Surfshark vs NordVPN: which VPN is better in 2025

Surfshark and NordVPN stand out as two of the most popular providers on the market. Both services are renowned for their fast speeds, robust security features, extensive server networks, and ability to unblock restricted content worldwide. Whether streaming, torrenting, or safeguarding your online privacy, these VPN giants promise top-tier performance.
Since 2018, my team and I have specialized in VPN testing and analysis. Therefore, we bring years of industry expertise to determine the ultimate winner between NordVPN vs Surfshark.
My methodology focuses on several critical factors: server networks, speed, security features, ease of use, and pricing. I have rigorously tested these VPNs in real-world scenarios, assessing their ability to bypass geo-restrictions, maintain stable connections, and protect user privacy. Additionally, I have evaluated device compatibility, customer support responsiveness, and overall value for money. By thawing through this analysis, you'll clearly understand which VPN—Surfshark or NordVPN—is better for your needs.
NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN compared
Surfshark and NordVPN both provide secure, no-log usage. However, while Surfshark is slightly cheaper than NordVPN and allows unlimited simultaneous connections, NordVPN outshines Surfshark with a superior server network, better streaming capabilities, and faster torrenting performance. Both services excel in security and privacy, but the differences in performance and features can be decisive for users.
Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark |
⭐ Our rating |
9.8 ⭐ | 9.5 ⭐ |
🔄 Servers | 7400+ servers in 118 countries | 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
📦 VPN protocols | NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
⚡ Average download speed | 467 Mbps | 462 Mbps |
⚡ Average upload speed | 379 Mbps | 302 Mbps |
🌐 Jurisdiction | Panama | Netherlands (part of the 9 Eyes alliance) |
🔒 Encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
📖 Logging | Independently audited no-log policy | Independently audited no-log policy |
📥 Simultaneous connections | 10 | Unlimited |
💵 Price | $3.39/month | $2.19/month |
🔥 Active deal | Get NordVPN 76% OFF! | Get Surfshark 86% OFF! |
Are NordVPN and Surfshark owned by the same company? In 2022, Nord Security and Surfshark announced a merger, making Nord Security the parent company of both. Despite this, the two VPNs continue operating independently with separate infrastructures, maintaining their unique features and identities.
Key differences between NordVPN and Surfshark explained
NordVPN has been a trusted name in the VPN industry since its launch in 2012, and Surfshark entered the market in 2018. Despite the difference in experience, both have grown extremely popular in the VPN market, offering users advanced features like strong encryption, fast speeds, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions. However, the effectiveness of a VPN depends on continuous investment in innovation, adapting to user needs, and incorporating new features—and this is where the differences between NordVPN vs Surfshark begin. Each provider prioritizes different aspects of their service, catering to varied user needs. Take a look below:
When to choose NordVPN | When to choose Surfshark |
✅ You need fast speeds: Ideal for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. | ✅ Looking for the affordable VPN: Surfshark price starts at $2.19/month. |
✅ You need a wide server network: 7400+ servers in 118 countries | ✅ Want to use a VPN on multiple devices: Surfshark has unlimited simultaneous connections |
✅ When privacy is your priority: Based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with strong data protection. | ✅ When you seek great value: Low cost per device connection. |
❌ Looking for the cheapest VPN (NordVPN pricing starts at $3.39/month) | ❌ Prioritize the largest server network: (Surfshark has 3200+ servers in 100 countries) |
- Pricing. Surfshark is more affordable than NordVPN, with plans starting at $2.19/month compared to NordVPN’s $3.39/month. Surfshark, however, offers a more economical solution for budget-conscious users without sacrificing essential features.
- Device Connections. Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it ideal for households or users with multiple devices. NordVPN, on the other hand, also offers a generous 10 devices per account allowance.
- Server Network. NordVPN boasts over 7400 servers in 118 countries, significantly more than Surfshark’s 3200 servers in 100 countries. A larger server network provides more options for bypassing geo-restrictions and maintaining stable connections during peak usage times.
- Speed Performance. NordVPN performs slightly better in terms of speed, too. In my tests, Surfshark’s OpenVPN speeds ranged between 461 and 466 Mbps, while NordVPN consistently achieved 467 to 468 Mbps speeds using its proprietary NordLynx protocol.
- Torrenting Support. Both NordVPN and Surfshark support P2P file sharing, but NordVPN’s faster speeds and specialized P2P servers make it a better choice for torrenting enthusiasts.
- Streaming Capabilities. Both providers excel at unblocking streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. However, NordVPN’s more extensive server network performs better when accessing region-specific libraries.
- Privacy and Security. NordVPN’s Panama jurisdiction is considered more privacy-friendly than Surfshark’s Netherlands base. Additionally, NordVPN’s independently-audited no-logs policy and advanced security features, like Double VPN, provide an extra layer of assurance.
While NordVPN outperforms Surfshark in speed, server network size, and advanced security features, Surfshark’s affordability and unlimited device connections make it a compelling option for budget-conscious users. Ultimately, the choice between Surfshark and NordVPN depends on your specific needs, but NordVPN remains the superior option for those seeking top-tier performance and privacy.
Surfshark vs NordVPN price overview
Regarding pricing, Surfshark and NordVPN cater to different budgets and preferences. NordVPN offers a more affordable 1-month plan, while Surfshark provides better value on longer-term subscriptions. Below is a detailed comparison of their subscription plans:
Subscription plans | NordVPN | Surfshark VPN |
1-month plan | $12.99/month | $15.45/month |
1-year plan | $4.99/month | $3.19/month |
2-year plan | $3.39/month | $2.19/month |
Free trial | ✅ Yes, 7 days (mobile, Android) | ✅ Yes, 7 days (mobile) |
Money-back guarantee | ✅ Yes, 30 days | ✅ Yes, 30 days |
Current deal | Save 76% on NordVPN | Save 86% on Surfshark VPN |
Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer 1-month, 12-month, and 24-month plans. NordVPN’s 1-month plan is cheaper at $12.99/month compared to Surfshark’s $15.45/month. However, Surfshark takes the lead with its lower prices on 1-year and 2-year plans, costing $3.19/month and $2.19/month, respectively.
Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test their services before committing. While NordVPN offers a 7-day free trial for Android users only, and Surfshark does not have this limitation, NordVPN goes the extra mile by allowing cash payments in retail locations across six countries—the US, the UK, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, France, Spain, and Japan—a feature not available with Surfshark.
Otherwise, both VPN providers support a wide range of payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, Sofort, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and cryptocurrencies. This flexibility ensures a seamless subscription experience tailored to various use cases.
Server locations
The size of a VPN’s server fleet plays a crucial role in its overall performance. A larger network reduces overcrowding, improves speeds, and offers more flexibility for accessing geo-restricted content. When comparing Surfshark and NordVPN server networks, NordVPN has a clear advantage with a more extensive fleet and broader global coverage. NordVPN offers 7400+ servers across 118+ countries, while Surfshark provides 3200+ servers in 100+ countries.
Server Specification | NordVPN | Surfshark |
Servers | 7400+ | 3200+ |
Countries | 118+ | 100+ |
All physical servers | ❌ No | ❌ No |
Owns all servers | ❌ No | ❌ No |
In terms of regional coverage, NordVPN has a broader server distribution, particularly in regions like North America and Europe, making it ideal for users seeking diverse location options for streaming, gaming, or bypassing geo-restrictions. Surfshark, though smaller, strategically places its servers to cover key areas effectively, offering reliable performance and access for its users.
Overall, NordVPN’s larger network and advanced infrastructure give it a slight edge for users needing extensive server choices and advanced privacy features, while Surfshark remains a competitive option for those seeking solid performance at a smaller scale.
Region | NordVPN (countries) | Surfshark (countries) |
The Americas | 20+ | 15+ |
Europe | 45+ | 40+ |
Asia Pacific | 30+ | 25+ |
Middle East & Africa | 23+ | 20+ |
Currently, with NordVPN’s broader coverage, users have a better chance of finding a nearby server for optimal performance. This makes NordVPN a superior choice for users prioritizing speed, variety, and the ability to unblock content from various regions.
NordVPN vs Surfshark speed test
When it comes to speed, NordVPN slightly outperforms Surfshark in most scenarios. Based on my in-house testing, NordVPN achieved an average download speed of 475 Mbps, while Surfshark came close with an average of 473 Mbps. Both VPNs leverage the next-gen WireGuard protocol for impressive speeds, but NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx technology provides a slight edge in performance.
The speed tests were performed on Windows 11, i5-13600KF, 32GB RAM, baseline speed - 500 Mbps upload/download, 1 ms ping connecting to local and international servers across multiple countries worldwide. My team and I evaluated download and upload speeds, as well as ping times. Both NordVPN and Surfshark were tested using their WireGuard-based protocols: NordLynx for NordVPN and WireGuard for Surfshark. Find the testing result below:
Speed type | NordVPN | Surfshark VPN |
Local server download speed | 475 Mbps | 473 Mbps |
Local server upload speed | 476 Mbps | 471 Mbps |
Local server ping | 1 ms | 1 ms |
International server download average | 473 Mbps | 463 Mbps |
International server upload average | 373 Mbps | 272 Mbps |
International server ping average | 159 ms | 159 ms |
Note: Speed test results may vary depending on factors such as the distance between you and the server, server load, and your internet service provider's performance.
NordVPN consistently outperformed Surfshark in download and upload speeds across local and international servers. For example:
- On local (American) servers, NordVPN delivered a download speed of 475 Mbps compared to Surfshark’s 473 Mbps.
- On international servers, NordVPN maintained an average of 476 Mbps, slightly ahead of Surfshark’s 471 Mbps.
*NordVPN and Surfshark showed equal ping times both locally and internationally.
Therefore, while NordVPN edges out Surfshark in speed just slightly, both services are among the fastest available VPNs. Surfshark’s implementation of WireGuard ensures quick connectivity and stable performance, but NordVPN’s NordLynx technology enhances speed and security through its innovative double NAT system.
Ultimately, your experience may vary based on your location, server choice, and network conditions. If speed is your number one priority, NordVPN is the winner, but Surfshark remains its strong contender for most use cases.
Is NordVPN better than Surfshark for streaming?
Both NordVPN and Surfshark excel at unblocking popular streaming platforms, supporting services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, YouTube TV, Sling, and ESPN+. In testing, both VPNs successfully accessed Netflix libraries in the US, UK, Japan, and the Netherlands, maintaining UHD (4K) quality without buffering due to fast and reliable servers. Here’s a breakdown for you:
Streaming platforms | NordVPN | Surfshark |
Netflix US | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Other Netflix libraries | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Amazon Prime Video | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Hulu | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
HBO Max | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Disney+ | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
BBC iPlayer | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
YouTube TV | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Sling | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
ESPN+ | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Both providers also performed flawlessly on other platforms, bypassing geo-restrictions to access US and UK content libraries on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO Max, and unblocking Disney+ libraries in regions like the US, Canada, and Australia. BBC iPlayer worked seamlessly without multiple server switches, and streaming on ESPN+ and Sling TV was equally smooth.

Additionally, both NordVPN and Surfshark offer Smart DNS, allowing streaming on devices that don’t support VPN apps, such as Apple TV and gaming consoles. This feature, combined with NordVPN’s 10-device allowance and Surfshark’s unlimited connections, makes them versatile for multi-device households.

While both NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent for streaming, NordVPN has a slight edge due to its consistently faster speeds, which ensures an even smoother UHD experience.
Is Surfshark better than NordVPN for torrenting?
Regarding torrenting, both NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent choices, offering robust security features and support for P2P file sharing. However, key differences in how they handle torrenting may influence your decision. Find a summary below:
P2P specifications | NordVPN | Surfshark VPN |
Allowed on | ✅ Specialized P2P servers | ✅ All servers |
Free SOCKS5 proxy | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Split tunneling | ✅ Yes (Windows, Android, and Android TV) | ✅ Yes (Windows and Android) |
Kill Switch | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Leak Protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Torrenting with NordVPN is limited to specialized P2P servers optimized for speed and performance. This ensures faster download and upload speeds while maintaining a secure connection. However, not all NordVPN servers support P2P—servers in Albania, Bosnia, Moldova, and North Macedonia are excluded. NordVPN also includes a free SOCKS5 proxy, which can further enhance torrenting speeds and provide an additional layer of anonymity.
Unlike NordVPN, Surfshark allows torrenting on all 3200+ servers globally. While this provides more flexibility, the speeds may not match NordVPN’s specialized P2P servers. Surfshark lacks a SOCKS5 proxy, which might be a downside for users who prefer this feature for faster torrenting.
Both NordVPN and Surfshark come equipped with essential security features like a kill switch and leak protection, ensuring your IP address and personal data remain hidden during torrenting. Both providers offer split tunneling, allowing you to choose which apps or websites bypass the VPN, too.
Shortly, if high speeds are your priority, NordVPN is the better option for torrenting due to its specialized P2P servers and SOCKS5 proxy. However, if you value flexibility and the ability to torrent on any server, Surfshark is another strong VPN.
Surfshark VPN vs NordVPN security overview
When comparing NordVPN vs Surfshark for security, both are industry leaders, providing a powerful set of features to protect your data and online privacy. Both VPNs use AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption, offering strong protection against cyber threats. In addition, they include vital security tools such as a Kill Switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscated servers, which are essential for maintaining privacy and bypassing censorship. However, they are based in different jurisdictions, which can impact your data privacy.
Security features | NordVPN | Surfshark VPN |
Jurisdiction | Panama (privacy-friendly, no Eyes) | The Netherlands (Nine Eye jurisdiction) |
VPN protocols | NordLynx (WireGuard-based), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec | WireGUard, OpenVPN, IKEv/IPSec |
Encryption | AES-256, ChaCha20 | AES-256, ChaCha20 |
Kill switch | ✅ Yes, app-based & system-wide | ✅ Yes, on all platforms |
DNS leak protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Obfuscated servers | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
RAM-only servers | ✅ Yes, all the servers | ✅ Yes, part of the fleet |
Jurisdiction
Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, a Nine Eyes intelligence alliance member, raising potential surveillance concerns. However, its no-logs policy and RAM-only plus virtual servers ensure no user data is stored. In contrast, NordVPN operates from Panama, a privacy-friendly country outside the Eyes alliances with no mandatory data retention laws. NordVPN’s jurisdiction offers a clear advantage for privacy-conscious users, reinforced by multiple independent audits. While Surfshark ensures strong privacy measures, NordVPN’s location and transparency make it the better choice for those prioritizing anonymity.
Encryption
Both NordVPN and Surfshark use AES-256 encryption; however, the primary distinction lies in their jurisdiction and the specific protocols they support, with NordVPN using its proprietary NordLynx protocol while Surfshark leans towards WireGuard. NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, enhances privacy with a double NAT system, offering faster and more secure connections. While both are highly secure, NordVPN’s NordLynx gives it a slight edge in combining performance with privacy.
NOTE: You can use tools like GlassWire or Wireshark to check if your VPN is encrypted. With GlassWire, simply download and install the app to monitor your network activity in real time and confirm if your data is encrypted during transmission. Alternatively, Wireshark is a more advanced packet inspection tool that lets you capture and analyze internet packets; encrypted data will appear scrambled or unreadable, verifying your VPN’s encryption. Both tools effectively ensure your connection is secure.
Kill switch
NordVPN and Surfshark include a kill switch to prevent data leaks during VPN disconnections. NordVPN offers more customization with system-wide and app-specific kill switch settings, making it ideal for tailored protection. Surfshark’s kill switch is reliable but operates only at the network level and doesn’t activate if the VPN is manually turned off. Both providers passed leak tests, but NordVPN’s granular controls and additional features like Threat Protection make it more versatile. Surfshark’s CleanWeb ad blocker outperforms on ad-heavy sites, making it a strong contender for browsing privacy.
Cloaking technology
Both VPNs provide obfuscated servers to disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS activity, bypassing VPN blocks and censorship. This feature is especially useful in restrictive regions like China or Iran. NordVPN offers a broader range of obfuscated servers across more locations, giving it a clear edge for users in heavily censored areas. Surfshark’s obfuscation is effective but less extensive, making NordVPN the superior choice for robust cloaking capabilities.
NOTE: While Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature excels at blocking ads and avoiding detection on anti-adblock sites, its overall security suite is slightly less extensive than NordVPN’s.
Surfshark vs NordVPN independent audits
Independent audits verify VPN providers’ claims, especially about no-logs policies and security, ensuring transparency and user trust. NordVPN has undergone multiple audits, including Deloitte’s 2024 review of its no-logs policy and infrastructure, which confirmed strict adherence to privacy standards. Previously, PwC audited NordVPN three times, making it one of the most thoroughly reviewed VPNs. NordVPN also uses a bug bounty program to address vulnerabilities.
Surfshark has also passed audits, with Deloitte’s 2022 review confirming its no-logs claims. Additionally, Cure53 audited its browser extensions and infrastructure in 2023. Surfshark’s transparency in publicizing audit results is widely praised despite the company being based in one of the 9 Eyes Alliance countries, the Netherlands. NordVPN has a more extended audit history, making it win the ‘audits battle’; however, Surfshark remains reliable and appeals to users who value public audit results.
Extra features included in NordVPN and Surfshark subscription
Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer valuable features like Double VPN, split tunneling, GPS spoofing, DNS leak protection, and ad blockers as part of their standard subscriptions. However, certain advanced features may require a higher-tier plan or additional purchase:
Features | NordVPN | Surfshark |
Double VPN/Multi-Hop | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Split tunneling | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
GPS Spoofing | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Smart DNS | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Ad blocker | ✅ Yes, Threat Protection | ✅ Yes, Clean Web |
Dedicated IP | ☑️ Yes, but at an extra cost | ☑️ Yes, but at an extra cost |
Incogni (personal data removal tool) | ❌ No | ☑️ Yes, but at extra cost |
Alternative Phone Number | ❌ No | ☑️ Yes, but at extra cost |
Double VPN
NordVPN and Surfshark each offer double encryption by routing your data through two servers, enhancing privacy. While the functionality is similar, NordVPN calls it Double VPN, and Surfshark refers to it as Multi-Hop, with slight differences in how they work.
NordVPN’s Double VPN routes your traffic through two specific servers, offering enhanced security and making it fairly impossible to trace your activity. However, it has limited server pairs to choose from, which can sometimes reduce flexibility and performance. Surfshark’s Multi-Hop also encrypts data twice but allows more customization by offering a wider selection of server combinations from various countries, which increases anonymity and user control.
While both features can reduce speed, NordVPN’s Double VPN may cause a more noticeable slowdown due to its fixed server pairs. Surfshark’s Multi-Hop is easier to use and offers more flexibility in choosing servers, although the extra routing can still slightly impact speed.
Therefore, if you prioritize flexibility and ease of use, Surfshark’s Multi-Hop is the better option. However, if you prefer a more structured, secure solution with a strong reputation, NordVPN’s Double VPN stands out as the more traditional choice.
Split tunneling
Surfshark and NordVPN offer split tunneling, allowing users to route specific apps or traffic through the VPN while others bypass it. This feature helps manage bandwidth and access local content while maintaining privacy for certain activities.
NordVPN’s split tunneling works on Windows and Android, enabling users to choose which apps use the VPN. However, it lacks support for macOS and iOS, limiting its compatibility. Meanwhile, Surfshark offers split tunneling on Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS, making it versatile across platforms.
While both services performed well with minimal speed loss during in-house testing, the main difference remains platform support. Hence, Surfshark’s broader compatibility makes it the better option for users who need split tunneling across various devices.
GPS spoofing
Surfshark stands out as the only option offering GPS spoofing, and users can manually change their GPS location to match the VPN server. NordVPN lacks this feature, which limits its ability to mask location for apps relying on GPS data.
Surfshark’s GPS spoofing overrides your device’s coordinates, aligning them with the VPN server. This is useful for apps that depend on GPS, such as ridesharing, dating, or location-based games, and helps bypass restrictions on services using GPS alongside IP addresses. It’s particularly effective for streaming content or testing location-based apps. However, it’s only available on Android, which limits its usability.
Smart DNS
Smart DNS is crucial for accessing geo-restricted content on devices that don’t support VPNs, such as smart TVs, gaming consoles, and some streaming devices. Redirecting your DNS queries through a server in the desired location, Smart DNS allows you to bypass restrictions without encrypting your traffic, thus ensuring faster streaming speeds.
Both Surfshark and NordVPN offer Smart DNS functionality. NordVPN’s SmartDNS is straightforward to set up and supports various devices, making it ideal for streaming services like Netflix or Hulu. Surfshark also provides a Smart DNS feature, and while it’s similarly easy to configure, it offers fewer customization options than NordVPN.
Ad blocker
Surfshark’s CleanWeb and NordVPN’s Threat Protection block ads, trackers, and malicious websites, but their functionality differs. CleanWeb operates at the DNS level, preventing unwanted content from loading, while Threat Protection adds file scanning and works even when the VPN is off.
My in-house testing showed that they both effectively blocked ads and trackers. CleanWeb was seamless with no impact on browsing speed, while Threat Protection’s malware scanning offered extra security but slightly slowed downloads.
NOTE: No ad blocker replaces antivirus software, as they focus on blocking ads and web threats, not complete malware defense.
NordVPN vs Surfshark paid extra features
Both NordVPN and Surfshark provide optional paid features for users seeking advanced tools. NordVPN offers a dedicated IP, a password manager (NordPass), and encrypted cloud storage (NordLocker). Surfshark also provides a dedicated IP and its Surfshark One bundle, which includes antivirus, a privacy search tool, and data breach monitoring.
Extra paid features | NordVPN | Surfshark |
Dedicated IP | ✅ Yes ($4.99/month) | ✅ Yes ($3.99/month) |
Password manager | ✅ Yes (from $1.49/month) | ❌ No |
Encrypted cloud storage | ✅ Yes (from $3.99/month) | ❌ No |
Antivirus | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (part of Surfshark One, $1.49/month) |
Privacy search tool | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (part of Surfshark One, $1.49/month) |
Data breach monitoring | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (part of Surfshark One, $1.49/month) |
Both VPNs cater to different user needs with their paid extras. NordVPN’s offerings focus on privacy and security tools like cloud storage and password management, while Surfshark’s bundle provides an all-in-one solution with antivirus and privacy utilities.
Dedicated IP
Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer dedicated IP addresses as a paid add-on, providing users with a unique, static IP address that only they can use. This feature is ideal for accessing sensitive services like banking, corporate networks, or platforms that block shared VPN IPs. It ensures consistent access and reduces the chances of CAPTCHA verification or account bans.
NordVPN offers dedicated IPs in 18 countries, including the US, UK, Germany, Japan, Spain, and South Africa, with prices starting at $4.19/month. Surfshark, on the other hand, provides dedicated IPs in 11 countries at a slightly lower cost of $3.75/month.
Therefore, NordVPN is the better choice for those prioritizing a specific country or broader options. However, if cost is the primary concern and the available countries meet your needs, Surfshark is a strong contender.
Incogni feature
Incogni is a privacy tool offered by Surfshark and NordVPN. It is designed to help users remove their personal data from data brokers. While Surfshark owns the service, NordVPN is a referral partner, but functionality and pricing are identical.
Incogni requests data removal from brokers on your behalf, leveraging privacy laws like GDPR or CCPA to protect your personal information and reduce risks like identity theft or targeted ads. This relatively new feature reflects increased demand for tools beyond traditional VPN services.
Alternative phone number
The Alternative Phone Number feature is a relatively new addition from Surfshark. It is designed to provide users with a temporary, private phone number for verification purposes. It helps maintain privacy when signing up for services or verifying accounts that require a phone number. The app generates a temporary phone number for use in situations when you need to provide a phone number but want to keep your personal number private. It helps protect you against spam, unsolicited calls, and unwanted tracking.
Surfshark vs NordVPN apps: tested on different devices
Both NordVPN and Surfshark support various operating systems and devices, including mobile phones, desktops, and even smart TVs. They also offer browser extensions for easier use. However, a key difference lies in the number of simultaneous connections: Surfshark allows unlimited connections, while NordVPN limits users to 10 devices at a time. Here’s a comparison of their app support and features:
Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark |
Supported OS | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
Dedicated Linux app | ❌ No | ✅Yes |
Other software and devices | Routers, Smart TVs, Android TV, Linux | Routers, Smart TVs, Android TV, Gaming Consoles |
Browser extensions | Chrome, Firefox, Edge | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
Simultaneous connections | 10 | Unlimited |
Usability level | 🙌 Easy | 🙌 Easy |
I tested NordVPN and Surfshark on various devices, including mobile (iPhone 13, Samsung Galaxy S22) and desktop (MacBook Pro, Windows 11 PC). My tests focused on installation, usability, and performance across different operating systems and device types.
Compare NordVPN and Surfshark mobile apps
I tested Surfshark vs. NordVPN mobile apps on iOS (iPhone 13) and Android (Samsung Galaxy S22). Both were easy to install and set up. I particularly enjoyed NordVPN’s minimalistic interface, which has an interactive map for server selection and features like CyberSec and a kill switch. However, the server list can seem a bit cluttered. Meanwhile, Surfshark offers a sleek, modern design with features like Camouflage Mode and Whitelister (split tunneling) for extra privacy. The app feels more polished and organized.

From experience, NordVPN excels in security with its intuitive interface, making it easy to access essential features like server selection and specialized tools. Surfshark, on the other hand, impresses with its sleek, modern design and user-friendly layout, which makes navigating advanced features like Whitelister and Camouflage Mode seamless.

The main difference is that Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, while NordVPN allows up to 10 devices. Surfshark’s app is more feature-rich, while NordVPN focuses on security with options like Double VPN. In summary, Surfshark is better for privacy-focused users, while NordVPN is ideal for those seeking strong security and design simplicity.
Compare NordVPN and Surfshark desktop apps
I tested both NordVPN and Surfshark desktop apps on Windows and macOS. Both apps are easy to install and feature intuitive interfaces, but each has strengths. NordVPN offers a straightforward design with a map interface for server selection. It includes strong security features like a kill switch, CyberSec (ad and malware blocking), and Double VPN. However, the server list can feel slightly cluttered (much like with the mobile app), especially when manually selecting servers.

Surfshark has a sleek, modern design and includes privacy features like Camouflage Mode (to hide VPN traffic) and Whitelister. The app is well-organized and user-friendly but lacks some advanced security features in NordVPN, such as Double VPN.

Regarding performance, NordVPN excels in security with its advanced features, while Surfshark offers more flexibility with its privacy tools, making Nord the better choice for users prioritizing robust protection.
Which customer support is better: NordVPN or Surfshark
When comparing customer support for NordVPN vs Surfshark, they both offer 24/7 live chat, email support, and an extensive knowledge base, but neither provides phone support. I tested their responsiveness and found that NordVPN generally offers faster and more reliable support.
Support options | NordVPN | Surfshark VPN |
24/7 live chat | ✅ Yes (1-2 mins) | ☑️ Yes (3-4 mins) |
Email support | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Knowledge base | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Phone support | ❌ No | ❌ No |
NordVPN’s live chat responses were quick, often within a minute, and the agents provided clear, helpful answers. Their comprehensive knowledge base and email support is available for more detailed inquiries. Meanwhile, Surfshark's support is more mixed. While some users report prompt responses, I found their live chat took about 3–4 minutes. The answers were helpful but occasionally less detailed.

Surfshark vs NordVPN Reddit reviews
Redditors widely praise NordVPN for its speed and reliability. One user highlighted their five-year experience, noting consistent performance and dependable connections, making it their “VPN provider of choice.” Others emphasized NordVPN’s superior speed on PCs, describing it as “way faster” than Surfshark. Overall, NordVPN is seen as a high-performing, trusted option for those prioritizing speed and stability.

Surfshark is celebrated on Reddit for its affordability and features. Users appreciate its unlimited device support, making it an ideal choice for families or heavy device users. Its mobile, Fire TV, and Android TV apps are often preferred over NordVPN’s. While Surfshark is slightly slower on desktops, it compensates with its robust security features, global server coverage, and strong compatibility with streaming platforms.


Reddit discussions often reveal that both VPNs have their strengths. For instance, NordVPN excels in speed and reliability, especially on PCs, while Surfshark is more user-friendly for streaming and mobile apps. A common sentiment is that Surfshark offers better value for money, but NordVPN is unbeatable regarding desktop performance.
According to Redditors, you should choose NordVPN if you prioritize speed, desktop performance, and long-term reliability, and Surfshark if you want an affordable VPN with excellent streaming and mobile compatibility.
Surfshark vs NordVPN recap
Category | Winner | Notes |
💰 Price | Surfshark | Surfshark offers a more affordable 2-year plan at $2.19 per month, compared to NordVPN’s $3.39 per month |
🔄 Servers | NordVPN | NordVPN has a larger server network, with 7400+ servers across 118 countries, compared to Surfshark’s 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
⚡ Speed | NordVPN | NordVPN consistently offers faster speeds, especially with its NordLynx protocol, which outperforms Surfshark in speed tests |
🍿 Streaming | NordVPN | NordVPN excels in unblocking streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu and offers more flexibility in accessing content on various devices |
🔃 Torrenting | 🤝 Tie | Both VPNs offer excellent torrenting support with P2P-optimized servers and strong privacy features |
🔒 Protection | NordVPN | NordVPN provides more substantial security features like Double VPN and CyberSec, making it a better choice for those prioritizing security |
📦 Extra Features | Surfshark | Surfshark offers unique features like Camouflage Mode, Whitelister, and unlimited simultaneous connections, which give it an edge in flexibility. However, you pay extra. |
👥 Customer Support | NordVPN | NordVPN offers faster and more reliable customer support with quicker response times and helpful answers compared to Surfshark |
To conclude - NordVPN is the overall winner due to security, speed, and server count, while Surfshark shines in price, extra features, and streaming flexibility.
Which should you choose?
Choose NordVPN if you prioritize top-tier security, faster speeds, and a larger server network. It’s ideal for users who need robust privacy features, reliable performance for activities like 4K streaming or gaming, and access to a wide range of international content. With its advanced security tools and consistent high-speed connections, NordVPN is the better choice for those who value premium protection and performance.
Choose Surfshark if you’re looking for a budget-friendly VPN with excellent value. It’s perfect for users who need unlimited device connections, making it ideal for families or small businesses. Surfshark also offers strong streaming capabilities and flexibility, making it a great option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing key features. While it competes well, NordVPN remains the overall better choice for users with higher performance and privacy demands.
FAQ
Is Surfshark better than NordVPN?
Whether Surfshark is better than NordVPN depends on your priorities. Surfshark offers great value with features like unlimited device connections and a lower price point. However, NordVPN excels in security, speed, and a larger server network. If you prioritize privacy and performance, NordVPN is a better choice, but if budget and flexibility are key, Surfshark is a strong contender.
Is Surfshark owned by Nord?
No, Surfshark and NordVPN are separate companies. They are both popular VPN providers, but they operate independently. While both offer similar features like strong security and streaming access, their business operations and pricing models are different.
Is NordVPN safer than Surfshark?
NordVPN is considered safer due to its advanced security features like Double VPN, CyberSec, and NordLynx. While Surfshark offers solid encryption and privacy features, NordVPN’s extensive security tools make it a better choice for those prioritizing safety. However, both services provide strong protection against data leaks and cyber threats.
Can I be tracked if I use NordVPN?
Using NordVPN significantly reduces the risk of being tracked online by masking your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic. However, no VPN can guarantee 100% anonymity. If you don't follow safe browsing practices, use an antivirus, or have weak security settings, there’s still a tiny risk of being tracked.
Can you be tracked with Surfshark?
While Surfshark provides strong encryption and privacy features, making tracking difficult, no VPN alone offers complete anonymity. You still risk being tracked if you fail to use secure browsing habits, a reliable antivirus, or expose personal information. Overall, Surfshark is highly effective at protecting your privacy.
Is Surfshark faster than NordVPN?
NordVPN is faster than Surfshark, especially with its NordLynx protocol, which offers superior speed for streaming and gaming. Surfshark is also fast, but NordVPN’s larger server network and performance-optimized servers give it the edge in speed.
Why is NordVPN more expensive than Surfshark?
NordVPN is more expensive due to its larger server network, advanced security features like Double VPN, and overall stronger performance. It also invests more in research and development, which adds to its cost. Surfshark, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option with fewer advanced features.
- Key differences between NordVPN and Surfshark explained
- Surfshark vs NordVPN price overview
- Server locations
- NordVPN vs Surfshark speed test
- Is NordVPN better than Surfshark for streaming?
- Is Surfshark better than NordVPN for torrenting?
- Surfshark VPN vs NordVPN security overview
- Surfshark vs NordVPN independent audits
- Extra features included in NordVPN and Surfshark subscription
- Surfshark vs NordVPN apps: tested on different devices
- Which customer support is better: NordVPN or Surfshark
- Surfshark vs NordVPN recap
- FAQ