software
Surfshark vs NordVPN 2026: Speed, Price & Security
NordVPN offers stronger encryption (AES-256), faster speeds (average 650 Mbps), and more server locations (6,500+), while Surfshark provides better value at $2.19/month and includes unlimited simultaneous connections versus NordVPN's 6 devices.
SV
Surfshark VPN
Budget-friendly VPN with unlimited connections, strong streaming support, and advanced privacy features.
Families with multiple devices, budget-conscious users, and those needing to protect streaming across many devices simultaneously
Score71%
VS
NordVPN
Premium VPN provider with strongest encryption, largest server network, and fastest average speeds.
Security-first users, small teams, and those requiring maximum encryption standards and extensive global server access
Score71%
154 attributes7 differences14 pros/cons
Quick Answer
AI SummaryNordVPN offers stronger encryption (AES-256), faster speeds (average 650 Mbps), and more server locations (6,500+), while Surfshark provides better value at $2.19/month and includes unlimited simultaneous connections versus NordVPN's 6 devices.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose Surfshark if you prioritize affordability, need unlimited simultaneous connections for a large household, and value flexibility with a 30-day refund policy. Choose NordVPN if you demand maximum security with AES-256 encryption, require access to 6,500+ global servers for consistent high speeds, and are willing to pay more for the industry's most robust infrastructure.
Community feedback
Was this verdict helpful?
Thanks — we'll use this to improve our verdicts.
S
Surfshark VPN
6.1/10
NordVPN
8.9/10
S
Choose Surfshark VPN if
Families with multiple devices, budget-conscious users, and those needing to protect streaming across many devices simultaneously
Choose NordVPN if
Best pickSecurity-first users, small teams, and those requiring maximum encryption standards and extensive global server access
Track this comparison
Get notified when prices change, new specs ship, or our verdict updates.
Triggers: price change new spec verdict update
No spam. Stop anytime.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Price (Monthly Plan):✓ Surfshark VPN wins($2.19/month vs $3.99/month)
- Simultaneous Connections:✓ Surfshark VPN wins(Unlimited vs 6 devices)
- Global Server Count:✓ NordVPN wins(6,500+ servers vs 3,200+ servers)
Key Facts & Figures
95 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | Surfshark VPN | NordVPN | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (Lowest Available Plan)(USD) | $2.19/month | — | — |
| Server Count(servers) | 3,200+ | 6,200+ servers | |
| Countries Served(countries) | 100 countries | 111 | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) | $2.19 | $3.99 | |
| Annual Subscription Cost(USD) | $26.28 | $47.88 | |
| Global Server Network(servers) | 3,200+ | 6,500+ | |
| Server Coverage(countries) | 98 countries | 111 countries | |
| Average Download Speed(Mbps) | 580 Mbps | 650 Mbps | |
| Money-Back Guarantee Period(days) | 30 days | 30 days | |
| Monthly Cost (Discounted Plan)(USD) | $2.49/month (2-year) | — | — |
| Monthly Cost (No Commitment)(USD) | $12.95/month | — | — |
| Country Coverage(countries) | 100 countries | 111 countries | |
| Simultaneous Connections(devices) | Unlimited | 6 | — |
| Netflix Unblocking Success Rate(%) | 94% (verified 2025) | 98% | |
| Peak Download Speed(Mbps) | 950+ Mbps | 950+ Mbps | |
| Server Locations(countries) | 111 countries | 111 countries | |
| Speed Retention Rate(%) | 92% | 92% | |
| Streaming Service Compatibility(platforms) | 10+ | 10+ | |
| Starting Monthly Price (2-year plan)(USD/month) | $3.99 | $3.99 | |
| Download Speed Performance Impact(% decrease from baseline) | 5.20% decrease | 5.20% decrease | |
| Download Speed(Mbps) | 950 Mbps | 950 Mbps | |
| Internet Speed Retention Rate(%) | 92% | 92% | |
| Netflix Libraries Accessible(libraries) | 30+ | 30+ | |
| Total Streaming Services Supported(services) | 10+ | 10+ | |
| Global Server Count(servers) | 6,500+ | 6,500+ | |
| Countries Covered(count) | 110+ countries | 110+ countries | |
| Annual Plan Price(USD) | From $69/year | From $69/year | |
| Basic Plan Monthly Cost(USD) | $3.09 | $3.09 | |
| Server Count(servers) | 7,200+ | 7,200+ | |
| Country Coverage(countries) | 110+ | 110+ | |
| Annual Cost (Best Plan)(USD) | $36+ | $36+ | |
| Base Monthly Price (USD)(USD/month) | $3.09 | $3.09 | |
| Annual Price (First Year)(USD/year) | $83.43 | $83.43 | |
| Number of Servers(servers) | 7200+ | 7200+ | |
| Simultaneous Connections(devices) | 10+ | 10+ | |
| Annual Subscription Cost (Best Plan)(USD) | $69.99/year (2-year plan) | $69.99/year (2-year plan) | |
| Devices Supported on Free Tier(devices) | 0 (Premium only) | 0 (Premium only) | |
| Devices Supported on Premium(devices) | 6 simultaneous connections | 6 simultaneous connections | |
| Browser Extensions Available(count) | 7 major browser extensions | 7 major browser extensions | |
| Annual Subscription Price(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Total VPN Servers(servers) | 6,500+ | 6,500+ | |
| Maximum Simultaneous Connections(devices) | 6 devices | 6 devices | |
| Countries with Presence(countries) | 111 | 111 | |
| Latest Security Audit Year | 2022 (PwC) | 2022 (PwC) | |
| Global Server Count(servers) | 6,400+ | 6,400+ | |
| Monthly Cost (Best Plan)(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (1-Year Plan)(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Free Tier Monthly Data(GB) | None | None | |
| Average Download Speed (US Servers)(Mbps) | 580 Mbps | 580 Mbps | |
| Monthly Price (Best Plan)(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Annual Cost(USD) | $47.88 | $47.88 | |
| Money-Back Guarantee(days) | 30 days | 30 days | |
| Monthly Price (Annual Plan)(USD) | $3.99 | $3.99 | |
| Total Server Count(servers) | 5,800+ | 5,800+ | |
| Annual Plan Price(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Monthly Price (Annual Commitment)(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Server Countries(countries) | 111 | 111 | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Annual Plan)(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Total VPN Servers Worldwide(servers) | 6,500+ | 6,500+ | |
| Countries with Server Presence(countries) | 111 countries | 111 countries | |
| No-Logs Audit Frequency(audits per year) | Annual (PwC) | Annual (PwC) | |
| Average Download Speed Loss(%) | 8% slower (NordLynx/WireGuard) | 8% slower (NordLynx/WireGuard) | |
| Netflix Streaming Reliability(%) | 89% success rate (tested 13 regions) | 89% success rate (tested 13 regions) | |
| Simultaneous Device Connections(devices) | 6 devices | 6 devices | |
| Customer Rating (Trustpilot)(out of 5.0) | 4.4 | 4.4 | |
| Annual Plan Cost (Per Month)(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Number of Servers(servers) | 5,900+ | 5,900+ | |
| Countries Covered(countries) | 111 countries | 111 countries | |
| Monthly Plan Price(USD) | $12.99 | $12.99 | |
| Average Connection Speed(Mbps) | 320 Mbps | 320 Mbps | |
| Monthly Price (2-Year Plan)(USD) | $3.49/month | $3.49/month | |
| Total Global Servers(servers) | 6,500+ | 6,500+ | |
| Annual Price (1-Year Plan)(USD) | $6.99/month | $6.99/month | |
| VPN Server Locations(countries) | 111 countries | 111 countries | |
| Devices Supported Simultaneously(devices) | 6 simultaneous connections | 6 simultaneous connections | |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | 7 days | 7 days | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Best Rate)(USD) | $3.99 | $3.99 | |
| Total VPN Server Count(servers) | 6,000 | 6,000 | |
| Countries Available(countries) | 111 | 111 | |
| Annual Cost (3-year vs 2-year plans)(USD) | $47.88 | $47.88 | |
| Number of VPN Servers(servers) | 6,500+ | 6,500+ | |
| Countries with Server Coverage(countries) | 111 | 111 | |
| Average Download Speed (500Mbps connection)(Mbps) | 350 | 350 | |
| Kill Switch Response Time(milliseconds) | 200-500ms | 200-500ms | |
| Annual Price (Best Plan)(USD per month) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Download Speed (500 mi distance)(Mbps) | 580 Mbps | 580 Mbps | |
| Global Server Network Size(servers) | 6,000+ | 6,000+ | |
| Monthly Subscription (Best Annual Rate)(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Transparency Report Frequency(per year) | Annual (1x/year) | Annual (1x/year) | |
| Annual Cost (Lowest Available Plan)(USD) | $47.88/year | $47.88/year | |
| Annual Plan Cost(USD/month) | $3.99 | $3.99 | |
| Month-to-Month Cost(USD/month) | $11.99 | $11.99 | |
| Monthly Subscription Price (Long-Term Plan)(USD) | $3.99/month | $3.99/month | |
| Annual Cost (12-Month Commitment)(USD) | $47.88/year | $47.88/year | |
| Monthly Subscription (Standard Plan)(USD) | $3.99 | $3.99 |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
SV
2Surfshark VPNNordVPN leads2 ties
Surfshark VPN
Attribute
NordVPN
- $2.19/month(winner)Price (Monthly Plan)$3.99/month
- Unlimited(winner)Simultaneous Connections6 devices
- 3,200+ serversGlobal Server Count6,500+ servers(winner)
- 580 MbpsAverage Download Speed650 Mbps(winner)
- ChaCha20 (128-bit)Encryption StandardAES-256 (256-bit)(winner)
- Yes, availableKill Switch FeatureYes, available
- 30 daysMoney-Back Guarantee30 days
- Price (Monthly Plan)
Surfshark VPN
$2.19/month(winner)
NordVPN
$3.99/month
- Simultaneous Connections
Surfshark VPN
Unlimited(winner)
NordVPN
6 devices
- Global Server Count
Surfshark VPN
3,200+ servers
NordVPN
6,500+ servers(winner)
- Average Download Speed
Surfshark VPN
580 Mbps
NordVPN
650 Mbps(winner)
- Encryption Standard
Surfshark VPN
ChaCha20 (128-bit)
NordVPN
AES-256 (256-bit)(winner)
- Kill Switch Feature
Surfshark VPN
Yes, available
NordVPN
Yes, available
- Money-Back Guarantee
Surfshark VPN
30 days
NordVPN
30 days
Full Comparison
| Attribute | Surfshark VPN | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (Lowest Available Plan)(USD) | $2.19/month | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) | $2.19(winner) | $3.99 |
| Annual Subscription Cost(USD) | $26.28(winner) | $47.88 |
| Monthly Cost (Discounted Plan)(USD) | $2.49/month (2-year) | — |
| Monthly Cost (No Commitment)(USD) | $12.95/month | — |
Show 30 more attributesStarting Monthly Price (2-year plan)(USD/month) $3.99 — Free Plan Data Limit(GB/month) None available — Annual Plan Price(USD) From $69/year — Basic Plan Monthly Cost(USD) $3.09 — Annual Cost (Best Plan)(USD) $36+ — Base Monthly Price (USD)(USD/month) $3.09 — Annual Price (First Year)(USD/year) $83.43 — Annual Subscription Cost (Best Plan)(USD) $69.99/year (2-year plan) — Monthly Cost (Best Plan)(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Subscription Cost (1-Year Plan)(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Price (Best Plan)(USD) $3.99/month — Annual Cost(USD) $47.88 — Monthly Price (Annual Plan)(USD) $3.99 — Annual Plan Price(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Price (Annual Commitment)(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Subscription Cost (Annual Plan)(USD) $3.99/month — Annual Plan Cost (Per Month)(USD) $3.99/month — Monthly Plan Price(USD) $12.99 — Monthly Price (2-Year Plan)(USD) $3.49/month — Annual Price (1-Year Plan)(USD) $6.99/month — Monthly Subscription Cost (Best Rate)(USD) $3.99 — Annual Cost (3-year vs 2-year plans)(USD) $47.88 — Annual Price (Best Plan)(USD per month) $3.99/month — Monthly Subscription (Best Annual Rate)(USD) $3.99/month — Annual Cost (Lowest Available Plan)(USD) $47.88/year — Annual Plan Cost(USD/month) $3.99 — Month-to-Month Cost(USD/month) $11.99 — Monthly Subscription Price (Long-Term Plan)(USD) $3.99/month — Annual Cost (12-Month Commitment)(USD) $47.88/year — Monthly Subscription (Standard Plan)(USD) $3.99 — | ||
| Server Count(servers) | 3,200+ | 6,200+ servers(winner) |
| Country Coverage(countries) | 100 countries | 111 countries(winner) |
| Server Locations(countries) | 111 countries | — |
| Global Server Count(servers) | 6,500+ | — |
| Server Count(servers) | 7,200+ | — |
Show 7 more attributesGlobal Server Count(servers) 6,400+ — Countries with Server Presence(countries) 111 countries — Number of Servers(servers) 5,900+ — Countries Covered(countries) 111 countries — Total Global Servers(servers) 6,500+ — Number of VPN Servers(servers) 6,500+ — Countries with Server Coverage(countries) 111 — | ||
| Countries Served(countries) | 100 countries | 111(winner) |
| Geographic Coverage(countries) | 60+ countries | — |
| Simultaneous Connections Per Account(devices) | Unlimited | — |
| Simultaneous Connections(devices) | Unlimited | 6 |
| Streaming Service Compatibility(platforms) | 10+ | — |
| Native Streaming Box Apps | Limited | — |
| Simultaneous Connections(devices) | 10+ | — |
Show 3 more attributesMaximum Simultaneous Connections(devices) 6 devices — Simultaneous Device Connections(devices) 6 devices — Port Forwarding Not available — | ||
| Open Source Code | Partial (apps open-source) | Partial components only |
| Kill Switch Feature | Yes (all platforms) | Yes (Standard) |
| Primary Encryption Protocol | ChaCha20 (128-bit) | AES-256 (256-bit) |
| Kill Switch Protection | Yes (all platforms) | Yes, all platforms |
| VPN Protocols Offered | NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | — |
| Encryption Standards Offered(algorithms) | AES-256 (NordLynx) | — |
Show 24 more attributesPrimary VPN Protocol NordLynx (WireGuard-based) — Encryption Standard AES-256 — Independent Security Audits Yes, regular audits — Kill Switch Feature Yes, on all platforms — Advanced Threat Protection Yes - Threat Protection Pro — Kill Switch Availability Yes (All Plans) — Independent Security Audit(year) PwC audit 2024 — Source Code Availability Proprietary/Closed-source — Kill Switch Implementation Yes, all platforms — Encryption Standard AES-256 — Primary Encryption Standard WireGuard with ChaCha20 — No-Logs Audit Frequency(audits per year) Annual (PwC) — Server Memory Type SSD-based — Supported Encryption Protocols(protocols) OpenVPN, WireGuard, ChaCha20, NordLynx — Kill Switch / Leak Protection Yes (Threat Protection included) — Recent Independent Security Audit PwC (2024) — Kill Switch Enabled by Default Yes — Encryption Type AES-256 Double VPN (dual layer) — No-Logs Certification Yes (multiple 2022-2024) — Password Encryption Standard IKEv2/IPSec or WireGuard — Independent Security Audits(audits) Partial open-source, limited audits — Code Openness Proprietary (audited) — Independent Security Audit (Latest) Deloitte (2024) — Kill Switch Response Time(milliseconds) 200-500ms — | ||
| Global Server Network(servers) | 3,200+ | 6,500+(winner) |
| Server Coverage(countries) | 98 countries | 111 countries(winner) |
| Number of Servers(servers) | 7200+ | — |
| Server Storage Type(text) | Mix of disk and RAM | — |
| Average Download Speed(Mbps) | 580 Mbps | 650 Mbps(winner) |
| Peak Download Speed(Mbps) | 950+ Mbps | — |
| Speed Retention Rate(%) | 92% | — |
| Connection Speed Rating | Fastest | — |
| Download Speed Performance Impact(% decrease from baseline) | 5.20% decrease | — |
Show 9 more attributesDownload Speed(Mbps) 950 Mbps — Internet Speed Retention Rate(%) 92% — Connection Speed Performance Faster globally — Average Download Speed(Mbps) Fast (20-50 Mbps typical) — Average Download Speed (US Servers)(Mbps) 580 Mbps — Average Download Speed Loss(%) 8% slower (NordLynx/WireGuard) — Average Connection Speed(Mbps) 320 Mbps — Average Download Speed (500Mbps connection)(Mbps) 350 — Download Speed (500 mi distance)(Mbps) 580 Mbps — | ||
| Money-Back Guarantee Period(days) | 30 days | 30 days |
| Money-Back Guarantee(days) | 30 days | — |
| Account Registration Required | Yes (email required) | — |
| Logging Policy | Strict no-logs | — |
| Jurisdiction Privacy Rating | Excellent - Panama | — |
| No-Logs Policy | Verified no-logs | — |
| Payment Anonymity Options | Crypto, card, PayPal | — |
Show 3 more attributesNo-Logging Audit Verification Yes (PwC audit 2024) — No-Logs Policy Jurisdiction Panama (outside 5/9/14-Eyes) — Log Retention Policy Strict no-logs policy — | ||
| Netflix Unblocking Success Rate(%) | 94% (verified 2025) | 98%(winner) |
| Netflix Libraries Accessible(libraries) | 30+ | — |
| Total Streaming Services Supported(services) | 10+ | — |
| Netflix Streaming Reliability(%) | 89% success rate (tested 13 regions) | — |
| Dark Web Monitor | Included | — |
| App Kill Switch Feature | Yes (app-level) | — |
| Dark Web Breach Monitoring | No | — |
| Breach Monitoring Included | No | — |
| US Streaming Platforms Supported(platforms) | 4+ (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max verified) | — |
| Free Trial or Free Plan(monthly data) | None - 30-day money back only | — |
| Devices Supported on Free Tier(devices) | 0 (Premium only) | — |
| Devices Supported on Premium(devices) | 6 simultaneous connections | — |
| Privacy Jurisdiction | Panama (5/9/14 Eyes) | — |
| Countries Covered(count) | 110+ countries | — |
| Country Coverage(countries) | 110+ | — |
| Total VPN Servers(servers) | 6,500+ | — |
| Server Countries(countries) | 111 | — |
| Total VPN Servers Worldwide(servers) | 6,500+ | — |
| VPN Server Locations(countries) | 111 countries | — |
| Streaming Compatibility | Full support for major platforms | — |
| Maximum Password Character Support(characters) | Not applicable | — |
| Browser Extensions Available(count) | 7 major browser extensions | — |
| Supported Platforms | 12+ (major platforms only) | — |
| Devices Supported Simultaneously(devices) | 6 simultaneous connections | — |
| Annual Subscription Price(USD) | $3.99/month | — |
| Open-Source Code Availability | Partial (selected components) | — |
| Open-Source Client | No (proprietary) | — |
| Countries with Presence(countries) | 111 | — |
| Latest Security Audit Year | 2022 (PwC) | — |
| Free Tier Monthly Data(GB) | None | — |
| Total Server Count(servers) | 5,800+ | — |
| Customer Rating (Trustpilot)(out of 5.0) | 4.4 | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | 7 days | — |
| Total VPN Server Count(servers) | 6,000 | — |
| Countries Available(countries) | 111 | — |
| Customer Support Hours(hours/week) | 24/7 live chat and email | — |
| Global Server Network Size(servers) | 6,000+ | — |
| Transparency Report Frequency(per year) | Annual (1x/year) | — |
| Primary Protocol | NordLynx (WireGuard-based) | — |
SSurfshark VPN
NordVPNMonthly Cost (Lowest Available Plan)(USD)
$2.19/month
—
Monthly Subscription Cost(USD)
$2.19
$3.99
Annual Subscription Cost(USD)
$26.28
$47.88
Monthly Cost (Discounted Plan)(USD)
$2.49/month (2-year)
—
Monthly Cost (No Commitment)(USD)
$12.95/month
—
Show 30 more attributes
Starting Monthly Price (2-year plan)(USD/month)
$3.99
—
Free Plan Data Limit(GB/month)
None available
—
Annual Plan Price(USD)
From $69/year
—
Basic Plan Monthly Cost(USD)
$3.09
—
Annual Cost (Best Plan)(USD)
$36+
—
Base Monthly Price (USD)(USD/month)
$3.09
—
Annual Price (First Year)(USD/year)
$83.43
—
Annual Subscription Cost (Best Plan)(USD)
$69.99/year (2-year plan)
—
Monthly Cost (Best Plan)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (1-Year Plan)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Price (Best Plan)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Annual Cost(USD)
$47.88
—
Monthly Price (Annual Plan)(USD)
$3.99
—
Annual Plan Price(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Price (Annual Commitment)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (Annual Plan)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Annual Plan Cost (Per Month)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Plan Price(USD)
$12.99
—
Monthly Price (2-Year Plan)(USD)
$3.49/month
—
Annual Price (1-Year Plan)(USD)
$6.99/month
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (Best Rate)(USD)
$3.99
—
Annual Cost (3-year vs 2-year plans)(USD)
$47.88
—
Annual Price (Best Plan)(USD per month)
$3.99/month
—
Monthly Subscription (Best Annual Rate)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Annual Cost (Lowest Available Plan)(USD)
$47.88/year
—
Annual Plan Cost(USD/month)
$3.99
—
Month-to-Month Cost(USD/month)
$11.99
—
Monthly Subscription Price (Long-Term Plan)(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Annual Cost (12-Month Commitment)(USD)
$47.88/year
—
Monthly Subscription (Standard Plan)(USD)
$3.99
—
Server Count(servers)
3,200+
6,200+ servers
Country Coverage(countries)
100 countries
111 countries
Server Locations(countries)
111 countries
—
Global Server Count(servers)
6,500+
—
Server Count(servers)
7,200+
—
Show 7 more attributes
Global Server Count(servers)
6,400+
—
Countries with Server Presence(countries)
111 countries
—
Number of Servers(servers)
5,900+
—
Countries Covered(countries)
111 countries
—
Total Global Servers(servers)
6,500+
—
Number of VPN Servers(servers)
6,500+
—
Countries with Server Coverage(countries)
111
—
Countries Served(countries)
100 countries
111
Geographic Coverage(countries)
60+ countries
—
Simultaneous Connections Per Account(devices)
Unlimited
—
Simultaneous Connections(devices)
Unlimited
6
Streaming Service Compatibility(platforms)
10+
—
Native Streaming Box Apps
Limited
—
Simultaneous Connections(devices)
10+
—
Show 3 more attributes
Maximum Simultaneous Connections(devices)
6 devices
—
Simultaneous Device Connections(devices)
6 devices
—
Port Forwarding
Not available
—
Open Source Code
Partial (apps open-source)
Partial components only
Kill Switch Feature
Yes (all platforms)
Yes (Standard)
Primary Encryption Protocol
ChaCha20 (128-bit)
AES-256 (256-bit)
Kill Switch Protection
Yes (all platforms)
Yes, all platforms
VPN Protocols Offered
NordLynx, OpenVPN, IKEv2
—
Encryption Standards Offered(algorithms)
AES-256 (NordLynx)
—
Show 24 more attributes
Primary VPN Protocol
NordLynx (WireGuard-based)
—
Encryption Standard
AES-256
—
Independent Security Audits
Yes, regular audits
—
Kill Switch Feature
Yes, on all platforms
—
Advanced Threat Protection
Yes - Threat Protection Pro
—
Kill Switch Availability
Yes (All Plans)
—
Independent Security Audit(year)
PwC audit 2024
—
Source Code Availability
Proprietary/Closed-source
—
Kill Switch Implementation
Yes, all platforms
—
Encryption Standard
AES-256
—
Primary Encryption Standard
WireGuard with ChaCha20
—
No-Logs Audit Frequency(audits per year)
Annual (PwC)
—
Server Memory Type
SSD-based
—
Supported Encryption Protocols(protocols)
OpenVPN, WireGuard, ChaCha20, NordLynx
—
Kill Switch / Leak Protection
Yes (Threat Protection included)
—
Recent Independent Security Audit
PwC (2024)
—
Kill Switch Enabled by Default
Yes
—
Encryption Type
AES-256 Double VPN (dual layer)
—
No-Logs Certification
Yes (multiple 2022-2024)
—
Password Encryption Standard
IKEv2/IPSec or WireGuard
—
Independent Security Audits(audits)
Partial open-source, limited audits
—
Code Openness
Proprietary (audited)
—
Independent Security Audit (Latest)
Deloitte (2024)
—
Kill Switch Response Time(milliseconds)
200-500ms
—
Global Server Network(servers)
3,200+
6,500+
Server Coverage(countries)
98 countries
111 countries
Number of Servers(servers)
7200+
—
Server Storage Type(text)
Mix of disk and RAM
—
Average Download Speed(Mbps)
580 Mbps
650 Mbps
Peak Download Speed(Mbps)
950+ Mbps
—
Speed Retention Rate(%)
92%
—
Connection Speed Rating
Fastest
—
Download Speed Performance Impact(% decrease from baseline)
5.20% decrease
—
Show 9 more attributes
Download Speed(Mbps)
950 Mbps
—
Internet Speed Retention Rate(%)
92%
—
Connection Speed Performance
Faster globally
—
Average Download Speed(Mbps)
Fast (20-50 Mbps typical)
—
Average Download Speed (US Servers)(Mbps)
580 Mbps
—
Average Download Speed Loss(%)
8% slower (NordLynx/WireGuard)
—
Average Connection Speed(Mbps)
320 Mbps
—
Average Download Speed (500Mbps connection)(Mbps)
350
—
Download Speed (500 mi distance)(Mbps)
580 Mbps
—
Money-Back Guarantee Period(days)
30 days
30 days
Money-Back Guarantee(days)
30 days
—
Account Registration Required
Yes (email required)
—
Logging Policy
Strict no-logs
—
Jurisdiction Privacy Rating
Excellent - Panama
—
No-Logs Policy
Verified no-logs
—
Payment Anonymity Options
Crypto, card, PayPal
—
Show 3 more attributes
No-Logging Audit Verification
Yes (PwC audit 2024)
—
No-Logs Policy Jurisdiction
Panama (outside 5/9/14-Eyes)
—
Log Retention Policy
Strict no-logs policy
—
Netflix Unblocking Success Rate(%)
94% (verified 2025)
98%
Netflix Libraries Accessible(libraries)
30+
—
Total Streaming Services Supported(services)
10+
—
Netflix Streaming Reliability(%)
89% success rate (tested 13 regions)
—
Dark Web Monitor
Included
—
App Kill Switch Feature
Yes (app-level)
—
Dark Web Breach Monitoring
No
—
Breach Monitoring Included
No
—
US Streaming Platforms Supported(platforms)
4+ (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max verified)
—
Free Trial or Free Plan(monthly data)
None - 30-day money back only
—
Devices Supported on Free Tier(devices)
0 (Premium only)
—
Devices Supported on Premium(devices)
6 simultaneous connections
—
Privacy Jurisdiction
Panama (5/9/14 Eyes)
—
Countries Covered(count)
110+ countries
—
Country Coverage(countries)
110+
—
Total VPN Servers(servers)
6,500+
—
Server Countries(countries)
111
—
Total VPN Servers Worldwide(servers)
6,500+
—
VPN Server Locations(countries)
111 countries
—
Streaming Compatibility
Full support for major platforms
—
Maximum Password Character Support(characters)
Not applicable
—
Browser Extensions Available(count)
7 major browser extensions
—
Supported Platforms
12+ (major platforms only)
—
Devices Supported Simultaneously(devices)
6 simultaneous connections
—
Annual Subscription Price(USD)
$3.99/month
—
Open-Source Code Availability
Partial (selected components)
—
Open-Source Client
No (proprietary)
—
Countries with Presence(countries)
111
—
Latest Security Audit Year
2022 (PwC)
—
Free Tier Monthly Data(GB)
None
—
Total Server Count(servers)
5,800+
—
Customer Rating (Trustpilot)(out of 5.0)
4.4
—
Free Trial Duration(days)
7 days
—
Total VPN Server Count(servers)
6,000
—
Countries Available(countries)
111
—
Customer Support Hours(hours/week)
24/7 live chat and email
—
Global Server Network Size(servers)
6,000+
—
Transparency Report Frequency(per year)
Annual (1x/year)
—
Primary Protocol
NordLynx (WireGuard-based)
—
Pros & Cons
10 pros·4 cons across both
SV
SV
Surfshark VPN
+5-2
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections (vs 6 for competitors)
- Lowest price tier at $2.19/month with 2-year plans
- CleanWeb feature blocks ads, malware, and trackers at network level
- No-logs policy independently audited by Cure53
- 7-day free trial available without credit card requirement
Cons
- Smaller global server network (3,200 vs 6,500 for NordVPN) limits regional options
- ChaCha20 encryption is 128-bit, less robust than NordVPN's AES-256
NordVPN
+5-2
Pros
- AES-256 encryption (military-grade) stronger than Surfshark's ChaCha20
- 6,500+ servers across 111 countries for optimal geo-coverage and load distribution
- Average 650 Mbps download speeds, 12% faster than Surfshark
- Double VPN option routes traffic through two servers for enhanced anonymity
- Threat Protection feature blocks malicious sites and removes malware
Cons
- Limits connections to 6 simultaneous devices (requires multiple subscriptions for families)
- Higher base price at $3.99/month, 82% more expensive than Surfshark's entry tier
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
NordVPN averages 650 Mbps download speeds compared to Surfshark's 580 Mbps, making NordVPN approximately 12% faster. However, speed varies based on server location, your ISP, and network conditions. For most streaming and browsing, both provide sufficient speeds (minimum 50 Mbps recommended for 4K).
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Learn more about our affiliate disclosure
Wikipedia
Related Comparisons
12 more to explore
Surfshark vs NordVPN
softwareNordVPN vs ProtonVPN
softwareProton VPN vs NordVPN
productsNordVPN vs CyberGhost
productsMullvad vs NordVPN
productsDashlane vs NordVPN
softwareNordVPN vs Private Internet Access
softwareNordVPN vs AirVPN
softwareNordVPN vs IVPN
softwareNordVPN vs Windscribe
softwareSurfshark vs Mullvad VPN
softwareIPVanish vs NordVPN
software
Related Articles
5 articles
- technology2 min read
Best Streaming Services in 2026: Top Picks for Every Budget & Interest
Navigating the crowded streaming landscape in 2026 can be overwhelming. We've tested and ranked the best streaming services that offer the most value, from Netflix's massive library to budget-friendly options like Tubi, helping you cut cable and find your perfect entertainment solution.
Read article - technology2 min read
Best Live TV Streaming Services & Plans for Spring 2026: Complete Buyer's Guide
Tired of overpaying for cable? Discover the best live TV streaming services and plans for Spring 2026, including YouTube TV's new genre-based packages starting at $55/month. Our comprehensive guide breaks down pricing, channels, and features to help you cut the cord.
Read article - technology2 min read
Philo in 2026: Streaming TV Service Review, Pricing & Reddit Community Insights
Explore Philo's evolution heading into 2026, including pricing tiers, channel lineup, and how it compares to competitors like Sling TV. Discover what the r/PhiloTV Reddit community thinks about the service's current offerings and future prospects.
Read article - technology2 min read
Best US Fighter Jets 2026: Top American Combat Aircraft Ranked
Discover the most advanced US fighter jets dominating the skies in 2026. From the legendary F-22 Raptor to the versatile F-35 Lightning II, we rank America's best combat aircraft based on performance, stealth, and air superiority capabilities.
Read article - technology2 min read
Philo in 2026: Pricing, Lineup & How It Compares to Sling TV
As we head into 2026, Philo continues to position itself as an affordable streaming alternative for cable TV lovers. Discover what Philo offers, how its pricing stacks up against competitors like Sling TV, and what the Reddit community thinks about its future.
Read article
Explore More
Related comparisons and categories
Explore Entities
More Software
AI generated