Trying to figure out which VPN to pick between NordVPN and Surfshark can feel like a real head-scratcher, right? Both are super popular and always popping up on “best VPN” lists, but they’ve got some key differences that might make one a better fit for your online life. For most folks, Surfshark is an incredible value, especially with its unlimited device connections and super affordable long-term plans. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking to cover every gadget in your home without breaking the bank. But, if you’re chasing the absolute fastest speeds, a truly massive server network, and a slightly more robust suite of advanced security tools, NordVPN might just edge it out. It comes with a higher price tag and fewer simultaneous connections, but for some, those extra perks are totally worth it. So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty and see which VPN comes out on top for 2025.
Quick Look: NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN in 2025
Sometimes you just need the quick facts, so here’s a snapshot of how these two heavyweights stack up in 2025:
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| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Server Count | 7,900+ in 165+ countries as of Aug 2025 | 3,200+ in 100 countries as of Aug/Sept 2025 |
| Max Devices | 10 simultaneous connections | Unlimited simultaneous connections |
| Jurisdiction | Panama privacy-friendly | Netherlands Nine Eyes alliance |
| No-Logs Policy | Audited Deloitte 2025, PwC, Core 53 | Audited Deloitte 2022/2025 |
| Speed Protocol | NordLynx WireGuard-based | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Encryption | AES-256-CBC, ChaCha20 | AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20 |
| Unique Security | Double VPN, Obfuscated Servers, Threat Protection Pro, Meshnet, Onion Over VPN | MultiHop, NoBorders, CleanWeb, Rotating IP, GPS Spoofing, Antivirus with bundle |
| Streaming | Excellent Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, etc. | Excellent Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, etc. |
| Long-Term Price | From ~$3.09/month 2-year plan | From ~$1.99/month 2-year plan |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
Speed & Performance: Who Wins the Race?
Alright, let’s talk speed because nobody wants a VPN that feels like dial-up. When you’re streaming your favorite shows or battling it out in an online game, every millisecond counts!
Both NordVPN and Surfshark are generally considered fast, and they both use the super modern WireGuard protocol NordVPN has its own version called NordLynx. This protocol is a must for speed and security.
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Now, from what I’ve seen, NordVPN usually has a slight edge when it comes to raw speed. Many tests show NordVPN retaining about 94% of your base download speeds when using NordLynx. Some reports even boast mind-blowing speeds up to 2964 Mb/s in the US! That’s seriously fast, perfect if you have a blazing-fast internet connection and want to squeeze every drop of speed out of it.
Surfshark is no slouch either. It consistently delivers really good speeds, often retaining around 93% of base download speeds with WireGuard. I’ve seen reports of Surfshark hitting over 950 Mbps on WireGuard in some speed tests, which is fantastic for demanding activities like 4K streaming and gaming. However, some tests have shown a bit more variability, with download speeds sometimes seeing a 30% reduction, and upload speeds up to 50%. Other reports, though, suggest a minimal 5% speed drop on remote servers, which is practically unnoticeable for most everyday tasks.
My take: For everyday browsing, streaming in HD or even 4K, and most gaming, both VPNs will feel snappy enough. But if you’re a power user with a gigabit internet connection and you’re constantly downloading massive files or looking for the absolute lowest latency, NordVPN often pulls ahead slightly in sheer speed.
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Security & Privacy: Fortress or Smart Shield?
This is where a VPN truly earns its stripes, right? Protecting your online activity is the whole point. Both NordVPN and Surfshark are rock-solid when it comes to the basics, but they do have some different approaches.
Encryption and Protocols
Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption, which is the gold standard, practically unbreakable. They also support the highly secure and fast WireGuard protocol NordVPN calls its version NordLynx, along with OpenVPN and IKEv2. Surfshark even uses AES-256-GCM, which some folks consider a bit faster than NordVPN’s AES-256-CBC, especially for encrypting and decrypting data quickly. They both use ChaCha20 encryption as well, which is great for mobile devices.
Advanced Security Features
- Double VPN / MultiHop: This feature routes your traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of encryption. NordVPN has preconfigured Double VPN servers, making it easy to use. Surfshark offers “MultiHop,” which you can configure manually to create your own double VPN chain.
- Obfuscation: This makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic, which is super useful in places with strict internet censorship or if you just don’t want anyone knowing you’re using a VPN. NordVPN has special Obfuscated servers. Surfshark uses its “NoBorders mode” to achieve the same thing. NordVPN also has a new feature called NordWhisper for restrictive networks in 2025.
- Kill Switch: Essential for preventing data leaks if your VPN connection unexpectedly drops. Both have system-wide kill switches. What’s cool about NordVPN is that it also offers an app-specific kill switch, meaning you can choose for only certain apps to be cut off if the VPN disconnects, while others remain unaffected.
- RAM-only Servers: Both providers are using RAM-only servers, which is a fantastic security practice. It means all data is wiped clean with every server restart, so there’s nothing permanent to store or access.
- Threat Protection NordVPN vs. CleanWeb + Antivirus Surfshark:
- NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro is pretty comprehensive. It blocks malicious websites, trackers, ads, and even scans for malware in downloads.
- Surfshark’s CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites. But if you go for one of Surfshark’s bundled plans like Surfshark One, you also get a full-featured antivirus with real-time protection, which is something NordVPN doesn’t directly offer as part of its VPN package. This is a big win for Surfshark if you’re looking for an all-in-one security solution.
Jurisdiction & No-Logs Policy
This is a pretty big differentiator.
- NordVPN is based in Panama. Panama is known for its privacy-friendly laws and isn’t part of any surveillance alliances like 5/9/14 Eyes. This is a strong point for user privacy. NordVPN has also had its no-logs policy independently audited multiple times, by firms like PwC and Core 53, and most recently by Deloitte in 2025, verifying that they truly don’t collect your online activity data.
- Surfshark is based in the Netherlands. While the Netherlands is generally privacy-conscious, it is part of the Nine Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. For many users, this won’t be an issue, but for those who are extremely privacy-sensitive, Panama’s jurisdiction for NordVPN might feel more reassuring. Surfshark also has an independently audited no-logs policy, verified by Deloitte in 2022/2025.
My take: Both are incredibly secure, but NordVPN’s customizable kill switch, Onion Over VPN, and Panama jurisdiction give it a slight edge for those who prioritize maximum privacy and advanced security features. However, Surfshark’s optional integrated antivirus in its bundles is a compelling offer for comprehensive digital protection. How to Get Surfshark VPN on Your Samsung TV: Your Ultimate Guide
Server Network & Global Reach: More is Better?
When you’re trying to access content from different parts of the world or just want a fast connection nearby, the size and spread of a VPN’s server network matter a lot.
- NordVPN really flexes its muscles here. As of August 2025, they boast an impressive 7,900+ servers in 165+ countries. That’s a massive network that means less server congestion and a better chance of finding a fast server close to your physical location or in the specific region you need. Other sources mention 7,100+ servers in 118 countries or 8000+ servers in 126+ countries, but the latest figures from August 2025 lean towards the larger count.
- Surfshark has a very respectable network too, with 3,200+ servers across 100 countries as of late 2025. While it’s not as large as NordVPN’s, it’s still broad geographic coverage and more than enough for most people to find a reliable connection. Surfshark also uses 10Gbps servers across its network, which helps maintain speed and reliability. It’s worth noting that some of Surfshark’s server locations are virtual, which can sometimes lead to slightly slower response times, though Surfshark does offer diverse locations for effective geo-unblocking.
My take: If sheer numbers and global spread are important to you, NordVPN definitely has the larger and more diverse server network. This can be a big plus for overcoming geo-restrictions in more obscure locations or ensuring you always have a low-latency connection. Surfshark’s network is still very strong and sufficient for the vast majority of users.
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Pricing & Value for Money: Budget-Friendly vs. Premium Features
Let’s be real, price is a huge factor for most of us. Here’s where things get interesting, as these two often cater to slightly different budgets and priorities.
Monthly Plans
If you just need a VPN for a short trip or a specific project, the monthly plans matter.
- NordVPN’s monthly plans for its basic VPN service Standard often sit around $12.99 – $13.99 per month.
- Surfshark’s monthly Starter plan is usually a bit higher, around $15.45 per month.
So, for a very short-term commitment, NordVPN can sometimes be a touch cheaper on a monthly basis.
Long-Term Plans: Where the Real Savings Are
This is where you get the best value with both services. What is the Use of Surfshark VPN? Your Guide to Online Freedom and Security
- Surfshark is typically the more budget-friendly option for longer commitments. Its 24-month Starter plan often comes in at an incredibly low price, around $1.99 – $2.49 per month billed upfront for 24-27 months, including bonus months. This is one of the cheapest premium VPNs you can find.
- NordVPN’s 2-year Standard plan is also a great deal, usually starting around $3.09 – $3.39 per month billed upfront for 24-27 months, including bonus months.
Renewal Costs
This is a crucial point many people miss! The initial low prices are often introductory offers.
- NordVPN’s 2-year plan might renew at around $8.29/month after the first term, which is a significant jump from the intro price.
- Surfshark’s renewal jump is also substantial, with a 24-month Starter plan potentially renewing at around $6.58/month after the initial period.
Pro Tip: Always check the renewal price before committing, or set a reminder to re-evaluate your subscription before it renews at the higher rate.
Bundled Services & Value
Both VPNs offer extra cybersecurity tools if you’re willing to pay a bit more.
- NordVPN offers “Plus” and “Complete/Ultimate” plans that bundle in NordPass a password manager, NordLocker encrypted cloud storage, and sometimes even identity theft protection.
- Surfshark has its “Surfshark One” and “Surfshark One+” bundles, which include an antivirus, dark web monitoring, private search, and even automated data removal from broker sites. This makes Surfshark a compelling option if you’re looking to consolidate several security tools under one subscription.
Simultaneous Connections: A Huge Factor for Value
This is arguably Surfshark’s biggest advantage in terms of value.
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- Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can install and use it on every device you own, and even share it with your family, all under one subscription. This is a massive perk for families or anyone with a lot of gadgets.
- NordVPN allows 10 simultaneous connections. For many, 10 devices is plenty, but if you have a large household or a ton of devices, you might hit that limit.
My take: For those on a tighter budget or who need to cover an unlimited number of devices, Surfshark delivers outstanding value. The long-term plans are incredibly affordable, and the unlimited connections feature is unmatched by NordVPN. However, NordVPN’s bundled services like NordPass and NordLocker add significant value if you need those specific tools and are willing to pay a bit more.
Streaming & Geo-Unblocking: Your Entertainment Gateway
Let’s be honest, a lot of us use VPNs to access our favorite shows and movies that might be restricted in our region. Good news: both NordVPN and Surfshark are absolute champions when it comes to streaming.
They both do an excellent job of unblocking popular services like: Mastering Surfshark OVPN Files: Your Ultimate Guide to Manual Connections
- Netflix US, UK, Canada, Japan, etc.
- Hulu
- Disney+
- Amazon Prime Video
- Max formerly HBO Max
- BBC iPlayer
NordVPN has a reputation for being incredibly reliable with streaming and can often unblock even the most stringent services. Its vast server network also means you have more options to try if one server isn’t working with a particular streaming platform. It’s often recommended as a top VPN for services like Disney+.
Surfshark also wears its streaming capabilities proudly. It actively guarantees access to 14 Netflix libraries, which is a strong commitment. My experience and many reviews confirm that Surfshark is a fantastic choice for buffer-free HD and 4K streaming.
My take: You honestly can’t go wrong with either for streaming. Both are top-tier and will likely give you access to pretty much anything you want to watch. If I had to pick, NordVPN might have a tiny edge in terms of consistently unblocking the trickiest services, but it’s a very close call.
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User Experience & Device Compatibility: Easy to Use?
A VPN is only good if you can actually use it without getting frustrated. Both NordVPN and Surfshark prioritize user-friendly interfaces and offer broad device support.
Apps and Interface
Both VPNs offer dedicated apps for all the major operating systems:
- Windows
- macOS
- iOS iPhone, iPad
- Android
- Linux
- Android TV / Fire TV Stick
You can also manually set them up on routers to protect all devices on your network.
- NordVPN’s apps are generally very well-designed, intuitive, and easy to navigate. On desktop, you often get a map interface to pick your server, which some users really love. It also makes it easy to access its special servers and features directly within the app.
- Surfshark’s apps are known for being slick, modern, and very intuitive. It usually presents a clean list of servers rather than a map, which some users prefer for quick selection. Surfshark also made some subtle tweaks in 2025 to make the app even more user-friendly, clearly displaying active settings like protocol and kill switch status.
Split Tunneling Bypasser
This feature lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN connection and which bypass it. This is handy for accessing local network devices while staying protected or for using apps that don’t play well with VPNs. Surfshark obfuscation
- NordVPN offers split tunneling on its Windows and Android apps, as well as browser extensions. On Windows and Android, you can split by app, while browser extensions let you split by URL.
- Surfshark’s “Bypasser” feature is notable because it offers split tunneling on a wider range of platforms, including iOS and macOS, which is quite impressive given Apple’s restrictions in this area.
My take: Both offer excellent apps, but Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections and its more extensive split tunneling support especially on Apple devices make it incredibly versatile and user-friendly for households with many devices. NordVPN’s apps are also fantastic, and the map interface is a nice touch for some.
Unique Features: Beyond the Basics
Sometimes it’s the little extras that make a VPN stand out. Both NordVPN and Surfshark have some cool, unique tools in their arsenal.
NordVPN’s Standout Features
- Meshnet: This is probably NordVPN’s most innovative feature. It lets you create secure, private networks between your devices, no matter where they are in the world. You can use it to access files on your home computer from abroad, share files directly with friends, or even route your traffic through a friend’s device as a VPN server. It’s truly game-changing for secure remote access.
- Onion Over VPN: For those who want maximum anonymity, this feature routes your traffic through NordVPN’s servers and then through the Tor network, combining the benefits of both.
- NordWhisper: A new feature in 2025 specifically designed to help bypass internet blocks in highly restrictive networks by making your VPN connection look like regular traffic.
Surfshark’s Standout Features
- Rotating IP: This feature automatically changes your IP address every few minutes without disconnecting your VPN. It adds another layer of anonymity by making it even harder to track your online activity.
- GPS Spoofing: On Android, Surfshark can spoof your GPS location to match your VPN server location, which is great for apps that rely on GPS data.
- Surfshark One / One+ bundles: As mentioned earlier, these bundles aren’t just a VPN. They can include an antivirus, private search engine, dark web alerts, and even automated data removal services that scrub your personal info from data broker sites. This comprehensive approach to digital security is a significant unique selling point.
- NoBorders mode: While similar to NordVPN’s obfuscated servers, Surfshark makes it easy to toggle this on when facing internet restrictions.
My take: Both have impressive extra features. NordVPN’s Meshnet is a truly unique and powerful tool for secure device networking. Surfshark’s unlimited devices combined with its comprehensive Surfshark One bundles and features like Rotating IP, make it an incredibly versatile and value-packed option for broad digital protection. Surfshark VPN in the Netherlands: Your Digital Companion
Customer Support: When You Need a Hand
Even with the most user-friendly VPNs, sometimes you just need a bit of help. Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer excellent customer support.
You’ll typically find:
- 24/7 live chat: This is usually the quickest way to get assistance, and both providers have responsive teams.
- Extensive knowledge bases: Full of detailed guides, troubleshooting tips, and FAQs, so you can often find answers yourself.
- Email support: For more complex issues that don’t require immediate attention.
My take: You should feel confident that you’ll get timely and helpful support from either NordVPN or Surfshark if you ever run into a snag. Surfshark VPN for NFL: Your Ultimate Guide to Uninterrupted Football Season
The Final Verdict: Which VPN is Right for You?
we’ve broken down pretty much everything there is to know about NordVPN and Surfshark in 2025. Both are stellar VPNs, consistently ranking among the best, but your “winner” really comes down to what you prioritize.
Choose NordVPN if:
- You want the absolute fastest speeds: If you have a super-fast internet connection and want to maintain as much of that speed as possible, NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol and extensive server network often give it the edge.
- You need the largest server network: With over 7,900 servers in 165+ countries, NordVPN offers unparalleled global reach, which can be great for specific geo-unblocking or finding uncongested servers.
- You prioritize advanced security features and ultimate privacy: Features like its app-specific kill switch, Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, NordWhisper, and its Panama jurisdiction are hard to beat for privacy purists.
- You’re interested in Meshnet: This unique feature for secure direct device connections is a real standout if you work remotely, game with friends, or need to access your home network securely from anywhere.
- You want a bundled password manager and cloud storage: NordVPN’s Plus and Complete plans offer NordPass and NordLocker, making it a good all-in-one productivity and security suite.
Choose Surfshark if:
- You need to protect unlimited devices: This is Surfshark’s killer feature. If you have a large family or a pile of gadgets, being able to cover them all with one subscription offers incredible value.
- You’re on a tighter budget for long-term plans: Surfshark’s 2-year plans are often significantly more affordable upfront, making it a fantastic budget-friendly premium VPN.
- You want a comprehensive cybersecurity bundle: The Surfshark One and One+ packages, with their integrated antivirus, private search, dark web monitoring, and data removal services, offer an excellent all-in-one security solution.
- You appreciate user-friendly apps with advanced split tunneling: Surfshark’s slick interface and its Bypasser feature, which works on iOS and macOS, make it incredibly easy to use across all your devices.
- You value features like Rotating IP and GPS spoofing: These unique anonymity features add an extra layer of privacy.
Ultimately, both NordVPN and Surfshark are exceptional VPNs that will keep you safe and unlock a world of online content. You really can’t go wrong. It’s about weighing those subtle differences against your own personal needs and wallet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark better than NordVPN for streaming Netflix?
Both Surfshark and NordVPN are excellent for streaming Netflix and other services like Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. While NordVPN might have a slight edge in consistently unblocking the most stubborn services, Surfshark actively guarantees access to 14 Netflix libraries and performs exceptionally well for buffer-free HD and 4K streaming.
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Is Surfshark cheaper than NordVPN?
Generally, yes, especially for long-term subscriptions. Surfshark’s 24-month plans are typically more affordable, starting around $1.99 – $2.49 per month. NordVPN’s 2-year plans start a bit higher, around $3.09 – $3.39 per month. However, for monthly plans, NordVPN can sometimes be slightly cheaper. Keep in mind that renewal prices for both can be higher than the initial promotional rates.
Does Surfshark or NordVPN offer unlimited devices?
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections with a single subscription, meaning you can protect every device you own and share it with your family. NordVPN, on the other hand, allows up to 10 simultaneous connections. If covering many devices is a priority, Surfshark is the clear winner here.
Which VPN has more servers, NordVPN or Surfshark?
NordVPN has a significantly larger server network. As of August 2025, NordVPN boasts over 7,900 servers in 165+ countries. Surfshark has a respectable 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. While both offer excellent global coverage, NordVPN’s network is much more extensive.
Is Surfshark faster than NordVPN?
In most independent speed tests, NordVPN often shows slightly faster average download speeds and better speed retention, especially with its NordLynx protocol, retaining about 94% of base speeds. Surfshark is also very fast, retaining around 93% of base speeds and capable of handling 4K streaming and gaming with ease, sometimes clocking over 950 Mbps on WireGuard. For most users, both will feel very fast, but NordVPN typically has a marginal lead in raw speed tests.
What about privacy jurisdiction, Panama vs Netherlands?
NordVPN is based in Panama, a country known for its privacy-friendly laws and not being part of any intelligence-sharing alliances. Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which is generally privacy-conscious but is part of the Nine Eyes intelligence alliance. Both have independently audited no-logs policies, meaning they don’t record your online activity. For those prioritizing jurisdiction, NordVPN’s Panama base offers a theoretical privacy advantage. Surfshark VPN: Your Gateway to Unlimited Device Protection
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