NordVPN and ExpressVPN are both paid VPN services, but they differ in their server network, protocols, and plans. NordVPN offers a larger network and dedicated solutions for restricted networks, while ExpressVPN develops its own Lightway protocol and lets you increase the number of connections on higher-tier plans.
On their basic plans, both VPNs support up to 10 connections, so when choosing it's more important to compare server geography, price, and connection technology.
NordVPN and ExpressVPN in Numbers
| Parameter | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Long-term price | Basic — $3.49/mo for the first 27 months | Basic — $2.99/mo for the first 28 months |
| Trial / refund | 3 days on Android via Google Play; 30-day refund | 3 days on iOS and Android; 30-day refund |
| Network | 8400+ servers, 167+ countries, 224+ locations | 113 countries, 214 locations; server count not published |
| Connections | Up to 10 | Basic — 10; Premium — 12; Express Pro — 14 |
| Protocols | NordLynx, NordWhisper, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec | Lightway, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2; availability depends on the platform |
| Features | Double VPN, Meshnet, hidden servers | Lightway, ad and dangerous-site blocking; more services on higher-tier plans |
The data and prices were verified in September 2026 against the official NordVPN and ExpressVPN websites and may change.
NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: Servers and Locations
NordVPN claims 8400+ servers across 167+ countries and 224+ locations. ExpressVPN operates in 113 countries and offers 214 selectable server locations but doesn't publish the total number of servers.
According to published data, NordVPN's geography is currently slightly broader. At the same time, countries, locations, and individual servers are different metrics: there can be several connection points within a single country.
NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: Price and Devices
On the current long-term offer, ExpressVPN Basic is cheaper: $2.99 per month for the first 28 months versus $3.49 for NordVPN Basic for the first 27 months.
On their basic plans, both services support up to 10 simultaneous connections. With ExpressVPN, the limit rises to 12 on Premium and 14 on Express Pro.
NordWhisper and Lightway: How the Protocols Differ
NordVPN uses NordLynx for regular connections, while NordWhisper is designed for networks where VPN traffic is throttled or blocked. The updated Obfuscated Servers also run on NordWhisper.
ExpressVPN develops its own Lightway and supports WireGuard. In both implementations, the service uses post-quantum protection.
NordVPN places particular emphasis on working in restricted networks, ExpressVPN on its own Lightway architecture.
NordVPN and ExpressVPN: Privacy and No-Logs
Both services claim no-logs and use RAM-based servers.
In 2025, NordVPN passed its sixth independent no-logs audit, conducted by Deloitte. The same year, KPMG audited TrustedServer and ExpressVPN's no-logs claims.
Which to Choose: NordVPN or ExpressVPN?
NordVPN is worth considering if broader server geography, NordWhisper, Meshnet, and specialized server modes matter to you.
ExpressVPN is a good fit if you care about the lower current price of the long-term Basic, Lightway, or the ability to raise the limit to 12–14 connections on higher-tier plans.
Need an Alternative to NordVPN or ExpressVPN?
Neither NordVPN nor ExpressVPN has a permanent free plan. If you want to try a full-featured VPN without payment or a bank card, you can consider VolnaLink.
VolnaLink provides 8 hours of full access without a bank card, locations in 100+ countries, and apps for the major platforms. In that time you can select the country you need, test the VPN with your usual sites and apps, and only then decide whether you need a subscription.
See also: NordVPN vs Proton VPN · Proton VPN vs ExpressVPN · NordVPN vs CyberGhost · NordVPN vs Surfshark · Surfshark vs ExpressVPN · Surfshark vs Proton VPN · Surfshark vs CyberGhost · Proton VPN vs Mullvad