Surfshark vs. NordVPN — is there a clear winner?

Surfshark and NordVPN are considered top VPN (Virtual Private Network) providers for good reason — they both offer high-level encryption, fast speeds, and extensive server networks. When it comes to choosing between the two, there’s no easy answer, as each excels in different areas.

Since your decision will ultimately depend on your personal needs, let’s help you make an informed choice by breaking down the key differences between Surfshark and NordVPN.

Note: The comparison was updated on February 1, 2026, and the information listed is subject to change.

Surfshark vs. NordVPN: quick overview

Let’s compare NordVPN’s and Surfshark’s core features:

Feature	NordVPN	Surfshark
Lowest monthly price	$2.69/month	$1.99/month
Money-back guarantee	30 days	30 days
Server countries	167	100
No. of servers	8,400+	4,500+
Subscription coverage	10 devices	Unlimited devices
Protocols	NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
Data encryption	AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20	AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20
Download speed retention*	81%	77%
Upload speed retention*	69%	26%
Cookie pop-up blocker
Ad blocker	(Threat Protection & Threat Protection Pro)	(Clean Web)
Independent audit	(Deloitte, 2025)	(Deloitte, 2025)
10Gbps servers	(Some)	(All)
24/7 support
Operating systems	Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, tvOS	Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, tvOS
No-logs policy	(Panama jurisdiction)	(Netherlands jurisdiction)
Dedicated IP address	($2.99/mo, 30 countries)	($3.75/mo, 14 countries)
Malware blocker	(Threat Protection Lite)	(Clean Web)
Data leak alert	(Dark Web Monitor)	(Alert)

*Based on tests performed by cybernews.com

Key differences between Surfshark and NordVPN

Both Surfshark and NordVPN offer high-level security, fast speeds, and extensive server networks, but they cater to slightly different needs. Here’s a rundown of how they differ:

• Surfshark is more affordable long-term: Surfshark offers better pricing on long-term plans, with its two-year subscription costing just $1.99 per month compared to NordVPN’s $2.69 per month. Nevertheless, NordVPN’s monthly plan is cheaper;
• Surfshark allows unlimited device connections: Surfshark lets you protect as many devices in your household as you want, all under one subscription. In contrast, NordVPN limits you to 10 simultaneous connections;
• NordVPN has a larger server network: with 8,400+ servers in over 167 countries, NordVPN provides more server options. That said, Surfshark’s 4,500+ servers in 100 countries are still considered broad geographic coverage;
• NordVPN delivers slightly better speed performance: speed tests show that NordVPN retains 81% of base download speeds, while Surfshark holds 77%. NordVPN also outperforms Surfshark in upload speeds, making it a better choice for high-bandwidth tasks like large file transfers between peers;
• Surfshark includes unique privacy tools: Alternative ID (which generates a new online identity, including an email address and name), and its paid add-on, alternative number (a virtual phone number for sign-ups), set Surfshark apart. NordVPN does not offer equivalents;
• Surfshark offers easier censorship bypassing: its No Borders automatically detects and applies the best settings for using Surfshark in countries with limited internet freedom;
• NordVPN has more independent audits: both services have been audited by reputable accounting firms, but NordVPN boasts a longer history of such third-party verifications;
• NordVPN has better performance for streaming and gaming: NordVPN’s SmartPlay integration simplifies access to streaming content on devices that don’t support VPN apps. That said, you can still set up Surfshark on your router for the same purpose. NordVPN also provides lower latency for gaming, but Surfshark comes with a unique GPS override feature that is useful for mobile gamers;
• Surfshark offers more customization with Multi Hop, but NordVPN’s Double VPN is pre-configured: if you prefer to pick your entry and exit points for double encryption, Surfshark is the better choice. If you want a pre-set, optimized double VPN experience, NordVPN works well;
• NordVPN has better infrastructure transparency: both Surfshark and NordVPN have transitioned to RAM-only servers, ensuring no user data is stored long-term. However, Surfshark publishes fewer transparency reports detailing government data requests than NordVPN does.

Disclaimer: Please note that the alternative number add-on is a paid service and isn’t covered by the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Subscription cost

The pricing of a VPN service plays a key role for users seeking long-term VPN value. While neither Surfshark nor NordVPN offers a free tier, they both provide considerable discounts on longer subscriptions. Here’s how the plans compare:

Pricing

Plan	NordVPN	Surfshark
1-month plan	$12.99/mo	$15.45/mo
1-year plan	$4.29/mo	$3.19/mo
2-year plan	$2.69/mo	$1.99/mo

For users seeking an affordable VPN solution, Surfshark stands out with its competitive long-term pricing. While the monthly plan runs $15.45, committing to longer terms brings substantial savings.

The one-year subscription drops to $3.19 per month, but the best value comes with the two-year plan at just $1.99 per month. These extended plans combine advanced security features with budget-friendly pricing.

NordVPN’s prices are a bit higher. Their two-year plan costs $2.69 per month, and the one-year plan is $4.29 per month. These rates are still competitive but not as budget-friendly as Surfshark’s. The exception is NordVPN’s monthly plan, which costs a lower price of $12.99 compared to Surfshark’s $15.45.

Payment options

Both Surfshark and NordVPN offer a wide range of secure payment methods, including:

• Credit/debit cards;
• PayPal;
• Google Pay and Apple Pay;
• Cryptocurrencies (for anonymous payments).

NordVPN stands out by also allowing cash payments at select retail stores, a useful option for those who prefer to keep their purchases private without relying on crypto.

Summing up

In terms of overall affordability, Surfshark offers better pricing for long-term commitments. Its two-year and one-year plans are more budget-friendly than NordVPN’s equivalent options.

 

NordVPN, on the other hand, presents a more cost-effective choice for short-term users, with its one-month plan priced lower than Surfshark’s. Additionally, NordVPN’s unique cash payment option at select retail stores provides an extra layer of anonymity for privacy-conscious users.

Server locations

The size and distribution of a VPN server network significantly impact the quality of its service. While a larger number of servers reduces congestion, a diverse geographic distribution provides more options for maintaining optimal speeds.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN offer thousands of servers worldwide, albeit with some notable differences:

Surfshark’s server network

Surfshark operates over 4,500 servers across 100 countries, providing broad geographic coverage. This makes Surfshark one of the most globally distributed VPN providers, making it easy for users to find a fast server near their physical location.

In addition to its standard servers, Surfshark offers:

• Dedicated IP servers, allowing users to access the same IP (Internet Protocol) address consistently;
• Multi Hop (double VPN) servers, which route traffic through two VPN locations for enhanced privacy;
• Servers optimized for secure file exchange between peers;
• Obfuscated servers, built to help you access the internet freely, even in heavily restricted regions like China and the UAE.

The combination of global reach and specialized servers makes Surfshark an excellent option for users who prioritize flexibility in their server selection.

NordVPN’s server network

As our NordVPN review highlights, NordVPN has a significantly larger total server count, with over 8,400 servers in more than 167 countries. This extensive infrastructure means users have more server options to choose from, further reducing the risk of overcrowding and ensuring stable performance even during peak hours.

NordVPN also offers:

• Double VPN servers, encrypting data twice for extra security;
• Onion Over VPN, specialty servers allowing users to route traffic through the Tor network for maximum anonymity;
• Obfuscated servers, designed to bypass internet restrictions in highly censored regions such as China and the UAE.

With nearly double the number of servers Surfshark offers, NordVPN’s server density offers better load balancing and potentially more reliable connections in high-traffic areas.

Summing up

Users who prioritize a higher server count should consider NordVPN, as its larger infrastructure helps further prevent congestion and facilitates consistent performance in high-demand regions.

 

That said, Surfshark’s widespread geographic coverage and specialized servers make it a strong competitor and a great choice for global access and privacy for most users.

Server speeds

A VPN’s speed directly affects streaming quality, online gaming performance, and the overall internet browsing experience. While VPNs naturally introduce some slowdown due to traffic encryption and rerouting, the best providers minimize this impact by offering optimized servers, high-speed protocols, and efficient network management.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN are considered fast VPNs, but speed tests reveal some differences in download and upload performance across different locations:

Download speed retention (baseline speed 940Mbps)*

Server location	NordVPN	Surfshark
Local	97% (912Mbps)	96% (904Mbps)
London, UK	91% (853Mbps)	90% (846Mbps)
New York, US	88% (823Mbps)	84% (790Mbps)
Perth, Australia	67% (633Mbps)	49% (465Mbps)
Tokyo, Japan	62% (586Mbps)	66% (616Mbps)

Upload speed retention (baseline speed 940Mbps)*

Server location	NordVPN	Surfshark
Local	46% (430Mbps)	61% (569Mbps)
London, UK	95% (892Mbps)	18% (173Mbps)
New York, US	74% (695Mbps)	10% (92Mbps)
Perth, Australia	69% (648Mbps)	16% (152Mbps)
Tokyo, Japan	63% (593Mbps)	26% (248Mbps)

*Based on tests performed by cybernews.com

Note: Speed test results can vary depending on factors such as the distance between the VPN server and the user, the user’s internet service provider, and server overcrowding.

Surfshark’s performance

According to Cybernews, Surfshark has significantly improved its speed performance over the years, largely due to its adoption of the WireGuard protocol. The tests performed by Cybernews show that Surfshark delivers download and upload speeds averaging 724 and 247Mbps, respectively, making it more than capable of handling high-bandwidth activities like 4K streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers.

Surfshark also performs well for long-distance connections, an area where some VPNs tend to struggle. However, Surfshark’s OpenVPN protocol is noticeably slower than WireGuard. While OpenVPN remains a strong choice for security, Surfshark users prioritizing speed should stick to WireGuard for best performance.

NordVPN’s performance

NordVPN consistently ranks as one of the fastest VPNs on the market. This is primarily due to its proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is based on WireGuard but optimized for better privacy and performance.

The tests conducted by Cybernews reveal that NordVPN averages approximately 761Mbps download and 652Mbps upload speeds. This translates to 81% and 69% speed retention, outperforming Surfshark’s 77% and 26%.

Summing up

NordVPN’s higher performance in speed tests gives it an advantage for those who need maximum speed for gaming, streaming, or large downloads. This type of user will benefit from NordVPN’s faster performance, particularly with its NordLynx protocol.

 

Users with more casual bandwidth needs should still consider Surfshark, which remains one of the fastest VPNs on the market. With the WireGuard protocol, Surfshark can offer more than adequate speeds for gaming or 4K streaming.

Streaming performance

Streaming is one of the most bandwidth-intensive online activities. Whether accessing content when traveling to a different country, securing your connection while watching online videos, or increasing privacy while playing multiplayer games, a VPN should provide smooth and secure performance.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN support major streaming platforms, but their reliability and speed can vary.

Disclaimer: Please note that using Surfshark services for any illegal activities is strictly forbidden and violates our Terms of Service. Make sure that any use of Surfshark services for your particular activities conforms to all relevant laws and regulations, including those of any service providers and websites you access using Surfshark.

Streaming platforms

Platform	NordVPN	Surfshark
Netflix
Amazon Prime Video
Hulu
HBO Max
Disney+
BBC iPlayer
YouTube and YouTube TV
Apple TV

Surfshark and NordVPN both work with popular streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and HBO Max. However, some differences set them apart in terms of consistency and ease of access.

Surfshark securely connects to multiple content libraries and helps overcome activity-based ISP (Internet Service Provider) throttling. The service also includes Clean Web, which blocks ads and trackers when watching in-browser. This creates a smoother experience by eliminating distracting pop-ups and potential security risks.

NordVPN stands out for its consistent, high-quality video performance across different platforms. The service maintains reliable connection speeds and supports a wide range of streaming services.

Gaming

For online gaming, a VPN must provide low latency, stable connections, and reliable DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) protection.

Cybernews tests show that Surfshark has slightly lower ping times across multiple regions, giving it an edge in competitive gaming scenarios. It also offers a unique GPS override function on Android, which can be particularly useful for playing location-based mobile games while traveling.

Summing up

Users who want the broadest range of global streaming libraries and SmartPlay integration will benefit from NordVPN’s consistency. Conversely, those seeking an ad-free streaming experience in the browser should consider Surfshark for its Clean Web feature.

 

For gaming, Surfshark is great for mobile gamers looking to use a GPS override feature when they travel, but NordVPN provides lower latency and better speeds.

Security and encryption

Security is the most critical aspect of a VPN. While speed is important, the primary function of a VPN is to protect user data, encrypt online activity, and prevent unauthorized tracking.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN use top-grade encryption and offer additional security features to enhance online privacy. Does this mean you can’t go wrong with either of them?

Let’s find out:

Encryption

Both Surfshark and NordVPN use top-tier encryption based on AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20-Poly1305, the same ciphers adopted by modern security protocols like TLS 1.3.

These provide authenticated encryption, which offers data confidentiality, integrity, and better performance than older AES-256-CBC implementations.

NordVPN uses AES-256-GCM with OpenVPN and ChaCha20-Poly1305 with its proprietary NordLynx protocol (a WireGuard variant). Surfshark follows the same approach — AES-256-GCM for OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec, and ChaCha20-Poly1305 for WireGuard.

Both providers also implement PFS (Perfect Forward Secrecy), meaning session keys are rotated frequently so that compromising one key can’t expose past or future sessions.

In short, Surfshark and NordVPN use equally strong, state-of-the-art encryption. Any security advantage lies less in the cipher choice and more in supporting architecture — NordVPN’s NordLynx adds privacy through a double-NAT system, while Surfshark’s configuration emphasizes speed and simplicity.

Kill switch

A kill switch is an essential security feature that prevents data leaks if a VPN connection unexpectedly drops. Without a kill switch, a brief VPN outage could easily expose a user’s real IP address and location.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN include a system-wide kill switch, which immediately cuts off all internet access if the VPN disconnects. This ensures that no data is transmitted over an unprotected connection.

NordVPN also offers an app-level kill switch, letting users block specific applications from accessing the internet if the VPN disconnects while keeping other apps online. This provides greater flexibility for users who want to maintain certain connections even when the VPN is down.

Obfuscation technology

Stealth VPN (also known as obfuscation) hides your data and makes your VPN connection much more difficult to identify. This helps users bypass strict censorship and VPN restrictions in countries with limited internet freedom, like China, Russia, and the UAE.

With Surfshark, obfuscation works automatically when you connect to a server using the OpenVPN protocol. NordVPN offers obfuscated servers that users manually select to bypass VPN blocks.

Surfshark also has a No Borders feature that automatically detects network restrictions and enables the best settings to bypass censorship. No Borders is useful for users in countries with restricted internet access, as it supports a stable, unrestricted VPN connection without requiring manual configuration.

Summing up

Surfshark focuses on ease of use and adaptability. Its No Borders automatically detects and adjusts to restrictive networks, making it simpler to connect in countries with censorship or heavy firewall rules.

 

NordVPN, meanwhile, provides a few extra layers of control and privacy, including app-specific kill switch options and its NordLynx protocol — a customized version of WireGuard designed to enhance anonymity through a double-NAT system.

 

In essence, both VPNs offer equally strong encryption and core security, but Surfshark emphasizes accessibility and convenience, while NordVPN leans toward advanced configurability.

Bundled products

Beyond basic security and encryption, many VPN providers offer additional tools to enhance privacy, usability, and customization. Surfshark and NordVPN both provide a range of extra products, but Surfshark includes several unique options that set it apart:

Ad blocker

Surfshark comes with Clean Web, an ad blocker that prevents intrusive ads, trackers, and malicious websites from interrupting browsing sessions. This feature is particularly useful for in-browser streaming, as it can help block ads, making for a smoother viewing experience.

NordVPN offers a similar feature called Threat Protection, which not only blocks ads and trackers but also scans downloaded files for malware. However, Threat Protection’s full capabilities are only available on desktop, while Surfshark’s Clean Web works across all devices.

Split tunneling

Split tunneling allows users to select which applications use the VPN connection and which ones bypass it. This is useful when users need to maintain local access for certain services while encrypting other traffic.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN support app-based split tunneling, but Surfshark’s Bypasser feature offers additional benefits. For one, users can exclude specific websites from the VPN, rather than just apps, allowing greater flexibility when accessing region-specific content or trusted local services. Second, Surfshark offers split tunneling not only for Windows and Android, but also for iOS (website-level) and macOS, where NordVPN’s split tunneling feature is currently unavailable.

Double VPN

A double VPN routes traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of encryption and making online activity even more difficult to track.

Surfshark’s Multi Hop double VPN feature is customizable. It lets users choose their entry and exit server locations, offering more flexibility than Nord. NordVPN’s Double VPN is pre-configured, meaning users must select from a set list of available server combinations.

For users who need customized routing for maximum security, Surfshark’s Multi Hop offers better flexibility. That said, NordVPN’s Double VPN is still effective for users who prefer a pre-set, optimized experience.

GPS override

Surfshark offers GPS spoofing on Android devices, a feature NordVPN doesn’t provide. This tool allows users to change their device’s GPS location, which is particularly useful for location-based mobile apps and games that rely on GPS tracking.

Disclaimer: Please note that using Surfshark services for any illegal activities is strictly forbidden and violates our Terms of Service. Make sure that any use of Surfshark services for your particular activities conforms to all relevant laws and regulations, including those of any service providers and websites you access using Surfshark.

Dedicated IP

A dedicated IP provides users with a static, personal IP address that is not shared with other users. This can be useful for secure online banking, fewer human verification requests, and remote work access.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN offer dedicated IP functionalities as add-ons. However, NordVPN’s has a lower starting price of $2.99/mo, so it may be a more affordable choice for users who need a consistent IP address.

Alternative ID

Alternative ID, a Surfshark-exclusive product, generates a new online identity, including an email address and name, which can be used for sign-ups and form submissions. This tool helps reduce spam, unwanted tracking, and phishing attempts.

NordVPN doesn’t offer an equivalent, making this a unique advantage of Surfshark.

Alternative number

Another Surfshark-exclusive tool, alternative number, provides a virtual phone number for online accounts and listings — preventing users from exposing their regular phone numbers to potential spam or data leaks.

Surfshark offers the alternative number as a paid add-on, sold separately from Alternative ID.

NordVPN doesn’t include a comparable feature, giving Surfshark an advantage in privacy protection beyond standard VPN features.

Incogni

Incogni is a data removal service that helps users request the deletion of personal information from data brokers. This is particularly valuable for users concerned about online privacy and third-party data harvesting.

Incogni is included in both Surfshark’s and NordVPN’s highest-tier bundles.

Summing up

Surfshark is the better choice for privacy-conscious users, offering Alternative ID, an alternative number add-on, and the GPS override function.

 

On the other hand, NordVPN offers better malware protection through Threat Protection.

 

For users looking for flexible Multi Hop routing, Surfshark is the better option, while NordVPN’s pre-configured Double VPN is ideal for quick setup.

VPN protocols

A VPN protocol determines how data is encrypted and transmitted between a user’s device and the VPN server. The best protocols balance security, speed, and reliability.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN support modern, high-performance protocols, but there are some notable differences in how they implement them:

WireGuard: the fastest VPN protocol

WireGuard is widely regarded as the fastest VPN protocol available today, offering strong security with minimal performance loss.

• Surfshark uses standard WireGuard, bringing high-speed connections with minimal latency;
• NordVPN has a modified version of WireGuard called NordLynx, which adds an extra privacy layer to prevent potential IP leaks.

While WireGuard alone is already a secure and efficient protocol, NordVPN’s NordLynx modification provides additional privacy benefits without compromising speed.

IKEv2/IPSec: best for mobile users

IKEv2/IPSec is an excellent protocol for mobile users, allowing for quick reconnections when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile networks.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN support IKEv2/IPSec, making them great choices for mobile users needing fast and stable VPN connections.

Surfshark supports IKEv2/IPsec across all major platforms, while NordVPN’s Android app omits it — the protocol can only be configured manually. This gives Surfshark an edge for Android users who prefer IKEv2/IPsec.

OpenVPN: a secure and reliable protocol

OpenVPN has long been considered the gold standard for VPN security, offering strong encryption and compatibility across all major devices.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN support OpenVPN in TCP and UDP modes, ensuring a balance between security and performance.

Summing up

Surfshark offers broader IKEv2/IPsec support across devices, giving it a small edge for Android users who prefer this protocol.

 

Conversely, NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol provides an extra privacy layer, making it the better choice for users who want a more secure implementation of WireGuard.

Audits

VPN providers claim to offer strict no-logs policies, strong security, and reliable infrastructure. Without independent verification, these claims are difficult to verify.

Third-party audits provide transparency by allowing cybersecurity firms to assess VPN security measures and privacy policies. Both Surfshark and NordVPN have undergone independent audits, but the scope and frequency of these audits differ.

Let’s take a look:

Surfshark audits

Surfshark has conducted multiple independent audits, focusing on both its security infrastructure and no-logs policy.

• In 2018 and 2021, Surfshark underwent a security infrastructure audit conducted by Cure53, a well-known cybersecurity firm. These audits examined Surfshark’s browser extensions and overall server security, confirming that its infrastructure is well-secured against potential threats;
• In 2023 and 2025, Surfshark’s no-logs policy was verified by Deloitte. These checks confirm that Surfshark doesn’t store or track user activity and reinforce its ongoing commitment to privacy.

Surfshark’s audits are relatively recent, which is a good sign for users who want up-to-date verification of the provider’s security practices. 

NordVPN audits

NordVPN has a longer history of independent audits, making it one of the more transparent VPN providers:

• In 2018 and 2020, PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) conducted audits to verify NordVPN’s no-logs policy, confirming that it doesn’t store user activity or identifiable data;
• In 2023 and 2025, NordVPN underwent Deloitte audits, which reaffirmed its no-logs policy and privacy protections;
• Additionally, NordVPN had its Threat Protection feature audited by Cure53 in 2023, confirming that its built-in malware and ad blocking protections function as advertised.

NordVPN has also published transparency reports detailing government data requests and its consistent refusal to share user information under its no-logs policy. This level of ongoing auditing and transparency reporting makes NordVPN one of the industry’s most well-documented and verified VPN providers.

Summing up

Both Surfshark and NordVPN have undergone independent audits verifying their security and no-logs claims, but NordVPN has a longer history of transparency.

 

Deloitte’s 2025 verification of Surfshark confirmed its no-logs policy, and its security infrastructure has been tested by Cure53. In contrast, NordVPN has been audited multiple times since 2018, with more frequent privacy and security assessments, including third-party audits of extra features like Threat Protection.

Privacy

Privacy is a fundamental concern when selecting a VPN service. Users need assurance that their online activities remain confidential and that their personal data is not subject to unauthorized access or surveillance.

Both Surfshark and NordVPN emphasize user privacy, but there are distinctions in their jurisdictional bases, logging policies, and transparency measures:

Jurisdiction

Surfshark is headquartered in the Netherlands, a Nine Eyes intelligence alliance member. This alliance involves countries that collaborate in sharing intelligence data. While this might raise concerns, Surfshark maintains that it adheres to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring it doesn’t collect or store user activity data.

NordVPN operates out of Panama, a country known for its privacy-friendly laws and absence of mandatory data retention requirements. Panama is also outside the jurisdiction of international surveillance alliances like the Five, Nine, and Fourteen Eyes, providing users added privacy assurance.

Logging policy

Both VPN providers assert a strict no-activity-logs policy, meaning they do not monitor, record, or store any information about user activities.

In 2023 and 2025, Deloitte verified Surfshark’s no-activity-logs policy in two independent checks. These confirm that Surfshark doesn’t store user activity data and reinforce its commitment to user privacy.

In NordVPN’s case, PwC Switzerland verified its no-logs policy in independent audits in 2018 and 2020. More recently, in 2023 and 2025, Deloitte conducted audits reaffirming that NordVPN doesn’t log user activities.

Transparency measures

Transparency is crucial for building trust with users. Both providers have taken steps to demonstrate their commitment to privacy and security.

Surfshark has implemented RAM-only servers, wiping all data after every reboot and minimizing the risk of data retention. Additionally, Surfshark offers features like Multi Hop, which routes traffic through multiple servers for enhanced privacy, and Clean Web, which blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites.

NordVPN has also transitioned to a RAM-only server infrastructure, enhancing data security by ensuring that no information is stored long-term. NordVPN provides features such as Double VPN, which routes traffic through two servers for added security, and Onion Over VPN, which combines VPN encryption with the anonymity of the Tor network. 

Summing up

Both Surfshark and NordVPN prioritize user privacy through strict no-logs policies, independent audits, and advanced security features. However, there are subtle differences.

 

For one, NordVPN is based in Panama, a country outside international surveillance alliances, offering an advantage for users deeply concerned about jurisdictional privacy implications.

 

In terms of transparency, both providers have demonstrated success through independent audits and the implementation of RAM-only servers, but NordVPN has a longer history of such practices.

Customer support

When it comes to customer support, both Surfshark and NordVPN offer excellent service, giving users access to assistance whenever needed. Both providers have comprehensive help centers with detailed guides, 24/7 live chat support, and email assistance.

That said, there are subtle differences in how each VPN approaches customer service, which could influence your decision.

Support channels 

Neither Surfshark nor NordVPN provides phone support, but they both excel in offering fast and effective assistance through other channels. The most notable support options include:

Support option	NordVPN	Surfshark
24/7 live chat
Email support
Help center and guides
Phone support

Both providers prioritize live chat as their primary support channel, enabling users to quickly connect with an agent for real-time troubleshooting. During third-party testing, responses from both Surfshark and NordVPN’s live chat agents were nearly instant, with wait times of less than a minute in most cases. Surfshark’s team stood out for their friendly and engaging approach, while NordVPN’s representatives provided detailed and informative responses.

Availability and ease of access

Surfshark and NordVPN have extensive online knowledge bases, making it easy for users to find answers to common questions without contacting customer support. Their support pages feature FAQs, setup guides, troubleshooting steps, and detailed articles covering everything from installation to advanced security configurations.

Surfshark’s support site is a more traditional knowledge base with well-organized categories that make it easy to navigate through articles. On the other hand, NordVPN’s help center includes interactive troubleshooting tools to guide users through common issues.

Ticketing system and email response time

For more complex inquiries, both VPNs offer email support. If a live chat agent can’t resolve an issue immediately, they create a support ticket, and users receive a response via email.

In tests, Surfshark and NordVPN both responded to email inquiries within a few hours with detailed solutions tailored to the specific problem.

Summing up

Both Surfshark and NordVPN deliver excellent customer service with minimal wait times and knowledgeable support agents. Surfshark’s customer support stands out for its friendly and personable approach, while NordVPN’s help center is slightly more structured, offering additional troubleshooting tools.

 

Ultimately, both providers perform equally well in customer support. No matter which VPN you choose, you can expect reliable and professional assistance whenever you need it.

Reddit reviews: Surfshark vs. NordVPN

When choosing between Surfshark and NordVPN, Reddit users offer valuable insights based on their personal experiences. Here’s a selection of comments from various discussions on the subject:

Comment
by u/Prog47 from discussion
in surfshark

Comment
by u/Prog47 from discussion
in surfshark

Comment
by u/Prog47 from discussion
in surfshark

Comment
by u/Prog47 from discussion
in surfshark

Disclaimer: The reviews highlighted in this section were selected from publicly available posts on social media platforms. They reflect the opinions of individual users at the time of posting and may not represent the full range of our product features and qualities.

Summing up

Reddit users’ experiences with Surfshark and NordVPN vary based on individual needs and priorities. Surfshark is appreciated for its affordability and unlimited device policy, while NordVPN is often favored for its stability and performance.

 

Potential users should consider these factors alongside their specific requirements when choosing between the two services.

Conclusion: two heavyweights with different strengths

Both Surfshark and NordVPN are top-tier VPN services, offering strong security, extensive server networks, and fast speeds.

Surfshark stands out for its affordability, unlimited device connections, and unique privacy features, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users. Meanwhile, NordVPN excels in speed, security, and transparency, with a longer history of independent audits and many unique perks. 

In the end, the choice depends on individual needs — Surfshark is great for cost-effective flexibility, while NordVPN is better suited for those with more intensive bandwidth needs.

Surfshark vs. other VPN providers

See how Surfshark’s features, pricing, and performance compare to other VPN providers:

• Surfshark vs. PIA
• Surfshark vs. NordVPN
• Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN
• Surfshark vs. CyberGhost
• Surfshark vs. ProtonVPN
• Surfshark vs. Mullvad
• Surfshark vs. Windscribe

These comparison articles break down encryption protocols, server networks, connection speeds, and privacy policies to help you choose the best option. For an in-depth look at Surfshark alone, read our Surfshark review.

FAQ

Does Surfshark work with Netflix?

Yes, Surfshark can help you maintain your privacy while streaming Netflix and accessing your home content library when traveling abroad. It focuses on providing a secure, private connection to enhance your streaming experience.

Is Surfshark owned by NordVPN?

No, Surfshark is not owned by NordVPN. In February 2022, Surfshark merged with Nord Security, the parent company behind NordVPN, under the same holding group. 

However, both companies continue to operate as autonomous brands with independent infrastructures, product development plans, and customer bases.

Is Surfshark better than NordVPN?

Surfshark and NordVPN both offer strong privacy features, but the better choice depends on your personal needs. Surfshark is known for its unlimited device connections, while NordVPN is often praised for its speed and advanced security options.