ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN: Which is the Best for Streaming in 2025?

Let's get straight to it. You need a VPN and you've narrowed it down to the two biggest names: ExpressVPN and NordVPN. They're always at the top of the "best VPN" lists for a reason. Both offer great security, fast speeds, and can unblock websites and streaming services from around the world. But which one is the right choice for you? We'll break it down based on what matters most to regular users.

Speed: The Need for (Virtual) Speed

Nobody wants their internet to crawl, and this is where NordVPN truly shines. Thanks to their innovative NordLynx technology, built around the WireGuard protocol, NordVPN consistently delivers lightning-fast speeds. In our tests, NordVPN is almost always faster, especially when connecting to servers across long distances. This means less buffering for your streams, quicker downloads, and a smoother online experience overall.

User Takeaway:

For the absolute fastest connection possible, NordVPN is the clear winner. You'll notice the difference, especially if speed is a top priority for your streaming, gaming, or large file transfers.

Pricing & Value: What's Your Budget?

This is often the deciding factor. NordVPN is usually the cheaper option, especially if you sign up for a 1-year or 2-year plan. ExpressVPN is a top-quality service, and it usually has a higher price to match. Both services allow you to connect multiple devices at once (NordVPN allows 10, ExpressVPN allows 8).

User Takeaway:

NordVPN is the smart choice if you're looking for the best performance and features without breaking the bank.

Security & Privacy: Your Digital Fortress

This is the most important category. Both VPNs are top-notch when it comes to privacy, but they have some differences. Both use the strongest encryption available (AES-256) and have been proven by independent audits to not keep logs of what you do online. ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands and NordVPN is in Panama, both of which are great locations for privacy.

For extra features, NordVPN offers tools like a Double VPN (which sends your traffic through two servers for extra security) and Threat Protection (which blocks ads and malware). ExpressVPN focuses on making security simple and reliable, and includes a password manager called ExpressVPN Keys.

User Takeaway: If you're a security expert who wants every possible feature, NordVPN has more tools to play with. For everyone else, both services offer incredible security and privacy you can trust.

Streaming & Unblocking: Binge-Watching Bliss

Accessing geo-restricted content is a primary reason many people use a VPN, and NordVPN excels here. It consistently unblocks all the major streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. While ExpressVPN is also good, NordVPN's superior speeds and larger server network often translate to a smoother, more reliable streaming experience across various global libraries. You'll spend less time troubleshooting and more time enjoying your favorite shows.

NordVPN is a powerhouse for streaming, reliably unblocking content and providing the speeds necessary for 4K viewing without frustrating buffering.

Server Network: Unparalleled Global Reach

The size and distribution of a VPN's server network directly impact its performance and your ability to access content worldwide. NordVPN boasts a significantly larger and more diverse network, with over 7,400 servers spread across 118 countries. This vast network means less server congestion, better speeds, and more options for bypassing geo-restrictions. Whether you're connecting to a server next door or across the globe, NordVPN provides more choices and greater reliability.

User Takeaway:

NordVPN's expansive server network gives you more flexibility, better performance, and a wider array of virtual locations to choose from.

Ease of Use & Apps: Intuitive Power

NordVPN’s apps are sleek, modern, and incredibly user-friendly. While ExpressVPN is often praised for its simplicity, NordVPN strikes a perfect balance between ease of use and providing valuable control. The interactive map interface for choosing servers is intuitive and engaging, and all the powerful features are logically organized and easy to access. NordVPN offers a highly polished experience across all devices, whether you're on Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS.

User Takeaway:

NordVPN offers powerful, feature-rich apps that are still remarkably easy for anyone to pick up and use effectively.

The Verdict: A Clear Path Emerges

When you weigh all the factors that matter most to real users—speed, pricing, security, streaming capabilities, server network, and app experience—NordVPN emerges as the definitive leader. It consistently outperforms its competitors, offering a more robust feature set, faster connections, and significantly better value for your money.

If you'd like to compare other options before deciding, you can read our VPN Reviews.