

⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Surfshark starts at $1.99/mo (2-year plan) vs AdGuard VPN at $2.40/mo (2-year plan)
- Best for: Surfshark for streaming and unlimited devices, AdGuard VPN for ad blocking and light browsing
- Key difference: Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections and 3,200+ servers; AdGuard VPN caps at 10 devices with 800+ servers
- Our pick: Surfshark for most users — faster speeds, larger server network, and better streaming support

Surfshark and AdGuard VPN target very different types of VPN users.
One gives you unlimited device connections and a massive server network.
The other bundles ad blocking with basic VPN protection.
This comparison breaks down both tools so you can pick the right fit.
If you want a full Surfshark review or AdGuard VPN review, check our detailed breakdowns linked below.
Overview
This SurfsharkVPN vs AdGuard VPN comparison covers pricing, features, and ease of use.
We also break down who each VPN service works best for.
Our sources include published specs, documentation, and user reviews.
By the end, you’ll know which VPN provider fits your needs.
What is Surfshark?
Surfshark is a VPN service that protects your internet connection.
It hides your real IP address and encrypts all your web traffic.
The Surfshark app works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.
It stands out by offering unlimited simultaneous connections on one plan.
Surfshark’s servers run on the OpenVPN protocol and WireGuard for fast speeds.

Surfshark
Surfshark VPN gives you unlimited device connections and 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. It uses AES-256 encryption and has a Deloitte-audited no-logs policy.
Surfshark Pricing
Here’s what a Surfshark subscription costs in 2026.
| 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 with savings |
| 1 Month | $15.45/month | Short-term or testing the service |
Pricing verified May 2026.

Free trial: Yes — 7-day free trial on Android and iOS devices. No credit card needed to start.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. Contact support within 30 days for a full refund.
📌 Note: Students get an extra 15% off through Student Beans. The 2-year plan includes 3 bonus months, so you pay for 24 and get 27 months total.
⚠️ Warning: Surfshark pricing increases after the first billing cycle. Renewal rates are higher than the introductory price, and 2-year plans cannot be renewed at the same rate.
Key Benefits of Surfshark
Here’s what makes Surfshark worth considering:
- Unlimited Devices: Connect every device in your household on one plan. No caps on simultaneous connections.
- Large Server Network: Over 3,200 VPN servers across 100 countries. That gives you plenty of server locations to choose from.
- CleanWeb Ad Blocker: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the VPN level. No extra browser extensions needed.
- MultiHop Connections: Route your network traffic through two VPN servers for extra privacy. Dynamic MultiHop lets you pick custom server pairings.
- Alternative ID: Create a fake online identity for signups. Protects your real IP address and personal info.
- Audited Privacy: Deloitte and Cure53 have verified Surfshark’s no-logs policy. Your browsing history stays private.
- Fast Speeds: All Surfshark servers run at 10 Gbps. The WireGuard protocol keeps download speeds high. Speed tests from review sites confirm strong upload speed as well.
- Dedicated IP Option: You can add a dedicated IP address in 20 locations. Surfshark also offers a virtual phone number and an IP rotator feature that rotates your virtual IP address automatically.
- Wide Platform Support: Surfshark’s Windows app, mobile apps, and browser extensions cover all your devices. It also works on Apple TV and Android TV for streaming on big screens.

What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Surfshark and spent several days exploring the platform. Here’s what stood out:

Surfshark Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on all plans
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries with fast speeds
- Independently audited no-logs policy by Deloitte
- Built-in ad blocker, split tunneling, and kill switch
- Works well with Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ for streaming
❌ Cons
- Renewal prices are much higher than introductory rates
- Based in Netherlands (part of Nine Eyes alliance)
- Some servers have inconsistent connection times
- Monthly plan at $15.45 is expensive for short-term use
What is AdGuard VPN?
AdGuard VPN is a privacy-focused VPN service from AdGuard Software Limited.
It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your real location.
The AdGuard VPN app works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux.
It pairs well with the AdGuard ad blocker for DNS-level ad blocking.
The VPN is especially useful on public wi fi networks where your data is at risk.

AdGuard VPN
AdGuard VPN uses a proprietary protocol and AES-256 encryption. It includes a free plan with 3 GB/month and supports up to 10 simultaneous connections on paid plans.
AdGuard VPN Pricing
Here’s what an AdGuard VPN subscription costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | $11.99/month | Short-term or testing the VPN service |
| 1 Year | $3.99/month | Annual commitment with savings |
| 2 Years | $2.40/month | Best value for long-term users |
Pricing verified May 2026.

Free trial: AdGuard VPN offers a free plan with 3 GB of data per month. No credit card needed.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on yearly and bi-annual plans.
📌 Note: AdGuard VPN accepts credit cards, PayPal, and crypto payments. The free version caps speeds at 20 Mbps and limits you to a few server locations.
⚠️ Warning: AdGuard VPN has not undergone any third-party audits to verify its no-logs claims. This is a gap compared to audited VPN providers like Surfshark.
Key Benefits of AdGuard VPN
Here’s what makes AdGuard VPN worth considering:
- DNS-Level Ad Blocking: Block ads and trackers through custom DNS servers. Works at the system level, not just in browsers.
- Free Plan Available: Get 3 GB of data every month at no cost. Good for light browsing and testing.
- Cyprus Jurisdiction: Based outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances. Also complies with GDPR rules.
- Proprietary Protocol: AdGuard VPN’s protocol masks VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic. Helps avoid VPN detection in some regions.
- Split Tunneling: Choose which apps or websites go through the VPN tunnel. Route the rest through your normal internet connection.
- Cross-Platform Support: Apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, and browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. AdGuard VPN’s apps are easy to use apps with a clean interface for mobile devices and desktop apps.

What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for AdGuard VPN and spent several days exploring the platform. Here’s what stood out:

AdGuard VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Free plan with 3 GB monthly data for light use
- DNS-level ad and tracker blocking built in
- Based in Cyprus, outside the 14 Eyes surveillance alliances
- Proprietary protocol disguises VPN traffic as HTTPS
❌ Cons
- Only 800+ servers in 65 locations — much smaller network
- No third-party security audits to verify claims
- Limited to 10 simultaneous connections on paid plans
- No 24/7 customer support — relies on a ticketing system
- Speeds can drop significantly on distant servers
Feature Comparison
Let’s compare Surfshark and AdGuard VPN across 10 key features. This will help you decide which VPN provider matches your needs.
| Feature | Surfshark | AdGuard VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $1.99/month | $2.40/month |
| Free Plan | ❌ (7-day trial) | ✅ (3 GB/month) |
| Server Network | 3,200+ in 100 countries | 800+ in 65 locations |
| Device Connections | Unlimited | 10 max |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ad Blocker | ✅ (CleanWeb) | ✅ (DNS-level) |
| Independent Audit | ✅ (Deloitte, Cure53) | ❌ |
| Streaming Support | Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ | Netflix, Disney+ (limited) |
| Best For | Families, streaming, privacy | Ad blocking, light browsing |
1. Server Network & Locations
Surfshark: Surfshark runs 3,200+ servers across 100 countries. All servers have been upgraded to 10 Gbps throughput. The large network means less crowding and more server locations to pick from.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN operates around 800 servers in 65+ locations across 53 countries. The network is much smaller, which can mean slower speeds during peak hours and fewer options for bypassing geo-restrictions.
2. Encryption & VPN Protocols
Surfshark: Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption with the WireGuard protocol by default. It also supports OpenVPN and IKEv2. WireGuard is known for fast download speeds and strong security. All data is Surfshark encrypted before leaving your device, keeping you safe on public wi fi.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN also uses AES-256 encryption but relies on its own proprietary protocol. This protocol masks VPN traffic as HTTPS, which can help avoid detection. However, it has not been independently audited, which raises transparency concerns.
⚠️ Warning: AdGuard VPN does not support WireGuard or OpenVPN. If you need a widely tested, open-source VPN protocol, Surfshark is the safer pick.
3. Device Connections
Surfshark: Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections on every plan. One subscription covers all your devices — phones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, and routers. This makes it ideal for families.
AdGuard VPN: Paid plans allow up to 10 simultaneous connections. The free version is limited to just 2 devices. For a household with many devices, this cap can be frustrating.
4. Ad & Malware Blocking
Surfshark: CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the VPN level. It works across all apps, not just your browser. You can also block cookie pop-ups automatically.

AdGuard VPN: Ad blocking is where AdGuard shines. The AdGuard DNS server blocks ads and trackers at the DNS level. When paired with the AdGuard ad blocker app, you get deep system-wide ad blocking on mobile devices.

5. Privacy & No-Logs Policy
Surfshark: Surfshark’s no-logs policy has been independently audited by both Deloitte and Cure53. The company does not log browsing history, session info, or network traffic. IP addresses are kept for a maximum of 15 minutes after a session ends.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN has a strict no-logs policy and does not record IP addresses, browsing history, or connection timestamps. However, this has not been verified by any third-party audit. AdGuard is based in Cyprus, which complies with GDPR.
6. Speed & Performance
Surfshark: Surfshark delivers fast download speeds, especially on the WireGuard protocol. All servers run at 10 Gbps capacity. Speed tests from multiple review sites confirm strong performance on both nearby and distant servers.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN’s performance is generally below average compared to other VPN services. Paid plans can reach around 58 Mbps average. The free version caps speeds at 20 Mbps, which limits streaming and data-intensive tasks.
7. Streaming & Unblocking
Surfshark: Surfshark can unblock Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and other streaming platforms without issues. Users report buffer-free streaming experiences. The large server network helps find working servers quickly.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN can unblock Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. However, it struggles with Amazon Prime and Peacock. Streaming performance varies, and some users report buffering on certain platforms.
8. Split Tunneling
Surfshark: The split tunneling feature (called Bypasser) lets you route certain websites and apps outside the VPN tunnel. This keeps your banking apps on your real IP address while everything else goes through the VPN.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN also supports split tunneling. You can choose which apps or certain websites bypass the VPN connection. The feature works on both desktop apps and mobile devices.
9. Customer Support
Surfshark: Surfshark offers 24/7 live chat support along with email support and a knowledge base. Response times are fast, and the support team handles VPN configuration and connection issues quickly.
AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN does not have 24/7 live chat. The support team works through a ticketing system and email. Response times can take longer compared to VPN providers with round-the-clock chat.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | Surfshark | AdGuard VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ❌ (7-day trial only) | ✅ (3 GB/month) |
| Monthly | $15.45/month | $11.99/month |
| 1 Year | $3.19/month | $3.99/month |
| 2 Years | $1.99/month | $2.40/month |
Surfshark: The 2-year plan at $1.99/month is cheaper than AdGuard VPN’s equivalent. You also get unlimited devices, a larger server network, and faster speeds. The monthly plan at $15.45 is expensive, though.
AdGuard VPN: The monthly plan at $11.99 is cheaper than Surfshark’s $15.45 monthly rate. AdGuard also offers a free plan. But the 2-year rate is $0.41 more per month than Surfshark, with fewer features included.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget (long-term) | Surfshark | $1.99/mo vs $2.40/mo on 2-year plans |
| Free VPN for light use | AdGuard VPN | 3 GB free plan available |
| Unlimited device connections | Surfshark | No cap vs 10 devices |
| Best ad and tracker blocking | AdGuard VPN | DNS-level blocking with AdGuard tools |
| Streaming Netflix and Disney+ | Surfshark | Better unblocking and faster speeds |
| Verified no-logs privacy | Surfshark | Deloitte + Cure53 audits |
💰 Your Budget
Surfshark is cheaper on 2-year plans at $1.99/month. AdGuard VPN is cheaper month-to-month at $11.99 and also offers a free plan for light browsing.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Surfshark has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. AdGuard VPN works well with the AdGuard ad blocker and AdGuard DNS for deep system-wide ad blocking on Android.
📺 Your Streaming Needs
Surfshark unblocks more streaming platforms and delivers faster speeds. AdGuard VPN can handle Netflix and Disney+ but struggles with Amazon Prime and Peacock.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both VPN services are easy to use with simple apps. Surfshark’s app has more features but is still beginner-friendly. AdGuard VPN is more bare-bones, which some users prefer.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial on mobile with a 30-day money-back guarantee. AdGuard VPN gives you a free plan with 3 GB/month — no credit card required.
🛟 Support Options
Surfshark has 24/7 live chat and email support. AdGuard VPN relies on a ticketing system without live chat, so response times may be slower.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Surfshark to AdGuard VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Free plan with 3 GB/month — no payment needed
- DNS-level ad blocking that pairs with AdGuard products
- Cyprus jurisdiction outside the 14 Eyes alliances
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Unlimited device connections (capped at 10 on AdGuard VPN)
- 3,200+ server network drops to 800+ servers
- Independently audited no-logs policy
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Surfshark subscription before renewal
- Download the AdGuard VPN app on your devices
- Create an AdGuard account and pick a plan (or use the free version)
🔄 Switching from AdGuard VPN to Surfshark?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections for all your devices
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries with 10 Gbps speeds
- WireGuard protocol and audited privacy policy
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Free plan with monthly data allowance
- DNS-level ad blocking paired with AdGuard apps
- Cyprus-based jurisdiction outside all surveillance alliances
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your AdGuard VPN subscription or let it expire
- Install Surfshark on your devices from surfshark.com
- Pick a plan and connect — Surfshark works on all your devices right away
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users and small households. We didn’t test enterprise VPN configurations, obfuscated servers, or how either VPN company handles data intensive tasks like video calls. We also didn’t evaluate Surfshark’s Windows app or its windows version for a Windows PC in depth, nor did we test the Android app on Android TV. Our observations are based on May 2026 versions — features and pricing may change. If you need a VPN for online gaming or advanced VPN configuration, your priorities may differ from what we’ve covered here.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing (Long-Term) | Surfshark |
| 🆓 Free Plan | AdGuard VPN |
| 🚀 Server Network | Surfshark |
| ⚡ Speed & Performance | Surfshark |
| 🛡️ Privacy & Audits | Surfshark |
| 🔌 Ad Blocking | AdGuard VPN |
| 📺 Streaming | Surfshark |
| 👶 Ease of Use | Tie |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Surfshark |
🏆 WINNER: Surfshark
Surfshark wins 5 out of 8 categories.
Best for: Families with multiple devices, streaming fans, and privacy-focused users who want an audited VPN.
Surfshark and AdGuard VPN serve different audiences. Surfshark is a full-featured VPN with unlimited connections, fast speeds, and proven privacy through independent audits. AdGuard VPN is a lighter option that works best for users who want simple browsing protection with strong ad blocking.
AdGuard VPN wins on its free plan and DNS-level ad blocking. If you already use AdGuard products, the VPN fits naturally into that setup. But for most users who need a VPN for online privacy, streaming, or protecting multiple devices, Surfshark offers more features at a lower long-term price.
More of Surfshark Compared
Here’s how Surfshark stacks up against other VPN providers:
Surfshark vs NordVPN
Surfshark wins on: Lower price ($1.99 vs $3.09/mo), unlimited device connections, and a more budget-friendly entry point for families
NordVPN wins on: Larger server network (5,000+ servers), faster raw speeds on many connections, and double the server count in key regions
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
Surfshark wins on: Significantly cheaper pricing, unlimited device connections (ExpressVPN caps at 8-14), and CleanWeb ad blocker included
ExpressVPN wins on: Consistent speeds across distant servers, broader router support, and a longer track record with streaming platforms
Surfshark vs Proton VPN
Surfshark wins on: More server locations (100 countries vs 68), unlimited devices, and lower 2-year pricing
Proton VPN wins on: A genuinely useful free plan with no data caps, open-source apps, and Swiss privacy jurisdiction
Surfshark vs CyberGhost
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited simultaneous connections, more compact and intuitive app design, and WireGuard as the default protocol
CyberGhost wins on: Dedicated streaming and torrent servers, larger total server count, and 45-day money-back guarantee on long plans
More of AdGuard VPN Compared
Here’s how AdGuard VPN stacks up against other VPN providers:
AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN
AdGuard VPN wins on: Free plan with 3 GB data, lower monthly price ($11.99 vs $12.99), and built-in DNS-level ad blocking
NordVPN wins on: 5,000+ servers, independently audited privacy, 24/7 live support, and much faster connection speeds
AdGuard VPN vs Proton VPN
AdGuard VPN wins on: DNS-level ad blocking, integration with AdGuard ad blocker, and proprietary HTTPS-masking protocol
Proton VPN wins on: Free plan with no data cap, open-source audited apps, Secure Core servers, and Swiss jurisdiction
AdGuard VPN vs Private Internet Access
AdGuard VPN wins on: Free plan for light users, simpler app interface, and DNS-level ad blocking out of the box
Private Internet Access wins on: Larger server network, open-source client, unlimited device connections, and proven no-logs record in court
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark VPN trustworthy?
Yes. Surfshark has been audited by Deloitte and Cure53, both confirming its no-logs policy. The VPN uses AES-256 encryption and the WireGuard protocol to protect your internet connection.
Is AdGuard VPN safe to use?
AdGuard VPN uses AES-256 encryption and has a strict no-logs policy. However, it has not undergone any third-party security audits. The company is based in Cyprus and complies with GDPR.
Can I use Surfshark VPN for free?
Surfshark does not have a permanent free plan. It offers a 7-day free trial on iOS and Android devices. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Does AdGuard VPN have a free plan?
Yes. The free version gives you 3 GB of data per month with access to a few server locations. Speeds are capped at 20 Mbps on the free plan.
Which is better for streaming, Surfshark or AdGuard VPN?
Surfshark is the better pick for streaming. It unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more. AdGuard VPN can handle Netflix and Disney+ but struggles with other platforms like Amazon Prime.
How much does a Surfshark subscription cost?
Surfshark pricing starts at $1.99/month on the 2-year plan. The 1-year plan costs $3.19/month. A single month costs $15.45. Surfshark also accepts Google Pay and credit cards.
Does AdGuard VPN block ads?
Yes. AdGuard VPN can block ads through its DNS servers. When you use AdGuard VPN with the AdGuard ad blocker, you get system-wide blocking ads on mobile devices and desktop apps. The free version includes this feature too.
Is Surfshark a good VPN for online security?
Yes. Surfshark encrypts your traffic with AES-256 and offers standard VPN features like a kill switch, split tunneling feature, and IP rotator. It also provides a dedicated IP address option and a virtual phone number add-on for extra online privacy. Surfshark’s security measures include a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte.
Can I buy AdGuard VPN risk free?
Yes. AdGuard offers a 30-day money back guarantee on yearly and 2-year plans. You can also test the free version first to see if AdGuard VPN’s apps work for your needs. AdGuard VPN’s performance on a US server is decent for everyday browsing.













