Expel vs WithSecure: MDR Comparison 2026
Expel (Pure-play MDR) and WithSecure (EDR vendor) take different approaches to managed detection and response. Expel works with your existing tools, while WithSecure requires its own security platform. Expel targets Mid-market and Enterprise organizations; WithSecure focuses on SMB, Mid-market, and Enterprise.
Key Differences at a Glance
Winner by Category
Expel vs WithSecure: Which Should You Choose?
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
Choose WithSecure if:
- •European mid-market organizations prioritizing EU data residency, GDPR, NIS2, and DORA compliance
- •Companies wanting a single-vendor platform (EPP + EDR + XDR + MDR) with included IR
- •Organizations needing NCSC CIR Level 1 assured incident response (UK/EU government-adjacent)
- •Threat hunting included in base pricing (it's an add-on with Expel)
Bottom line: WithSecure 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 Expel and WithSecure?
Expel is a Pure-play MDR that is technology-agnostic (works with your existing tools). WithSecure is an EDR vendor that is platform-native (requires their own security stack).
How do Expel and WithSecure differ in response capabilities?
Expel supports 6 autonomous actions (endpoint isolation, process termination, network containment, account disable, file quarantine, custom playbooks) and approval is configurable. WithSecure supports 5 autonomous actions (endpoint isolation, process termination, network containment, account disable, file quarantine) and approval is configurable. Incident response is not included with Expel and included with WithSecure.
How does Expel pricing compare to WithSecure?
Expel pricing: Starting at $11,640/year; custom quotes based on environment. WithSecure pricing: Not publicly disclosed. Custom quotes required. Described as 'competitively priced for mid-sized businesses.' ITPro rated pricing 5/5 stars.. Watch for with Expel: Threat hunting is NOT included in base MDR -- it is an add-on service; Price increases announced for 2025. Watch for with WithSecure: Platform lock-in — requires WithSecure Elements EDR (cannot use competing EDR); Modular pricing — full coverage across identity, cloud, SaaS, and exposure management adds cost.
Should I choose Expel or WithSecure?
Choose Expel if: mid-market and enterprise organizations with existing security tool investments wanting to maximize ROI. Choose WithSecure if: european mid-market organizations prioritizing EU data residency, GDPR, NIS2, and DORA compliance. Expel is not ideal for organizations wanting a single-vendor platform-native MDR (Expel requires existing security tools). WithSecure is not ideal for uS-centric organizations wanting FedRAMP or deep US federal compliance.