NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
Last updated 1 September 2025. We pit NordVPN against ExpressVPN across speed, streaming, security, price and ease of use.
NordVPN
4.9NordVPN is our top pick for UK users in 2025. It pairs class-leading speeds with rock-solid security and unblocks every major UK streaming service we tested, all backed by an independently audited no-logs policy.
Read full NordVPN reviewExpressVPN
4.8ExpressVPN is the most user-friendly VPN we have tested. If you want something that simply works — fast, secure and effortless on any device — it is well worth the premium price.
Read full ExpressVPN reviewSpecs head-to-head
| Provider | NordVPN | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 4.9 | 4.8 |
| Best for | Best overall VPN | Best for beginners |
| From (per month) | £2.99 | £4.49 |
| Servers | 7,100 | 3,000 |
| Countries | 118 | 105 |
| Devices | 10 | 8 |
| Money-back | 30 days | 30 days |
| Jurisdiction | Panama | British Virgin Islands |
| UK streaming | ||
| Get Deal | Get Deal |
The verdict
Both are premium, top-tier VPNs, so you cannot go far wrong. NordVPN offers more features — Threat Protection, Double VPN, more connections — and works out cheaper, which is why it takes our overall crown.
ExpressVPN fights back with the most polished, beginner-friendly apps in the business and superb reliability. If simplicity is everything to you, it justifies its higher price.
Our verdict: NordVPN for value and features; ExpressVPN if you want the most effortless experience and don't mind paying for it.
Overall winner: NordVPN
NordVPN: pros & cons
Pros
- Blazing-fast NordLynx (WireGuard) protocol
- Reliably unblocks BBC iPlayer, Netflix UK and Disney+
- Independently audited no-logs policy
- Threat Protection blocks ads, trackers and malware
Cons
- Monthly plan is pricey
- Desktop app interface takes getting used to
ExpressVPN: pros & cons
Pros
- Beautifully simple apps on every platform
- Lightway protocol is fast and stable
- TrustedServer RAM-only infrastructure
- Excellent 24/7 customer support
Cons
- More expensive than rivals
- Only 8 simultaneous connections