted internet access through a virtual private network (VPN) with thousands of servers around the world.

In this comparison, we examine the differences between these two companies in terms of price, servers, device compatibility, and customer service. Find out which one is best for your home or business.

ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN: At a Glance


Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN are popular choices, though their offerings vary in terms of price and features. ExpressVPN is more expensive, but it also offers more server locations. NordVPN is more affordable and comes with the option for a dedicated IP at an additional cost, while ExpressVPN does not. Both companies offer 24/7 customer service and the ability to sign up for a monthly or annual plan. ExpressVPN’s plan comes with an additional option for a six-month subscription.

NordVPN

NordVPN
4.1
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Cost

Around INR 418.99 ($4.99) p/m (billed annually)

Compatibility

Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android TV

Maximum number of devices

10

NordVPN
Buy Now
On NordVPN's Website

Annual Cost

Around INR 418.99 ($4.99) p/m (billed annually)

Compatibility

Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android TV

Maximum number of devices

10

Why We Picked It

NordVPN is one of the most popular VPNs on the market. It is suitable for both personal and business use. For an additional cost, NordLayer makes it easy to protect everyone on your team’s accounts. Additionally, NordVPN comes with the option of a dedicated IP address.

Read more: NordVPN Review

Pros & Cons
  • A high number of servers (6,293 in 111 countries)
  • Dedicated IP add-on available
  • 24/7 customer support
  • More expensive than other VPNs
  • Cost for dedicated IP is higher than some competitors

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN
3.8
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Cost

Around INR 699.44 ($8.33) p/m (billed annually)

Compatibility

Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, Linux

Maximum number of devices

8

ExpressVPN
Buy Now
At 35% off on ExpressVPN's secure website

Annual Cost

Around INR 699.44 ($8.33) p/m (billed annually)

Compatibility

Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, Linux

Maximum number of devices

8

Why We Picked It

ExpressVPN is a popular high-speed VPN provider. Its servers are privately held in the British Virgin Islands, a country that is not required to share its data with other countries and is therefore considered privacy-friendly. ExpressVPN has servers in 105 countries, which ensures you will be able to connect to a location with fast internet speed.

Related: ExpressVPN Review

Pros & Cons
  • Positive user reviews
  • A high number of server locations
  • Includes router app that protects all connected devices
  • More expensive than other VPNs
  • Limited business usage
  • No dedicated IP option

How NordVPN and ExpressVPN Stack Up

NordVPNExpressVPN
Annual PriceAround INR 418.99 ($4.99) p/m (billed annually)Around INR 699.44 ($8.33) p/m (billed annually)
EncryptionAES with 256-bit keysAES with 256-bit keys
Free trial period30 days30 days
OS compatibilityAndroid, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Android TVAndroid, iOS, Mac, Windows, Linux
Dedicated IP add-onYes, costs INR 494.64 ($5.89) p/mYes, costs around INR 267.90 ($3.19) p/m
Max no. of devices108
Server locations6,293 in 111 countries105 countries
24/7 supportYesYes

Plans and pricing of NordVPN and ExpressVPN are accurate as of Nov. 21, 2024

When it comes to price, NordVPN is considerably cheaper than ExpressVPN, at around INR 418.99 ($4.99) per month for a year compared to around INR 699.44 ($8.33) per month. Both VPNs are compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and Linux, while NordVPN will also connect to Android TV. Both companies also offer a 30-day trial period.

The encryption and free trial length are the same for both of these VPNs. NordVPN offers a slightly higher number of devices, at 10 compared with eight. (Other VPNs allow you to use their service on an unlimited number of devices, so it’s worth researching these options if you plan on using the VPN on more devices.)

NordVPN has a higher number of servers, at 6,293 in 111 countries, compared to ExpressVPN’s servers in 105 countries—which is beneficial for accessing geographical content you plan to connect your VPN. NordVPN makes it easy to figure out if their server locations will match yours on its website. Similarly, ExpressVPN makes it simple to find out where its 160 servers are located online.

NordVPN offers a dedicated IP add-on for around INR 494.64 ($5.89) per month. This allows you to access IP-restricted networks while maintaining your anonymity. NordVPN is also compatible with businesses through NordLayer, its business-tier subscription option.

ExpressVPN Unique Features

ExpressVPN has servers in 105 countries and offices spread internationally in over 20 cities. The company, however, needs to provide its server network details. It uses strong AES-256 encryption technology to protect users’ internet activities. It offers all major VPN features like a kill switch, split tunneling, private DNS—add-ons that protect against malicious sites, and a password manager. It uses the Lightway, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 VPN protocols. Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat and email support. It offers an incredible setup and dashboard for easy navigation. An email address is mandatory for registration.

NordVPN Unique Features

NordVPN’s offering is not so different either. Its astounding 6,500 servers in 111 countries allow VPN users to access geographical content internationally. It uses AES-256 encryption with a 4096-bit DH key to protect users’ privacy. Major VPN features include multifactor authentication, double VPN, split tunneling, private DNS, obfuscated servers to hide your VPN usage, and DNS leak tests to ensure your data is protected. Businesses can opt for NordLayer to protect their team’s accounts. There’s also a SmartPlay for a dedicated streaming service.

Streaming Performance: NordVPN vs. Express VPN

NordVPN offers an in-built feature for dedicated streaming through SmartPlay while securing your internet traffic. It can automatically hop between servers for better streaming service on any device, even if access to your favorite shows is geo-locked. It uses NordLynx protocols based on WireGuard with unlimited bandwidth to prevent throttling and strive for better performance. Similarly, ExpressVPN works with all major streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, and ESPN. It offers dedicated streaming by preventing ISP throttling by local internet providers and reduces delay or lag while watching live shows or simply for streaming geo-locked content.  

Also Read:  Best Streaming VPN

Additional Features Comparison

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer split tunneling, which is the ability to choose which content goes through the VPN and which content goes through the internet. This makes it easy to access otherwise blocked websites (like online banking) without disconnecting your VPN each time. Not all VPNs offer this feature.

Additionally, ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer the option to configure your VPN directly onto your router. This is an extra safety measure as it means you will be automatically connected to your VPN when you are using the router. Both VPNs also come with a kill switch, which immediately disconnects your internet connection when your device is not connected to the internet to ensure your privacy is not compromised if the VPN connection drops.

Methodology

NordVPN and ExpressVPN were compared on broad categories, including:

CriteriaExpert’s Take
Standout FeaturesNordVPN has all major VPN features; however, users must provide their email addresses for registration. Express VPN, on the other hand, doesn’t provide server network details.
Ease of UseExpress VPN and NordVPN offer an easy-to-navigate dashboard.
Value for MoneyExpressVPN is considerably more expensive than NordVPN.
TrustworthinessAlthough both VPNs offer top-notch security service, Kape Technologies owns ExpressVPN, which has a shady past, while NordVPN suffered a server breach in 2018.

Bottom Line

If price is your main concern, ExpressVPN is considerably more expensive than NordVPN. Both VPNs offer faster speeds due to their high number of server locations, depending on what country and location you want to connect to through your VPN. Lastly, both VPNs offer a dedicated IP for teams and businesses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How secure are VPNs?

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN provide military-grade AES 256-bit encryption. This is the same security that governments and armed forces around the world use to protect sensitive information. Both VPNs include a kill switch, which automatically disconnects your internet connection when your device isn’t connected to the VPN. NordVPN offers NordLayer, which provides internet privacy for companies and businesses. And with servers privately held on the British Virgin Islands (a country not required to share its data with other countries), ExpressVPN is considered extra secure.

How do I cancel my NordVPN subscription?

You can cancel your subscription at any time by going to your online account and clicking “billing.”

Are there any VPNs that are less expensive than NordVPN and ExpressVPN?

There are actually some free VPNs available, such as Hotspot Shield, though we recommend choosing a paid solution as free VPNs are less secure and come with many advertisements. If budget is an issue, you can find many cheap VPNs to choose from.

Can I be tracked while using a VPN?

Yes, but it depends on your activity and your awareness. A VPN protects active data transfers while you’re online. If you’ve enabled cookies on websites you visit, advertisers can track your activity (but with a VPN, they won’t be able to connect your activity to your IP). Malware is another risk, but a VPN can’t protect you from installing malware.

Why should I use a VPN?

There are plenty of reasons to use a VPN, both at home and at work. In both settings, you may be transmitting sensitive data across the internet (such as financial credentials or client information). You also may be connecting to public Wi-Fi, which can be dangerous if someone else on the network is tech-savvy enough to access your data. A VPN offers an extra layer of security in all of these cases, protecting you and your assets from fraudulent activity.

Is ExpressVPN more affordable than NordVPN?

ExpressVPN is considerably more expensive than NordVPN.

Which is the better-performing VPN: ExpressVPN or NordVPN?

ExpressVPN and NordVPN come with pros and cons, though both offer top-notch security services. Users have recognized ExpressVPN’s speed, performance, and streaming services, while NordVPN was praised for its affordable pricing, ownership transparency and some facing technical issues.

Does ExpressVPN provide more locations than NordVPN?

ExpressVPN has servers located in 105 countries but does not disclose server network details. NordVPN, on the other hand, has an astounding 6,500 servers in 111 countries.

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