When you explore the internet to find a list of top VPNs, NordVPN and Surfshark will always be in the top two spots. Each offers unique features and performance that others fail to provide.
For instance, Surfshark has amazing pricing plans that are affordable for many. You can use this VPN to connect a maximum number of devices simultaneously.
On the flip side, NordVPN excels at its speed. Its massive network offers great security and a polished user experience.
So, when it comes to Surfshark vs NordVPN, a deep analysis is required to pick the right one for you. Don’t worry, we have done the job for you. Dig in for a detailed comparison between the top VPNs to see which one ticks all the right boxes.
Overview of NordVPN and Surfshark
Nothing on the internet is secure except when you use the right technology to safeguard your data and activity. This is where a Virtual Private Network or VPN comes in. The best one helps to provide safe and fast private internet browsing experiences that you may fail to get otherwise.
There are multiple VPN providers available, claiming to be the best ones. However, NordVPN and Surfshark truly stand out for their unique characteristics and performance. Here is an overview of each.
NordVPN
With more than 6,400 servers in 100+ countries, NordVPN is popular for providing fast and reliable connections globally. This makes this technology ideal for accessing content from various parts of the world and avoiding congestion as much as possible.
NordVPN stands out for its strong security features. For instance, when you use the tool, you get AES-256 encryption with excellent support for safe tunneling protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx. Additionally, NordVPN comes with a unique double VPN feature that helps to route traffic via two servers to provide you with extra encryption.
You can use NordVPN to connect up to six devices at the same time. What’s more, you can use it to experience fast internet speed, elevating your browsing game to another level. You can use it effortlessly for tasks like torrenting and streaming.
Surfshark
With more than 3,200 servers in 100 countries, Surfshark is an incredible VPN provider, taking the world by store. Although it has a much smaller network than NordVPN, it still covers a wide range of locations while providing smooth connections.
When it comes to security, Surfshark offers an excellent one. It features AES-256 encryption, with solid support for OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols.
You can also use its CleanWeb feature to block unnecessary ads or trackers. It is a lot like NordVPN in many aspects. For instance, Surfshark supports a no-logs policy and operates under a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.
However, unlike NordVPN, Surfshark supports unlimited device connections that operate simultaneously. So, if you have a big family or a team, you can use this VPN for multiple devices at a time.
Also, it gains attraction for its attractive price point. Surfshark is a lot more budget-friendly than most VPN providers, including NordVPN. This makes it a perfect pick for long-term plans.
This was a brief overview of both VPNs to give you a sneak peek into their characteristics and performance. Read below for a detailed comparison so you can make a wise decision.
NordVPN vs Surfshark Comparison
Take a look at their similarities and differences.
Pricing and Plans
Both VPNs offer three pricing plans with varying features. You will also find that every subscription tier comes with monthly, one-year, and two-year pricing options.
When you explore Surfshark, you will find it to have three subscription plans. These are:
- Surfshark Starter
- Surfshark One
- Surfshark One+
The starter plan includes the main VPN service, while One+ bundles come with the most number of additional features.
The monthly pricing for each is $15.45, $15.95 and $17.95 respectively. However, if you plan to take one- or two-year payment plans, the prices will reduce significantly by almost $13 or more.
After a thorough evaluation, we think that Surfshark One for one year is a perfect balance between value and money. It is comparatively affordable and has multiple features to offer.
NordVPN also has three pricing plans available. These are:
- NordVPN Basic
- Plus
- Complete
The monthly charges are $12.99, $13.99 and $14.99, respectively. The one-year and two-year charges are more than Surfshark asks for but are still affordable within the range of $4 to $7 per month.
While the basic plan only includes the main VPN, Plus and Complete have several features like anti-malware protection, ad blocker, encryption, and lots more.
NordVPN price per month for the Plus plan is $5.99. This is a good plan that brings value for money.
With this one, you can have a full VPN and a password manager, all bundled in. If you are someone who demands a suite of various security tools from only one software provider, this plan may be a good choice.
If you are an Android user, you can benefit from the seven-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee available for all NordVPN plans. That’s a plus for many of you who would want to experience a tool before buying it properly.
In addition, you can use NordVPN coupons to get discounts on your VPN plan.
Security Features
Both NordVPN and Surfshark take pride in the quality of their security. They offer advanced protection, but there are a few differences.
NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is one of the highest standards for VPNs. Experts readers here would know that it is almost impossible to crack this encryption.
It also offers multiple protocols, such as OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx protocol. NordLynx is quite popular for its superior speed and amazing security.
Some of the major security features of this VPN provider include:
- CyberSec is a built-in feature designed to easily block malware, trackers, and various malicious websites.
- Kill Switch that automatically disconnects your internet connection as soon as your VPN drops. This act prevents unnecessary leakage of your data.
- Dedicated IP for anyone who would want a static IP address. This feature is offered as an extra.
Surfshark is no less when it comes to offering security. Although it is much smaller and less popular than NordVPN, it also uses AES-256 encryption to provide you with industry-standard security. You can also use the MultiHop feature provided by this VPN to connect via two VPN servers at a time to enjoy some extra encryption.
Surfshark has some unique security features.
- CleanWeb is a feature similar to NordVPN’s CyberSec that helps block ads, trackers, and various malicious sites.
- Surfshark, like NordVPN, comes with a kill switch that disconnects your internet connection immediately if your VPN drops.
- Surfshark gained quite a lot of attention for its HackLock and BlindSearch features. These additional privacy tools alert you if your email appears in a leaked database. BlindSearch allows you to have a private and entirely ad-free search engine to explore your data.
After analyzing this category, it is clear that both NordVPN and Surfshark excel at offering top-notch security.
Speed and Performance
You can’t choose a VPN provider without analyzing its speed and performance. So, which one excels in this department?
As for us, NordVPN is a winner. While both offer incredible speed, you will find NordVPN enhancing download speed, ensuring that you get a faster VPN.
NordVPN’s NordLynx is designed to offer fast speeds without compromising your data’s security. The VPN enhances your connection speeds while reducing overall latency.
Server Network and Locations
NordVPN is again a clear winner in this department as well. Currently, NordVPN has around 6,400+ servers in its NordVPN servers list. These servers are located across a whooping 111 countries.
However, Surfshark VPN only has around 3,200 servers.
Since NordVPN has more country locations, it provides more options to you than Surfshark, allowing you to have a seamless global browsing experience.
That said, with the amazing growth Surfshark has shown since its inception, it can catch up with NordVPN’s growth pretty soon.
Privacy and Logging Policies
NordVPN and Surfshark are quite similar in this department.
NordVPN only follows a strict no-logs policy. It does not store any data or information on your browsing activity.
In addition, this VPN provider puts in place features such as obfuscated servers to hide your VPN use. All of this helps to make it fruitful for bypassing any type of censorship in countries like China or the Middle East, which have a lot of restrictions.
Surfshark follows NordVPN in this department as well. It also has a solid no-logs policy.
Additionally, the VPN provider has a unique Camouflage Mode. This makes it tough for authorities or governments to detect your VPN usage. You can also benefit from the NoBorders Mode to avoid all types of internet restrictions in areas with strict censorship.
Customer Support and Reviews
There is a tie between NordVPN and Surfshark’s customer support. Both technologies offer 24/7 live chat support, meaning you can contact a representative as easily as possible. You will also find NordVPN and Surfshark offering multilingual support options, making it easy for you to get answers to your queries.
Similarly, customer reviews regarding both VPNs are quite positive. But again, NordVPN is loved the most by the masses.
For instance, Frank shares that NordVPN makes him feel secure and safe on the internet.
Similarly, Marc has praised the tech support of the NordVPN team for their quick response.
The positive feedback on NordVPN customer service shows the efforts this provider makes in making the browsing experience of its customers easy and smooth.
Surfshark has mixed reviews from customers.
According to a user, the customer support team is quite helpful. The experts helped the user set up Surfshark for the first time on their Amazon Firestick and then changed the location to Netflix.
Charles has also praised a team member for offering exceptional problem-solving support.
However, a few customers have complained about the antivirus failing to load on Windows 11.
Ashleigh, another user, has also filed a complaint about Surfshark blocking the streaming of UK channels in the UK.
Streaming and Gaming Performance
Both NordVPN and Surfshark VPN support popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. NordVPN is designed to be highly reliable for bypassing geo-restrictions on various popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and many more.
If you opt for NordLynx, you will get fast speeds, which is perfect for streaming in HD or 4K. This helps provide smooth playback without buffering, even if you connect to an international server.
Surfshark VPN has improved its streaming capabilities and can unblock many popular streaming services. It is simply as reliable as NordVPN in this area.
Like NordVPN, Surfshark performs well with 4K streaming. However, it may experience buffering with long-distance servers a few times. This is a downside that NordVPN overcomes easily.
Gaming Performance and Latency
Both NordVPN and Surfshark VPN offer low latency, and that can only be appreciated. The WireGuard protocol used ensures both fast connection and low ping. However, NordVPN offers slightly lower latency than Surfshark. This makes it a top choice for competitive gamers globally.
Similarly, it is also a good choice for anyone who prioritizes minimal lag and long-distance game stability. Since it has a large server network and offers fast speed, you can consider it to be ideal for serious gamers worldwide.
It is also important to note that both VPN networks provide dedicated IP features or static IP servers for gaming. This feature helps prevent accidental bans by maintaining a single IP address, ensuring that you enjoy your game without any hurdles.
Advanced Features and Benefits
Both NordVPN and Surfshark VPN offer additional benefits, including ad blockers, tracker blockers, and malware blockers.
NordVPN offers additional features, including a data breach alert and AI-based phishing protection.
Here is a small introduction to some of NordVPN’s additional features.
- NordLynx: This is a WireGuard protocol version for NordVPN designed to produce matchless speed and performance.
- Double VPN: This feature helps ensure maximum anonymity for users who may want it.
- CyberSec: This built-in security suite can block ads, enhancing overall security.
- Obfuscated Servers: These are available to bypass restrictions on the internet. They are best used in inaccessible regions.
- Meshnet: This feature gives you an encrypted, private network. As a result, you feel safe when connecting multiple devices.
Some of the additional features available at Surfshark are:
- CleanWeb: This is designed to block ads, trackers, and malware.
- Multihop: Surfshark’s MultiHop feature helps route traffic through two VPN servers in various countries. This helps add increased security by providing an additional layer of encryption.
- Camouflage Mode: This one makes sure that your VPN use stays properly hidden from your network provider. This feature may be your best companion if you live in an area with high censorship.
- Whitelister: Surfshark is also known for its Whitelister feature. This one is designed to help you decide which websites or apps you want the VPN to bypass. You can use this feature to access all the local content while keeping the rest of your traffic fully encrypted.
Most of these additional features are not available in the basic plans for both VPNs. This is a bummer, especially if you only have the budget for the starter packs.
You will have to pay more to get second or third-tier subscriptions to get these features. These are expensive, so make sure you read all the details to see whether you need them or not.
VPN Connection Limits
There is a notable difference between the two VPNs when it comes to connection limits.
For instance, when using NordVPN, you can only connect to up to six devices in one go. However, Surfshark has a different story to tell. It has a major advantage here: it offers unlimited simultaneous connections under your single subscription.
When connecting multiple devices on either of the two VPNs, you are free to choose different types. For instance, you can connect smartphones, tablets, laptops, gaming consoles, and even NordVPN tv.
Final Thoughts on NordVPN vs Surfshark
NordVPN and Surfshark are two different competitors in the VPN world. They are very similar in many aspects, especially regarding speed, performance, and the availability of additional features.
However, NordVPN is a leader, and it is truly visible in its long and amazing server list. Plus, while it is not as affordable as Surfshark, it still offers good value for money.
Moreover, it is understandable from the reviews that NordVPN has an exceptional customer support team. It has trained staff that make sure to offer guidance as required.
Yet, its only drawback is the connection limitation, which is restricted to six devices at a time. You may not find this option suitable if you have a big household.
The final choice of NordVPN vs Surshark is yours. Make sure you evaluate each VPN provider’s pros and cons before making the right choice.
