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ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
Which is the better vpn for Mac in 2026?
We compared ExpressVPN and NordVPN across 5 key factors including price, open-source status, and community adoption. Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN are excellent vpn. Read our full breakdown below.
ExpressVPN
VPN client for secure and private internet access
Free
VS
NordVPN
VPN client for secure internet access and private browsing
Free
Our Verdict
Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN are excellent vpn. ExpressVPN is better for users who prefer polished experiences, while NordVPN excels for those who value established ecosystems.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ExpressVPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Open Source | No | No |
| Monthly Installs | N/A | N/A |
| GitHub Stars | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Security & Privacy | Security & Privacy |
Quick Install
ExpressVPN
brew install --cask expressvpnNordVPN
brew install --cask nordvpnLearn More
In-Depth Overview
What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is a premium virtual private network service founded in 2009 and headquartered in the British Virgin Islands. It is widely regarded as one of the top VPN providers globally, known for its exceptional speed, broad server coverage, and unwavering commitment to user privacy. ExpressVPN operates servers in 105 countries across 160 locations, giving it one of the largest geographic footprints in the VPN industry. The macOS client is polished and intuitive, featuring a one-click connect button, a favorites system for frequently used servers, and split tunneling to route only specific apps through the VPN. ExpressVPN uses its proprietary Lightway protocol, which was purpose-built for speed and reliability—it establishes connections in under a second and seamlessly handles network switches. The company runs all servers on TrustedServer technology, meaning they run entirely from RAM with no data ever written to disk, ensuring that server seizures cannot compromise user data. ExpressVPN has been independently audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers and Cure53, confirming its no-logs policy. It supports up to 8 simultaneous device connections and costs approximately $6.67/month on the annual plan.
What is NordVPN?
NordVPN is one of the world's most popular VPN services, operated by Nord Security and headquartered in Panama, a jurisdiction with no mandatory data retention laws. Founded in 2012, NordVPN has grown to serve over 14 million users worldwide, with a server network spanning 6,400+ servers across 111 countries. The macOS client is modern and feature-rich, offering a visual server map, quick connect, specialty servers (Double VPN, Onion over VPN, P2P-optimized), and the innovative Threat Protection feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites even when the VPN is disconnected. NordVPN's proprietary NordLynx protocol, built on WireGuard, delivers benchmark-leading speeds while maintaining strong encryption. The company's Meshnet feature allows users to create private encrypted networks between their devices, enabling secure file sharing and remote access. NordVPN has undergone multiple independent audits by Deloitte and VerSprite, confirming its no-logs policy. It supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections and costs approximately $3.49/month on the 2-year plan, making it significantly more affordable than ExpressVPN.
Detailed Feature Comparison
Speed & Protocol
CriticalExpressVPNExcellent
ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol delivers outstanding speeds with minimal latency. Connection establishment is nearly instantaneous, and the protocol handles network switches seamlessly. Speed test results consistently show minimal impact on base connection speeds, typically retaining 85-90% of unencrypted performance on nearby servers.
NordVPNExcellent
NordVPN's NordLynx protocol, built on WireGuard, delivers the fastest raw throughput in independent benchmarks. It consistently outperforms Lightway in download speed tests, particularly on long-distance connections. NordLynx also provides excellent latency characteristics, making it suitable for gaming and real-time applications.
Verdict: NordLynx edges ahead in raw speed benchmarks, though both protocols deliver excellent real-world performance.
Server Network
HighExpressVPNExcellent
ExpressVPN operates in 105 countries with 160+ server locations, giving it one of the broadest geographic coverages in the industry. This is particularly valuable for users who need servers in less common regions like Central Asia, Africa, or the Middle East.
NordVPNExcellent
NordVPN has 6,400+ servers across 111 countries, offering the largest server count of any major VPN. While its country coverage is slightly higher than ExpressVPN, the main advantage is server density in popular regions, reducing overcrowding.
Verdict: NordVPN offers more servers in more countries, providing better coverage and reduced congestion.
Privacy & Security
CriticalExpressVPNExcellent
ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands with strong privacy protections. TrustedServer technology runs all servers from RAM only. Multiple independent audits confirm the no-logs policy. The company was acquired by Kape Technologies in 2021, which raised some privacy concerns, though operations have remained transparent.
NordVPNExcellent
NordVPN is based in Panama with no data retention requirements. Multiple independent audits by Deloitte confirm the no-logs policy. All servers are colocated and operated by Nord Security directly. The company offers Double VPN for multi-hop encryption and Onion over VPN for Tor integration.
Verdict: Both VPNs have been independently audited and maintain strict no-logs policies with strong privacy protections.
Additional Features
HighExpressVPNGood
ExpressVPN includes split tunneling, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a password manager (ExpressVPN Keys). It focuses on core VPN functionality without bloat. The Lightway protocol's fast reconnection is a standout feature for mobile users.
NordVPNExcellent
NordVPN offers significantly more features: Threat Protection (ad/tracker/malware blocking), Meshnet (private encrypted networks), Dark Web Monitor, Double VPN, Onion over VPN, split tunneling, kill switch, and dedicated IP addresses. These extras add substantial value beyond basic VPN functionality.
Verdict: NordVPN offers significantly more features, particularly Threat Protection and Meshnet.
Streaming Unblocking
HighExpressVPNExcellent
ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable VPNs for unblocking streaming services. It consistently works with Netflix (multiple regions), Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and most other major platforms. The company actively maintains unblocking capabilities.
NordVPNExcellent
NordVPN matches ExpressVPN's streaming capabilities, reliably unblocking Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more. SmartPlay technology automatically configures DNS settings for optimal streaming performance. NordVPN also works well with lesser-known regional streaming services.
Verdict: Both VPNs excel at unblocking streaming services with near-perfect reliability.
macOS App Quality
HighExpressVPNExcellent
ExpressVPN's Mac app is beautifully designed with a simple one-click interface, favorite servers, split tunneling, and automatic protocol selection. It integrates naturally with macOS and provides notification center alerts. The app is lightweight and doesn't impact system performance.
NordVPNGood
NordVPN's Mac app features a visual server map, quick connect, specialty server selection, and Threat Protection settings. While functional and modern, the interface is slightly more complex than ExpressVPN's due to the additional features. Recent updates have improved the macOS integration significantly.
Verdict: ExpressVPN's Mac app is simpler and more polished, though NordVPN's is more feature-rich.
Price & Value
CriticalExpressVPNFair
ExpressVPN is one of the most expensive VPNs at approximately $6.67/month on the annual plan and $8.32/month on the 6-month plan. The 1-month plan costs $12.95. While the quality justifies a premium, the price gap with competitors like NordVPN is significant.
NordVPNExcellent
NordVPN offers excellent value at approximately $3.49/month on the 2-year plan, $4.99/month on the 1-year plan, and $12.99 for a single month. At roughly half the price of ExpressVPN, NordVPN offers more features for significantly less money.
Verdict: NordVPN is roughly half the price of ExpressVPN while offering more features.
Who Should Choose Which?
1The Budget-Conscious Privacy Advocate
NordVPN
NordVPN offers comprehensive privacy protection with multiple audits, Double VPN, and Onion over VPN at roughly half the cost of ExpressVPN. Threat Protection adds malware and tracker blocking without extra cost.
2The International Traveler
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN's coverage in 105 countries with 160+ locations means you'll find servers even in less common destinations. The Lightway protocol handles network switches between Wi-Fi and cellular seamlessly.
3The Streaming Enthusiast
NordVPN
Both unblock major streaming services, but NordVPN's SmartPlay and lower price make it the better value for streaming-focused users who want reliable unblocking without premium pricing.
4The Non-Technical User
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN's one-click interface is the most user-friendly VPN available. There's literally nothing to configure—install the app, press connect, and you're protected.
5The Power User
NordVPN
Meshnet for private networks, dedicated IPs, Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and Threat Protection provide the depth that power users want for customizing their privacy setup.
6The Mac-First Professional
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN's Mac app has the most polished macOS integration, with a clean design that doesn't feel out of place alongside Apple's own applications.
7The Frequent International Traveler
ExpressVPN
Travelers who frequently visit countries with restrictive internet policies (China, UAE, Russia, Turkey) will find ExpressVPN more reliable for bypassing censorship. ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol and obfuscated servers are specifically engineered to evade deep packet inspection firewalls. The company maintains a strong track record of working in China where many VPNs fail entirely. NordVPN's obfuscated servers also work in many restricted countries, but user reports consistently rank ExpressVPN as more reliable in the most heavily censored environments.
8The Family Seeking Maximum Value
NordVPN
Families protecting multiple devices benefit from NordVPN's 10 simultaneous connections (compared to ExpressVPN's 8) and its significantly lower price on 2-year plans. A family of four can protect all phones, laptops, tablets, and a smart TV on a single NordVPN subscription for under $4 per month. The bundled NordPass password manager on the Plus plan adds further value by giving the whole family a shared password management solution, replacing a separate subscription that would otherwise cost $2-4/month.
9The Streaming Enthusiast Accessing Global Content
NordVPN
Both VPNs reliably unblock Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming platforms, but NordVPN's SmartPlay DNS feature provides a more seamless streaming experience with automatic server selection for optimal quality. NordVPN also maintains dedicated streaming-optimized servers that are regularly refreshed to stay ahead of platform blocks. In 2025-2026 testing, NordVPN unblocks 15+ Netflix regions compared to ExpressVPN's 12+, giving cord-cutters access to a wider global content library.
Migration Guide
Expressvpn → Nordvpn
Cancel your ExpressVPN subscription and sign up for NordVPN. Download the Mac app, log in, and NordVPN will auto-select the best server. Enable Threat Protection in settings. Your browsing experience will be familiar—the main difference is more options and a lower monthly cost.
Nordvpn → Expressvpn
Cancel NordVPN and sign up for ExpressVPN. Download the Mac app, log in, and tap connect. The interface is simpler—fewer options but faster to use. Note that you'll lose Threat Protection, Meshnet, and Double VPN features.
Pro Tips
Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can try before committing. Test streaming, speed, and the Mac app experience during the trial period.
Final Verdict
Overall Winner
NordVPN
9.3/10
Winner
8.8/10
Runner-up
NordVPN is the better VPN for most Mac users in 2026. It offers faster speeds via NordLynx, more features (Threat Protection, Meshnet, Double VPN), a larger server network, and significantly better pricing at roughly half the cost of ExpressVPN. ExpressVPN remains an excellent VPN with the industry's best macOS app design, the widest geographic coverage, and the fastest connection establishment. Both are premium products with verified no-logs policies and excellent streaming support. The deciding factor is value—NordVPN delivers more for less.
Bottom Line: Choose NordVPN for the best value with the most features; choose ExpressVPN for the simplest interface and widest server coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
In independent speed benchmarks, NordVPN's NordLynx protocol consistently delivers slightly higher download speeds than ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol, particularly on long-distance connections. However, the difference in real-world use is often negligible—both VPNs retain 85-90% of your base connection speed, which is more than enough for streaming, gaming, and general browsing. ExpressVPN has an edge in connection establishment time, connecting in under a second.
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Related Technologies & Concepts
WireGuardLightwayNordLynxMullvad VPNProtonVPNTrustedServerThreat ProtectionMeshnetKape TechnologiesNord Security
WireGuard (VPN protocol that NordLynx is built upon.), Lightway (ExpressVPN's proprietary VPN protocol.), NordLynx (NordVPN's proprietary WireGuard-based protocol.), Mullvad VPN (Privacy-focused competitor with anonymous accounts.), ProtonVPN (Swiss-based competitor with a free tier.), TrustedServer (ExpressVPN's RAM-only server technology.), Threat Protection (NordVPN's ad/tracker/malware blocking system.), Meshnet (NordVPN's private encrypted network feature.), Kape Technologies (Company that acquired ExpressVPN in 2021.), Nord Security (Parent company of NordVPN.)
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Sources & References
Fact-CheckedLast verified: Feb 15, 2026
Key Verified Facts
- ExpressVPN operates servers in 105 countries.[cite-expressvpn-official]
- NordVPN has 6,400+ servers across 111 countries.[cite-nordvpn-official]
- NordVPN 2-year plan costs approximately $3.49/month.[cite-nordvpn-pricing]
- ExpressVPN annual plan costs approximately $6.67/month.[cite-expressvpn-pricing]
- 1ExpressVPN - High-Speed Secure VPN
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
- 2ExpressVPN Pricing Plans
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- 3NordVPN - Online VPN Service
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- 4NordVPN Plans & Pricing
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
Research queries: ExpressVPN vs NordVPN 2026; NordVPN NordLynx speed; ExpressVPN Lightway protocol; best VPN Mac 2026