High-end VPN services Surfshark and NordVPN are offered by Nord Security, the industry-leading cybersecurity organization. Both employ increasing security measures in an effort to give users a private and safe online space. Importantly, out of all 42 VPN services that our specialists evaluated, these companies are among the top ones. Although NordVPN and Surfshark seem similarly strong, VPN consumers choose NordVPN because of its faster connections and distinctive features like Meshnet. Conversely, Surfshark is preferred due to its limitless simultaneous connections and lower price. So, how can you choose which VPN is best for you?
We wanted to make it clear why both Surfshark and NordVPN are dependable choices and how they each meet the security requirements of users by putting together this comparison of the two VPNs.
Valued Features Rating Breakdown
NordVPN
- Rating and Ranking: Boasting an impressive rating of 4.9, NordVPN secures the coveted #1 position out of 42 competitors.
- Server Network: NordVPN’s extensive network spans 5,800+ servers across 60 countries, ensuring a robust and versatile connection.
- Privacy Policy: A staunch advocate for user privacy, NordVPN strictly adheres to a no-logs policy, offering users a secure online experience.
- Pricing and Discounts: With a starting price of $2.99 per month, NordVPN sweetens the deal with an exclusive 69% discount using their dedicated coupon.
- VPN Protocols: Supporting OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and the high-speed WireGuard (NordLynx), NordVPN caters to diverse user needs.
- Streaming Services: NordVPN flexes its streaming prowess by effortlessly unblocking Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more.
- Platform Compatibility: Crossing platforms seamlessly, NordVPN is compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.
- Simultaneous Connections: NordVPN allows users to connect up to six devices simultaneously, ensuring coverage across various devices.
- Customer Support: With a comprehensive support system, including a knowledge base, FAQs, email, and 24/7 live chat, NordVPN prioritizes user assistance.
Surfshark VPN:
- Rating and Ranking: Scoring a commendable rating of 4.7, Surfshark VPN secures the #2 spot in the VPN rankings.
- Server Network: With 3,200+ servers spread across 100 countries, Surfshark VPN ensures a diverse and reliable global presence.
- Privacy Policy: Prioritizing user privacy, Surfshark VPN also strictly adheres to a no-logs policy, offering users a secure online environment.
- Pricing and Discounts: With an attractive starting price of $1.99 per month, Surfshark VPN sweetens the deal with an exclusive 80% discount using their dedicated coupon.
- VPN Protocols: Utilizing WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, Surfshark VPN promises a secure and efficient online experience.
- Streaming Services: Surfshark VPN excels in streaming, seamlessly unblocking Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
- Platform Compatibility: Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS, Surfshark VPN ensures accessibility across various devices.
- Simultaneous Connections: Surfshark VPN takes the lead with unlimited simultaneous connections, offering flexibility for users.
- Customer Support: Featuring a robust support system, including a knowledge base, 24/7 live chat, and email support, Surfshark VPN prioritizes user assistance.
Plans, Pricing, and Perks
Checking out the plans and pricing for NordVPN and Surfshark VPN? Surfshark takes the lead in the affordability department for both short-term and long-term subscriptions. Even in a face-off between their year and two-year plans, Surfshark emerges as the budget-friendly choice. Opting for a monthly subscription? Keep in mind that it’s the priciest route, with NordVPN at $12.99 and Surfshark slightly higher at $13.99. Now, let’s dive into the savings game for the longest commitment—the two-year plan. NordVPN sets you back $2.99/month, but Surfshark steals the show with a cost of $1.99/month, making it a stellar deal.
Payment flexibility is key, and here’s the breakdown: NordVPN accepts credit cards, PayPal (in specific regions), AmazonPay, ACH Transfer, Apple Pay, Google Pay, cryptocurrencies, and even cash at select retail stores. On the other hand, Surfshark keeps it simple with credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, Apple Pay, and cryptocurrencies. Need to pay in cash or prefer electronic transfers? NordVPN is your go-to.
When it comes to testing the waters, both providers offer a safety net. NordVPN and Surfshark give you 30-day money-back guarantees and 7-day free trials. Quick note: NordVPN’s free trial is accessible via Android devices, and only after registration can it be extended to other operating systems. Similarly, Surfshark’s free trial starts with iOS, Android, or macOS devices.
NordVPN and Surfshark Security Features
In cybersecurity, both NordVPN and Surfshark stand out for their commitment to robust privacy and online security. When dissecting NordVPN vs Surfshark, one key difference emerges: Surfshark introduces Poly1305 authentication alongside advanced AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20 encryption, adding an extra layer to prevent tampering with ciphertexts. A notable distinction lies in the jurisdiction of each VPN. NordVPN calls privacy-friendly Panama home, while Surfshark operates from the Netherlands, a member of the 9-Eyes Intelligence Alliance. This alliance’s commitment to cybersecurity and counterterrorism may pose privacy concerns for individuals. While NordVPN and Surfshark share common ground in security and privacy measures, nuances in their choices result in distinct online protection approaches. Let’s delve into the details.
Infrastructure and Encryption:
Both providers have upgraded servers to run on RAM-only hardware, eliminating long-term data storage. Industry-leading AES-256 ciphers, coupled with ChaCha20 ciphers, fortify security and speed. Surfshark takes the lead by offering Poly1305 authentication for data integrity verification.
Kill Switch:
Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer a crucial security tool—the kill switch, safeguarding your IP address in case of a VPN connection disruption. NordVPN allows customization of the protection activation timing.
Independent Audits:
NordVPN underwent two PwC audits confirming compliance with privacy claims. Deloitte conducted another audit for additional assurance. Surfshark passed two Cure53 audits and a Deloitte audit in 2023, solidifying its commitment to no-logs policies.
Bug Bounty Programs:
Both providers run bug bounty programs, inviting external hackers and researchers to identify security gaps proactively.
Jurisdiction:
Surfshark, based in the Netherlands, is part of the 9-Eyes alliance, while NordVPN’s home in Panama offers a privacy-friendly refuge, shielded from intrusive legislation.
In the end, whether you choose NordVPN or Surfshark, rest assured that both providers prioritize your online security and privacy.
Need for Speed: Surfshark vs NordVPN
In the high-stakes race of NordVPN vs Surfshark speed, we meticulously tested every protocol in 5 global locations (US, UK, France, Singapore, and Australia) to determine the average winner. The verdict is in: NordVPN outpaces Surfshark in speed. While both contenders offer lightning-fast speeds, NordVPN takes the lead thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol.
But hold on, there’s more to the story. We didn’t stop at NordLynx— we also assessed their performance with other heavyweights like OpenVPN (UDP and TCP variants) and the beloved IKEv2. Zooming in on the mobile users’ preferred IKEv2 protocol, the results were neck-and-neck. NordVPN experienced a 28% average download speed drop, while Surfshark’s was a close 27%. In the download speed arena, it’s a tie. However, when it comes to upload speeds, NordVPN edges ahead as the slightly more efficient option.
Exploring the Extras
In the clash of Surfshark VPN vs NordVPN, the true worth of a VPN provider lies in the array and quality of its features. Fortunately, both contenders deliver a comprehensive set of security extras, catering to both individuals and businesses. It’s worth noting that certain security tools from both NordVPN and Surfshark may come with an additional cost.
NordVPN’s Additional Features:
- Meshnet: Create a private encrypted network, connecting up to 60 devices simultaneously for secure file sharing, LAN parties, work, or browsing—available even for non-subscribers.
- Dark Web Monitoring: Continuously checks websites to monitor if your data has been leaked.
- Password Manager: Nord Security offers a market-leading password manager (NordPass) for auto-filling logins, generating complex passwords, and securing sensitive notes on unlimited devices (available at an extra cost with a NordVPN subscription).
- Encrypted File Storage: Boost your NordVPN bundle with NordLocker secure cloud storage, suitable for businesses with up to 2TB storage, protected by AES-256, ECC, XChaCha20-Poly1305-IETF, Argon2id encryption ciphers.
Surfshark’s Additional Features:
- GPS Spoofer: Easily spoof your location on Android devices, tricking websites and apps that detect your geographical location.
- Alerts: Monitor data related to credit cards, national IDs, and email addresses with Surfshark’s Alerts feature.
- IP Rotator: Stay untraceable as Surfshark switches your VPN-given IP every other minute using the IP rotator.
- Incogni: Part of the Surfshark One+ bundle, Incogni removes your personal information from data brokers’ databases.
- Antivirus: Expand protection beyond online data to safeguard your device from malware threats with Surfshark Antivirus (available at an extra cost).
Wrapping Up
Surfshark and NordVPN are two competing choices that made our list of the top 10 VPNs for 2023. Both VPNs are almost the same price for an annual subscription, however, Surfshark’s offer would save you about INR 2,463 if you’re willing to commit for two years. Go with Surfshark if you want a VPN that you can use on as many devices as you like. Select NordVPN if you require a dedicated IP for business or personal use. Select NordVPN if you would want to use a VPN for your business or team. NordLayers will enable you to safeguard the privacy of each team member’s account and internet usage.