Surfshark and PureVPN are two well-known VPN providers, each offering a range of features to enhance online privacy and security. This comparison will evaluate their strengths and weaknesses across various aspects to help you choose the better option for your needs.
Pricing
Surfshark offers several pricing plans:
- Monthly: $12.95
- 1-year: $47.88 ($3.99/month)
- 2-year: $59.76 ($2.49/month)
PureVPN has a slightly more affordable pricing structure:
- Monthly: $10.95
- 1-year: $39.96 ($3.33/month)
- 2-year: $50.64 ($2.11/month)
Both providers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, with PureVPN extending theirs to 31 days.
Security and Encryption
Both Surfshark and PureVPN use industry-standard AES-256 encryption and support multiple VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard for secure connections.
PureVPN offers additional protocols like SSTP and L2TP/IPSec, while Surfshark does not. However, Surfshark provides advanced security features such as CleanWeb (an ad blocker), MultiHop (double VPN), and RAM-only servers, which add an extra layer of security. PureVPN also offers quantum-resistant encryption, which Surfshark lacks.
Speed
In speed tests, Surfshark generally outperforms PureVPN, particularly in streaming and torrenting performance. Surfshark’s use of 10Gbps servers and optimized protocols like WireGuard contribute to its faster speeds.
PureVPN, while offering reliable speeds, can experience occasional dips during peak hours. However, it still provides a solid performance for most online activities.
Server Locations
PureVPN has a larger server network with over 6,500 servers in 70+ countries, providing more options for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content from different regions.
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 Surfshark and PureVPN offer apps for major platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, as well as browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. They also support various router models for securing entire home networks.
Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, which is a significant advantage for users with multiple devices. PureVPN limits users to 10 simultaneous connections.
Customer Support
Surfshark and PureVPN both provide 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and extensive knowledge bases. PureVPN has an edge with over-the-phone support, which Surfshark lacks. However, Surfshark’s knowledge base includes a search option, making it easier to find relevant information quickly.
Additional Features
Surfshark offers several unique features:
- CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware
- MultiHop: Routes traffic through multiple servers for added security
- Whitelister: Advanced split tunneling tool
- SmartDNS: For accessing geo-restricted content
- Dark Web Monitor: Alerts users if their credentials have been compromised
PureVPN provides features like:
- Quantum-Resistant Encryption: Protection against future cryptographic threats
- Port Forwarding: Useful for gaming and accessing remote devices
- VPN over Tor: Enhanced anonymity
- Bundled Products: Password manager (PureKeep), file encrypter (PureEncrypt), and privacy auditor (PurePrivacy)
Conclusion
Both Surfshark and PureVPN are excellent VPN providers with robust security features and global server networks. Surfshark has a slight edge in terms of speed, additional features, and unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a better choice for most users. However, PureVPN offers a larger server network, quantum-resistant encryption, and slightly lower pricing, which may appeal to users with specific needs or a tighter budget.
Ultimately, the choice between these two providers will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed, advanced features, and unlimited connections, Surfshark may be the better choice. However, if you value a larger server network, unique security features, and lower pricing, PureVPN could be the better option for you.
