Cynet vs Expel: MDR Comparison 2026
Cynet (MDR provider) and Expel (Pure-play MDR) take different approaches to managed detection and response. Cynet requires its own security platform, while Expel works with your existing tools. Cynet targets SMB and Mid-market organizations; Expel focuses on Mid-market and Enterprise.
Key Differences at a Glance
Winner by Category
Cynet vs Expel: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Cynet if:
- •SMB and mid-market organizations with small security teams (1-5 people) wanting maximum coverage from a single platform
- •Budget-conscious buyers wanting published transparent pricing with MDR included at no extra cost
- •Organizations that weight MITRE ATT&CK platform evaluation results heavily (100%/100%/0 FP for 3 consecutive rounds)
- •Threat hunting included in base pricing (it's an add-on with Expel)
Choose Expel if:
- •Mid-market and enterprise organizations with existing security tool investments wanting to maximize ROI
- •Tech-forward security teams that value transparency and want to see every SOC action
- •Multi-cloud and hybrid environments needing broad integration coverage
- •You want direct Slack integration with your SOC
Bottom line: Cynet is the choice if you want a single-vendor stack with deep integration. Expel is better if you have existing tools and want flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Cynet and Expel?
Cynet is a MDR provider that is platform-native (requires their own security stack). Expel is a Pure-play MDR that is technology-agnostic (works with your existing tools).
How do Cynet and Expel differ in response capabilities?
Cynet supports 6 autonomous actions (endpoint isolation, process termination, network containment, account disable, file quarantine, custom playbooks) and approval is configurable. Expel supports 6 autonomous actions (endpoint isolation, process termination, network containment, account disable, file quarantine, custom playbooks) and approval is configurable.
How does Cynet pricing compare to Expel?
Cynet pricing: Elite: $7/endpoint/month (EPP+EDR+CyOps MDR). All-in-One: $10/endpoint/month (adds NDR, UEBA, Deception, SOAR, SSPM). Verified on cynet.com/packages. (20-seat minimum). Expel pricing: Starting at $11,640/year; custom quotes based on environment. Watch for with Cynet: 20-endpoint minimum — $140/month floor for Elite, $200/month for All-in-One; 1-year auto-renewing contracts standard; combined with platform lock-in, exit is disruptive. Watch for with Expel: Threat hunting is NOT included in base MDR -- it is an add-on service; Price increases announced for 2025.
Should I choose Cynet or Expel?
Choose Cynet if: sMB and mid-market organizations with small security teams (1-5 people) wanting maximum coverage from a single platform. Choose Expel if: mid-market and enterprise organizations with existing security tool investments wanting to maximize ROI. Cynet is not ideal for large enterprises with existing security stacks — Cynet requires replacing existing EDR with its own agent. Expel is not ideal for organizations wanting a single-vendor platform-native MDR (Expel requires existing security tools).