NordVPN vs ExpressVPN Comparison

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Like you, I’ve lost count of how many VPNs exist right now. The fact that many of them offer similar features, plans, and benefits makes choosing the right VPN even harder. If you need to choose between NordVPN vs ExpressVPN, this article will save you a lot of time (and possibly money).

Winner
 
4.8
4.6
From $3.99/month
From $6.67/month

🖥️ Servers: 5500+ servers in 60 countries

📖 No logs policy: No logs (audited)

🔒 VPN protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard (NordLynx)

🍿 Streaming services: Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, + many more

🖥️ Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox

📥 Connections: 6 on unlimited devices

💁🏻 Support: Email, 24/7 live chat, knowledgebase, FAQs

🖥️ Servers: 3000+ servers in 94 countries

📖 No logs policy: No logs (audited)

🔒 VPN protocols: Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec

🍿 Streaming services: Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer + many more

🖥️ Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox

📥 Connections: 5 on unlimited devices

💁🏻 Support: 24/7 live chat, email, knowledgebase, FAQs

Winner
4.8
From $3.99/month

🖥️ Servers: 5500+ servers in 60 countries

📖 No logs policy: No logs (audited)

🔒 VPN protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard (NordLynx)

🍿 Streaming services: Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, + many more

🖥️ Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox

📥 Connections: 6 on unlimited devices

💁🏻 Support: Email, 24/7 live chat, knowledgebase, FAQs

4.6
From $6.67/month

🖥️ Servers: 3000+ servers in 94 countries

📖 No logs policy: No logs (audited)

🔒 VPN protocols: Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec

🍿 Streaming services: Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer + many more

🖥️ Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox

📥 Connections: 5 on unlimited devices

💁🏻 Support: 24/7 live chat, email, knowledgebase, FAQs

ExpressVPN is faster and offers a more enjoyable internet experience than NordVPN. However, NordVPN provides better security, privacy, and pricing.

So, if you need a high-end VPN for your streaming and gaming, sign up and try the ExpressVPN service.

If you want maximum security and privacy, with more affordable subscription plans, sign up and try NordVPN.

Key Takeaways:

NordVPN and ExpressVPN are both highly-rated VPN providers, with comparable pricing plans and a variety of features to ensure user privacy and security.

NordVPN is a faster and more feature-rich VPN provider than ExpressVPN. NordVPN is better at streaming and torrenting than ExpressVPN.

While NordVPN is the winner of the comparison, ExpressVPN is still a reliable and well-regarded VPN service, with completed audits by KPMG and Cure53, and a coupon available for three months free.

Main Features – Speed, Server Locations, and More

Don’t have time to read through it all? Here’s a quick summary to help you make a decision right away:

NordVPNExpressVPN
SpeedDownload: 38mbps – 45mbps
Upload: 5mbps – 6mbps
Ping: 5ms – 40ms
Download: 54mbps – 65mbps
Upload: 4mbps – 6mbps
Ping: 7ms – 70ms
StabilitystableSlightly less stable
CompatibilityApps for: Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android

Extensions for: Chrome,  Edge, Firefox
Apps for: Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, routers, Chromebook, Amazon Fire

Extensions for: Chrome,  Edge, Firefox

Limited services for:
●  smart TVs (Apple, Android, Chromecast, Firestick, Roku)
●  gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo)
ConnectivityMax. of 6 devicesMax. of 5 devices
Data CapsUnlimitedUnlimited
No. of Locations60 countries94 countries
User InterfaceEasy to useExtremely easy to use

After spending time with both NordVPN and ExpressVPN, I took note of how their key features performed.

NordVPN

nordvpn features

Speed

Because every device’s internet speed is slower with an active VPN connection than without one, you can only hope that your chosen VPN doesn’t ruin your browsing experience.

So, I tested NordVPN for speed. Thankfully, I only noticed a slight drop when I connected to the VPN server. To be sure, I ran more tests using different servers, locations, and protocols. Here’re the results:

●  Download speed: 38mbps – 45mbps

●  Upload speed: 5mbps – 6mbps

●  Ping speed: 5ms – 40ms

Download speed is a big deal for me and most avid internet users, hence, I was pleased to see that NordVPN allowed me to play high-end games and stream 4k videos with almost no hitch. The speed of uploading wasn’t bad either.

Although I don’t own many IoT devices, I found that NordVPN’s download and upload speeds were more than suitable to run IoT devices in a smart home.

From experience, I know that when it comes to ping, the lower, the better. And anything below 50ms is great. Throughout my tests with NordVPN, my ping never went higher than 40ms.

Stability

Stability in VPNs indicates how well the service maintains connections on single or multiple devices without dropping. It also represents the ability of the VPN to maintain its highest speed throughout a session.

I did a little research before I tried NordVPN, just to see potential problems users were experiencing. Stability was one of the major issues, apparently. However, my tests showed that the developers have fixed the issues plaguing their software’s stability.

There were a few drops in speed here and there, but nothing too severe, and I enjoyed a stable connection every time I used the software on any of my devices.

Compatibility

NordVPN has apps that worked with my iOS (App Store), Android (Google Play Store), and macOS devices. From the company’s website, you can find apps compatible with Windows and Linux.

nordvpn devices

For browsers, NordVPN currently provides extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. With all these supported devices, I believe the service has good compatibility with common gadgets, but doesn’t go the extra mile like ExpressVPN.

Overall, both VPNs offer apps for a variety of operating systems and have browser extensions as well. NordVPN also has the advantage of offering access to RAM servers, which are even more secure than regular servers, and this made the connection timestamps and server speeds significantly faster.

Connectivity

I always say that paid VPN options shouldn’t restrict how many devices subscribers can use on their accounts. Unfortunately, the reality is that many VPN providers do. NordVPN is one of them, and it only allows subscribers to connect a maximum of 6 devices per account.

Data Caps

Of course, I also believe paying subscribers shouldn’t have a limit to how much data they can consume under the protection of their VPNs. Thankfully, the majority of VPNs agree with me, including NordVPN. There are no data limitations to your account during your subscription period.

Server Locations

Having a VPN with obfuscated servers in dozens of locations gives you access to content that would otherwise be unavailable to you. The number of servers per location also affects speed, stability, and user experience.

NordVPN’s server count is impressive, with over 5,000 servers in more than 50 countries, including numerous locations in the United States.

nordvpn servers

NordVPN has 3200+ VPN servers in 65+ countries, which is pretty decent.

Interface

The apps and extensions are well-designed and everything seems to be in place. Although I’m tech-savvy, regular software users should have no problems as NordVPN is easy to use.

ExpressVPN

express vpn features

Speed

NordVPN has built a reputation of being one of the fastest in the industry. Hence, I was pleasantly surprised to find that ExpressVPN goes toe-to-toe with it in this aspect, even surpassing it.

Here’s the summary of the data I got from my ExpressVPN speed tests:

●  Download Speed: 54mbps – 65mbps

●  Upload Speed: 4mbps – 6mbps

●  Ping: 7ms – 70ms

The best part of these results is the download speed. I seamlessly played the most demanding online games and streamed 4k videos.

It didn’t work too well when I tried to use it for live streaming, though. I wasn’t too surprised because the speed of upload is less than the recommended 10mps.

As for ping, ExpressVPN could do much better to reduce the upper limit of their current range.

A quick tip: If you want to reach the best speed on ExpressVPN, run the Lightway VPN protocol. You’ll thank me later.

Stability

After several days of testing, I realized that ExpressVPN is slightly less stable than NordVPN. The speed hardly fluctuated but the VPN server connection did drop a few times, particularly when I put my laptop on sleep mode.

Compatibility

After doing some research on the ExpressVPN website, I found that their apps are downloadable on a wide variety of systems. There is an ExpressVPN app for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android. Also, they have software that you can install directly on your router, Chromebook, and Amazon Fire.

expressvpn devices

Having dedicated firmware for my router was a breath of fresh air. I didn’t have to go through a complicated setup to connect my router to ExpressVPN.

I did try the MediaStreamer option on my Android smartTV. With it, I was able to unlock Netflix content on my smartTV even without connecting directly to the VPN. Unfortunately, doing this increased the number of connected devices on my account.

You can also use MediaStreamer on your gaming consoles.

Connectivity

If I was annoyed at NordVPN for restricting accounts to 6 devices max., ExpressVPN did not help matters. The service only allows a maximum of 5 devices per account.

Data Caps

There are no data limitations with ExpressVPN. You can use unlimited bandwidth and data on any subscription plan.

Server Locations

ExpressVPN has 3000+ VPN servers in 94 countries. Although I’ve seen VPNs on a larger server network, very few offer as many as 94 countries to choose from – not even NordVPN.

Overall, both VPN providers have servers in multiple locations worldwide, giving users plenty of options for accessing content and protecting their online activity.

However, ExpressVPN does have some unique server features, such as a server list that displays the current number of users connected to each server, providing useful information for users looking for the fastest connection speeds.

All in all, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer solid options for their users in terms of server and connection speed.

Interface

The interface was spectacularly simple. Anyone can navigate it. I found nearly all the ExpressVPN apps extremely easy to use.

🏆 Winner is: ExpressVPN

With faster speed, more locations, better compatibility, and an easier interface, ExpressVPN beats NordVPN soundly in this round.

Security & Privacy – Encryption of VPN Servers, VPN Industry Policies, and More

When it comes to VPN features and protocols, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer a variety of advanced options to ensure maximum security for their users. NordVPN features include a split tunneling feature and a kill switch, as well as a variety of tunneling protocols and P2P servers for faster and more efficient file sharing.

 NordVPNExpressVPN
Encryption TechnologyAES standard – Double Encryption

Protocols: IKEv2/IPsec, OpenVPN, NordLynx
AES standard – Traffic Mixing

Protocols: Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and IKEv2
No-Log PolicyNearly 100%Not 100% – logs the following: 

Personal Data: email address, payment info, and order history

Anonymous Data: App versions used, server locations used, connection dates, amount of data used, crash reports, and connection diagnostics 
IP MaskingYesYes
Kill SwitchSystem-wide and selectiveSystem-wide
Ad-blockerBrowsers onlyNone
Malware ProtectionWebsites and filesNone

ExpressVPN offers similarly robust security features, such as a built-in kill switch and DNS leak protection, as well as smart DNS for easy access to content from various regions. Additionally, both VPN providers offer high-end encryption standards and secure server networks to keep online activity private and safe.

expressvpn private dns

Overall, NordVPN and ExpressVPN are clearly dedicated to keeping their users’ data safe and secure.

Security and privacy in a VPN are just as important as any other benefit. People like me download such apps to feel more secure about their data and internet connection.

NordVPN

Nordvpn Encryption and security

Encryption Technology

Before I reveal details of NordVPN’s encryption, let’s see the basic VPN encryption roadmap:

●  You connect your VPN

●  The software creates an encrypted tunnel

●  Your data goes through this tunnel

●  Only your VPN servers can make sense of the encryption, and no other party (even your internet service provider)

NordVPN has AES 256-bit standard encryption technology, which is the highest level of internet security. It is also military-grade encryption. They took this a step further by offering a feature called Double VPN. It reroutes your traffic to a second specialized server before sending it to its original destination. Hence, a NordVPN server gives you twice the encryption.

Minor issue:

The Double VPN option was only automatically available to me on the Android app. For iOS, I had to switch to the OpenVPN protocol to see it.

No-Log Policy

With VPNs, no logs policies are tricky. They say they don’t keep logs of personal data, but that’s easier said than done. Usually, carefully reading their privacy policies will reveal that they indeed log some of your data.

It’s impossible for us to test no-log policies directly, and VPN platforms know this. The sincere ones submit to third-party security and privacy audits regularly.

I did some deep research into NordVPN and found that their nearly 100% log-less claim has some truth to it. They are a Panama-based company, and as such, don’t have the same strict data retention laws as other VPNs (such as ExpressVPN in British Virgin Island).

nordvpn no log

Also, they have submitted two audits by PricewaterhouseCoopers AG (PwC) – both coming out favorable.

So, my verdict is that they truly do NOT log user information except email and username.

IP Masking

IP masking is a basic VPN feature that you should be entitled to when you pay. NordVPN hides the real IP address for all connected users.

Kill Switch

In case you don’t know, it is a VPN option that cuts off internet activity when your VPN connection drops. This feature keeps your devices from having risky moments of vulnerability.

NordVPN has a kill switch that offers both system-wide and selective options. Choosing the system-wide switch will cut off your entire device and its apps from internet access.

But with selection, you can choose which apps maintain access to the internet when your device loses a connection of VPN. The selective switch helped me keep my mobile bank app running, even when I lost my connection.

Threat Protection

NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature is an ad and malware blocker. I tried it on my browsers and didn’t receive ads while it was on, which was a refreshing change for me.

To test its malware protection, I intentionally visited some sketchy sites and tried to download their content (yes, I did this for you, but I don’t recommend it). Threat Protection kicked in with a crucial warning both times.

ExpressVPN

Expressvpn Encryption and security

Encryption Technology

ExpressVPN also has AES 256-bit standard encryption tech. As an extra layer of security, they mix your traffic with that of other users in their specialty servers so even the VPN providers can’t tell which data is yours.

No-Log Policy

expressvpn no log

Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN says they don’t keep logs of sensitive user information. I did some digging to see if their claims were true. It turns out they’re pretty open about what they log into their privacy policy.

They keep:

●  Personal Data: email, payment info, and order history

●  Anonymous Data: App versions used, server locations used, connection dates, amount of data used, crash reports, and connection diagnostics

According to Techradar, ExpressVPN recently underwent an audit by PwC. So, you can trust their claims.

IP Masking

ExpressVPN help to hide the IP address of all subscribers when connected.

expressvpn ip masking

Kill Switch

The service offers Network Lock, which is a system-wide kill switch. The few times my VPN connection flickered, I couldn’t access the internet until it was back on.

Ad-blocker and Malware Protection

ExpressVPN does not have an ad blocker. I tried to find one in their software, but couldn’t. Also, they have no malware protection feature.

🏆 Winner is: NordVPN

NordVPN is a clear winner in this round, all thanks to their nearly 100% no logs policy, selective kill switch, and ad/malware blockers.

Plans & Pricing

 NordVPNExpressVPN
Free PlanNoNo
Subscription DurationsOne Month, One Year, Two YearsOne Month, Six Months, One Year
Cheapest Plan$3.99/month$6.67/month
Most Expensive Monthly Plan$12.99/month$12.95/month
Best Deal$107.73 for TWO years (51% savings)$99.84 for ONE year (save 35%)
Best Discounts15% student, apprentice, 18 to 26-year-old discounts12-Month Paid Plan + 3 Free Months
Refund Policy30 days30 days

Next, I’ll let you know how much I spent on both ExpressVPN and NordVPN.

NordVPN

nordvpn pricing

They have three pricing plans:

  • 1 Month at $12.99/month
  • 12 Months at $4.59/month
  • 24 Months at $3.99/month

I chose to save 51% by purchasing the 24-month plan. NordVPN also has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For discounts, I found only one. It was a 15% discount strictly for students, apprentices, and 18 to 26-year-olds.

ExpressVPN

expressvpn pricing

The service also offers three pricing plans:

  • 1 Month at $12.95/month
  • 12 Months at $6.67/month
  • 24 Months at $8.32/month

I would have picked the 12-month plan directly from their pricing page to save 35%. But thankfully, I checked for discounts first…

My search uncovered one discount offer. They offered a coupon that gave me an extra 3 free months when I purchased the 12-month plan. It was a limited offer, but you can check the ExpressVPN coupons page to see if it’s still on.

🏆 Winner is: NordVPN

Despite the coupon, ExpressVPN is way more expensive than NordVPN. Hence, NordVPN wins the affordability round.

NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: Customer Support

 NordVPNExpressVPN
Live ChatAvailableAvailable
EmailAvailableAvailable
Phone SupportNoneNone
FAQAvailableAvailable
TutorialsAvailableAvailable
Support Team QualityGoodExcellent

I’ll relay my personal experience with both VPNs’ support facilities, along with the experience of others.

NordVPN

nordvpn support

The NordVPN site offers 24/7 live chat support and email assistance, which I found very helpful when navigating my router settings. The live agents responded within 30 minutes and 24 hours respectively.

However, I can’t take my experience as typical. So, I went over to Trustpilot to see NordVPN’s latest customer service and support reviews. Of 20 reviews, I found 5 bad, 1 average, and 14 excellent. From this, I can tell that generally, NordVPN’s customer support is good but not excellent.

I also found several helpful FAQs and tutorials on the site, but no phone support.

ExpressVPN

expressvpn support

The ExpressVPN website also offered 24/7 live chat support and email assistance, and their agents had about the same response times as NordVPN. The site also had FAQ sections and VPN tutorials, but no phone support.

When I checked their customer support reviews on Trustpilot, I discovered something fascinating. Of 20 reviews, 19 were excellent and 1 was average – not a single bad review. It’s safe to say ExpressVPN offers excellent customer support.

🏆 Winner is: ExpressVPN

From public sentiments, they clearly have a better support team.

Freebies & Extras

 NordVPNExpressVPN
Split TunnelingYesYes
Connected DevicesRouterRouter app and MediaStreamer
Unlockable Streaming Platforms20+ services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Hulu20+ services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Hulu
Dedicated IPYes (paid option)No

These are premium VPN services, so it’s only fair that they come with some extra perks. Here’s how they performed in this aspect.

NordVPN

Sometimes you need certain apps (e.g bank apps, workspace apps, etc.) to function without VPN protection, even when connected. This is where split tunneling comes into play. NordVPN offers split tunneling for every device.

The service also unlocks streaming services. I used it on 20+ platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Hulu.

Also, I connected the VPN to my router using this NordVPN post. I was able to use my Playstation with a VPN thanks to this feature.

NordVPN also offers an extra service called Dedicated IP, which gives you your own IP address in any country. If your worksite only allows you to use a specific IP, then you should try it. Although it costs an extra $70/year to get, I like that such an option is available to subscribers who need it.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN also offers split tunneling.  I tried it on 20+ streaming sites, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Hulu. They all worked seamlessly.

You can connect devices through the router app or MediaStreamer. Both are easy to set up, but the app was much better because it allowed me to connect an unlimited number of devices to my router’s VPN and bypass the 5 max. rule.

🏆 Winner is: NordVPN

Split tunneling is nice, but having a dedicated IP address can be priceless in the right situation. Hence, NordVPN offers a better add-on.

Still confused? you can check our Nordvpn and Expressvpn alternative guides to choose a better option.

Common Questions Answered

Is ExpressVPN better than NordVPN?

NordVPN is a better VPN option than ExpressVPN. NordVPN has decent features while offering better security, privacy, and affordability.

Learn more in my NordVPN review here and my ExpressVPN review here.

Which is cheaper, NordVPN or ExpressVPN?

NordVPN is cheaper than ExpressVPN because its cheapest plan, $3.99/month, is lower than that of ExpressVPN, which is $6.67/month.

How do NordVPN and ExpressVPN compare in terms of payment and pricing options?

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer competitive plans, with a variety of subscription options available depending on individual needs. NordVPN’s pricing plans offer value for money, and it accepts a wide variety of payment options, including major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, as well as PayPal, cryptocurrency, and other regional payment methods.

ExpressVPN similarly offers different subscription plans at varying price points, and users can choose from a range of payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal. Both VPNn also have affiliate programs with discount coupons available for users who refer others to the service.

However, it’s worth noting that the subscription price of both VPN providers can be higher when compared to other VPN companies, but the added features are worth it. Overall, both providers offer flexible payment options and competitive pricing, making them accessible to a wide range of users.

Why is ExpressVPN more expensive than NordVPN?

ExpressVPN is more expensive than NordVPN because it offers more speed, locations, and supported devices.

Can NordVPN and ExpressVPN be used for streaming platforms, and which VPN provider has better app compatibility?

NordVPN and ExpressVPN are both excellent choices for streaming content, with their servers placed all around the globe to give users maximum access to a variety of sites.

Both VPNs support popular platforms like Prime Video, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer, and they also offer VPN apps for various operating systems, including desktop apps and browser extensions.

NordVPN has the added advantage of including a feature called SmartPlay that enables compatible devices to bypass geo-restrictions on popular streaming platforms automatically. However, despite NordVPN’s impressive SmartPlay feature, ExpressVPN has an incredibly user-friendly interface and is compatible with most devices, including routers with browser extensions for added convenience.

Ultimately, the choice between ExpressVPN vs NordVPN would depend on individual needs for app compatibility, but both VPN providers are excellent streaming options.

Which VPN is better for Netflix between NordVPN vs ExpressVPN?

ExpressVPN works better for streaming on Netflix because it is a faster VPN. It also covers more server locations than NordVPN.

How does NordVPN compare to ExpressVPN in terms of privacy and security features?

In terms of online privacy and security features, NordVPN and ExpressVPN are both strong choices. Both VPN providers offer DNS leak protection, IP address masking, and strong encryption standards to ensure user privacy.

NordVPN has the added benefit of a comprehensive security suite called NordVPN’s CyberSec feature which includes a threat manager, a dark web monitor, and a data breach alert feature that all work together to provide exceptional online security.

Meanwhile, ExpressVPN also maintains a strict no-logs policy and is based in Hong Kong, which has more privacy-friendly laws than many other countries. While the two providers have different approaches to security, they are both effective at enabling geo-restricted content access and protecting your internet traffic.

Ultimately, both virtual private networks will shield your online activity from prying eyes and prevent breaches of sensitive user data.

How do NordVPN and ExpressVPN compare in terms of speed test results and download scanner features?

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN boast impressive speed test results and fast download speeds on average. NordVPN has a larger server network, which can sometimes result in more connection options, and it also features a unique NordLynx protocol that NordVPN claims delivers faster speeds than other protocols.

ExpressVPN has a smaller server network than NordVPN, but the provider makes up for it with its MediaStreamer and Lightway protocols for better streaming and faster connection. Additionally, both providers offer a download scanner, which automatically scans for malware and other unsafe files during downloads to ensure maximum protection.

Overall, based on speed comparison tests and features, both Nord VPN and Express VPN perform well, giving users fast and secure simultaneous connections for all their online activities.

How do NordVPN and ExpressVPN compare in terms of customer support and knowledge base resources?

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer robust customer support options, including live chat and email support available 24/7. They also prioritize transparency with an online knowledge base full of helpful articles and a support center for self-help with common issues.

While both providers offer similar customer support resources, NordVPN has an edge with its 24/7 support center, providing users with real-time assistance when they need it. ExpressVPN, on the other hand, offers remote desktop support for all customers who require additional assistance.

Overall, both companies are committed to providing excellent customer support, making them great choices for users looking for a VPN provider that prioritizes accessibility and user support.

Our Verdict ⭐

Although both VPNs are fantastic, for the sake of the ExpressVPN vs NordVPN debate, you need to know which is better. Well, NordVPN is a better VPN in my opinion. It surpasses ExpressVPN in terms of security and privacy.

NordVPN - Get The World's Leading VPN Now
From $3.99/month

NordVPN provides you with the privacy, safety, freedom, and speed you deserve online. Unleash your browsing, torrenting, and streaming potential with unparalleled access to a world of content, no matter where you are.

Equally important are the affordable plans that NordVPN offers because ExpressVPN is a lot more expensive (nearly $100 per year). However, I can’t deny that ExpressVPN has unrivaled performance.

ExpressVPN - Superior VPN That Just Works!
From $6.67/month

With ExpressVPN, you're not just signing up for a service; you're embracing the liberty of the free internet the way it was meant to be. Access the web without borders, where you can stream, download, torrent, and browse at lightning-fast speeds, while staying anonymous and securing your online privacy.

If you’re looking for a cheap and highly-secure VPN with great performance features, try NordVPN. And if you don’t mind the cost because you need a VPN that’s ideal for gaming and streaming, you should try ExpressVPN.

Both services offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you have nothing to lose!

Recent Improvements & Updates

ExpressVPN and NordVPN constantly update their VPN with additional, better, and more secure features to help users maintain their online privacy and internet security. Here are some of the most recent improvements (as of March 2024):

ExpressVPN Updates

  • Ad Blocker Feature: ExpressVPN now offers an ad blocker to reduce the number of intrusive display ads when browsing. This feature not only cuts down on annoying ads but also improves page loading times and saves data. For enhanced protection, it’s recommended to use this alongside the Threat Manager, which also blocks trackers from advertisers.
  • Adult-Site Blocker: A new feature has been added to help users control access to explicit content. This adult-site blocker is part of the advanced protection suite, using open-source blocklists that are regularly updated to keep up with new threats.
  • Expanded Server Network to 105 Countries: ExpressVPN has increased its server locations from 94 to 105 countries, offering users more IP addresses and server options. New locations include Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Cuba, and others, all equipped with modern 10-Gbps servers for fast, reliable connections.
  • Increase in Simultaneous Connections: Users can now connect up to eight devices simultaneously on a single subscription, increased from the previous limit of five. This is in response to the growing number of connected devices per user.
  • Automatic App Updates: ExpressVPN’s desktop apps now feature automatic updates, ensuring users always have the latest features and security enhancements without needing manual updates.
  • Launch of ExpressVPN Aircove: In September last year, ExpressVPN introduced Aircove, the world’s first Wi-Fi 6 router with built-in VPN, marking their entry into hardware products.
  • Apple TV App and Improved Android TV App: ExpressVPN has launched a new app for Apple TV and enhanced the Android TV app experience. These apps include features like dark mode, QR code sign-in, and access to servers in 105 countries.
  • Built-in Password Manager – Keys: ExpressVPN has integrated a full-featured password manager called Keys into their VPN service. It generates, stores, and autofills passwords across devices, including browsers. Keys also offer Password Health ratings and data breach monitoring.
  • Faster Speeds with 10Gbps Servers: The introduction of new 10Gbps servers means more bandwidth, allowing for less congestion and potentially faster download speeds. Early tests show significant improvements in speed for some users.

NordVPN Updates

  • Meshnet for Seamless File Sharing: NordVPN has enhanced its Meshnet feature, making file transfers between devices like mobile phones and laptops seamless and secure. This feature ensures high-quality transfers without third-party servers and with end-to-end encryption. NordVPN also plans to introduce kernel-to-kernel connections for even faster peer-to-peer transfer speeds.
  • Commitment to Open Source: NordVPN is embracing the open-source community by making significant components of its software open-source. This includes Libtelio, their core networking library, Libdrop for file sharing over Meshnet, and the entire Linux application. This move towards transparency and community contribution marks a significant step for NordVPN.
  • Meshnet Now Free: In a major update, NordVPN has made Meshnet a free feature. This allows users to share files, host servers, and route traffic without needing a VPN subscription. The free version supports connecting up to 10 personal devices and up to 50 external devices.
  • NordVPN for tvOS: NordVPN has introduced an app for tvOS, making it easier to secure connections on Apple TV. This app supports tvOS 17 and offers secure streaming and online activity shielding.
  • App Vulnerability Detection Feature: In collaboration with Threat Protection, NordVPN now includes a feature that detects software vulnerabilities on Windows computers. This tool notifies users of security flaws in programs, enhancing overall cybersecurity.
  • Threat Protection Guide: NordVPN’s Threat Protection is an advanced tool that offers more than just VPN services. It blocks trackers, ads, and malicious sites, and checks downloads for malware. This feature is available for free with a NordVPN subscription or as a separate product.
  • Diverse VPN Protocols: NordVPN continues to use three different security protocols – OpenVPN, NordLynx, and IKEv2/IPsec. These protocols ensure secure and efficient data transmission to VPN servers.

How We Review VPNs: Our Methodology

In our mission to find and recommend the best VPN services, we follow a detailed and rigorous review process. Here’s what we focus on to ensure we provide the most reliable and relevant insights:

  1. Features and Unique Qualities: We explore each VPN’s features, asking: What does the provider offer? What sets it apart from others, such as proprietary encryption protocols or ad and malware blocking?
  2. Unblocking and Global Reach: We assess the VPN’s ability to unblock sites and streaming services and explore its global presence by asking: How many countries does the provider operate in? How many servers does it have?
  3. Platform Support and User Experience: We examine the supported platforms and the ease of the sign-up and setup process. Questions include: What platforms does the VPN support? How straightforward is the user experience from start to finish?
  4. Performance Metrics: Speed is key for streaming and torrenting. We check the connection, upload, and download speeds and encourage users to verify these on our VPN speed test page.
  5. Security and Privacy: We delve into the technical security and privacy policy of each VPN. Questions include: What encryption protocols are used, and how secure are they? Can you trust the provider’s privacy policy?
  6. Customer Support Evaluation: Understanding the quality of customer service is crucial. We ask: How responsive and knowledgeable is the customer support team? Do they genuinely assist, or just push sales?
  7. Pricing, Trials, and Value for Money: We consider the cost, available payment options, free plans/trials, and money-back guarantees. We ask: Is the VPN worth its price compared to what’s available in the market?
  8. Additional Considerations: We also look at self-service options for users, such as knowledge bases and setup guides, and the ease of cancellation.

Learn more about our review methodology.

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Mathias Ahlgren is the CEO and founder of Website Rating, steering a global team of editors and writers. He holds a master's in information science and management. His career pivoted to SEO after early web development experiences during university. With over 15 years in SEO, digital marketing, and web developmens. His focus also includes website security, evidenced by a certificate in Cyber Security. This diverse expertise underpins his leadership at Website Rating.

The "WSR Team" is the collective group of expert editors and writers specializing in technology, internet security, digital marketing, and web development. Passionate about the digital realm, they produce well-researched, insightful, and accessible content. Their commitment to accuracy and clarity makes Website Rating a trusted resource for staying informed in the dynamic digital world.

Nathan House

Nathan has a remarkable 25 years in cybersecurity industry and he contributes his vast knowledge to Website Rating as a contributing expert writer. His focus encompasses a wide range of topics including cybersecurity, VPNs, password managers, and antivirus and antimalware solutions, offering readers expert insights into these essential areas of digital security.

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