Surfshark vs PureVPN: 170 Highlights & 53 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better
Explore streaming platform support to find which VPN delivers smoother access to your favorite shows and movies. We compared Surfshark and PureVPN for people who care about intended use, account sharing policy, deployment type & regulatory compliance statement and time-saving tools. Here’s what to know before committing.
Supermod
Moderator
Highlights 175
No extras. Just what matters.Why is Surfshark better than PureVPN ?
Recaptor
Surfshark vs PureVPN: A Comprehensive VPN Showdown
In the world of VPN services, both Surfshark and PureVPN offer robust solutions aimed at protecting your online privacy and enhancing your digital experience. They share essential features like cloud-based deployment, no-logs privacy policies, multiple device support, high streaming reliability, and stringent security protocols, including stealth mode and kill switches.
However, beneath these surface similarities lie critical differences that can sway your choice; from Surfshark's stronger privacy compliance and gaming-optimized servers to PureVPN's appeal to business users and its higher peak speed. Let's dive deeper into their general capabilities, security measures, performance attributes, and unique functionalities to help you decide which VPN best fits your needs.
Why Surfshark Appeals to Privacy-Focused Families and Gamers
Surfshark excels as a privacy-centric VPN designed with individual and family use in mind. It stands out due to its strict compliance with key global privacy regulations, including GDPR, CCPA, and UK GDPR, providing users with strong legal assurances about their data. Both Surfshark and PureVPN implement periodic independent audits verifying their no-logging claims. Still, Surfshark's openness about audit transparency and a clean legal track record builds more trust among privacy advocates.
One of Surfshark's strong suits lies in its gaming-optimized servers, which contribute to a low latency impact of just 15 ms, enhancing seamless gameplay. Alongside this, Surfshark offers performance analytics and smart routing technologies designed to boost server efficiency regionally, optimizing speed and connection stability even with its peak speed capped at 550 Mbps.
When it comes to versatility, Surfshark features advanced tools like automation scripts, mesh networking, and API access, which are rare in typical consumer VPNs and particularly beneficial for users who seek customizability and network resilience. Additionally, its account management features are comprehensive, including login history visibility, multi-user profiles, and detailed access control, granting families and small teams greater control over account usage.
For connectivity, Surfshark supports all major platforms from Windows to IoT devices and smart TVs, with CLI support and browser extensions to enhance user convenience across devices. Its acceptance of a wide variety of payment methods, including gift cards, adds privacy for users who prefer anonymous transactions.
PureVPN: The Business-Friendly Speed Demon
PureVPN directs attention toward both individual users and business customers, broadening its market appeal. Unlike Surfshark, it currently lacks stated regulatory compliance, such as GDPR or CCPA. Still, it maintains a strict no-logs policy with RAM-only servers and routine audits, offering a sound security baseline.
The hallmark of PureVPN is its impressive peak speed of 800 Mbps, which outpaces Surfshark's peak by a noticeable margin. Although this comes with a slightly higher latency impact at 20 ms, it suggests PureVPN can handle high-bandwidth tasks like 4K streaming and torrenting efficiently. Plus, it embraces regional speed optimization and smart routing to enhance connection speed and reliability, despite lacking performance analytics for granular insights.
While PureVPN misses some of Surfshark's advanced networking features, such as automation scripts, mesh networking, and API capabilities, it does provide essential functions like custom DNS and per-app rules settings that help tailor security and connectivity at the application level.
On the management front, PureVPN supports account sub-accounts and session management but lacks deeper administrative tools like login history, access controls, and multi-user profiles, which might limit its appeal for more complex user setups. Customer support is straightforward with live chat and email channels, though the absence of a community forum and API documentation means fewer self-help and developer resources.
PureVPN's free trial availability offers a risk-free way for potential users to test the service. At the same time, its broad device compatibility, from major operating systems to smart TVs and IoT devices, ensures flexible usage across digital environments.
Quick Take
Surfshark shines with its strong privacy compliance, nuanced account controls, and unique networking features that offer a secure, user-friendly experience tailored for families and gamers. PureVPN matches up with blazing peak speeds, business-oriented plans, and a free trial, making it a prime choice for users who want raw speed and essential VPN functions without extra bells and whistles.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, Surfshark's superior regulatory compliance, privacy transparency, and feature richness make it the top recommendation for most users seeking a reliable and versatile VPN. PureVPN remains a solid pick for users prioritizing high peak performance and business flexibility, ty but comes with trade-offs in privacy control and advanced functionality that might deter privacy-conscious customers.
Verdict
- Winner: Surfshark - For its comprehensive privacy compliance, advanced features like automation and mesh networking, enhanced account management, and trusted reputation.
- Runner-up: PureVPN - For delivering higher peak speeds, business plan support, and a free trial option, though it lacks some advanced privacy and user management tools.
Comparisons 35
Two enter. One leaves your cart.Price comparisons
Surfshark
PureVPN
Related comparisons 35
Because one duel is never enough.
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Comparisons & Facts 175
Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.Wondering which tool suits you best? This full vpn breakdown compares Surfshark vs PureVPN on what actually matters — features, value, and speed.
General Information 12
Regulatory Compliance Statement
What regulations does it comply with?
82 Surfshark 1 Votes GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR
0 PureVPN 0 Votes None
vs
Regulatory Compliance Statement
Surfshark complies with GDPR, CCPA, and UK GDPR, offering stronger regulatory assurance. PureVPN has no stated regulatory compliance. For users prioritizing privacy regulations, Surfshark is the better choice.
Stated compliance with data protection regulations.
I really like how Surfshark hits all the major privacy laws including GDPR and CCPA. That kind of compliance just feels safer to me personally.
Intended Use
What is this VPN mainly used for?
57 Surfshark 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, Gaming
52 PureVPN 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, Gaming, P2P, Business
vs
Intended Use
Surfshark supports Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, and Gaming, while PureVPN adds Business use to that list. PureVPN may better fit users needing VPN services for business purposes.
Describes the main use cases supported.
Account Sharing Policy
Is account sharing allowed?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed
93 PureVPN 0 Votes Allowed
vs
Account Sharing Policy
Both Surfshark and PureVPN allow account sharing, enabling multiple users to use a single subscription. This shared flexibility suits families or teams looking for shared access.
Defines rules around sharing accounts.
Deployment Type
What is the deployment type?
87 Surfshark 0 Votes Cloud-Based
83 PureVPN 0 Votes Cloud-Based
vs
Deployment Type
Both Surfshark and PureVPN are cloud-based deployment types, providing scalable and flexible VPN solutions without on-premises infrastructure.
How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.
VPN Service Type
What type of VPN service is offered?
27 Surfshark 0 Votes Consumer VPN
23 PureVPN 0 Votes Consumer VPN
Surfshark
The VPN service type is consumer-focused, designed primarily for individual and household use.
PureVPN
This is a consumer VPN, designed primarily for individual and personal use.
Indicates the primary service classification.
Release Year
When was this VPN first released?
87 Surfshark 0 Votes 2018
33 PureVPN 0 Votes 2007
Surfshark
The VPN service was released in 2018, indicating experience and a matured product.
PureVPN
The VPN service was released in the year 2007, indicating extensive experience in the market.
Year the VPN service was first released.
Service Model
What service model does the VPN use?
67 Surfshark 0 Votes Subscription-Based
63 PureVPN 0 Votes Subscription-Based
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
63 PureVPN 0 Votes 7–10 Devices
Surfshark
The VPN supports unlimited devices per account, accommodating users with many gadgets.
Maximum number of devices supported per account.
Simultaneous Connections
How many simultaneous connections are allowed?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited
53 PureVPN 0 Votes 8–10 Connections
PureVPN
Supports simultaneous connections of 8 to 10 devices, accommodating multiple devices per user.
Number of devices that can connect at the same time.
Service Availability
Where is the service available?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Global
93 PureVPN 0 Votes Global
PureVPN
Service Availability is global, connecting users to servers worldwide.
Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.
Platform Category
Which platform categories are supported?
71 Surfshark 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router
67 PureVPN 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router
Indicates supported platform categories.
Target User
Who is this VPN designed for?
62 Surfshark 0 Votes Individual, Family
63 PureVPN 0 Votes Individual, Business
vs
Target User
Surfshark targets Individual and Family users, while PureVPN caters to Individual and Business users. This difference makes Surfshark more suited for personal use, whereas PureVPN may be preferable for business scenarios.
Identifies the primary audience.
Security & Encryption 24
Audit Frequency
How often are audits done?
77 Surfshark 0 Votes Periodic
72 PureVPN 0 Votes Periodic
vs
Audit Frequency
Both VPNs conduct periodic audits, maintaining transparent security practices. This regular auditing supports user trust and compliance standards.
How often audits are performed.
Kill Switch
Is a kill switch available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
Kill Switch
Both Surfshark and PureVPN include a Kill Switch to protect user data by cutting internet access if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly, ensuring security continuity.
Blocks traffic if VPN connection drops.
Stealth Mode
Is stealth mode available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
Stealth Mode
Both Surfshark and PureVPN support Stealth Mode, which helps users bypass VPN blocks and censorship, enhancing privacy and access capabilities.
Hides VPN usage from detection systems.
Third-Party Audit Availability
Are third-party audits available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
Third-Party Audit Availability
Both Surfshark and PureVPN offer third-party audit availability, boosting trust by verifying security and privacy practices externally.
Availability of external audit reports.
Default Protocol
What protocol is used by default?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes WireGuard
93 PureVPN 0 Votes WireGuard
Surfshark
The default VPN protocol is WireGuard, favored for its speed and modern encryption.
PureVPN
The default VPN Protocol is WireGuard, known for its speed and strong security.
Protocol used by default.
Encryption Strength
What encryption strength is used?
87 Surfshark 0 Votes AES-256
83 PureVPN 0 Votes AES-256
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
75 PureVPN 0 Votes WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
Surfshark
Supported VPN protocols include OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, covering a range of compatibility, security, and performance options.
Lists all supported VPN protocols.
Firewall Integration
Does it integrate with a firewall?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
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 PureVPN
Surfshark
Obfuscation technology conceals VPN traffic to evade censorship and VPN blocks.
Masks VPN traffic to bypass censorship.
Multi-Hop VPN
Is multi-hop VPN supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Surfshark
Multi-hop VPN chains user traffic through multiple servers for enhanced privacy and anonymity.
Routes traffic through multiple servers.
Encryption Standard
What encryption standard is used?
72 Surfshark 0 Votes AES, ChaCha20
63 PureVPN 0 Votes AES
Specifies the primary encryption algorithms used.
Key Exchange Method
How are encryption keys exchanged?
77 Surfshark 0 Votes ECDHE, RSA
72 PureVPN 0 Votes RSA, ECDHE
vs
Key Exchange Method
Surfshark and PureVPN both use ECDHE and RSA key exchange methods, employing strong cryptographic protocols for secure data transmission.
Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.
Privacy & Logging Policy 18
Logging Policy Type
What is the logging policy type?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes No-Logs
93 PureVPN 0 Votes No-Logs
vs
Logging Policy Type
Surfshark and PureVPN both have a No-Logs policy type, meaning neither stores user activity logs, which is crucial for privacy-conscious customers.
Describes the overall logging stance.
RAM-Only Servers
Are RAM-only servers used?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
RAM-Only Servers
Both Surfshark and PureVPN use RAM-only servers, enhancing privacy by ensuring no data persists on physical drives after server reboots.
Indicates use of volatile memory servers.
Connection Logs
Are connection logs stored?
No
0
Votes
Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
vs
Connection Logs
Neither Surfshark nor PureVPN retains connection logs, reinforcing their commitment to user privacy by avoiding storage of connection-related data.
Indicates logging of connection metadata.
Metadata Logs
Are metadata logs collected?
No
0
Votes
Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
vs
Metadata Logs
Surfshark and PureVPN do not log metadata, further minimizing data retention and improving user anonymity.
Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.
Privacy Policy Clarity
How clear is the privacy policy?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Clear
93 PureVPN 0 Votes Clear
PureVPN
Privacy Policy Clarity is clear, which helps users understand privacy commitments.
Describes how understandable the policy is.
Privacy Certification
Does it have privacy certifications?
47 Surfshark 0 Votes ISO 27001, TRUSTe
0 PureVPN 0 Votes None
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?
No
0
Votes
Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Indicates whether user activity is logged.
IP Address Logging
Are IP addresses logged?
No
0
Votes
Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.
Timestamp Logging
Are timestamps logged?
No
0
Votes
Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Indicates logging of session timestamps.
Bandwidth Usage Logging
Is bandwidth usage logged?
No
0
Votes
Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.
Jurisdiction Country
Which country is the jurisdiction?
82 Surfshark 0 Votes Netherlands
33 PureVPN 0 Votes British Virgin Islands
Country where the VPN company is legally registered.
Data Retention Period
How long is data retained?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes No Logs
93 PureVPN 0 Votes No Logs
Length of time user data is retained.
Network & Server Infrastructure 20
Throttling Policy
Is bandwidth throttled?
17 Surfshark 0 Votes No Throttling
13 PureVPN 0 Votes No Throttling
vs
Throttling Policy
Both Surfshark and PureVPN have No Throttling policies, which means users can enjoy consistent speeds without ISP or VPN-imposed bandwidth limits.
Describes bandwidth throttling rules.
Gaming Optimized Servers
Are gaming servers available?
Yes 1 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
vs
Gaming Optimized Servers
Surfshark offers Gaming Optimized Servers, while PureVPN does not. Gamers seeking lower latency and better performance may find Surfshark more advantageous.
Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.
Gaming optimized servers make Surfshark more appealing since it really cuts down latency for smoother play.
Server Ownership
Who owns the servers?
67 Surfshark 0 Votes Hybrid
63 PureVPN 0 Votes Hybrid
vs
Server Ownership
Both VPNs use a Hybrid Server Ownership model, likely mixing owned and third-party servers, balancing control and scalability.
Describes who controls the servers.
Data Center Tier
What data center tier is used?
47 Surfshark 0 Votes Tier III
43 PureVPN 0 Votes Tier III
vs
Data Center Tier
Surfshark and PureVPN both maintain Tier III data centers, providing high availability and reliability that supports stable VPN connections.
Indicates data center reliability level.
Total Server Count
How many servers are available?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes 3000+
93 PureVPN 0 Votes 3000+
Surfshark
Total server count exceeds 3000, indicating a large network with many options for users worldwide.
PureVPN
Total Server Count exceeds 3000, offering users a large selection of servers.
Approximate total number of servers available.
Total Country Coverage
How many countries are covered?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes 90+
73 PureVPN 0 Votes 60–90
Surfshark
Total country coverage extends beyond 90 countries, providing worldwide server options and global access.
PureVPN
The VPN covers between 60 and 90 countries, offering wide geographical server availability.
Number of countries with server presence.
Total City Coverage
How many cities are covered?
87 Surfshark 0 Votes 200+
83 PureVPN 0 Votes 200+
Surfshark
Total city coverage exceeds 200 cities, ensuring extensive geographic reach and more options for optimal performance.
Number of cities with VPN servers.
Server Location Type
Are server locations physical or virtual?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Mixed
93 PureVPN 0 Votes Mixed
PureVPN
Server Location Type is mixed, indicating a combination of physical and virtual server locations to balance coverage and performance.
Indicates how server locations are implemented.
Network Uptime SLA
Is there an uptime SLA?
64 Surfshark 0 Votes 99.9%
60 PureVPN 0 Votes 99.9%
PureVPN
Network Uptime SLA guarantees 99.9% service availability, minimizing downtime.
Guaranteed network uptime level.
Load Balancing
Is load balancing supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Distributes traffic evenly across servers.
Smart Location Selection
Is smart location selection available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Automatically selects optimal servers.
Specialized Servers
Are specialized servers offered?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates presence of purpose-built servers.
Performance & Speed 14
Latency Impact
How much latency does the VPN add?
vs
Latency Impact
Surfshark impacts latency by 15 ms, whereas PureVPN shows 20 ms impact. Surfshark's slightly lower latency may benefit real-time applications like gaming and video calls.
Additional latency introduced by the VPN.
Peak Speed Performance
What is the peak speed performance?
vs
Peak Speed Performance
PureVPN offers a higher Peak Speed Performance of 800 Mbps compared to Surfshark's 550 Mbps. For users needing maximum throughput, PureVPN might be the stronger option.
Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.
PureVPN’s peak speed of 800 Mbps is quite impressive and definitely better for heavy streaming or downloading than Surfshark.
Smart Routing
Is smart routing used?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
Smart Routing
Both VPNs support Smart Routing to optimize traffic through the best possible paths for speed and reliability.
Routes traffic through optimal paths.
Performance Analytics
Are performance analytics available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
vs
Performance Analytics
Surfshark provides Performance Analytics to monitor connection quality, while PureVPN does not. This makes Surfshark better for users interested in detailed speed insights.
Provides performance monitoring insights.
Regional Speed Optimization
Is regional speed optimization supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
Regional Speed Optimization
Surfshark and PureVPN support Regional Speed Optimization, meaning they optimize server selection based on user location for faster connections.
Optimizes speeds by geographic region.
Average Download Speed
What is the average download speed?
Surfshark
Average download speed of 480 Mbps provides fast data transfer, supporting HD streaming and bulk downloads.
PureVPN
Average Download Speed is 300 Mbps, offering fast internet connectivity suitable for most uses.
Typical downstream speed when connected to the VPN.
Average Upload Speed
What is the average upload speed?
Surfshark
The average upload speed is 420 Mbps, suitable for high-quality video calls and fast file uploads.
PureVPN
Average Upload Speed is 250 Mbps, which supports quick data sending and video calls.
Typical upstream speed when using the VPN.
Speed Consistency
How consistent are the speeds?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes High
93 PureVPN 0 Votes High
Surfshark
Speed consistency is rated high, indicating stable and reliable connection speeds over time.
Stability of speeds over time.
Speed Throttling
Is speed throttling applied?
No
0
Votes
Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.
Protocol Speed Optimization
Are protocols optimized for speed?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Optimizes protocol choice for speed.
Auto Server Selection Speed
Does it auto-select the fastest server?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Automatically selects fastest servers.
Speed Test Tool
Is there a built-in speed test?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Built-in tool for measuring VPN speed.
Platform & Device Support 13
OS Version Compatibility
Which OS versions are supported?
78 Surfshark 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router
74 PureVPN 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router
vs
OS Version Compatibility
Surfshark supports an additional platform, macOS, compared to PureVPN which supports the same OS list minus macOS. This slight difference favors Surfshark for macOS users.
Operating systems and platforms supported.
Smart TV
Are smart TVs supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
Smart TV
Both VPNs support Smart TV devices, enabling users to enjoy VPN benefits on their television streaming platforms.
Indicates support for smart TV platforms.
Browser Extension
Are browser extensions available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
Browser Extension
Surfshark and PureVPN each offer browser extensions, enhancing usability and quick VPN toggling across popular browsers.
Indicates availability of browser extensions.
IoT Device Compatibility
Are IoT devices compatible?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
IoT Device Compatibility
Surfshark and PureVPN provide IoT Device Compatibility, allowing secure VPN use on various connected home devices.
Indicates compatibility with IoT devices.
Browser Types Supported
Which browsers are supported?
85 Surfshark 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera
84 PureVPN 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge
Surfshark
Browser types supported include Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera, enabling VPN use directly through popular browsers.
Lists supported browser types.
Gaming Console
Are gaming consoles supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.
Manual Configuration
Is manual configuration supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Allows manual VPN setup.
CLI Support
Is CLI support available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
vs
CLI Support
Both Surfshark and PureVPN support CLI interfaces, facilitating advanced control for power users and developers.
Indicates command-line interface availability.
App Interface Consistency
Is the app interface consistent?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Consistent
93 PureVPN 0 Votes Consistent
Consistency of UI across platforms.
Cross-Platform Sync
Is cross-platform sync available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Syncs settings across devices.
Device Management Dashboard
Is there a device management dashboard?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Centralized device management interface.
ARM Architecture
Are ARM devices supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates support for ARM-based devices.
Features & Functionality 24
API Access
Is API access available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Surfshark
API access is available, facilitating integration with other software or automated management of the VPN service.
Provides programmatic API access.
Custom DNS
Can custom DNS be configured?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Allows use of custom DNS resolvers.
Per-App Rules
Can rules be set per app?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Applies VPN rules per application.
LAN Access
Is LAN access allowed?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Surfshark
LAN access when connected allows users to interact with devices on the local network behind the VPN.
Allows access to local network devices.
Custom Routing Rules
Can routing rules be customized?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Surfshark
Custom routing rules allow users to define specific paths for traffic, enhancing control and performance optimization.
Allows advanced routing customization.
Automation Support
Is automation supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Surfshark
Automation support allows users to integrate VPN usage with other automated workflows and scripts.
Supports automation via integrations or scripts.
Automation Scripts
Are automation scripts supported?
Yes 1 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Allows use of automation scripts.
Automation scripts in Surfshark are a really cool feature that you don’t find everywhere and that makes managing the VPN easier.
Split Tunneling
Is split tunneling supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Allows selective routing of traffic outside the VPN.
App-Based Split Tunneling
Can split tunneling be set per app?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Allows split tunneling by application.
URL-Based Split Tunneling
Can split tunneling be set by URL?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Allows split tunneling by website or domain.
Auto-Connect Rules
Are auto-connect rules supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Automatically connects under defined conditions.
Trusted Wi-Fi Detection
Can trusted Wi-Fi networks be detected?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Detects trusted networks to control VPN behavior.
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
80 PureVPN 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video
Surfshark
Streaming platforms supported include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, ensuring broad access to popular services securely through the VPN.
PureVPN
Streaming Platform Support includes major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.
Streaming platforms that the VPN can reliably unblock and support.
Torrenting Policy
Is torrenting allowed?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed
93 PureVPN 0 Votes Allowed
PureVPN
Torrenting is allowed, which means users can use peer-to-peer file sharing freely on the VPN network.
Defines torrenting rules.
4K Streaming
Is 4K streaming supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.
Cloud Gaming
Does it support cloud gaming?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.
Streaming Reliability
How reliable is streaming access?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes High
93 PureVPN 0 Votes High
PureVPN
Streaming Reliability is rated high, minimizing interruptions for media consumption.
Consistency of streaming access over time.
HD Streaming
Is HD streaming supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates support for HD streaming quality.
Gaming Latency Optimization
Is gaming latency optimized?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.
P2P File Sharing
Is P2P file sharing allowed?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.
Port Selection for P2P
Can ports be selected for P2P?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Allows port selection for P2P traffic.
Account, Access & Management 10
Login History Visibility
Is login history visible?
Yes 1 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Shows login and access history.
The ability to see login history on Surfshark adds a layer of security that gives me peace of mind about account safety.
Multi-User Profiles
Can multiple user profiles be created?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Allows multiple user profiles under one account.
Sub-Account
Are sub-accounts supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.
Access Control Levels
Are access control levels available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Supports different permission levels.
Device Revocation
Can devices be revoked remotely?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
PureVPN
Device Revocation enables users to remove trusted devices from their account for security.
Allows removal of connected devices remotely.
Password Policy
How strong is the password policy?
67 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong
63 PureVPN 0 Votes Strong
PureVPN
Password Policy is strong, requiring users to create robust passwords improving account security.
Rules for password complexity and security.
User Account Dashboard
Is there a user account dashboard?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
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 PureVPN
Indicates availability of shared plans.
Session Management
Can active sessions be managed?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Allows viewing and managing active sessions.
Two-Factor Authentication
Is two-factor authentication available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Adds an extra layer of account security.
Customer Support & Documentation 8
Support Channels
What support channels are available?
64 Surfshark 0 Votes Live Chat, Email, Ticket
68 PureVPN 0 Votes Live Chat, Email
PureVPN
Support channels include Live Chat and Email, providing multiple ways to access customer service.
Lists available customer support channels.
Knowledge Base
Is there a knowledge base?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.
API Documentation
Is API documentation available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Provides documentation for API usage.
Response Time SLA
What is the response time SLA?
67 Surfshark 0 Votes Within 24 Hours
63 PureVPN 0 Votes Within 24 Hours
Expected support response time.
Community Forum
Is there a community forum?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Indicates presence of a user community forum.
Setup Guides
Are setup guides available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Provides step-by-step setup instructions.
Video Tutorials
Are video tutorials available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.
Support Language Coverage
What support languages are available?
52 Surfshark 0 Votes English, Multi-language
83 PureVPN 0 Votes Multi-language
Languages supported by customer service.
Billing, Plans & Trials 12
Free Trial Availability
Is a free trial available?
No
0
Votes
Surfshark
Yes 1 Votes PureVPN
PureVPN
Free Trial Availability allows users to test the VPN service at no cost before subscribing.
Indicates whether a free trial is offered.
PureVPN having a free trial is a good plus since I’m not ready to fully commit unless I try it first.
Trial Duration
How long is the free trial?
PureVPN
A 7-day trial duration lets potential users try the service before committing.
Length of the free trial period.
Payment Methods Supported
What payment methods are supported?
60 Surfshark 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency, Gift Card
63 PureVPN 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency
PureVPN
Payment Methods Supported include Credit Card, PayPal, and Cryptocurrency for versatile payment options.
Supported payment methods.
Plan Flexibility
How flexible are the plans?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes High
93 PureVPN 0 Votes High
Ease of changing plans.
Business Plan Availability
Are business plans available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates availability of business plans.
Plan Change Policy
What is the plan change policy?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed Anytime
93 PureVPN 0 Votes Allowed Anytime
PureVPN
Plan Change Policy allows users to change their subscription plan anytime without restrictions.
Policy governing whether users can upgrade or downgrade their subscription plans.
Subscription Length Options
What subscription lengths are available?
64 Surfshark 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year
60 PureVPN 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 PureVPN
Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.
Refund Period
What is the refund period?
67 Surfshark 0 Votes 30 Days
68 PureVPN 0 Votes 31 Days
Time window for requesting refunds.
Anonymous Payment
Are anonymous payments supported?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Allows anonymous payment methods.
Auto-Renewal
Is auto-renewal enabled?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates whether subscriptions auto-renew.
Family Plan Availability
Are family plans available?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Indicates availability of family plans.
Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11
Legal Track Record
What is the legal track record?
97 Surfshark 1 Votes Clean
68 PureVPN 0 Votes Minor Issues
History of legal issues or disputes.
Surfshark’s clean legal track record boosts my trust since I want a VPN that hasn’t had any privacy controversies.
Independent Security Audits
Are independent audits conducted?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Undergoes third-party security audits.
No-Log Claim Credibility
Is the no-logs claim credible?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Credibility of no-logs claims.
Public Reputation
What is the public reputation?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Excellent
53 PureVPN 0 Votes Good
Overall public perception.
Service Uptime
What is the service uptime?
PureVPN
Service Uptime is 99.9%, ensuring highly reliable VPN connections.
Average service availability over time.
Third-Party Review Presence
Does the VPN have third-party reviews?
97 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong Presence
93 PureVPN 0 Votes Strong Presence
PureVPN
There is a strong presence of third-party reviews, which helps validate the service's credibility.
Indicates whether the VPN service is actively reviewed on independent third-party platforms.
Downtime Transparency
Are downtimes disclosed?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
No
0
Votes
PureVPN
Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.
Audit Transparency
Are audit reports public?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Publishes full audit reports.
Company Transparency
Is company ownership transparent?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Discloses ownership and leadership.
Jurisdiction Clarity
Is jurisdiction clearly stated?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Clearly states legal jurisdiction.
Transparency Reports
Are transparency reports published?
Yes 0 Votes Surfshark
Yes 0 Votes PureVPN
Publishes government request reports.
Surveys
Because hot takes deserve votes.Performance
How would you rate the overall performance of this VPN?
Ease of Setup
How easy is it to set up this VPN?
User Interface
How would you describe the usability of this VPN's interface?
Connection Stability
How stable is the connection when using this VPN?
Security Features
How would you rate the security features of this VPN?
Device Compatibility
How well does this VPN work across different devices?
Speed During Use
How fast is your internet connection when using this VPN?
Customer Support
How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?
Design Appeal
How would you rate the design appeal of this VPN's interface?
Pricing
How would you rate the price of this VPN compared to its features?
Guides 0
Reviews 0
The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.Average Rating
Discussions 0
Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.Awards 2
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