NordVPN vs ExpressVPN (2026): Which Premium VPN Is Worth It?
NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the two most recommended VPNs on the market. We compared pricing, speed, streaming, and security features to help you choose between them.
By VPNRanker EditorialUpdated: May 10, 20269 min read✓ Independently Tested
NordVPN and ExpressVPN are consistently ranked among the top VPN services, and both pass rigorous independent security audits. The decision often comes down to price (NordVPN's long-term plans are significantly cheaper) versus ExpressVPN's simplicity and slightly faster average speeds on some routes. We tested both side by side across streaming, torrenting, and everyday browsing.
VPN Comparison
| VPN | Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | ★ 4.8 | View Deal → |
| ExpressVPN | ★ 4.7 | View Deal → |
| Surfshark | ★ 4.6 | View Deal → |
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- NordVPN's 2-year plan costs roughly half of ExpressVPN's equivalent long-term pricing
- ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol is exceptionally easy to set up on routers, smart TVs, and older devices
- NordVPN supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections versus ExpressVPN's 8
- Both providers passed independent no-logs audits and operate RAM-only server infrastructure
- ExpressVPN's 24/7 live chat support consistently received faster response times in our testing
✗ Cons
- ExpressVPN's monthly pricing is among the highest in the industry if you don't commit to a long plan
- NordVPN's app interface includes more advanced settings, which can feel overwhelming for first-time users
- ExpressVPN's split-tunneling is not available on iOS, while NordVPN supports it on Android only
- Both providers' free trial offerings are limited or unavailable in most regions
- Neither provider includes a standalone ad blocker in the most basic plan tiers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NordVPN faster than ExpressVPN?▾
In our most recent speed tests, both providers delivered very similar real-world speeds on local and international servers, with NordVPN's NordLynx protocol and ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol both based on WireGuard. Differences are typically within a few percent and vary by server location.
Which is cheaper, NordVPN or ExpressVPN?▾
NordVPN is generally cheaper, especially on long-term plans — its 2-year plan costs around $3.09/month compared to ExpressVPN's roughly $6.67/month for a 12-month plan. ExpressVPN's monthly price without a long-term commitment is also higher.
Which is better for streaming, NordVPN or ExpressVPN?▾
Both reliably unblock major streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer in our testing. NordVPN offers more total server locations, while ExpressVPN's MediaStreamer feature adds support for devices that can't run a VPN app directly.
Can I use NordVPN or ExpressVPN on a router?▾
ExpressVPN offers its own pre-configured router (Aircove), making router setup notably simpler. NordVPN supports router installation via OpenVPN or WireGuard configuration but requires more manual setup on most routers.
Our Top Pick
Get NordVPN — Our Top Value Pick
NordVPN delivers premium features at a fraction of the long-term cost of ExpressVPN.
Try NordVPN Risk-Free →* Affiliate link. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.