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 May 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	Surfshark	NordVPN
Lowest monthly price	$1.99/month	$3.09/month
Money-back guarantee	30 days	30 days
Server countries	100	211
No. of servers	4,500+	9,400+
Subscription coverage	Unlimited devices	10 devices
Protocols	Dausos, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2	NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2
Data encryption	AEGIS-256X2, AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20	AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20
Top speed*	1,600+ Mbps	1,250+ Mbps
Cookie pop-up blocker
Ad blocker	(Clean Web)	(Threat Protection & Threat Protection Pro)
Most recent independent audit	(Deloitte, 2025)	(Deloitte, 2025)
10 Gbps servers	(All)	(All)
24/7 support
Operating systems	Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, tvOS	Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, tvOS
No-logs policy	(Netherlands jurisdiction)	(Panama jurisdiction)
Dedicated IP address	($3.75/mo, 15 countries)	($3.69/mo, 27 countries)
Malware blocker	(Clean Web)	(Threat Protection Lite)
Data leak alert	(Alert)	(Dark Web Monitor)

*Based on tests performed by TechRadar

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 delivers faster speeds: speed tests show that Surfshark reaches speeds over 1,600Mbps, while Nord achieves more than 1,250Mbps. In addition, Surfshark’s proprietary Dausos protocol reaches speeds up to 30% faster than industry-standard protocols. Surfshark also has the world’s first 100Gbps VPN servers, giving users even faster connections;
• 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;
• Surfshark’s technological innovations continuously offer an enhanced experience: Nexus technology connects Surfshark’s VPN servers into a single network, enabling features like the Multi Hop double VPN, Multi IP, and rotating IP;   
• 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 is more affordable long-term: Surfshark offers better pricing on long-term plans, with its two-year basic subscription costing just $1.99 per month compared to NordVPN’s $3.09 per month;
• NordVPN has a larger server network: with 9,400+ servers compared to 4,500+ servers, NordVPN has more server options. That said, Surfshark’s global network of reliable, high-performance servers in 100 countries — backed by the self-healing Surfshark Everlink server infrastructure — helps ensure better connection stability;
• NordVPN has unique options 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. Surfshark also 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: Surfshark has a better double VPN if you prefer to pick your entry and exit points for double encryption. If you want a pre-set, optimized double VPN experience, NordVPN works well.

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

Subscription cost

The pricing of a VPN service plays a key role for users seeking long-term VPN value. Surfshark and NordVPN both offer significant discounts on longer subscriptions, with Surfshark providing better value. Here’s how their lowest-tier plans compare (Surfshark’s Starter plan and NordVPN’s Basic plan): 

Pricing

Plan	Surfshark	NordVPN
1-month plan	$15.45/mo	$12.99/mo
1-year plan	$3.19/mo	$4.29/mo
2-year plan	$1.99/mo	$3.09/mo

For users seeking an affordable VPN solution, Surfshark stands out with its competitive long-term pricing. The best value is the two-year plan at just $1.99 per month, which combines advanced security features with budget-friendly pricing. One-year subscriptions cost $3.19 per month, and the monthly plan runs $15.45.

NordVPN’s prices are a bit higher. Their two-year plan costs $3.09 per month, and the one-year plan is $4.99 per month. These rates are still competitive but not as budget-friendly as Surfshark’s. The exception is NordVPN’s monthly plan, which costs $12.99 compared to Surfshark’s $15.45.

If you want to test a VPN for free, Surfshark is a better choice because of its 7-day free trial, which lets you try the VPN service on three devices running any major operating system. Nord offers a 3-day free trial that’s only available to Android users via Google Play. 

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.

NordVPN also allows cash payments at select retail stores.

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.

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. Also, generally speaking, server quality matters more than quantity.

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:

• 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 world’s first 100Gbps VPN servers in Amsterdam, which make it easier to get a smooth and uninterrupted internet experience.

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

NordVPN’s server network

As our NordVPN review highlights, NordVPN has over 9,400+ servers in more than 211 countries. This extensive infrastructure means users have many server options, reducing the risk of overcrowding and promoting stable performance. 

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.

NordVPN’s server density offers good load balancing and reliable connections in high-traffic areas.

Summing up

Surfshark offers widespread geographic coverage and specialized servers, making it a smart choice for global access and privacy. Its network of well-maintained, high-performance VPN servers is an excellent option for users who want both fast speeds and robust privacy protection.

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 that Surfshark outperforms NordVPN in many situations.

	Surfshark	NordVPN
Top speed	1,600+ Mbps	1,250+ Mbps

*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

Independent speed tests found that Surfshark was the fastest VPN on the market. Surfshark delivers high upload and download speeds over WireGuard, making the VPN more than capable of handling high-bandwidth activities like 4K streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers.  

On top of this, macOS users connecting with Surfshark’s Dausos protocol can see VPN speeds up to 30% faster than with industry-standard protocols. Surfshark also performs well for long-distance connections, an area where some VPNs tend to struggle. 

Other protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2 are available, but users prioritizing speed should use WireGuard or Dausos for the best performance.

NordVPN’s performance

NordVPN is considered a fast VPN primarily because of its proprietary NordLynx protocol. Based on WireGuard, NordLynx is optimized for privacy and performance.

Summing up

As the fastest VPN on the market, Surfshark helps users who need maximum speeds for their online activities. With the Dausos and WireGuard protocols, Surfshark consistently offers excellent speeds for activities like gaming, 4K streaming, and downloading large files.

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	Surfshark	NordVPN
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. Like Surfshark, NordVPN is compatible with consistent, high-quality video performance across different platforms. Both services maintain reliable connection speeds and support a wide range of streaming services.

That said, Surfshark stands out for its Clean Web feature, which blocks ads and trackers while you stream in your browser. This creates a smoother experience by eliminating distracting pop-ups and potential security risks.

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 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

Surfshark’s fast speeds, Clean Web feature, and low ping make it an excellent choice for gaming. Mobile gamers can also benefit from its GPS override feature when traveling.
 
NordVPN’s global streaming library and SmartPlay integration can be helpful to online gamers as well.

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.

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

However, Surfshark goes a step further with its Dausos protocol. Dausos uses AEGIS-256X2 encryption, which delivers faster speeds than the industry-standard AES-GCM, especially on modern devices.

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 general, Surfshark and NordVPN use strong, state-of-the-art encryption, but Surfshark’s AEGIS-256X2 encryption offers faster speeds.

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 (Internet Protocol) 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 that terminates specific applications if the VPN disconnects while keeping other apps open and 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 the fact that you’re using a VPN. 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

Both VPNs offer strong encryption and core security, but Surfshark has an advantage with the Dausos protocol and its AEGIS-256X2 encryption. Surfshark’s No Borders also automatically detects and adjusts to restrictive networks, making it simpler to connect in countries with censorship or heavy firewall rules.
 
NordVPN, meanwhile, leans toward advanced configurability with options like an app-specific kill switch.

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 blocks ads and trackers, and a Pro version that adds malware scanning for downloaded files.

Both features work across desktop and mobile platforms, though NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro is only available on higher-tier plans.

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 split tunneling, but they differ in scope and implementation. Surfshark’s Bypasser feature lets users exclude both apps and websites from the VPN across its main apps. NordVPN’s app-based split tunneling is limited to apps in its desktop and mobile apps, but its browser extension also offers website-level exclusion. This makes Surfshark’s approach more flexible for users who want integrated and app-level control across more platforms.

Surfshark offers split tunneling on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, whereas NordVPN’s split tunneling feature is available on Windows, Android, Android TV, and browser extensions. 

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. 

Antivirus

Surfshark offers a lightweight Antivirus tool with real-time malware protection, scheduled and manual scans, and support for up to 5 devices. NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro provides similar web and download defense with real-time scanning, but it lacks full-device scans.

Antivirus is included with Surfshark One, while Threat Protection Pro comes in NordVPN’s Plus bundle. For one- and two-year subscriptions, Surfshark One is more affordable than NordVPN Plus.

Alert

Surfshark Alert is a real-time data leak detection tool that monitors the web for your personal information. You get notified if your email, passwords, or credit card numbers appear in data leaks. 

NordVPN’s Dark Web Monitor has a similar function, but it primarily tracks email leaks linked to your Nord account. To unlock scans for your phone number, credit card information, and national ID number, you’ll need Dark Web Monitor Pro.

Identity theft coverage

Surfshark’s identity theft coverage includes identity recovery support and insurance-like protection in supported regions. Available on Surfshark One+, it covers up to $1M in expenses related to identity restoration, including legal fees, document replacement, and lost wages.

NordVPN offers similar identity theft insurance on its Prime/Ultimate plan (depending on your region). Nevertheless, Surfshark One+ is more affordable than NordVPN Prime/Ultimate. 

Web content blocker

Surfshark’s web content blocker adds category-based filtering to your browsing experience. Users or families can restrict entire types of websites at the device level, so pages in categories like phishing, malware, or adult content won’t be accessible.

NordVPN doesn’t have a similar tool that provides category-based filtering.

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, GPS override, a web content blocker, and more.
 
For users looking for flexible Multi Hop routing, Surfshark is also the better option, while NordVPN’s pre-configured Double VPN is helpful 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:

Dausos: Surfshark’s high-speed proprietary protocol

Built specifically for VPN users, Dausos uses AEGIS-256X2 encryption to deliver faster speeds than standard AES-GCM encryption used by many other protocols. It’s fully post-quantum resilient and delivers up to 30% faster speeds than other protocols.

Currently available on macOS, Surfshark’s Dausos ensures more efficient use of resources, better security, and faster speeds. 

WireGuard: a reliable industry standard

WireGuard is a popular VPN protocol that offers 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 uses a streamlined design to allow for faster speeds. 

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

The Dausos protocol helps Surfshark stand out in terms of protocol speed and security. Surfshark also offers broader IKEv2/IPsec support across devices, giving it an edge for Android users who prefer this protocol.

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 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;
• 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 2025, SecuRing verified that Surfshark’s network infrastructure was protected against disruptions and attacks and aligned with the highest cybersecurity standards. 

This level of ongoing auditing and transparency reporting makes Surfshark one of the industry’s most well-documented and verified VPN providers.

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. NordVPN’s 2025 no-logs audit marks its sixth to date.

NordVPN has also published transparency reports detailing any government data requests.

Summing up

Both Surfshark and NordVPN have undergone independent audits verifying their security and no-logs claims.
 
Deloitte’s 2025 verification of Surfshark confirmed its no-logs policy, and its security infrastructure has been tested by Cure53. Likewise, NordVPN has been audited multiple times since 2018.

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 country known for its strong privacy framework and robust data protection laws. The EU’s GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) sets clear limits on how user data can be handled and gives users added legal protections compared to many other regions.

The Netherlands is part of the Nine Eyes alliance, but Surfshark’s no-logs policy means it doesn’t store any user activity data in the first place.

NordVPN, on the other hand, operates out of Panama, a country known for its privacy-friendly laws. Panama is also outside the Five, Nine, and Fourteen Eyes alliances.

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.

Along with other audits, PwC Switzerland verified NordVPN’s no-logs policy in independent reports 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 security.

Surfshark has implemented RAM-only servers, wiping all data after every reboot and minimizing the risk of data retention. This hardware-level security feature ensures no information can ever be physically retrieved from Surfshark’s servers. 

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. Surfshark also regularly publishes Transparency Report updates to communicate info on legal and government requests, highlighting their dedication to user privacy. 

Similarly, NordVPN has 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 and advanced security features.
 
In terms of transparency, both providers have demonstrated success through independent audits.

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 independent 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.

 

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

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, priorities, operating systems, and use cases. 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 innovative solutions, unlimited device connections, and fast and secure Dausos protocol. It’s the fastest VPN available, offers the best value on the market, and lets users enjoy a comprehensive cybersecurity bundle.

Meanwhile, NordVPN has been on the market longer and boasts good speeds, diverse features, and a reputation for transparency thanks to its many audits.

In the end, both VPN services are excellent, so the ultimate choice depends on your specific needs.

Surfshark vs. other VPN providers

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

• Surfshark vs. PIA;
• 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 innovative solutions, unlimited device connections, and industry-leading speeds.

What does Surfshark include?

All Surfshark plans include a VPN and a broad cybersecurity bundle:

• Surfshark Starter: our VPN, Clean Web ad blocking, and Alternative ID;
• Surfshark One: everything from the Starter plan plus Antivirus, and data leak monitoring from Alert;
• Surfshark One+: everything from Surfshark One, along with online data removal from Incogni and identity theft coverage.