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NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the two most popular premium VPNs. But which is better for UK users? We've tested both extensively to help you decide.
Quick Verdict
| Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | ExpressVPN | 420 Mbps vs 380 Mbps on UK servers |
| Price | NordVPN | £2.99/mo vs £5.75/mo |
| UK Servers | NordVPN | 440+ servers vs 4 locations |
| Streaming | Tie | Both work with all UK services |
| Security | Tie | Both use AES-256, verified no-logs |
| Value | NordVPN | Better price, more features |
Overall Winner: NordVPN — for most UK users. ExpressVPN wins if you prioritise absolute top speed.
Pricing Comparison
NordVPN Pricing:
- Monthly: £10.49/month
- 1-Year: £4.49/month (£53.88 total)
- 2-Year: £2.99/month (£71.76 total) ← Best value
ExpressVPN Pricing:
- Monthly: £10.42/month
- 6-Month: £7.83/month
- 15-Month: £5.75/month (includes 3 months free)
Speed Test Results (UK)
Testing Setup: 500 Mbps Virgin Media connection, London
NordVPN:
- London: 380 Mbps download, 290 Mbps upload, 8ms ping
- Manchester: 365 Mbps download, 12ms ping
- US Server: 285 Mbps download, 98ms ping
- Speed Loss: 24%
ExpressVPN:
- London: 420 Mbps download, 310 Mbps upload, 6ms ping
- Docklands: 410 Mbps download, 7ms ping
- US Server: 310 Mbps download, 92ms ping
- Speed Loss: 16%
Security & Privacy
NordVPN Security
AES-256-GCM, NordLynx (WireGuard), Panama jurisdiction, audited by PwC, Double VPN, Onion over VPN
ExpressVPN Security
AES-256, Lightway protocol, BVI jurisdiction, audited by PwC, TrustedServer (RAM-only)
Which Should You Choose?
Choose NordVPN if:
- ✅ You want the best value for money
- ✅ You need lots of UK servers
- ✅ You want extra features (ad blocking, dark web monitoring)
- ✅ You're on a budget
Choose ExpressVPN if:
- ✅ You want the absolute fastest speeds
- ✅ You need the simplest interface
- ✅ You watch Sky Go regularly
- ✅ Price isn't your main concern
Can't decide? Both have 30-day money-back guarantees. Try NordVPN first (it's cheaper), then try ExpressVPN if you're not satisfied.
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VPNs, password managers & antivirus — protect yourself for less.
Sento earns a referral if you click through our links — this never affects our recommendations. Prices and details correct at time of publication. Updated February 2026.