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Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN: which should you choose?

For non-technical users, comparing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can feel impossible. Don’t worry. In this Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN comparison review, we’ll put everything you need to know into simple terms so you can feel confident choosing the best one.

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Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN: at a glance

Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer similar encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection and use RAM-based servers. However, Surfshark is at least three times cheaper and offers unlimited simultaneous connections, while ExpressVPN allows only eight. Express VPN has its own Lightway protocol, but Surfshark offers a Double VPN feature.

Note: The tests for the comparisons were carried out on May 6, 2024. Keep in mind that speed test results may vary on any given day.

	Surfshark	ExpressVPN
Devices	Unlimited	8
Server countries	100	105
Protocols	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard	OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, Lightway
Cookie pop-up blocker
Ad blocker
Independent audits
10 Gbps servers	*	*
24/7 support
Price	$2.79	$8.32
Money-back guarantee	30 days	30 days

*Available in specific locations only

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Server count & locations

Your connection speed is directly affected by server crowdedness and your distance from the VPN server. Therefore, you should look for a VPN with many servers worldwide, ensuring that you always have an uncrowded server to connect to nearby.

Here’s how Surfshark and ExpressVPN compare in terms of server count and locations:

Surfshark: 3200+ servers in 100 countries
ExpressVPN: undisclosed amount of servers in 105 countries

And here are some of the countries they cover and how their VPN server locations are distributed:

Region	Surfshark	ExpressVPN
The Americas	18 (United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, etc.)	24 (United States, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Brazil, Honduras, etc.)
Europe	46 (United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, etc.)	47 (United Kingdom, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, etc.)
Asia Pacific	27 (Australia, India, South Korea, New Zealand, Philippines, etc.)	26 (Japan, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, etc.)
Middle East & Africa	9 (South Africa, Egypt, Israel, United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, etc.)	8 (Egypt, Ghana, Israel, Kenya, etc.)

Key takeaway:

ExpressVPN has servers in five more countries but doesn’t disclose a concrete server number — it’s a stalemate.

Surfshark has 3200+ servers worldwide

All servers

Australia AUS

Brazil BRA

Canada CAN

Chile CHL

France FRA

Germany DEU

Hong Kong HKG

India IND

Israel ISR

Japan JPN

New Zealand NZL

Norway NOR

Netherlands NLD

Singapore SGP

South Korea KOR

Spain ESP

Sweden SWE

Switzerland CHE

Turkey TUR

United Kingdom GBR

United States USA

All servers

Connection speeds

We ran speed tests to find out which provider is faster in the battle of Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN.

To develop a baseline, we ran a test without a VPN connection, which resulted in download and upload speeds of 300 Mbps.

We then tested the speed using the fastest protocol each provider has available.

Fastest protocol	Surfshark (WireGuard)	ExpressVPN (Lightway)
Download speed average	263 Mbps	198.6 Mbps
Upload speed average	170 Mbps	165.6 Mbps

Key takeaway:

We found that Surfshark offered consistently faster speeds, while ExpressVPN seemed to struggle in some locations.

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Streaming performance

If you want to watch your favorite streaming services, you will need a certain download speed. Netflix gives users information about the download speed needed to watch without buffering, which can be taken as a rough estimate for other streaming services as well.

3 Mbps to watch High Definition (HD) video (720p);
5 Mbps to watch Full High Definition (FHD) video (1080p);
15 Mbps to watch Ultra High Definition (UHD) video (4K).

Of course, Netflix isn’t the only streaming platform out there. And while some VPNs don’t do well when it comes to streaming, we found that both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are excellent choices for watching content online.

	Surfshark	ExpressVPN
Netflix
BBC iPlayer
HBO Max
Amazon Prime Video
Disney Plus
Hulu
YouTube

Key takeaway:

Surfshark and ExpressVPN are both great for streaming. Just make sure to test your connection speed and check if it’s fast enough.

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.

VPN protocols

As you would expect from premium VPN providers, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN have some of the best VPN protocols out there. Surfshark is the only one to support WireGuard, which is the fastest protocol around, but ExpressVPN’s own proprietary protocol Lightway is pretty speedy as well.

Surfshark also does not offer the LT2P/IPSEC option anymore, but there’s a good reason for it — it’s simply not as safe as the others on this list.

Protocol	Surfshark	ExpressVPN
OpenVPN
IKEv2
L2TP/IPSec		(Windows and macOS)
WireGuard
Lightway

Key takeaway:

Surfshark and ExpressVPN both offer top-quality protocols for users. Surfshark offers the fastest VPN protocol currently available. But ExpressVPN has Lightway, their own protocol, which performs quite well.

Privacy

A strict no-logs policy and headquarters in a country with no data retention laws are the two main things you should look at to make sure that your VPN provider is prepared to protect your privacy.

No-logs policy

A VPN service following a no-logs policy won’t track your activity online, keep information about it, or sell it to third parties. It only keeps a minimal amount of information that is necessary for providing the service itself.

You must provide your payment information to complete a transaction with any service. You may also need to create an account, so a username or an email address will be required. A no-logs policy promises that no other information is collected and used.

Both providers follow this policy.

Headquarters locations

For ExpressVPN, you’ll find the headquarters in the British Virgin Islands, while Surfshark is based in the Netherlands. Both locations are ideal for a VPN provider since they don’t have any data retention laws. This allows the providers to protect your privacy and stick to their no-logs policies.

Key takeaway:

Both services do an excellent job of protecting your privacy by not tracking user online activity and having their headquarters in countries with no data retention laws.

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Audits

In the past, VPN hosts could rely on their reputation alone to establish trustworthiness. But these days, there’s much more scrutiny involved.

Independent security audits are essential for backing up any claims made by a VPN provider. Audits can be a quick overview or an in-depth analysis of the provider. Bonus points if the company is audited by KPMG, Deloitte, Cure53, or PricewaterhouseCoopers, as these are the biggest names in the industry.

Surfshark audits

In 2018, Cure53 audited Surfshark’s browser extensions. They concluded the extensions “are not exposed to any issues, neither in the privacy nor in the more general security realms.”

The 2018 audit did reveal two “low severity” vulnerabilities. These were quickly fixed, highlighting the transparency and commitment of the company.

In 2021, Cure53 conducted an independent audit of Surfshark VPN’s infrastructure. Again, no serious issues were unveiled, and any raised concerns were swiftly rectified.

The 2023 Deloitte audit verified Surfshark’s no-logs statement.

In December, 2023, Surfshark’s Android app passed the MASA audit. It proves the app is safe to use and handles user data with the globally accepted MASA requirements.

ExpressVPN audits

ExpressVPN has also been thoroughly audited throughout the years, with some structures undergoing multiple audits.

Its privacy policy was audited by PwC in 2019, which was backed up by a KPMG audit of its no-logs policy in 2022.

Lightway, ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, has also been audited twice. Once in 2021 and a second time in 2022, both times by Cure53.

There have also been audits of ExpressVPN browser extensions, the build verification process, and their apps.

Needless to say, ExpressVPN takes auditing very seriously, so if it claims something, it likely has been or will be, backed up by an independent audit.

Key takeaway:

Surfshark and ExpressVPN have engaged independent security auditors to ensure their top-quality services. Both have audited the key aspects of a VPN — the no-logs policy and server infrastructure.

Customer support

Customer support is a crucial vertebra in the backbone of every service provider. Thankfully, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN have great customer support teams ready to assist you at all times. Surfshark does have a bigger knowledge base, though, while ExpressVPN had a shorter email turnaround time in our test.

Customer service	Surfshark	ExpressVPN
Live chat
Ticket support
Email Support
Searchable knowledge base
Video guides	YouTube	YouTube

Key takeaway:

Both VPN providers offer excellent support teams and thorough knowledge bases.

Security and encryption

	Surfshark	ExpressVPN
VPN protocols	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard	OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec, Lightway
OpenVPN data encryption	AES-256	AES-256
OpenVPN control channel encryption	RSA-2048	RSA-4096
Cloaking technology	NoBorders obfuscation	Cipher block chaining
App security	Kill Switch (all platforms)	Kill switch (desktop and routers)
DNS status	Private DNS	Private DNS

Security features

Encryption

You’ll notice that many of the security features for these providers are similar. They offer roughly the same protocols, and both use AES-256 encryption, which is basically impossible to crack!

Don’t get confused by ExpressVPN using a longer RSA key, as both RSA-2048 keys are just as secure as RSA-4096.

Kill switch

The kill switch feature is an extra layer of protection offered by both providers. It disconnects you from the internet if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This means your user data is never vulnerable, and your privacy is always protected.

Stealth servers

ExpressVPN uses cipher block chaining to keep you safe. It’s a trusted method that’s almost impossible to crack.

Surfshark uses obfuscation and its NoBorders feature to conceal your internet activity completely. They’re great for hiding the fact that you’re using a VPN and overcoming oppressive internet censorship.

Key takeaway:

When it comes to security and encryption, you’re in safe hands regardless of whether you choose Surfshark or ExpressVPN. Both VPN providers have great encryption and security features.

Extra features: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark comparison

Although the main function of a VPN is to protect user data and identities, premium VPN providers also include extra features to improve your online life. Here’s what Surfshark and ExpressVPN have to offer:

Feature	Surfshark	ExpressVPN
Ad blocker
Cookie pop-up blocker
Split tunneling
Browser extensions
Smart DNS
Double VPN
GPS spoofing		Browser extension only
Threat manager		Only for iOS, macOS, and Linux
Password manager
Email masking	Alternative ID

What do the extra features do?

CleanWeb

Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature is an ad blocker. It prevents malicious ads, pop-ups, trackers, or dangerous websites from showing up on your screen.

It’s worth highlighting that CleanWeb is not an antivirus.

Split tunneling

Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer a split tunneling feature. Surfshark users will need to look for Bypasser on the mobile apps.

Smart DNS

Smart DNS is also available on both Surfshark and ExpressVPN. The feature allows you to bypass firewalls and censorship on devices that don’t usually support VPN connections. For example, your PlayStation or smart TV.

Double VPN

This feature adds an extra layer of security by routing traffic through two different VPN servers. ExpressVPN doesn’t offer a Double VPN, so Surfshark takes the gold here with Dynamic MultiHop.

GPS spoofing

You can trick GPS-enabled apps into thinking you’re elsewhere. This works for apps like Tinder, Pokémon Go, and more.

Surfshark offers this option on the Android app, while ExpressVPN only has options for browser extensions.

Threat manager

This ExpressVPN feature prevents third-party tracking. It stops apps from communicating with third-party trackers or engaging in malicious behavior. Only available on iOS, macOS, and Linux.

Email masking

Alternative ID lets you minimize spam by creating a new online persona with a new name, birthdate, home address, and email. Use it when registering on unreliable websites.

Key takeaway:

While both Surfshark and ExpressVPN have some great features, Surfshark takes the cake with the likes of Double VPN, email masking feature, and a cookie pop-up blocker, which are not available with ExpressVPN.

The ultimate combination of premium security at an affordable price

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Price

We have one final, vital aspect to consider — price. Both providers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get started risk-free. They also offer cryptocurrency payment options if you want to make a more anonymous purchase.

Plan	Surfshark	ExpressVPN
1 month	$15.45/month	$12.95/month
6 months		$9.99/month
12 months	$2.79/month	$8.32/month
24 months	$1.99/month

Key takeaway:

Surfshark is a bit pricier when considering a short-term plan. But when we get to long-term plans, Surfshark is more affordable, with its cheapest plan being more than 3 times cheaper than ExpressVPN’s cheapest option.

VPN comparison on Reddit

Reddit has a dedicated VPN thread with a VPN comparison table where users review VPNs they tried. The table is often updated and should simplify choosing and using VPNs. It’s a community effort, and the people are invited to collaborate and report any mistakes or outdated information.

According to the table, Reddit users rank Surfshark among the top three, but feel free to check it out yourself.

Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN recap

Category	Notes
Server count & locations	It’s a stalemate since ExpressVPN doesn’t share how many servers it has, but covers five countries more than Surfshark.
Server speeds	Although this was a close call, Surfshark performed more consistently in our tests.
Streaming performance	Both providers work well with all major streaming platforms, making them great options for watching content online.
VPN protocols	Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer reliable protocols. Both have OpenVPN and IKEv2, while only Surfshark offers WireGuard and only ExpressVPN offers Lightway.
Audits	Both companies have had the top names in auditing test their infrastructures and no-logs policies. Proving their claims and showing they can be trusted.
Customer support	Both offer extensive searchable knowledge bases, live chat, and YouTube guides.
Security and encryption	The security levels offered by both services are identical, with industry-leading encryption and security features.
Extra features	Surfshark offers a more comprehensive selection of extra features, including some that aren’t available with ExpressVPN.
Price	If you decide to stick with either service for more than a month, Surfshark ends up being the cheaper option by far.

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Other Surfshark comparisons

Check out how we compare to other big brands in general. Have a hard time making your mind up? Take a look at our in-depth Surfshark review.

FAQ

Is Surfshark a good VPN?

Surfshark is an excellent VPN. It’s among the best VPN services to use AES-256-bit encryption and offers security and convenience features like Kill Switch and split tunneling. Having their headquarters outside of the Five Eyes alliance is a huge plus. But don’t just take our word for it. Download the Surfshark VPN app and try it yourself — risk-free!

Does Surfshark VPN slow down the internet?

Every VPN slows down the download and upload speeds because the data has to make a trip to the VPN servers to get encrypted and decrypted.

With that in mind, Surfshark offers split tunneling, a feature that lets you choose which part of the data stream you want to encrypt and save some internet speed without leaving you unprotected.

Can the police track a VPN?

Authorities can’t track encrypted VPN traffic. But with a court order, they can go to your ISP (Internet Service Provider) and request connection or access to the records. Better choose a VPN provider that uses obfuscated servers and doesn’t log user data. Care to guess who that might be? (*wink wink*)

Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN: which should you choose?

Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN: at a glance

Server count & locations

Surfshark has 3200+ servers worldwide

Connection speeds

Streaming performance

VPN protocols

Privacy

No-logs policy

Headquarters locations

Audits

Surfshark audits

ExpressVPN audits

Customer support

Security and encryption

Security features

Encryption

Kill switch

Stealth servers

Extra features: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark comparison

What do the extra features do?

CleanWeb

Split tunneling

Smart DNS

Double VPN

GPS spoofing

Threat manager

Email masking

Price

VPN comparison on Reddit

Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN recap

Other Surfshark comparisons

FAQ

Is Surfshark a good VPN?

Does Surfshark VPN slow down the internet?

Can the police track a VPN?

Necessary

Analytical

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