Trying to figure out which VPN to pick between NordVPN and Surfshark? You’re not alone! It’s one of the most common debates you’ll see popping up all over Reddit, and for good reason. Both of these VPNs are consistently at the top of pretty much every “best VPN” list out there. But when you get down to the nitty-gritty, especially from what folks are saying on Reddit, it really boils down to what you need most.
Many Reddit users often lean towards NordVPN if speed, a massive server network, and a really polished, feature-rich experience are their top priorities. Think of it as the powerhouse with a slightly higher price tag. On the flip side, Surfshark is frequently praised by Redditors for being incredibly budget-friendly, offering unlimited simultaneous connections a huge plus for big families or tech enthusiasts, and still delivering solid performance. It’s the fantastic value choice.
So, is there a clear winner? Not exactly. While NordVPN often edges out Surfshark in raw speed tests and has a few more advanced features, Surfshark’s affordability and unlimited device support make it a seriously compelling alternative. Ultimately, the “best” VPN for you will depend on your specific situation. Don’t worry, we’re going to break down everything from pricing to privacy, performance, and what the Reddit community truly thinks, so you can make an informed decision and pick the right one for your online adventures. Let’s get into it!
Pricing & Value: Who Gives You More Bang for Your Buck?
Alright, let’s talk money, because for many of us, that’s where the rubber meets the road. When you’re looking at NordVPN vs. Surfshark, especially on Reddit, you’ll see a lot of discussion about how their prices stack up.
Surfshark usually takes the crown for being the more affordable option, particularly if you’re willing to commit to a longer plan. For instance, Surfshark’s two-year plan often comes in at around $1.99 to $2.19 per month, which is a fantastic deal. They also offer a one-year plan for about $3.19 per month. This makes it a go-to for budget-conscious users who still want a premium service.
NordVPN, while still offering great value compared to many other VPNs, is generally a bit pricier. Its two-year plan might cost you around $3.09 to $3.39 per month. A one-year subscription typically ranges from $4.99 to $7.99 a month.
Now, for those who just want to dip their toes in, the monthly plans are a different story. NordVPN’s monthly rate is often a bit cheaper at around $12.99, while Surfshark can be more expensive at $15.45 to $17.95 per month. But honestly, most people get these VPNs for the long haul because that’s where the real savings are. Review Surfshark VPN: Is It Really That Good in 2025?
Both services are pretty confident in what they offer, which is why they both have a 30-day money-back guarantee on all their plans. So, if you’re on the fence, you can try either one out risk-free. This is a solid perk that Reddit users frequently mention when recommending testing out both services.
Reddit’s take on pricing: Many Redditors will tell you that if affordability is your main driver, Surfshark is the clear winner. They love that it provides an impressive set of features without breaking the bank. NordVPN is seen as worth the premium for power users, but for sheer value, Surfshark often gets the nod.
Speed & Performance: The Need for Speed
When you’re online, especially streaming, gaming, or downloading big files, speed matters. Both NordVPN and Surfshark are known for being fast, largely thanks to their use of modern VPN protocols.
Both VPNs support the WireGuard protocol, which is super efficient and generally much faster than older options like OpenVPN. NordVPN even has its own custom version called NordLynx, which is based on WireGuard and optimized for better performance.
When it comes to raw speed tests, NordVPN consistently shows a slight edge. In tests conducted on a 1,000 Mbps connection, NordVPN often had higher download speeds. For example, some tests showed NordVPN at around 658 Mbps in London, while Surfshark was at 556 Mbps. Another comparison found NordVPN retaining 94% of base download speeds with NordLynx, versus Surfshark retaining 93% with WireGuard. This translates to a minimal average speed drop of only 18.6% for NordVPN in some tests.
However, it’s not always a massive difference. One Reddit user mentioned their experience: “It’s a 9 vs a 10. Nord’s upload is faster, but for downloads, Surfshark sometimes pulls ahead on the SG server for me. No major complaints there, it’s a solid tie.” This suggests that in real-world usage, for many tasks, both feel incredibly fast.
Where you might see a more noticeable difference is with the older OpenVPN protocol. Some tests found Surfshark to be significantly slower with OpenVPN, often staying in the 70-90 Mbps range, while NordVPN could still hit 200-270 Mbps. So, if you’re someone who might need to use OpenVPN for compatibility reasons, NordVPN might offer a better experience.
Reddit’s take on speed: The general consensus on Reddit is that both are fast, especially with WireGuard/NordLynx. However, many users agree that NordVPN often maintains a slight advantage, particularly due to its wider selection of specialty servers that are optimized for specific tasks like streaming and P2P. Surfshark VPN Quality: Is It Really as Good as Everyone Says?
Security & Privacy: Your Digital Fortress
In the world of VPNs, security and privacy are paramount. Both NordVPN and Surfshark are leaders here, offering robust features designed to keep your online activities private.
No-Logs Policy & Audits
Both NordVPN and Surfshark proudly declare a no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track, collect, or share your online activity. This is a crucial aspect for any trustworthy VPN.
To back up these claims, both services undergo independent audits. NordVPN has a stronger track record here, with its no-logs policy having been audited five times, including recent audits by Deloitte in 2022 and 2024. Surfshark has also passed security and no-logs audits by firms like Cure53 and Deloitte, with its first no-logs audit by Deloitte in 2022. While both are audited, NordVPN’s more frequent and recent audits give it a slight edge in demonstrating transparency. Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Guide to Online Freedom
Jurisdiction
Where a VPN company is based matters. NordVPN operates out of Panama, which is widely considered a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, away from the influence of intelligence-sharing alliances like the 5, 9, or 14 Eyes. Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which is part of the Nine Eyes alliance. While both maintain strict no-logs policies, NordVPN’s jurisdiction gives some users an added layer of comfort.
Encryption Standards
Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption, which is the industry gold standard and virtually uncrackable. They also support ChaCha20 encryption, which is optimized for mobile devices and provides fast, secure connections, especially when using the WireGuard protocol. Surfshark specifically uses AES-256-GCM, which it claims offers faster encryption speeds than NordVPN’s AES-256-CBC variant, contributing to faster VPN speeds without sacrificing security.
Kill Switch
A kill switch is an essential feature that automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing your real IP address from being exposed. Both NordVPN and Surfshark include system-wide kill switches on their apps. NordVPN takes it a step further by offering an app-level kill switch, allowing you to block specific applications from accessing the internet if the VPN disconnects, while other apps remain online. This offers more granular control for some users.
RAM-Disk Servers
Both providers have moved to RAM-disk servers, meaning their servers run on volatile memory RAM rather than traditional hard drives. This means all data is wiped clean with every reboot, adding an extra layer of privacy and making it impossible to physically seize data from a server.
Obfuscation
Sometimes you need to hide the fact that you’re even using a VPN, especially in restrictive network environments. Both services offer obfuscation technology. Surfshark has Camouflage Mode and NoBorders mode, designed to make your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic. NordVPN offers obfuscated servers that serve the same purpose. Surfshark VPN: ¿Qué es, para qué sirve y por qué deberías usarlo?
Reddit’s take on security: Redditors generally agree that both NordVPN and Surfshark deliver on critical privacy features like zero-logging policies and RAM disks. NordVPN’s Panama jurisdiction and more frequent audits often give it a slight perceived edge in the privacy department.
Streaming & Torrenting: Unblocking and Downloading
For many VPN users, getting around geo-restrictions for streaming and securely downloading files via torrents are key reasons to use a VPN. Both NordVPN and Surfshark are strong contenders here.
Streaming Performance
Both NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent at unblocking popular streaming services. I’ve personally had great success accessing platforms like: Unlocking Surfshark Automation with Python: Your Guide to Smarter VPN Control
- US Netflix and other libraries like Canada, UK, Germany, Australia
- BBC iPlayer
- Amazon Prime Video
- HBO Max, Disney+, and YouTube
They both deliver smooth, buffer-free 4K streaming thanks to their fast speeds. While no VPN is perfect and you might occasionally hit a snag, usually a quick server switch or clearing your browser cache gets things working again. NordVPN, with its larger server network and SmartPlay integration, might sometimes offer a bit more reliability for trickier platforms.
Torrenting P2P Support
If you’re into torrenting, you’ll be happy to know that both VPNs fully support P2P traffic.
- Surfshark allows P2P traffic on all its regular servers, though you might need to check their website for specific country availability.
- NordVPN takes a slightly different approach by offering a dedicated list of P2P-optimized servers spanning around 90 countries. This can sometimes lead to better performance for torrenting. They also offer a free SOCKS5 proxy for potentially even faster downloads, though keep in mind proxies don’t offer the same level of encryption as a full VPN.
Reddit’s take on streaming and torrenting: Users on Reddit consistently praise both VPNs for their ability to unblock major streaming sites. For torrenting, some Redditors appreciate NordVPN’s dedicated P2P servers for a potentially smoother experience, while others find Surfshark’s general P2P support perfectly adequate.
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User Experience & Device Compatibility: Easy to Use?
A powerful VPN is only good if you can actually use it easily. Both NordVPN and Surfshark aim for user-friendliness, but they have some distinct differences in their apps and device limits.
App Design & User Interface UI/UX
NordVPN is known for its visually appealing map-based interface, especially on desktop. You can pick server locations directly from a world map, which many users find intuitive. It also allows for easy selection of specialty servers and features within the app.
Surfshark opts for a cleaner, more minimal design. Instead of a map, you’ll find a straightforward server list that’s easy to navigate.
Here’s where Reddit opinions get really interesting. While NordVPN has a generally well-regarded UI, a recent Reddit post from June 2025 specifically called out NordVPN’s user experience as “frustratingly outdated and clunky” on Android and Linux, feeling “stuck in 2018.” The user noted issues like the quick-settings toggle not allowing favorite servers and just connecting to the “fastest” server, often a virtual one in an undesirable location. In contrast, this Redditor praised Surfshark’s interface as “clean, modern, lets you favorite servers for quick access, and just feels thoughtfully designed.” They felt Surfshark “consistently improved its UI over the last 2 years,” showing real investment in user experience. Download the installation script (replace URL with the latest from Surfshark’s site)
This isn’t to say NordVPN’s apps are bad. they are secure and easy to use for most. But some users, particularly on mobile and Linux, feel Surfshark offers a more refined and convenient experience with features like one-tap connection to a favorite server.
Simultaneous Connections
This is one of the biggest differentiating factors between the two, and it’s a huge point of discussion on Reddit.
- NordVPN offers up to 10 simultaneous connections per subscription. For many individuals and even smaller households, this is plenty.
- Surfshark provides unlimited simultaneous connections. This is a massive advantage if you have a large family, lots of devices smart TVs, gaming consoles, phones, laptops, etc., or want to share your VPN with friends or housemates without constantly logging out and in.
Reddit’s take on connections: Surfshark’s unlimited connections are a universal favorite among Redditors, making it a top choice for those with many devices or who want to cover an entire household. NordVPN’s 10-device limit is seen as adequate for most, but Surfshark clearly wins if device count is a concern.
Device Compatibility
Both VPNs offer broad compatibility across major platforms:
- Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Smart TVs: Android TV, Firestick, tvOS
- Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox, Edge
- Routers: Both can be set up on routers to protect all devices connected to that network, circumventing individual device limits.
- One Reddit user noted that NordVPN worked better with their home setup and required less manual configuration on routers.
- Surfshark’s Linux app offers a full graphical interface, which is a definite win for Linux users who prefer a more user-friendly experience over NordVPN’s command-line-only client.
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Unique Features: Beyond the Basics
Both NordVPN and Surfshark go beyond just basic VPN encryption, packing in extra features to enhance your online security and experience.
NordVPN’s Standout Features:
- Meshnet: This is a really cool feature integrated into the NordVPN app. Meshnet allows you to create secure, encrypted private networks between your devices, no matter where they are in the world. It’s perfect for securely sharing files between your laptop and home server while traveling, or even creating a virtual LAN for gaming with friends.
- Threat Protection Pro: This acts as a comprehensive security suite. It blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites, and even includes anti-malware protection. It’s so effective it received an AV-Comparatives’ stamp of approval for anti-phishing. The basic ad-blocker is included with all plans, but Threat Protection Pro is usually in higher tiers.
- Dark Web Monitor: This feature constantly scans the dark web and alerts you if any of your credentials like email addresses or passwords are found in a data breach.
- NordPass & NordLocker: Higher-tier NordVPN plans often bundle these, offering a secure password manager NordPass and encrypted cloud storage NordLocker for an all-in-one cybersecurity package.
- Dedicated IP: You can purchase a dedicated IP address an IP exclusive to you, which is useful for accessing IP-restricted services without constant verification, for an additional fee.
Surfshark’s Standout Features:
- CleanWeb: Similar to NordVPN’s ad-blocker, CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malware domains, making your browsing experience cleaner and safer.
- MultiHop Dynamic: This is Surfshark’s version of a double VPN, routing your traffic through two VPN servers for an extra layer of encryption. What’s cool is their “dynamic MultiHop,” which lets you pick and choose your entry and exit servers, giving you more control.
- IP Rotator: This feature periodically changes your IP address without disconnecting your VPN, making it even harder for anyone to track your online activity.
- GPS Spoofing Android: A unique feature for Android users, this allows you to spoof your GPS location to match your VPN server location, which can be super handy for certain apps that rely on GPS.
- Alternative ID: This lets you generate a completely separate digital identity like an alternative email address to help protect your real personal information when signing up for online services.
- Static IP servers: Unlike dedicated IPs which are solely yours, static IP servers give you the same IP address each time you connect, but that address is shared with other Surfshark users. This can be useful for certain tasks.
- Everlink: An upgraded version of a kill switch, Everlink not only cuts internet access if your VPN drops but also automatically restores it once a secure connection is back, without manual intervention.
Reddit’s take on features: Redditors often praise NordVPN for its deeper feature set like Meshnet and Threat Protection. However, Surfshark gets a lot of love for its unique offerings like unlimited connections and MultiHop’s flexibility, with some users even switching back to Surfshark for features like Alternative ID.
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Customer Support: When You Need a Hand
Even with the best VPNs, you might occasionally run into a question or an issue. Having reliable customer support is key. Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer 24/7 live chat support, which is the fastest way to get help. They also provide extensive knowledge bases on their websites where you can find guides and troubleshooting tips.
Reddit’s take on customer support: User experiences on Reddit can be mixed, but some comments highlight a difference in approach. One user mentioned: “Nord customer service is just so… stiff, they just won’t give you an inch and so uncompromising. For comparison, surfshark are willing to let me change my coupon code AFTER purchase, so i got 1 more free month just like that.” This suggests that while both are available, Surfshark might sometimes be perceived as more flexible or user-friendly in its interactions.
NordVPN vs. Surfshark in Australia Specific Regional Insight
For our friends down under, or anyone interested in regional performance, the “NordVPN vs Surfshark Australia” discussions on Reddit provide some interesting points.
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In terms of pricing, Surfshark is often cited as being cheaper than NordVPN in Australia, making it a popular budget-friendly choice.
However, when it comes to speed, NordVPN seems to have a more significant lead in Australia. For instance, tests on a US server from Australia showed NordVPN delivering around 93.5 Mbps, while Surfshark clocked in at a much slower 24.09 Mbps. NordVPN also reportedly maintained faster connection speeds with both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols when tested in Australia.
For streaming Netflix and other services, both VPNs perform well in Australia, unblocking content effectively. However, NordVPN’s larger server count might offer more options and potentially better reliability for unblocking content, especially those that are stricter at detecting VPNs.
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Reddit’s Verdict: What the Community Says
Diving into various VPN subreddits, you get a real sense of what users truly think. Here’s a summary of the recurring sentiments when discussing NordVPN vs. Surfshark:
- Speed: Many Redditors, while acknowledging both are fast, often give NordVPN the slight edge in raw speed and consistency, especially with its NordLynx protocol and optimized servers.
- Value: Surfshark is almost universally praised as the value king. Its long-term plans are incredibly affordable, and its unlimited simultaneous connections are a huge draw for the Reddit community.
- User Experience UI/UX: This is a point of contention. While NordVPN has a recognizable interface, recent discussions on Reddit point to Surfshark having a more modern, clean, and user-friendly app, particularly on mobile and Linux, with features like customizable quick-settings. Some users feel NordVPN’s UI is “outdated and clunky.”
- Features: NordVPN often gets credit for its advanced features like Meshnet and comprehensive Threat Protection. Surfshark is appreciated for its unique offerings like dynamic MultiHop, IP Rotator, and GPS spoofing.
- Privacy & Security: Both are considered very secure with audited no-logs policies. NordVPN’s Panama jurisdiction and more frequent audits give it a slight psychological edge for some privacy-focused Redditors.
- Simultaneous Connections: This is where Surfshark consistently wins on Reddit. Unlimited connections are a massive benefit for many users.
Overall, NordVPN remains a perennial favorite on Reddit into 2024 for its performance, features, and privacy. However, Surfshark’s affordability and unlimited devices make it the strong value proposition winner among budget-conscious Redditors.
Which VPN Should YOU Choose? Personalized Recommendation
after all that, who’s the right choice for you? Let’s break it down based on what you might be looking for: Surfshark VPN Portable: Your Ultimate Guide to Secure On-the-Go Privacy
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Go with NordVPN if:
- You prioritize raw speed and performance: If you’re heavily into 4K streaming, competitive online gaming, or frequently download large files, NordVPN’s slightly faster speeds and optimized server network might give you a smoother experience.
- You want a robust set of advanced features: Meshnet, comprehensive Threat Protection Pro, Dark Web Monitor, and the option for a dedicated IP make NordVPN a powerhouse for security enthusiasts.
- You value a longer track record of independent privacy audits: NordVPN has more frequent and recent audits of its no-logs policy, which can offer greater peace of mind regarding your data.
- You need specific P2P-optimized servers: While both support torrenting, NordVPN’s dedicated P2P servers and SOCKS5 proxy might appeal to heavy torrent users.
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Go with Surfshark if:
- You’re on a budget but still want premium features: Surfshark consistently offers some of the best long-term pricing, providing excellent value for money.
- You need to protect an unlimited number of devices: This is Surfshark’s killer feature. If you have a large household, many gadgets, or want to share your VPN without limits, Surfshark is the undisputed champion.
- You prefer a modern, streamlined user interface: Based on recent Reddit feedback, Surfshark’s apps are often seen as more intuitive, cleaner, and more up-to-date, especially on mobile and Linux.
- You appreciate unique privacy features: Features like dynamic MultiHop, IP Rotator, GPS Spoofing, and Alternative ID offer compelling ways to enhance your online privacy and control.
- You’re a Linux user who prefers a graphical interface: Surfshark offers a full GUI for Linux, unlike NordVPN’s command-line only client.
Both NordVPN and Surfshark are top-tier VPNs that offer strong security, reliable speeds, and excellent streaming capabilities. You can’t really go wrong with either. What it really comes down to are those personal priorities – whether you lean towards NordVPN’s slightly stronger performance and deeper feature set, or Surfshark’s unbeatable value and unlimited device coverage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which VPN is generally faster, NordVPN or Surfshark?
While both are very fast, especially with their WireGuard-based protocols NordLynx for NordVPN, NordVPN generally holds a slight edge in raw speed tests. NordVPN has been observed retaining a higher percentage of original download speeds and showing faster performance in various tests, particularly over longer distances.
Does Surfshark offer unlimited device connections?
Yes, Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections with a single subscription. This is a significant advantage over many other VPNs, including NordVPN, which typically limits you to 10 devices. This makes Surfshark an excellent choice for large households or individuals with many devices.
Are both NordVPN and Surfshark audited for their no-logs policy?
Yes, both NordVPN and Surfshark have undergone independent audits of their no-logs policies. NordVPN has a longer and more frequent audit history, with its no-logs policy successfully audited five times by firms like PwC AG and Deloitte. Surfshark also passed its first no-logs audit by Deloitte in 2022, and has had security audits by Cure53. Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate “Family Plan” for Online Security
Which VPN is better for streaming Netflix and other services?
Both NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent for streaming and consistently manage to unblock major platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. They both offer fast speeds suitable for 4K streaming with minimal buffering. NordVPN’s slightly larger server network and SmartPlay integration might give it a marginal advantage in reliability for unblocking some trickier services.
What are some unique features that differentiate NordVPN and Surfshark?
NordVPN’s unique features include Meshnet for creating secure private networks between devices, and Threat Protection Pro for advanced ad-blocking, tracker blocking, and malware protection. Surfshark’s unique features include dynamic MultiHop allowing you to choose your dual VPN servers, IP Rotator for constantly changing your IP, GPS Spoofing on Android, and Alternative ID for generating a separate digital identity.
Is Surfshark a good choice for users in Australia?
Yes, Surfshark is a good choice for users in Australia, especially if you prioritize affordability and unlimited device connections. It successfully unblocks streaming services and provides good security. However, for maximum speed, particularly when connecting to distant servers like in the US from Australia, NordVPN generally shows faster performance.
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