Surfshark VPN Review: Features and Comparison🤔[Is Surfshark The Best VPN?]

Looking for a full review on Surfshark VPN? Let’s get started! In today’s Cyber Age of internet security, Surfshark is a VPN service that’s been gaining traction among tech enthusiasts.

Known for offering unlimited simultaneous connections and a groundbreaking RAM-only server infrastructure, Surfshark has positioned itself as a formidable contender in the VPN space.

With a suite of apps for a wide range of platforms, including VPN for Windows and VPN for Android, it caters to a diverse user base.

Founded in 2018 and headquartered in the Netherlands, Surfshark not only promises enhanced digital security but also a seamless user experience across various operating systems.

This Surfshark VPN review aims to dissect the features, pricing, performance, and real-world efficacy of this service. We will look at Surfshark’s unique selling points, analyze its subscription plans for value, and examine its performance across different devices.

Furthermore, aspects like security, privacy, streaming effectiveness, and customer support will be covered to provide a comprehensive overview. Whether you’re questioning “Is Surfshark safe?”, looking for the latest Surfshark deals, or curious about the Surfshark VPN price, this review aims to cover all bases and see if it truly is worth your investment.

Unique Features of Surfshark VPN

In the realm of virtual private networks (VPNs), Surfshark distinguishes itself with a suite of unique features aimed at enhancing user privacy, security, and convenience. Here’s a deep dive into what sets Surfshark apart in the crowded VPN market:

Privacy and Security Enhancements:
Obfuscated Servers and RAM-Only Infrastructure: Surfshark employs obfuscated servers that mask VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it difficult for anyone to detect the use of a VPN. Coupled with a RAM-only server infrastructure, this ensures that all information is wiped clean upon server reboot, offering an additional layer of privacy.
CleanWeb: The CleanWeb feature is a robust tool that blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts across Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows platforms. This not only enhances browsing safety but also improves page load times and overall device performance.
Camouflage Mode and NoBorders: With Camouflage Mode, Surfshark makes your internet traffic appear like any other traffic, even to your internet service provider. The NoBorders mode allows users to access the internet freely in restrictive regions, overcoming geoblocks and censorship.
Innovative Technologies for Enhanced Connectivity:
Nexus Technology: Incorporating features like IP Rotator and Dynamic Multihop, Nexus technology offers users an additional layer of privacy by frequently changing IP addresses and routing traffic through multiple servers, respectively.
Protocols and Encryption: Surfshark supports WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, providing a balance between speed and security. The industry-leading AES-256-GCM encryption ensures that user data remains secure from prying eyes.
Additional Features for a Comprehensive Security Solution:
Surfshark One: This package includes Surfshark Antivirus, Surfshark Search, Surfshark Alert, and Alternative ID, offering a holistic approach to digital security. From scanning downloaded files and securing webcams to notifying users of data breaches and removing personal information from data brokers, Surfshark One covers a wide array of security needs.
Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: Unlike many competitors, Surfshark allows users to connect an unlimited number of devices on a single account, making it an ideal solution for families or individuals with multiple devices.
Bypasser and SmartDNS: The Bypasser (Split-tunneling) feature allows certain apps and websites to bypass the VPN, which is useful for accessing local content. Meanwhile, SmartDNS enhances streaming on devices that may not support VPN apps directly, such as SmartTVs.

Surfshark’s commitment to privacy, security, and user convenience is evident in its broad range of features. From advanced privacy technologies like Nexus and obfuscated servers to user-centric solutions like unlimited device connections and Surfshark One, Surfshark is tailored to meet the diverse needs of today’s internet users. Whether it’s for bypassing censorship with NoBorders mode or securing devices against threats with Surfshark Antivirus, Surfshark offers a compelling package for anyone looking to enhance their online security and privacy.

Pricing and Subscription Plans

Diving into the heart of Surfshark’s offerings, the VPN service presents a flexible array of pricing and subscription plans tailored to fit various user needs and budgets. With a structure designed to cater to short-term users as well as those seeking long-term commitments, Surfshark showcases its commitment to accessibility and value. Here’s a breakdown of their current subscription models:

Monthly Subscription: Priced at $10.99, this plan is ideal for those looking to test the waters without diving in. It’s a tad pricier compared to the long-term commitments, reflecting the flexibility it offers.
Annual Subscription: A step up, the 12-month plan costs $3.99 per month, billed annually. This middle ground offers a balance between commitment and cost, suitable for the moderately committed.
Two-Year Subscription: The best bang for your buck, this option is priced at $2.49 per month, translating to significant savings over the monthly plan. For those ready to commit, this plan not only offers the best value but also includes an additional 2 months free, further sweetening the deal.

Surfshark’s pricing strategy, while competitive, has raised eyebrows due to its renewal policies. Initially, the two-year subscription renews annually at $60 after the first term, a detail that could be clearer during the sign-up process. Despite this, the service remains a cost-effective choice, especially when pitted against rivals like ExpressVPN. For comparison:

ExpressVPN: Offers a one-year plan at $6.67 per month, which is higher than Surfshark’s two-year offer at $2.29 per month. This stark difference showcases Surfshark’s commitment to affordability.

Surfshark’s approach to pricing is complemented by its 30-day money-back guarantee, offering peace of mind to those on the fence. Payment flexibility is another plus, with Surfshark accepting a wide range of methods including credit cards, PayPal, and even cryptocurrency for the privacy-conscious. However, it’s worth noting that while Surfshark’s initial pricing is competitive, users have expressed concerns regarding customer service and clarity around yearly subscriptions. As with any service, potential subscribers should weigh these factors alongside cost and features to make an informed decision.

User Experience Across Different Platforms

Navigating through the digital landscape with a VPN has become a necessity for many, and Surfshark’s commitment to providing a seamless user experience across various platforms is noteworthy. Here’s how Surfshark stands in terms of usability and compatibility:

Wide Platform Support:
Surfshark: Offers dedicated client applications for MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. It extends its support to a broad spectrum of devices including TVs, consoles, routers, and even Linux systems. This inclusivity ensures that regardless of the device you own, Surfshark has got you covered.
ExpressVPN: Similarly, it supports a wide range of platforms such as Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, along with Fire TV, Apple TV, routers, and browser extensions. This makes both VPNs highly versatile in terms of device compatibility.
User-Friendly Interface:
Surfshark boasts a user-friendly interface across all its applications, making it easy for even the most non-technical users to navigate. Whether you’re on a smartphone, tablet, or desktop, setting up and connecting to a server is a breeze, with connections typically initiated between three to six seconds for each server location. However, it’s crucial to note that while Surfshark’s app is generally easy to install and use, there have been reports of compatibility issues with certain devices or services.
Performance and Connectivity:
Surfshark excels in hiding IP addresses effectively, ensuring your online activities remain anonymous. However, a few instances have been noted where connecting to specific countries like Brazil posed challenges. Additionally, some users have encountered connectivity issues, particularly when accessing sites like Amazon. These instances, although few, highlight the importance of continuous improvements and updates to maintain optimal performance across all platforms.

Surfshark VPN’s commitment to providing a versatile and user-friendly experience is evident in its wide platform support and intuitive interface. While it stands on par with competitors like ExpressVPN in terms of compatibility, it’s the minor nuances in user experience and connectivity that potential users should consider. Whether you’re streaming, browsing, or gaming, Surfshark’s extensive device support and easy-to-navigate apps make it a strong contender in the VPN market, ensuring that your digital footprint is secured across any device you choose to use.

Speed and Performance Analysis

Surfshark VPN has leaped forward in the race of speed and performance, making a significant mark as one of the fastest VPNs available today. The service has witnessed a remarkable improvement, showcasing an average speed loss of just 17%, a figure that speaks volumes about its efficiency and reliability. This enhancement is not just limited to speed but also extends to privacy, positioning Surfshark as a top contender for those prioritizing both speed and security.

Speed Test Results Across Various Countries:

United States: With VPN — 110 Mbps, Without VPN — 148 Mbps
United Kingdom: With VPN — 111 Mbps, Without VPN — 152 Mbps
Canada: With VPN — 112 Mbps, Without VPN — 150 Mbps
Australia: With VPN — 101 Mbps, Without VPN — 149 Mbps
Netherlands: With VPN — 115 Mbps, Without VPN — 151 Mbps
Germany: With VPN — 114 Mbps, Without VPN — 150 Mbps
France: With VPN — 113 Mbps, Without VPN — 151 Mbps

These results demonstrate Surfshark’s ability to provide great server performance across all locations, with many servers clocking in speeds above 150 Mbps. This consistent performance across a variety of regions ensures users can enjoy high-speed internet access with minimal disruptions, regardless of their physical location.

Factors Influencing VPN Speed:

Internet Speed & Distance to Server: The closer the server, the faster the speed. Surfshark’s global network of 3,200-plus servers in 100 countries allows users to find a nearby server for optimal performance.
VPN Server Hardware & Encryption: Surfshark utilizes state-of-the-art server hardware and robust encryption protocols to maintain speed without compromising security.
VPN Protocols: With support for WireGuard and OpenVPN, users have the flexibility to choose the protocol that best balances speed and security for their needs.
Time of Day: Surfshark manages its network efficiently to handle peak times without significant speed drops.

While Surfshark shines in speed and performance, it’s important to note that users may experience slower buffering speeds for services like Max and Peacock, potentially affecting the streaming experience. However, the overall strides made by Surfshark in enhancing its speed are commendable, ensuring users can enjoy a fast, secure, and reliable VPN service.

Security and Privacy Features

Surfshark has fortified its position in the VPN market with an impressive array of security and privacy features, ensuring users can surf the web with peace of mind. Here’s a closer look at how Surfshark stands out:

Robust Encryption and Protocols:
Encryption: Utilizes AES-256-GCM encryption, known for its unbreakable security, ensuring that user data remains secure from prying eyes.
Protocols: Offers a choice between OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 protocols, allowing users to balance speed and security according to their needs.
ChaCha20 Encryption: Specifically with the WireGuard protocol, Surfshark employs ChaCha20 encryption, adding an extra layer of security.
Privacy Enhancements:
No-Logs Policy: A strict no-logs policy is in place, meaning Surfshark doesn’t monitor, track, or store user activities. This policy has been validated by an external no-logs audit conducted by Deloitte.
Server Infrastructure: Operates on a RAM-only server infrastructure, ensuring that all data is wiped clean upon server reboot, which significantly enhances user privacy.
CleanWeb Feature: Blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts, contributing to a safer and cleaner browsing experience.
Advanced Security Features:
Kill Switch: Acts as a safety net, automatically cutting off internet access if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
Private DNS & Leak Protection: Offers private DNS on each server and leak protection to prevent IPv4 stack leaks, ensuring that your online activities are not exposed.
Security Audits: Surfshark’s commitment to security is underscored by passing four security audits, including a no-logs audit and a mobile app security assessment by Cure53, a German cybersecurity firm.
While Surfshark’s security and privacy features are commendable, users should note its base in the Netherlands, which, despite having privacy-friendly data retention laws, falls under Nine Eyes jurisdiction. This could be a concern for those seeking the utmost in privacy. However, Surfshark’s transparent efforts, such as conducting a VPN test for DNS leaks, IP address leaks, and WebRTC leaks, alongside exploring the publication of transparency reports, reflect its commitment to user trust and security.

Effectiveness for Streaming Services

Surfshark VPN emerges as a formidable ally for streaming aficionados, cutting through geoblocks like a hot knife through butter to unlock a world of content. Whether you’re in the mood for a Netflix binge-watch session across different countries’ libraries, settling down for a Disney Plus marathon, catching up on Amazon Prime Video’s latest offerings, or laughing along with Hulu’s comedies, Surfshark has got your back. The service’s prowess doesn’t stop there; it also caters to niche interests with secure access to IPTV streaming, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite TV shows without ISP throttling or privacy concerns.

Streaming Service Compatibility:
Netflix: Access to various international libraries.
Disney Plus & Hulu: Seamless streaming for family entertainment and binge-worthy series.
Amazon Prime Video: Unlock exclusive content not available in your region.
YouTube & IPTV: Watch videos and live TV from anywhere, bypassing censorship and throttling.
HBO Max & BBC iPlayer: Secure and buffer-free access to premium content and British television.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing in the streaming seas. While Surfshark champions versatility across most major platforms, it hits a snag with Kayo Sports. Users may experience longer load times and potential playback issues, a hiccup worth noting for sports enthusiasts. But fear not, for Surfshark’s commitment to top download speeds and zero buffering on platforms like HBO Max, coupled with the ability to connect unlimited devices, ensures a premium viewing experience for the rest of your streaming needs.
Surfshark’s dedication to enhancing the streaming experience is further exemplified by its comprehensive guides. These handy manuals provide step-by-step instructions on securely accessing a plethora of services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, BBC, Hotstar, and DAZN. Whether you’re a streaming novice or a seasoned veteran, these guides demystify the process, ensuring you can dive into your desired content without a hitch. With Surfshark, geographical boundaries fade away, leaving a vast ocean of content at your fingertips, ready to be explored.

Customer Support and Resources

Surfshark VPN’s commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in its comprehensive support ecosystem, designed to cater to users’ needs with efficiency and ease. From troubleshooting guides to live chat support, Surfshark ensures that help is always just a click away. Here’s a closer look at the resources and support offered:

Extensive Support Resources:
Help Center: A treasure trove of VPN guides, covering everything from Surfshark One to VPN for Teams, and addressing common issues related to login and subscription.
Blog and Research: For those looking to dive deeper, Surfshark provides insightful articles and research findings on privacy, security, and the latest in internet trends.
24/7 Live Chat Support: Whether it’s day or night, Surfshark’s dedicated team is ready to assist you with any queries or issues, ensuring a smooth and secure online experience.

Surfshark’s proactive approach to customer feedback is noteworthy. The company maintains a claimed profile on Trustpilot and actively encourages users to share their experiences, whether positive or negative. This open invitation for feedback underscores Surfshark’s commitment to transparency and continuous improvement:

Engagement with Customer Feedback:
Trustpilot Engagement: Surfshark not only invites reviews but also engages with them, replying to 97% of negative feedback within two days — a testament to their dedication to customer satisfaction.
Ratings and Reviews: With a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars based on thousands of global ratings, Surfshark’s customer satisfaction levels are evident. However, it’s important to note that experiences vary, as highlighted by a mix of positive and negative reviews.

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, Surfshark acknowledges the importance of addressing every customer’s concerns. A few users have reported difficulties in getting timely responses from tech support, which Surfshark takes seriously in its mission to continuously enhance service quality. This dedication to resolving user issues, combined with a vast array of support resources, cements Surfshark’s reputation as a user-centric VPN provider, always striving to exceed customer expectations.

Comparison with Competitors

When it comes to choosing the right VPN service, the devil is in the details. Surfshark VPN and NordVPN are two giants in the realm of online privacy, but how do they stack up against each other? Let’s dive deep into the ocean of features, speed, and streaming capabilities to see which VPN might be the best fit for your digital life.

Pricing and Value:

Surfshark VPN: Known for offering a premium experience without breaking the bank, Surfshark has received accolades from both users and experts for its budget-friendly price. It’s like getting a luxury car for the price of a compact — both surprising and delightful.
NordVPN: While not as wallet-friendly as Surfshark, NordVPN offers a robust service that many find worth the extra pennies, especially for those prioritizing speed and an extensive server network.
Streaming Capabilities:
Surfshark VPN: A commendable contender in the streaming arena, Surfshark can unlock 10 Netflix libraries, alongside other popular services like Disney Plus, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. It’s like having a key to multiple backdoors in the streaming world.
NordVPN: Takes the crown for streaming enthusiasts with the ability to access 15 Netflix libraries, providing a broader range of content. It’s akin to having an all-access pass to nearly every show or movie you can think of.

Speed and Performance:

While both VPNs offer commendable speed and reliability, NordVPN edges out Surfshark in this category, particularly for streaming. NordVPN’s wider server network and optimized server technology mean that buffering is more of an urban legend than a regular occurrence. Imagine streaming your favorite show in ultra-HD without the dreaded loading icon — that’s NordVPN for you.

In summary, choosing between Surfshark and NordVPN might come down to what you value most: Surfshark offers a premium experience at a more accessible price point, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who still want top-notch security and privacy features. On the other hand, NordVPN might be the go-to for those who prioritize speed and an extensive server network, especially for streaming content from around the globe. It’s like choosing between a sports car and a luxury sedan — both are excellent choices, but your preference depends on what you value most in your ride through the digital highway.

Conclusion

Through this comprehensive review, we’ve explored the multifaceted features, performance, and pricing of Surfshark VPN, underscoring its value for a wide spectrum of users, from security-conscious individuals to streaming enthusiasts. Surfshark not only stands out for its advanced security measures and privacy enhancements but also for its remarkable speed and robust server performance across the globe. From unlocking the vast world of streaming content to ensuring seamless and secure browsing, Surfshark has consistently demonstrated why it is considered a top contender in the VPN market.

Reflecting on the myriad benefits that Surfshark offers, it’s clear that this VPN service is dedicated to providing a premium, user-oriented internet security solution. Whether you’re looking to enhance your online privacy, break through geoblocks, or simply secure your digital footprint, Surfshark proves to be a worthy investment. Click here to get access to Surfshark VPN and embark on a safe and unrestricted digital journey. With its commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, Surfshark is poised to remain a preferred choice for those seeking reliability, speed, and peace of mind in their online endeavors.

FAQs

Is Surfshark a good choice for a VPN?

Surfshark is highly regarded for its commitment to privacy, maintaining only the minimal amount of data necessary for its operations. This approach places it among the top no-log VPN services available, making it a highly recommended choice for those prioritizing their privacy online.

How does Surfshark compare to other VPNs like NordVPN?

While NordVPN boasts a larger server network with over 5,500 servers across more than 60 countries, Surfshark is not far behind, offering access to over 3,200 servers in over 65 countries. The difference in server count means NordVPN might provide better connection speeds and reduced latency for some users due to having servers closer to their location.

Can Surfshark be trusted?

Surfshark has proven its commitment to user privacy and security through rigorous external audits, including a successful no-logs policy compliance check by Deloitte. In addition, it has earned significant recognition, including the Editors’ Choice for Best Value VPN by CNET in 2022 and the VPN Solution of the Year at the CyberSecurity Breakthrough Awards, affirming its legitimacy and value.

What benefits does Surfshark offer?

Surfshark sets itself apart by including special features in its standard plan without additional costs. One notable feature is Clean Web, which blocks intrusive ads and safeguards against malware, phishing attempts, and unwanted cookie pop-ups, enhancing both the security and the browsing experience of its users.

Digital InfoHub