Choosing the best VPN can be tricky, especially when two giants like NordVPN and Surfshark share the same parent. Both offer top-notch security and encryption, but they have different strengths to consider. NordVPN boasts faster speeds and unique features like Meshnet, making it ideal for power users.
Surfshark, on the other hand, is budget-friendly and allows unlimited simultaneous connections, perfect for families or tech enthusiasts. To help you decide, we’ve compared their speeds, prices, features, security, and customer support. Dive into our NordVPN vs Surfshark test below and find the perfect VPN to suit your needs and budget!
Specifications: NordVPN vs Surfshark
Specifications | NordVPN | Surfshark |
Servers | 6000 | 3200 |
Countries | 60 | 100+ |
Price | $3.39/month | $1.99/month |
Platforms | iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows, Linux | iOS, Android, MacOS, Windows, Linux |
VPN Protocols | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard (NordLynx) | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
Simultaneous Connections | 6 | Unlimited |
Ad Blocker | Yes | Yes |
Malware Scanner | Yes | No |
Trial/MBG | 30-day refund guarantee | 30-day refund guarantee |
Additional Support for | Router, FireStick, Xbox, PlayStation, Oculus Quest, Kindle Fire, Nintendo Switch, Raspberry Pi, Chromebook, Chromecast, Android TV | FireTV, Smart TVs including Apple TV, Android TV, Roku, and Chromecast, Router, Xbox, PlayStation |
Plans & Prices: NordVPN vs Surfshark VPNs
Forget jokes, let’s talk smart money! When it comes to VPNs, Surfshark wins the budget battle. Even their monthly plans are cheaper than NordVPN’s, and their long-term deals are unbeatable – think $1.99/month vs. $3.39! Both offer flexible payment options, but NordVPN adds cash and ACH transfers for unique needs. So, choose Surfshark for pure affordability, or NordVPN for cash-friendly options and niche payment methods.
Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer risk-free trials: 30-day money-back guarantees and 7-day freebies. But catch the fine print! NordVPN’s free trial works only on Android and unlocks for other platforms after signup. Surfshark’s trial starts on iOS, Android, or macOS. Choose wisely!
Plans | NordVPN | Surfshark |
Trial Period | 30 days Trial | 30 days Trial |
1 Month | $3.39/month | $1.99/month |
1 Year | $4.99/month | $3.99/month |
2 Years | $12.99/month | $10.99/month |
Security and Privacy Features: NordVPN vs Surfshark
Both NordVPN and Surfshark take your privacy seriously. With no-logs policies, RAM-only servers, and ideal headquarters locations, they offer top-notch privacy protection. Choose whichever suits your other needs, knowing your data is in safe hands.
Both Surfshark and NordVPN are security powerhouses, offering rock-solid encryption, a kill switch for ultimate privacy, and even cloaking technology to hide your VPN use if needed. Imagine a bank vault for your online data, with both providers adding extra locks and alarms for total peace of mind. Whether you’re dodging censorship or streaming your favourite shows, you can surf the web with confidence knowing these VPNs have your back.
Streaming Performance: NordVPN vs Surfshark
Forget buffering ruining your movie night! Both NordVPN and Surfshark boast lightning-fast servers to ensure smooth streaming, even at peak moments. Check your connection speed against Netflix’s recommendations, and remember – both work flawlessly with all the streaming giants!
Speed Comparison of NordVPN vs Surfshark: Which is Faster?
In the fast-paced world of VPNs, every second counts. Thankfully, Surfshark and NordVPN don’t waste them, both blazing a trail as top-speed contenders. Forget lag and buffering, these champions keep your internet running smoothly and fast.
Skipping the VPN first, we measured our raw internet speeds: download 272 Mbps, upload 215 Mbps, ping 5 ms. Then, using the fast WireGuard protocol, we tested both VPNs on local and international servers (Dallas, Sydney, Tokyo) to see how they compared to our unboosted connection. Here’s what we found-
Speed Type | NordVPN | Surfshark |
Local Server Download Speed (Mbps) | 238.46 | 236.50 |
Local Server Upload Speed (Mbps) | 190.08 | 179.71 |
Local Server Ping (ms) | 44 | 10 |
International Server Download Average (Mbps) | 181,09 | 189,06 |
International Server Upload Average (Mbps) | 60,5 | 59,92 |
International Server Ping (ms) | 237 | 237 |
Who wins the speed battle of NordVPN vs Surfshark? It’s a photo finish! Both NordVPN and Surfshark are neck-and-neck, with tiny speed fluctuations favouring one or the other day by day. The only noticeable difference? NordVPN’s local server ping is slightly faster, possibly due to a closer server location. But in terms of actual browsing and streaming, both providers will leave you zipping along. So, pick your champion based on other factors like price or features, not speed!
Why Surfshark?
1. Most Affordable
Looking to pinch pennies? Surfshark saves you around $30 over two years compared to NordVPN, roughly a buck less a month. But, this bargain comes with some small performance trade-offs. Wondering if NordVPN’s speed is worth the extra cost? Keep reading!
2. Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
NordVPN caps connections at 6, good for on-the-go. Surfshark lets everything roam free, perfect for techie households like mine with gadgets galore. No worries, no limits, just streaming joy for all your devices.
3. Ad-Free Searches
Craving ad-free searches, antivirus, and breach alerts alongside your VPN? Surfshark’s $1.49/month “One” add-on delivers, but remember, NordVPN offers similar antivirus and breach protection features, so consider both before adding to your cart.
Why NordVPN?
1. Fast Speed and Performance
If consistent, fast downloads are your priority, NordVPN reigns supreme. Our analysis of speed tests across 10 sites shows NordVPN maintains top performance almost everywhere, unlike Surfshark, whose speed varies more significantly. So, for reliable downloading, choose NordVPN, no matter your location.
2. Top Security and Data Protection
Ditch the upsell hassle! NordVPN comes packed with built-in malware protection and ad blocking, offering the full security suite for less than Surfshark’s “upgraded” option. No hidden costs, just straightforward peace of mind. Don’t get nickeled and dimed – choose NordVPN and skip the extras.
3. Fixed IPs
Businesses or solo users needing fixed IPs: NordVPN’s got you covered. Full, team-managed business plans or simple fixed IPs for servers/remote access, both options available. Bonus – check before signing up, fixed IPs aren’t everywhere.
Customer Support: NordVPN vs Surfshark
Both Surfshark and NordVPN offer top-notch customer support, with extensive online resources, helpful guides, and speedy 24/7 live chat. So, no matter when you need help, a friendly and knowledgeable agent will be there to guide you through any issue. Think instant answers to your payment questions with NordVPN, or a quick rundown of Surfshark’s antivirus features – they’ve got you covered!
Additional Features: NordVPN vs Surfshark
1. AdBlocker
Both Surfshark’s CleanWeb and NordVPN’s Threat Protection offer ad blocking and block malicious sites/phishing. But remember, they’re not antivirus so caution with suspicious links is still key!
2. Split Tunneling
Want some internet freedom while staying secure? Split tunnelling in NordVPN and Surfshark lets you choose which data goes through their encrypted tunnel and which bypasses it directly. This is handy for protecting sensitive stuff, streaming seamlessly, or keeping local devices accessible, all without sacrificing VPN speed!
3. Smart DNS
Forget VPN woes on smart TVs and consoles! Smart DNS unlocks restricted content on them easily, though setup might take some effort. Guides are your friends, and both NordVPN and Surfshark offer this useful feature. Ditch the limitations, stream freely!
4. GPS Spoofing
While a VPN hides your IP, it won’t mask your location from GPS. If you need to vanish on the map, Surfshark’s Android app offers a handy GPS override, while NordVPN doesn’t. Choose wisely, digital ghost!
5. Dedicated IP
Want a static IP that’s included in your VPN plan? Choose Surfshark, with 6 free options. Need a dedicated IP? Both offer it as a paid add-on. NordVPN boasts more locations, but Surfshark keeps it simple and cost-effective!
Also read: Surf The Web Safely And Anonymously With The Best Online VPN Service Provider
Conclusion
Both NordVPN and Surfshark are top-tier VPNs with similar annual prices. Surfshark shines if you need unlimited device connections or prefer a cheaper 2-year plan. NordVPN excels with dedicated IPs for businesses or individuals, and team privacy through NordLayers. Choose Surfshark for budget and device flexibility, and NordVPN for dedicated IPs and team protection.
So, when it comes to NordVPN vs Surfshark, both are winners and customers can easily choose according to their requirements and project needs. For more information, visit Feedhour.