Article Summary
- Best Surfshark alternative: NordVPN – More server locations, includes a password manager, and option of anonymous payment → Get for $3.09/mo
- Privacy-first option: Proton VPN – No-logs VPN with open-source apps as well as port forwarding → Get for $2.99/mo
- Simple all-rounder: ExpressVPN – Beginner-friendly, highly transparent alternative with quality extras → Get for $2.49/mo
- Compared: I put leading VPNs side-by-side to see how their speed, privacy, streaming, and value stack up
Surfshark stands out as one of the leading VPN services, offering an array of features, unlimited device connections, and competitive pricing that appeals to budget-conscious users. Yet some users require capabilities beyond what Surfshark provides. This may be a larger server network, port forwarding for advanced networking, or anonymous payment methods.
No VPN is without its flaws. Where one service may have the edge when it comes to speed, another may have stronger privacy guarantees. To help you find the right Surfshark alternative for your needs, I evaluated VPNs against Surfshark across speed, privacy, streaming, and value.
Why Look for a Surfshark Alternative?
So, why switch from Surfshark? Although it’s a great all-rounder, it hits a few hard limits if you’re a power user. Notably, it doesn’t support port forwarding, which can be a dealbreaker for serious torrenting. It also has a smaller server footprint than some competitors, which may limit your ability to access geo-blocked content. Surfshark doesn’t accept cash so it’s not possible to sign up anonymously.
Best Surfshark Alternatives Compared at a Glance
Not sure which Surfshark alternative is the best match? Here’s a quick snapshot of where the top contenders outperform Surfshark:
- NordVPN: Offers more server locations and has unique extras including cloud storage. Option to pay anonymously.
- Proton VPN: Stricter no-logs policy as well as open-source apps. Offers port forwarding and accepts payment in cash.
- ExpressVPN: Far more independent audits under its belt and comes with its own password manager.
- IPVanish: Unique features such as cloud storage and phone support. Also permits unlimited device connections.
- Private Internet Access: Higher degree of customization as well as advanced features like port forwarding.
Top Surfshark Alternatives Reviewed
1. NordVPN – Best Surfshark alternative
NordVPN solves pretty much all of Surfshark’s limitations, making it the best alternative available – and our best VPN overall.
A massive network across 181 locations far exceeds most VPNs, Surfshark included. While both VPNs have servers in popular locations like the US, UK, and Australia, only NordVPN has servers in, say, Bermuda or Tajikistan.
More server locations means greater flexibility for finding fast nearby servers when traveling, or simply bypassing geo-blocks on online content. Like Surfshark, NordVPN had a 100% unblocking rate when we tested it with streaming services like Netflix.
The two VPNs are closely matched when it comes to speed too, so you’ll have no trouble streaming in 4K resolution lag-free or playing fast-paced multiplayer games that require low latency.
With NordVPN, anonymous payment is possible by purchasing a subscription box in cash (available in countries including the US, Canada, UK, and Germany).
Surfshark may have a lot of features, but NordVPN offers several that Surfshark doesn’t. This includes a password manager, encrypted cloud storage, and Onion Over VPN servers. Not to mention NordVPN has introduced its own antivirus.
Or read our full NordVPN review.
2. Proton VPN – Best if privacy is your priority
If privacy is your priority, Proton VPN is a compelling Surfshark alternative. It has one of the most thorough no-logs policies of any VPN and, unlike Surfshark, doesn’t keep temporary logs (even if Surfshark does delete them within 15 minutes of a session ending).
Privacy-conscious users may take issue with the fact that Surfshark is headquartered in the Netherlands, a Nine Eyes intelligence alliance member. In contrast, Proton VPN operates out of Switzerland which is one of the most privacy-friendly countries.
Proton VPN’s apps are open-source so anyone can anyone can inspect them for vulnerabilities and, unlike Surfshark, it even lets you pay anonymously in cash (though you’ll have to sign up for a free account to find this option).
Despite the obvious privacy benefits, Proton VPN matches Surfshark’s unblocking, accessing everything we tried it against including the US and UK Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Server speeds were comparable too.
A big selling point of Proton VPN for torrenters? It offers port forwarding. It also has one of the largest VPN server networks whichcovers 127 locations compared to the 100 of Surfshark.
Or read our full Proton VPN review.
3. ExpressVPN – For if you want to keep things simple
Although Surfshark’s no-logs policy has been audited, ExpressVPN has undergone over two dozen audits. This includes its no-logs policy, apps, and Lightway protocol. As such, it’s one of the most transparent VPN providers around.
ExpressVPN is beginner-friendly, offering a straightforward app interface across all platforms. Its custom router firmware stands out, making it easier to secure every device without having to install an app on each.
Between ExpressVPN’s network covering 105 locations and Surfshark’s spanning 100, the two are evenly matched. Likewise, both are fast enough for all online activities.
Not everyone wants lots of extra features so if you’re seeking a more streamlined experience, ExpressVPN is that. Still, it has some unique quality additions such as its password manager, ExpressVPN Keys.
Like Surfshark, ExpressVPN offers three subscription tiers. Prices are comparable across the board although one month plans with ExpressVPN start from $12.99 as opposed to $15.45 with Surfshark.
Or read our full ExpressVPN review.
4. IPVanish – Ideal for sharing with family
For those who want a Surfshark alternative without having to give up unlimited simultaneous connections, IPVanish is for you. It’s ideal if you have a lot of devices or just want to share VPN protection with family.
Surfshark is one of the fastest VPNs we’ve tested but IPVanish is no slouch in this department. We had just 11.67% speed loss on average, allowing for lag and buffer-free streaming.
IPVanish doesn’t offer as many extras as Surfshark but still has features that set it apart. Notably, it has introduced cloud storage and a secure browser.
IPVanish is one of very few VPNs to offer phone support. IPVanish is priced at just $2.19 a month which is very similar to Surfshark.
Or read our full IPVanish review.
5. Private Internet Access – Advanced customization for power users
Power users and torrenters who require a high level of control over their VPN connection appreciate Private Internet Access. With it, you can choose your encryption level and even create connection rules like auto-connecting on all wifi networks.
Just some of the advanced features you’ll only find with PIA include a SOCKS5 proxy, port forwarding, and unusually detailed split tunneling controls.
Whereas Surfshark prioritizes ease of use, PIA’s focus is user flexibility. The fact that you can choose exactly which information you see in the app’s home view – and in which order – is testament to this.
Surfshark performed better when accessing popular streaming platforms but PIA held its own speed-wise. We had just 12.26% speed loss compared to our base connection.
When you consider everything PIA offers (including unlimited simultaneous connections), prices starting from just $1.33 a month – cheaper than Surfshark – is all the more impressive.
Visit PrivateInternetAccess.com
Or read our full Private Internet Access review.
How We Tested the Best Surfshark Alternatives
Want to know how I came up with my list of the best Surfshark alternatives? Here’s how we tested them in areas including speed and privacy as part of our thorough 13-step review process:
- Speed: We ran speed tests across multiple regions, measuring download and upload speeds and comparing these to our base connection.
- Privacy: We read the fine print of each VPN provider’s no-logs policy to find out if there’s logging and whether this is identifying.
- Streaming: We use VPN servers to access streaming platforms including Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max, recording each provider’s hit-rate.
- Value: We weigh up everything a VPN has to offer in relation to its pricing to determine value.
How to Choose the Right Surfshark Alternative for You
Still undecided? See how your specific needs line up with the best Surfshark alternatives:
- I want the best overall VPN with a blend of performance and protection. Answer: NordVPN.
- I need a VPN where I can pay anonymously in cash to protect my privacy. Answer: Proton VPN.
- I’m looking for an easy-to-use VPN that doesn’t overwhelm with extras. Answer: ExpressVPN.
- I still want unlimited connections but also added benefits such as cloud storage. Answer: IPVanish.
- I’m a power user looking for advanced customization and control. Answer: Private Internet Access.
FAQs
+ Is Surfshark owned by NordVPN??+ Is there a free alternative to Surfshark?
+ Which Surfshark alternative is best for streaming Netflix?