ExpressVPN vs NordVPN: which VPN wins in 2026?
We tested ExpressVPN and NordVPN head-to-head on every criterion in our vpn methodology. Here's the verdict.
Verdict
Neck and neck
Based on 6 vpn criteria: ExpressVPN wins 1, NordVPN wins 1, 4 tied.
ExpressVPN
1
criteria won
NordVPN
1
criteria won
Feature-by-feature
| Criterion | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Published audits | 23 | 6 | ExpressVPN |
| Most recent audit (year) | 2025 | 2025 | โ |
| Eyes status | BVI (none) | Panama (none) | โ |
| 2-year price ($/mo) | $3.49 | $3.39 | NordVPN |
| Refund window (days) | 30 | 30 | โ |
| Open-source apps | No | No | โ |
Total cost of ownership
| Horizon | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 months | $3 | $3 | NordVPN |
| 12 months | $42 | $41 | NordVPN |
| 24 months | $84 | $81 | NordVPN |