VPN Battle Royale: Nord vs. Surfshark – Who Reigns Supreme? Discover the Ultimate Winner in the Clash of Titans!
Choosing the right virtual private network (VPN) service can be a daunting task for users seeking to protect their online privacy and enhance their digital security.
With numerous VPN providers available in the market, it becomes crucial to identify the best option that aligns with one’s specific needs. In this regard, the comparison between NordVPN and Surfshark, two well-known VPN services, has garnered significant attention and stirred up a debate among users.
Internet users are increasingly concerned about safeguarding their personal data, avoiding surveillance, and maintaining anonymity while browsing the web.
VPNs have emerged as a popular solution, encrypting users’ internet traffic and routing it through secure servers, thereby shielding their online activities from prying eyes.
However, the abundance of VPN options, each with its own set of features and benefits, can leave individuals perplexed and uncertain about which service to choose.
To address this predicament, this article will delve into a comparative analysis between NordVPN and Surfshark, shedding light on their respective strengths and weaknesses.
By evaluating critical aspects such as security, speed, server network, user-friendliness, and pricing, we aim to provide users with a comprehensive understanding of these two VPN services.
Ultimately, this comparison will enable individuals to make an informed decision and select the VPN that best suits their requirements, granting them the peace of mind and online protection they seek in an ever-connected digital world.
Table of Contents
NordVPN vs Surfshark: overview
Both NordVPN and Surfshark provide excellent services, and their distinctions are minimal. Surfshark, priced at $2.30/month, is generally more affordable. On the other hand, NordVPN offers a greater number of servers and protocol choices.
Furthermore, NordVPN restricts connections to 6 devices simultaneously, whereas Surfshark has no such limitations.
| NordVPN | Surfshark | |
| ⭐ Rating: | 4.9★★★★★ | 4.7★★★★★ |
| 🥇 Overall rank: | #1 out of #36 | #2 out of #36 |
| 🖥️ Servers: | 5500+ servers in 94 countries | 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
| 📖 No logs policy: | No logs | No logs |
| 💵 Pricing: | From $3.29/month | From $2.30/month |
| 🔥 Coupons: | NordVPN coupon 59% OFF | Surfshark VPN coupon 82% OFF |
| 🔒 VPN protocols: | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard (NordLynx) | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| 🍿 Streaming services: | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more |
| 🖥️ Platforms: | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox |
| 📥 Simultaneous connections: | 6 | Unlimited |
| 💁🏻 Support: | Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat | Knowledge base, 24/7 live chat, email support |
Why should you get NordVPN?
After conducting thorough research and exploring the market, it is evident that NordVPN has captured widespread attention for valid reasons.
NordVPN stands out as one of the most reliable providers in terms of security. Firstly, its jurisdiction in Panama, known for its privacy-friendly stance, adds an extra layer of assurance.
Furthermore, NordVPN’s commitment to privacy is evident through its comprehensive and transparent external independent privacy audit, accessible to the public.
In addition, NordVPN delivers exceptional performance in terms of download speeds. While both options are commendable, NordVPN edges slightly ahead. To make a well-informed decision, refer to the detailed review below, which will provide further insights.
Why should you get Surfshark?
If you’re looking to save money without compromising on security or speed, Surfshark is an excellent choice. Additionally, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, enabling you to use it on multiple devices simultaneously.
Another noteworthy aspect of Surfshark is its reliable antivirus protection and breach alerts, which provide an added layer of security. You can access these features through Surfshark One, a comprehensive package that includes all the necessary functionalities.
Netflix and streaming performance
Both NordVPN and Surfshark excel at unblocking geo-restricted streaming sites, including the renowned streaming giant Netflix. Both providers are widely recognized as top VPN choices for streaming purposes.
As anticipated, neither NordVPN nor Surfshark encountered any difficulties in bypassing restrictions imposed by foreign Netflix libraries and other platforms known for their stringent geo-blocks.
| Platform | NordVPN | Surfshark |
| Netflix | ✅ | ✅ |
| Amazon Prime Video | ✅ | ✅ |
| BBC iPlayer | ✅ | ✅ |
| HBO Max | ✅ | ✅ |
| Hulu | ✅ | ✅ |
| Disney+ | ✅ | ✅ |
| YouTube | ✅ | ✅ |
| Apple TV | ✅ | ✅ |
Moreover, both NordVPN and Surfshark offer split tunneling capabilities, allowing you to configure Netflix to function exclusively through the VPN.
Additionally, you can utilize the SmartDNS feature provided by both VPNs to stream content from foreign libraries on devices that do not support VPN applications, such as smart TVs.
Furthermore, these VPNs extend their compatibility beyond Netflix. Both Surfshark and NordVPN seamlessly work with numerous other popular streaming platforms, including BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, and many more.
Importantly, neither provider triggers any errors that would compromise the streaming experience.
Plans and pricing
When it comes to VPN pricing, the structures are typically straightforward and easy to understand. Generally, the longer your subscription period, the more significant your savings. This principle holds true for both providers being compared here.
| Plan | NordVPN | Surfshark |
| Monthly | $12.99/month | $12.95/month |
| 1 Year | $4.59/month | $3.99/month |
| 2 Years | $3.29/month | $2.30/month |
| Check discounts | Check discounts |
The shortest option for a monthly subscription is also the most expensive. NordVPN is priced at $12.99 per month, while Surfshark is slightly higher at $12.95. Neither of these monthly options is budget-friendly, so it’s worth considering the longer-term plans.
The best savings can be found with the longest two-year plan. NordVPN costs $3.29 per month, while Surfshark offers an even better deal at $2.30 per month.
NordVPN provides various payment options, including credit cards, PayPal (in specific regions), AmazonPay, ACH Transfer, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and cryptocurrencies. Surfshark accepts credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, Apple Pay, and cryptocurrencies as well.
Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. This allows you to try out the services before fully committing. Surfshark also provides a 7-day free trial specifically for mobile devices, along with unlimited simultaneous connections.
If the pricing seems high, there may be a discount available for you. Take a look at our pages for NordVPN coupons and Surfshark coupons.
Surfshark vs NordVPN: which is more secure?
Both NordVPN and Surfshark prioritize security and have implemented a comprehensive range of necessary measures, including:
| NordVPN | Surfshark | |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 | AES-256-GCM and Chacha20 Poly1305 |
| Hash | SHA-512 | SHA-512 |
| RAM servers | Yes | Yes |
| A member of the 5-Eyes Alliance? | No | Yes |
| No-logs policy | Audited | Audited |
| Kill switch | Yes | Yes |
| Ad blocker | Yes | Yes |
| DNS leak protection | Yes | Yes |
| Proprietary protocols | Yes | No |
Each of these VPN services utilizes AES-256-GCM encryption to safeguard your data, operates exclusively on RAM-based servers, and offers additional security measures such as a reliable kill switch and DNS leak protection.
However, one notable aspect of Surfshark VPN is its location in the Netherlands, which is part of the 9-Eyes Intelligence Alliance. This raises concerns regarding data privacy.
In terms of public security audits, both services have made efforts to demonstrate their reliability. NordVPN has undergone two audits of its no-logs policy conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC). Furthermore, in 2019, VerSprite conducted a security audit on NordVPN’s applications.
On the other hand, Surfshark has undergone three audits. Cure53 conducted the first two tests, evaluating Surfshark’s browser extensions, server infrastructure, and overall security of the tool. The most recent audit, performed in 2023 by Deloitte, focused on verifying Surfshark’s no-logs policy.
Infrastructure
NordVPN and Surfshark have both made significant upgrades to the majority of their servers, transitioning to RAM-only systems. This crucial enhancement ensures that user logs are not stored on any hard drives.
Moreover, this approach significantly reduces the risk of server breaches. Servers that utilize hard drives may potentially be susceptible to the installation of backdoors for monitoring purposes.
Conversely, RAM-only servers automatically wipe themselves clean during each restart, minimizing the likelihood of unauthorized access.
By adopting this innovative design, these VPN services have effectively bolstered the security of their servers, making them considerably more challenging to crack compared to traditional server configurations.
Privacy
Surfshark, headquartered in the Netherlands, unfortunately, falls under the jurisdiction of the 9-Eyes intelligence alliance. This alliance entails the sharing of relevant information among member countries when necessary.
Consequently, there may be concerns about Surfshark’s logging policy. However, it is important to note that the VPN provider is not obligated to log any user-identifying information and, therefore, does not do so.
Additionally, the utilization of RAM-only servers ensures that there is no data available to share. A recent privacy policy audit further confirms this.
NordVPN follows a very similar approach, but it is based in Panama. Panama is another location that prioritizes privacy, as it operates outside the scope of surveillance alliances. Therefore, regardless of which service you choose, your data is not at risk from intrusive legislation.
Logging
Like many VPN service providers, both Surfshark and NordVPN assure users that their data will not be logged, adding credibility to their RAM-only server claims. However, when it comes to reliability, NordVPN takes the lead.
Both NordVPN and Surfshark underwent two separate audits to assess their adherence to their privacy policies. NordVPN’s audits were conducted by the independent agency PxC (PricewaterhouseCoopers), and in both instances, the audits confirmed NordVPN’s commitment to its promises.
Notably, NordVPN even maintains a bug bounty program on its HackerOne page.
Surfshark, on the other hand, underwent audits by Cure53 penetration testers on two occasions. These audits evaluated the browser extensions, server infrastructure, and overall security of Surfshark’s tool. Remarkably, Surfshark demonstrated exceptional security performance during both audits.
In conclusion, while both providers offer robust privacy features, NordVPN holds a slight advantage due to its bug bounty program.
Speed comparison: which is faster, NordVPN or Surfshark?
Here’s a speed comparison of every protocol across 5 different locations (US, UK, France, Singapore, and Australia)
| Download retention | NordVPN | Surfshark |
| US | 33% (315 Mbit/s) | 31% (304 Mbit/s) |
| UK | 75% (725 Mbit/s) | 71% (681 Mbit/s) |
| France | 96% (923 Mbit/s) | 85% (814 Mbit/s) |
| Singapore | 100% (1,000 Mbit/s) | 93% (887 Mbit/s) |
| Australia | 71% (684 Mbit/s) | 62% (596 Mbit/s) |
| Upload retention | NordVPN | Surfshark |
| US | 30% (293 Mbit/s) | 30% (285 Mbit/s) |
| UK | 67% (644 Mbit/s) | 67% (639 Mbit/s) |
| France | 89% (857 Mbit/s) | 81% (777 Mbit/s) |
| Singapore | 73% (698 Mbit/s) | 70% (674 Mbit/s) |
| Australia | 59% (572 Mbit/s) | 54% (523 Mbit/s) |
In all the findings, it is evident that NordVPN holds a slight advantage over Surfshark. Both companies offer exceptionally fast speeds and are among the top VPN options currently available. Nevertheless, NordVPN exhibits a slightly higher level of speed.
When examining the preferred IKEv2 protocol among mobile users, the outcomes were quite similar. NordVPN experienced an average decrease in download speed by 28%, whereas Surfshark’s was 27%.
Hence, in terms of download speeds, both providers are nearly identical. However, NordVPN demonstrates slightly better efficiency in terms of upload speeds.
Features overview
| Features | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
| Split tunneling | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Smart DNS | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Specialty servers | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Web filters | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
When it comes to features, both NordVPN and Surfshark offer a plethora of additional benefits with their subscriptions.
While NordVPN boasts a greater selection of specialty server options, Surfshark impresses with a wider range of inclusive security features in its arsenal.
SmartDNS
For most of your favorite media streaming devices, native VPN support is not always available. To address this, NordVPN and Surfshark have devised methods to provide VPN-like functionalities without requiring a separate app.
NordVPN offers SmartPlay, which automatically activates when you’re using a VPN to unblock streaming websites.
While you can also configure it as a standard SmartDNS feature to replace your device’s DNS settings, it also activates through the app whenever you access geo-restricted media websites. Consequently, it offers more than just SmartDNS capabilities.
Surfshark’s take on this concept is simply referred to as SmartDNS. It functions similarly to NordVPN’s version, and even the rate of success is comparable.
Specialty servers
NordVPN and Surfshark both offer specialized servers that provide additional advantages to your connection and cater to specific use cases. For instance, Surfshark features multi-hop and static IP servers as part of its offerings.
Multi-hop: By utilizing these servers, your connections go through a chain of two VPN servers instead of just one. As a result, any trace of your real dedicated IP address is completely eradicated.
P2P: While you can torrent on any of their servers, opting for the dedicated P2P option ensures the best speeds for your activities.
Static IP: Unlike other static IP options, Surfshark’s static IP servers are accessible to anyone. Although the IP address is not exclusively yours, you will be assigned the same IP address every time you connect to them.
Although these offerings are undoubtedly impressive, NordVPN offers similar versatility. They match Surfshark’s Multi-hop feature with their own Double VPN servers. The same applies to P2P servers, but NordVPN offers a greater variety of server types overall.
Onion over VPN: This feature integrates your VPN connection with the Tor network, providing an extra layer of anonymity and security.
Obfuscated servers: These specialized servers conceal your VPN traffic, making it appear as non-VPN traffic. It’s worth noting that Surfshark also offers a dedicated toggle in the settings for this purpose.
Lastly, NordVPN offers dedicated IPs/IP addresses exclusively to users who choose to pay an additional fee. With this option, you are the sole individual with access to that specific IP address.
Split tunneling
Split tunneling stands as one of the most valuable features a VPN service can offer, granting you a significantly more precise control over the routing of your Internet traffic.
NordVPN and Surfshark share remarkably similar implementations in this regard. Both providers allow you to selectively route specific applications through the VPN or exclude them from the VPN connection.
This eliminates the necessity of disconnecting from the VPN when you require a direct connection.
Unfortunately, both providers have solely incorporated this feature for Windows and Android. Consequently, if you utilize a Mac and iPhone, you will not have access to this functionality.
Web filters
Regardless of the contestant you choose, you will be provided with web filters to safeguard your browsing experience. Surfshark has named their version of this feature CleanWeb, which effectively halts intrusive trackers and ads.
By blocking established IPs associated with adware hosts, malware, or trackers, CleanWeb ensures a seamless browsing experience. This functionality is compatible with popular browser extensions such as Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
NordVPN has introduced their own rendition of this concept called Threat Protection. By implementing Threat Protection, your browsing activities are fortified with enhanced safety measures.
This includes the blocking of ads and trackers, the detection of malware, and the prevention of access to malicious websites.
Server locations
Regarding the server infrastructure of the VPNs, both providers have established a substantial number of servers across diverse locations.
This allows users to effortlessly connect to nearly any location worldwide, granting them extensive global coverage.
| NordVPN | Surfshark | |
| Servers | 5500+ | 3200+ |
| Countries (total) | 60 | 100 |
| Virtual locations | No | Yes |
| Specialty servers | Yes | Yes |
Both providers offer distinct advantages. NordVPN boasts a vast network of over 5,500 servers spread across 60 countries, whereas Surfshark provides access to 3200+ servers located in 100 countries.
Consequently, NordVPN offers a larger number of servers, while Surfshark https://get.surfshark.net/aff_c?offer_id=926&aff_id=17823offers a slightly broader geographical coverage.
Furthermore, Surfshark employs virtual locations, a feature that is absent in NordVPN’s service. Both providers, however, have specialty servers available to their users.
It is worth noting that NordVPN’s server count in Europe and the US alone matches the entirety of Surfshark’s network. As a result, the larger fleet of servers offered by NordVPN is expected to deliver more consistent performance across various user locations.
China and countries with restricted Internet access
In China, the use of VPNs is tightly regulated and considered illegal, making it challenging to find VPNs that can successfully operate there. Nevertheless, both NordVPN and Surfshark have developed technologies to bypass the formidable obstacle of the Great Firewall.
Both VPN providers offer obfuscated servers, also known as Stealth Mode, specifically designed to evade firewalls and Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) methods employed by restrictive governments.
These specialized servers are highly likely to function in China, as well as in other countries with similar restrictions.
However, it is important to note that utilizing NordVPN or Surfshark in China, as well as in other restricted regions, will likely require special configurations to ensure successful usage.
Torrenting
Both competing VPNs offer dedicated P2P servers that are specifically optimized for faster download speeds.
Surfshark provides the ability to torrent on all of their servers, although the speeds may be slightly lower compared to NordVPN. On the other hand, NordVPN offers a bit more control by allowing users to choose any server for their P2P activities.
Additionally, when P2P traffic is detected, NordVPN automatically reconnects users to a dedicated P2P server, ensuring safer file sharing and improved speed performance.
Furthermore, NordVPN includes a SOCKS5 proxy, which proves beneficial for P2P connections as it enhances download speeds.
Platforms, interface, and ease of use
Both NordVPN and Surfshark shine in terms of usability and user-friendliness. They offer a wide range of user-friendly applications that are incredibly intuitive to navigate and operate.
| NordVPN | Surfshark | |
| Supported OS | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox |
| Other software and devices | Kodi, Android TVs, Fire devices | Android TV, Fire devices, routers |
| Browser extensions | Chrome, Firefox | Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge |
| Simultaneous connections | 6 | Unlimited |
| Usability level | Easy to set up | Easy to set up |
Both NordVPN and Surfshark provide extensive support for various operating systems. In addition to that, they offer browser extensions and compatibility with other software, including smart TVs.
The user-friendly applications are thoughtfully designed and remarkably intuitive. Consequently, setting up these VPNs is a seamless process regardless of the device you use.
Overall, both providers offer broad device support and a convenient user interface, ensuring that your usage cases are not restricted in any way.
Desktop apps
In the Linux realm, the visual interface option is not as visually appealing compared to other platforms. However, this limitation only applies to NordVPN. With NordVPN, Linux users need to utilize the terminal and manually input their desired servers.
On the other hand, Surfshark has introduced a game-changing development for Linux users by releasing a dedicated app that features a visually pleasing interface and an extensive range of features.
Windows users of Surfshark are treated exceptionally well. They not only enjoy an aesthetically pleasing user interface but also gain access to a wide array of features that are not available on macOS, such as Split Tunneling/Whitelister functionality.
It is important to highlight that Surfshark offers two versions of its macOS application – one available on the Apple Store and another downloadable from the website. The Apple Store version encompasses all tunneling protocols, whereas the website version only includes IKEv2.
In contrast, both NordVPN’s Windows and iOS versions share similarities, featuring a map interface that facilitates easy navigation and usage.
Similar to Surfshark, NordVPN offers two versions of its macOS app—the website version and the App Store version. The website version provides more recent updates, but it only supports the OpenVPN tunneling protocol.
Mobile apps
There is no dispute about the superiority of Android VPN apps compared to their iOS counterparts in this case. Both NordVPN and Surfshark have excellent versions for Android, while iOS lags slightly behind.
Surfshark’s Android version sets itself apart with its unique implementation of Bypasser and GPS spoofing features, which are yet to be seen in any other competing VPN. On the other hand, the iOS version offers a kill switch along with CleanWeb and auto-connect as additional features.
When it comes to NordVPN’s Android app, it stands out for its abundant features and user-friendly interface. Users have the option to select servers either through a map interface or a list.
Additionally, the app includes essential functionalities such as a kill switch, split tunneling, pausing, and an auto-connect feature.
The iOS app of NordVPN boasts a range of impressive features including a convenient built-in kill switch, a favorites tab for easy access, and even dark web monitoring to enhance security.
Users have the flexibility to choose their preferred server either through a visually appealing map interface or by selecting from a list of countries.
Customer support
Both providers excel in offering outstanding customer support services, providing users with various avenues to seek technical assistance while ensuring prompt and efficient responses.
| NordVPN | Surfshark | |
| 24/7 live chat | ✅ | ✅ |
| ✅ | ✅ | |
| Phone line | ❌ | ❌ |
| Guides or articles | ✅ | ✅ |
| FAQs | ✅ | ✅ |
If you encounter any difficulties, you will have numerous options for customer support regardless of the provider you choose. Both providers have updated customer support web pages that include guides and FAQs for your convenience.
While neither provider offers phone service, if you prefer a more direct approach or need to speak to a human representative, both NordVPN and Surfshark offer a 24/7 live chat feature. This means you can receive assistance at any time, even during late hours.
Even if you encounter a more complex issue, your problem will be converted into a ticket, and you can expect a solution via email in a short period of time. Therefore, regardless of which service you decide to choose, the customer support will be equally reliable.
Video review: NordVPN vs Surfshark
NordVPN vs Surfshark 2023 | Which VPN is better for YOU?
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, both NordVPN and Surfshark offer strong security features and reliable performance.
NordVPN excels in its vast server network and advanced security protocols, while Surfshark stands out for its affordability and unlimited simultaneous connections.
Choosing between the two depends on individual preferences and priorities.
FAQs
Q1. What is the difference between NordVPN and Surfshark?
NordVPN and Surfshark are both popular VPN services, but there are some key differences between them. NordVPN has a larger server network with over 5,500 servers in more than 60 countries, while Surfshark has around 3,200 servers in over 65 countries.
NordVPN also offers specialty servers for specific purposes like streaming and P2P sharing. Surfshark, on the other hand, has a unique feature called “MultiHop” that allows you to connect to multiple VPN servers for enhanced privacy.
Q2. Which VPN service is more affordable, NordVPN or Surfshark?
In terms of pricing, Surfshark is generally considered more affordable than NordVPN. Surfshark offers competitive pricing with various subscription options, including longer-term plans that bring the monthly cost down. NordVPN, while slightly more expensive, often offers discounts and promotions that can make it more affordable. Both providers also offer a money-back guarantee, allowing you to try their services risk-free.
Q3. Are there any limitations on the number of simultaneous connections for NordVPN and Surfshark?
Both NordVPN and Surfshark allow you to connect multiple devices simultaneously. NordVPN allows up to six simultaneous connections per account, which means you can protect multiple devices with a single subscription.
Surfshark, on the other hand, offers unlimited simultaneous connections, allowing you to secure as many devices as you want without any limitations.
Q5. Do NordVPN and Surfshark support streaming services and torrenting?
Yes, both NordVPN and Surfshark support streaming services and torrenting. NordVPN has a dedicated feature called “SmartPlay” that helps you access geo-restricted streaming content by automatically connecting you to the appropriate server.
Surfshark also provides reliable access to streaming platforms and offers specialized servers optimized for streaming and torrenting. Both services have a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private.
Q5. Which VPN service has better customer support, NordVPN or Surfshark?
NordVPN and Surfshark both have robust customer support systems. NordVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, email support, and an extensive knowledge base with helpful guides and tutorials. Surfshark also provides 24/7 live chat support, along with a comprehensive help center.
Both services strive to assist customers promptly and effectively, ensuring any issues or queries are addressed in a timely manner.
