Surfshark or vpn

Struggling to figure out if Surfshark is the right VPN for you, or even what a VPN really is? Don’t worry, you’re in the right place! We’re going to break down everything you need to know about Virtual Private Networks, zoom in on Surfshark, and see how it stacks up against some of the big names out there like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Proton VPN. By the end of this, you’ll have a clear picture of whether Surfshark is your perfect online privacy sidekick, especially if you’re looking for a service that’s affordable, packed with features, and lets you connect all your gadgets.

The internet can feel like a wild, open place, and keeping your online life private and secure is more important than ever. That’s where a VPN comes in handy. Think of it as your own personal, encrypted tunnel through the internet, keeping your data safe from prying eyes. Surfshark has carved out a solid reputation, especially for folks who want great value without compromising on essential security and convenience. It’s often praised for its unlimited device connections, which is a massive plus for households with lots of screens, and its ability to effortlessly unblock streaming content from around the globe. While its renewal prices have seen a bump, it still generally offers a more budget-friendly option compared to some competitors. So, if you’re someone who uses many devices, loves streaming, or just wants robust protection without spending a fortune, Surfshark is definitely worth a closer look.

What is a VPN, and Why Do You Actually Need One?

Alright, let’s start with the basics. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is essentially a service that encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in a location you choose. This does a couple of really important things:

0.0 0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews) Excellent0% Very good0% Average0% Poor0% Terrible0% There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. Your review Your overall rating Select a Rating5 Stars4 Stars3 Stars2 Stars1 Star Title of your review Your review Your name Your email This review is based on my own experience and is my genuine opinion. ​ Submit Review

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Surfshark or vpn Latest Discussions & Reviews:

• Hides Your IP Address and Location: Your IP address is like your internet home address. A VPN masks this, making it look like you’re browsing from the location of the VPN server you’re connected to, not your actual physical spot. This is super handy for privacy and accessing content that might be restricted in your region.
• Encrypts Your Data: When your data travels through the VPN tunnel, it’s scrambled encrypted. This means if anyone tries to snoop on your connection, like hackers on public Wi-Fi or even your internet service provider ISP, they’ll just see a jumbled mess, not your actual online activity.
• Enhances Security on Public Wi-Fi: You know those free Wi-Fi spots at coffee shops or airports? They’re often not very secure. A VPN adds a crucial layer of encryption, protecting your data from potential threats lurking on those networks.
• Bypasses Geo-Restrictions: Ever tried to watch a show only to get that annoying “not available in your region” message? A VPN can help you “virtually” change your location, letting you access content that’s usually blocked where you are.
• Prevents Bandwidth Throttling: Sometimes, ISPs slow down your internet speed based on what you’re doing online, like streaming or gaming. A VPN can hide your activity, potentially preventing this kind of targeted slowdown.

In short, a VPN gives you more control over your online privacy, security, and freedom. It’s a tool that everyone who spends time online should consider.

Introducing Surfshark: A Strong Contender in the VPN World

Now, let’s talk about Surfshark. This VPN provider has quickly made a name for itself since launching in 2018, often praised for offering a ton of features at a really competitive price point. It’s based in the Netherlands, which is a jurisdiction with robust privacy laws.

Which is Better: NordVPN or Surfshark VPN? (2025 Ultimate Showdown)

One of Surfshark’s biggest selling points, and a huge reason many people choose it, is its unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can install and use Surfshark on as many devices as you own – your laptop, phone, tablet, smart TV, game console, you name it – all with just one subscription. This is a must for families or anyone with a lot of gadgets.

Surfshark also boasts a large network of over 3,200 servers spread across more than 100 countries. This wide reach helps ensure you can find a fast, reliable connection no matter where you are or what content you’re trying to access. Plus, their servers are 10Gbps and RAM-only, which adds to both speed and privacy.

It’s also known for being user-friendly, with intuitive apps that are easy to navigate across all major platforms. Whether you’re a VPN newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll likely find Surfshark’s interface straightforward. Many users, including those on Reddit, appreciate its ease of use and consistent performance.

Surfshark VPN vs. NordVPN: The Head-to-Head

When people talk about VPNs, NordVPN almost always comes up, and for good reason. It’s a powerhouse, but how does Surfshark compare? Let’s break it down.

Surfshark OpenVPN: Your Comprehensive Guide to Manual Setup and Beyond

Speed and Performance

Both Surfshark and NordVPN are known for their impressive speeds, often leveraging the WireGuard protocol NordVPN uses its proprietary NordLynx, which is an optimized version of WireGuard. In recent tests, NordVPN often retains speed slightly better, but honestly, the difference is often so small that you’d barely notice it in your daily browsing or streaming. Surfshark has been shown to have around a 21% speed loss in 2025 tests, while NordVPN might be slightly lower. Both are blazing fast for most activities.

Features

Both VPNs are feature-rich, but they have some different highlights:

• Simultaneous Connections: This is where Surfshark really shines. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections. NordVPN, while generous, typically caps out at 10 devices. If you have a large family or lots of devices, Surfshark offers better value here.
• Server Network: NordVPN often boasts a larger number of servers over 7,000+ in 118 countries, but Surfshark isn’t far behind with 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. More servers can mean less congestion, but Surfshark’s network is still extensive enough for most users.
• Security & Privacy: Both offer strong AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy independently audited for both, and essential features like a kill switch.
  • Surfshark Extras: CleanWeb ad, tracker, and malware blocker, Bypasser split tunneling, MultiHop double VPN, NoBorders mode for restrictive networks, and IP Rotator. Some plans also include antivirus and private search.
  • NordVPN Extras: Threat Protection Pro ad blocker, malware scanner, Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, Dark Web Monitor, and a password manager.
• Streaming: Both are excellent for unblocking geo-restricted content on services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu. Surfshark is known to access over 16+ Netflix regional libraries.
• User Interface: NordVPN is often praised for its sleek and intuitive apps. Surfshark also offers a user-friendly experience, though some might find NordVPN’s interface slightly cleaner or more consistent.

Pricing

Surfshark typically beats NordVPN on price, especially for longer-term plans. While Surfshark’s renewal prices have increased to about $79 annually, it’s still significantly cheaper than NordVPN’s annual renewal, which can be around $140. For instance, a 24-month Surfshark Starter plan can be as low as $1.99/month, while NordVPN’s 24-month plan is around $2.59/month.

Reddit Opinion Surfshark or NordVPN Reddit

On Reddit, you’ll find a lively debate. Many users often lean towards Surfshark for its unlimited connections and aggressive pricing, seeing it as fantastic value for money. However, NordVPN also has a strong following, often cited for its slightly higher speeds and robust security features. Some Reddit threads in 2025 suggest Surfshark is ranked as the second-best VPN by the community. How to Change Location on Surfshark VPN

The Takeaway: If you need unlimited device connections and the absolute lowest price for a premium VPN, Surfshark is a phenomenal choice. If slightly faster speeds and a few extra privacy-focused tools like Onion Over VPN are your priority, and you don’t mind a slightly higher price, NordVPN is also a strong contender.

Surfshark VPN vs. ExpressVPN: Premium vs. Value

ExpressVPN is often considered a premium VPN, known for its strong performance and ease of use. Let’s see how Surfshark holds up against it.

ExpressVPN is consistently fast, often showing very low speed loss. Surfshark has also proven to be very fast, with some tests even showing it offering faster connections than ExpressVPN. For example, in 2025 tests, Surfshark had a 21% speed loss, while ExpressVPN had an 18% loss. Both are excellent, and you’d likely not notice a significant difference in everyday use. How to Get Surfshark VPN on Your Samsung TV: Your Ultimate Guide

Both offer core VPN features like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and audited no-logs policies.

• Simultaneous Connections: Again, Surfshark pulls ahead with unlimited devices. ExpressVPN allows up to 8 simultaneous connections.
• Server Network: ExpressVPN has servers in 105 countries with over 3,000 servers. Surfshark has a slightly broader reach with 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. Both offer excellent global coverage.
• Special Features: ExpressVPN is known for its proprietary Lightway protocol, which is designed for speed and security. Surfshark offers its unique features like CleanWeb, MultiHop, Bypasser, and IP Rotator, which are highly valued by users.
• Streaming: Both are top-tier for streaming, reliably unblocking popular services. ExpressVPN is often cited as being exceptionally good for unblocking content, especially in countries with strict censorship.

This is where the biggest difference lies. Surfshark is significantly more affordable than ExpressVPN. ExpressVPN’s annual renewal can be quite high, often around $100-$117 a year. Surfshark’s 24-month plan can be as low as $1.99/month, while ExpressVPN’s equivalent long-term plan might be around $4.99/month.

Reddit Opinion Surfshark or ExpressVPN Reddit

Reddit users often discuss the trade-off between ExpressVPN’s premium price and its perceived reliability, especially for router setups. Many acknowledge ExpressVPN’s strong performance but often point to Surfshark as offering superior value for money due to its unlimited connections and lower cost. Some reviews suggest ExpressVPN’s apps are “slicker”, while Surfshark’s interface is still considered very user-friendly.

The Takeaway: If you’re looking for a consistently high-performing, easy-to-use VPN and budget isn’t your primary concern, ExpressVPN is a fantastic choice. However, if you want similar performance and a massive saving, especially with unlimited device connections, Surfshark is the clear winner for value.

Getting Surfshark’s OpenVPN Up and Running on Your Mac: A Complete Guide

Surfshark VPN vs. Proton VPN: Privacy-Focused Battle

Proton VPN is celebrated for its strong focus on privacy and transparency, offering a robust free tier alongside its paid plans. Let’s compare it with Surfshark.

Both Surfshark and Proton VPN rely on the WireGuard protocol for excellent speeds. While NordVPN with NordLynx might occasionally edge them out, both Surfshark and Proton VPN offer very fast connections for daily use. Proton VPN also has a “Proton VPN Accelerator” feature, though its real-world impact might just bring speeds on par with others.

Both prioritize privacy and security:

• Simultaneous Connections: Surfshark offers unlimited connections. Proton VPN’s paid plans usually allow up to 10 devices.
• Server Network: Surfshark has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. Proton VPN has over 2,300+ servers for paid plans in 110+ countries, and boasts a very large server grid with over 11,000 servers in total including free servers.
• Security & Privacy: Both offer strong encryption AES-256 and ChaCha20 for WireGuard, a strict no-logs policy audited, and essential VPN features.
  • Proton VPN Extras: Secure Core servers routes traffic through multiple secure countries, NetShield ad/malware blocker, VPN Accelerator, and a strong emphasis on transparency with open-source apps. It also supports port forwarding, which is great for torrenting.
  • Surfshark Extras: CleanWeb, MultiHop, Bypasser, NoBorders, and IP Rotator.
• Free Version: Proton VPN is notable for offering a respectable free VPN service, albeit with limitations like fewer server locations and slower speeds. Surfshark offers a free trial but not a perpetually free tier.
• Jurisdiction: Proton VPN is based in privacy-friendly Switzerland. Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which is generally privacy-friendly but is part of the Nine Eyes Intelligence Sharing Alliance.

Proton VPN’s cheapest paid plan starts around $2.99/month, while Surfshark’s long-term Starter plan can be as low as $1.99/month. So, Surfshark is generally more affordable for premium plans. What is the Use of Surfshark VPN? Your Guide to Online Freedom and Security

Reddit Opinion Surfshark or Proton VPN Reddit

On Reddit, Proton VPN is highly respected for its strong privacy stance, open-source nature, and torrenting features like port forwarding. However, Surfshark is often recommended for its value, unlimited connections, and ease of use, making it a favorite for sharing among multiple users. Users needing extreme privacy might lean towards Proton, while those wanting a balanced, affordable option with many connections often pick Surfshark.

The Takeaway: If uncompromising privacy, open-source transparency, and robust torrenting support are your top priorities, and you don’t mind a slightly higher price or fewer simultaneous connections, Proton VPN is a superb choice. For a great balance of features, performance, and unlimited device usage at a lower cost, Surfshark remains incredibly competitive.

Surfshark Features Deep Dive

Let’s unpack some of the cool features that make Surfshark stand out:

How to Turn Off Surfshark VPN: Your Go-To Guide for Every Device

• CleanWeb: This is Surfshark’s built-in ad, tracker, and malware blocker. It helps make your browsing experience smoother, faster, and more secure by getting rid of annoying pop-ups and preventing malicious sites from loading. Many users, myself included, really appreciate not having constant ads interrupting their online experience.
• Bypasser Split Tunneling: This feature lets you choose which apps or websites go through the VPN and which bypass it. For example, you might want your banking app to use your regular internet connection while everything else uses the VPN. It’s a handy tool for flexibility and ensuring certain services work correctly without issues.
• Kill Switch: This is a crucial security feature. If your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, the kill switch automatically disconnects your device from the internet, preventing your real IP address or unencrypted data from being exposed. It acts as a safety net, making sure your privacy is always protected.
• No-Logs Policy: Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t collect or store any information about your online activities, like your browsing history, IP addresses, or connection timestamps. This policy has been independently audited by firms like Cure53 and Deloitte, which adds a lot of trust and verification.
• WireGuard Protocol: Surfshark uses the WireGuard VPN protocol, which is widely recognized for its speed and security. It’s a modern protocol that helps maintain fast connection speeds while providing strong encryption.
• MultiHop Double VPN: With MultiHop, your internet traffic is routed through two different VPN servers in different countries. This adds an extra layer of encryption and makes it even harder to trace your online activity, significantly boosting your anonymity.
• Unlimited Devices: As mentioned, this is a huge selling point. One Surfshark subscription covers every single device you own, from your phone to your smart fridge if it connects to the internet!, making it incredibly cost-effective for multiple users or device-heavy households.

Surfshark VPN Pricing and Plans

Understanding Surfshark’s pricing can feel a bit like looking at a menu with lots of options, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll see it offers some excellent value. Surfshark typically structures its pricing around three main bundles – Starter, One, and One+ – each available in monthly, 12-month, or 24-month subscriptions. The general rule is: the longer you commit, the more you save.

Let’s break down the plans prices are approximate and can change with promotions, but these give you a good idea for 2025:

1. Surfshark Starter: This is their basic VPN plan. Mastering Surfshark OVPN Files: Your Ultimate Guide to Manual Connections

   • Monthly: Expect to pay around $15.45 per month. This is the most expensive option and usually not recommended unless you only need it for a very short period.
   • 12-Month Plan often with bonus months: This usually drops the effective monthly price significantly, around $3.19/month billed upfront for 15 months, including 3 free, making it around $47.85.
   • 24-Month Plan often with bonus months: This is where you get the biggest savings, with prices as low as $1.99/month billed upfront for 27 months, including 3 free, making it around $53.73. This plan is often highlighted as one of the best deals in the VPN market. This plan includes the core VPN protection, unlimited connections, 3,200+ servers, ad blocker, and cookie consent blocker.

2. Surfshark One: This plan includes everything in Starter, plus some extra security tools.

   • You’ll typically find 24-month plans for around $2.49/month.
   • This tier adds features like real-time Antivirus, Dark Web monitoring, and a private search engine. Many find this a great “sweet spot” for value, as these extra features would cost much more if bought separately from other providers.

3. Surfshark One+: This is their most comprehensive package.

   • The 24-month plan typically runs about $3.99/month.
   • It includes everything from the One plan, plus automated data removal from broker sites through Incogni, which is particularly valuable if you’re concerned about your personal information being exposed online.

Important Note on Renewal Prices: While the introductory long-term prices are fantastic, it’s crucial to be aware that renewal prices are usually higher. For instance, a Starter plan that you got for $1.99/month might renew at around $6.58/month or $79 annually. While this is a bump, it’s still often cheaper than the renewal rates for rivals like ExpressVPN $100-$117 a year and NordVPN $140 a year. Surfshark usually sends renewal notices 30 days in advance, giving you time to decide if you want to continue or switch plans.

Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans, so you can try it out risk-free. They also accept various payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, and even cryptocurrency for those who prefer anonymous payment.

Surfshark VPN: How Many Users and Devices Can You Really Connect?

Surfshark VPN Extensions: Browser-Based Protection

Did you know Surfshark isn’t just a full app? They also offer handy browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. These extensions are super convenient for quick, lightweight protection right in your browser.

Here’s what you need to know about them:

• Browser-Specific Protection: Unlike the full desktop or mobile app, which secures all your device’s internet traffic, the browser extension only encrypts your traffic within that specific browser. This means other applications on your device won’t be protected by the VPN unless you’re also running the full app.
• Key Features Included: Even though they’re lightweight, Surfshark’s browser extensions come packed with useful features:
  • Ad and Tracker Blocking CleanWeb: Just like the full app, the extension helps block intrusive ads, trackers, and malicious websites for a cleaner browsing experience.
  • Cookie Pop-up Blocker: This is a neat addition that automatically rejects tracking cookies, making your web surfing less interrupted.
  • WebRTC Leak Protection: This prevents your real IP address from being exposed through WebRTC leaks, a common vulnerability even when using a VPN.
  • IP Masking: It masks your real IP address by routing your browser traffic through a secure proxy server.
• Easy to Install and Use: Getting the extension set up is a breeze. You simply visit the Chrome Web Store, Firefox Browser Add-ons page, or Microsoft Edge Add-ons page, search for “Surfshark VPN,” and click “Add to Chrome/Firefox/Edge”. Once installed, you just log in with your Surfshark credentials and connect to a server.
• When to Use It: Browser extensions are great for quick tasks where you only need to secure your browsing, like accessing geo-restricted streaming content in your browser or adding an extra layer of privacy while shopping online. However, for comprehensive, device-wide protection, especially when using other apps or torrenting, the full VPN application is always recommended.

Using a paid browser extension like Surfshark’s is also a much better option than relying on free VPN proxy extensions, which often compromise your privacy by selling your data or offering unstable speeds.

Surfshark obfuscation

Surfshark VPN Review: What People Are Saying

So, what’s the general consensus on Surfshark? Overall, it receives very positive reviews from both tech experts and everyday users, often being highlighted as an excellent value VPN.

Expert Reviews

Tech publications like CNET, Tom’s Guide, and TechRadar frequently give Surfshark high marks. They praise its:

• Fast Speeds: Often ranking among the fastest VPNs, especially with the WireGuard protocol. Some tests show speed losses as low as 21%.
• Unlimited Connections: This feature is almost universally applauded as a major advantage.
• Global Coverage: With servers in 100 countries, it offers extensive reach.
• Streaming Performance: Highly effective at unblocking various streaming services, including multiple Netflix libraries.
• Robust Security: Emphasized for its AES-256 encryption, kill switch, and independently audited no-logs policy.
• User-Friendliness: Its apps are considered intuitive and easy for all experience levels.

Even with recent renewal price increases, experts still consider it a top-tier VPN that offers good value for money.

Real-World User Experiences Including Reddit

On platforms like Reddit, users often share their personal experiences, which tend to mirror expert opinions: Surfshark VPN in the Netherlands: Your Digital Companion

• Affordability & Value: Many Reddit users highlight Surfshark’s low price point, especially on long-term plans, as a primary reason for choosing it. The unlimited device connection is frequently mentioned as a “big selling point” for families or individuals with many gadgets.
• Reliability & Speed: Users generally report that Surfshark is “fast, reliable, and easy to use,” without significant slowdowns. It’s often praised for working seamlessly for everyday browsing, streaming, and even torrenting.
• Features: Features like CleanWeb for ad-blocking and the cookie pop-up blocker are often called out for making the browsing experience much smoother.
• Customer Support: Many appreciate the 24/7 customer support, describing the team as knowledgeable and helpful.
• Concerns: While largely positive, some Reddit threads occasionally mention isolated issues, like challenges with specific features e.g., Bypasser not working for all apps or rare account security concerns. However, these seem to be less common than the positive feedback.

Overall, the sentiment is that Surfshark is a solid, feature-rich VPN that offers fantastic value, especially for those who need to protect many devices without breaking the bank.

How to Get Surfshark VPN Free Trial

Want to take Surfshark for a spin before committing? You’ve got a couple of good options to try it out risk-free.

1. 7-Day Free Trial via Mobile App Stores: Surfshark VPN for NFL: Your Ultimate Guide to Uninterrupted Football Season

   • This is the closest thing to a “true” free trial that Surfshark offers. It’s available if you sign up through the iOS/macOS App Store or Google Play Store.
   • How it works:
     1. Download and install the Surfshark app on your Android, iOS, or macOS device.
     2. Open the app and select the option to “Sign Up” or “Start Free Trial”.
     3. You’ll likely need to choose a 12-month or 24-month plan to qualify for the trial you won’t be charged initially.
     4. Create an account with your email and password.
     5. Your card details will be registered, but you won’t be billed for seven days.
     6. Once you activate the trial on your mobile device, you can then use those same account details to log in and use Surfshark on any other device Windows, smart TV, etc..
     7. Important: Remember to cancel the trial within seven days if you don’t want to continue, to avoid being charged. You can usually do this through your device’s subscription settings e.g., Apple ID subscriptions or Google Play subscriptions. Even if you cancel, you can usually still use the VPN until the trial period ends.

2. 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee on All Plans:

   • This isn’t a “free” trial in the sense that you pay upfront, but it’s completely risk-free.
     1. Go to the official Surfshark website and choose any subscription plan monthly, 12-month, or 24-month.
     2. Complete the purchase with your payment information. You will be charged immediately.
     3. You then have a full 30 days to test out all of Surfshark’s features and see if it meets your expectations.
     4. If you’re not satisfied for any reason, simply contact Surfshark’s customer support via live chat or email within those 30 days and request a full refund. They promise a hassle-free refund process.

Both options give you full access to Surfshark’s features, so you can truly test its speed, streaming capabilities, and overall performance.

Surfshark VPN Login and Setup

Getting started with Surfshark and logging in is pretty straightforward, whether you’re a new user or an existing one. They’ve made it quite intuitive across all their apps and extensions.

Unlocking Netflix with Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Streaming Guide

Initial Setup and Account Creation

If you’re brand new to Surfshark:

1. Choose a Plan: First, head to the Surfshark website and select a subscription plan that fits your needs or start with a free trial as described above.
2. Create Account: You’ll be prompted to enter your email address and create a password. These will be your primary login credentials.
3. Download the App: Once your account is set up, download the Surfshark app for your specific device Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Fire TV, etc. from their website or the relevant app store.

Logging In to the Surfshark App

Once you have the app installed, logging in is simple:

1. Open the App: Launch the Surfshark VPN application on your device.
2. Log In with Credentials: Select the “Log in” option. Then, enter the email address and password you used when you created your account. Tap “Log in” or “Next”.
   • If you’ve forgotten your password, there’s usually a “Forgot Password” option to help you reset it.

Alternative Login Methods

Surfshark offers a few convenient ways to log in without typing your password every time:

• Log In with Code: This is super handy, especially for devices where typing is cumbersome like smart TVs or gaming consoles.
  1. On the device you want to log into, open the Surfshark app and choose “Log in with code”. A 6-digit code will appear on the screen.
  2. On another device like your phone or computer where you’re already logged into Surfshark either in the app, browser extension, or website, go to Settings > My account and look for an “Enter login code” option.
  3. Enter the 6-digit code from your first device into your already-logged-in device, and voilà, the first device will connect. You can also log in through the Surfshark website by entering the code there if you’re already signed into the website.
• Log In with Google / Apple ID: If you linked your Surfshark account to your Google or Apple ID during signup, you can simply choose the respective logo Google or Apple on the login screen and follow the prompts to sign in with those credentials.

Troubleshooting Login Issues

If you ever have trouble logging in:

• Check Credentials: Double-check your email and password for typos.
• Existing VPNs: Make sure no other VPN is running on your device, as this can interfere with Surfshark. Disconnect from any other VPN service before trying to log into Surfshark.
• Restart: Sometimes, a quick restart of the app or your device can resolve glitches.
• Reinstall: If issues persist, try reinstalling the Surfshark app.
• Update Software: Ensure your Surfshark app and device’s operating system are up to date. Outdated software can cause problems.
• Contact Support: If all else fails, Surfshark offers 24/7 customer support via live chat on their website. They can help diagnose and fix more complex issues.

Mysterium VPN vs. Surfshark VPN: Which One Should You Pick?

When to Choose Surfshark

After all this information, you might be thinking, “Is Surfshark really for me?” Here’s a quick rundown of who Surfshark is perfect for:

• Large Households or Individuals with Many Devices: If you have a laptop, phone, tablet, smart TV, gaming console, and maybe a few other smart gadgets, Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections is a massive advantage. You get to protect everything with a single subscription, making it incredibly cost-effective.
• Budget-Conscious Users Who Don’t Want to Compromise on Quality: Surfshark consistently offers one of the best price-to-feature ratios in the premium VPN market. You get top-tier security, speed, and features without the premium price tag of some competitors, especially on longer-term plans.
• Frequent Streamers and Travelers: If you love to watch geo-restricted content from different countries or need to access your home services while abroad, Surfshark is excellent at unblocking popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu. Its global server network 3,200+ servers in 100 countries ensures you’ll usually find a server where you need it.
• People Who Value Extra Privacy Features: With CleanWeb blocking ads and trackers, MultiHop for double encryption, and an audited no-logs policy, Surfshark provides robust tools to keep your online activities private and secure.
• Users Looking for a User-Friendly Experience: Surfshark’s apps are designed to be easy to use and navigate, making it a great option for both VPN beginners and experienced users.

So, if any of these sound like you, Surfshark is definitely a strong contender that delivers excellent value, performance, and peace of mind for your online world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Surfshark and other VPNs like NordVPN or ExpressVPN?

The main difference often comes down to simultaneous connections and pricing. Surfshark famously offers unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription, allowing you to protect all your devices at once. Many other top VPNs, including NordVPN 10 devices and ExpressVPN 8 devices, have limits. Additionally, Surfshark is often significantly more affordable, especially for its long-term plans, providing excellent value for its feature set.

Surfshark VPN: Your Gateway to Unlimited Device Protection

Is Surfshark VPN fast enough for streaming and gaming?

Yes, absolutely. Surfshark is consistently ranked among the fastest VPNs on the market, especially when using the WireGuard protocol. Recent tests in 2025 showed it retaining excellent speeds with only about a 21% speed loss, which is usually unnoticeable for most daily activities. It’s highly effective at unblocking and streaming content from services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu without buffering or lag.

Does Surfshark offer a truly free version or trial?

Surfshark doesn’t offer a perpetually free VPN tier like some providers e.g., Proton VPN’s free plan. However, it does provide two risk-free ways to try the service: a 7-day free trial if you sign up through the iOS/macOS App Store or Google Play Store, and a comprehensive 30-day money-back guarantee on all its paid subscription plans. The money-back guarantee means you pay upfront but can get a full refund if you cancel within 30 days.

Is Surfshark VPN safe to use and does it keep logs of my activity?

Yes, Surfshark VPN is considered very safe to use. It employs strong AES-256 encryption, a kill switch feature to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops, and modern VPN protocols like WireGuard. Crucially, Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not collect or store any identifying information about your online activities. This no-logs policy has been independently audited by reputable third-party firms like Cure53 and Deloitte, verifying its claims of privacy and security.

How much does Surfshark VPN cost after the initial discounted period?

While Surfshark offers highly competitive introductory prices for its long-term plans often as low as $1.99/month for a 24-month plan, the renewal prices are typically higher. For example, a Surfshark Starter plan might renew at approximately $79 annually which works out to about $6.58/month. Even with this increase, it often remains more affordable than the renewal rates of many other premium VPN providers, such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN. Surfshark usually sends out renewal notices 30 days in advance, giving you time to manage your subscription.

Can I use Surfshark on my browser only, or do I need the full app?

You can absolutely use Surfshark’s browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge to secure your browsing traffic. These extensions offer many key features like ad-blocking CleanWeb, cookie pop-up blocking, and IP masking. However, it’s important to remember that these extensions only protect the traffic within that specific browser. For comprehensive, device-wide protection that secures all your apps and internet activity, you’ll need to install and use the full Surfshark VPN application.