⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Preisgestaltung: Surfshark VPN starts at $1.99/month vs OpenVPN at $0 free or $7/month paid
- Ideal für: Surfshark for everyday users wanting online privacy on multiple devices, OpenVPN for businesses building their own private network
- Hauptunterschied: Surfshark is a consumer VPN service with ready-to-use apps. OpenVPN is an open source VPN protocol and self-hosted access server.
- Our pick: Surfshark for most users — based on its 3,200+ servers, unlimited device connections, and beginner-friendly mobile apps.
Choosing between Surfshark VPN vs OpenVPN comes down to one Frage.
Do you want a ready-made vpn service or a build-your-own setup?
Surfshark is a polished consumer vpn provider with apps for all your devices.
OpenVPN is a tunneling protocol and self-hosted access server for tech-savvy users.
Both protect your internet traffic, but they target very different people.
Überblick
This Surfshark VPN vs OpenVPN comparison covers pricing, Sicherheit, ease of use, and core features.
We also break down who each tool works best for in 2026.
Our sources include published specs, documentation, independent audits, and G2 reviews.
By the end, you’ll know which vpn service fits your needs.
Was ist Surfshark VPN?
Surfshark VPN ist ein Premium-VPN-Dienst mit Sitz in den Niederlanden.
It encrypts your internet connection and hides your real ip address.
The Surfshark app runs on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and Apple TV.
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections on a single subscription.
That makes it a strong pick for families and shared households.
Surfshark VPN
Surfshark is a budget-friendly vpn company offering 3,200+ vpn servers across 100 countries. It includes a kill switch, split tunneling, and CleanWeb ad and malware blocker.
Surfshark VPN-Preise
Here’s what Surfshark pricing looks like in 2026. The two-year plan is the cheapest option.
| Planen | Preis | Am besten geeignet für |
|---|---|---|
| 24 Monate + 3 zusätzliche Monate | 1,99 €/Monat | Long-term savings on a vpn subscription |
| 12 Monate + 3 zusätzliche | 3,19 €/Monat | Mid-term commitment for individuals |
| 1 Monat | 15,45 $/Monat | Short-term testing or temporary use |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Kostenlose Testversion: 7-day free trial available for Android app and iOS users via Google Pay or App Store. No free trial for desktop signups.
Geld-zurück-Garantie: 30-day money back guarantee on all paid plans, no questions asked.
📌 Notiz: Studierende, die sich bei Student Beans receive a 15% discount on Surfshark plans. The Surfshark subscription auto-renews at standard rates after the initial term.
⚠️ Warnung: Surfshark prices typically increase after the initial subscription term ends. Check your account before renewal to avoid surprise charges on the next billing cycle.
Wichtigste Vorteile von Surfshark VPN
Here’s what makes Surfshark VPN worth considering:
- Unbegrenzte Geräteverbindungen: One Surfshark subscription covers all your devices at once. There’s no cap on how many phones, laptops, or routers you connect.
- Richtlinie „Keine Protokollierung“ (überprüft): The no logs policy has been independently audited by Deloitte. Surfshark’s privacy policy confirms it doesn’t track browsing history or web traffic.
- CleanWeb Blocker: Surfshark’s built-in ad and malware blocker stops trackers and pop-ups. It works at the dns level while your vpn connection is active.
- Alternative ID-Funktion: Generate a fake email and virtual phone number for signups. The alternative id feature protects your real identity from data brokers.
- MultiHop and Obfuscated Servers: MultiHop routes through multiple servers for stronger online privacy. Obfuscated servers hide vpn traffic in restrictive regions.
- 3,200+ Surfshark Servers: Surfshark’s servers span 100 countries with both physical and virtual servers. You get plenty of server locations for streaming and gaming.
What Our Team Noticed
Unser Schriftsteller signed up for Surfshark in February and spent several weeks using it across multiple devices. Here’s what stood out during that hands-on time:
Surfshark VPN: Vor- und Nachteile
✅ Vorteile
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on one subscription
- Affordable two-year pricing at $1.99/month
- 3,200+ Surfshark servers in 100 countries
- Independently audited no logs policy by Deloitte
- Strong split tunneling feature and kill switch
❌ Nachteile
- Monthly plan costs $15.45, which is steep
- Inconsistent connection times on some Surfshark servers
- Netherlands base falls within the Nine Eyes alliance
- Static ip addresses and dedicated ip address cost extra
Was ist OpenVPN?
OpenVPN is an open source vpn protocol and self-hosted access server platform.
OpenVPN is one of the safest vpn protocols available since its 2001 launch.
OpenVPN uses secure sockets layer technology to build a secure tunnel for data traffic.
OpenVPN works on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS operating systems.
Most vpn providers, including Surfshark, support the openvpn protocol in their apps.
OpenVPN
OpenVPN is a free, open source vpn protocol used to build secure connections between vpn clients and openvpn servers. The openvpn access server and openvpn connect client run on most operating systems.
OpenVPN-Preise
Here’s what OpenVPN costs in 2026. The free tier covers basic use cases.
| Planen | Preis | Am besten geeignet für |
|---|---|---|
| Free (Community Edition) | $0 | Personal use and small private networks |
| Wachstum | $7/monat | Klein Geschäft Fernzugriff |
| Unternehmen | Brauch | Large organizations with site-to-site needs |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Kostenlose Testversion: The OpenVPN Community Edition is openvpn free forever. The cloud product offers a free tier with limited concurrent connections before paid plans begin.
Geld-zurück-Garantie: OpenVPN doesn’t advertise a standard money back guarantee window. Cancel anytime since billing is monthly on paid tiers.
📌 Notiz: The free community edition gives you a vpn client and openvpn server. You handle vpn configuration, server costs, and updates yourself.
⚠️ Warnung: The free version requires manual configuration and a server you control. You need technical knowledge to install openvpn and maintain it long term.
Wichtigste Vorteile von OpenVPN
Here’s what makes OpenVPN worth considering:
- Open-Source-Code: OpenVPN’s open source code lets developers inspect and Prüfung the source. Community scrutiny helps catch bugs faster than closed-source vpn services.
- Starke Verschlüsselungsalgorithmen: OpenVPN supports AES, Blowfish, and other encryption ciphers. It uses the openssl library and supports custom encryption keys.
- TCP- und UDP-Unterstützung: OpenVPN tcp ensures reliable delivery via tcp transmission control protocol. OpenVPN udp is faster using the udp user datagram protocol.
- Cross-Platform Vpn Client: OpenVPN connect runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices. There’s even an openvpn gui for desktop setup.
- Standortvernetzung: Use openvpn for remote access, secure iot communication, and site-to-site vpn tunnels. The openvpn access server scales for business needs.
- Bypasses Firewalls: OpenVPN works through restrictive firewalls and nat gateways. The hmac firewall and tls auth options add another security layer.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer set up OpenVPN access server on a small cloud instance and tested vpn connections from multiple clients. Here’s what stood out:
OpenVPN: Vorteile und Nachteile
✅ Vorteile
- Open source vpn protocol with community scrutiny
- Kostenlose Community Edition für den persönlichen Gebrauch
- Strong AES encryption and SSL/TLS authentication
- Works on most operating systems and devices
- Flexible vpn configuration for advanced users
❌ Nachteile
- Complex manual configuration for beginners
- No built-in server network like Surfshark VPN
- Langsamer als neuere Protokolle wie WireGuard
- You handle hosting, updates, and maintenance yourself
Funktionsvergleich
Ready to dive into a detailed comparison of Surfshark VPN vs OpenVPN?
We’ll cover 9 key categories to help you decide which fits your needs. The summary table below gives you a quick view first.
| Besonderheit | Surfshark VPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Startpreis | 1,99 €/Monat | $0 (Free Community Edition) |
| Kostenloser Plan | ❌ (Nur 7-tägige mobile Testversion) | ✅ |
| Pre-built Vpn Server Network | ✅ 3,200+ servers | ❌ (self-hosted) |
| Unbegrenzte Geräte | ✅ | Depends on your server |
| Not-Aus-Schalter | ✅ | Manual setup required |
| Split-Tunneling | ✅ (Whitelister) | ✅ (via configuration) |
| Audited No Logs Policy | ✅ (Deloitte + Cure53) | You control logging |
| Mobile Apps | ✅ Native iOS and Android | ✅ OpenVPN Connect |
| Am besten geeignet für | Consumer online privacy | Custom business vpn setup |
1. Vpn Server Network & Server Locations
Surfshark VPN: Surfshark offers 3,200+ vpn servers in 100 countries. That includes physical and virtual servers in regions with limited infrastructure. You can also pick obfuscated servers for restricted areas or rotate through multiple servers automatically using its ip rotator feature.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN has no built-in server network. You install openvpn on a server you control or rent. That means full control over server locations, but also full responsibility for setup, maintenance, and uptime. Most vpn providers actually use the openvpn protocol behind their own networks.
2. Benutzerfreundlichkeit & Einrichtung
Surfshark VPN: Install Surfshark in two clicks. The Surfshark app handles login, server selection, and vpn protocols automatically. Surfshark’s windows app, mobile apps, and browser extensions all share a consistent design. According to G2 reviews, the simple interface is one of the most frequently praised features.
OpenVPN: Setup requires technical knowledge. You’ll need to install openvpn, configure certificates, and edit .ovpn files. The openvpn gui helps, but mobile devices and desktop systems still need manual configuration. OpenVPN connect is more polished than the bare community edition, but neither matches a consumer vpn app’s ease.
3. Security & Encryption Protocols
Surfshark VPN: Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption with WireGuard, IKEv2, and the openvpn protocol. Surfshark encrypted traffic also includes a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and Camouflage Mode for obfuscation. Surfshark security has been audited by Cure53 and Deloitte for both apps and the no logs policy.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN is considered one of the safest vpn protocols ever built. It uses secure sockets layer and the openssl library for authentication openvpn handshakes. You can pick your encryption algorithms, encryption ciphers, and key length. Perfect forward secrecy and a hash message authentication code add another layer of security.
⚠️ Warnung: Encryption protocols only protect you if configured correctly. Most vpn users are safer with an audited vpn company than a self-built setup they don’t fully understand.
4. Geschwindigkeit und Leistung
Surfshark VPN: Speed tests show Surfshark VPN delivers high download speeds, especially using WireGuard. Speeds vary based on server distance and your underlying internet connection. According to TechRadar, Surfshark’s apps maintain strong throughput across most server locations for streaming.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN is slower than newer tunneling protocols like WireGuard. OpenVPN udp performs better than openvpn tcp for streaming, while tcp is more reliable. Your throughput depends heavily on your server’s CPU and bandwidth, which you provide yourself.
5. Datenschutz & Protokollierung
Surfshark VPN: Surfshark’s privacy policy commits to a no logs policy. The vpn service only retains IP addresses temporarily after a session ends. Deloitte verified this independently in 2023. Visited ip addresses, browsing history, and network traffic are not stored.
OpenVPN: Logging behavior depends on you. The openvpn server you run can log everything or nothing. That gives technical users complete control over what data traffic gets stored. The trade-off is you also bear the legal responsibility for your private networks.
6. Unique Features (Alternative ID, MultiHop, Split Tunneling)
Surfshark VPN: Surfshark stacks extras: alternative id with virtual phone number, ip rotation, CleanWeb ad and malware blocker, webcam protection, and a built-in antivirus on higher tiers. The split tunneling feature (Whitelister) lets you exclude apps from the vpn tunnel.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN’s strength is the protocol itself, not features. You don’t get ad blocking, antivirus, or alternative id. What you do get is a custom security protocol foundation for creating vpn tunnels exactly the way you want. Plugins and scripts extend functionality further.
7. Streaming & Entsperren
Surfshark VPN: Surfshark works with major streaming platforms including Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. The same ip address is shared among Surfshark users, helping bypass geo-blocks. Static ip addresses are available as an add-on for users who need a consistent IP.
OpenVPN: Self-hosted OpenVPN typically can’t unblock streaming. Streaming services block residential and data center IP addresses linked to single users. A shared ip address pool, which paid vpn services run, is what makes streaming work.
8. Device & Platform Support
Surfshark VPN: One Surfshark subscription supports unlimited connections on all your devices. Apps cover Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Apple TV, and even routers. Browser extensions exist for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN connect and openvpn client software runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and even lesser-known systems like Tomato. Device count depends on your openvpn server tier or hardware. The free tier limits concurrent vpn connections.
9. Preisgestaltung und Kosten
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side. Both follow very different models.
| Tarifstufe | Surfshark VPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Frei | ❌ (7-tägige mobile Testversion) | ✅ Community Edition |
| Eintrag | 1,99 $/Monat (24 Monate) | $7/monat |
| Mittlere Preisklasse | 3,19 €/Monat (12 Monate) | — |
| Monatlich | 15,45 $/Monat | — |
| Unternehmen | Custom (Surfshark One+) | Brauch |
Surfshark VPN: Surfshark pricing rewards long commitments. The two-year plan at $1.99/month is one of the cheapest premium vpn deals around. You also get a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial via Google Pay or App Store.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN free works for hobby projects. The paid Growth tier at $7/month covers small teams needing remote access. Enterprise pricing is custom, and you’ll add server costs (cloud or self-hosted hardware) on top.
Verschiedene Szenarien
| Falls Sie Folgendes benötigen: | Wählen | Warum |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget for a consumer vpn | Surfshark VPN | $1.99/mo on 24-month plan |
| Zero-cost self-hosted vpn | OpenVPN | Kostenlose Community-Edition |
| Streaming and online privacy | Surfshark VPN | Entsperrt Netflix, Hulu und Disney+ |
| Custom business vpn setup | OpenVPN | Site-to-site and remote access |
| Beginner-friendly mobile apps | Surfshark VPN | Two-click connect on Android app |
| Full control over encryption | OpenVPN | Pick ciphers and key length |
💰 Ihr Budget
OpenVPN free wins on raw cost if you already own server infrastructure. Surfshark wins overall value because you don’t pay extra for hosting, IP addresses, or maintenance time.
🔌 Dein Tech-Stack
If you run Linux servers and know command line basics, OpenVPN fits your stack. If you just want apps on your phone and laptop, Surfshark’s mobile apps are easier.
🎓 Dein Erfahrungslevel
OpenVPN expects you to handle certificates, ports, and openvpn configuration files. Surfshark expects you to tap a button. Pick based on your comfort with networking.
🆓 Kostenlose Testversionen und Demos
OpenVPN’s community edition is free forever for personal use. Surfshark offers a 7-day mobile trial plus a 30-day money back guarantee on all paid plans.
🛟 Supportoptionen
Surfshark has 24/7 live chat and email for consumer questions. OpenVPN relies more on forums and documentation for community edition users, with paid tiers getting business support.
🔐 Datenschutz und Datensicherheit
OpenVPN gives you full ownership of logs and data flow. Surfshark trades self-control for an audited vpn provider that doesn’t store your browsing history.
Umstellungsleitfaden
Nutzen Sie bereits eines dieser Tools? Hier erfahren Sie, was Sie beim Wechsel erwartet.
🔄 Switching from Surfshark VPN to OpenVPN?
✅ Was Sie davon haben:
- Open source vpn protocol you can audit yourself
- Full control over server locations and openvpn server configuration
- Zero recurring vpn subscription fees on community edition
❌ Was Sie verlieren werden:
- 3,200+ pre-built Surfshark servers across 100 countries
- CleanWeb ad and malware blocker plus alternative id
- Streaming unblocking, since self-hosted IPs get blocked
📋 So wechseln Sie:
- Cancel Surfshark within the 30-day money back guarantee window
- Rent a cloud server or use a home server, then install openvpn access server
- Install the openvpn connect client and import your .ovpn profile
🔄 Switching from OpenVPN to Surfshark VPN?
✅ Was Sie davon haben:
- Ready-to-use Surfshark app with unlimited connections
- Audited no logs policy by Deloitte and Cure53
- Built-in features like webcam protection and ip rotator
❌ Was Sie verlieren werden:
- Hands-on control over openvpn connections and logs
- Custom encryption protocols and key configuration
- Free unlimited use of the open source openvpn protocol
📋 So wechseln Sie:
- Decommission your openvpn server when convenient (no rush)
- Sign up for Surfshark and pick a two-year plan for best pricing
- Install Surfshark on all your devices, including mobile and router
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users, small teams, and consumer use cases. We didn’t deeply benchmark enterprise OpenVPN access server deployments at scale. We also didn’t test every Surfshark feature on Apple TV or router firmware. Static ip addresses and bulk licensing options weren’t part of this review. If you’re managing 100+ employees or running specialized private networks, your priorities may differ from what we’ve covered here. Our observations come from May 2026 versions and may shift as both products evolve.
Endgültiges Urteil
| Kategorie | Gewinner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing for Consumer Use | Surfshark VPN |
| 🆓 Free Tier Availability | OpenVPN |
| 🚀 Vpn Server Network | Surfshark VPN |
| ⚡ Speed (with WireGuard) | Surfshark VPN |
| 🎯 Streaming Unblocking | Surfshark VPN |
| 👶 Benutzerfreundlichkeit | Surfshark VPN |
| 🔌 Custom Configuration | OpenVPN |
| 🏆 Gesamtsieger | Surfshark VPN |
🏆 WINNER: SURFSHARK VPN
Surfshark VPN wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Ideal für: Everyday online privacy, streaming, families with multiple devices, and beginners who want a vpn that just works.
Surfshark VPN and OpenVPN solve different problems. Surfshark is a polished consumer vpn service ready to use out of the box. OpenVPN is a tunneling protocol and self-hosted access server for technical users.
OpenVPN remains excellent for developers, system admins, and kleine Unternehmen that want full control. The community edition is free, the openvpn protocol is open source, and you can pick exactly which encryption algorithms to use.
However, if you need a vpn for streaming, mobile devices, or daily online privacy without the technical work, Surfshark VPN is the better choice. The 30-day money back guarantee means you can try it risk-free.
Weitere Informationen zum Surfshark VPN im Vergleich
So schneidet Surfshark VPN im Vergleich zu anderen Anbietern ab:
Surfshark VPN vs. NordVPN
Surfshark VPN punktet in folgenden Kategorien: Unlimited device connections on one account, lower long-term pricing, alternative id feature
NordVPN punktet in folgenden Bereichen: Larger total server count, slightly higher speeds in some tests, longer brand history
Surfshark VPN vs ExpressVPN
Surfshark VPN punktet in folgenden Kategorien: Cheaper subscription cost, unlimited connections, included antivirus and CleanWeb blocker
ExpressVPN punktet in folgenden Kategorien: Trusted server technology, audited router firmware, premium customer support
Surfshark VPN vs Proton VPN
Surfshark VPN punktet in folgenden Kategorien: Cheaper paid plans, more server locations, included CleanWeb and alternative id tools
Proton VPN punktet in folgenden Bereichen: Switzerland privacy jurisdiction outside Nine Eyes, free unlimited-data tier, open-source apps
Surfshark VPN vs Privater Internetzugang
Surfshark VPN punktet in folgenden Kategorien: Better app design across mobile devices, friendlier interface for beginners, more bundled extras
Private Internet Access gewinnt in folgenden Kategorien: Open-source apps, advanced configuration depth, lower long-term pricing on some plans
Mehr zu OpenVPN im Vergleich
So schneidet OpenVPN im Vergleich zu anderen Anbietern ab:
OpenVPN vs. NordVPN
OpenVPN gewinnt in folgenden Bereichen: Open source code transparency, self-hosted control, free community edition for personal use
NordVPN punktet in folgenden Bereichen: Ready-to-use vpn server network, NordLynx speed, no setup or maintenance work
OpenVPN vs. ExpressVPN
OpenVPN gewinnt in folgenden Bereichen: Free tier, full control over openvpn server configuration, no ongoing subscription costs
ExpressVPN punktet in folgenden Kategorien: Polished mobile apps and browser extensions, premium support, no technical setup needed
OpenVPN vs PureVPN
OpenVPN gewinnt in folgenden Bereichen: Open source transparency, custom encryption protocols, no recurring vpn subscription
PureVPN punktet in folgenden Kategorien: Built-in streaming support, dedicated ip address option, consumer-friendly mobile apps
OpenVPN vs CyberGhost
OpenVPN gewinnt in folgenden Bereichen: Self-hosted privacy ownership, free community edition, flexible vpn configuration options
CyberGhost gewinnt in: Pre-configured streaming-focused servers, large server count, beginner-friendly interface
Häufig gestellte Fragen
Ist Surfshark VPN vertrauenswürdig?
Yes. The Surfshark review consensus from Deloitte and Cure53 audits confirms its no logs policy. Reviewers who tested Surfshark report no leaks of sensitive data, and Surfshark VPN continues to publish transparency reports.
What is the difference between a virtual private network and OpenVPN?
A virtual private network is the technology. OpenVPN is one protocol used to build virtual private networks, alongside other vpn protocols.
Is OpenVPN software compatible with most services?
Yes. OpenVPN software runs on any openvpn compatible service and works through your internet service provider. Most vpn protocols a good vpn uses include OpenVPN.
Ist OpenVPN kostenlos?
The Community Edition is openvpn free forever. Paid OpenVPN Access Server plans start at $7/month for businesses needing managed remote access for vpn users.
Ist OpenVPN sicher?
Yes. OpenVPN is one of the safest vpn protocols when set up correctly. It uses AES encryption, secure sockets layer authentication, and benefits from open source code reviews.
Wie viel kostet Surfshark VPN pro Monat?
Surfshark VPN pricing starts at $1.99/month on the 24-month plan. The 12-month plan is $3.19/month, and the monthly plan is $15.45.
Is OpenVPN better than Surfshark VPN?
It depends on your needs. OpenVPN is better for technical users wanting full control. Surfshark wins for everyday users wanting easy online privacy across all your devices.
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