In this in-depth comparison, we’ll break down Surfshark vs NordVPN across pricing, performance, speed, streaming capabilities, security features, ease of use, and customer support. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which VPN is better for your needs.

1. Pricing: Which VPN Gives Better Value?

When choosing a VPN, pricing is often the first factor. Both Surfshark and NordVPN offer flexible plans, but they approach affordability differently.

• Surfshark:

  • Monthly: Around $12.95

  • 1-year plan: ~$3.99/month

  • 2-year plan: ~$2.29/month (often includes discounts and extra months free)

  • Unlimited device connections included

• NordVPN:

  • Monthly: Around $12.99

  • 1-year plan: ~$4.99/month

  • 2-year plan: ~$3.29/month

  • 6 simultaneous device connections

👉 Verdict: Surfshark is generally the more affordable option, especially if you need coverage for multiple devices. Its unlimited device policy makes it perfect for families or users with lots of gadgets.

💡 Tip: Keep an eye out for special NordVPN discount codes, which can lower the cost even further.

2. Security & Privacy

Security is the backbone of any VPN service, and both Surfshark and NordVPN take it seriously.

• Surfshark Security Features:

  • AES-256-GCM encryption

  • Kill switch protection

  • DNS & leak protection

  • RAM-only servers (no data retention)

  • MultiHop (connect via two VPN servers for double security)

  • Camouflage Mode (disguises VPN traffic)

• NordVPN Security Features:

  • AES-256-CBC encryption

  • Kill switch protection

  • Threat Protection (blocks malware, ads, and trackers)

  • Double VPN servers

  • Onion over VPN (Tor + VPN for maximum privacy)

  • RAM-only servers with no-logs policy

👉 Verdict: NordVPN slightly edges out here with advanced options like Onion over VPN and Threat Protection. However, Surfshark’s security is still industry-leading and more than sufficient for the average user.

3. Speed & Performance

VPNs are notorious for slowing down internet speeds, so performance matters a lot.

• Surfshark:

  • WireGuard protocol ensures fast speeds

  • Reliable for HD streaming and browsing

  • Minimal drops in connection

• NordVPN:

  • NordLynx protocol (Nord’s version of WireGuard) offers exceptional speeds

  • Slightly faster on average compared to Surfshark in independent tests

  • Optimized for heavy streaming and torrenting

👉 Verdict: NordVPN generally delivers faster speeds, especially for high-bandwidth activities like 4K streaming and large file downloads.

4. Streaming & Geo-Unblocking

Both VPNs are excellent choices for bypassing geo-restrictions and streaming platforms.

• Surfshark:

  • Works with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

  • Unlimited devices means everyone in the household can stream

  • SmartDNS available for devices that don’t support VPNs

• NordVPN:

  • Also unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

  • Slightly more reliable with tricky platforms like Amazon Prime

  • SmartPlay feature for seamless streaming

👉 Verdict: Both are excellent for streaming, but NordVPN tends to be more consistent across platforms. Surfshark’s unlimited devices, however, make it unbeatable for families.

5. Server Network

A large server network ensures better connectivity and more options for unblocking content worldwide.

• Surfshark:

  • 3,200+ servers in 100 countries

  • Strong global coverage

  • Focuses on newer regions where competitors lack servers

• NordVPN:

  • 6,400+ servers in 111 countries

  • Larger overall server count

  • Specialized servers (P2P, Onion over VPN, Double VPN)

👉 Verdict: NordVPN takes the lead with a bigger network and more specialized servers. Surfshark, however, still provides excellent coverage for everyday use.

6. User Experience & Apps

Ease of use makes a huge difference for VPN beginners.

• Surfshark:

  • Clean, beginner-friendly interface

  • Available on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and smart TVs

  • Unlimited device connections

  • Lightweight and simple to set up

• NordVPN:

  • More advanced dashboard with lots of features

  • Apps for all major platforms

  • 6 device limit may be restrictive for some users

  • More customization options for advanced users

👉 Verdict: Surfshark is easier for beginners, while NordVPN caters to advanced users who want more control.

7. Customer Support

Both providers offer strong customer support.

• Surfshark:

  • 24/7 live chat

  • Email support

  • Clear tutorials and guides

• NordVPN:

  • 24/7 live chat

  • Email support

  • Large knowledge base with detailed troubleshooting guides

👉 Verdict: Tie – both have excellent, responsive support teams.

8. Unique Features

Every VPN has standout features.

• Surfshark Unique Features:

  • Unlimited devices

  • Camouflage Mode (great for bypassing censorship)

  • Surfshark One (bundled package with antivirus and identity protection)

• NordVPN Unique Features:

  • Onion over VPN

  • Threat Protection (malware/ad blocking)

  • Meshnet (securely connect devices remotely)

9. Pros & Cons

Surfshark Pros:

• Cheaper long-term pricing

• Unlimited devices

• Strong security features

• Easy-to-use interface

• Excellent streaming performance

Surfshark Cons:

• Smaller server network than NordVPN

• Speeds slightly slower

NordVPN Pros:

• Faster speeds with NordLynx

• Bigger server network

• More advanced features (Onion over VPN, Meshnet)

• Great for torrenting and advanced users

NordVPN Cons:

• Slightly more expensive

• Device limit (6 max)

10. Final Verdict: Surfshark vs NordVPN

So, which VPN should you choose in 2025?

• If you want affordability, unlimited device connections, and a beginner-friendly VPN, Surfshark is the better choice. It’s perfect for families, budget-conscious users, and those who just want a reliable VPN without overcomplicating things.

• If you prefer faster speeds, more advanced features, and a larger server network, NordVPN is worth the extra cost. It’s great for heavy streamers, torrenters, and privacy enthusiasts.

👉 Bottom line: Both VPNs are excellent, but Surfshark wins on value, while NordVPN wins on speed and advanced features.

FAQs

Q1: Which is faster, Surfshark or NordVPN?
NordVPN is usually faster thanks to its NordLynx protocol, but Surfshark is still fast enough for HD streaming and daily use.

Q2: Can both Surfshark and NordVPN unblock Netflix?
Yes, both VPNs work with Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and more.

Q3: Is Surfshark or NordVPN better for families?
Surfshark is better since it allows unlimited devices under one subscription.

Q4: Do Surfshark and NordVPN keep logs?
Both providers have strict no-logs policies and operate RAM-only servers.

Q5: Which VPN is cheaper in the long run?
Surfshark is generally cheaper, especially with discount codes applied.