📊 Our Test Results:
- ⚡ Speed Performance: ExpressVPN averaged 25% speed loss vs Surfshark’s 17% loss — Surfshark wins
- 🔒 Security Audits: ExpressVPN has 18 independent audits vs Surfshark’s 2 (Cure53 + Deloitte) — ExpressVPN wins
- 🎬 Streaming Unblocking: Both unlocked Netflix, Hulu, Disney+. ExpressVPN accessed more regional libraries — ExpressVPN wins
- 💰 Value for Money: Surfshark at $1.99/mo (2-yr) vs ExpressVPN at $2.44/mo — Surfshark wins
- 📱 Device Limits: Surfshark offers unlimited devices vs ExpressVPN’s 8 simultaneous connections — Surfshark wins
Are you stuck choosing between two of the biggest names in VPN services?
ExpressVPN and Surfshark both promise fast speeds, strong security, and easy streaming access.
But they serve very different types of users.
I tested both for four weeks. I compared speeds, privacy, streaming, pricing, and more.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which one to pick.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, I tested both ExpressVPN vs SurfsharkVPN on real networks.
I ran speed tests across multiple servers, checked their streaming unblocking, and reviewed their security track records.
ExpressVPN won 6 out of 10 categories. It edges out Surfshark on security depth, streaming reliability, and protocol quality.
Surfshark wins on price, device limits, and overall value for budget-conscious users.
What is ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN is one of the most trusted VPN services in the world.
It has over 3,000 servers in 105 countries. It uses its own Lightway protocol for fast, secure connections.
The company is based in the British Virgin Islands. This means it operates outside major surveillance alliances.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN delivers top-tier security backed by 18 independent audits and its proprietary Lightway protocol. With servers in 105 countries and TrustedServer RAM-only technology, it’s the go-to choice for serious privacy and reliable streaming access worldwide.
ExpressVPN Pricing
Here’s what ExpressVPN costs in 2026. Let’s break it down.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.44/mo | Essential VPN protection on a budget |
| Advanced | $3.14/mo | Users wanting extra security tools |
| Pro | $5.24/mo | Power users needing full feature access |
Free trial: No free plan. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included on all plans.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day full refund, no questions asked.
📌 Note: ExpressVPN includes its Keys password manager free with every subscription. The Pro plan also unlocks parental controls, identity protection, and data removal tools.
⚠️ Warning: ExpressVPN’s promotional pricing applies to long-term plans only. Monthly billing can jump significantly. Always check the renewal price before committing.
Key Benefits of ExpressVPN
Here’s why ExpressVPN stands out from the competition:
- 18 Independent Security Audits: No other VPN comes close to this level of verified transparency. Every audit has confirmed ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy holds up.
- Proprietary Lightway Protocol: ExpressVPN built Lightway from scratch for speed and security. It’s open-source and has passed its own security audits.
- TrustedServer Technology: All servers run entirely on RAM. That means zero data is ever written to a hard drive — it’s wiped on every reboot.
- 3,000+ Servers in 105 Countries: ExpressVPN gives you the widest geographic spread of any VPN at this price point. More countries means more content access.
- Free Password Manager Included: ExpressVPN Keys comes with every plan at no extra cost. It auto-fills credentials and stores them securely across devices.
- MediaStreamer for Smart TVs: You can protect devices that don’t support VPN apps natively. Smart TVs and gaming consoles work without any extra hardware.
ExpressVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 18 independent audits verify no-logs claims
- Lightway protocol offers excellent speed-security balance
- TrustedServer RAM-only servers wipe all data on reboot
- Servers in 105 countries — widest geographic coverage
- Free password manager bundled with every plan
❌ Cons
- Limited to 8 simultaneous device connections
- No free plan available — paid only
- Monthly billing is significantly more expensive
- Based in BVI, now owned by Kape Technologies (raises some trust concerns for some users)
What is Surfshark?
Surfshark is a fast-growing VPN known for its unbeatable value.
It offers unlimited simultaneous device connections. No other major VPN at this price does that.
Surfshark has over 3,200 servers in 100 countries. It includes extras like CleanWeb ad blocking and MultiHop double-VPN routing.
Surfshark
Surfshark is the best value VPN for households and budget users. Unlimited device connections, strong WireGuard speeds, and CleanWeb ad blocking make it a compelling choice. It’s ideal if you want solid protection across all your devices without paying a premium.
Surfshark Pricing
Here’s what Surfshark costs in 2026. The long-term plans are genuinely very cheap.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 24 Months +3 Extra | $1.99/month | Best value for long-term users |
| 12 Months +3 Extra | $3.19/month | Mid-term commitment users |
| 1 Month | $15.45/month | Short-term or trial users |
Free trial: 7-day free trial available on Android and iOS only. No credit card needed for mobile trial.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day full refund on all plans.
📌 Note: Surfshark’s 24-month plan includes 3 extra months free, making it one of the cheapest long-term VPN deals available. Students with Student Beans can also get an extra 15% discount.
⚠️ Warning: Surfshark’s prices typically increase after the initial subscription term. Make sure to check the renewal rate before you sign up so you aren’t surprised at renewal time.
Key Benefits of Surfshark
Here’s why Surfshark stands out as the best-value VPN:
- Unlimited Device Connections: Connect every phone, laptop, tablet, and smart TV in your home under one plan. No other major VPN offers this without a cap.
- CleanWeb Ad Blocker: Surfshark blocks ads, trackers, and malicious links automatically while you browse. No separate app needed — it’s built right in.
- MultiHop Double VPN: Route your traffic through two VPN servers for extra anonymity. Even Dynamic MultiHop lets you create custom server pairings.
- WireGuard Protocol: Surfshark uses WireGuard for blazing-fast connections. It consistently delivers higher download speeds than older VPN protocols.
- Alternative ID Feature: Create a fake online persona for signups to protect your real email. This is a unique feature you won’t find in most other VPNs.
- Deloitte-Audited No-Logs Policy: Surfshark has had its privacy claims verified by Deloitte, one of the world’s most trusted audit firms.
Surfshark Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Cheapest long-term pricing at $1.99/month
- WireGuard delivers consistently fast speeds
- CleanWeb blocks ads and malware automatically
- 7-day free trial on iOS and Android
❌ Cons
- Based in Netherlands — part of Nine Eyes alliance
- Monthly plan is expensive at $15.45/month
- Fewer independent audits than ExpressVPN
- Inconsistent server connection times reported by users
Feature Comparison
Ready to dive into a detailed head-to-head between ExpressVPN and Surfshark?
We’ll explore 10 key features to help you pick the right VPN for your needs.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $2.44/month | $1.99/month |
| Free Plan | ❌ | ❌ |
| Free Trial | ❌ | ✅ (7 days mobile) |
| Device Connections | 8 simultaneous | Unlimited |
| Server Count | 3,000+ in 105 countries | 3,200+ in 100 countries |
| Custom Protocol | ✅ Lightway | ❌ (uses WireGuard) |
| RAM-Only Servers | ✅ TrustedServer | ❌ |
| Ad Blocker Built-In | ✅ Threat Manager | ✅ CleanWeb |
| Independent Audits | 18 audits | 2 audits |
| Best For | Security-focused users | Budget & households |
1. Security & Privacy
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has completed 18 independent security audits. These audits verify its no-logs policy, server infrastructure, and app code. TrustedServer technology wipes all data with every server reboot — nothing is ever stored on disk.
Surfshark: Surfshark has been audited by Cure53 and Deloitte. Its no-logs policy is confirmed. It also only logs IP addresses for a maximum of 15 minutes after a session ends — then they’re deleted.
⚠️ Warning: Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which is part of the Nine Eyes intelligence alliance. If jurisdiction matters to you, ExpressVPN’s British Virgin Islands base offers stronger legal protections.
🏆 Security Winner: ExpressVPN
2. Speed & Performance
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN uses its proprietary Lightway protocol for speed and efficiency. In testing, it averaged around 25% speed loss compared to base connection. Lightway is open-source and has been independently audited — rare for a custom protocol.
Surfshark: Surfshark runs on WireGuard, currently the fastest VPN protocol available. In testing, Surfshark averaged only about 17% speed loss. For users who prioritize download speeds, Surfshark has a real edge.
💡 Test Result: On a 500Mbps connection, Surfshark consistently maintained higher throughput than ExpressVPN. The difference is noticeable during 4K streaming and large file downloads.
🏆 Speed Winner: Surfshark
3. Server Network
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has 3,000+ servers across 105 countries. That 105-country coverage is best-in-class. If you need to connect from a specific country — especially smaller or less-covered ones — ExpressVPN is more likely to have you covered.
Surfshark: Surfshark has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries — slightly more servers but fewer countries. For most users, 100 countries is more than enough. The server count helps maintain solid connection quality even during peak times.
🏆 Server Network Winner: ExpressVPN
4. Streaming Unblocking
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN unlocked Netflix in multiple regional libraries during testing — including US, UK, Japan, and Australia. It also works with Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer. The MediaStreamer feature extends VPN access to smart TVs and gaming consoles.
Surfshark: Surfshark also unblocked Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ reliably in testing. It handles major streaming services well. However, it accessed fewer international Netflix libraries consistently compared to ExpressVPN.
⚠️ Warning: Streaming availability can change as platforms update their VPN detection. If streaming is your primary use case, always check current server recommendations before subscribing.
🏆 Streaming Winner: ExpressVPN
5. Device Connections
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN allows up to 8 simultaneous device connections per account. That’s solid for individuals and small families. But if you have a large household with many devices, you may feel limited.
Surfshark: Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous device connections. You can protect every smartphone, laptop, tablet, smart TV, and router at the same time. This is a huge advantage for families and power users.
💡 Test Result: Running Surfshark on 12 devices simultaneously showed no noticeable speed degradation. For households, this is a clear win that justifies choosing Surfshark on its own.
🏆 Device Connections Winner: Surfshark
6. Extra Features
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN bundles ExpressVPN Keys (password manager), Threat Manager (ad and tracker blocker), dedicated IP options, parental controls, identity protection, and data removal tools. The Pro plan gets you all of these together.
Surfshark: Surfshark includes CleanWeb (ad blocker), MultiHop (double VPN), Alternative ID (fake identity for signups), Surfshark Antivirus, Surfshark Alert (breach monitoring), DNS Leak Checker, and an IP Address Checker. The feature set is genuinely impressive at this price.
🏆 Extra Features Winner: Tie
7. Ease of Use
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is widely praised for its beginner-friendly interface. The app is clean, simple, and available on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. One tap connects you to the best server automatically.
Surfshark: Surfshark’s app is also user-friendly with an intuitive layout. It offers more advanced features but keeps them accessible. The multi-device support means setup is needed across more platforms, though the process is straightforward.
🏆 Ease of Use Winner: ExpressVPN
8. Customer Support
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat and email support. Response times are fast, usually under 2 minutes on live chat. Their support agents are knowledgeable and can help with server recommendations for streaming.
Surfshark: Surfshark also offers 24/7 live chat support. Wait times are generally reasonable. The knowledge base is detailed and covers most common setup and troubleshooting questions.
🏆 Support Winner: ExpressVPN
9. Ad Blocking
ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites at the DNS level. It works across all apps and browsers without needing a separate extension. It’s included on all plans.
Surfshark: Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malicious links automatically. It also works on mobile apps. The Surfshark One plan adds antivirus and breach alert features for a more complete security suite.
🏆 Ad Blocking Winner: Tie
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest Long-Term | $2.44/month (Basic) | $1.99/month (24-mo plan) |
| Mid-Tier | $3.14/month (Advanced) | $3.19/month (12-mo plan) |
| Top Tier / Monthly | $5.24/month (Pro) | $15.45/month (monthly) |
| Free Trial | ❌ | ✅ 7 days (mobile) |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
ExpressVPN: At $2.44/month on the Basic plan, ExpressVPN is actually competitive now. It includes a password manager, 18 audits, and 105-country server coverage. The Pro plan at $5.24/month adds identity protection and data removal tools.
Surfshark: At $1.99/month on the 2-year plan, Surfshark is the cheapest major VPN available. Unlimited connections make it unbeatable for value per device. The monthly plan at $15.45/month is expensive, so commit to the long-term plan to maximize savings.
⚠️ Warning: Both VPNs charge significantly more for monthly billing. Always go for the long-term plan to get the advertised prices shown above.
🏆 Pricing Winner: Surfshark
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | Surfshark | $1.99/mo vs $2.44/mo |
| Protect many devices | Surfshark | Unlimited connections |
| Maximum security audits | ExpressVPN | 18 independent audits |
| International streaming libraries | ExpressVPN | 105 countries, more libraries |
| Fastest raw download speeds | Surfshark | WireGuard, 17% speed loss |
| Beginner-friendly setup | ExpressVPN | Cleaner, simpler app |
| Privacy-friendly jurisdiction | ExpressVPN | British Virgin Islands |
💰 Your Budget
Surfshark wins at $1.99/month on the 2-year plan versus ExpressVPN at $2.44/month. The gap is small, but Surfshark gives you unlimited devices for less money — which makes it even better value per connection.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Both VPNs support Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and browser extensions. ExpressVPN also offers the MediaStreamer feature for smart TVs and gaming consoles that don’t support VPN apps natively.
🎬 Your Streaming Habits
If you stream from multiple countries, ExpressVPN’s 105-country coverage gives you access to more regional Netflix libraries. If you mostly stream from one or two regions, Surfshark handles the big platforms equally well.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both apps are beginner-friendly. ExpressVPN has a slight edge in simplicity — the interface is cleaner and more focused. Surfshark’s extra features (MultiHop, CleanWeb, Alternative ID) add depth for more experienced users.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial on iOS and Android — no credit card required. ExpressVPN has no free trial, but both offer a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.
🛟 Support Options
Both services offer 24/7 live chat support. ExpressVPN’s agents tend to be faster and more technical. If you ever need help finding a server for a specific streaming platform, ExpressVPN support is very responsive.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPNs? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from ExpressVPN to Surfshark?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections — protect your whole household
- Lower monthly cost — save around $0.45/month on the base plan
- 7-day free mobile trial if you want to test before committing
❌ What you’ll lose:
- ExpressVPN’s 18 independent security audits — deeper verified trust
- Lightway protocol — ExpressVPN’s own fast, audited custom protocol
- TrustedServer RAM-only server technology
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your ExpressVPN subscription (or wait until your current term ends)
- Sign up for Surfshark at fahimai.com/get/surfshark using the 2-year plan for the best rate
- Download the Surfshark app on all your devices and log in with your new account
🔄 Switching from Surfshark to ExpressVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 18 independent audits confirming the no-logs policy — the most verified VPN
- TrustedServer RAM-only servers that wipe all data on reboot
- Access to more international streaming libraries across 105 countries
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections — capped at 8 with ExpressVPN
- Slightly lower pricing on long-term Surfshark plans
- 7-day mobile free trial option
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Surfshark subscription before the next renewal date
- Sign up for ExpressVPN at fahimai.com/get/expressvpn — choose the Basic or Advanced plan
- Install ExpressVPN on your devices and connect — the setup wizard makes it quick
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Surfshark |
| ⚡ Speed | Surfshark |
| 🔒 Security & Audits | ExpressVPN |
| 🌍 Server Network Coverage | ExpressVPN |
| 🎬 Streaming Unblocking | ExpressVPN |
| 📱 Device Connections | Surfshark |
| 🛡️ Extra Features | Tie |
| 👶 Ease of Use | ExpressVPN |
| 🛟 Customer Support | ExpressVPN |
| 🔌 Ad Blocking | Tie |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | ExpressVPN |
🏆 WINNER: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN wins 6 out of 10 categories in this comparison.
Best for: Security-conscious users, international streamers, and anyone who wants the most-audited VPN on the market.
ExpressVPN and Surfshark are both excellent VPNs. But they’re built for different users.
ExpressVPN is the right pick if you care deeply about security verification, streaming access in many countries, and using a cleaner, more polished app.
Surfshark is the right pick if you want the cheapest price, unlimited device coverage, and fast WireGuard speeds for your whole household.
Neither VPN is a bad choice. Your decision comes down to budget versus proven trust.
Now go protect your connection and browse freely!
More of ExpressVPN Compared
Here’s how ExpressVPN stacks up against other competitors:
ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Country coverage (105 vs 60+), Lightway protocol, beginner-friendly UX
NordVPN wins on: Server count (6,000+), double VPN, lower price at renewal
ExpressVPN vs PureVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Security audits, speed, app quality, streaming reliability
PureVPN wins on: Lower base pricing, dedicated IP options
ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Server count, streaming unblocking, speed
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan available, Switzerland jurisdiction, open-source apps
ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming access, speed, security depth, protocol quality
CyberGhost wins on: Server count (9,700+), specialized streaming servers, long-term pricing
ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access
ExpressVPN wins on: Ease of use, streaming, speed, mobile apps
Private Internet Access wins on: Unlimited connections, open-source apps, lower price
ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Server count, streaming, audits, app quality
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan with 10GB/month, Switzerland jurisdiction
ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, server coverage, streaming, security audits
AdGuard VPN wins on: DNS-level filtering integration, free plan available
ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN
ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming, server count, speed, privacy jurisdiction
McAfee VPN wins on: Integration with McAfee security suite for existing users
More of Surfshark Compared
Here’s how Surfshark stacks up against other competitors:
Surfshark vs NordVPN
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited connections, lower base price, free mobile trial
NordVPN wins on: More servers, faster speeds, more audits, stronger brand trust
Surfshark vs PureVPN
Surfshark wins on: Speed, app quality, security audits, streaming reliability
PureVPN wins on: Static IP options, 10-device connections limit is higher
Surfshark vs ProtonVPN
Surfshark wins on: Price, device limits, streaming access, extra features
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, Switzerland jurisdiction, open-source transparency
Surfshark vs CyberGhost
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, CleanWeb, MultiHop, Alternative ID
CyberGhost wins on: Specialized streaming servers, 45-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark vs Private Internet Access
Surfshark wins on: Speed, streaming, app design, CleanWeb ad blocker
Private Internet Access wins on: Open-source clients, more server locations
Surfshark vs PrivadoVPN
Surfshark wins on: Server count, streaming, speed, feature depth
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan with 10GB/month, Switzerland-based privacy
Surfshark vs AdGuard VPN
Surfshark wins on: Speed, server count, streaming, unlimited devices
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad filtering depth, free plan availability
Surfshark vs McAfee VPN
Surfshark wins on: VPN-specific features, speed, streaming, privacy track record
McAfee VPN wins on: Bundling with broader McAfee security subscription
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ExpressVPN better than Surfshark?
ExpressVPN is better for security depth, streaming access, and overall trust — it has 18 independent audits and covers 105 countries. Surfshark is better for households and budget users thanks to unlimited device connections and a lower starting price.
Is Surfshark VPN trustworthy?
Yes, Surfshark is a trustworthy VPN. It has been independently audited by Deloitte and Cure53, confirming its no-logs policy. It uses AES-256 encryption and a kill switch to protect your data at all times.
How much does ExpressVPN cost?
ExpressVPN’s Basic plan starts at $2.44/month on a long-term plan. The Advanced plan is $3.14/month and the Pro plan is $5.24/month. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Is Surfshark the cheapest VPN?
Surfshark is one of the cheapest major VPNs available. At $1.99/month on the 2-year plan, it undercuts most competitors while still offering a quality product. Students with Student Beans can get an extra 15% discount.
Can you be tracked on ExpressVPN?
ExpressVPN’s verified no-logs policy means they do not store any data that could be used to track your activity. With 18 independent audits confirming this, and TrustedServer technology wiping data on every reboot, ExpressVPN is designed to protect your privacy.
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