In today’s digital world, protecting your online privacy and security is more important than ever. Many people turn to VPN services to safeguard their data, hide their online activity, and access content from different regions. Among the top VPN providers, Surfshark and ExpressVPN are two of the most popular choices. Both offer strong security features, fast speeds, and user-friendly apps. But which one is better? This article will compare Surfshark and ExpressVPN in detail to help you decide which VPN service suits your needs best.
What Is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, creates a secure and private connection between your device and the internet. It encrypts your data, hiding it from hackers, internet service providers, and government surveillance. Using a VPN also lets you access websites and streaming services that may be blocked or restricted in your country. Many users look for a reliable VPN for their devices, such as a VPN for iPhone, to ensure security on the go.
Overview of Surfshark
Surfshark is a relatively newer VPN provider but has quickly gained popularity due to its affordable pricing and unlimited device connections. It offers a strong focus on privacy, security, and easy-to-use apps. Surfshark is suitable for users who want to protect many devices at once, such as smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs.
Overview of ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is one of the oldest and most respected VPN providers. It is known for its high-speed servers, strong security protocols, and excellent customer support. ExpressVPN offers a large network of servers worldwide and is widely used for streaming, torrenting, and bypassing censorship.
Speed and Performance
Speed is critical when choosing a VPN, especially if you plan to stream videos or download large files. ExpressVPN is famous for its consistently fast speeds across many locations. It uses advanced technology to keep your connection stable without sacrificing security.
Surfshark also provides good speeds, especially on nearby servers. However, in some distant locations, it may be slightly slower than ExpressVPN. That said, Surfshark’s performance is more than enough for everyday use, including HD streaming and gaming.
Security Features
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer top-level security features to keep your data safe:
- Encryption: Both use AES-256 encryption, the industry standard for VPN security.
- Protocols: ExpressVPN uses Lightway and OpenVPN, while Surfshark supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
- Kill Switch: Both VPNs have a kill switch that stops internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
- No-logs Policy: Both providers have strict no-logs policies, meaning they do not store your browsing data.
Surfshark adds extra features like MultiHop, which routes your traffic through two VPN servers for extra privacy, and CleanWeb, which blocks ads and malware. ExpressVPN emphasizes its TrustedServer technology that runs all servers on volatile memory (RAM), which wipes data on every reboot.
Privacy and Jurisdiction
Where a VPN is based matters for privacy. ExpressVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, known for strong privacy laws and no mandatory data retention. Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which has more data-sharing agreements but Surfshark’s no-logs policy protects your information.
Server Network
ExpressVPN has a larger network with over 3,000 servers in 94 countries. This extensive network means better chances of finding fast, reliable servers near you.
Surfshark has around 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, giving it a slightly wider global coverage. Both offer specialty servers for streaming, P2P sharing, and obfuscated servers to bypass VPN blocks.
Device Support and Simultaneous Connections
ExpressVPN supports all major platforms including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, routers, and smart TVs. However, it limits you to 5 simultaneous connections.
Surfshark supports the same devices but stands out by allowing unlimited simultaneous connections on one subscription. This makes Surfshark a great choice for families or users with many devices.
User Interface and Ease of Use
Both VPNs have clean, user-friendly apps that are easy to install and navigate. ExpressVPN’s app focuses on simplicity with a large connect button and quick server selection.
Surfshark’s app is also simple but includes more advanced features and settings for power users. Both apps have responsive customer support built-in.
Streaming and Content Access
If you want to unblock streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer, both VPNs perform very well.
ExpressVPN is known for its reliable ability to unblock geo-restricted content without slowing down your streaming. Surfshark is no less capable and even offers a special feature called “NoBorders Mode” to use VPNs in restrictive regions.
Pricing and Plans
Pricing can be a deciding factor. ExpressVPN’s plans are more expensive but come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark is budget-friendly with lower monthly costs and offers longer-term subscriptions at great discounts. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Customer Support
Both providers offer 24/7 live chat support and detailed online guides. ExpressVPN is often praised for quick and helpful support, while Surfshark provides extensive tutorials and a responsive helpdesk.
Conclusion
Choosing between Surfshark and ExpressVPN depends on your needs:
- Choose ExpressVPN if: You want the fastest speeds, extensive server network, and are willing to pay a premium for top performance and privacy.
- Choose Surfshark if: You want unlimited device connections, a budget-friendly option, and extra privacy features like MultiHop and CleanWeb.
Both are excellent VPN services that protect your privacy and unlock content worldwide. If you are looking for a free VPN for iPhone alternatives, these paid options provide much stronger security and reliability.
In summary, for users focused on maximum speed and a proven track record, ExpressVPN is the better choice. For those who want value and flexible device usage, Surfshark is an outstanding option. Either way, using a trusted VPN service will enhance your online security and freedom.
