|
ExpressVPN |
NordVPN |
Desktop apps |
Windows, Mac, Linux |
Windows, Mac, Linux |
Mobile apps |
iOS, Android |
iOS, Android |
Other apps |
Android TV, Fire Stick TV |
Android TV, Fire Stick TV |
Router support |
Yes |
Yes |
Pre-configured routers |
Yes |
Yes |
Browser extensions |
Chrome, Firefox |
Chrome, Firefox |
ExpressVPN and NordVPN’s device compatibility
NordVPN and ExpressVPN lead the market in wide-spread device compatibility. They both have apps for all major operating systems. They each have router support, too.
ExpressVPN and NordVPN also have browser extensions, but they take very different approaches.
ExpressVPN’s extension is really a controller, and you will need the desktop app for it to work – so it isn’t as lightweight as you might think. We love that you can control the VPN from within your browser window, but it’s not a conventional extension.
The alternative offered by NordVPN works as a standalone, but is actually a proxy not a VPN. This means that, unless you’re careful, the extension could become a privacy risk as it only protects traffic inside the browser. Any data you send outside of the browser will not be protected.
NordVPN has an easy, user-friendly interface, with an interactive map visualization of their servers. This is a nice gimmick, which doesn’t necessarily add much compared to ExpressVPN’s more minimalist approach but it certainly doesn’t subtract anything either.
![A screenshot of NordVPN's user interface]()
NordVPN PC app
When it comes to advanced options, the two VPN services take different approaches. ExpressVPN puts its settings in a separate options window, whereas NordVPN uses a tab and toggle design.
![A screenshot of the ExpressVPN app for PC]()
ExpressVPN PC app and options menu
ExpressVPN’s apps all feature a big on/off switch and little else in their main window. The basic interface is pretty much identical across devices, whereas NordVPN varies more noticeably.
This means, for instance, that the NordVPN tabs feel fiddly on our test iPhone, but not our Android phone.
![The Android and iPhone NordVPN apps side by side]()
NordVPN Android (left) and iOS (right) apps side by side
Overall, the apps of both VPN providers are highly intuitive across all devices – even if they do take different approaches.
SUMMARY
Both VPNs provide apps that are easy-to-use and available on all major devices. NordVPN’s apps are not complicated, but the fact that ExpressVPN’s apps are identical across all platforms makes them much easier for users to navigate. ExpressVPN’s browser extension is also more private and secure than NordVPN’s.
Apps & Ease Of Use Winner: ExpressVPN