PIA vs Surfshark VPN: Which One is Your Best Bet for Online Privacy in 2025?

Trying to figure out which VPN, Private Internet Access PIA or Surfshark, is the right one for you can feel like a maze, but let’s break it down so you can pick the perfect fit for your online life. Both of these VPNs are super popular, and for good reason—they offer a lot of great features to keep your internet activities private and secure. But while they both aim to do the same thing, they go about it in slightly different ways, catering to different kinds of users. PIA often stands out for its huge server network, its strong commitment to open-source transparency, and some really advanced customization options that tech-savvy folks love. On the other hand, Surfshark is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for an incredibly user-friendly experience, unlimited device connections, and a budget-friendly price point, especially if you snag one of their long-term deals. So, whether you’re a privacy enthusiast who likes to tinker with settings or someone who just wants to click and connect without a fuss, understanding their core strengths will definitely help you decide. We’re going to walk through everything from their security smarts and how fast they are to whether they’re good for streaming your favorite shows or for private torrenting, and even how much they’ll set you back.

Diving into Security and Privacy Features

When you’re picking a VPN, security and privacy are usually at the top of your list, right? Both PIA and Surfshark bring some serious firepower to the table, but they do have their own quirks.

Encryption and Protocols

Both PIA and Surfshark use AES-256 encryption, which is basically military-grade stuff. It’s the standard for top-tier security, making your data practically unreadable to anyone trying to snoop.

Now, for protocols, this is where you choose how your data travels, balancing speed and security.

• PIA gives you a lot of flexibility here, offering OpenVPN a longtime reliable choice, WireGuard known for its speed and efficiency, and IKEv2. What’s neat about PIA is that you can even choose between 256-bit AES or 128-bit AES encryption with OpenVPN. While 256-bit is stronger, the 128-bit can sometimes offer slightly faster speeds if you prioritize that for certain tasks.
• Surfshark also supports WireGuard for speedy connections and OpenVPN for solid security. They used to offer IKEv2/IPSec on Windows but recently removed it, though it’s still available on other platforms. Having WireGuard readily available on pretty much all their servers is a big plus for keeping things fast.

No-Logs Policy and Jurisdiction

A no-logs policy means the VPN doesn’t track or store what you do online, which is super important for privacy. Surfshark VPN Price in the Philippines: Your Ultimate Buying Guide

• PIA has a strict, audited no-logs policy that has been proven in court cases where they couldn’t provide user data because they simply didn’t have any. This is a huge confidence booster. They even had an independent audit by Deloitte in 2024 to reaffirm their no-logs claims, which is a big deal in the industry. PIA also uses RAM-only servers, meaning all data is wiped every time the servers reboot, adding an extra layer of security.
• Surfshark also maintains a strict no-logs policy, which has been audited by Cure53 and Deloitte, further solidifying its privacy claims. Surfshark also uses RAM-only servers, making it difficult for any data to persist.

However, there’s the elephant in the room: jurisdiction.

• PIA is based in the United States, which is part of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. For some privacy-conscious users, this can be a bit of a red flag. But, as mentioned, PIA’s no-logs policy has been repeatedly tested and verified, which largely alleviates those concerns.
• Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which is also part of the 14-Eyes alliance. Similar to PIA, its independently audited no-logs policy aims to counteract these jurisdictional worries.

Additional Security Features

Both VPNs go beyond just basic encryption:

• PIA offers a kill switch which is essential, really, shutting off your internet if the VPN connection drops, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling so you can choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t. They also have MACE, their built-in ad and malware blocker, which prevented 85% of ads in one test. You can even get an antivirus add-on for Windows for real-time protection. For an extra layer, PIA has a Multi-hop feature that routes your traffic through a SOCKS5 proxy server before the VPN, adding more anonymity.
• Surfshark also includes a kill switch, CleanWeb their ad and malware blocker, MultiHop which routes your connection through two VPN servers for double encryption, and Camouflage Mode which makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, helpful in restrictive regions. They’ve also rolled out an Antivirus as part of their Surfshark One bundle.

Speed and Performance

Nobody wants a slow internet connection, even with a VPN running. So, how do these two stack up in terms of speed?

• PIA generally offers impressive speeds, especially thanks to its large server network and the WireGuard protocol. In some tests, PIA’s global average speed was around 96.3 Mbps, putting it ahead of some rivals like NordVPN 75 Mbps and IPVanish 83.6 Mbps. However, some very distant servers might slow things down more noticeably. While it might not always be the absolute fastest for extreme distances, its long-distance speeds are still reliable, hitting around 80 Mbps even from New York to Japan in one test, which is more than enough for streaming and gaming.
• Surfshark is often considered a fast VPN, with average speeds around 104 Mbps in some tests, even outperforming PIA and NordVPN in certain scenarios. It’s generally praised for consistent speeds, particularly on nearby servers, making it great for 4K streaming and online gaming. While some reviews mention potential slowdowns on very distant servers, its overall performance is solid.

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Server Network and Coverage

A wider server network usually means you’ll have more options for bypassing geo-restrictions and finding a fast, uncrowded server.

• PIA boasts one of the largest VPN networks globally. While they don’t always provide an exact real-time number, they’ve previously claimed to have over 35,000 servers or sometimes 29,000 in newer reports across 91 countries. This massive presence is especially notable in the US, covering dozens of cities across all 50 states, which is a huge advantage if you need local US IPs. This extensive network means you’re more likely to find a server that works well for you, no matter where you are.
• Surfshark offers a respectable network of over 3,200 servers in 100 countries. This is a really good global spread, giving you plenty of options to connect from different regions. While not as high in raw server count as PIA’s claimed numbers, Surfshark’s wider country coverage might be more appealing for some users looking to access content from a very diverse set of locations.

Streaming and Unblocking

Let’s be honest, a lot of us use VPNs to unlock geo-restricted content from streaming services. How do PIA and Surfshark perform here?

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• PIA has significantly improved its streaming capabilities over time. It can successfully unblock Netflix US and UK, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. It also works with HBO Max and generally performs well with major UK streaming platforms. However, it has struggled consistently with Hulu in the past though some recent reports suggest it now works for most users and might have issues with services like DAZN, Disney+, and Sky Go. PIA does offer streaming-optimized servers, which often have a higher success rate.
• Surfshark is generally considered one of the best VPNs for streaming. It’s excellent for Netflix, working with many different country libraries Netflix US, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Max. Its “NoBorders” feature is designed to bypass even tough network restrictions, even working in countries like China. With fast speeds and no connection limits, it’s a strong choice for binge-watching your favorite shows.

Torrenting Capabilities

For those who rely on P2P file sharing, a good VPN is non-negotiable for privacy and security.

• PIA is a strong contender for torrenting, with P2P support on all of its servers. It boasts strong privacy features, high-speed servers, and a no-logs policy, making your torrenting activity private. A big plus for PIA is its support for port forwarding, which can significantly improve torrent download and seeding speeds. It also offers SOCKS5 proxy connections for an even smoother experience.
• Surfshark is also a top choice for torrenting, offering P2P-optimized services on all its servers except in countries where torrenting is forbidden, in which case it redirects you to friendly servers in Canada or the Netherlands. It combines robust AES-256 bit encryption, a kill switch, Camouflage Mode, and its no-logging policy to keep your P2P activity anonymous. While it provides good torrenting speeds, it lacks port forwarding, which might affect seeding capabilities for some users. However, its unlimited bandwidth and fast speeds still make it a reliable option.

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Pricing and Value

Price often plays a big role in the final decision. Let’s compare the costs and what you get for your money.

• PIA is known for being quite affordable, especially with its longer-term plans.
  • A monthly plan usually runs about $11.95 – $11.99.
  • A one-year plan drops to around $3.33 per month billed annually at $39.95.
  • Their best value is typically a three-year plan which often includes an extra three months free, bringing the cost down to as low as $2.03 per month billed upfront around $79 or sometimes even $2.19/month for a two-year plan.
  • All plans come with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. PIA also stands out by offering unlimited simultaneous device connections, which is excellent value, allowing you to protect your entire household on a single subscription.
• Surfshark is also positioned as a budget-friendly premium VPN.
  • A monthly plan is usually higher, around $15.45 per month.
  • Their more popular options are longer plans: a two-year plan often with extra months free can bring the cost down to around $1.99 – $2.49 per month billed upfront for 24-27 months, around $53.73 – $67.23.
  • Surfshark also has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Like PIA, Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it super convenient for multiple devices or sharing with family. It’s worth noting that Surfshark had a 33% renewal price increase earlier in 2025, making it less of an uncontested bargain than it once was, though it’s still cheaper than many rivals for long-term renewals.

Ease of Use and Apps

A powerful VPN is only as good as how easy it is to use. Mastering Your Surfshark VPN: Usernames, Passwords, and Seamless Login

• PIA’s apps are known for being highly customizable. This is great if you like to tweak settings and protocols, but some users might find them a bit overwhelming initially. However, they are available on a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and routers. They also offer browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. PIA’s app interface is generally well-organized and easy to navigate for newcomers once they get past the initial options.
• Surfshark’s apps are praised for their user-friendly interface and intuitive design, making them easy for beginners to pick up. You can connect to a default, fastest, or nearest server with just one click. Surfshark also supports a broad array of devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux with GUI, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Fire TV, Android TV, and routers, plus browser extensions. Features like split tunneling Bypasser are clearly laid out, making it simple to manage your VPN connection.

Customer Support

Sometimes you need a little help, and good customer support can make a big difference.

• PIA offers an extensive knowledge base with FAQs, articles, and step-by-step setup guides. They have email support with an average response time of just over 9 hours in tests, and the quality of the answers is often noted as being very good. While they might not be the fastest to respond via email compared to some competitors, the thoroughness of their answers is a plus.
• Surfshark provides 24/7 live chat support, which is usually the quickest way to get help. They also have an extensive online help center for self-service. While some older reviews mentioned less-than-stellar support when it came to cancelling for a refund, current feedback generally points to responsive and helpful assistance.

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The Verdict: Which VPN Should You Choose?

So, after all that, which VPN comes out on top? It really depends on what you’re looking for, but here’s the quick rundown.

Choose PIA if:

• You’re a privacy enthusiast who loves customizing your VPN experience with advanced settings and different encryption levels.
• You want the largest possible server network, especially if you frequently need a variety of US-based IP addresses.
• Port forwarding for torrenting is a must-have for you, as PIA excels here.
• You appreciate a proven no-logs policy backed by court cases and multiple independent audits like the 2024 Deloitte audit.
• You want to protect unlimited devices without breaking the bank on a long-term plan.

Choose Surfshark if:

• You’re looking for an incredibly user-friendly and intuitive experience right out of the box.
• You primarily need a VPN for streaming geo-restricted content across many different platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer, as Surfshark is often highly reliable for this.
• You have a lot of devices or a big family and need unlimited simultaneous connections.
• You want a budget-friendly option with excellent features, especially if you can commit to a two-year plan.
• Extra features like a built-in antivirus with Surfshark One or Camouflage Mode for bypassing strict network restrictions appeal to you.

Both PIA and Surfshark are strong contenders in the VPN market, offering robust security, decent speeds, and reliable privacy. While PIA might appeal to the more technical user looking for extensive customization and a truly massive server count, Surfshark shines with its user-friendliness, broad country coverage, and excellent streaming performance for a very competitive price. Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either, but hopefully, this breakdown helps you pinpoint the one that perfectly fits your digital lifestyle. Getting Surfshark VPN’s OpenVPN Up and Running: Your Complete Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PIA a good VPN in 2025?

Yes, PIA continues to be a very good VPN in 2025. It stands out with a robust set of security features, including AES-256 encryption and a reliable kill switch, alongside a verified no-logs policy that has been proven in court and audited by Deloitte. It boasts one of the largest server networks in the industry, with over 29,000 to 35,000 servers in 91 countries, offering excellent global coverage and plenty of options for fast connections. PIA is also great for torrenting due to P2P support on all servers and its port forwarding feature, which boosts speeds. While its streaming capabilities have improved and it can unblock many popular services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, it might still struggle with a few specific platforms. It also offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a great value, especially on its long-term plans.

Is Surfshark a good VPN for privacy and security?

Absolutely, Surfshark is a very good VPN for privacy and security. It employs strong AES-256-GCM encryption and upholds a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited by Cure53 and Deloitte. Surfshark also uses RAM-only servers, ensuring no data persists after a reboot. Key security features include a kill switch, CleanWeb for ad and malware blocking, and MultiHop for double VPN protection. Even though it’s based in the Netherlands, a 14-Eyes alliance country, its strong commitment to its no-logs policy and robust security measures effectively mitigate these concerns.

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Does PIA VPN still have 35,000 servers?

PIA has previously claimed to have over 35,000 servers, and some recent reports still cite this number. Other current sources mention over 29,000 servers in 91 countries. While the exact real-time number can fluctuate and PIA doesn’t always publicize an exact figure, it undeniably maintains one of the largest server networks available. The sheer scale of its network means you’ll consistently find plenty of options, minimizing congestion and offering a wide range of IP addresses.

Can Surfshark unblock Netflix reliably?

Yes, Surfshark is widely regarded as one of the best VPNs for unblocking Netflix and other streaming services reliably. It consistently works with many different Netflix libraries, including the US and UK, as well as platforms like Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Hulu. Its fast speeds, large IP address pool, and features like NoBorders Mode help it bypass geo-restrictions effectively, even in regions with strong VPN blocking.

Is PIA VPN better than NordVPN or ExpressVPN?

When comparing PIA VPN to giants like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, it really depends on what you value most. PIA often wins on affordability and server count, offering significantly cheaper long-term plans and a massive network, sometimes with over 35,000 servers. It’s also excellent for torrenting due to its widespread P2P support and port forwarding. However, NordVPN and ExpressVPN might offer more consistent top-tier speeds on distant servers and a slightly more polished, user-friendly experience for beginners. For streaming, NordVPN and ExpressVPN are often cited as more consistently reliable across a wider range of services, though PIA has significantly improved. So, if budget and extensive customization are key, PIA is a strong contender, but if you prioritize maximum speed and seamless unblocking with a slightly higher price tag, the others might have a slight edge.

How strong is PIA VPN’s security?

PIA VPN offers very strong security. It uses military-grade AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard for protecting your data. It supports secure protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, giving you flexibility to choose between speed and the highest level of security. Crucially, it includes an automatic kill switch to prevent IP leaks if your VPN connection drops and provides DNS leak protection. PIA also stands out with its verified no-logs policy, which has been repeatedly proven in court and confirmed by independent audits, including one by Deloitte in 2024. The use of RAM-only servers further enhances privacy by ensuring no data is stored long-term. For added protection, it features MACE ad/malware blocker and even offers an antivirus add-on. Despite its US jurisdiction, these robust, independently verified security measures make PIA a very strong choice for online protection. Does Surfshark Have Onion Over VPN?