Deciding between NordVPN and Surfshark can be tough. Both providers have exceptional features, unique connections, and appealing price plan. They are also heavily promoted by influencers, making it hard to distinguish facts from promotional content. In this comparison blog, we will examine the key aspects of each VPN provider to help you make an informed choice.
NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Server Locations | 59 countries | 100 countries |
| No. of Servers | 5,000+ | 3,200+ |
| Protocols | WireGuard (NordLynx), OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Basic Price (Monthly) | $12.99 | $15.95 |
| Basic Price (12-month) | $4.99 | $3.19 |
| Basic Price (24-month) | $3.99 | $2.69 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 6 | Unlimited |
| RAM-only Servers | Yes | Yes |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Private DNS | Yes | Yes |
| Logs | No logs | No logs |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| Obfuscated Servers | Yes | Yes |
| Dedicated IP Servers | Yes | Yes |
| Onion over VPN Servers | Yes | No |
| P2P Servers | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Ad Blocking | Yes | Yes |
| Streaming Services | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more |
| Customer Support | Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat | Knowledge base, 24/7 live chat, email support |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| Additional Features | GPS spoofing, more dedicated IP locations | Unlimited simultaneous connections, more server locations in Asia, Africa, and South America |
Security and Privacy
When it comes to security, both NordVPN and Surfshark provide robust encryption standards. They utilize the AES-256 algorithm with the OpenVPN protocol and introduced a newer protocol with an updated encryption cipher in 2020, setting a high standard for the market.
Both VPNs also include kill switches, leak protection, and RAM-only servers. RAM-only servers are notable for preventing the collection and storage of user data, as any data on these servers is erased with a simple reset, ensuring user privacy.
The no-logs policy is another vital aspect of VPN security. NordVPN’s no-logs policy has been audited three times, whereas Surfshark had its first audit only last year. Additionally, Surfshark moved its jurisdiction to the Netherlands, a 9-eyes country, in 2021, which raised some privacy concerns. In contrast, NordVPN is based in privacy-friendly Panama.
Overall, while Surfshark has made significant strides in ensuring user privacy, NordVPN’s longer track record and multiple audits make it the more reliable choice for security and privacy.
Performance
Performance is a crucial factor when choosing a VPN, especially for streaming and torrenting. Let’s start by examining the number of servers each provider offers.
NordVPN has a constantly growing server list, although the number of available countries has remained stable. Surfshark, on the other hand, has increased both the number of servers and available countries since its release. In 2022, Surfshark introduced the Nexus system, which enhanced its server connections.
Despite these advancements, NordVPN still leads in terms of server quantity and speed. The NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, gives NordVPN a significant edge over other providers, including those that use WireGuard.
This speed advantage is particularly beneficial for streaming and torrenting. While Surfshark is slightly slower, it excels in streaming by covering more locations, including usually inaccessible regions like India. However, for torrenting, NordVPN is the better choice due to its faster speeds, optimized P2P servers, and a free SOCKS5 proxy (though this proxy is non-encrypted).
The NordVPN logo is designed to convey themes of strength, security, and reliability. It features a circular emblem that depicts mountain peaks, symbolizing stability and protection. The logo employs two dynamic shades of blue, which reflect trust and tranquility, while the name “NordVPN” is presented in a modern, sans-serif font that emphasizes clarity and straightforwardness
The Surfshark logo features a stylized shark fin within a circular shape. The Shark Fin, represents speed and efficiency, qualities that are essential for a VPN service. The circular shape often associated with unity and completeness, the circular shape reinforces the concept of a protective barrier around users’ data.
Ease of Use
For beginners, the user interface and ease of use are crucial factors. Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer modern, minimalistic UIs across all devices, from PCs to mobiles to browsers.
Surfshark stands out by allowing unlimited simultaneous connections on one account, making it ideal for households with multiple devices. In contrast, NordVPN limits the number of devices to six per account.
Both VPNs provide detailed explanations of their features, making them accessible even to beginners. NordVPN’s interactive map feature is particularly user-friendly, while Surfshark’s unlimited device policy adds an extra layer of convenience.
Shared Features
NordVPN and Surfshark share several features that enhance their functionality. Both offer split tunneling, allowing users to configure which apps use the VPN and which do not. They also provide obfuscated servers to hide VPN traffic from Internet Service Providers (ISPs), which is useful in restricted countries.
Another shared feature is multi-hop, which routes your connection through multiple servers for added security. Surfshark’s version is dynamic, allowing users to choose their server combinations, whereas NordVPN offers static options.
Both providers include ad-blocking features: CleanWeb for Surfshark and Threat Protection for NordVPN. While both are effective at blocking ads, trackers, and malicious links, NordVPN’s Threat Protection also blocks malware in downloads.
Dedicated IP addresses are another feature offered by both VPNs. NordVPN provides more dedicated IP locations than Surfshark for about the same price, making it a slightly better option in this regard.
Unique Features
Each provider also offers unique features that set them apart. NordVPN is known for its feature-rich offerings, including Meshnet, which securely connects multiple devices in a LAN-like connection. Meshnet is free for everyone, not just NordVPN users.
NordVPN also monitors the dark web for signs of your stolen or leaked details, notifying you of any issues. Additionally, NordVPN offers Onion Over VPN servers, integrating Tor’s privacy measures with VPN for the ultimate in secure, albeit slow, browsing.
Surfshark, while lacking some of NordVPN’s advanced options, offers the Surfshark One bundle. This collection of cybersecurity features includes an audited standalone antivirus, secure search, data breach alerts, and alternative ID, which creates a fake persona to secure your online presence. Surfshark’s bundle is integrated into the VPN app, offering a high level of convenience.
NordVPN also offers additional value in its bundles, such as a password manager and encrypted file storage, though these come as separate apps and do not offer the same level of integration as Surfshark’s bundle.
The Key Takeaways
At the end of the day, the choice between NordVPN and Surfshark depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize reliable security, fast speeds, and access to unique features, NordVPN is the better option. Its long track record and multiple audits make it a trustworthy choice for privacy and security.
On the other hand, if streaming is your primary concern, Surfshark is the better choice. It offers a wide range of locations and additional security features that help build comprehensive protection for all your devices. Its unlimited device policy and integrated cybersecurity bundle add to its appeal.
Ultimately, both NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent choices, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. We hope this comparison has helped you decide which VPN is best for you in 2024.
Feel free to share your thoughts and let us know which VPN you find perfect for your needs. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated with our latest news.
