⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Surfshark VPN starts at $1.99/month vs OpenVPN at $0 free or $7/month paid
- Best for: Surfshark for everyday users wanting online privacy on multiple devices, OpenVPN for businesses building their own private network
- Key difference: 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 question.
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.
Overview
This Surfshark VPN vs OpenVPN comparison covers pricing, security, 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.
What is Surfshark VPN?
Surfshark VPN is a premium vpn service based in the Netherlands.
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 Pricing
Here’s what Surfshark pricing looks like in 2026. The two-year plan is the cheapest option.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 24 Months +3 Extra | $1.99/month | Long-term savings on a vpn subscription |
| 12 Months +3 Extra | $3.19/month | Mid-term commitment for individuals |
| 1 Month | $15.45/month | Short-term testing or temporary use |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: 7-day free trial available for Android app and iOS users via Google Pay or App Store. No free trial for desktop signups.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day money back guarantee on all paid plans, no questions asked.
📌 Note: Students registered with Student Beans receive a 15% discount on Surfshark plans. The Surfshark subscription auto-renews at standard rates after the initial term.
⚠️ Warning: Surfshark prices typically increase after the initial subscription term ends. Check your account before renewal to avoid surprise charges on the next billing cycle.
Key Benefits of Surfshark VPN
Here’s what makes Surfshark VPN worth considering:
- Unlimited Device Connections: One Surfshark subscription covers all your devices at once. There’s no cap on how many phones, laptops, or routers you connect.
- Audited No Logs Policy: 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 Feature: 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
Our writer 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 Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 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
❌ Cons
- 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
What is 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 Pricing
Here’s what OpenVPN costs in 2026. The free tier covers basic use cases.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free (Community Edition) | $0 | Personal use and small private networks |
| Growth | $7/month | Small business remote access |
| Enterprise | Custom | Large organizations with site-to-site needs |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: The OpenVPN Community Edition is openvpn free forever. The cloud product offers a free tier with limited concurrent connections before paid plans begin.
Money-back guarantee: OpenVPN doesn’t advertise a standard money back guarantee window. Cancel anytime since billing is monthly on paid tiers.
📌 Note: The free community edition gives you a vpn client and openvpn server. You handle vpn configuration, server costs, and updates yourself.
⚠️ Warning: The free version requires manual configuration and a server you control. You need technical knowledge to install openvpn and maintain it long term.
Key Benefits of OpenVPN
Here’s what makes OpenVPN worth considering:
- Open Source Code: OpenVPN’s open source code lets developers inspect and audit the source. Community scrutiny helps catch bugs faster than closed-source vpn services.
- Strong Encryption Algorithms: OpenVPN supports AES, Blowfish, and other encryption ciphers. It uses the openssl library and supports custom encryption keys.
- TCP and UDP Support: 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.
- Site-to-Site Networking: 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 Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Open source vpn protocol with community scrutiny
- Free Community Edition for personal use
- Strong AES encryption and SSL/TLS authentication
- Works on most operating systems and devices
- Flexible vpn configuration for advanced users
❌ Cons
- Complex manual configuration for beginners
- No built-in server network like Surfshark VPN
- Slower than newer protocols like WireGuard
- You handle hosting, updates, and maintenance yourself
Feature Comparison
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.
| Feature | Surfshark VPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $1.99/month | $0 (Free Community Edition) |
| Free Plan | ❌ (7-day mobile trial only) | ✅ |
| Pre-built Vpn Server Network | ✅ 3,200+ servers | ❌ (self-hosted) |
| Unlimited Devices | ✅ | Depends on your server |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | 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 |
| Best For | 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. Ease of Use & Setup
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.
⚠️ Warning: 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. Speed & Performance
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. Privacy & Logging
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 & Unblocking
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. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side. Both follow very different models.
| Plan Tier | Surfshark VPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ❌ (7-day mobile trial) | ✅ Community Edition |
| Entry | $1.99/month (24mo) | $7/month |
| Mid-tier | $3.19/month (12mo) | — |
| Monthly | $15.45/month | — |
| Enterprise | Custom (Surfshark One+) | Custom |
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.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget for a consumer vpn | Surfshark VPN | $1.99/mo on 24-month plan |
| Zero-cost self-hosted vpn | OpenVPN | Free Community Edition |
| Streaming and online privacy | Surfshark VPN | Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, 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 |
💰 Your 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.
🔌 Your 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.
🎓 Your Experience Level
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.
🆓 Free Trials and 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.
🛟 Support Options
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.
🔐 Data Privacy and Security
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.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Surfshark VPN to OpenVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 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
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 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
📋 How to switch:
- 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?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 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
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Hands-on control over openvpn connections and logs
- Custom encryption protocols and key configuration
- Free unlimited use of the open source openvpn protocol
📋 How to switch:
- 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.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing for Consumer Use | Surfshark VPN |
| 🆓 Free Tier Availability | OpenVPN |
| 🚀 Vpn Server Network | Surfshark VPN |
| ⚡ Speed (with WireGuard) | Surfshark VPN |
| 🎯 Streaming Unblocking | Surfshark VPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | Surfshark VPN |
| 🔌 Custom Configuration | OpenVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Surfshark VPN |
🏆 WINNER: SURFSHARK VPN
Surfshark VPN wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Best for: 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 small businesses 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.
More of Surfshark VPN Compared
Here’s how Surfshark VPN stacks up against other competitors:
Surfshark VPN vs NordVPN
Surfshark VPN wins on: Unlimited device connections on one account, lower long-term pricing, alternative id feature
NordVPN wins on: Larger total server count, slightly higher speeds in some tests, longer brand history
Surfshark VPN vs ExpressVPN
Surfshark VPN wins on: Cheaper subscription cost, unlimited connections, included antivirus and CleanWeb blocker
ExpressVPN wins on: Trusted server technology, audited router firmware, premium customer support
Surfshark VPN vs Proton VPN
Surfshark VPN wins on: Cheaper paid plans, more server locations, included CleanWeb and alternative id tools
Proton VPN wins on: Switzerland privacy jurisdiction outside Nine Eyes, free unlimited-data tier, open-source apps
Surfshark VPN vs Private Internet Access
Surfshark VPN wins on: Better app design across mobile devices, friendlier interface for beginners, more bundled extras
Private Internet Access wins on: Open-source apps, advanced configuration depth, lower long-term pricing on some plans
More of OpenVPN Compared
Here’s how OpenVPN stacks up against other competitors:
OpenVPN vs NordVPN
OpenVPN wins on: Open source code transparency, self-hosted control, free community edition for personal use
NordVPN wins on: Ready-to-use vpn server network, NordLynx speed, no setup or maintenance work
OpenVPN vs ExpressVPN
OpenVPN wins on: Free tier, full control over openvpn server configuration, no ongoing subscription costs
ExpressVPN wins on: Polished mobile apps and browser extensions, premium support, no technical setup needed
OpenVPN vs PureVPN
OpenVPN wins on: Open source transparency, custom encryption protocols, no recurring vpn subscription
PureVPN wins on: Built-in streaming support, dedicated ip address option, consumer-friendly mobile apps
OpenVPN vs CyberGhost
OpenVPN wins on: Self-hosted privacy ownership, free community edition, flexible vpn configuration options
CyberGhost wins on: Pre-configured streaming-focused servers, large server count, beginner-friendly interface
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark VPN trustworthy?
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.
Is OpenVPN free?
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.
Is OpenVPN safe to use?
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.
How much is Surfshark VPN per month?
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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