Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: why Surfshark is the better option in 2025
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Surfshark and ExpressVPN are not only easily recognizable names on the VPN market – they also share quite a few similarities. Both providers offer RAM-based servers, kill switches, DNS leak protection, and use similar encryption. However, Surfshark differs from ExpressVPN by offering unlimited device connections and cheaper subscriptions.
In this article I go through a detailed Surfshark vs ExpressVPN comparison to help you pick a more suitable provider based on pricing, features, and usability.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: overview
Surfshark and ExpressVPN are both highly rated VPN services and are among the best VPN providers out of 41 the Cybernews team has tested. While both providers have strengths and weaknesses, Surfshark stands out with unlimited simultaneous connections, whereas ExpressVPN allows only 8.
Additionally, Surfshark is considerably more affordable than ExpressVPN, with the latter being one of the most expensive VPN providers. Surfshark’s starting price is only $1.99/month, significantly lower than ExpressVPN’s $4.99/month.
Refer to the table below for a more detailed comparison of Surfshark vs ExpressVPN.
| Surfshark VPN | ExpressVPN | |
| ⭐ Rating: | ||
| 🥇 Overall rank: | #2 out of #41 | #4 out of #41 |
| 🖥️ Servers: | 3,200 + servers in 100 countries | 3,000 + servers in 105 countries |
| 📖 No logs policy: | No logs | No logs |
| 💵 Price: | From $1.99/month | From $4.99/month |
| 🔥 Coupons: | Surfshark coupon 87% OFF | ExpressVPN coupon 61% OFF |
| 🔒 VPN protocols: | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| 🍿 Streaming services: | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more |
| 🖥️ Platforms: | Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| 📥 Simultaneous connections: | Unlimited | 8 |
| 💁🏻 Support: | Knowledge base, 24/7 live chat, email support | Knowledge base, FAQs, email, 24/7 live chat |
We spare no effort to test the products & their features. All information is gathered by our in-house research team & fact-checked by our team of experts. Discover the ins and outs of our testing procedures.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: price comparison
Surfshark is a cheaper option than ExpressVPN. With reasonably priced long-term subscription plans, Surfshark offers more features despite a smaller price tag.
Let’s delve into a breakdown of Surfshark vs ExpressVPN pricing.
| Plan | Surfshark Starter | ExpressVPN |
| 1 month | $15.45/month | $12.95/month |
| 1-year plan | $3.19/month | $6.67/month |
| 2-year plan | $1.99/month | $4.99/month |
| Best deal | Now up to 87% OFF Surfshark + 3 months FREE | Now up to 61% OFF ExpressVPN + 4 months FREE |
Note: Pricing was last checked in April %%currentyeat%%.
Surfshark provides excellent value, especially in its long-term pricing, as it is almost 3 times more affordable than ExpressVPN. While Surfshark’s 1-month plan is slightly more expensive than ExpressVPN's, the price difference is minimal. Also, you can save significantly more by opting for Surfshark's extended plans. Surfshark's 2-year Starter plan, starting at $1.99/month, is perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly VPN option.
In contrast to Surfshark's $1.99/month, ExpressVPN's lowest price tag is $4.99/month, making it one of the more expensive providers on the market. ExpressVPN’s pricing is a significant drawback compared to not only Surfshark but also other competitors. For instance, NordVPN's introductory prices start at $3.09/month, while Proton VPN charges $3.59/month. Nonetheless, if ExpressVPN is a provider you prefer more, you can save up on its subscription plans with ExpressVPN coupon codes.
While both VPNs offer top-tier services, Surfshark stands out for its pricing flexibility, varied plan lengths, and value for users seeking longer commitments. Also, with Surfshark coupon codes you can get its services even cheaper. Besides, with Surfshark, you pay less and gain more valuable features like dark web monitoring, IP rotator, and MultiHop servers – to name a few.
ExpressVPN offers more payment options
Surfshark and ExpressVPN go above and beyond to accommodate diverse users by offering various payment options. Surfshark allows payments via credit and debit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, and cryptocurrencies.
Meanwhile, ExpressVPN takes it a step further by providing an even greater variety of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, PayPal, cryptocurrencies, and an extensive selection of local payment options.
Surfshark offers more for the lower price
With Surfshark, you get more features for the lower price, while with ExpressVPN, you pay much more and receive fewer features in return. Surfshark delivers excellent value for money with its affordable long-term plans, unlimited device connections, and advanced features like MultiHop and IP rotator, appealing to budget-conscious users.
In contrast, while ExpressVPN is known for solid performance and reliability, its higher pricing may not justify the additional cost for many users. If you prioritize affordability without compromising quality, Surfshark is a pick for you.
It's common for people to assume that ExpressVPN's higher price automatically equates to superior security. However, this isn't exactly the case. While ExpressVPN is indeed renowned for its stability and reliability, Surfshark goes above and beyond basic VPN services by offering additional security features like malware protection, ad blocking, WebRTC protection, and geo-spoofing.
Although unusual, you might discover greater value at a more affordable price. Selecting a VPN provider that can elevate your overall security by providing extra layers of protection is key.
Key differences between Surfshark and ExpressVPN
Comparing VPN services can get overwhelming, especially when there are many aspects to consider, and both ExpressVPN and Surfshark have different strengths and weaknesses. Our team tested both providers based on real user experience in our Surfshark review and ExpressVPN review articles. However, here’s a concise breakdown of the key differences when it comes to Surfshark vs ExpressVPN:
- Surfshark is cheaper. Compared to ExpressVPN, Surfshark is reasonably priced and affordable. Although Surfshark’s 1-month plan is more expensive than ExpressVPN’s, you save much more by opting for a long-term plan. For instance, Surfshark’s cheapest plan costs $1.99/month, while ExpressVPN’s is $4.99/month.
- Surfshark supports unlimited connections. Surfshark is more generous than ExpressVPN regarding simultaneous connections by not capping it at a specific number. While ExpressVPN allows only 8 simultaneous connections, with Surfshark, you don’t have to worry about that. Moreover, Surfshark allows account sharing amongst family and friends.
- Surfshark offers more unique features than ExpressVPN. The security package includes CleanWeb, MultiHop servers, IP rotator, dark web monitoring, antivirus, Surfshark search, Incogni, and Alternative ID. The elaborate security package is essential when choosing between ExpressVPN and Surfshark.
- Surfshark is more transparent about its server number than ExpressVPN. It currently has 3200+ servers. Meanwhile, while the latest word on ExpressVPN’s server number is over 3000, the provider now refuses to disclose how many servers it actually has. Due to its lack of clarity, Surfshark is considerably more honest with its customers and thus – more trustworthy.
Speed comparison: is Surfshark faster than ExpressVPN?
In the Surfshark vs ExpressVPN speed comparison, both services performed well, and their results showed only slight differences depending on location. Overall, I had no issues while streaming, torrenting, or simply surfing the net. The experience was smooth and hassle-free with all protocols that providers offer.
For these tests, I used a Windows 11 machine with an Intel i5-13600KF processor and 32GB of RAM, a MacBook Air M2 with 8GB of RAM running macOS Sonoma 14.7, and a OnePlus 10T 5G. The tests were conducted midday to ensure stable network conditions.
- Baseline: 500Mbps download / 500Mbps upload / 1ms ping
| Download | 🇺🇸 US | 🇬🇧 UK | 🇯🇵 Japan |
| Surfshark (WireGuard) | 417Mbps (83% retention) | 472Mbps (94% retention) | 466Mbps (93% retention) |
| ExpressVPN (Lightway) | 420Mbps (84% retention) | 459Mbps (92% retention) | 439Mbps (88% retention) |
Overall, Surfshark and ExpressVPN delivered similar speeds. Surfshark performed well in the UK with 94% retention in downloads and 88% in uploads, while ExpressVPN showed a slight edge in Japan with a 87% retention rate for uploads.
| Upload | 🇺🇸 US | 🇬🇧 UK | 🇯🇵 Japan |
| Surfshark (WireGuard) | 195Mbps (39% retention) | 461Mbps (92% retention) | 190Mbps (38% retention) |
| ExpressVPN (Lightway) | 163Mbps (33% retention) | 441Mbps (88% retention) | 433Mbps (87% retention) |
Although Surfshark’s upload speeds decreased in the US, it maintained competitive download rates across all locations. ExpressVPN, while slower in the US, had a strong performance in Japan and the UK. Both providers demonstrated solid performances regarding ping as well, making them close contenders in this category.
| Ping | 🇺🇸 US | 🇬🇧 UK | 🇯🇵 Japan |
| Surfshark (WireGuard) | 102ms | 38ms | 273ms |
| ExpressVPN (Lightway) | 111ms | 37ms | 278ms |
Privacy and security overview: ExpressVPN vs Surfshark
Surfshark and ExpressVPN take security and privacy seriously. Both providers have audited no-logs policies, robust and industry-leading encryptions, and reliable tools for top-notch safety.
The table below provides a full breakdown of their security features and measures.
| Surfshark | ExpressVPN | |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20, and Poly1305 | AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20, and Poly1305 |
| Hash | SHA-512 | SHA-512 |
| RAM servers | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Based outside Five/Nine/Fourteen Eyes Jurisdictions | ❌ No (Nine Eyes Alliance) | ✅ Yes |
| Independent audits | Audited in January 2024 | Audited in December 2023 |
| Kill switch | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| DNS leak protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Surfshark and ExpressVPN provide robust security features, including AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20/Poly1305 encryption, SHA-512 hashing, RAM-only servers, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Both services have undergone independent audits, with Surfshark audited in January 2024 and ExpressVPN in December 2023.
However, Surfshark is based in a country that is part of the Nine Eyes alliance, while ExpressVPN operates outside of all intelligence-sharing alliances. Both are highly secure and privacy-oriented, but ExpressVPN has a slight edge in terms of jurisdiction.
Jurisdiction
ExpressVPN has an advantage over Surfshark in terms of jurisdiction. ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, outside international surveillance alliances such as Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes. As a result, it is not subject to mandatory data retention laws.
On the other hand, Surfshark operates from the Netherlands – a country that is a part of the Nine Eyes alliance. While the Netherlands has strong privacy laws and Surfshark's no-logs policy has been independently audited several times, some users – including myself – may have valid concerns about the potential sharing of data.
Infrastructure and encryption
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark boast advanced infrastructure and top-notch encryption to meet diverse user requirements and expectations. Surfshark stands out with its support for the blazing-fast WireGuard protocol, while ExpressVPN shines with its proprietary Lightway protocol, which also delivers exceptional speed.
Both services use various protocols in addition to the industry-standard OpenVPN. Surfshark also supports IKEv2 connections for mobile devices. Surfshark discontinued its support for the IKEv2 protocol on Windows devices. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN has the IKEv2 protocol integrated in macOS and iOS apps.
It's important to note that both Surfshark and ExpressVPN prioritize robust encryption, utilizing AES-256-GCM with the SHA-512 hash and ChaCha20/Poly1305 for maximum security. These impressive features make both providers reliable, versatile and secure, providing users with top-tier VPN services. Whether it's speed, security, or versatile protocol support, Surfshark and ExpressVPN deliver exceptional solutions for consumers.
Logging policies compared
ExpressVPN’s logging practices are more privacy-friendly than Surfshark’s. Although both providers are transparent about what exactly they log and the data they collect, Surfshark actually logs connections-related information for a brief period of time.
When it comes to personal data, ExpressVPN is pretty clear about logging basic information required for account registration. It states clearly that email addresses used for signing up, as well as payment details are stored, and that’s pretty much the industry standard.
On the other hand, Surfshark states in its Terms of Services that servers store information about a connection to a particular VPN server. Essentially, that means the service logs which IP address gets assigned to you and at what exact time. Surfshark promises that any record of this information gets automatically deleted after you disconnect from the VPN, but this certainly raises substantial privacy and security concerns.
While Surfshark does not technically keep logs of user activities, it does admit to collecting some information for operational purposes. I reached out to Surfshark’s customer support for further comment on this bit in their Privacy Policy, and the agents assured me that it’s simply anonymous performance data to improve service quality.
Kill switches
ExpressVPN and Surfshark take security pretty seriously, evidenced by the inclusion of reliable and robust kill switch features on both sides. ExpressVPN’s Network Lock automatically disables internet access when the VPN disconnects, ensuring that none of your data is exposed when unencrypted.
Similarly, Surfshark’s kill switch also cuts off the internet to prevent potential data leaks. I tested both kill switches on a Windows device and simulated scenarios with the VPN connection dropping. The kill switches worked as intended, and my internet traffic was cut off immediately.
Independent audits
ExpressVPN and Surfshark have demonstrated their dedication to user privacy through rigorous independent audits. As of March 2025, ExpressVPN has undergone an impressive 22 comprehensive audits, thoroughly detailed in its Trust Center. These audits validate ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy and scrutinize other privacy and security measures, ensuring high transparency and trust for its users.
On the other hand, Surfshark has also showcased its commitment to user privacy through external audits, though the number is not as high as ExpressVPN’s. In January 2023, Deloitte verified Surfshark’s strict adherence to its no-logs policy, highlighting its dedication to user privacy. Additionally, Cure53 conducted 2 supplementary audits focusing on Surfshark’s browser extensions and server infrastructure, further reinforcing the provider’s robust privacy and security measures.
Servers and locations
Surfshark has a fleet of 3200 servers, while ExpressVPN refuses to disclose the number of servers available to its users. Although ExpressVPN previously claimed to have around 3000 servers, this figure has yet to be confirmed recently. This practice raises concerns about ExpressVPN’s transparency and clarity. I believe users have the right to know what they are signing up for.
Surfshark has servers in 100 countries worldwide, whereas ExpressVPN claims to have servers in 105 countries. However, ExpressVPN’s location number may not be exactly accurate due to the company’s questionable stance on transparency.
ExpressVPN uses proprietary TrustedServer technology, ensuring that its servers run on RAM-only hardware for enhanced privacy and no long-term data storage. On the other hand, Surfshark has an extensive server network, but it heavily relies on virtual servers for some locations. While virtual servers can potentially affect performance, Surfshark’s broad geographic distribution outweighs these concerns.
In terms of specialty servers optimized for specific needs, Surfshark stands out with the following features:
- Camouflage mode. Also known as obfuscation, this feature removes VPN traces from your connection, making your traffic more difficult to detect.
- MultiHop servers. With the MultiHop feature, your internet traffic is routed through 2 locations, and you can customize your entry and exit locations.
- NoBorders servers. This feature is designed to improve the chances of bypassing network restrictions and is automatically enabled when restriction efforts are detected.
In contrast, the ExpressVPN application does not include specialty server options, except for its stealth technology feature, which essentially serves as obfuscation.
Both providers also offer static IPs but charge different amounts – Surfshark charges $3.75/month, while ExpressVPN’s Dedicated IP costs $3.19/month.
Streaming performance
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark deliver outstanding streaming performance. While testing, I had no trouble accessing American, British, Japanese, or Australian libraries on Netflix with either VPN.
Furthermore, the streaming experience was smooth without any lagging or buffering. Whether I was tuning into Hulu or BBC iPlayer, both VPNs allowed me to stream my favorite shows and movies effortlessly.
What’s great is that both providers offer hassle-free support for streaming, and their dedicated applications for Android TVs and Fire devices make using VPNs on TV a breeze. If you ever run into any hiccups setting them up, both providers have comprehensive guides in their knowledge bases to assist you.
In terms of streaming, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are capable of unlocking most popular streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Max, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu.
| Platform | Surfshark | ExpressVPN |
| Netflix | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Hulu | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Max | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Disney+ | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| BBC iPlayer | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| YouTube and YouTube TV | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Apple TV | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Additionally, I was impressed to learn that both VPNs allow you to set up the VPN on routers, which further extends the VPN coverage to TV devices that don’t support built-in VPN applications. This is especially useful if you are using LG or Samsung TVs.
Torrenting performance
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are compatible with P2P, but they lack essential features such as SOCKS5 proxies and port forwarding. Other VPNs like CyberGhost offer servers explicitly designed for torrenting, while NordVPN provides SOCKS5 proxies for setting up torrent clients.
During testing, I downloaded a 5.7GB Ubuntu 24 client torrent file using both providers. ExpressVPN took around 4 minutes to download the file at peak speeds of 30Mbps, while Surfshark achieved faster download speeds of 52Mbps and completed the download in just 2 minutes.
However, the absence of key features like SOCKS5 limits their appeal to torrenting enthusiasts. This emphasizes the need for Surfshark and ExpressVPN to balance speed with functionality, especially when alternatives like CyberGhost and NordVPN offer more comprehensive and torrenting-oriented solutions.
Platforms and ease of use
Whichever device you rely on for your daily tasks, Surfshark and ExpressVPN have apps for any of them. Both providers support various operating systems, browsers, and other software. Let’s explore the differences in more depth.
| Surfshark | ExpressVPN | |
| Supported OS | Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Router applet | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Aircove router) |
| Dedicated Linux app | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Other software and devices | Android TV, Fire devices, routers, and more | Android TV, Fire devices, routers, and more |
| Browser extensions | Chromium, Firefox, Edge | Chromium, Firefox, Edge |
| Simultaneous connections | Unlimited | 8 |
| Usability level | Easy to set up | Easy to set up |
Surfshark and ExpressVPN are both compatible with popular OS environments, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. ExpressVPN has a slight edge for router users, as it offers a dedicated applet for its Aircove router with an integrated VPN connection.
In contrast, Surfshark supports more simultaneous connections, allowing unlimited devices to connect under a single account, while ExpressVPN caps this at 8 devices.
Overall, both options are easy to set up and navigate, providing user-friendly experiences tailored for those seeking simplicity across devices.
Desktop apps
Surfshark’s desktop app boasts a user-friendly and modern interface that grants easy access to features and server categories. It provides a comprehensive connectivity status dashboard that displays essential information such as connection time, VPN IP address, protocol, enabled features, and data usage. This level of detail is ideal for users who value control and visual aesthetics.
Meanwhile, ExpressVPN’s desktop app features a minimalist interface, with a convenient single-click connection button at its center.
For users seeking additional features or settings, they can access a separate settings window.
As someone who appreciates sleek and modern designs, I prefer Surfshark’s more advanced-looking interface to ExpressVPN’s overly simple plainness.
Mobile apps
Surfshark’s mobile app has an intuitive interface with straightforward access to all features. It also offers a VPN connectivity status dashboard, delivering real-time updates on connection details.
Meanwhile, ExpressVPN’s mobile app adopts a minimalistic approach with a simple one-click connection interface. Additionally, it includes a password manager and ExpressVPN Keys within the app.
There’s also a critical catch to consider when it comes to phone apps. Both providers have more features available for Android users. For example, Surfshark’s Android app has GPS spoofing and split tunneling features, whereas the iOS app doesn’t. The same goes for ExpressVPN, which has split tunneling available on Android devices.
Browser extensions
ExpressVPN's browser extension is designed to complement its main application. Users need to have the entire app installed in order to use the extension. I find this inconvenient, as I usually prefer to use just the extension. However, it's important to note that ExpressVPN's extension provides comprehensive encryption for all browser traffic by employing the Lightway protocol, ensuring maximum security.
On the other hand, Surfshark's browser extension operates independently, eliminating the need for a separate app installation. It offers geo-spoofing, WebRTC protection, ad blocking, and malware protection. It's important to highlight that Surfshark's browser extension functions more as a proxy by employing the HTTPS protocol.
Extra features compared
Surfshark truly stands out with its wide array of extra features, setting it apart from ExpressVPN. In my opinion, the extensive range of tools offered by Surfshark makes it a standout winner in its own league. Let’s compare the most commonly featured tools.
| Feature | Surfshark | ExpressVPN |
| Dark web monitoring | ✅ Yes (monitors emails, credit cards, IDs, passwords, personal information and IP addresses) | ❌ No |
| Smart DNS | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| DNS leak protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Web filtering | ✅ Yes (ad blocker, threat protection) | ✅ Yes (ad blocker, threat protection, parental control) |
| Split tunneling | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Kill switch | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
One of the unique features that I find most compelling about Surfshark is its Alternative ID functionality. This feature is a game-changer for me as it allows me to create an alternate persona with fictitious personal details, an email address, and a phone number for online use. In today's world, where personal data theft is a real concern, Surfshark's Alternative ID provides a protective shield, enabling users to safeguard their identities.
Another impressive feature is the Rotating IP, which automatically switches IP addresses while keeping the VPN location constant. This is particularly useful when you need to change your IP address regularly for security reasons without disrupting your connection.
Furthermore, the GPS override feature is remarkable as it alters your device's GPS location to match the IP address location when connected to the VPN. This ensures that not only your IP address but also your device's GPS location aligns with the VPN, adding an extra layer of security.
On the other hand, ExpressVPN deserves recognition for its ExpressVPN Keys, a separately installed browser extension featuring an app-integrated password manager. It offers autofill, a password generator, unlimited storage, and password health monitoring. Although ExpressVPN may lack some of the advanced security features, the inclusion of ExpressVPN Keys makes it a solid choice for users.
Video review: Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
If you’re more of a visual learner, you can also check out our Surfshark vs ExpressVPN YouTube video review. You’ll find out everything about their features, security measures, apps, and more.
Customer support
Surfshark and ExpressVPN both offer great customer support options. For human assistance, you can contact either provider by email or 24/7 live chat.
| Support | Surfshark | ExpressVPN |
| 24/7 live chat | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Email support | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Chatbot | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Phone line | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Knowledge base | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
While both services offer various support options, the experience was much more pleasant with Surfshark. For example, when setting up a VPN on an Asus router, I was able to find all the necessary guides in the knowledge base. As for ExpressVPN’s knowledge base, it seemed limited and sparse. While there are some troubleshooting guides, they were not as extensive to my liking as Surfshark’s.
As for live customer support, Surfshark also exceeded my expectations. The conversation and troubleshooting process felt human and natural, and kind remarks made my experience many times more enjoyable. The agents were polite and quick in helping me resolve minor issues. Surfshark also has a chatbot that is perfectly capable of answering less advanced questions.
ExpressVPN’s live chat support felt more robotic and less natural. Also, it took considerably more time for the agents to reply to my messages, so I found myself waiting for 2-3 minutes. That starkly contrasts Surfshark’s quick responses in no more than 30 seconds.
Comparison methodology: Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
Having a thorough VPN testing methodology is crucial when comparing 2 robust services. Here is a summary of the main criteria:
- Security and privacy (20%). I evaluated the security measures employed by both providers, including encryption and hash. Since a VPN is ineffective without solid privacy guarantees, I also assessed their jurisdiction risks, policies, and overall transparency.
- Pricing (15%). I assessed the cost of each provider, the plans they offer, and the features included in those plans. This information helped me compare ExpressVPN vs Surfshark to determine which provider provides better value for money.
- Features (15%). This criterion is essential as it indicates whether a VPN provider’s pricing is justified. The more features a provider offers and the better their functionality, the higher I rated it.
- Servers and streaming (15%). I evaluated how each VPN performs with streaming services and whether it can unblock content libraries and access other geo-restricted content across various locations. Additionally, I considered server and location numbers since a vast server fleet is crucial for bypassing geographic restrictions.
- Torrenting capabilities (15%). Since many users are usually looking for VPNs with great torrenting capabilities, I tested Surfshark’s and ExpressVPN’s compatibility with P2P.
- Platforms and ease of use (10%). While reviewing the VPN providers, I evaluated the supported platforms, app designs, and overall experience.
- Customer support (10%). Since customer support is integral to resolving issues that most VPN users face, I reviewed all possible means of assistance from both providers. This included evaluation of knowledge bases, friendliness and willingness to assist, and versatility regarding various forms of possible support.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: which one should you choose?
Surfshark and ExpressVPN are providers worth each other’s competition. Their performance and security showed to be pretty similar, which is evident from the data we have gathered.
| Category | Surfshark | ExpressVPN |
| Overall rating | 4.7 | 4.3 |
| Security and privacy | ❌ | ✅ |
| Pricing | ✅ | ❌ |
| Speed | ✅ | ✅ |
| Streaming | ✅ | ✅ |
| Torrenting | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ease of use | ✅ | ❌ |
| Extra features | ✅ | ❌ |
| Customer support | ✅ | ❌ |
Surfshark arguably excels at almost every category and beats ExpressVPN. It’s affordable, easy to use, and has a variety of features for an all-around enhanced security. The only considerable disadvantage I can point out is Surfshark’s jurisdiction, since the Netherlands belongs to the Nine Eyes alliance.
Nevertheless, ExpressVPN is also a strong competitor as it’s evident from the tests and performance results. Despite being pricey, it’s a solid and fast VPN for streaming and torrenting.
FAQ
Is Surfshark VPN better than ExpressVPN?
Yes, Surfshark is better than ExpressVPN. It offers faster speeds, lower pricing, and more advanced features like MultiHop and an IP rotator. Moreover, Surfshark allows unlimited device connections, compared to ExpressVPN's 8 connections. Thus, Surfshark offers more value despite lower pricing and is arguably better than ExpressVPN.
Surfshark or ExpressVPN: which is better for gaming?
Surfshark is better for gaming than ExpressVPN. My testing showed that Surfshark is perfect for gaming because of its low ping, high speeds, and strong security features, such as DDoS protection. Additionally, with a vast server fleet, you can choose between different servers to find ones that are not overcrowded for optimal performance.
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