We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
Advertising Disclosure

vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

ExpressVPN vs NordVPN vs PureVPN 2024

Table of Contents

    Which VPN is better?

    Author Image Kristina Perunicic
    Kristina Perunicic

    Managing Editor

    Trying to choose between ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and PureVPN? When comparing three top VPNs like these, it can be hard to find the subtle differences to help decide which is the best VPN for you.

    We put all three VPNs through speed and security tests and ranked them based on their reliability and features. All three offer large server networks, good unblocking abilities, streaming and torrenting support, and a lengthy money-back guarantee.

    However, we also found some important differences. Namely, ExpressVPN offers servers in far more countries worldwide. PureVPN has some of the most generous policies regarding simultaneous device connections. NordVPN and ExpressVPN both offer unique, proprietary VPN protocols optimized for increased speed and security.

    PureVPN has lots of commendable features, but its slow speeds and less advanced apps let it down. NordVPN and ExperssVPN are some of the fastest VPNs we tested and have some of the most highly customizable and intuitive apps.

    Our Score

    Features 9.9/10
    Pricing 9.4/10
    Ease of Use 10.0/10
    Reliability & Support 10.0/10
    Features 9.4/10
    Pricing 7.5/10
    Ease of Use 10.0/10
    Reliability & Support 10.0/10
    Features 7.6/10
    Pricing 8.0/10
    Ease of Use 9.0/10
    Reliability & Support 6.0/10

    Reviews

    Review by our expert
    Author Image Keira Waddell
    Keira Waddell

    Senior Writer

    Our Score: 9.9/10

    ExpressVPN is one of the most popular and trusted names in the industry. It’s known for being one of the safest, fastest VPNs around, so I wanted to see if it can live up to these claims. It’s not the cheapest VPN, but it often offers discounts that make it a better value for the money. Other decent VPNs offer similar security features for much cheaper. So, do you really need to pay that muc...

    Read all
    Latest positive user review
    K
    Kriss
    10.0/10
    Great

    I've been an ExpressVPN customer since 2017 and it's been great: quickly connects to a nearby server i... n the Wash DC region, embedded shortcuts to apps I want to use while using VPN, disconnects quickly, has the kill switch feature which is necessary these days, and has a fine mobile app which works well on my Android phones and tablets. However, I was just notified that the annual price is jumping from $99 to $117 upon the next renewal, so it's time to see how the others compare within VPN Mentor.More

    Latest negative user review
    C
    Charli
    6.0/10
    Ok, but expensive

    Seems ok, but I wouldn't say it's worth $20AUD a month. That's steep if you live in a backwater like A... ustralia, where the currency is not valuable. Easy enough to set up - you don't need to be Einstein - but unless you're a tech nerd who can take a look under the bonnet, you'll just have to trust what they say about their product. It frequently drops out without the slightest warning, often when it's the only thing online at the time - despite fast and flawless fiber internet, rendering expression entirely useless UNLESS you have it sitting on your desktop where you can keep an eagle eye on it to actually see it when it drops out so you can kick it back into service again (it doesn't do it by itself), which seems to defeat its purpose, so I'm taking away 2 stars for that. Support is good and they do get back to you as fast as they can.More

    Review by our expert
    Author Image Angela Jovanoska
    Angela Jovanoska

    Cybersecurity Researcher

    Our Score: 9.4/10

    On the surface, NordVPN looks like a really impressive service. It claims to have a huge global server network, a speedy and reliable connection, and iron-clad security and privacy features. Plus, you can get it all for just $3.39/month. That all sounds great, but is there a catch? To find out, I did an in-depth analysis of NordVPN. I tested its speeds and how well it performs when you’re str...

    Read all
    Latest positive user review
    2
    210493Lu
    10.0/10
    The Best of The Best

    I simply tested all VPNs looking for cutting-edge online security, I tested the most expensive and the...  most talked about virtual anonymity, none made me as happy as NordVPN, it stands out for several reasons that the much more expensive ones it doesn't have, its double encryption, dedicated IPs, onion VPN, makes NordVPN unique, with almost 6,000 servers around the world and 12 million customers like me, you can see that NordVPN is not playing games with its customers and their online security , it always innovates to keep you more secure day after day, for a fair price in the long term and without sacrificing the speed of your connection, recently Nord is developing a new VPN protocol, Nordlynx a version still under construction derived from the Wireguard protocol, if you want to have a VPN of last security that think how it will make you more secure in the next month NordVPN is the right choice, I am completely thankful for being a customer and for finding what to me is the perfect VPN.More

    Latest negative user review
    D
    Dax
    6.0/10
    Average service, some nice features, rubbish support

    Basic features work really well. Basically. I liked the feature that when Nord crashes (as it seems to...  do monthly) it will shut other apps so they aren't exposed. My subscription is based in Australia. Found downloads peak at about 1-1.5Mb/s, which is ok as long as you aren't playing online games. Don't go for the frills (though hard not to when they gamify them). I canceled my subscription because I added the Kill switch and then MFA. Nek Minnit I can't even log in. No way to remove the Kill switch without logging in. Uninstalled, reinstalled no joy. Went to the help page, and it redirected me to up my subscription as the only solution. No chatbot where I am. and I don't have an email app so couldn't email help. After a couple of hours of mucking around. Gave up and went to a competitor. Note: if I hadn't played with the security settings, I would still be with Nord. But if I can't log in, it's a dead service to me.More

    Review by our expert
    Author Image Matthew Amos
    Matthew Amos

    Senior Editor

    Our Score: 7.6/10

    PureVPN is a highly-rated and affordable VPN, but its had its share of controversies. A past incident involving the FBI caused significant damage to its reputation. So, has it done enough to improve its policies since then? To find out, I did a deep dive into its privacy policy and everything else it offers. I also tested its speeds, thoroughly explored its server network, examined its security ...

    Read all
    Latest positive user review
    R
    Rich
    10.0/10
    An excellent value, all things considered

    While they will absolutely throttle p2p in most servers, it's easy to find and log into the p2p server... s. They responded promptly when I had questions (although once it was basically to say "sorry, tough luck"). Overall though, I think I paid something like $20 for a year's subscription - I really can't complain. I'm sold on the service, although I think the fact that it's based out of HK is a bit spooky. 9/10More

    Latest negative user review
    J
    John
    2.0/10
    Not Private! They cooperate with FBI! Application will NOT CLOSE (only minimizes)

    PureVPN COOPERATES WITH FBI INVESTIGATIONS! You can verify this with any search! PureVPN REQUIRES ... USERS TO PROVIDE REAL NAME TO USE THE SERVICE! VPN Does NOT Support Close Application, Against Windows Standards! Close Actually Minimizes and it Keeps Running. Company refuses to change this back (used to operate correctly) A clear violation of your rights as owner of your PC.More

    Pricing

    Starting price $6.67/month
    Money Back Guarantee (Days) 30 Days
    Number of devices per license 8 devices
    Starting price $3.39/month
    Money Back Guarantee (Days) 30 Days
    Number of devices per license 6 devices
    Starting price $2.03/month
    Money Back Guarantee (Days) 31 Days
    Number of devices per license 10 devices

    Best VPN by Category

    Best VPN Overall

    ExpressVPN is best overall because of its superior unblocking capabilities and widespread global server network, which gives you access to the biggest range of streaming content from around the world. Its security and privacy are also up there with NordVPN, although it has slightly more user-friendly apps.

    Best VPN for Torrents

    This was a close battle between NordVPN and ExpressVPN; however, ExpressVPN is the victor in the end. Both are extremely fast VPNs, which is important for torrenting, and are based outside of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances. One advantage of ExpressVPN is that all its servers support P2P, while some of NordVPN’s servers don’t. Plus, with more server locations, you’re more likely to find one near you for faster downloads.

    Best VPN for Windows

    NordVPN is the winner as it offers one of the best VPN apps for Windows with support for the NordLynx protocol and highly customizable interface and security settings. I particularly like its visual map interface which gives you a great idea of where servers are located. ExpressVPN’s app is equally secure and user-friendly but not as customizable and lacks the map interface.

    Best VPN for Android

    ExpressVPN wins this round thanks to its clean and minimal app with its one-tap connect button that’s perfect for mobile screens. It also comes with robust security features, like automatic Wi-Fi protection, customizable website shortcuts, and in-app troubleshooting. Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer apps for a wide range of Android devices, including Kindle Fire and Android TV.

    Best VPN for Mac

    NordVPN’s macOS app just about comes out on top thanks to its intuitive, map interface. Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN’s macOS apps also support their respective proprietary protocols, NordLynx and Lightway. Both are also equally as feature-rich and user-friendly as the Windows apps. While there’s nothing wrong with PureVPN’s macOS app, it lacks some advanced features and settings that the other VPNs have.

    Best VPN for iOS

    Like its Android app, ExpressVPN for iOS is simply one of the most user-friendly VPNs you’ll find anywhere, so it's this category's winner. Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN have extremely high app store reviews, which means most users are very happy with their experience, with PureVPN close behind. All offer essential security features, like 256-bit encryption and a kill switch, although none offer split tunneling. ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer some additional protection from trackers in the form of their Threat Manager and Threat Protection features, respectively.

    Best VPN for USA

    Between these three VPNs, ExpressVPN is the clear winner for users in the US. It has the most server locations across the US, as well as globally. All ExpressVPN servers also support all its VPN protocols and P2P. This means that no matter whether you are in the US trying to connect to a server in another country or in another country trying to connect to a server in the US, ExpressVPN gives you the best chance of finding the fastest server.

    The Bottom Line

    While PureVPN has many features that are worth paying attention to, it just can’t quite catch up yet to market leaders, like NordVPN and ExpressVPN. It has a surprisingly vast server network, robust security, and generous device limits. However, NordVPN and ExpressVPN are in a class of their own, with cutting-edge VPN protocols and advanced security features, like tracker blocking. In this particular battle, however, ExpressVPN comes out on top thanks to having the widest server network and the most user-friendly apps suitable even for beginners.

    Time to decide which one is best for you

    FAQ

    Is ExpressVPN better than NordVPN and PureVPN?

    Yes, ExpressVPN is better overall than NordVPN and PureVPN. It has 3000 servers in 105 countries, fast speeds, and impressive security features.

    Best of all, you can take advantage of its latest discount and get it for only $6.67 a month.

    What should I keep in mind when choosing between ExpressVPN, NordVPN and PureVPN?

    When choosing a VPN, you want to pay close attention to its number of servers, overall speed score, pricing, and the number of simultaneous device connections it offers. While some VPNs provide a flawless online experience, others will really slow you down.

    If you’re ready to commit, then ExpressVPN may be perfect for you due to its performance during the tests.

    Is ExpressVPN faster than NordVPN and PureVPN?

    Yes, ExpressVPN is faster than NordVPN and PureVPN. Since your VPN is your computer’s main connection to the internet, you need to use a service that won’t slow you down by more than 20%.

    If speeds are important to you, then I recommend you take a look at ExpressVPN. It’s the fastest service out there, provides unlimited bandwidth, and you won’t experience any slowdowns even when you connect to the other side of the planet. You can try it out risk-free.. It’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund if you don’t like it.

    Do ExpressVPN, NordVPN or PureVPN offer any deals?

    ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and PureVPN offer deals on occasion. You can check out the current coupons and discounts here. However, ExpressVPN has the best deals. Right now, you can get a 49% discount and up to 3 months for free with a new subscription.

    We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
    Learn more
    vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

    About the Author

    Kristina Perunicic is a former editor for vpnMentor. She’s a cybersecurity expert with an interest in VPNs and their importance in the digital privacy landscape.