164 Highlights 25 Differences 6 Reactions 0 Likes

Surfshark vs NordVPN: 164 Highlights & 25 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better

We break down key features of Surfshark and NordVPN. Find out which VPN secures your connection and streams content more smoothly. We compared Surfshark and NordVPN for people who care about intended use, target user, account sharing policy & deployment type and time-saving tools. Here’s what to know before committing.

83 Points
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
80 Points
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
vs

Highlights 175

No extras. Just what matters.
83 Points
vs
80 Points

Why is Surfshark better than NordVPN ?

Scroll down for more facts

Surfshark vs NordVPN: A Deep Dive Into Two Leading VPN Services

When choosing a VPN service, users often weigh options that offer robust privacy, solid speed, and versatile platform support. Both Surfshark and NordVPN cater to a similar audience of individuals and families with cloud-based deployment, offering strong encryption, stealth mode, and gaming-optimized servers. 

They share no-logs policies, RAM-only servers, and Tier III data centers, ensuring a high level of privacy and infrastructure quality. While both excel in streaming reliability and support major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, their notable differences in performance, account sharing policies, and customer support channels set them apart, shaping the ideal user profile for each.

Why Surfshark Stands Out for Budget-Savvy and Flexible Users

Surfshark shines as an accessible option for users who prize affordability without compromising on essential security features. Priced impressively at $0 at App Store on iOS, and competitively low ($1.70 per month via its official site), it represents excellent value. Unlike its competitor, Surfshark permits account sharing, making it a go-to for families and shared user scenarios.

From a security perspective, Surfshark features a key exchange system utilizing ECDHE and RSA, combined with a stealth mode and a kill switch to guard user data. Its periodic third-party audits help maintain transparency and trust. Moreover, Surfshark offers broader platform compatibility, including support for routers and a notable feature: a browser extension, which NordVPN currently lacks. This flexibility enhances Surfshark's appeal for users seeking seamless multi-device coverage.

Performance-wise, Surfshark boasts regional speed optimization and smart routing with a moderate peak speed of 550 Mbps and a lower latency impact of 15 ms, an advantage for those prioritizing smooth gaming and streaming over raw speed. Besides, Surfshark's extensive feature set includes automation scripts, custom DNS, mesh networking, and per-app rules, aligning with the needs of tech enthusiasts and power users alike.

The Strengths NordVPN Brings to Power and Enterprise Use

NordVPN positions itself as a premium VPN service aimed at users who demand cutting-edge speed and compliance standards. Its peak speed performance reaches an impressive 900 Mbps, substantially outpacing Surfshark's offering, though accompanied by a slightly increased latency of 20 ms. This makes NordVPN especially attractive for users engaged in high-bandwidth activities like 4K streaming or extensive cloud gaming sessions.

Security-wise, NordVPN further strengthens the protocol suite by supporting an additional Diffie-Hellman key exchange and complies with rigorous standards, including ISO 27001 certification, a badge of enhanced regulatory compliance. Its annual comprehensive audits underpin a strong commitment to security transparency.

NordVPN's server infrastructure is entirely owned, granting it more control over hardware and potential security concerns, as opposed to Surfshark's hybrid ownership. This can be a decisive factor for enterprise users or privacy advocates concerned about server management.

Another highlight is NordVPN's customer support, offering a robust array of communication channels, including phone support with an instant response guarantee. This kind of support responsiveness is valuable for businesses and time-sensitive users who can't afford delays.

Although NordVPN does not provide a browser extension, its overall device compatibility, including all major operating systems and smart TVs, remains comprehensive. Its price, while higher at $3.09 per month, is justified by advanced features, strong compliance, and a free trial offering, which can reassure new subscribers hesitant about commitment.

Quick Take

Surfshark delivers exceptional value through flexible use policies and broad platform support, including browser extensions, making it a favorite among families and casual users. NordVPN, on the other hand, shines in delivering superior speeds, enhanced regulatory compliance, and top-tier customer support, ideal for tech experts and business users.

Bottom Line

Choosing between Surfshark and NordVPN comes down to what you prioritize. Surfshark offers an affordable, feature-rich VPN with strong privacy protections and multi-device compatibility, ideal for everyday users or families looking for flexibility and value. Meanwhile, NordVPN commands a premium for unmatched performance speeds, corporate-grade compliance, and comprehensive support services, making it the top choice for professionals and those requiring stringent security assurance.

Verdict

  • Winner: NordVPN - Best for users who prioritize high-speed performance, enterprise-grade compliance, and comprehensive customer support.
  • Runner-up: Surfshark - Outstanding option for budget-conscious users needing flexible account sharing and wider platform/browser extension support.

Comparisons 60

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

Related comparisons 60

Because one duel is never enough.

Comparisons & Facts 175

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

Which tool gets it right — Surfshark or NordVPN? Dive into this comprehensive vpn feature battle and let the specs speak for themselves.

General Information 12

Intended Use

What is this VPN mainly used for?

57 Surfshark 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, Gaming

55 NordVPN 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Intended Use

Both Surfshark and NordVPN are intended for Privacy, Security, Streaming, and P2P. Additionally, Surfshark supports Gaming explicitly. Gamers might lean towards Surfshark for its broader use case.

Describes the main use cases supported.

Account Sharing Policy

Is account sharing allowed?

97 Surfshark 1 Votes Allowed

45 NordVPN 0 Votes Restricted

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Account Sharing Policy

Surfshark allows Account Sharing freely, while NordVPN restricts it. Users seeking flexible account sharing will prefer Surfshark, whereas NordVPN suits users needing stricter account control.

Defines rules around sharing accounts.

I like that Surfshark allows account sharing which is super convenient for families or friends sharing a subscription.

See more

Regulatory Compliance Statement

What regulations does it comply with?

82 Surfshark 0 Votes GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR

76 NordVPN 0 Votes GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR, ISO 27001

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Regulatory Compliance Statement

Regarding Regulatory Compliance Statement, Surfshark complies with GDPR, CCPA, and UK GDPR, while NordVPN adds ISO 27001 to these. NordVPN offers broader compliance, making it more suitable for users requiring rigorous international standards.

Stated compliance with data protection regulations.

Target User

Who is this VPN designed for?

62 Surfshark 0 Votes Individual, Family

63 NordVPN 0 Votes Individual, Family, Team

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Target User

For the Target User specification, Surfshark appeals to Individuals and Families, while NordVPN caters to Individuals, Families, and Teams. NordVPN is more suitable for businesses or collaborative environments, whereas Surfshark fits personal and family use better.

Identifies the primary audience.

Deployment Type

What is the deployment type?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes Cloud-Based

85 NordVPN 0 Votes Cloud-Based

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Deployment Type

Both Surfshark and NordVPN use a Cloud-Based deployment type. This similarity indicates comparable infrastructure flexibility and scaling properties in their services.

How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.

VPN Service Type

What type of VPN service is offered?

27 Surfshark 0 Votes Consumer VPN

25 NordVPN 0 Votes Consumer VPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service type is consumer-focused, designed primarily for individual and household use.

Indicates the primary service classification.

Release Year

When was this VPN first released?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 2018

67 NordVPN 0 Votes 2012

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service was released in 2018, indicating experience and a matured product.

Year the VPN service was first released.

Service Model

What service model does the VPN use?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Subscription-Based

65 NordVPN 0 Votes Subscription-Based

Surfshark
Surfshark

The service operates on a subscription-based model, which means users pay periodically to maintain access and updates.

Business and access model used to provide the VPN service.

Supported Devices Count

How many devices are supported?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

65 NordVPN 0 Votes 7–10 Devices

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN supports unlimited devices per account, accommodating users with many gadgets.

Maximum number of devices supported per account.

Platform Category

Which platform categories are supported?

71 Surfshark 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

69 NordVPN 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

Indicates supported platform categories.

Simultaneous Connections

How many simultaneous connections are allowed?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

Number of devices that can connect at the same time.

Service Availability

Where is the service available?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Global

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Global

Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.

Security & Encryption 24

Key Exchange Method

How are encryption keys exchanged?

77 Surfshark 0 Votes ECDHE, RSA

72 NordVPN 0 Votes RSA, ECDHE, Diffie-Hellman

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Key Exchange Method

Surfshark supports ECDHE and RSA key exchange methods, whereas NordVPN adds Diffie-Hellman to these. The inclusion of Diffie-Hellman may offer NordVPN users enhanced cryptographic flexibility.

Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.

Third-Party Audit Availability

Are third-party audits available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Third-Party Audit Availability

Third-Party Audit Availability is confirmed as Yes for both Surfshark and NordVPN, suggesting both emphasize external security validation and trust.

Availability of external audit reports.

Kill Switch

Is a kill switch available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Kill Switch

Both Surfshark and NordVPN incorporate a Kill Switch feature, ensuring user data security by cutting off the connection if the VPN drops unexpectedly.

Blocks traffic if VPN connection drops.

Stealth Mode

Is stealth mode available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Stealth Mode

Stealth Mode is supported by both Surfshark and NordVPN. This feature enables users to bypass VPN blocks, suitable for regions with strict internet censorship.

Hides VPN usage from detection systems.

Audit Frequency

How often are audits done?

77 Surfshark 0 Votes Periodic

64 NordVPN 0 Votes Annual

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Audit Frequency

Audit Frequency varies: Surfshark conducts periodic audits while NordVPN schedules annual audits. Surfshark's periodic auditing may provide more frequent security checks.

How often audits are performed.

Encryption Standard

What encryption standard is used?

72 Surfshark 0 Votes AES, ChaCha20

65 NordVPN 0 Votes AES

NordVPN
NordVPN

The VPN uses AES encryption standard, a widely recognized and robust method for securing data transmission.

Specifies the primary encryption algorithms used.

Encryption Strength

What encryption strength is used?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes AES-256

85 NordVPN 0 Votes AES-256

Surfshark
Surfshark

Encryption strength uses AES-256, a robust encryption cipher standard for secure VPN connections.

Level and type of encryption used to secure data.

VPN Protocols Supported

Which VPN protocols are supported?

79 Surfshark 0 Votes OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2

85 NordVPN 0 Votes WireGuard

Surfshark
Surfshark

Supported VPN protocols include OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, covering a range of compatibility, security, and performance options.

Lists all supported VPN protocols.

Default Protocol

What protocol is used by default?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes WireGuard

75 NordVPN 0 Votes OpenVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

The default VPN protocol is WireGuard, favored for its speed and modern encryption.

Protocol used by default.

IPv6 Leak Protection

Is IPv6 leak protection supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

IPv6 leak protection present to safeguard against accidental exposure of the user's IPv6 address, reinforcing privacy.

Prevents IPv6 traffic leaks.

Firewall Integration

Does it integrate with a firewall?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

Firewall integration enables the VPN to work seamlessly with existing firewall setups for enhanced protection.

Integrates firewall rules for traffic control.

Obfuscation Technology

Is traffic obfuscation supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

Obfuscation technology conceals VPN traffic to evade censorship and VPN blocks.

Masks VPN traffic to bypass censorship.

Privacy & Logging Policy 18

RAM-Only Servers

Are RAM-only servers used?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
RAM-Only Servers

Surfshark and NordVPN both use RAM-Only Servers, enhancing data security by not storing information on physical drives and reducing data retention risks.

Indicates use of volatile memory servers.

Logging Policy Type

What is the logging policy type?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes No-Logs

95 NordVPN 0 Votes No-Logs

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Logging Policy Type

Both Surfshark and NordVPN maintain a No-Logs policy, meaning neither records user activity logs, which is crucial for privacy-conscious users.

Describes the overall logging stance.

Connection Logs

Are connection logs stored?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes NordVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Connection Logs

Surfshark does not log Connection Logs, but NordVPN's connection log status is unavailable, creating uncertainty over NordVPN's connection data recording policies. Surfshark is more transparent here.

Indicates logging of connection metadata.

Metadata Logs

Are metadata logs collected?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes NordVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Metadata Logs

Surfshark confirms no Metadata Logs, while NordVPN's metadata log information is unavailable, giving Surfshark an edge in transparent metadata handling.

Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.

User Data Deletion Policy

Can users delete their data?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
User Data Deletion Policy

Both Surfshark and NordVPN apply User Data Deletion Policies, emphasizing user privacy by allowing removal of personal data upon request.

Indicates if users can request data deletion.

Warrant Canary

Is a warrant canary published?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Warrant canary availability means the VPN provider signals if they have received government requests for data, promoting transparency.

Indicates presence of a warrant canary.

CCPA Compliance

Is CCPA compliance stated?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

CCPA compliance confirms adherence to California Consumer Privacy Act regulations, strengthening user privacy protections.

Indicates compliance with CCPA.

Privacy Certification

Does it have privacy certifications?

47 Surfshark 0 Votes ISO 27001, TRUSTe

65 NordVPN 0 Votes ISO 27001, ISO 27701

Surfshark
Surfshark

Privacy certifications include ISO 27001 and TRUSTe, indicating adherence to internationally recognized privacy and security standards.

Privacy or security certifications held by the provider.

Activity Logs

Are activity logs stored?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes NordVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates whether user activity is logged.

IP Address Logging

Are IP addresses logged?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes NordVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.

Timestamp Logging

Are timestamps logged?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes NordVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates logging of session timestamps.

Bandwidth Usage Logging

Is bandwidth usage logged?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes NordVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.

Network & Server Infrastructure 20

Gaming Optimized Servers

Are gaming servers available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Gaming Optimized Servers

Gaming Optimized Servers are available on both Surfshark and NordVPN, benefiting gamers who require low latency and stable connections.

Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.

Server Ownership

Who owns the servers?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Hybrid

85 NordVPN 1 Votes Owned

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Server Ownership

Surfshark uses a Hybrid Server Ownership model, while NordVPN owns its servers outright. NordVPN's ownership offers tighter control over hardware and security.

Describes who controls the servers.

For security reasons I prefer NordVPN since they own all their servers while Surfshark uses a hybrid setup.

See more

Bandwidth Capacity

What is the bandwidth capacity?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Bandwidth Capacity

Bandwidth Capacity is Unlimited on both Surfshark and NordVPN, making them suitable for heavy users needing unrestricted data transfer.

Overall bandwidth capability of the network.

Throttling Policy

Is bandwidth throttled?

17 Surfshark 0 Votes No Throttling

15 NordVPN 0 Votes No Throttling

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Throttling Policy

Both Surfshark and NordVPN have a No Throttling policy, allowing unlimited bandwidth use without intentional speed restrictions, ideal for data-heavy activities.

Describes bandwidth throttling rules.

Total City Coverage

How many cities are covered?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 200+

85 NordVPN 0 Votes 200+

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total city coverage exceeds 200 cities, ensuring extensive geographic reach and more options for optimal performance.

NordVPN
NordVPN

Total city coverage exceeds 200 cities, offering users extensive options for connecting close to their location or to specific locations worldwide.

Number of cities with VPN servers.

Total Server Count

How many servers are available?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 3000+

95 NordVPN 0 Votes 3000+

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total server count exceeds 3000, indicating a large network with many options for users worldwide.

Approximate total number of servers available.

Total Country Coverage

How many countries are covered?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 90+

95 NordVPN 0 Votes 90+

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total country coverage extends beyond 90 countries, providing worldwide server options and global access.

Number of countries with server presence.

Smart Location Selection

Is smart location selection available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Smart location selection enables automatic choice of the optimal server based on criteria like speed and distance for the best connection.

Automatically selects optimal servers.

Network Uptime SLA

Is there an uptime SLA?

64 Surfshark 0 Votes 99.9%

62 NordVPN 0 Votes 99.9%

NordVPN
NordVPN

The network uptime Service Level Agreement guarantees 99.9% availability, showcasing reliable and continuous VPN service accessibility.

Guaranteed network uptime level.

Server Location Type

Are server locations physical or virtual?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Mixed

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Mixed

Indicates how server locations are implemented.

Data Center Tier

What data center tier is used?

47 Surfshark 0 Votes Tier III

45 NordVPN 0 Votes Tier III

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Data Center Tier

Both use Data Center Tier III facilities, indicating high-reliability infrastructure with redundant systems to ensure uptime and security.

Indicates data center reliability level.

Load Balancing

Is load balancing supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Distributes traffic evenly across servers.

Performance & Speed 14

Latency Impact

How much latency does the VPN add?

15 ms 1 Votes
Surfshark
20 ms 0 Votes
NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Latency Impact

Latency Impact is lower with Surfshark at 15 ms compared to NordVPN's 20 ms. The 5 ms lower latency may benefit users sensitive to delays, like gamers.

Additional latency introduced by the VPN.

Surfshark's lower latency impact at 15 ms makes gaming way smoother for me compared to NordVPN's 20 ms.

See more

Peak Speed Performance

What is the peak speed performance?

550 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark
900 Mbps 1 Votes
NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Peak Speed Performance

In Peak Speed Performance, NordVPN offers 900 Mbps, significantly higher than Surfshark's 550 Mbps. Users seeking top speeds should prefer NordVPN.

Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.

NordVPN's peak speed of 900 Mbps makes it a no-brainer for me as I stream a lot in 4K and need that extra speed.

See more

Regional Speed Optimization

Is regional speed optimization supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Regional Speed Optimization

Both VPNs provide Regional Speed Optimization, improving connection speeds based on user location. This helps deliver smoother streaming and gaming experiences.

Optimizes speeds by geographic region.

Smart Routing

Is smart routing used?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Smart Routing

Smart Routing is featured on both Surfshark and NordVPN, enabling optimal traffic paths to reduce latency and improve connection reliability.

Routes traffic through optimal paths.

Performance Analytics

Are performance analytics available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Performance Analytics

Performance Analytics are supported by both Surfshark and NordVPN, enabling continuous monitoring and optimization of service speed and stability.

Provides performance monitoring insights.

Speed Consistency

How consistent are the speeds?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

95 NordVPN 0 Votes High

Surfshark
Surfshark

Speed consistency is rated high, indicating stable and reliable connection speeds over time.

NordVPN
NordVPN

Speed consistency is rated High, meaning users can expect stable connection speeds without significant fluctuation, important for streaming and gaming.

Stability of speeds over time.

Average Download Speed

What is the average download speed?

480 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark
500 Mbps 0 Votes
NordVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

Average download speed of 480 Mbps provides fast data transfer, supporting HD streaming and bulk downloads.

Typical downstream speed when connected to the VPN.

Average Upload Speed

What is the average upload speed?

420 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark
450 Mbps 0 Votes
NordVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

The average upload speed is 420 Mbps, suitable for high-quality video calls and fast file uploads.

Typical upstream speed when using the VPN.

Congestion Handling

How is congestion handled?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

The VPN includes congestion handling features to maintain performance even when network traffic is high, ensuring smooth and consistent connectivity.

Manages performance during peak loads.

Speed Throttling

Is speed throttling applied?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.

Protocol Speed Optimization

Are protocols optimized for speed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Optimizes protocol choice for speed.

Auto Server Selection Speed

Does it auto-select the fastest server?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Automatically selects fastest servers.

Platform & Device Support 13

OS Version Compatibility

Which OS versions are supported?

78 Surfshark 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

84 NordVPN 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
OS Version Compatibility

Surfshark supports a wider range of OS versions including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Router compatibility, while NordVPN supports all except router explicitly listed with commas. Surfshark offers broader OS support.

Operating systems and platforms supported.

Browser Extension

Are browser extensions available?

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Browser Extension

Surfshark provides Browser Extension support whereas NordVPN does not. Users wanting browser-based VPN control will find Surfshark more convenient.

Indicates availability of browser extensions.

I gotta go with Surfshark because of the browser extension support, which NordVPN sadly doesn't have.

See more

Smart TV

Are smart TVs supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
Smart TV

Smart TV support is present in both Surfshark and NordVPN, enabling seamless VPN usage on large-screen streaming devices.

Indicates support for smart TV platforms.

CLI Support

Is CLI support available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
CLI Support

CLI Support is available on both Surfshark and NordVPN, helpful for advanced users who prefer command-line interface controls.

Indicates command-line interface availability.

IoT Device Compatibility

Are IoT devices compatible?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
vs
NordVPN
IoT Device Compatibility

Both Surfshark and NordVPN support IoT Device Compatibility, facilitating secure connections for smart home devices.

Indicates compatibility with IoT devices.

Browser Types Supported

Which browsers are supported?

85 Surfshark 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera

82 NordVPN 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera

Surfshark
Surfshark

Browser types supported include Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera, enabling VPN use directly through popular browsers.

NordVPN
NordVPN

The VPN supports major browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera, providing easy integration and protection for web browsing activities.

Lists supported browser types.

ARM Architecture

Are ARM devices supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

ARM architecture support suggests the VPN can run efficiently on devices with ARM processors, such as many smartphones and tablets, ensuring broader device compatibility.

Indicates support for ARM-based devices.

Gaming Console

Are gaming consoles supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.

Manual Configuration

Is manual configuration supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Allows manual VPN setup.

App Interface Consistency

Is the app interface consistent?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Consistent

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Consistent

Consistency of UI across platforms.

Cross-Platform Sync

Is cross-platform sync available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Syncs settings across devices.

Device Management Dashboard

Is there a device management dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Centralized device management interface.

Features & Functionality 24

Mesh Networking

Is mesh networking supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Mesh networking support ensures devices can connect directly in a mesh configuration through the VPN, enhancing network flexibility.

Connects devices in a private mesh network.

API Access

Is API access available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

API access is available, facilitating integration with other software or automated management of the VPN service.

Provides programmatic API access.

Per-App Rules

Can rules be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Per-app rules enabled allow users to specify which applications use the VPN connection and which access the internet directly, providing granular control over network behavior.

Applies VPN rules per application.

Custom DNS

Can custom DNS be configured?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Allows use of custom DNS resolvers.

Automation Scripts

Are automation scripts supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Allows use of automation scripts.

Custom Routing Rules

Can routing rules be customized?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

Custom routing rules allow users to define specific paths for traffic, enhancing control and performance optimization.

NordVPN
NordVPN

Custom routing rules allow the user to configure VPN traffic routes according to specific requirements, enhancing network management.

Allows advanced routing customization.

Split Tunneling

Is split tunneling supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Split tunneling is supported, allowing users to decide which applications or traffic go through the VPN and which do not, improving performance and privacy.

Allows selective routing of traffic outside the VPN.

LAN Access

Is LAN access allowed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

LAN access when connected allows users to interact with devices on the local network behind the VPN.

Allows access to local network devices.

Automation Support

Is automation supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

Automation support allows users to integrate VPN usage with other automated workflows and scripts.

Supports automation via integrations or scripts.

Scheduled Connections

Can connections be scheduled?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Scheduled connections enabled means users can automate their VPN connections to start or stop at specific times, enhancing convenience and security.

Allows VPN connections on a schedule.

Per-Profile Settings

Are per-profile settings available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Per-profile settings feature means multiple user profiles can have customized configurations, ideal for shared devices or varied user needs.

Allows separate settings per user profile.

App-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Allows split tunneling by application.

Streaming, Gaming & P2P Support 9

Streaming Platform Support

Which streaming platforms are supported?

84 Surfshark 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

82 NordVPN 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

Surfshark
Surfshark

Streaming platforms supported include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, ensuring broad access to popular services securely through the VPN.

Streaming platforms that the VPN can reliably unblock and support.

Cloud Gaming

Does it support cloud gaming?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Support for cloud gaming is included. This means the VPN is optimized to provide low-latency and stable connections suitable for gaming through cloud services.

Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.

4K Streaming

Is 4K streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.

Torrenting Policy

Is torrenting allowed?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Allowed

Defines torrenting rules.

HD Streaming

Is HD streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

HD streaming capability means users can enjoy high-definition video content without buffering interruptions when connected through the VPN.

Indicates support for HD streaming quality.

Streaming Reliability

How reliable is streaming access?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

95 NordVPN 0 Votes High

Consistency of streaming access over time.

Gaming Latency Optimization

Is gaming latency optimized?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.

P2P File Sharing

Is P2P file sharing allowed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.

Port Selection for P2P

Can ports be selected for P2P?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Allows port selection for P2P traffic.

Account, Access & Management 10

Multi-User Profiles

Can multiple user profiles be created?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Allows multiple user profiles under one account.

Sub-Account

Are sub-accounts supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.

Access Control Levels

Are access control levels available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Supports different permission levels.

Session Management

Can active sessions be managed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Allows viewing and managing active sessions.

Login History Visibility

Is login history visible?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Shows login and access history.

Device Revocation

Can devices be revoked remotely?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Device revocation enabled means users can remotely remove devices from their VPN account, enhancing security when devices are lost or sold.

Allows removal of connected devices remotely.

User Account Dashboard

Is there a user account dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Provides a central interface for managing the account.

Team or Family Plans

Are team or family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates availability of shared plans.

Password Policy

How strong is the password policy?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong

85 NordVPN 0 Votes Very Strong

Rules for password complexity and security.

Two-Factor Authentication

Is two-factor authentication available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Adds an extra layer of account security.

Customer Support & Documentation 8

Response Time SLA

What is the response time SLA?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

95 NordVPN 1 Votes Instant

NordVPN
NordVPN

Response time SLA is Instant, indicating immediate response to customer inquiries or technical issues, which is crucial for timely support.

Expected support response time.

NordVPN's instant response time for support is clutch, especially when I hit VPN issues and need quick help.

See more

Support Channels

What support channels are available?

64 Surfshark 0 Votes Live Chat, Email, Ticket

63 NordVPN 0 Votes Live Chat, Email, Ticket, Phone

Lists available customer support channels.

Knowledge Base

Is there a knowledge base?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.

API Documentation

Is API documentation available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Provides documentation for API usage.

Community Forum

Is there a community forum?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates presence of a user community forum.

Setup Guides

Are setup guides available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Setup guides are provided to assist users in installing and configuring the VPN effectively.

Provides step-by-step setup instructions.

Video Tutorials

Are video tutorials available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.

Support Language Coverage

What support languages are available?

52 Surfshark 0 Votes English, Multi-language

32 NordVPN 0 Votes English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese, Multi-language

Languages supported by customer service.

Billing, Plans & Trials 12

Free Trial Availability

Is a free trial available?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates whether a free trial is offered.

Trial Duration

How long is the free trial?

7 days 0 Votes
Surfshark
7 days 0 Votes
NordVPN

Length of the free trial period.

Payment Methods Supported

What payment methods are supported?

60 Surfshark 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency, Gift Card

58 NordVPN 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency, Gift Card

Supported payment methods.

Plan Flexibility

How flexible are the plans?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

95 NordVPN 0 Votes High

Ease of changing plans.

Business Plan Availability

Are business plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates availability of business plans.

Auto-Renewal

Is auto-renewal enabled?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

NordVPN
NordVPN

Auto-renewal enabled helps maintain uninterrupted VPN service by automatically renewing the subscription at the end of the current period.

Indicates whether subscriptions auto-renew.

Subscription Length Options

What subscription lengths are available?

64 Surfshark 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

62 NordVPN 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

Available subscription durations.

Money-Back Guarantee

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.

Refund Period

What is the refund period?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes 30 Days

65 NordVPN 0 Votes 30 Days

Time window for requesting refunds.

Anonymous Payment

Are anonymous payments supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Allows anonymous payment methods.

Plan Change Policy

What is the plan change policy?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

Policy governing whether users can upgrade or downgrade their subscription plans.

Family Plan Availability

Are family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Indicates availability of family plans.

Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11

Public Reputation

What is the public reputation?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Excellent

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Excellent

NordVPN
NordVPN

The VPN holds an Excellent public reputation, reflecting its strong performance, reliability, and user trust in the industry.

Overall public perception.

Audit Transparency

Are audit reports public?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Publishes full audit reports.

Jurisdiction Clarity

Is jurisdiction clearly stated?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Clearly states legal jurisdiction.

No-Log Claim Credibility

Is the no-logs claim credible?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Credibility of no-logs claims.

Service Uptime

What is the service uptime?

99.9 % 0 Votes
Surfshark
99.9 % 0 Votes
NordVPN

Average service availability over time.

Downtime Transparency

Are downtimes disclosed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.

Independent Security Audits

Are independent audits conducted?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Undergoes third-party security audits.

Company Transparency

Is company ownership transparent?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Discloses ownership and leadership.

Transparency Reports

Are transparency reports published?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes NordVPN

Publishes government request reports.

Third-Party Review Presence

Does the VPN have third-party reviews?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong Presence

95 NordVPN 0 Votes Strong Presence

Indicates whether the VPN service is actively reviewed on independent third-party platforms.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Performance

How would you rate the overall performance of this VPN?

Very fast — Under 2 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Fast — 2 to 4 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Average speed — 4 to 6 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Slow — 6 to 10 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Very slow — Over 10 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

Ease of Setup

How easy is it to set up this VPN?

Very easy — Takes under 5 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Easy — Takes 5 to 10 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Average — Takes 10 to 15 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Hard — Takes 15 to 30 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Very hard — Takes over 30 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

User Interface

How would you describe the usability of this VPN's interface?

Very intuitive — Easy to navigate and use
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Easy to use — Clear and simple interface
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Average — Some features may be difficult to navigate
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Hard to use — Complex layout, hard to understand
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Very hard to use — Frustrating interface
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

Connection Stability

How stable is the connection when using this VPN?

Very stable — Rare disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Stable — Occasional disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Average stability — Frequent minor disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Unstable — Regular disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Very unstable — Almost always disconnects
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

Security Features

How would you rate the security features of this VPN?

Top-notch security — Includes features like 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and kill switch
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Great security — Includes strong encryption and basic protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Average security — Standard encryption, basic protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Weak security — Limited encryption and few protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Poor security — No encryption or protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

Device Compatibility

How well does this VPN work across different devices?

Excellent compatibility — Works on all devices without issues
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Good compatibility — Works on most devices with few issues
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Average compatibility — Works on some devices, limited support
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Poor compatibility — Works only on specific devices
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Very limited compatibility — Works on very few devices
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

Speed During Use

How fast is your internet connection when using this VPN?

Very fast — No noticeable decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Fast — Slight decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Average speed — Moderate decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Slow — Significant decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Very slow — Extremely slow, hard to use
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

Customer Support

How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?

Exceptional — Quick responses, helpful solutions
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Good — Support is helpful and timely
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Average — Support is okay but may take some time
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Poor — Long wait times and incomplete solutions
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Very poor — No helpful support, slow responses
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

Design Appeal

How would you rate the design appeal of this VPN's interface?

Very appealing — Modern, clean, and visually pleasing
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Appealing — Simple and easy on the eyes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Average — Nothing special, functional but basic
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Unappealing — Outdated and unattractive
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Very unappealing — Difficult to look at
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

Pricing

How would you rate the price of this VPN compared to its features?

Great value for money — Worth every penny
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Pretty good price — Good balance of features and cost
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Fair deal — Reasonable for the features provided
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Kinda pricey — Higher cost than expected
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN
Crazy expensive — Far too expensive for what it offers
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
NordVPN

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
0 / 5 0 Reviews
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
NordVPN
0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions 0

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards 4

Only the best made it here.
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