NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Complete Comparison
Detailed analysis of features, pricing, security, and performance to help you choose the best VPN
When it comes to choosing between NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN, you’re comparing two of the most popular VPN services in the market today. Both providers offer robust security features, competitive pricing, and excellent performance, but they each have distinct advantages that cater to different user needs.
This comprehensive comparison will analyze every aspect of both VPN services, including pricing structures, server networks, security protocols, streaming capabilities, and overall user experience. Whether you’re looking for the best value for money, maximum security, or optimal streaming performance, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
With over 1.75 billion people using VPNs worldwide and 46% of Americans now relying on VPN services for their online privacy, choosing the right VPN has never been more critical. Both NordVPN and Surfshark have carved out significant market share, but which one deserves your investment?
Quick Overview & Key Statistics
NordVPN
- 7,000+ servers in 126 countries
- Starting at $3.39/month
- Up to 10 simultaneous connections
- Advanced security features
- Excellent streaming performance
- Strong privacy reputation
Surfshark
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- Starting at $2.49/month
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Comprehensive security suite
- Good streaming capabilities
- Budget-friendly pricing
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Server Network | 7,000+ servers in 126 countries | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | Up to 10 devices | Unlimited devices |
| Starting Price | $3.39/month (2-year plan) | $2.49/month (2-year plan) |
| Protocols | NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Encryption | AES-256 with Perfect Forward Secrecy | AES-256 with Perfect Forward Secrecy |
| Kill Switch | Yes (Internet & App-specific) | Yes (Internet & App-specific) |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| No-logs Policy | Independently audited | Independently audited |
| Streaming Support | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime |
| Torrenting | P2P-optimized servers | All servers support P2P |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat, email, guides | 24/7 live chat, email, guides |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
Pricing & Plans Analysis
NordVPN Pricing
2-Year Plan (Best Value)
- 7,000+ servers worldwide
- 10 simultaneous connections
- Advanced security features
- Dedicated IP available
- 30-day money-back guarantee
1-Year Plan: $5.99/month
Monthly Plan: $13.99/month
Surfshark Pricing
2-Year Plan (Best Value)
- 3,200+ servers worldwide
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Comprehensive security suite
- CleanWeb ad-blocker included
- 30-day money-back guarantee
1-Year Plan: $4.99/month
Monthly Plan: $15.45/month
Cost Comparison Over Time
Performance & Speed Tests
Speed performance is crucial for VPN selection, especially for streaming, gaming, and large file downloads. Based on independent testing data from multiple sources, here’s how NordVPN and Surfshark compare:
Speed Test Results by Protocol
Regional Performance Analysis
| Region | NordVPN Speed (Mbps) | Surfshark Speed (Mbps) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| North America | 195 | 186 | NordVPN |
| Europe | 188 | 192 | Surfshark |
| Asia-Pacific | 165 | 158 | NordVPN |
| Latin America | 142 | 138 | NordVPN |
Security Features Comparison
Both NordVPN and Surfshark implement military-grade security measures, but they differ in their approach and additional features:
NordVPN Security
- AES-256 encryption
- NordLynx protocol (WireGuard-based)
- Double VPN (Multi-hop)
- Onion over VPN
- Obfuscated servers
- CyberSec ad-blocker
- Dark Web Monitor
- Dedicated IP options
Surfshark Security
- AES-256 encryption
- WireGuard protocol
- MultiHop (Double VPN)
- Camouflage Mode
- CleanWeb ad-blocker
- Whitelister (Split tunneling)
- HackLock (Data breach alerts)
- BlindSearch (Private search)
Security Audit Results
| Security Aspect | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Security Audits | Yes (PwC, ) | Yes (Cure53, ) |
| No-logs Policy Verification | Independently verified | Independently verified |
| Jurisdiction | Panama (Privacy-friendly) | Netherlands (EU jurisdiction) |
| Warrant Canary | Yes | Yes |
| RAM-only Servers | Yes | Yes |
Streaming & Geo-unblocking
Streaming performance is often a deciding factor for VPN users. Both services excel at bypassing geo-restrictions, but with different strengths:
Streaming Platform Success Rates
Streaming Platform Compatibility
| Platform | NordVPN | Surfshark | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netflix (US) | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Excellent | Both unlock multiple libraries |
| Disney+ (US) | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good | NordVPN slightly more reliable |
| HBO Max | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good | Both work consistently |
| BBC iPlayer | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Excellent | Equal performance |
| Amazon Prime Video | ✅ Good | ✅ Good | Both occasionally blocked |
| Hulu | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good | NordVPN more consistent |
User Experience & Interface
User experience can make or break a VPN service. Both providers offer intuitive interfaces, but they cater to different user preferences:
NordVPN Interface
- Interactive server map
- Specialty server categories
- Quick connect feature
- Detailed server information
- Advanced settings panel
- Clean, professional design
Surfshark Interface
- Simple list-based server selection
- One-click connect
- Integrated security features
- Minimalist design
- Easy navigation
- Beginner-friendly layout
Platform Availability
| Platform | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | ✅ Full-featured app | ✅ Full-featured app |
| macOS | ✅ Native app | ✅ Native app |
| iOS | ✅ App Store | ✅ App Store |
| Android | ✅ Google Play | ✅ Google Play |
| Linux | ✅ Command line | ✅ GUI app |
| Browser Extensions | Chrome, Firefox, Edge | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Router Support | ✅ Manual setup | ✅ Manual setup |
| Smart TV | ✅ Android TV | ✅ Android TV, Fire TV |
Pros & Cons Analysis
NordVPN Pros
- Largest server network (7,000+ servers)
- Excellent streaming performance
- Advanced security features
- Strong privacy jurisdiction (Panama)
- Specialty servers for specific needs
- Consistently fast speeds
- Professional customer support
NordVPN Cons
- More expensive than Surfshark
- Limited to 10 simultaneous connections
- Interface can be overwhelming for beginners
- Some servers can be overcrowded
- No native Linux GUI
Surfshark Pros
- Most affordable premium VPN
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Simple, user-friendly interface
- Good streaming capabilities
- Comprehensive security suite
- Native Linux GUI app
- Excellent value for money
Surfshark Cons
- Smaller server network
- Fewer country options
- Slightly slower speeds in some regions
- EU jurisdiction (Netherlands)
- Less mature than NordVPN
NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN Final Verdict
After extensive testing and analysis, both NordVPN and Surfshark offer exceptional VPN services, but they excel in different areas:
Choose NordVPN if:
- You prioritize maximum server options and country coverage
- Streaming performance is your top priority
- You need advanced security features like Double VPN
- You prefer a mature, well-established service
- You’re comfortable paying slightly more for premium features
Choose Surfshark if:
- Budget is your primary concern
- You need unlimited simultaneous connections
- You prefer a simple, straightforward interface
- You want excellent value for money
- You’re new to VPNs and want ease of use
Frequently Asked Questions
Both VPNs offer excellent speeds with minimal impact on your connection. NordVPN slightly edges out Surfshark in most regions, particularly in North America and Asia-Pacific, while Surfshark performs marginally better in Europe. The difference is typically less than 5% in real-world usage.
Yes, both NordVPN and Surfshark excel at unblocking Netflix and other streaming platforms. NordVPN has a slight edge in consistency, particularly for Disney+ and Hulu, while both perform equally well for Netflix US and BBC iPlayer.
Yes, both VPN services are owned by Nord Security since 2022. However, they operate as separate brands with distinct features, pricing, and development teams. This acquisition has not affected their individual service quality or features.
Surfshark offers better value for money, especially for families or users with multiple devices. At $2.49/month for a 2-year plan with unlimited connections, it beats NordVPN’s $3.39/month for 10 connections. However, NordVPN provides more servers and slightly better performance.
Yes, both NordVPN and Surfshark offer 30-day money-back guarantees. This allows you to test either service risk-free and get a full refund if you’re not satisfied within the first 30 days.
Surfshark is generally better for beginners due to its simpler interface, unlimited device connections, and lower price point. NordVPN, while more feature-rich, can be overwhelming for first-time VPN users with its extensive server options and advanced features.
Ready to Choose Your VPN?
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