Picking between NordVPN and Surfshark isn’t exactly easy both bring solid features and trustworthy security to the table. If you’re after speed and reliability, NordVPN often edges ahead as the better choice. Surfshark, though, wins points for affordability and handy extras like GPS spoofing.
We want to help you figure out which VPN matches your needs, without burning hours comparing specs.
Both VPNs support all the major devices and deliver strong privacy protections. Still, things like server count, streaming performance, and how easy the apps are to use might sway you one way or the other.
We’ll break down what each service nails and where they stumble. Hopefully, this helps you choose a VPN that actually fits your budget, security expectations, and daily internet habits.
Key Takeways
- NordVPN generally offers faster speeds and more server options.
- Surfshark provides strong features at a lower price point.
- Both services deliver solid privacy and easy-to-use apps.
Feature Comparison: NordVPN vs Surfshark
NordVPN and Surfshark both offer premium VPN services, but their features, security tools, and user experience aren’t identical. Each one tackles privacy and connectivity in its own way, which can make a big difference depending on what you’re after.
Security and Privacy Features
NordVPN goes with AES-256 encryption and supports advanced privacy tools like multi-hop (Double VPN), which sends your traffic through two servers for added safety. Its Onion over VPN feature lets you access the Tor network securely.
It also packs a built-in kill switch that cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops, so your privacy stays intact. Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption as well, and offers multiple kill switches, even for individual apps.
Surfshark’s CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malware, while Threat Protection Pro adds another layer of device security. The GPS override is a neat bonus for mobile users who want to spoof their location.
Neither VPN logs your data, but only NordVPN has passed independent privacy audits so far. That’s a confidence booster if you’re privacy-obsessed.
Server Network and Locations
NordVPN boasts over 5,000 servers in 60+ countries. That’s a massive spread, making it easier to find fast, reliable connections pretty much anywhere. More servers usually means less congestion and better speed.
Surfshark clocks in with about 3,200 servers in 100+ locations. You’ll find servers in more countries, but fewer per country. It’s still a flexible network, especially if you need access in less common regions, and it’s built for P2P sharing and streaming.
Simultaneous Device Connections
Surfshark lets you connect unlimited devices on a single plan. That means you can protect your phone, laptop, tablet, and even your grandma’s iPad without paying extra.
NordVPN puts a cap at six devices per account. That covers most people, but if you’re juggling a ton of gadgets or want to share with family, it might feel a bit tight. Both offer easy-to-use apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
Performance: Speed and Streaming Capabilities
Speed and streaming access matter a lot when you’re picking a VPN, right? NordVPN and Surfshark both do a good job, but their approaches aren’t identical.
Connection and Download Speeds
NordVPN usually clocks in with faster download and upload speeds, especially if you’re connecting to nearby servers. Having more servers helps keep things speedy and less crowded.
Surfshark’s speeds are solid, especially for the price, but sometimes it lags behind NordVPN in certain areas. Both use the WireGuard protocol, which is fast and efficient. WireGuard beats out older protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2 most of the time.
If you’re on the move or have a bunch of gadgets, Surfshark’s unlimited connections mean you won’t have to sacrifice speed across devices.
| VPN Provider | Average Download Speed | Upload Speed | Server Count |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Faster on average | Higher | 5500+ servers |
| Surfshark | Slightly slower | Good | 3200+ servers |
Streaming Services and Content Unblocking
Both VPNs can unlock Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. NordVPN often does a better job with Netflix USA, thanks to its huge server network.
Surfshark shines if you’re after geo-restricted content in lots of different countries. That GPS override is a lifesaver when you’re traveling and need to access local services. Both can slip past VPN blocks on streaming sites with obfuscated servers, but NordVPN’s bigger network usually means fewer blacklists to worry about.
Protocols and Technology
Both VPNs use WireGuard as their main protocol, which is fast and secure. NordVPN adds its own twist with NordLynx technology, making things even snappier and more private.
You can still pick OpenVPN or IKEv2 on both, which is handy for compatibility. Surfshark offers obfuscated servers to hide VPN use, which helps if you’re somewhere restrictive or on a picky network.
Privacy and Security: Policies, Audits, and Data Protection
When it comes to privacy and security, we want clear rules, outside verification, and bonus tools to keep us safe online. It’s not just about promises it’s about proof.
No-Logs Policy and Independent Audits
Both NordVPN and Surfshark say they have a strict no-logs policy. They claim they don’t keep records of your browsing, data, or connection times.
They’ve both passed independent audits by cybersecurity firms that checked if these policies hold up. That kind of transparency is reassuring especially if you’re worried about your data getting stored or shared.
They also publish transparency reports and invite regular outside checks to keep things honest.
Data Retention Laws and Management
NordVPN is based in Panama, which doesn’t have mandatory data retention laws. That makes it a safer bet for privacy since they aren’t legally required to collect info.
Surfshark operates out of the Netherlands, where some data retention laws exist, but they use technical tricks to keep your data footprint minimal. Both focus on collecting as little as possible, which lowers the risk if there’s a breach or legal request.
Additional Security Tools and Features
NordVPN throws in extras like malware protection and breach alerts. Surfshark bundles more tools in its Surfshark One and Surfshark One+ packages—think ad blocker, antivirus, and password manager.
Both offer encrypted cloud storage for backing up files securely. These add-ons go beyond basic encryption and help you stay safer while browsing or storing stuff online.
You can get a closer look at their security features in this Surfshark vs. NordVPN comparison.
Pricing, Offers, and Value for Money
Let’s get real price and value matter. We took a close look at how both VPNs price their plans, what deals they offer, and how flexible they are.
Subscription Plans and Savings
NordVPN and Surfshark both sell monthly, yearly, and two-year plans. NordVPN’s monthly rate runs a bit higher, but if you only need a VPN for a short trip, it might work out.
Their two-year plan usually includes extra months free, which sweetens the deal. Surfshark’s pricing is lower overall, making it a go-to for anyone on a budget. That two-year plan is especially cheap per month often less than NordVPN’s long-term offer.
Either way, both keep their prices under $4 a month if you go for a longer commitment, which is honestly a steal compared to some other VPNs out there.
Money-Back Guarantees and Free Trials
You get a 30-day money-back guarantee with both, so you can try them out and bail if they’re not for you. NordVPN skips a free trial, but that guarantee works as a trial period anyway.
Surfshark sometimes tosses in a 7-day free trial on certain platforms, letting you test it with zero risk upfront.
Budget VPN Options
If you’re after a VPN that keeps costs low but doesn’t skimp on features, Surfshark usually takes the lead. It manages to balance price and features without chopping off essentials.
NordVPN costs a bit more, but you get more security features in return. Both often show up in lists of best cheap VPNs, with long-term plans running under $4 a month.
It really comes down to whether you want to save money or grab those extra security perks NordVPN throws in. You can check out the current deals and breakdowns over at Cybernews.
User Experience: Apps, Compatibility, and Customer Support
We really care about how easy these VPN apps are to use, what devices they support, and whether customer help actually helps. These things can make or break how well a VPN fits into your life or how annoying it gets when something breaks.
Device and Platform Compatibility
NordVPN and Surfshark both work on all the big platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Surfshark lets us connect unlimited devices at once, which is honestly pretty great if you have a bunch of gadgets.
NordVPN caps it at six, but it does support more obscure stuff like Linux and routers. If you want a dedicated IP address for work or gaming, NordVPN has that as an option. Surfshark’s unlimited connections might be better for big households, while NordVPN suits smaller setups or those who need a stable IP.
User Interface and Setup
Both apps look clean and are easy to navigate. NordVPN’s interface is straightforward, with quick server access and security options right up front.
Surfshark goes for simplicity too, but its app puts things like ad-block toggles front and center. Setup is quick for both just a few minutes and you’re in.
NordVPN gives us four plan lengths to pick from, so you can go short or long term. Surfshark offers three, and their signup process is just as painless.
Customer Support and Resources
Both companies offer 24/7 live chat, and responses come fast. NordVPN’s help center is packed with guides and troubleshooting tips super handy if you like fixing things yourself.
Surfshark’s support is solid, but the guides are a bit more basic. Email support exists for both, but honestly, live chat is where you’ll get help the quickest.
Alternatives to NordVPN and Surfshark
If neither NordVPN nor Surfshark feels right, don’t worry—there are plenty of other solid choices. Some focus on speed, others on privacy, and a few just nail flexibility.
ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access
ExpressVPN is famous for its fast connections and solid security. It’s a top pick if you want to stream or get around geo-blocks.
The apps are easy, and it works on tons of devices. Private Internet Access (PIA) has a huge server network and lots of privacy features.
You can tweak encryption settings and use it for P2P sharing. PIA’s pricing is competitive, whether you’re going month-to-month or signing up for a year.
- ExpressVPN: Speed, reliability, ease of use
- Private Internet Access: Privacy options, large server base, budget-friendly
Both keep up with security updates and have solid reputations.
Frequently Asked Questions
We dug into how NordVPN and Surfshark stack up on price, speed, and what people actually say about them. We also checked out their limits and how well they handle streaming and tunneling. It’s a lot to consider, honestly.
What factors should be considered when comparing NordVPN and Surfshark’s pricing?
Both offer monthly, yearly, and multi-year plans. NordVPN tends to be cheaper for month-to-month, but Surfshark usually wins on long-term deals.
Discounts, refund policies, and whether the price fits your budget over time all matter, too.
Which VPN offers better speeds between NordVPN and Surfshark?
NordVPN usually delivers faster, more reliable speeds especially on desktop. Surfshark holds its own, but sometimes lags a bit depending on the server.
NordVPN’s bigger server network seems to help keep things smooth in most cases.
How does user experience on Reddit compare between NordVPN and Surfshark?
Reddit users often praise Surfshark for its reach across 100 countries, even though it has fewer servers. NordVPN gets props for its bigger network and reliability.
People mention NordVPN’s security and ease of use, while Surfshark stands out for value and simplicity.
What are some known limitations of using NordVPN?
NordVPN’s apps take up more space, which can be annoying if you’re tight on storage. Some people also mention occasional connection drops.
Not every server supports all traffic types, so if you need something like P2P everywhere, you might hit a wall.
Is there a significant difference in Netflix streaming capabilities between NordVPN and Surfshark?
Both handle Netflix pretty well in most regions. NordVPN might be a bit better at getting around geoblocks consistently.
Surfshark still works for Netflix, but sometimes stumbles with certain libraries.
How does Surfshark’s full tunnel VPN feature compare to NordVPN’s VPN tunneling?
Surfshark lets you use a full tunnel VPN, so it sends all your traffic through the VPN. NordVPN, on the other hand, gives you split tunneling, which means you can pick certain apps or websites to bypass the VPN entirely.
Honestly, that flexibility from NordVPN can be pretty handy if you want to protect some stuff but keep other things running direct. Not everyone needs all their data going through a VPN all the time, right?
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, both NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent choices it really depends on what you value most. If raw speed, advanced security features, and a massive server network are key, NordVPN is hard to beat. But if you’re hunting for great value, unlimited device connections, and privacy-focused extras like GPS spoofing, Surfshark might be the smarter pick.
Still not sure which one fits you best?
👉 Read our full NordVPN review
👉 Check out the complete Surfshark review
These in-depth guides cover every feature, quirk, and pricing detail to help you make a confident decision.
Whichever you choose, both services offer money-back guarantees so there’s zero risk in trying them out.
Safe browsing! 🌐🔐
