Choosing the right VPN can be challenging with so many options available. NordVPN and Surfshark are two of the most popular VPN services, each offering a range of features to enhance online privacy and security. This comparison will break down the key aspects of these two services to help you decide which one suits your needs best.
Pricing
NordVPN offers several pricing plans: a monthly plan at $11.99, a 1-year plan at $59 ($4.92/month), and a 2-year plan at $89 ($3.71/month). They also provide a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
Surfshark is more budget-friendly, with a monthly plan at $12.95, a 1-year plan at $47.88 ($3.99/month), and a 2-year plan at $59.76 ($2.49/month). Surfshark also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Security and Encryption
Both NordVPN and Surfshark use AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard for securing data. NordVPN offers additional security features such as Double VPN, which routes your traffic through two servers for extra encryption, and Onion Over VPN, which combines the VPN with the Tor network for enhanced anonymity.
Surfshark also provides robust security features, including CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware, and MultiHop, which routes your traffic through multiple countries for added security. Both services have undergone independent audits to verify their no-logs policies.
Speed
Speed is a critical factor for VPN users. NordVPN has a slight edge in this area due to its proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is based on WireGuard and optimized for speed. This makes NordVPN one of the fastest VPNs available[1][2][3].
Surfshark also offers excellent speeds, thanks to its use of the WireGuard protocol. While both VPNs provide fast and reliable connections, NordVPN generally performs slightly better in speed tests.
Server Locations
NordVPN has a larger server network, with over 5,500 servers in 60 countries. This extensive network allows for better performance and more options for bypassing geo-restrictions.
Surfshark, while having fewer servers (3,200+), covers more countries (100+). This makes Surfshark a good option for users who need to connect to less common locations.
Compatibility
Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer apps for all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. They also support various router models, allowing users to secure their entire home network with a single VPN connection.
Additionally, both services provide browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, making it easier to secure your online activities while browsing the web.
Customer Support
NordVPN and Surfshark both offer 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and extensive knowledge bases. NordVPN’s support is run by an in-house team, while Surfshark’s support is outsourced. Both services are known for their responsive and helpful customer support teams.
Additional Features
NordVPN offers several additional features, including:
- Threat Protection: Blocks malware and intrusive ads.
- Dark Web Monitor: Alerts users if their credentials have been compromised in data breaches.
- Meshnet: Allows users to link multiple devices securely over long distances.
Surfshark also provides unique features, such as:
- CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
- Bypasser: Allows users to select which apps or websites bypass the VPN.
- GPS Spoofing: Changes your device’s GPS location to match the VPN server location[1][2][3].
Final thoughts
Both NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent VPN providers, offering robust security, fast speeds, and a wide range of server locations.
NordVPN has a slight edge in terms of speed and additional features, while Surfshark offers more affordable pricing and unlimited simultaneous connections.
Ultimately, the choice between these two providers will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
