NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN are great services. Searching for a VPN, you may find yourself spoiled for choice. Every tool ranks well at the top of our best VPN list.
But how do they charge face to face? Which offers additional security & which is healthier for transmission?
In this NordVPN vs. Surfshark comparison, I’ll highlight their speed check scores, features, security strength, apps, and quality of their customer support. Once you do this short scan, you will have a much higher plan that the service is ultimately a much better VPN.
Table of Contents
NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN Comparison
Overview
| NordVPN | Surfshark VPN | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating: | 4.9★★★★★ | 4.7★★★★★ |
| Overall rank: | #1 out of #30 | #2 out of #30 |
| Servers: | 5,500+ servers in 59 countries | 3200+ servers in 95 countries |
| No logs policy: | No Logging | No Logging |
| Pricing: | From $3.29/month | From $2.49/month |
| 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, FAQ, Email, 24/7 Live Chat | Knowledge base, 24/7 live chat, email support |
Speed Comparison Of NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN?
For this comparison between NordVPN and Surfshark, I measured the speed of each protocol in three completely different locations (US, UK, and Canada) to see which had a much better average tempo. The next step is the examination of the providers themselves.
NordVPN & Surfshark VPN use WireGuard, although, in NordVPN’s case, it’s a rather adorable version known as NordLynx. It is one of the most popular and commonly used protocols, and speed results are the best indicator of which VPN provider is healthier.
| Download Retention |  |  |
 US (NY) | 35% (338 Mbit/s) | 33% (316 Mbit/s) |
 United Kingdom | 71% (679 Mbit/s) | 65% (626 Mbit/s) |
 France | 86% (829 Mbit/s) | 78% (747 Mbit/s) |
 Singapore | 100% (1,000 Mbit/s) | 88% (840 Mbit/s) |
 Australia | 71% (682 Mbit/s) | 60% (573 Mbit/s) |
| Upload Retention | ||
| US (NY) | 32% (313 Mbit/s) | 30% (294 Mbit/s) |
| United Kingdom | 64% (615 Mbit/s) | 62% (596 Mbit/s) |
| France | 83% (796 Mbit/s) | 75% (724 Mbit/s) |
| Singapore | 68% (649 Mbit/s) | 70% (670 Mbit/s) |
| Australia | 61% (587 Mbit/s) | 51% (494 Mbit/s) |
The immense difference is in the US, where NordVPN significantly outperforms Surfshark. Meanwhile, alternate locations show constant speed or shutdown results for each VPN provider.
So first glance seems like NordVPN and Surfshark speeds are pretty close. NordVPN is a bit fast to transfer and transfer speeds.
But that is not all. In addition, we compared its performance against alternative protocols, OpenVPN (variants of transmission control protocol and UDP) and IKEv2.
- Baseline: 300 Mbps download/300 Mbps upload
While examining mobile users’ favorite IKEv2 protocol, the results were pretty close. NordVPN’s average transfer speed drop was 28th, while Surfshark’s was 27th. So in terms of transfer speeds, both providers are pretty much identical. However, NordVPN can be a bit cheaper with transfer speeds.
| IKEv2 | NordVPN | Surfshark |
| Download average | 215 Mbps | 219.8 Mbps |
| Upload average | 50.6 Mbps | 38.5 Mbps |
More
While OpenVPN UDP may be a faster variant of this protocol, speed drop percentages vary. It seems that NordVPN peaked in some places, while Surfshark was more consistent overall.
| OpenVPN UDP | NordVPN | Surfshark |
| Download average | 197.2 Mbps | 120.2 Mbps |
| Upload average | 68.4 Mbps | 140.3 Mbps |
Getting forward to the OpenVPN transmission control protocol variant, severe throttling is a typical sight. It may be a protocol that focuses on security rather than speed. Unsurprisingly this case, each Nursing Associate service provider performs virtually identically.
| OpenVPN TCP | NordVPN | Surfshark |
| Download average | 32.5 Mbps | 25.8 Mbps |
| Upload average | 27.5 Mbps | 28 Mbps |
Features Overview
In terms of options, NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN adds a lot of extra subscription perks.
Although NordVPN has additional specialized server options, Surfshark proves to be just as capable. It’s similar to matching options every step of the way.
SmartDNS
Most devices that are your streaming media devices don’t always have native VPN support. So NordVPN’s partner at Nursingd Surfshark came up with ways to have VPN-like functionality without it being a requirement for an app.
In the case of NordVPN, you get SmartPlay. Impulsive is activated when you use a VPN to unblock streaming sites. Although you will also configure it as a daily SmartDNS feature that can override your device’s DNS settings, it will also be activated through the app when you access websites with geo-restricted media. As such, it’s a touch of just SmartDNS.
Surfshark’s twist on the constant formula is merely known as SmartDNS. It works exactly like the NordVPN version. Even the success rate is comparable.
Specialty Servers
Both NordVPN and Surfshark have specialized servers. They provide additional benefits to your membership and have typical use cases. For example, Surfshark has static, Multi-hop, and P2P computer servers.
Multihop: With these servers, your connections are established more with a pair of VPN servers than with one. Thus, it eliminates any trace of your actual computer address.
P2P – Although you will download torrents on any of their servers, a keen P2P option may have the lowest speeds.
Static Computing, Unlike competing for steady computing solutions, anyone can access the servers provided by Surfshark. The computer address will not belong to you alone, although a constant computer address will be assigned to you when you connect with them.
Although they would otherwise be terrifyingly spectacular deals, NordVPN is just as versatile. It matches your Multi-hop with your Double VPN servers. The constant goes for the P2P server, but the variety of types is greater.
Obfuscated servers are specialized servers that encrypt your communication and make it appear as though a VPN isn’t being used (although, Surfshark also features a remarkable switch within the settings).
Finally, NordVPNIP / Dedicated IP addresses are reserved only for those who pay the most. Still, you are the only one who can access that specific computer address.
Split Tunneling
Split tunneling is one of the best handy options a VPN service will have. It offers you an additional precise way thanks to routeing your web traffic.
NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN have terrifyingly similar implementations. It will only route specific apps through a VPN or add exclusions to your VPN affiliation. In whole cases, this removes the requirement to disconnect from the VPN after connecting directly.
Unfortunately, both vendors have only implemented it on Windows and mechanical man. Therefore, if you are a Macintosh and iPhone user, This function won’t be accessible.
Web Filters
Whichever contestant you choose, you’ll get internet filters to protect you once you’re out surfing. Surfshark’s version of this feature is called CleanWeb. Immediately stops invasive trackers and advertisements. It can do by interfering with the IPs connected to tracking hosts, spyware, or adware.
NordVPN’s spin on this formula is called CyberSec. It will be the same as CleanWeb: it blocks boycott IPs. after you try Nursing Associate enter a website with a computer science associate, would be cautioned that this page is not secure and is restricted.
Other
Overall, NordVPN presents a ready stop for almost every feature that Surfshark has developed. For example, while NordVPN has a dark web watch, Surfshark has alerts, and they both check to see if your data ended up in data breaches.
Surfshark VPN vs NordVPN: Which Is More Secure?
| NordVPN | Surfshark | |
| Encryption | AES-256-CBC | AES-256-GCM and Chacha20Poly1305 |
| Hash | SHA-512 | SHA-512 |
| RAM servers | Yes | Yes |
| Based in | Panama | The Netherlands |
| No-logs policy | Audited | Audited |
NordVPN and Surfshark take security very seriously and have put in place all the necessary measures & more. Additionally, each provider has undergone independent security audits, making them as safe and reliable as possible. Let’s take a deeper look and compare the protection of NordVPN and Surfshark.
To maintain its non-public affiliation, NordVPN uses AES-256-CBC encryption, while Surfshark relies on AES-256-GCM and Chacha20-Poly1305. Although the AES GCM version may be a bit more modern and theoretically more secure, all those options are impossible to crack.
The solution exploits the SHA-512 hash function, encoding your credentials in fixed-size chunks. So your positive id is never uploaded anywhere in plain text.
Both services use servers that only have RAM, and the best writer is similar. What if they were all founded in privacy-friendly states is a different story.
Each service has a unique selling point when it comes to peace audits. NordVPN has undergone 2-public audits for its zero logs policy by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC). Also, in 2019, VerSprite conducted a security audit on NordVPN apps.
Meanwhile, Surfshark has been double-audited. The WHO also examined the server system and general security tool after Cure53 assessed the server infrastructure and the Surfshark browser extensions.
Infrastructure
RAM-only VPN servers were something only a couple of providers had recently. Today, you may notice additional services running without exhausting drives. NordVPN and Surfshark have updated most of their servers to run on RAM only. It means there is no disk drive to which it is possible to write user logs.
It also limits the possibility of servers have mistreated. Servers with depleted drives may allow backdoors for observation. However, RAM-only servers clear themselves on every reboot.
It makes the style of servers designed on purpose by choice much harder to crack because they don’t follow the standard layout.
Privacy
Surfshark exists based in a European country. Unfortunately, the homeland is a 9-eyes intelligence alliance location. It shares relevant data with alternative member countries if the need arises. It may raise some concerns about Surfshark’s working policy, but rest assured, the VPN provider doesn’t need to log any identifying user data for it not to. In turn, there is no information to share.
NordVPN follows an almost identical associate degree pattern. However, they do place their service in Panama. It’s another privacy-friendly place that’s off limits to police work alliances. Therefore, your information is not vulnerable to intrusive legislation, No matter whatever service you select.
Logging
Surfshark and NordVPN guarantee that contrary to what most VPN service providers do, data not be stored. It provides added credence to their RAM-only server claims. However, NordVPN adds a leading horse during this race.
NordVPN and Surfshark had 2-independent audits examining their compliance with privacy policy claims. For NordVPN, the government organization PCX transferred the audits (PricewaterhouseCoopers), and every time the audit on NordVPN will continue with its guarantees. After all, he even embeds a bug bounty program on his HackerOne page.
Meanwhile, The Cure53 double penetration testers examined Surfshark. They checked the browser extensions, the server infrastructure, and the overall security of the tool. Surfshark showed outstanding security results in all audits.
Generally, NordVPN has a slight edge in this space due to the bug bounty program.
Netflix and Streaming Performance
| Platform | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Hulu | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| HBO Max | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Disney + | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| BBC iPlayer | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| DAZN | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN mention capabilities to unblock geo-restricted streaming websites in their options section. Netflix is aggregate of the most modern streaming platforms, receives a mention.
Unsurprisingly, neither NordVPN nor Surfshark had any issues unblocking foreign Netflix libraries. I was able to unlock the US exclusives and was able to connect to Japan with both services. So if you are looking for a VPN for Netflix, both options can work well. They both support split tunneling, so you can co-create Netflix to work entirely with a VPN.
It goes for the other side of Netflix & I was able to unblock BBC iPlayer and YouTube. Therefore, alternative media services are not out of the question. None of the providers caused errors to ruin the experience.
The only distinction comes with DAZN. Several VPNs once struggled to unblock this sports streaming service and Surfshark contest with it but managed to loosen it in the end. In the meantime, NordVPN had no problems with it and would have something to try with its secret weapon: SmartPlay technology.
Torrenting
Both competitive VPNs have dedicated P2P servers, which are more optimized for faster downloads. You can download torrents from any of Surfshark’s servers, but the speeds will be tiny slower. Although NordVPN can be a little more limited, you can choose any server. When P2P activity is detected, you will automatically reconnect to a P2P server.
Plans & Pricing
With VPNs, the valuation schemes are usually pretty easy to digest. The longer your subscription, the greater the square measure of your savings. That abundance is true for both vendors during this comparison, too.
One of the massive differences between the two services is that with NordVPN, you get six synchronous connections per account, while Surfshark does not have a limit on this number. It is nearly new with as many different devices as you like. Think of it as a supercharged family arrangement at a fraction of the value.
| Plan | NordVPN | Surfshark |
| Monthly | $12.99/month | $12.95/month |
| One year | $4.59/month | $3.99/month |
| Two years | $3.29/month | $2.39/month |
The monthly subscription is the shortest possibility and will be the most expensive. NordVPN costs $12.99, while Surfshark will be a bit more costly at $12.95. Neither of the monthly options is pocket-friendly, so it’s wise to look at the lengthy options for a healthier price balance.
Your second level is for the annual subscription. NordVPN embeds a yearly fee that charges $68.85.00, while Surfshark asks for $47.88 for a year. So the whole year with Surfshark is cheaper than with NordVPN.
The extended biennial plan gives you the most effective savings. For the first two years, NordVPN costs $99, while Surfshark costs $59.76. There, Surfshark wins by a wide margin. Overall, you save almost ~$30. Each month the service would cost you $2.39, so it’s a great deal.
NordVPN could be a bit more comprehensive when it comes to payment options. You can use credit cards, PayPal (in specific regions), AmazonPay, Sofort, postpaid cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and cryptocurrencies. With any luck, it may also expire on store shelves.
Credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, and cryptocurrencies are all accepted by Surfshark. So the list could be a bit shorter, but you are not restricted here either.
In any case, both services support a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can give them a try before fully committing.
China And Countries With Restricted Internet Access
VPN use in China is restricted and misappropriated, and not all VPNs work there. The Great Firewall will not prevent NordVPN and Surfshark, though.
Both VPN providers have obfuscated servers, collectively refer as stealth mode, specifically designed to bypass firewalls and deep packet scanning (DPI) that restrictive governments can use against VPN use. Very likely suitable for use in China and everywhere else in the world.
However, you will most likely want exceptional settings to use VPNs in China and other restricted countries.
Server Locations
| NordVPN | SurfShark | |
|---|---|---|
| Servers | 5500+ | 3200+ |
| Countries (total) | 59 | 95 |
| Americas | 7 | 9 |
| Europe | 38 | 38 |
| Asia Pacific | 11 | 14 |
| Middle East & Africa | 4 | 4 |
Platforms, Interface, and Ease Of Use
| NordVPN | Surfshark | |
| Supported OS | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Other software and devices | Kodi, Android TVs, Fire devices | Android TVs, Fire devices |
| Browser Extensions | Chrome, Firefox | Chrome, Firefox |
| Simultaneous connections | 6 | Unlimited |
NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN supports the best class of operating systems. Its apps are also available in various shapes and forms, so installing them will not be a problem.
Generally, each vendor does not prohibit use cases with broad device support and a convenient user interface.
Desktop Apps
As usual, Linux users don’t get the prettiest possibility and don’t have a detectable interface for the Linux application to utilize. However, here, that is the case only with NordVPN. You will be attacking the terminal by typing on your intended servers. Although the NordVPN app worked well, Surfshark may be a game changer because it recently released an obsessive app for Linux with a pleasant visual interface and a feature-rich set of options.
Windows users get the most effective treatment. Not only do they get an aesthetically pleasing program, but by a host of options, you can’t get on macOS, like Split Tunneling/Whitelist.
It’s worth noting that the macOS versions for NordVPN and Surfshark are available in two forms: App Store versions and Website Transfer versions. NordVPN sideloading will have more recent updates, but only the OpenVPN tunneling protocol. Meanwhile, the Surfshark sideload only has the IKEv2 protocol (not available in the Windows app) with ONE chance of beta updates. So if you want additional tunneling protocols, please transfer the consumer from the app store.
Mobile Apps
The rule that humanoid VPN apps are superior to their iOS counterparts is not opposed here. NordVPN and Surfshark have an excellent humanoid version, while iOS may be a portion behind.
The humanoid version of Surfshark has Whitelister and GPS spoofing, a feature that, however, no other competing VPN has implemented. You can scan more about these options in our Surfshark VPN review. NordVPN’s humanoid incorporates a configurable kill switch, split tunneling, pause, and auto-connect.
While NordVPN’s iOS app contains a comprehensive kill switch, favorites tab, and dark web monitoring, it has its uses too. The iOS version of Surfshark also comprises a kill switch, but other additions are just CleanWeb and auto-connect.
Customer Support
| NordVPN | SurfShark | |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 live chat | ✅ | ✅ |
| ✅ | ✅ | |
| Phone line | ❌ | ❌ |
| Guides or Articles | ✅ | ✅ |
| FAQs | ✅ | ✅ |
If you have a problem, you’ll get multiple customer support options regardless of which provider you choose. Both have up-to-date customer support sites with guides and FAQs available.
Neither provider offers telecom services, but if you prefer added direct approach or have compulsory to get involved with a character, NordVPN and Surfshark have 24/7 live chat. Therefore, you will be able to perform the help even in the middle of the night.
My experience with each provider was pleasant. I shouldn’t have to wait in long lines, AND after appointing a particular agent, they made an effort to be informed and responsive to all of my questions.
Even once your question turns out to be hard, your inconvenience becomes a price ticket, and you can expect an email with a response in no time. So whichever service you choose, the customer support is just as elegant.
Which is better NordVPN vs Surfshark VPN?
| Category | NordVPN | SurfShark |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | ❌ | ✅ |
| Features | ❌ | ✅ |
| Protection | ✅ | ❌ |
| Streaming | ✅ | ❌ |
| Torrenting | ✅ | ❌ |
| Price | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ease Of use | ✅ | ✅ |
| Customer support | ✅ | ✅ |
NordVPN wins by a narrow margin. The only space within which the gap between NordVPN and Surfshark was transparency. NordVPN went through additional public audits, so it’s terrifyingly tangible proof that it’s ultimately the safest choice. Whether streaming or torrenting, you’ll get the right tools for the job with each provider. However, NordVPN offers you a more developed suite, which you should try to find once you buy a VPN.
However, both Surfshark and NordVPN offer similar protection and flexibility. Surfshark will pretty much match (and usually avoid) NordVPN in speeds, features, safety, torrents, price, and buyers. So it should have no surprise that each of these services finds its way onto most “best VPN” lists.
FAQs
Which is better: Surfshark VPN or NordVPN?
Only because of its slightly more trustworthy security measures, such as independent audits and a location that respects privacy, does NordVPN stand out as the better option between the two. Apart from that, both VPNs are equally clever and rank first on our list of the best VPNs
Is Surfshark an honest VPN for gaming?
The rapid transfer and transfer speed that Surfshark offers, Its terrifyingly low latency, and excellent encryption make it an ideal VPN for vice. Overall, if you want a vice VPN, it’s a good option.
Does Surfshark prevent DDoS?
Yes, especially when it comes to crime, Surfshark is effective at stopping DDoS. No hacker can DDoS your device since it encrypts your IP address using military-grade cryptographic techniques.
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