Comparing VPN (Virtual Private Network) providers is pretty tricky, as most of the differences are under the hood.
In this Surfshark vs. Proton VPN comparison review, we will guide you through the benefits and drawbacks of each so you can choose the best VPN for you.
Note: The comparison was updated on May 25, 2026, and the information listed is subject to change.
Surfshark vs. Proton VPN: quick overview
Here’s a quick look at Surfshark’s and Proton VPN’s core features:
|
Feature
|
Surfshark
|
Proton VPN
|
|
Lowest monthly price
|
$2.49/mo
|
$2.99/mo*
|
|
Money-back guarantee
|
30 days
|
30 days
|
|
Server countries
|
100
|
145
|
|
No. of servers
|
4,500+
|
20,000+
|
|
Subscription coverage
|
Unlimited devices
|
10 devices
|
|
Protocols
|
Dausos, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
|
WireGuard, OpenVPN, Stealth
|
|
Data encryption
|
AEGIS-256X2, AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20
|
AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20
|
|
Top speed**
|
1615 Mbps
|
1512 Mbps
|
|
Cookie pop-up blocker
|
|
|
|
Ad blocker
|
(Clean Web)
|
(NetShield)
|
|
Independent audit
|
(Deloitte, 2025)
|
(Securitum, 2025)
|
|
10 Gbps servers
|
(All)
|
(Some)
|
|
24/7 support
|
|
(Paid plans)
|
|
Operating systems
|
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, tvOS, and more
|
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, tvOS, and more
|
|
No-logs policy
|
(Netherlands jurisdiction)
|
(Switzerland jurisdiction)
|
|
Dedicated IP address
|
($3.75/mo, 15 countries)
|
(Only for business users)
|
|
Malware blocker
|
(Clean Web)
|
(NetShield)
|
*A free VPN with limited features is available.
**Based on tests performed by TechRadar.
Note: Prices are listed in US dollars and are accurate as of May 25, 2026.
Key differences between Surfshark and Proton VPN
Surfshark and Proton VPN both offer strong security protocols, robust no-logs policies, and support for major operating systems, but they differ in the following areas:
- Surfshark has the lowest monthly price: on paid long-term plans, Surfshark VPN offers a better price. Surfshark starts at $2.49/mo for a two-year subscription, compared to Proton VPN’s $2.99/mo starting rate;
- Surfshark has faster speeds: independent third-party speed tests found that Surfshark offers the fastest VPN connection speeds on the market;
- Surfshark allows unlimited connections: Surfshark covers unlimited simultaneous connections under one account, while Proton VPN limits you to only 10 devices per subscription;
- Surfshark exclusively has 10 Gbps servers: Surfshark has upgraded its entire server network to 10 Gbps servers, with 100 Gbps servers in the Netherlands, while Proton VPN has some of its servers upgraded to 10 Gbps, with the rest being at least 1 Gbps;
- Surfshark offers unique, innovative VPN features: Surfshark utilizes postquantum encryption (AEGIS-256X2) for future-proof security, as well as the modern server infrastructure with Nexus technology that provides features like Multi Hop double VPN, Multi IP, and rotating IP;
- Surfshark delivers 24/7 customer support: Surfshark VPN users can get assistance anytime via live chat. Proton also has live chat support for customers, but it’s only available for paid users;
- Surfshark offers a cookie pop-up blocker: through the Clean Web browser extension, Surfshark blocks cookie pop-ups, ads, and malware. While Proton VPN has an ad and malware blocker, it doesn’t block cookie pop-ups;
- Surfshark and Proton VPN have their own proprietary protocols: Surfshark introduced a new protocol, Dausos, designed specifically for optimized VPN user experience; Proton includes its proprietary Stealth protocol, meant for easier access in restrictive regions;
- Both offer unique bundles: Surfshark VPN comes bundled with an antivirus, a data leak monitoring tool, a private search engine, and an alternative online persona generator. Meanwhile, Proton VPN comes with a password manager, encrypted email, and secure data storage;
- Proton VPN offers a free plan: Proton VPN has a limited version people can use at no cost. Proton VPN’s free plan only secures one device at a time, offers medium VPN speeds, and limits access to VPN servers in five random countries. On the other hand, Surfshark offers an unlimited 7-day free trial available on three devices under one account;
- Proton VPN has a larger server network: Proton VPN advertises 20,000+ servers available across 145 countries, while Surfshark offers 4,500+ servers in 100 countries.
Subscription cost
VPN cost plays a key role in many users’ buying decisions, so it’s worth comparing Surfshark’s and Proton VPN’s prices across their different plans. Here’s a pricing breakdown for the most affordable bundle across different subscription lengths.
Pricing
|
Plan
|
Surfshark
|
Proton VPN
|
|
2-year
|
$2.49/mo
|
$2.99/mo
|
|
1-year
|
$3.19/mo
|
$3.99/mo
|
|
1-month
|
$15.45/mo
|
$9.99/mo
|
Surfshark offers more competitive prices on its long-term plans: Surfshark’s two-year plan costs $2.49/mo, while Proton VPN costs $2.99/mo; Surfshark’s one-year plan is also lower at $3.19/mo, compared to Proton VPN’s $3.99.
That said, Proton VPN has a lower starting price for a one-month subscription at $9.99/mo, compared to Surfshark’s $15.45/mo.
It’s also worth noting that Proton VPN offers a free subscription, but this comes with limited security features and doesn’t give users access to Proton’s full server network, while Surfshark offers a free 7-day trial with full access to its features and server network.
Payment options
Both Proton VPN and Surfshark offer the following secure payment methods:
- Credit/debit cards;
- PayPal;
- Google Pay;
- Cryptocurrencies.
Surfshark also allows payments via Apple Pay on its website, while Proton VPN only lets you use those methods on compatible Apple devices. That said, Proton VPN also accepts payments with cash and bank transfers.
Summing up
In terms of long-term value, Surfshark offers better pricing on its one-year and two-year plans.
Proton VPN, however, is more cost-effective for short-term users or those who are only interested in the free plan.
Server locations
A VPN server network’s size and geographical distribution can significantly impact the service’s quality. A larger server network can help lower congestion, while widespread distribution provides more options for maintaining high speeds. However, generally speaking, server quality matters more than quantity.
Here’s a comparison of Surfshark’s and Proton VPN’s server networks.
Surfshark’s server network
Surfshark has 4,500+ servers across 100 countries on six continents, giving users broad geographic coverage. Surfshark is one of the most globally distributed VPN providers, making it easier for most users to connect to a high-speed server near their physical location.
All Surfshark VPN servers are 10 Gbps, RAM-only servers, meaning users get high speeds and enhanced privacy protection.
Moreover, Surfshark offers the following:
- 100 Gbps servers in the Netherlands for even faster speeds;
- Double VPN servers (known as Multi Hop), which route traffic through two VPN locations for greater privacy;
- Dedicated IP servers, which let users consistently access the same IP (Internet Protocol) address, reserved exclusively for them;
- Obfuscated servers, which make detecting VPN traffic more difficult and help access the internet more freely, especially in heavily restricted areas.
Proton VPN’s server network
Proton VPN operates a server network with 20,000+ servers in 145 countries. This large infrastructure makes it easier to find nearby, uncongested servers.
Proton VPN also offers:
- Secure Core servers, which improve online security by protecting users from compromised servers;
- Tor over VPN, which uses specialized servers to let you route traffic through the Tor network;
- Full-disk encryption over all VPN servers.
Summing up
Surfshark is a smart choice if you value widespread geographic distribution, as well as high-speed performance and a stable internet connection with at least 10 Gbps servers.
On the other hand, if a high overall server count is your main priority, Proton VPN’s expansive infrastructure of 20,000+ servers is worth considering.
Server speeds
VPN speed is important when you want to access streaming services, game online, or just have a smooth browsing experience.
Since VPNs encrypt your data and route your traffic through an added server, they naturally introduce some reduction in speed. However, the best providers minimize this impact through high-speed servers, efficient protocols, and proper network management.
Surfshark and Proton VPN are among the fastest VPNs on the market, but TechRadar’s speed tests show some differences.
|
|
Surfshark
|
Proton VPN
|
|
Top speed
|
1,615 Mbps (WireGuard)
978 Mbps (OpenVPN) |
1,521 Mbps (WireGuard)
240 Mbps (OpenVPN) |
Note: Speed test results can vary depending on factors such as the distance between the VPN server and the user, the user’s ISP (Internet Service Provider), and server overcrowding.
Surfshark’s performance
Independent speed tests rank Surfshark as the fastest VPN. With the WireGuard protocol, Surfshark delivers high upload and download speeds that easily accommodate high-bandwidth activities like 4K streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers.
Additionally, macOS users can take advantage of Surfshark’s Dausos protocol, which can boost connection speeds by up to 30% over industry-standard options. Surfshark also maintains strong, reliable performance on long-distance connections, an area where many VPNs experience slowdowns.
While alternative protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2 remain available, users prioritizing speed and optimal performance should use Dausos or WireGuard.
Proton VPN’s performance
Proton VPN has made significant infrastructure leaps and performed well in the same speed test, especially on the WireGuard protocol, securing its position as one of the market’s top providers for speed.
Summing up
Surfshark is the faster choice overall, leading with 1,615 Mbps on WireGuard and a strong 978 Mbps on OpenVPN. While Proton VPN is closely competitive on WireGuard at 1,521 Mbps, its OpenVPN speed falls behind at 240 Mbps.
Streaming performance
Streaming may be bandwidth-intensive, but securely accessing streaming services is important to many VPN users. Whether you want to watch your favorites from home while traveling abroad or privately play a multiplayer game, a VPN should give you a safer, smoother connection.
Both Proton VPN and Surfshark support major streaming platforms, but performance can still 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
|
Proton VPN
|
|
Netflix
|
|
|
|
Amazon Prime Video
|
|
|
|
Hulu
|
|
|
|
HBO Max
|
|
|
|
Disney+
|
|
|
|
BBC iPlayer
|
|
|
|
YouTube and YouTube TV
|
|
|
|
Apple TV+
|
|
|
Surfshark and Proton VPN are both compatible with popular streaming services, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.
Where do the two VPN providers differ?
Surfshark’s higher download speeds give it a slight edge here, as users are more likely to get smooth streams with less buffering. In addition, one Surfshark subscription supports unlimited simultaneous connections. If you’re traveling with family, every member of your household can safely access their favorite content when abroad.
Gaming
A good gaming VPN has to offer users stable connections and reliable DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) protection. Both Surfshark and Proton VPN do just that.
Since Surfshark performed slightly better in download speed tests, it’s the safer bet for online gaming. It also has a handy GPS override function on Android devices that can assist gamers playing location-based mobile games while traveling.
Summing up
Users looking to safely access their home streaming libraries should have a positive experience with both Surfshark and Proton VPN. Surfshark’s faster connection speeds make it a more reliable choice for streaming and gaming, even if the difference isn’t substantial.
Security and encryption
Through IP address masking and online traffic encryption, the main functions of a VPN are to preserve privacy and protect user data. Both Surfshark and Proton VPN use modern encryption and come with advanced security features that increase online privacy.
Encryption
Both Surfshark and Proton VPN use AES-256 encryption, which is often considered the industry standard. Even governments and financial institutions use this technology, as it’s known for its rock-solid security. The services deploy AES-256 encryption for OpenVPN protocol connections, with Surfshark also applying it to the IKEv2 protocol.
The two providers also support ChaCha20 encryption for the WireGuard protocol to maintain strong security and optimize data speeds.
Surfshark additionally integrates the advanced, quantum-resistant AEGIS-256X2 cipher into its proprietary Dausos protocol, minimizing latency and packet overhead on supported devices. Proton VPN only plans to implement post-quantum encryption in the future.
Kill switch
A kill switch is an important VPN security feature that cuts off your internet if your VPN connection drops. It ensures your location, IP address, and unencrypted traffic don’t accidentally get exposed.
Both Surfshark and Proton VPN include a system-wide kill switch.
The Proton VPN app goes one step further and offers a permanent kill switch. Unlike a traditional kill switch, this stays active at all times, even if you manually disconnect your VPN. Since some users may want to visit certain sites without VPN protection, this isn’t necessarily better than a standard kill switch, but it can still be useful in some cases.
Surfshark, on the other hand, takes another proactive approach. Beyond a kill switch, Surfshark introduced its patented Everlink technology, which is automatically applied when using WireGuard and acts as a self-healing system that seamlessly redirects your traffic to another server rather than cutting off your internet. This helps avoid downtime while keeping your data continuously protected.
Obfuscation technology
Obfuscation, or cloaking, disguises your VPN traffic, making it much harder to detect. This feature is helpful for users looking to overcome oppressive censorship in countries that restrict internet access.
Surfshark automatically applies obfuscation to all OpenVPN connections, removing the need for manual setup. In comparison, Proton VPN provides obfuscation via its custom Stealth protocol.
In addition to obfuscated servers, Surfshark includes the No Borders feature, which detects severe network restrictions, provides a list of servers best equipped to maintain a stable connection under those conditions, and connects you to the closest one automatically.
Summing up
While both VPNs are highly secure, Surfshark stands out with its post-quantum encryption on its Dausos protocol and self-healing connection stability on WireGuard with Everlink technology.
Proton VPN remains a secure alternative, offering standard encryption and a permanent kill switch for constant protection against unsecured connections.
VPN protocols
A VPN protocol determines how data gets encrypted and transmitted between your device and a VPN server. The best protocols offer a secure connection without sacrificing speed.
Surfshark and Proton VPN support modern, efficient protocols to keep your connections safe and reliable.
Proprietary protocols
Both Surfshark and ProtonVPN have in-house protocols, addressing specific connection challenges.
Surfshark features Dausos (currently available on macOS via the App Store, with broader availability coming soon) — a custom-built consumer protocol designed from scratch to isolate data paths, helping deliver up to 30% faster performance than standard protocols.
Meanwhile, Proton VPN provides Stealth — an open-source obfuscation protocol — that tunnels WireGuard traffic inside a TLS layer to mask VPN signatures, helping users bypass many restrictive firewalls and deep packet inspection.
WireGuard
Experts widely regard WireGuard as the standard VPN protocol for speed and efficiency, offering robust security with minimal impact on connection performance.
Both Surfshark and Proton VPN support the standard WireGuard configurations across their server networks. A key distinction here is that Surfshark includes post-quantum encryption on its standard WireGuard connections by default, whereas Proton VPN is currently updating its client-side architecture for future post-quantum support.
OpenVPN
OpenVPN is a strong, secure protocol, known for overall reliability. However, its platform availability differs significantly between Surfshark and ProtonVPN.
Surfshark offers broad OpenVPN support across almost all operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. Conversely, Proton VPN has retired its legacy OpenVPN configurations to prioritize newer infrastructure, leaving it available only on its Linux GUI app.
Since Surfshark supports OpenVPN across a wider range of devices, it’s a better choice for those who rely on this protocol.
IKEv2/IPSec
IKEv2/IPSec is a great protocol for users who want VPN connectivity on a mobile device, as it allows speedy reconnects when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile networks.
Surfshark continues to maintain native support for IKEv2/IPSec across its application ecosystem (except for Windows). In contrast, Proton VPN has almost completely discontinued IKEv2 support, making Surfshark the primary option if you prefer this protocol.
Summing up
While both services feature their own custom-built protocols, Surfshark holds an advantage in overall flexibility and versatility.
Surfshark offers wide cross-platform support for all industry-standard protocols, while its custom-built Dausos protocol delivers future-proof, post-quantum security and faster speeds.
Conversely, Proton VPN’s Stealth protocol is highly effective for cross-platform obfuscation, but the provider has heavily limited alternative configurations by removing OpenVPN and IKEv2 from major operating systems.
Audits
Independent audits are needed to verify VPN providers’ claims about their security, server infrastructure, and no-logs policies. Third-party checks allow cybersecurity firms to assess VPN services and bring greater transparency to the entire field.
Surfshark audits
Surfshark has conducted multiple audits over the years, focusing on its strict no-logs policy and security infrastructure.
- In 2023 and again in 2025, Deloitte verified Surfshark’s no-logging policy, showcasing our efforts to protect your privacy as you browse the internet;
- In 2018 and 2021, Cure53 reviewed Surfshark’s server infrastructure and browser extensions and found them safe and reliable;
- In 2025, SecuRing tested Surfshark’s infrastructure, simulating real-world attacks, and found no critical vulnerabilities.
These audits provide users with up-to-date information on Surfshark’s security practices. You can find more information in Surfshark’s trust center.
Proton VPN audits
Proton VPN’s history of audits also makes it a trustworthy provider.
- A 2019 review of Proton VPN’s source code from SEC Consult found some vulnerabilities, but these were quickly addressed;
- A 2025 Securitum audit confirmed Proton VPN’s strict no-logs policy for the fourth year in a row;
- Since Proton VPN’s code is open source, the service participates in a bug bounty program that invites security experts to review its apps.
Summing up
Surfshark and Proton VPN have gone through many independent audits to verify their privacy and security, making them both transparent, trustworthy providers.
Privacy
Many users specifically want a VPN to elevate their privacy, so they need to know their online activities and personal data will stay confidential and free from any unauthorized monitoring.
Jurisdiction
Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, a country with strong data protection laws under the European Union’s GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). The Netherlands has no mandatory data retention requirements for VPNs.
Currently, Surfshark isn’t compelled to track, store, or share what you do online, making it a safe, privacy-friendly choice.
Proton VPN is headquartered in Switzerland — a country that isn’t part of the European Union, so it’s not part of any EU data-sharing agreements. Swiss law doesn’t require VPNs to log user activity, and government requests for data must follow strict legal procedures.
Like Surfshark, Proton VPN is also secure for users concerned about surveillance.
Logging policy
Both VPN services have a strict no-logs policy, so they don’t monitor, record, or store any information about your browsing activities.
Surfshark has undergone two independent audits to verify its no-logs policy in 2023 and 2025. Both were conducted by Deloitte, and both confirmed that Surfshark doesn’t store user activity data.
Similarly, Proton VPN has been audited multiple times by Securitum, with the latest check coming in 2025. These also verify that Proton doesn’t keep activity logs.
Transparency and privacy measures
Transparency is vital for building user trust. Both Surfshark and Proton VPN have openly demonstrated their commitment to upholding user privacy.
Surfshark’s servers are all RAM-only. All user data gets wiped with every reboot, minimizing the risk of data retention. Furthermore, Surfshark offers features such as Multi Hop, a double VPN that routes traffic through multiple servers for greater privacy. There’s a Transparency Report that shows whether Surfshark has ever received a gag order, a national security letter, or a government warrant.
Instead of using RAM-only servers, Proton VPN relies on full-disk encryption to protect user data. It also has a double VPN, Tor over VPN, which combines VPN encryption with the anonymity of the Tor network, and a transparency report that shows a summary of received and denied orders.
Summing up
Surfshark and Proton VPN both prioritize user privacy, maintaining public transparency reports and slightly different approaches.
Surfshark provides privacy protections through a RAM-only server fleet that automatically wipes all user data upon reboot, alongside a strict no-logs policy and under the protection of the EU’s GDPR.
While Proton VPN is also highly private, operating under Swiss jurisdiction and including a built-in Tor over VPN feature, it relies on hard drives and full-disk encryption rather than a completely diskless infrastructure.
Customer support
When it comes to customer support, both Surfshark and Proton VPN strive to give users access to help when and where they need it. However, there are minor differences in how each service approaches customer service.
Support channels
|
Support channel
|
Surfshark
|
Proton VPN
|
|
24/7 live chat
|
|
Only for Proton VPN Plus users
|
|
Email
|
|
|
|
Help center and guides
|
|
|
|
Phone
|
|
|
If you run into any VPN-related issues, you’re in good hands with Surfshark and Proton VPN alike.
The biggest difference, though, is that Surfshark offers 24/7 live chat for everyone, while Proton offers live chat exclusively for customers who have purchased a Proton VPN Plus plan.
Ticketing system and email response time
Both VPN services have email support. In Surfshark’s case, this is reserved for more complex inquiries. For Proton, email is also suitable for anyone who isn’t a customer yet.
Summing up
Both Surfshark and Proton VPN provide multiple customer support options. Surfshark’s customer service, however, stands out for its 24/7 live chat option for existing and potential users alike.
Bundled products and features
Leading cybersecurity services offer broader suites that go beyond basic VPN protection. While Surfshark and Proton VPN are no exception, Surfshark includes many products that give it an advantage.
Ad blocker
Surfshark comes with Clean Web, which blocks intrusive ads and trackers and warns about malware while you browse. When used in Surfshark’s browser extension, this feature also blocks cookie pop-ups and gives you alerts if malware is detected or if a page you visit was ever breached.
Proton VPN uses NetShield to block ads, trackers, and malware. Interested users can also track how many ads and trackers are blocked in the NetShield Privacy Panel.
Split tunneling
Split tunneling lets users choose which applications they want covered by VPN protection and which should be excluded. This can be helpful for users who need to access sites that are sensitive to IP changes or VPN traffic.
Surfshark’s Bypasser is natively built into its Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS applications to let users choose which traffic skips the VPN. Depending on the device, users can split traffic at the application, individual IP, or website URL level. Notably, it stands out by offering native website-level split tunneling directly within its iOS app.
Proton VPN offers split tunneling for applications and specific IP addresses on Windows and Android, specific apps on Linux and Android TV, and websites via browser extensions. It also has an experimental app-only version for macOS. However, Proton completely lacks split tunneling support on iOS devices.
Double VPN
A double VPN routes VPN traffic through two servers instead of one, adding extra encryption to your online activity.
Surfshark’s double VPN feature, Multi Hop, is highly customizable, allowing users to choose their preferred entry and exit server locations, alongside a list of pre-selected server pairs.
On the other hand, Proton’s Secure Core double VPN only routes traffic through one of three countries — Switzerland, Iceland, or Sweden. These are highlighted as privacy-friendly, but the limited choices might not be ideal for users who prefer greater flexibility.
GPS override
Surfshark has a GPS spoofing feature for Android devices, something that Proton VPN currently lacks.
GPS spoofing lets you change your Android’s GPS location, which is beneficial for many location-based mobile games and apps that use 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 gives you an IP address that isn’t shared with other users. Using dedicated IP addresses is particularly helpful if you want consistent access to your online bank or remote work network, or if you want to avoid annoying human verification requests.
Surfshark’s dedicated IP is available for all users as a paid add-on for $3.75/mo across 20 global server locations.
Proton VPN limits its dedicated IP add-on for business users.
Alternative ID
Alternative ID is an exclusive Surfshark feature, included with all plans, that generates a new online persona — a name, birth date, email, and home address — to use for online sign-ups and form submissions. It helps you reduce spam in your personal inbox, defend from tracking and personal data exposure, and even lower the risk of phishing attempts.
The only comparable feature Proton offers is the Proton Pass, included in the top-tier plan, which provides “hide-my-email” aliases to keep your primary email private and filter out incoming spam.
Alternative number
Alternative number is a paid add-on from Surfshark that provides you with a virtual phone number for online accounts. It’s meant to help users avoid exposing their personal phone numbers to potential scams, spam, and data leaks.
Proton VPN doesn’t offer a comparable feature.
Disclaimer: Please note that the alternative number add-on is a paid service and is not covered by the 30-day money-back guarantee.
Antivirus
Surfshark includes a lightweight Antivirus software in its cybersecurity suite. It provides real-time malware defense, scheduled or on-demand system scans, and protection for up to five devices. This tool is bundled directly within the Surfshark One subscription tier.
Conversely, Proton does not offer a traditional device-scanning antivirus tool.
Alert
Surfshark Alert is a real-time data leak detection tool that continuously scans the web and notifies you if your email addresses, passwords, or credit card details appear in public data leaks.
Proton offers a comparable feature, Pass Monitor, on its paid plans. This tool monitors the dark web and alerts you if your emails tied to Proton Mail or Proton Pass alias appear in leaks.
Identity theft coverage
Surfshark provides specialized identity theft coverage within supported regions, available with the Surfshark One+ plan. This feature includes dedicated identity recovery assistance and up to $1 million coverage to help reimburse legal fees, document replacement costs, and lost wages resulting from identity fraud.
Proton does not feature any form of identity theft insurance, financial fraud remediation, or live recovery agent assistance within its product lineup.
Web content blocker
Surfshark’s web content blocker provides flexible, category-based filtering directly at the device level. This allows users or families to easily restrict access to entire blocks of websites across categories such as phishing, malware, gambling, or adult content.
Proton VPN handles web filtering through its DNS-based NetShield ad blocking tool, but its content filtering is less granular. It includes a basic switch to block adult content alongside ads, trackers, and malware, but it lacks Surfshark’s broader array of customizable, multi-category website filters.
Incogni
Incogni is a personal data removal service that lets users request data brokers and other websites to delete their sensitive info from the internet. Incogni is great for privacy-focused users who want to keep their personal data off the internet.
Incogni is included in Surfshark’s highest-tier bundle. Proton VPN doesn’t offer a similar data removal service.
Proton Pass
Proton Pass is an encrypted password manager that also supports 2FA (Two-factor Authentication) codes. It syncs across multiple devices and gives users the option to leave personal notes.
Proton Pass is available on Proton’s premium tier. Surfshark doesn’t have a similar password manager.
Proton Mail
Also available in Proton’s most expensive bundle, Proton Mail is a secure email service that allows users to send and receive fully private messages. Users can manage up to 15 different email addresses and link up to three custom email domains, backed by a shared 500 GB of secure storage.
While Surfshark does not provide an independent email hosting platform or dedicated inbox infrastructure, it approaches email privacy through its Alternative ID tool. It generates an alternative email address, which forwards messages to your existing personal inbox rather than hosting an entirely separate mail server.
Proton Calendar
Proton Calendar is another tool that’s exclusive to Proton’s top-tier plan. It provides users with a private calendar that can be customized to fit their needs. You can create up to 25 different calendars, all with end-to-end encryption.
Surfshark doesn’t have a private calendar in its bundles.
Proton Drive
Proton Drive is another service Proton users can enjoy on its top-tier plan. It gives users access to up to 500 GB of secure storage. Your data can be synced across devices, and shared files can be encrypted.
Surfshark doesn’t provide comparable storage.
Summing up
Surfshark and Proton VPN both offer several unique features that the other can’t match.
Surfshark is great for privacy-conscious users because of its Alternative ID, GPS override, regional identity theft coverage, and automated data removal via Incogni.
That said, Proton can also help users enhance their privacy with its premium offerings, including Proton Pass, Proton Mail, Proton Calendar, and Proton Drive.
Reddit reviews: Surfshark vs. Proton VPN
When choosing between Surfshark and Proton VPN, you can turn to this VPN comparison table discussion for user insights. This community-driven effort helps make choosing and using a VPN simpler.
You can view the comparison table directly. According to it, Reddit users rank Surfshark among the top two VPNs, and Proton VPN is fourth.
While it’s always a good idea to check out VPN providers on your own, here’s a selection of comments from various Reddit discussions on Surfshark and Proton VPN:
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 user experiences with Surfshark and Proton VPN vary based on individual needs. Both have received praise for their low prices, fast speeds, and reliable performance.
Potential users should consider the features that align with their specific preferences when choosing a VPN service.
Surfshark and Proton VPN: two trustworthy providers
Both Proton VPN and Surfshark are reliable VPN services that offer strong security, vast server networks, and lightning-fast speeds.
Surfshark is highly advantageous for users looking for automated, infrastructure-level privacy and a versatile feature set: entirely RAM-only server network, robust EU GDPR privacy laws, unlimited simultaneous device connections, patented Everlink connection stability, and Alternative ID persona masking, among many others.
On the other hand, Proton’s free plan, extensive server count, and privacy ecosystem make it an attractive choice as well.
Surfshark reviews and comparisons
Check out our other in-depth guides to see how Surfshark compares to more VPN providers:
- Comparing all top VPN services;
- Surfshark vs. NordVPN;
- Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN;
- Surfshark vs. IPVanish;
- Surfshark vs. CyberGhost.
FAQ
Is Surfshark better than Proton VPN?
Both Surfshark and Proton VPN are reputable VPN services, but which is better depends on your needs.
Surfshark ensures hardware-level privacy by using an entirely RAM-only server network that wipes all data upon reboot, alongside advanced features such as default post-quantum encryption on WireGuard and automated data broker removal. It also includes unlimited simultaneous device connections and highly competitive long-term pricing.
If an automated, comprehensive, and flexible privacy toolkit is your priority, Surfshark might be the stronger choice.
Which VPN is faster: Surfshark or Proton VPN?
Surfshark is the faster VPN, leading the market in recent independent testing with peak WireGuard speeds of 1,615 Mbps and 978 Mbps on OpenVPN. While Proton VPN is closely competitive on WireGuard at 1,521 Mbps, its OpenVPN performance drops significantly to 240 Mbps.
Real-world speeds can still differentiate based on your physical distance to the server, network overhead, and your ISP.
Can I use Surfshark or Proton VPN on multiple devices?
Yes, both Surfshark and Proton VPN support use on multiple devices.
Surfshark allows for unlimited simultaneous device connections under a single subscription, making it ideal for families or users with many devices.
Proton VPN’s free plan supports one device at a time, while paid plans offer up to 10 simultaneous connections.
Both VPNs have apps available for major operating systems.
