NordVPN vs Surfshark: which should you choose?
Quick answer: NordVPN is built for streaming, while Surfshark suits budget. For most users NordVPN is the stronger default, but Surfshark can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case. Surfshark has the lower entry price.
Both NordVPN and Surfshark get recommended a lot, but they solve the job differently. Below we compare them on pricing, strengths and the use cases each one fits, then give a clear verdict.
Side-by-side
| NordVPN | Surfshark | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | VPN | VPN |
| What it's known for | Largest server network with NordLynx (WireGuard) speeds, Threat Protection malware blocking and audited no-logs policy. | Unlimited simultaneous devices on one subscription, low long-term price and CleanWeb ad/tracker blocking. |
| Pricing | ~$3-5/mo on 2-year plan, ~$12.99/mo monthly | ~$2.19-2.99/mo on 2-year plan, ~$15.45/mo monthly |
| Best audience | Users wanting a do-everything VPN for streaming and privacy without managing technical settings. | Budget-conscious users and large households needing to cover many devices at once. |
| Best for | streaming, privacy | budget, families |
| Entry price | ~$3-5/mo | ~$2.19-2.99/mo |
| Biggest strength | Repeatedly and independently audited no-logs policy. | Unlimited devices is rare at this price point. |
| Main caveat | Monthly plan is expensive (~$12.99). | Netherlands base sits within the Nine Eyes alliance. |
Features compared
The feature sets only partly overlap. Here is what each one actually gives you:
NordVPN key features
- NordLynx protocol (built on WireGuard) for high-speed connections
- Threat Protection Pro: malware, tracker and ad blocking at DNS/app level
- Double VPN multi-hop and Onion-over-VPN routing
- Meshnet for private encrypted device-to-device links
Surfshark key features
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections on one subscription
- CleanWeb ad, tracker and malware-domain blocking
- MultiHop double-VPN routing
- Camouflage/obfuscation mode and NoBorders
Pricing tiers side by side
NordVPN plans
| Plan | Price | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| 2-year plan | ~$3-5/mo | Billed upfront; renews higher |
| Monthly | ~$12.99/mo |
Surfshark plans
| Plan | Price | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| 2-year plan | ~$2.19-2.99/mo | Billed upfront |
| Monthly | ~$15.45/mo |
Tiers compiled from the vendors' published plans and independent reviews; prices are approximate and change often, so confirm current figures (and your region's taxes) on each vendor's site.
Strengths compared
Where NordVPN wins
One of the most frequently audited no-logs VPNs paired with consistently top-tier WireGuard speeds.
- Repeatedly and independently audited no-logs policy.
- Fast WireGuard-based NordLynx speeds.
That makes it the stronger pick for users wanting a do-everything VPN for streaming and privacy without managing technical settings.
Where Surfshark wins
Unlimited simultaneous connections at a budget long-term price.
- Unlimited devices is rare at this price point.
- Very low long-term pricing.
That makes it the stronger pick for budget-conscious users and large households needing to cover many devices at once.
Verdict: choose by fit
There is no single winner; it depends on where you sit.
- Choose NordVPN if you fit its core audience — users wanting a do-everything VPN for streaming and privacy without managing technical settings.
- Choose Surfshark if you fit its core audience — budget-conscious users and large households needing to cover many devices at once.
FAQ
Is NordVPN better than Surfshark?
NordVPN is the stronger default for most users, but Surfshark can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case.
What is the main difference between NordVPN and Surfshark?
NordVPN is one of the most frequently audited no-logs VPNs paired with consistently top-tier WireGuard speeds. Surfshark is unlimited simultaneous connections at a budget long-term price.
Which is cheaper, NordVPN or Surfshark?
Entry pricing differs: NordVPN starts at ~$3-5/mo, while Surfshark starts at ~$2.19-2.99/mo. Compare the tiers above against your usage.
Sources
Facts above are drawn from these independent reviews and the vendors' own pages for NordVPN and Surfshark: