NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between NordVPN and ExpressVPN comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
NordVPN
Online VPN service for privacy
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • VPN service with 7,200+ servers, NordLynx protocol, and Threat Protection malware blocking.
- • Features AES-256 encryption, no-logs policy, and support for 10 simultaneous devices.
ExpressVPN
Premium VPN service
Best for you if:
- • Premium VPN with 3,000+ servers, Lightway protocol, and post-quantum encryption.
- • Features split tunneling, kill switch, and reliable streaming service unblocking.
| At a Glance |  NordVPN |  ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Encryption | Encryption |
Rating | 88/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | EncryptionVPN | EncryptionVPN |
How NordVPN and ExpressVPN Compare
NordVPN
Online VPN service for privacy
Paid · 88/100 score
ExpressVPN
Premium VPN service
Paid · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: NordVPN
Want the highest-rated option?
NordVPN: 88/100. ExpressVPN: 80/100.
Go with: NordVPN
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: NordVPN
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are encryption tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
NordVPN scores higher: 88/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
NordVPN
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 80
- Our pick for this comparison
ExpressVPN
The Bottom Line
NordVPN (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NordVPN or ExpressVPN better?
NordVPN scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are NordVPN and ExpressVPN used for?
NordVPN: Online VPN service for privacy. ExpressVPN: Premium VPN service.
What does NordVPN cost vs ExpressVPN?
NordVPN is a paid tool. ExpressVPN is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.