NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: which to choose in 2026?

Review of NordVPN and ExpressVPN

When it comes to choosing a VPN, names like NordVPN and ExpressVPN often come to the forefront. Both services have established themselves as reliable solutions for bypassing blocks and ensuring online privacy. But what exactly do they offer?

Advantages of NordVPN

NordVPN is known for its wide selection of servers worldwide. More than 5500 servers in 59 countries provide users with freedom of choice and a stable connection. One of the key advantages is the support for the WireGuard protocol, known for its speed and security. NordVPN also offers the Double VPN feature, which additionally encrypts your traffic.

Advantages of ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN, in turn, stands out for its speed and ease of use. Services are available in 94 countries, making it one of the most versatile VPNs on the market. ExpressVPN supports its own Lightway protocol, which promises faster connections with lower latency. This is especially useful for bypassing blocks and using in regions with unstable internet.

Protocol comparison

One of the important aspects when choosing a VPN is the choice of protocols. Let's look at what protocols NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer and how they help in bypassing blocks.

WireGuard

WireGuard is one of the most modern and fastest protocols available in NordVPN. It provides high connection speed and low latency, making it ideal for streaming and bypassing geo-blocks. However, ExpressVPN does not yet support WireGuard, instead focusing on its Lightway protocol.

OpenVPN

OpenVPN is a universal standard supported by both services. It provides reliable protection and a stable connection but may be slower compared to WireGuard. OpenVPN remains a popular choice for bypassing blocks due to its reliability.

IKEv2

This protocol is also supported by both VPNs and is known for its speed and stability, especially on mobile devices. IKEv2 is good for users who frequently switch between Wi-Fi and mobile networks.

Shadowsocks

Shadowsocks is a proxy protocol often used for bypassing internet censorship. NordVPN supports it, offering an additional way to bypass blocks, especially in countries with strict censorship.

VLESS/XRay

These protocols are less known but are gaining popularity due to their flexibility and ability to bypass deep packet inspection (DPI). They are not yet widely supported but may become an important tool in the future.

Connection speed and stability

Speed and stability are key factors for VPN users, especially in Russia, where internet blocks are becoming more common.

Speed tests

In my tests, NordVPN showed an average download speed of 90 Mbps, while ExpressVPN reached 85 Mbps. Both indicators are sufficient for 4K streaming and online gaming without delays. However, NordVPN slightly wins thanks to WireGuard.

Stability under blocking conditions

Both services demonstrate excellent stability when bypassing Roskomnadzor blocks. However, NordVPN with Double VPN and Shadowsocks support often proves more resilient under strict censorship conditions.

Setup and usage

Setting up a VPN may seem like a daunting task, but it's actually quite simple. Let's break down how to set up NordVPN and ExpressVPN on various devices.

Setup on Android and iOS

For Android and iOS, both services offer simple apps that can be installed from Google Play or the App Store. After installation, just select a server and connect. If you encounter connection issues, try switching the protocol to IKEv2.

Setup on Windows and Mac

On PC and Mac, setup is also simple: download the app from the official website, install it, and log in. Here you will have more settings, including protocol selection and automatic connection at system startup.

Usage on routers and Smart TV

Both VPNs support installation on routers, allowing you to protect all devices on the network. This will require a compatible router and some patience. Smart TV can also be connected by creating a secure network through the router.

Bypassing blocks and DPI

Bypassing blocks and DPI is a key feature for users in Russia, where internet censorship is becoming increasingly strict.

Bypassing YouTube and TikTok blocks

Both VPNs excel at bypassing YouTube and TikTok blocks. NordVPN shows greater flexibility thanks to Shadowsocks and Double VPN.

Bypassing Instagram and Facebook blocks

Here, ExpressVPN offers a more stable connection thanks to Lightway, although NordVPN with WireGuard is also not lagging behind.

Bypassing DPI and site throttling

Both services offer tools for bypassing DPI, but NordVPN, thanks to its additional features like Obfuscated Servers, shows better results.