If you’re trying to figure out which VPN is best for you, NordVPN and Surfshark are almost always at the top of everyone’s list, and for good reason! Both offer a powerful shield for your online activities, fast speeds, and strong security. But if you’re like me, you want to know which one truly wins when you put them head-to-head. I’ve spent a lot of time looking into these two, and while both are top-notch, they really cater to slightly different needs. Generally, NordVPN often has a slight edge in raw speed and a larger server network, making it a go-to for power users who prioritize performance and comprehensive security features. On the other hand, Surfshark is often the champion for anyone on a tighter budget or who needs to connect all their devices, thanks to its unlimited simultaneous connections and competitive long-term pricing. We’re going to break down everything from their security and speed to how easy they are to use, so you can pick the perfect VPN that truly fits your digital life.

Table of Contents

NordVPN and Surfshark: A Quick Overview

When you’re looking for a VPN, you’re usually thinking about keeping your stuff private, accessing content from different places, and generally feeling safer online. NordVPN and Surfshark are two of the biggest names in this space, and they both do a fantastic job. But to really understand which one is your best bet, it helps to see where they come from and what their core offerings are.

The Shared Roots: Nord Security

Here’s a little insider info that might surprise you: NordVPN and Surfshark actually share the same parent company, Nord Security. This merger happened back in February 2022. Now, before you start thinking they’re just the same service repackaged, that’s not quite how it works. They still operate independently, with their own separate infrastructures, product development teams, and even slightly different approaches to features. Think of it like two different car brands owned by the same larger automotive group – they might share some underlying tech, but the driving experience and specific models are still distinct. This setup allows them to share knowledge and resources, which ideally means both services keep getting better.

Key Differences at a Glance

Even with shared ownership, these two VPNs have carved out their own identities. Here’s a quick rundown of what really sets them apart:

Price: Surfshark usually wins on long-term affordability, offering some of the lowest monthly rates if you commit for a year or two. NordVPN’s monthly plan can sometimes be cheaper, but its long-term plans are a bit more expensive than Surfshark’s.
Device Limit: This is a big one for many people! Surfshark lets you connect an unlimited number of devices on a single subscription, which is super generous. NordVPN, while still offering a respectable 10 simultaneous connections, can’t quite match that.
Server Count: NordVPN generally boasts a much larger server network, with 7,100 to 8,000+ servers in 118 to 126 countries. Surfshark has a strong network too, with 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries, but it’s fewer overall.
Speed: NordVPN, especially with its proprietary NordLynx protocol, often shows slightly faster speeds and more consistent performance in tests. Surfshark is also incredibly fast, thanks to WireGuard, and for most everyday uses, you probably won’t notice a huge difference, but NordVPN generally has the edge for speed-intensive activities.
Unique Features: Both have cool extras. NordVPN has things like Threat Protection Pro a robust ad and malware blocker, Meshnet for secure private connections between devices, and Double VPN. Surfshark offers features like Alternative ID to generate new online identities, NoBorders mode for restrictive internet environments, and Dynamic MultiHop.

So, right off the bat, you can see where one might be a better fit for your specific needs. If you’re outfitting a large household or an entire friend group on a budget, Surfshark sounds appealing. If you’re a single user or a smaller family who wants maximum speed and features, NordVPN might call your name. Surfshark vpn on asus router

Digging Deeper: Feature-by-Feature Comparison

Let’s really get into the nitty-gritty and see how NordVPN and Surfshark stack up in all the important areas.

Pricing: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck

When it comes to VPNs, price is often a deciding factor, especially for those looking for a long-term solution. Here’s how NordVPN and Surfshark typically compare:

Long-Term Plans: Surfshark generally comes out cheaper here. For a two-year commitment, you might find Surfshark as low as around $1.99 per month. This is a super competitive price for the features you get. NordVPN’s two-year plan usually lands around $3.09 to $3.39 per month. So, if keeping costs down over the long haul is your main goal, Surfshark usually wins.
Short-Term Monthly Plans: This is where things can flip a bit. NordVPN’s monthly plan sometimes comes in cheaper than Surfshark’s. So, if you just need a VPN for a month or two, NordVPN might be the slightly more affordable choice.
Money-Back Guarantee: Both providers are confident in their service, offering a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try either of them out risk-free and get a full refund if it’s not what you expected.
Bundled Plans: Both VPNs offer different tiers that include additional cybersecurity tools like antivirus, password managers, and data breach alerts. NordVPN’s higher tiers might bundle in 1 TB of cloud storage and robust malware protection. Surfshark’s “One” and “One+” plans also include things like a password manager and breach alerts, and even an antivirus. It’s worth checking their websites for the latest promotions, as prices can fluctuate.

My Take: If you’re thinking long-term and want to save some cash while still getting a fantastic service, Surfshark often offers incredible value. If you need a shorter commitment, NordVPN’s monthly price might be more attractive. Can Surfshark VPN Be Used in China?

Server Network & Global Reach: Where Can You Connect?

A large server network means more options for connecting, better chances of bypassing geo-restrictions, and potentially faster speeds because you can find a less crowded server closer to you.

NordVPN’s Network: NordVPN is a giant in this area. It boasts a huge network of over 7,100 to 8,000+ servers across 118 to 126 countries. This extensive reach means you have a ton of flexibility for spoofing your location and finding optimal connections. They have a particularly strong presence in Europe and the US.
Surfshark’s Network: Surfshark also has a very respectable network with over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries. While it’s fewer servers than NordVPN, 100 countries is still excellent global coverage, and for most users, it’s more than enough.

My Take: If having the absolute widest array of IP addresses and region choices is crucial for you, or if you travel extensively to less common locations, NordVPN’s larger network might be a better fit. For most people, Surfshark’s coverage is still excellent and likely sufficient.

Speed & Performance: Who’s the Fastest?

Nobody wants a slow VPN connection. Speed is crucial for streaming, gaming, downloading, and even just everyday browsing.

NordVPN’s Edge: NordVPN is consistently praised for its impressive speeds, especially thanks to its custom NordLynx protocol, which is built on WireGuard technology. In many tests, NordVPN retains around 94% of base download speeds. It often shows better download and significantly better upload speeds, which is a big plus if you do a lot of uploading or seeding torrents. Some tests in mid-March 2024 even showed NordVPN achieving download speeds of over 2,000 Mbps in the US and UK, and over 2,800 Mbps in the Netherlands.
Surfshark’s Performance: Surfshark is no slouch either. It fully supports the WireGuard protocol and delivers excellent speeds, with average global download speeds reaching around 188 Mbps in recent tests. Some comparisons show it retaining about 93% of base download speeds. While it’s very fast, NordVPN often has a slight lead, particularly in upload speeds.
Latency: NordVPN generally provides more consistent latency, whereas Surfshark’s can fluctuate a bit more. This might be more noticeable for real-time applications like online gaming.

My Take: For high-bandwidth tasks like 4K streaming, competitive online gaming, or large file transfers, NordVPN usually has the slight performance advantage. However, for everyday browsing and standard streaming, Surfshark’s speeds are more than adequate and you might not notice a significant difference.

Security & Privacy: Keeping Your Data Safe

This is arguably the most critical aspect of any VPN. You’re using a VPN to protect your online life, so knowing how these providers handle security and privacy is essential. Surfshark VPN in Albania: Your Ultimate Guide to Online Freedom and Security

Encryption Standards: Unbreakable Walls

Both NordVPN and Surfshark use top-tier encryption to scramble your data, making it unreadable to anyone trying to snoop.

Industry Standards: Both utilize robust AES-256 GCM or CBC encryption for OpenVPN connections and ChaCha20 encryption for their WireGuard-based protocols NordLynx for NordVPN. These are considered military-grade encryption standards and are extremely difficult to crack.
Authentication: They also employ strong authentication methods, like Poly1305, which helps verify the integrity of your encrypted data, ensuring no one has tampered with it.

No-Logs Policy & Audits: Trust, But Verify

A “no-logs” policy means the VPN doesn’t record your online activities, IP addresses, or other identifiable information. Both NordVPN and Surfshark claim to have strict no-logs policies. What really matters is whether these claims have been verified by independent third-party audits.

NordVPN’s Audits: NordVPN has a longer and more extensive history of independent audits. They’ve had five separate audits of their no-logs policy, with the latest ones in late 2024 and early 2025 by Deloitte. Previous audits were conducted by PwC. This consistent verification gives a lot of confidence in their privacy claims.
Surfshark’s Audits: Surfshark has also subjected its no-logs policy to independent audits, notably by Deloitte in 2022, confirming their commitment to user privacy. While they have fewer audits than NordVPN, the existing ones are from reputable firms.
RAM-Only Servers: Both providers use RAM-only diskless servers, which is a significant security advantage. This means all data on the servers is wiped clean every time they reboot, making it virtually impossible for any user data to be stored long-term.

My Take: Both VPNs are very secure and have verified no-logs policies. However, NordVPN’s more frequent and numerous independent audits give it a slight edge in terms of proven transparency and commitment to privacy.

Jurisdiction: Where Do They Call Home?

The country where a VPN company is legally based can influence its privacy posture, especially concerning data retention laws or intelligence-sharing alliances.

NordVPN’s Home: NordVPN is based in Panama. This is a big plus for privacy advocates because Panama has no mandatory data retention laws and operates outside of the “Five Eyes,” “Nine Eyes,” and “14 Eyes” intelligence-sharing alliances. This offers strong legal protection for user data.
Surfshark’s Home: Surfshark is based in the Netherlands. While the Netherlands is generally privacy-friendly and doesn’t require Surfshark to keep logs, it is part of the “Nine Eyes” intelligence alliance. For some, this might be a minor concern, but Surfshark’s strict no-logs policy, verified by audits, aims to mitigate this.

My Take: NordVPN’s jurisdiction in Panama offers a stronger privacy-friendly environment from a legal standpoint. While Surfshark’s location in the Netherlands is less ideal, its commitment to a no-logs policy and the audits confirming it still makes it a trustworthy choice for most users. Does surfshark vpn allow torrenting

Advanced Security Features: Beyond the Basics

Beyond the core encryption, both VPNs offer a suite of extra features to enhance your security and privacy.

Kill Switch: Both NordVPN and Surfshark include a reliable kill switch. This feature automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP address or data from being exposed. NordVPN’s kill switch is sometimes more customizable, allowing you to configure it for specific apps.
Obfuscated Servers/Camouflage Mode/NoBorders: These features are designed to hide the fact that you’re even using a VPN, which is crucial in countries with heavy internet censorship. Both VPNs offer this. Surfshark’s “NoBorders” mode automatically detects and applies the best settings for restrictive networks. NordVPN has “obfuscated servers” and “NordWhisper” for similar purposes.
MultiHop / Double VPN: Both provide the option to route your connection through two VPN servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of encryption and making it even harder to trace your online activity. Surfshark’s “Dynamic MultiHop” lets you customize your entry and exit servers, giving you more control over your connection path.
Ad & Malware Blockers:
- NordVPN: Offers Threat Protection Pro, which is a powerful tool for blocking ads, trackers, and malicious websites. It’s been highly rated, even by third-party evaluators.
- Surfshark: Has CleanWeb, which also blocks ads, trackers, and malware. While effective, some tests suggest NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro is slightly better at filtering ads.
Split Tunneling Bypasser: This feature lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN tunnel and which connect directly to the internet.
- Surfshark’s Bypasser is quite versatile, allowing you to exclude specific websites from the VPN, not just apps. Plus, it’s available on iOS and macOS, which is something NordVPN currently doesn’t offer for those platforms.
- NordVPN offers app-based split tunneling on Windows and Android, and you can achieve website exclusion via its browser extension.
Unique Extras:
- NordVPN: Meshnet lets you create secure, encrypted connections between your own devices or even with friends’ devices, regardless of their location. It’s super handy for secure file sharing or gaming, and it’s even available without a paid VPN subscription. They also have Onion Over VPN servers for extra anonymity when accessing the Tor network.
- Surfshark: Alternative ID is a cool feature that generates a new online identity including an email address and name for you, helping to protect your real information. They also offer a GPS Override feature on Android, which makes your phone report the GPS location of the connected VPN server, further protecting your physical location. A paid add-on, “Alternative Number,” provides a virtual phone number for sign-ups.

My Take: Both VPNs are packed with security features. NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro and Meshnet are standout offerings, while Surfshark’s versatile Bypasser split tunneling and Alternative ID are great for specific use cases.

Streaming & Entertainment: Unlocking Content

One of the most popular reasons people get a VPN is to access geo-restricted content on streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and more.

Excellent Unblocking: Good news! Both NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent at unblocking a wide range of streaming services. I’ve found both to be highly effective at getting past regional restrictions.
Netflix Libraries: In my experience, both can access numerous Netflix libraries. Surfshark, with its slightly broader country coverage, might offer access to streaming services in more “unusual” countries, as some reviews suggest.
Smart DNS SmartPlay: Both VPNs offer a Smart DNS service. NordVPN calls its SmartPlay. This feature allows you to access geo-restricted content on devices that don’t natively support VPN apps, like smart TVs and gaming consoles, without the full encryption of a VPN. It’s really convenient for those devices.

My Take: You can’t go wrong with either for streaming. Both are reliable for accessing your favorite shows and movies from around the world.

Torrenting & P2P: Secure File Sharing

For those who engage in peer-to-peer P2P file sharing, like torrenting, a VPN is essential for privacy and security. Unlock Global Content: Your Ultimate Guide to Surfshark VPN and AirPlay on Apple Devices

P2P Support: Both NordVPN and Surfshark fully support torrenting. They hide your IP address and use strong encryption, keeping your activity private.
Server Optimization:
- NordVPN: Offers dedicated P2P-optimized servers in over 114 countries, which can lead to faster and more reliable connections for torrenting. It also often has faster upload speeds, which is great for seeding.
- Surfshark: Allows P2P traffic on all its servers across its 100+ countries, meaning you don’t have to hunt for a specific server.
Extra Features: NordVPN also offers SOCKS5 proxy support, which can provide faster P2P speeds by changing your IP without encryption, though it’s less secure.

My Take: Both are solid choices for torrenting. NordVPN might have a slight edge due to its dedicated P2P servers and better upload speeds. However, Surfshark’s ability to use any server for P2P is very convenient.

Device Compatibility & Simultaneous Connections: Covering Your Devices

Modern households have a ton of devices. How many can you protect with a single subscription?

Unlimited Connections Surfshark: This is where Surfshark truly shines. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can install and use Surfshark on every single device you own – your phone, laptop, tablet, smart TV, router – and share it with your family and friends, all under one account. This is a massive value proposition for larger families or tech-heavy users.
10 Connections NordVPN: NordVPN allows you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. While 10 devices is more than enough for many individuals and small families, it’s not as generous as Surfshark’s offering.
App Availability: Both VPNs offer user-friendly apps for all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux Surfshark has a full GUI app for Linux, while NordVPN’s is command-line. They also have browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, and can be manually set up on routers.

My Take: If you have a huge number of devices or want to share your VPN with a large group, Surfshark is the clear winner with its unlimited connections. If 10 devices are sufficient, NordVPN works perfectly fine.

User Experience & Apps: Ease of Use

A VPN can have all the features in the world, but if it’s a pain to use, you won’t bother with it.

Surfshark’s Modern Approach: Based on what I’ve seen and from user feedback especially on Reddit, Surfshark tends to have a more modern, clean, and intuitive user interface. Its apps are often praised for being beginner-friendly, and features like favoriting servers for quick access make it very convenient. They seem to be constantly improving their UI/UX.
NordVPN’s Functionality: NordVPN’s apps are also well-designed and functional, but some users find the interface on certain platforms like Android or Linux to be a bit clunky or dated compared to Surfshark. While it offers plenty of options for advanced users, it might feel a little less polished or streamlined for casual use.

My Take: If a sleek, modern, and super easy-to-use interface is important to you across all your devices, Surfshark might feel a bit more refined. NordVPN is still very usable, but its UI might not always be as intuitive or up-to-date on every platform. Navigating Your Digital Footprint: Everything About Surfshark VPN Addresses

Customer Support: Getting Help When You Need It

Even with the best VPNs, you might occasionally run into a question or an issue. Good customer support makes a big difference.

24/7 Live Chat: Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer excellent 24/7 live chat support on their websites. This is fantastic because you can get immediate help whenever you need it.
Knowledge Bases & Email: Besides live chat, both providers have extensive online knowledge bases with FAQs, setup guides, and troubleshooting tips. You can also reach them via email for less urgent matters.

My Take: It’s a tie here. Both NordVPN and Surfshark provide top-notch customer support, so you’ll be in good hands regardless of which one you choose.

Who Should Pick Which VPN?

After looking at everything, it’s clear that both NordVPN and Surfshark are fantastic VPNs, but they really do excel in slightly different areas. Your choice depends on what matters most to you.

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Choose NordVPN if…

You prioritize raw speed and performance: If you’re a gamer, a heavy streamer, or you frequently transfer large files, NordVPN’s slightly faster speeds especially with NordLynx and better upload performance will likely give you a smoother experience.
You want the largest server network: With over 7,100 servers in more countries up to 126, NordVPN offers more choices for spoofing your location and finding optimal connections.
You value extensive security audits and a privacy-friendly jurisdiction: NordVPN’s numerous independent audits of its no-logs policy and its base in Panama offer a strong, proven commitment to privacy.
You need advanced features like Meshnet or superior ad/malware blocking: NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro is highly effective, and Meshnet is a unique tool for creating secure private networks.
You’re okay with a 10-device limit: If 10 simultaneous connections are enough for your needs, NordVPN provides excellent service.

Choose Surfshark if…

You’re on a tighter budget, especially for long-term plans: Surfshark consistently offers more aggressive pricing for its two-year subscriptions, making it incredibly affordable.
You need to protect an unlimited number of devices: This is Surfshark’s killer feature! If you have a large family, many devices, or want to share your VPN, the unlimited connections are a huge advantage.
You prefer a more modern and intuitive user interface: Many users find Surfshark’s apps to be sleeker, more beginner-friendly, and consistently updated with a better user experience across various platforms.
You need versatile split tunneling Bypasser on iOS or macOS: Surfshark’s Bypasser feature, which allows excluding specific websites and is available on Apple devices, gives it an edge here.
You value unique privacy tools like Alternative ID or GPS Override: These features offer creative ways to enhance your digital anonymity.

Ultimately, both NordVPN and Surfshark are exceptional VPNs that will provide strong security, privacy, and access to global content. Your personal priorities, budget, and the number of devices you need to protect will guide you to the perfect choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is NordVPN better than Surfshark?

It really depends on what you’re looking for. NordVPN often comes out slightly ahead in terms of raw speed, has a larger server network 7,100+ servers in 118+ countries compared to Surfshark’s 3,200+ in 100+ countries, and has a longer history of independent security audits. It also has powerful features like Threat Protection Pro and Meshnet. However, Surfshark is generally more affordable on long-term plans and offers unlimited simultaneous device connections, which is a huge plus for many users. Its apps are also often praised for being more user-friendly. So, “better” is subjective. it’s about which one fits your specific needs best.

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Do NordVPN and Surfshark have the same parent company?

Yes, they do! NordVPN’s parent company, Nord Security, officially merged with Surfshark in February 2022. However, it’s important to know that they continue to operate as separate companies, maintaining their own independent infrastructure, product development, and branding. This merger was more about consolidating resources and sharing technical knowledge to strengthen their position in the cybersecurity market.

Which VPN is cheaper, NordVPN or Surfshark?

Generally, Surfshark tends to be cheaper for long-term subscriptions, especially its two-year plans, which can be significantly more affordable per month than NordVPN’s equivalent plans. For example, Surfshark’s two-year plan might cost around $1.99/month, while NordVPN’s might be $3.09-$3.39/month. However, NordVPN’s monthly plan can sometimes be cheaper than Surfshark’s. Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees.

Can Surfshark or NordVPN unblock Netflix?

Absolutely! Both Surfshark and NordVPN are excellent choices for unblocking streaming services, including various Netflix libraries, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and many others. They both regularly update their servers to ensure they can bypass geo-restrictions effectively. Both also offer a Smart DNS feature NordVPN calls its SmartPlay that can help stream content on devices that don’t natively support VPN apps, like smart TVs and gaming consoles.

Which VPN offers unlimited devices?

Surfshark is the one that offers unlimited simultaneous device connections with a single subscription. This means you can install and use Surfshark on as many phones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and other devices as you like, and even share it with your household without worrying about device limits. NordVPN, while generous, has a limit of 10 simultaneous connections.

Is Surfshark better for privacy than NordVPN?

Both Surfshark and NordVPN are highly committed to user privacy and are considered top-tier in this regard. They both implement strict no-logs policies meaning they don’t record your online activities or IP address and use RAM-only servers which wipe data on reboot. Both have also undergone independent third-party audits to verify their no-logs claims. However, NordVPN has a longer history of more frequent independent audits five audits, latest in 2024/2025 compared to Surfshark’s audit in 2022. Additionally, NordVPN is based in Panama, a highly privacy-friendly jurisdiction outside of intelligence alliances, whereas Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which is part of the Nine Eyes alliance. While Surfshark’s no-logs policy mitigates this, NordVPN’s jurisdiction is generally seen as a stronger point for privacy. What Does Surfshark VPN Do? Your Ultimate Guide to Online Freedom and Security

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