NordVPN vs Surfshark: Which VPN Wins the battle in 2025?

by | Last updated May 20, 2025

Winner
NordVPN
9.5
  • Meshnet
  • Threat Protection Pro
  • Dedicated IP
  • Dark Web Monitor
  • Multiple Devices
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Paid Plans from $3.39/month
Runner Up
Surfshark
8.0
  • Surfshark Antivirus
  • Surfshark Search
  • Surfshark Alert
  • Alternative ID
  • Dedicated IP
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Paid Plans from $2.19/month
NordVPN vs Surfshark

In the digital age, a VPN is your trusty sidekick.

It helps keep your online activity private and secure, especially on public Wi-Fi. But with so many options, which one do you pick?

Today, we’re diving deep into two top contenders to see who’s going to win the fight: NordVPN vs Surfshark.

We’ll compare their features, speeds, and prices to see which one is the better fit for your needs.

Whether you’re new to VPNs or a seasoned pro, this guide will simply help you make an informed choice.

Overview

To bring you the most accurate comparison, we’ve put both NordVPN and Surfshark through rigorous testing.

We’ve assessed their speeds, unblocking capabilities, security features, ease of use, & overall performance to help you decide which VPN is the champion for 2024.

NordVPN logo

Need uncompromising security and blazing-fast speeds? Choose NordVPN.

9.5out of 10

Pricing: Starts at $3.39/month

Key Features:

  • Threat Protection
  • Meshnet
  • Dark Web Monitor
Surfshark logo

Surfshark also delivers exceptional value, and its network spans 3,200+ servers in 100 countries.

8out of 10

Pricing: Starts at $2.19/month

Key Features:

  • CleanWeb
  • Bypasser
  • NoBorders mode

What is NordVPN?

Have you ever heard of NordVPN?

It’s like a digital fortress for your internet.

It is super secure, lightning-fast, and has servers all over the globe.

Perfect if you’re serious about online privacy.

Also, explore our favorite NordVPN alternatives

NordVPN logo
NordVPN
9.5

Experience the internet without limits! Join millions of users in 59 countries who trust NordVPN for blazing-fast speeds and bulletproof security. Try it out today!

Key Benefits

  • Massive server network: 5,500+ servers in 60 countries, meaning you can always find a fast & reliable connection.
  • Double the protection: Their Double VPN feature encrypts your data twice, making it virtually unbreakable.
  • Your secrets are safe: They have a strict no-logs policy, so your online activity stays private.

Pricing

  • Basic: $3.39/month – 1GB of free eSim Data, Secure, high-speed VPN.
  • Plus: $4.39/month – 5GB of free eSim Data, Secure, high-speed VPN.
  • Complete: $5.39/month – 10GB of free eSim Data, Secure, high-speed VPN.
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Pros

  • Fort Knox-level security
  • Blazing fast speeds
  • Servers everywhere

Cons

  • A bit pricey
  • Interface can be confusing at first
  • Not the absolute cheapest option out there

What is Surfshark?

Are you looking for a VPN that’s easy on the wallet?

Surfshark might be your perfect match.

It’s fast, secure, and lets you connect all your devices at once.

Plus, it’s got some neat features that make it stand out.

Also, explore our favorite Surfshark alternatives

Surfshark logo
Surfshark
8.0

Unleash the internet’s full potential with Surfshark! Join 3200+ servers in 100 countries and experience true online freedom. Give it a try now!

Key Benefits

  • Unlimited connections: Connect all your devices – no limits!
  • Global network: 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, so you can always find a good connection.
  • CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware, keeping your browsing experience squeaky clean.

Pricing

  • Surfshark Starter: $2.19/month + 3 Extra months
  • Surfshark One: $2.69/month + 3 Extra months.
  • Surfshark One+: $4.29/month + 3 Extra months.
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Pros

  • Wallet-friendly
  • Unlimited connections
  • Speedy performance

Cons

  • Fewer features than NordVPN
  • Smaller server network
  • Customer support could be better

Feature Comparison

Let’s break down how these two VPN services stack up against each other feature by feature.

We’ll look at everything from server networks to unique offerings to help you make the best choice for your VPN connection.

1. Server Network and Locations

  • NordVPN: Boasts a massive network of more than 5,500 servers spread across 60 countries. This gives you plenty of options for fast and reliable connections, no matter where you are.
  • Surfshark: While smaller, Surfshark still offers a respectable 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. This provides good global coverage, though you may have fewer options in specific regions compared to NordVPN.
Personal experinece with NordVPN

2. Simultaneous Connections

  • NordVPN: Allows you to easily connect up to 6 devices at the same time with a single VPN subscription.
  • Surfshark: Stands out by offering unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can protect all your devices with just one account.

3. Dedicated IP Addresses

  • NordVPN: Offers dedicated IP addresses as an add-on for an additional fee. This can be very useful for accessing services that block shared IP addresses.
  • Surfshark Also provides static IP servers in select locations, which function similarly to dedicated IPs, but at no extra cost.
NordVPN Threat Protection

4. Specialty Servers

  • NordVPN: It has a variety of specialty servers, including obfuscated servers for bypassing censorship, double VPN servers for extra security, and P2P servers optimized for torrenting.
  • Surfshark: While it doesn’t have as many specialty server options as NordVPN, it does offer MultiHop servers for enhanced security and NoBorders mode for bypassing restrictions in heavily censored countries.

5. Security and Privacy

  • Both VPN providers: Utilize strong encryption protocols, have a strict no-logs policy, and offer features like kill switches and leak protection to safeguard your internet connection and privacy.
  • NordVPN: Goes a step further with its Threat Protection feature, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware even when you’re not connected to the VPN.
  • Surfshark: Includes CleanWeb for ad and malware blocking and Bypasser to allow specific apps or websites to bypass the VPN connection.
Surfshark Alert

6. Speed and Performance

  • Both VPNs Deliver impressive speeds, ensuring minimal impact on your browsing and streaming experience.
  • NordVPN: Generally has a slight edge in speed tests, particularly on long-distance connections.
  • Surfshark: While not as consistently fast as NordVPN, it still offers excellent speeds that are suitable for most online activities.

7. Ease of Use

  • Both VPNs feature user-friendly apps for various platforms, making them accessible even to beginners.
  • NordVPN: Its map-based interface is intuitive and visually appealing.
  • Surfshark: Offers a clean and straightforward interface that’s easy to navigate.

What should you look for when choosing a VPN?

  • Speed and Performance: Does the VPN significantly slow down your internet connection?
  • Security and Privacy: Does the VPN offer strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and essential security features like a kill switch?
  • Server Network: Does the VPN have a wide range of server locations, providing good global coverage and access to geo-restricted content?
  • Simultaneous Connections: With a single subscription how many devices can you connect at once?
  • Ease of Use: Is the VPN’s interface user-friendly and intuitive?
  • Customer Support: Does the VPN offer reliable customer support in case you encounter any issues?
  • Price: Is the VPN’s pricing competitive, and does it offer good value for money?

Additional factors to consider:

  • Specialty servers: If you need features like obfuscated servers or dedicated IPs, check if the VPN offers them.
  • Device compatibility: Make sure the VPN has apps for all your devices.
  • Free trial or money-back guarantee: This allows to test the VPN before committing to a long term subscription.

Final Verdict

In the battle of the VPNs, both NordVPN and Surfshark put up a strong fight.

If top-notch security and blazing speeds are your top priority, NordVPN takes the crown.

However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent performance and offers unlimited simultaneous connections, Surfshark VPN is the way to go.

Remember, the best VPN service for you depends on your unique needs.

Consider factors like your budget, the number of devices you need to connect, and whether you require features like a dedicated IP address.

We’ve given you the facts; now the choice is yours! Trust our expertise and choose the VPN that perfectly fits your digital life.

More of NordVPN

We’ve looked at NordVPN alternatives, so how does NordVPN stack up directly against them? Here’s a quick comparison:

  • NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: Both are top-tier, but NordVPN often comes out slightly ahead with more features and sometimes better speeds for the price.
  • NordVPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN can be more affordable, but NordVPN is generally seen as more reliable with a larger server network and better streaming capabilities.
  • NordVPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN focuses strongly on privacy and even offers a free plan, but NordVPN tends to have more features, better speeds, and wider server availability.
  • NordVPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN is a newer option that’s often budget-friendly, but NordVPN has a more established reputation, larger server network, and more advanced features.
  • NordVPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN integrates with an ad blocker, which is unique. NordVPN is a more comprehensive VPN with a wider range of servers and features.
  • NordVPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield aims for simplicity. NordVPN offers more advanced features and customization options.
  • NordVPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is known for strong encryption. NordVPN offers a larger server network and a broader feature set.
  • NordVPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN is budget-friendly. NordVPN is generally faster and has more features.
  • NordVPN vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN includes identity theft protection. NordVPN focuses on VPN features and often has better performance.
  • NordVPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost is user-friendly with specialized servers. NordVPN often has better speeds and more advanced features.
  • NordVPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee VPN is bundled with security software. NordVPN is a dedicated VPN service with more extensive features and better performance.
  • NordVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA is known for privacy and customization. NordVPN often has a more user-friendly interface and better streaming capabilities.
  • NordVPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is a decentralized VPN. NordVPN uses a traditional server network known for its speed and reliability.

More of SurfsharkVPN

We’ve looked at alternatives to SurfsharkVPN, so how does SurfsharkVPN stack up directly against them?

  • SurfsharkVPN vs ExpressVPN: Surfshark is generally more affordable and allows unlimited devices, while ExpressVPN is known for its consistent speeds and strong reputation.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs PureVPN: Surfshark is often faster and has more features, while PureVPN boasts a larger server count. Surfshark has better streaming support in tests.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs ProtonVPN: Surfshark is generally more affordable and allows unlimited connections, while ProtonVPN focuses on strong security and privacy, and can be slightly faster.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs PrivadoVPN: Surfshark offers unlimited connections and more features, often at a better long-term price, while PrivadoVPN has a decent free plan but a smaller server network.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs AdGuard VPN: Surfshark is a comprehensive VPN with more features, while AdGuard VPN’s strength is its ad-blocking integration.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs Virtual Shield: Surfshark offers more features and better performance than the simpler Virtual Shield.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs StrongVPN: Surfshark allows unlimited connections and often has better pricing, while StrongVPN is known for strong encryption.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs FastestVPN: Surfshark generally offers more features and better performance than the budget-friendly FastestVPN.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs AuraVPN: Surfshark focuses on VPN features and unlimited connections, while AuraVPN includes identity theft protection.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs CyberGhost: Surfshark allows unlimited connections and often has better long-term pricing, while CyberGhost has user-friendly apps and specialized servers.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs McAfee VPN: Surfshark is a dedicated VPN service with more features and better performance than the basic VPN from McAfee.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs Private Internet Access: Surfshark allows unlimited connections and often has better streaming capabilities, while PIA is known for customization and a large server network.
  • SurfsharkVPN vs Mysterium: Surfshark uses a traditional server network known for speed and features, while Mysterium is a decentralized VPN.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is NordVPN or Surfshark faster?

Both VPNs offer impressive speeds, but Nord VPN typically has a slight edge, especially on long-distance connections.

Can I use NordVPN and Surfshark on all my devices?

Yes, both VPNs have apps for major platforms like Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. NordVPN allows more than six simultaneous connections, while Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections.

Which VPN server network is larger?

NordVPN boasts a larger server network with over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, compared to Surfshark’s 3,200+ servers in 100 countries.

Do these VPNs offer dedicated IP addresses?

NordVPN offers dedicated IP addresses as an add-on, while Surfshark provides static IP servers in select locations at no extra cost.

Which VPN is better for streaming?

Both VPNs are great for streaming and are capable of unblocking popular platforms like Netflix and Hulu. However, NordVPN’s slightly faster speeds and larger server network may give it a slight advantage in some cases.

Fahim Joharder

Fahim Joharder

Author

A tech enthusiast and writer with a passion for AI and software innovations. He simplifies complex topics to help readers stay ahead in the digital world.

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