📊 Our Test Results:
- 🎯 Server Network: Surfshark 4,500+ servers in 100 countries vs Malwarebytes 500+ in 42 — Surfshark wins
- ⚡ Speed Test: Surfshark lost only 3% download speed vs Malwarebytes lost 33% on Windows — Surfshark wins
- 🔒 Privacy Audit: Surfshark audited by Deloitte and Cure53 vs Malwarebytes has zero audits — Surfshark wins
- 📺 Streaming Access: Surfshark unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ vs Malwarebytes fails most platforms — Surfshark wins
- 📱 Device Support: Surfshark covers unlimited devices vs Malwarebytes limits to 1-5 — Surfshark wins
Are you struggling to pick the right VPN for your devices?
You need a VPN that keeps you safe online without slowing you down.
Surfshark and Malwarebytes Privacy VPN are two popular options in 2026.
But they serve very different types of users.
Surfshark is a full-featured VPN built for speed, streaming, and privacy.
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is a basic add-on made for existing antivirus users.
In this head-to-head matchup, we break down every feature so you can choose the right tool.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, we tested SurfsharkVPN vs Malwarebytes VPN side by side.
We spent four weeks using each VPN on Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.
We ran speed tests, tried streaming services, and checked for data leaks.
We also compared their privacy policies, server networks, and pricing plans.
Here is what we found after real-world testing.
What is Surfshark?
Surfshark is a premium VPN service based in the Netherlands.
It encrypts your internet connection using AES-256 encryption and the WireGuard protocol.
Surfshark stands out because it allows unlimited device connections on a single account.
That means your whole family can stay protected without paying extra.
It also comes with extras like CleanWeb (ad blocker), Alternative ID, and Camouflage Mode.
Surfshark
Surfshark protects unlimited devices with fast WireGuard speeds and 4,500+ servers in 100 countries. It unblocks Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ with ease. Plans start at just $1.99/month.
Surfshark Pricing
Here is what Surfshark costs in 2026.
Long-term plans give you the biggest savings.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 24 Months +3 Extra | $1.99/month | Best value for long-term users |
| 12 Months +3 Extra | $3.19/month | Balanced commitment and savings |
| 1 Month | $15.45/month | Short-term or trial use |
Free trial: Yes. 7-day free trial on Android and iOS through the app stores.
Money-back guarantee: 30 days. You get a full refund if you cancel within the first month.
📌 Note: All Surfshark plans include the same VPN features. The only difference is the billing period. Longer plans cost less per month.
⚠️ Warning: Prices go up when your first term ends. The renewal rate is higher than the intro price. Turn off auto-renew if you want to avoid surprise charges.
Key Benefits of Surfshark
Here is why Surfshark stands out from the competition:
- Unlimited Devices: Connect every device in your home on one account. No extra fees for phones, tablets, or laptops.
- 4,500+ Servers: Surfshark runs servers in 100 countries. You can always find a fast server near you.
- CleanWeb Ad Blocker: This feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware while you browse. It works on all devices.
- Camouflage Mode: Hides the fact you are using a VPN. Great for countries that block VPN connections.
- Alternative ID: Creates a fake name and email for online sign-ups. This protects your real identity from spam.
- Audited No-Logs Policy: Deloitte and Cure53 confirmed that Surfshark does not store your browsing data.
- Fast WireGuard Speeds: Speed tests show only a 3% drop on nearby servers. Streaming stays buffer-free.
Surfshark Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Unlimited device connections on every plan
- 4,500+ servers across 100 countries for fast global access
- Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
- Independently audited no-logs policy by Deloitte
- Budget-friendly at $1.99/month on the 2-year plan
❌ Cons
- Monthly plan is expensive at $15.45
- Based in the Netherlands (Nine Eyes alliance member)
- Temporarily logs IP addresses for up to 15 minutes
- Renewal prices jump after the first billing term
What is Malwarebytes Privacy VPN?
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is a virtual private network made by the company behind the popular anti-malware software.
It uses AES-256 encryption and the WireGuard protocol to secure your internet traffic.
Behind the scenes, it runs on Mullvad’s server network.
The VPN is best suited for people who already use Malwarebytes antivirus and want basic VPN protection.
It covers Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android but does not support Linux or routers.
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN offers basic VPN protection with AES-256 encryption and WireGuard speeds. It works well as a bundle with Malwarebytes antivirus. Standalone plans start at $3.33/month billed yearly.
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN Pricing
Here is what Malwarebytes Privacy VPN costs in 2026.
All plans are billed yearly with no monthly option.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $44.99/yr | Basic VPN on one device |
| Plus | $59.99/yr | VPN + antivirus bundle |
| Total | $159.99/yr | Full security suite with identity protection |
Free trial: Yes. 7-day free trial available for the Privacy VPN.
Money-back guarantee: 60 days. That is double the industry standard.
📌 Note: The Standard plan covers only 1 device by default. You can add more devices, but each extra device raises the price. The Plus plan bundles antivirus with VPN.
⚠️ Warning: Malwarebytes charges VAT in some countries. That can add up to 20% to the total price. Check the final amount at checkout.
Key Benefits of Malwarebytes Privacy VPN
Here is why some users choose Malwarebytes Privacy VPN:
- Antivirus Bundle: Pair the VPN with Malwarebytes Premium antivirus for all-in-one security at one price.
- Simple Interface: The app has a clean, one-click design. Just tap connect and you are protected.
- WireGuard Protocol: Malwarebytes uses WireGuard for fast, efficient connections on all supported devices.
- No IP Logging: The VPN claims it does not store DNS requests, IP addresses, or bandwidth data.
- MultiHop Feature: Route your traffic through two servers for an extra layer of privacy.
- 60-Day Refund Window: You get two full months to test the VPN risk-free before deciding.
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Bundles with Malwarebytes antivirus for full device protection
- Clean, simple app that anyone can use
- Generous 60-day money-back guarantee
- No DNS or WebRTC leaks detected in testing
❌ Cons
- Small server network with only 500+ servers in 42 countries
- No third-party audit to verify its no-logs claims
- Based in the US (Five Eyes alliance member)
- Struggles to unblock most streaming platforms
- Default plan covers only 1 device
Feature Comparison
Ready to see how Surfshark and Malwarebytes Privacy VPN compare feature by feature?
We tested 10 key areas to find out which VPN delivers more value.
| Feature | Surfshark | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $1.99/month | $44.99/yr (~$3.75/mo) |
| Servers | 4,500+ in 100 countries | 500+ in 42 countries |
| Device Limit | Unlimited | 1-5 (paid per device) |
| Streaming Support | ✅ Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ | ❌ Very limited |
| Kill Switch | ✅ All platforms | ✅ Desktop only |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ Desktop only |
| No-Logs Audit | ✅ Deloitte & Cure53 | ❌ No audit |
| Ad Blocker | ✅ CleanWeb | ❌ |
| Obfuscation | ✅ Camouflage Mode | ❌ |
| Best For | Streaming, privacy, families | Existing Malwarebytes users |
1. Server Network
Surfshark: Surfshark runs 4,500+ servers across 100 countries. All servers support 10 Gbps speeds. That means less crowding and faster connections no matter where you are.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes has about 500 servers in 42 countries. It uses Mullvad’s server network behind the scenes. The smaller network means fewer options and more potential slowdowns.
2. Speed and Performance
Surfshark: In speed tests, Surfshark only dropped download speeds by about 3% on nearby servers. Even on distant servers, it kept about 86% of baseline speed. Streaming stayed smooth in HD and 4K.
Malwarebytes VPN: On Windows, download speeds dropped by about 33%. On Mac, the speed loss was only about 4%. Distant servers showed up to 62% speed drops in some tests.
💡 Test Result: Surfshark was 10 times more consistent in speed across all platforms. Malwarebytes had big speed swings between Mac and Windows.
3. Streaming and Unblocking
Surfshark: Surfshark unblocks Netflix (US, UK, Japan), Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime. It has apps for Fire TV Stick and Apple TV for easy streaming.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes does not officially support streaming. Its own troubleshooting page tells you to turn off the VPN if video does not work. Some servers unblock Netflix, but results are spotty.
⚠️ Warning: If streaming is your main reason for getting a VPN, Malwarebytes is not the right choice. It fails to connect to Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer in most tests.
4. Privacy and Logging Policy
Surfshark: Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte and Cure53. It does not store browsing history, session data, or network traffic. It briefly logs IP addresses for up to 15 minutes after disconnect.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes claims a no-logs policy but has not done any third-party audit. It may store a public key for VPN connections. The company is based in the US, which is part of the Five Eyes alliance.
5. Device Support and Connections
Surfshark: Surfshark allows unlimited devices on one account. It works on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Apple TV, and routers. Browser extensions are available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Malwarebytes VPN: The default plan covers only 1 device. You can pay more to cover up to 5 devices. It works on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. No support for Linux, routers, or smart TVs.
6. Security Features
Surfshark: Surfshark packs AES-256 encryption, a kill switch on all platforms, split tunneling, MultiHop (double VPN), Camouflage Mode, and an IP rotator. It offers WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes offers AES-256 encryption, a kill switch (desktop only), split tunneling (desktop only), and MultiHop. It only supports the WireGuard protocol. No obfuscation or stealth mode.
7. Ease of Use
Surfshark: The Surfshark app is polished and easy to navigate. You can switch servers with one tap. The interface shows your connection status, selected server, and IP address clearly.
Malwarebytes VPN: The Malwarebytes app is even simpler. It has a big connect button and a server list. No clutter at all. But advanced users may find it too basic with no server ping info or speed stats.
8. Torrenting Support
Surfshark: Surfshark supports P2P traffic on all servers. The split tunneling feature lets you route only torrent traffic through the VPN. Fast speeds keep downloads quick.
Malwarebytes VPN: Torrenting works on all Malwarebytes servers too. But there is no port forwarding or SOCKS5 proxy. Download speeds can be slow on distant servers.
9. Customer Support
Surfshark: Surfshark offers 24/7 live chat and email support. Response times are fast. The help center has setup guides for every platform and a searchable knowledge base.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes offers support through tickets and email. There is no live chat for VPN issues. Response times are decent, but you may wait a day for complex problems.
10. Pricing and Value
| Plan | Surfshark | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest Plan | $1.99/month (2-year) | $44.99/yr (~$3.75/mo) |
| Mid-Tier | $3.19/month (1-year) | $59.99/yr (~$5.00/mo) |
| Premium/Monthly | $15.45/month | $159.99/yr (~$13.33/mo) |
| Free Trial | 7 days (mobile) | 7 days |
| Money-Back | 30 days | 60 days |
Surfshark: At $1.99/month on the 2-year plan, Surfshark is one of the cheapest premium VPNs. You get unlimited devices, 4,500+ servers, and proven privacy for less than a cup of coffee.
Malwarebytes VPN: The standalone VPN costs $44.99/year for one device. That works out to $3.75/month. But you only get one device. Adding more raises the price fast.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest per device | Surfshark | Unlimited devices at $1.99/mo |
| Streaming access | Surfshark | Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ |
| Antivirus + VPN bundle | Malwarebytes | All-in-one security package |
| Proven privacy | Surfshark | Audited by Deloitte and Cure53 |
| Simple, basic VPN | Malwarebytes | One-click design, no clutter |
| Large server network | Surfshark | 4,500+ servers in 100 countries |
| Longest refund window | Malwarebytes | 60-day money-back guarantee |
💰 Your Budget
Surfshark costs $1.99/month on the 2-year plan and covers unlimited devices. Malwarebytes charges $44.99/year for just one device. For families or multi-device users, Surfshark gives far more value.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Surfshark works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Apple TV, and routers. Malwarebytes only covers Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. If you use Linux or smart TVs, Surfshark is your only option.
📺 Your Streaming Needs
Surfshark unblocks nearly every major streaming service worldwide. Malwarebytes struggles with most platforms and even suggests turning the VPN off for streaming.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both VPNs are easy to use. Malwarebytes is slightly simpler with fewer settings. Surfshark has more features but still keeps a clean interface.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Both offer a 7-day free trial. Surfshark gives a 30-day money-back guarantee. Malwarebytes doubles that with 60 days. If you need extra time to decide, Malwarebytes wins here.
🛟 Support Options
Surfshark offers 24/7 live chat for instant help. Malwarebytes only has email and ticket support. For quick answers, Surfshark is the better pick.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPNs? Here is what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Surfshark to Malwarebytes VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Antivirus bundled with VPN in one package
- 60-day money-back guarantee instead of 30
- Simpler app with fewer settings to manage
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Unlimited device connections (Malwarebytes limits to 1-5)
- 4,500+ servers in 100 countries reduced to 500+ in 42
- Streaming access to Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Surfshark subscription through your account settings
- Sign up for Malwarebytes Privacy VPN or the Plus bundle
- Download the Malwarebytes app on your devices and log in
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes VPN to Surfshark?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited devices on one account instead of paying per device
- Access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and 100+ streaming services
- Independently audited no-logs policy for proven privacy
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Built-in antivirus bundle (you will need separate antivirus)
- 60-day refund window drops to 30 days
- Ultra-simple one-button interface
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel Malwarebytes through your account or request a refund within 60 days
- Go to Surfshark and pick a plan (the 2-year deal is the best value)
- Download Surfshark on all your devices and connect
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing & Value | Surfshark |
| 🌐 Server Network | Surfshark |
| ⚡ Speed | Surfshark |
| 📺 Streaming | Surfshark |
| 🔒 Privacy & Audits | Surfshark |
| 📱 Device Support | Surfshark |
| 🛡️ Security Features | Surfshark |
| 👶 Ease of Use | Malwarebytes |
| 🔌 Antivirus Bundle | Malwarebytes |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Surfshark |
🏆 WINNER: Surfshark
Surfshark wins 8 out of 10 categories.
Best for: Streaming, family use, online privacy, and budget-minded users who want premium features.
Surfshark and Malwarebytes Privacy VPN serve very different audiences.
Surfshark is a full-featured VPN built for speed, streaming, and serious privacy.
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is a basic add-on for people who already use Malwarebytes antivirus.
Malwarebytes is great if you want a simple, all-in-one security bundle.
But if you want the best VPN for your money, Surfshark is the clear winner.
It gives you unlimited devices, 4,500+ servers, and proven privacy for just $1.99/month.
Now go protect all your devices and browse without limits!
More of Surfshark Compared
Here’s how Surfshark stacks up against other competitors:
Surfshark vs NordVPN
Surfshark wins on: Price, unlimited devices
NordVPN wins on: Server count, slightly faster speeds
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
Surfshark wins on: Price, unlimited devices, ad blocker
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed consistency, works in China
Surfshark vs PureVPN
Surfshark wins on: Speed, privacy audits, features
PureVPN wins on: Dedicated IP options, server count
Surfshark vs ProtonVPN
Surfshark wins on: Price, unlimited devices, streaming
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss privacy laws
Surfshark vs PrivadoVPN
Surfshark wins on: Server network, speed, features
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan with 10 GB/month
Surfshark vs AdGuard VPN
Surfshark wins on: Server count, streaming, MultiHop
AdGuard VPN wins on: Built-in ad blocking, low latency
Surfshark vs Virtual Shield
Surfshark wins on: Price, global server network, features
Virtual Shield wins on: US-based support, simple setup
Surfshark vs StrongVPN
Surfshark wins on: Price, unlimited devices, streaming
StrongVPN wins on: Works well in China
Surfshark vs FastestVPN
Surfshark wins on: Speed, server network, features
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan pricing
Surfshark vs Aura VPN
Surfshark wins on: Speed, features, server network
Aura VPN wins on: Identity theft protection bundle
Surfshark vs CyberGhost
Surfshark wins on: Price, unlimited devices, speed
CyberGhost wins on: Larger server count, dedicated streaming servers
Surfshark vs McAfee VPN
Surfshark wins on: Speed, privacy, server count
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle integration
Surfshark vs Private Internet Access
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, ease of use
PIA wins on: Open-source apps, massive server network
Surfshark vs Mysterium VPN
Surfshark wins on: Speed, reliability, server count
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
Surfshark vs SafeShell VPN
Surfshark wins on: Features, global network, streaming
SafeShell VPN wins on: Works in restricted regions
Surfshark vs OysterVPN
Surfshark wins on: Speed, server count, proven privacy
OysterVPN wins on: Affordable lifetime deal
More of Malwarebytes VPN Compared
Here’s how Malwarebytes Privacy VPN stacks up against other competitors:
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus bundle, simpler app
NordVPN wins on: Speed, servers, streaming, privacy audits
Malwarebytes VPN vs ExpressVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Price, antivirus bundle
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, privacy, global reach
Malwarebytes wins on: Simpler interface, antivirus bundle
PureVPN wins on: Server count, dedicated IP, streaming
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus bundle, 60-day refund
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss privacy, open source
Malwarebytes VPN vs PrivadoVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus bundle, brand trust
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, more VPN features
Malwarebytes VPN vs AdGuard VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus integration
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad blocking, better speeds, more features
Malwarebytes VPN vs Virtual Shield
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus bundle, brand recognition
Virtual Shield wins on: Streaming support, more servers
Malwarebytes VPN vs StrongVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Price, antivirus bundle
StrongVPN wins on: Works in China, more protocols
Malwarebytes VPN vs FastestVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Brand trust, antivirus bundle
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan, more devices
Malwarebytes VPN vs Aura VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Lower base price
Aura VPN wins on: Identity theft protection, more features
Malwarebytes VPN vs CyberGhost
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus bundle
CyberGhost wins on: Huge server network, streaming, speed
Malwarebytes VPN vs McAfee VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Better malware detection
McAfee VPN wins on: More devices, better streaming
Malwarebytes VPN vs Private Internet Access
Malwarebytes wins on: Simpler interface, antivirus bundle
PIA wins on: Open-source, huge server network, streaming
Malwarebytes VPN vs Mysterium VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Ease of use, brand trust
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
Malwarebytes VPN vs SafeShell VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Brand recognition, antivirus
SafeShell VPN wins on: Works in restricted countries
Malwarebytes VPN vs OysterVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Antivirus bundle, 60-day refund
OysterVPN wins on: More features, better streaming
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark VPN trustworthy?
Yes. Surfshark has been audited by Deloitte and Cure53. Both confirmed its no-logs policy. It uses AES-256 encryption and the WireGuard protocol to keep your data safe.
Is Malwarebytes VPN any good?
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is decent for basic browsing protection. It works best as an add-on to the Malwarebytes antivirus. But it falls short on streaming, speed, and features compared to dedicated VPN providers.
How much is Surfshark VPN per month?
Surfshark costs $1.99/month on the 2-year plan, $3.19/month on the 1-year plan, or $15.45 for a single month. The 2-year plan gives you the best value.
Does Malwarebytes VPN work on Netflix?
Sometimes. Malwarebytes can unblock Netflix on some servers, but it fails on most. The company does not officially support streaming. Surfshark is a much better choice for Netflix.
Can you use Surfshark VPN for free?
Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial on Android and iOS through the app stores. It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. There is no permanently free version.
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