Comparing Surfshark VPN

Surfshark Alternatives: A Detailed Comparison

Surfshark has quickly become a popular choice in the VPN market, known for its affordability, unlimited device connections, and robust features. However, how does it compare to other major VPN providers like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access (PIA)? Below, we evaluate Surfshark’s strengths and weaknesses alongside its competitors, helping you make an informed decision based on performance, privacy, compatibility, and value.

Compared To NordVPN

Surfshark and NordVPN are often compared as they both offer impressive features, but they cater to slightly different audiences:

• Speed and Performance:
  NordVPN edges out Surfshark in server speed tests, especially across distant locations, thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol. While Surfshark delivers reliable speeds suitable for most activities, NordVPN’s optimization makes it the better choice for heavy streaming, gaming, and high-bandwidth tasks.
• Server Network and Options:
  NordVPN offers a larger network with over 5,700 servers in 60+ countries, providing more options for bypassing geo-restrictions and ensuring low server congestion. Surfshark, while smaller, still covers 100+ countries, giving users a broad range of location choices.
• Device Connections:
  Surfshark’s ability to support unlimited simultaneous connections is one of its standout features, making it ideal for households or users with many devices. NordVPN, in contrast, limits connections to six devices per account, which may suffice for most individuals but lacks the same flexibility.
• Privacy and Advanced Features:
  Both VPNs maintain strict no-logs policies and employ military-grade encryption. However, Surfshark offers features like MultiHop (double VPN) and Camouflage Mode, which mask VPN usage from ISPs. NordVPN counters with its own advanced features, including Obfuscated Servers, Double VPN, and Threat Protection for enhanced privacy.
• Pricing:
  Surfshark is more budget-friendly, appealing to users seeking solid VPN features at a lower price point. However, NordVPN’s slightly higher cost is justified by superior performance, a larger server network, and advanced features tailored for privacy-focused users.

Compared to ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a premium VPN known for its simplicity and consistent performance, but how does it compare to Surfshark?

• Speed and Performance:
  ExpressVPN’s proprietary Lightway protocol gives it an edge in streaming, gaming, and other high-performance tasks. While Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol offers competitive speeds, it occasionally falls short of ExpressVPN in long-distance server connections.
• Streaming and Torrenting:
  ExpressVPN is renowned for its ability to unblock streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ with ease. Surfshark also performs well in streaming but occasionally requires switching servers to maintain access to certain platforms. Both VPNs are torrent-friendly, but ExpressVPN’s speed consistency makes it the preferred choice for heavy torrenting users.
• Privacy and Security:
  Both providers adhere to strict no-logs policies and use AES-256 encryption. Surfshark enhances privacy with features like CleanWeb (ad and tracker blocker) and MultiHop. ExpressVPN, while simpler, offers reliable protection and has undergone independent audits to verify its no-logs claim, further boosting user trust.
• Device Compatibility:
  ExpressVPN supports a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers, with user-friendly apps for seamless setup. Surfshark is similarly versatile but stands out with unlimited device connections, making it better suited for users managing multiple devices.
• Pricing:
  Surfshark’s affordability is a significant advantage, making it a cost-effective alternative to ExpressVPN. However, users who prioritize streaming and performance may find the extra investment in ExpressVPN worthwhile.

Compared to Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a well-known VPN with a loyal user base, offering customizable encryption and advanced privacy features. Here’s how it compares to Surfshark:

• Speed and Performance:
  Surfshark’s speeds are generally more consistent than PIA’s, especially for long-distance connections. While PIA offers decent performance, it may struggle with speed drops during peak usage times, making Surfshark the better option for streaming, gaming, and uninterrupted browsing.
• Privacy and Security:
  PIA’s strength lies in its customizable encryption levels, allowing users to balance speed and security based on their needs. Surfshark, on the other hand, keeps things simple with robust default settings and privacy-focused features like Camouflage Mode and MultiHop, which are ideal for users in restrictive regions.
• Streaming and Torrenting:
  Surfshark outshines PIA in streaming capabilities, consistently unblocking major platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime. PIA, while capable of torrenting and basic streaming, lacks the advanced unblocking capabilities that make Surfshark a preferred choice for entertainment.
• Device Compatibility and Connections:
  Both providers support a broad range of devices, including desktops, mobile devices, and smart TVs. Surfshark’s unlimited device connections, however, give it a clear advantage over PIA’s 10-device limit, especially for households with multiple users.
• Pricing:
  Both VPNs are budget-friendly, but Surfshark’s feature-rich offering makes it a better value for users seeking an affordable VPN with advanced privacy and streaming capabilities.

Choosing the Right VPN

While Surfshark stands out for its affordability, unlimited connections, and user-friendly features, its alternatives cater to different needs:

• Choose NordVPN for faster speeds, a larger server network, and advanced privacy tools.
• Opt for ExpressVPN if you prioritize streaming performance and simplicity.
• Go with PIA if you value customizable encryption and a privacy-focused approach.

Surfshark remains an excellent all-around choice, especially for users on a budget or those requiring unlimited connections. Use our detailed comparison tools to evaluate pricing, server speeds, streaming capabilities, and device compatibility to find the VPN that best suits your needs. Whatever your priorities, Surfshark and its alternatives offer reliable solutions for secure and unrestricted internet access.

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

While alternatives like Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost each offer unique strengths, NordVPN strikes the best balance between speed, security, and advanced features. Surfshark is a strong budget-friendly option with unlimited device connections, ExpressVPN excels in streaming simplicity, and CyberGhost is perfect for VPN beginners.

However, for users who prioritize superior performance, advanced privacy tools, and exceptional reliability, NordVPN remains the standout choice. Whether you’re a casual browser, an avid streamer, or someone looking to secure sensitive data, NordVPN’s comprehensive feature set ensures it meets and exceeds your expectations.