ESET vs Expel: MDR Comparison 2026
ESET (EDR vendor) and Expel (Pure-play MDR) take different approaches to managed detection and response. ESET requires its own security platform, while Expel works with your existing tools. ESET targets SMB, Mid-market, and Enterprise organizations; Expel focuses on Mid-market and Enterprise.
Key Differences at a Glance
Winner by Category
ESET vs Expel: Which Should You Choose?
Choose ESET if:
- •SMBs with 25-500 devices needing enterprise-grade MDR
- •Organizations already using ESET endpoint protection
- •Companies needing multi-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android)
- •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: ESET 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 ESET and Expel?
ESET is an EDR vendor that is platform-native (requires their own security stack). Expel is a Pure-play MDR that is technology-agnostic (works with your existing tools). SLA commitments differ: ESET offers ≤15 minutes, Expel offers Not disclosed.
How do ESET and Expel differ in response capabilities?
ESET 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. Incident response is included with ESET and not included with Expel.
How does ESET pricing compare to Expel?
ESET pricing: Custom-quoted based on environment and device count; volume discounts available (25-seat minimum). Expel pricing: Starting at $11,640/year; custom quotes based on environment. Watch for with ESET: Requires ESET PROTECT Enterprise or Elite subscription as base; MDR Ultimate is a significant step up in price from standard MDR. 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 ESET or Expel?
Choose ESET if: sMBs with 25-500 devices needing enterprise-grade MDR. Choose Expel if: mid-market and enterprise organizations with existing security tool investments wanting to maximize ROI. ESET is not ideal for enterprises requiring vendor-agnostic SIEM/EDR integration. Expel is not ideal for organizations wanting a single-vendor platform-native MDR (Expel requires existing security tools).