Surfshark VPN Review

Is Surfshark VPN Free?

There are various subscription plans on offer with Surfshark:

• Surfshark’s monthly plan starts at $12.95, which is relatively expensive compared to some other VPN providers on the market.
• Signing up for a 6-month subscription plan cuts the cost to $6.49 per month.
• For the most cost-effective option, we would recommend looking at the provider’s 2-year plan which comes in at just $2.49 per month; this is such a low price for a premium VPN.

While we would not typically advise signing up for a long-term plan before testing out the service beforehand, there is a 30-day money-back guarantee for additional peace of mind. This means that you can test the product for a month, and if you decide you are not happy with the service, you can request a full refund, no questions asked.

There is also a 7-day free trial for Surfshark on Android, iOS, and macOS, allowing you to test the VPN app for yourself. Although we would prefer a longer trial period with support for Windows, too, few providers do not offer a free trial at all, and it is worth taking advantage of.

Surfshark offers various payment method options to suit all customers with support for PayPal, credit cards, cryptocurrencies, Amazon Pay, and Google Pay.

Surfshark VPN Sale

Surfshark VPN has amazing offers and massive savings on its VPN subscription plans, throughout the year. In fact, it is a rare occurrence to visit Surfshark’s website and not find a good deal waiting for users on the Surfshark website. The Surfshark Black Friday deals are always particularly great.

Although it is generally normal to find Surfshark sales, you can expect to find a great money-saving deal during certain times of the year. As mentioned earlier, Surfshark Black Friday deals and Cyber Monday sales are annual; however, there are also Christmas, New Year’s, and even Easter VPN deals on offer, with up to 81% off on plans.

Is Surfshark a Good VPN?

Surfshark VPN service comes laden with excellent features, is compatible with almost every device, and offers one of the greatest subscription deals around.

Surfshark boasts access to 3,200 servers across an impressive number of 160 locations in more than 63 countries. The server network includes physical and secure global proxy servers from third-party data centers.

Surfshark is compatible with macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, gaming consoles, TVs, and more. This is also a lightweight VPN proxy add-on available. No matter how many devices you own, you do not need to worry as there is no simultaneous connection limit with Surfshark. This means that you can use the VPN on all of your devices, and in theory, share the VPN with your friends and family members, too, all on a single subscription plan. Very few VPN providers offer support for unlimited devices.

The service is strong in terms of security and privacy, too, with secure military-grade AES-256 bit encryption, support for ultra-reliable security protocols, a strict no-logs policy, which has undergone an independent auditing process; Surfshark doesn’t save data on its network. There is also a reliable kill switch to ensure you are protected even if your VPN connection drops.

There is also GPS spoofing technology or Camouflage Mode, to mask the fact that you are using a VPN, as well as ad and URL blocking, P2P support on almost all of its servers, VPN chaining to reroute your internet traffic through 2 servers rather than just 1, zero-knowledge DNS servers, and 24/7 live chat and email support.

Overall, this VPN service provider is one of the greatest VPNs on the market regarding first-rate features, ease of use, and affordability.

Is Surfshark VPN Better than ExpressVPN?

Choosing the best VPN can be difficult, and it can be hard to compare providers considering the endless amounts of information available. However, we have done the hard work for you and have focused on the most important features to compare Surfshark VPN and ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable VPN providers on the market in 2024 and boasts outstanding features such as first-rate privacy standards, excellent customer support, and an extensive server network. However, Surfshark VPN is a great affordable and speedy VPN option with unlimited device support, high-speed servers, intuitive apps, and great streaming capacity.

Both providers offer easy-to-use, well-designed clients compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems and a decent number of servers.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Subscription cost

Surfshark’s short-term 1-month subscription plan is quite expensive at $11.95, ExpressVPNs 1-month option is $12.95. If you are ready to sign up for a longer plan, ExpressVPN’s 6-month offering is $9.99 a month. However, its 1-year plan is the most cost-effective at just $6.67 a month.

Surfshark’s 1-year plan comes in at $5.99 a month, but its 2-year plan is an impressive $2.49 per month, making it one of the cheapest providers on the market. Better yet, Surfshark offers many sales including Cyber Monday deals and Black Friday deals.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Security

ExpressVPN boasts an extensive list of security features, including 4 advanced protocols, a split tunneling option, and Perfect Forward Secrecy security software, which alters the encryption key every time you start a new VPN connection, and every 60 minutes thereafter.

Surfshark doesn’t compromise when it comes to user security and privacy either. It offers all of the necessary features, including ultra reliable security protocols, a reliable kill switch, private DNS on all Surfshark servers, as well as MultiHop technology. You’ll never suffer IP or DNS leaks with Surfshark and your network traffic will always be safe.

ExpressVPN also offers a strict no-logs policy to ensure you are never faced with privacy issues when using the service. The provider does not store user connection time, IP addresses, assigned IP addresses, or browsing data. It does, however, store the date you used the VPN service as well as your chosen server.

When you use Surfshark, a minimal amount of data is collected, including your email address and the billing details that you entered when you signed up. However, the provider does not keep logs of any identifying information that could be used to link you to your internet activities. The provider has also completed an independent security audit of its browser extensions; however, this does not cover its strict no-logging policy.

Both providers are transparent about the data that they log, which is reassuring.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Streaming

Many users choose to install a VPN for the sole purpose of access geo-restricted content on streaming sites such as Netflix. The ability to overcome geo-blocks is thus a vital feature of any VPN provider. ExpressVPN and Surfshark are successful at unblocking Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, and Amazon Prime Video, making them excellent streaming VPNs.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Customer support

Excellent customer support is another important feature of any VPN. ExpressVPN offers comprehensive support articles, email support, and first-rate 24/7 live chat support. Surfshark also offers similar guides, live chat, and email support. However, its articles are somewhat simpler than ExpressVPN’s.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark VPN

ExpressVPN and Surfshark are two of the best VPN services on the market, making it difficult to choose between the two. For the best experience, we would recommend ExpressVPN for its reliability and excellent user experience. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option, Surfshark isn’t too far behind in terms of quality.

Is Surfshark VPN Better than NordVPN?

NordVPN may be the most well-known VPN provider on the market, and it does offer one of the best services in terms of security and functionality. But, how does it compare to Surfshark’s excellent, affordable product? We have saved you time by comparing the key features of these popular VPNs.

You have likely heard of NordVPN as it is one of the most popular providers available, thanks to its unrivaled encryption standards, well-designed apps and clients for a range of devices, and powerful streaming capabilities. It is a relatively good value, too, at just $3.71 per month.

Surfshark offers excellent value for money without compromise. If you are looking for an affordable VPN that still provides a strong premium service, Surfshark is a great choice. And, for just $2.49 per month, you can use the VPN on all of your devices thanks to its unlimited simultaneous connections policy.

NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Subscription cost

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a VPN service is its subscription cost. Surfshark’s monthly plan is relatively expensive when considered with other options on the VPN market, at $12.95 per month.

However, if you are happy to commit to a longer-term plan, you will enjoy significant savings. The six-month plan drops to $6.49 per month, and the 1-year (12 months + 12 months free) plan costs just $2.49 a month, one of the lowest prices of any premium VPN.

NordVPNs monthly plan is slightly cheaper than Surfshark’s, at $11.95 per month. Its 6-month option offers a small saving and will set you back $9 per month. However, the most cost-effective option is its 2-year plan, which comes in at $3.71 a month.

When it comes to pricing, if you are happy to commit to a long-term plan, Surfshark is the most cost-effective. However, NordVPN is not far behind.

NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Server speeds

Fast server connection speeds are vital in a VPN. Strong levels are privacy is worthless if they significantly reduce your browsing speeds.

We ran speed tests to see which VPN company offers the fastest speeds. Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer excellent connection speeds no matter where you connect from. NordVPNs average connection speeds ranged from 125MB to 300MB. Surfshark was slightly more reliable but offered lower average download speeds of between 150MB and 160MB.

Overall, our speed tests demonstrated both VPNs are more than fast enough for the average VPN user. However, it will be necessary to determine whether speed or reliability is more important to you.

NordVPN vs Surfshark: Security

When it comes to choosing a VPN, protection and security are arguably the most important factors.

NordVPN operates on secure 2048-bit double VPN encryption and offers excellent features, including DoubleVPN and Onion over VPN, which utilizes the encrypted Tor network for the highest levels of privacy for slightly lower connection speeds.

Surfshark offers MultiHop technology, which operates in a similar way as NordVPN’s DoubleVPN. However, there is no option to reroute your data through the Tor network.

NordVPN supports OpenVPN, IPSec/IKEv2, NordLynx (Wireguard), and SSTP protocols, while Surfshark offers OpenVPN UDP and TCP, L2TP, IKEv2, and Shadowsocks.

NordVPN does, however, boast frequent independent security audits and a strict no-logs policy. This means that the provider completes impartial third-party audits of its servers and processes to confirm its privacy policy statements.

Overall, we would regard NordVPN as the winner in terms of security standards.

NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Streaming

Surfshark openly states its ability to bypass geo-restrictions on 15 Netflix libraries, including Australia, the US, Netherlands, Japan, and Italy. NordVPN is also successful at unblocking a host of overseas Netflix libraries. However, BBC iPlayer is slightly more difficult to access. Surfshark overcame iPlayer’s VPN blocks with ease, but NordVPN struggled to do so. It had the same issues for Amazon Prime too.

Thus, if you are looking for a VPN for streaming Netflix and other sites, we would be inclined to recommend Surfshark over NordVPN.

NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN apps

Well-designed apps are an important part of a VPN service. NordVPN offers a simple and clean desktop client with a map interface and a clear server list. Surfshark’s apps are even more simple and easy to use, offering just a server list. You can also easily alter your VPNs settings.

For a beginner VPN user, we would recommend Surfshark for its simplicity and ease of use; however, a more experienced user may prefer NordVPN’s more in-depth offering. This does come down to personal preference as both providers offer excellent, reliable apps compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems.

NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Customer support

NordVPN offers an extensive array of customer support guides, which a novice VPN user may find difficult to navigate. However, the content is helpful and comprehensive. Surfshark provides a decent range of guides too, which are somewhat simpler to access.

Both providers also offer 24/7 live chat support for immediate assistance if you run into issues while using the services.

NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN: Torrenting

Using a VPN is vital if you are a fan of torrenting, but is NordVPN or Surfshark better for P2P sharing.

Both providers support P2P sharing on some servers, and both can identify torrenting activities and switch you to a suitable server connection if you are not already connected to one. Both also offer a reliable integrated kill switch and useful split tunneling features.

NordVPN offers a much larger server network, meaning that you will be more likely to find a P2P server in your desired location. However, there is little difference between the two providers when it comes to P2P sharing and torrenting.

NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN?

Both NordVPN and Surfshark provide excellent VPN services that are some of the best available on the market. If your main priority is security and privacy, NordVPN’s frequent independent audits are highly beneficial, and at $3.71, it is relatively good value.

If you want the most affordable option, choose Surfshark. You will gain access to an extensive list of features and protection for an unlimited number of devices for just $2.49 a month.

What is Surfshark One?

Surfshark One is the company’s latest software development. It is a bundle consisting of three services:

• An antivirus service that protects your Windows or Android device.
• A lightweight browser that enables you to surf the web in total privacy.
• An alert feature that tells you if your credentials have been exposed in a data leak.

For just $1.49 per month, users can enjoy this extensive security package on top of their VPN subscription. It is great value for money, and highlights Surfshark’s commitment to providing users with total safety both on and offline.

Is Surfshark Private?

Surfshark VPN service offers a range of advanced privacy features to keep online activity and private data secure and ensure your identity remains protected. The VPN operates on ultra-reliable security protocols, including OpenVPN UDP and TCP, WireGuard, and IKEv2, as well as end-to-end encryption, hiding your data from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). A reliable integrated kill switch is also used to cut the internet connection if your VPN fails to prevent any unencrypted data from leaking.

The VPN offers its own private DNS on every server to further reduce the risk of spies or cybercriminals accessing your internet activities. There is also the option to activate a double VPN hop to encrypt your data twice rather than just once, making it even more difficult for anyone to link your browsing activities to your real IP address. This means that you can connect to a server location in one country and exit the VPN country in another.

Surfshark is located in the British Virgin Islands, a country that enjoys relaxed data retention laws. This means that Surfshark is not obligated by law to store logs of user activities.

The provider also offers a transparent no-logging policy to reassure users of its commitment to privacy. The VPN does not collect outgoing or incoming IP addresses, browsing history, downloading or purchasing history, VPN servers used, bandwidth consumed, session data, connection timestamps, or network data. RAM only servers ensure data isn’t stored on the server network.

If you use Surfshark, the only information that will be stored is the email address and billing details that you used when creating your account and some anonymous statistical information, performance data, frequency of VPN use, crash reports, and unsuccessful connections. While we would prefer to see some more information regarding the stats stored by Surfshark, the collection of such data is standard in the VPN industry. Users can also limit the data that is collected by disabling crash reports in the app Settings.

Surfshark also completed an independent security audit that was carried out by German Security company Cure53 in 2018. Although the audit was limited to the provider’s browser extensions, and it did not cover logging or other processes, it is reassuring to see this level of transparency in a VPN provider. The audit revealed two minor issues and concluded that it was highly satisfied with Surfshark’s strong security levels.

Overall, Surfshark is one of the best and fastest VPN companies when it comes to security and transparency. However, we would like to see a more detailed privacy policy and more frequent and comprehensive security audits.

Does Surfshark Support Windows?

Surfshark offers an excellent VPN app that is compatible with Windows devices. The Windows app is simple to set up; simply download and install the Windows client, sign up for your chosen subscription plan, and enter your payment details.

The Windows client is well designed and extremely versatile. The interface features a simple Connect button to connect instantly to the VPN, status information, and a clear list of server locations. There is also the option to expand the client window to view a larger list of options and new panels.

Connecting to a VPN server location is quick and easy. Tap the connect button, and the client will notify you of your new connection status. Although the location list does not display server connection latencies, the server icons display the best available options, and you can choose to save your most commonly used servers in the Favorites system.

There is also the option to choose from a list of Static IP addresses in Germany, Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the US. This means that you can receive a fixed IP address depending on the country you select, which will remain the same IP address each time you connect to the VPN. This is useful if you want to connect to an IP-restricted network when using your VPN.

The client’s system tray icons reveal a small app window instead of a typical basic menu. This enables you to connect to the best available server in speed and proximity, choose one of your most recent server connections, or access the full client.

A MultiHop option allows you to reroute your information traffic through two VPN servers rather than just one. This means that even if the exit server becomes compromised, a cybercriminal will not be able to access your real IP address. There are 15 MultiHop servers available with server addresses originating in France, Germany, Australia, USA, United Kingdom, India, and the Netherlands, and exit locations in France, Germany, Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, UK, USA, and Singapore.

You can use the Whitelister option to create an allowlist of websites, applications, and IP address the will run outside of your VPN connection. This tool operates in the same way as split tunneling options seen from other VPN providers. This is helpful if a certain app is not compatible with the VPN, adding it to the Whitelist should resolve the issue. This is a feature rarely seen in a desktop VPN client.

The client features a CleanWeb mode that blocks trackers, ads, and malicious links and the option to activate the VPN when Windows launches and choose between Wireguard, OpenVPN UDP, and TCP IKEv2, or Shadowsocks. A kill switch ensures your information is protected even if your VPN connection drops.

Is Surfshark Compatible with Mobile?

Typically mobile VPN apps are significantly more basic than desktop versions. However, Surfshark’s Android app is relatively similar to its desktop alternative. Both offer a similar interface, the same list of server locations, MultiHop connections option, CleanWeb malware, ad blocking, and the Whitelister split tunneling option.

The Surfshark app also features support for the same protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Shadowsocks, and a kill-switch to protect your activity if the VPN connection fails.

The Android app, available in the Google Play Store, even offers a choice of encryption methods (AES-256 bit or Chacha20Poly1305), small packets option to enhance performance on mobile networks, and the option to automatically activate the VPN when you connect to unsecured mobile networks. The iOS app is similar and features a kill-switch, OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard protocols, and more.

Surfshark’s mobile apps are well-designed and simple to use and offer much more than we would expect for as little as $2.49 per month. Installing Surfshark’s apps on any system is easy and quick.

Is Surfshark Good for Streaming?

If you are looking for a VPN for streaming purposes, Surfshark is a great option. The provider openly states its ability to access Netflix in 15 countries, including Australia, France, Italy, Japan, and the US. During testing for this Surfshark VPN review, the VPN successfully unblocked United States Netflix from a range of locations.

YouTube has only low levels of geo-restrictions, so it is not surprising that Surfshark successfully accessed YouTube content. However, BBC iPlayer can typically be more difficult to unblock, but Surfshark had no issues overcoming restrictions there either. Nor did it struggle to access Disney+ or Amazon Prime Video. Thus, Surfshark is one of the best options if you are looking for an affordable streaming VPN.

Is Surfshark Good for Gaming?

Although many gamers believe that using a VPN for gaming may slow down connection speeds, they can actually provide a range of benefits. Surfshark states that it offers fast speeds that are suitable for gaming. The provider ensures reliable speeds and low speeds across all of its server locations.

The VPN’s strong encryption can also protect you against DDoS attacks. Such attacks occur when gaming opponents identify your IP address and attempt to overwhelm your server to prevent you from winning a game. Surfshark’s servers are strong enough to withhold such attacks.

Using a gaming VPN can also prevent internet provider bandwidth throttling. Some Internet Service providers intentionally slow down user connection speeds as they cannot keep up with the constant demands of streaming and gaming. If your ISP identifies such activities, they may target you for bandwidth throttling, slowing down your gaming speeds. By utilizing a VPN, your ISP will be unable to view your activity and will therefore be less likely to throttle your speeds.

Overall, if you are looking for a gaming VPN that offers fast and reliable connection speeds, and protection from DDoS attacks, Surfshark is an excellent choice.

Does Surfshark Have Good Customer Support?

Surfshark is a great VPN company regarding customer service. If you run into any issues while using Surfshark VPN, its support section on the Surfshark website has a range of installation, setup, troubleshooting guides, FAQs, and other resources. Although this content is largely related to setup, including installation for routers, they cover the basics and are easy to understand, even for beginner VPN users.

Also, if you still require assistance, there is a 24/7 live chat customer service on hand too, where you can expect a response in a few seconds.

How Does Surfshark VPN Work?

When you activate Surfshark VPN, it creates an encrypted tunnel to connect your device and the VPN server. By rerouting your internet traffic through this tunnel, your activity appears as originating from the VPN server location rather than your device, hiding your real IP address and location. This makes it much more difficult for spies, malicious advertisers, and hackers to monitor your online activities. This is important as some ISPs may sell your private internet information to third parties for profit.

Author Cliff Durward

Hi, I'm Cliff. I'm based in Cleveland, Ohio, with my wife and two kids. I have a keen interest in cybersecurity and have been writing about it for around a decade now. Due to my background in computer science, I am familiar ...
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