NordVPN vs Surfshark: Which VPN is Better?

In today’s digital age, protecting your personal data and privacy online is crucial. With the growing threats of hackers, tracking software, and geo-restrictions, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) have become essential tools for anyone looking to stay safe on the internet while enjoying unrestricted access. Today, we’ll dive into a detailed comparison of two popular VPN services – NordVPN and Surfshark. Both promise top-notch protection and a wide array of features, but which one is right for you? Let’s find out.

1. Basic Information VPN

About NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the most recognized VPN services on the market. Founded in 2012, it aims to provide users with a safer way to browse the internet. NordVPN is headquartered in Panama, a location advantageous for privacy as it has no data-sharing agreements with other countries.

About Surfshark

Surfshark is a relatively new contender, having launched in 2018. Despite its youth, it quickly gained popularity due to its competitive pricing and robust feature set. Surfshark is based in the British Virgin Islands, which is also beneficial for user privacy.

2. Security and Encryption NordVPN vs. Surfshark

Security is a paramount factor when choosing a VPN. Let’s see how NordVPN and Surfshark perform in this area.

NordVPN

• Encryption: NordVPN uses AES-256-GCM encryption with a 4096-bit DH key, which is currently considered the gold standard in encryption.
• Protocols: It offers several protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec. They have also introduced their proprietary NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, which enhances speed without compromising security.
• Additional Security Features: NordVPN includes features like Double VPN, CyberSec (ad and malware blocking), and an automatic kill switch to protect your data if the VPN connection drops.

Surfshark

• Encryption: Similar to NordVPN, Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption, ensuring top-notch security.
• Protocols: Surfshark supports OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and the fast and secure WireGuard protocol.
• Additional Security Features: Surfshark offers CleanWeb (ad, tracker, and malware blocking), MultiHop (double VPN), and a kill switch.

Both VPN services provide excellent encryption and a variety of security features. Your choice may come down to specific preferences for protocols and additional features.

3. Speed and Performance NordVPN vs. Surfshark

Speed is critical for VPN users, especially if you plan on streaming videos, playing online games, or downloading large files.

NordVPN speed and performance

NordVPN is renowned for its stability and speed. With over 5400 servers in 59+ countries, it provides a vast network that minimizes congestion and ensures fast connections. Their new NordLynx protocol, based on WireGuard, significantly boosts speed.

Surfshark speed and performance

Surfshark boasts over 3200 servers in 65 countries. While its network is smaller, the use of the WireGuard protocol helps to balance speed and performance, making it competitive with NordVPN. Most users report fast and stable connections, especially for streaming and downloading.

4. Number of Devices and Compatibility

NordVPN devices

NordVPN allows up to 6 devices to connect simultaneously per account. It is compatible with most operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, and offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

Surfshark devices

One of Surfshark’s standout features is its allowance for unlimited simultaneous device connections. This means you can protect all your devices and those of your family with one account. Surfshark supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and offers extensions for Chrome and Firefox.

5. User Interface and Ease of Use

NordVPN

NordVPN has an intuitive and user-friendly interface. Its apps are straightforward, with clearly labeled features and options. The setup process is quick and easy, making it accessible even for VPN beginners.

Surfshark

Surfshark provides a modern and clean interface that is easy to use. Its apps are designed to be accessible even for those new to VPNs. The installation and setup process is simple and quick, with a clear menu and options that make switching between servers and settings easy.

6. Price and Value NordVPN and Surfshark

Price NordVPN

NordVPN offers several pricing plans:

• Monthly plan: $11.95/month
• Annual plan: $4.92/month (billed annually at $59)
• Two-year plan: $3.71/month (billed every two years at $89)

NordVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free.

Price Surfshark

Surfshark is known for its competitive pricing:

• Monthly plan: $12.95/month
• Annual plan: $3.99/month (billed annually at $47.88)
• Two-year plan: $2.49/month (billed every two years at $59.76)

Surfshark also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving users plenty of time to test the service and decide if it’s right for them.

7. Customer Support

NordVPN

NordVPN provides 24/7 customer support via live chat and email. Their website also features an extensive knowledge base with guides, FAQs, and tutorials.

Surfshark

Surfshark offers 24/7 customer support through live chat and email. They also have a comprehensive support section with guides, articles, and FAQs to help users with common issues.

8. Conclusion: NordVPN vs. Surfshark

Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer excellent privacy protection, top-tier encryption, and a wide array of features. The choice between them will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

• Security: Both services offer top-notch encryption and various security features, making them equally secure.
• Speed and Performance: NordVPN might have a slight edge due to its larger server network, but Surfshark is also fast and reliable.
• Number of Devices: Surfshark is the clear winner with unlimited device connections.
• Price: Surfshark offers more competitive pricing, especially for long-term plans.
• User Friendliness: Both services offer user-friendly apps, so it’s a tie in this category.

Whether you choose NordVPN or Surfshark, you’ll get a high-quality VPN service that offers the protection and freedom you need online. If you’re still undecided, take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee both services offer and try them out for yourself.