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Surfshark vs Proton VPN: which VPN is better?


Many users agree that Surfshark and Proton VPN are some of the best VPN services available on the market. However, which one is better is a topic of continuous discussion.

For starters, Surfshark VPN is significantly cheaper and offers unlimited connections, making it an appealing option for frugal customers. Meanwhile, Proton VPN hails from Switzerland and has open-sourced its software, thus solidifying its reputation as a truly transparent service.

We won’t know for sure unless we conduct a thorough Proton VPN vs Surfshark comparison in various VPN-related areas. So join us as we overview how these providers fare regarding speed, security, streaming, usability, and more.

Surfshark vs Proton VPN overview

Although both services provide an impressive array of features at affordable prices, the overall winner is Surfshark VPN. Starting prices are only $2.19/month, which is significantly lower than the $3.59/month Proton VPN requires.

Furthermore, Surfshark boasts a more extensive server network, better results when unblocking geo-blocked content, and faster speeds. However, Proton VPN is still an excellent and worthwhile service, especially if you’re concerned about privacy. After all, the service is based in privacy-friendly Switzerland, while Surfshark operates in the Netherlands, a member of the Nine-Eyes alliance.

Surfshark VPNProton VPN
⭐ Rating:
4.7
4.2
🥇 Overall rank:#2 out of #41#7 out of #41
🖥️ Servers:3,200 + servers in 100 countries9,900 + servers in 117 countries
📖 No logs policy:No logsNo logs
💵 Price:From $2.19/monthFrom $3.59/month
🔥 Coupons:Surfshark coupon 86% OFFProton VPN coupon 64% OFF
🔒 VPN protocols:WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec
🍿 Streaming services:Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and moreNetflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, HBO Max, Disney+
🖥️ Platforms:Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOSWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
📥 Simultaneous connections:Unlimited10
💁🏻 Support:Knowledge base, 24/7 live chat, email supportGuides, FAQs, support tickets, subreddit
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Surfshark is widely known for its excellent price-to-quality ratio, and comparing it to Proton VPN has proved that once again. For instance, Surfshark costs almost two times less than Proton VPN, yet it comes with a larger server fleet and a more versatile set of features. Nevertheless, let’s put both competitors side to side to gain a better understanding of their pros and cons.

Plans and pricing

As mentioned previously, Surfshark is clearly more affordable. At least, that’s the case when comparing solely the VPN plans. However, customers of either service can opt for additional cybersecurity feature packages. But first, let’s look at the essential Surfshark vs Proton VPN plans side-by-side.

PlanSurfsharkProton VPN
Lowest monthly price$2.19/month$3.59/month
Highest monthly price$15.45/month$9.99/month
Monthly$15.45/month$9.99/month
One year$3.19/month$3.99/month
Two years$2.19/month$3.59/month
Check latest Surfshark discountsCheck latest Proton VPN discounts

Note: Prices last checked January, 2025.

While Proton VPN has a cheaper $9.99/month monthly plan, the more-extended subscriptions don’t provide significant discounts. Specifically, the annual plan costs $3.99/month, while the lengthiest two-year plan costs $3.59/month. As you can see, discounts max out at merely 64% off.

On the other hand, Surfshark VPN offers more expensive short-term plans yet slashes prices significantly if you grab extended subscriptions. To be precise, paying monthly sets you back $15.45 each time. However, the annual plan costs $3.19/month, while the 2-year subscription costs $2.19/month. If you do the math, discounts reach a whopping 86%.

One vital detail that could sway budget-conscious buyers is the fact that Proton VPN has a worthwhile free plan. Unsurprisingly, it comes with certain limitations, but it’s a good way of getting familiar with the service. And if you’re ready for the premium subscription, Proton VPN accepts credit/debit cards, bank transfers, PayPal, cash, and Bitcoin.

Unfortunately, Surfshark doesn't offer a free VPN plan. Luckily, there’s an alternative method of risk-free introduction in the form of the 7-day free trial. It’s available on either the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Moreover, Surfshark’s more diverse payment options include credit/debit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, Giropay, WebMoney, and cryptocurrencies.

Finally, whichever VPN you choose, your premium subscription is secured with a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Wrapping up
Surfshark VPN is significantly cheaper than Proton VPN if you opt for long-term plans. However, Proton VPN has a compelling ace up its sleeve – a completely free plan.

Netflix and streaming performance

PlatformSurfsharkProton VPN
Netflix
BBC iPlayer
Amazon Prime Video
Hulu
HBO Max
Disney+
YouTube

Surfshark and Proton VPN are excellent VPNs for streaming. Both have no trouble unblocking popular platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more.

What's more, both providers maintain excellent internet connection speed. This ensures that you can stream your favorite TV shows without any interruptions.

However, there are a few aspects that put Surfshark ahead in this category. For starters, Surfshark provides extra versatility with Smart DNS. This feature is essential if your home entertainment system doesn’t support VPN software and you don’t want to set up your router with a VPN.

Another perk is that one Surfshark account supports unlimited simultaneous connections whereas Proton VPN allows you to use only 10 devices at the same time. With Surfshark, you and your friends can unblock your desired streaming platforms without worrying about exceeding the connection limit.

Wrapping up
Both services are excellent for streaming, but Surfshark gains the edge due to Smart DNS and unlimited device connections.

Surfshark vs Proton VPN: which is more secure?

SurfsharkProton VPN
EncryptionAES-256 and ChaCha20AES-256 and ChaCha20
HashSHA-512SHA-384
RAM-only serversYesNo
Based inThe NetherlandsSwitzerland
No-logs policyAuditedAudited
Obfuscation featureYesYes
Kill switchYesYes
IP and DNS leak protectionYesYes
Surfshark VPN reviewProton VPN review

Both VPNs provide strong digital protection and are considered some of the most secure VPNs on the market. Utilizing these services masks your activities with virtually uncrackable AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption and reliable Secure Hash Algorithms (SHA).

A few key differences between Surfshark and Proton VPN make it challenging to define which is superior in overall security.

For starters, Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, a member of the Fourteen-Eyes alliance. They have, however, undergone numerous independent audits. Deloitte performed an audit of Surfshark's logging policy while Cure53 reviewed its browser extension and server infrastructure. Speaking of which, the entire network runs on RAM-only server hardware, which can be considered a huge boon regarding data integrity.

On the flip side, Proton VPN operates from Switzerland, an undisputed haven if you’re looking for absolute confidentiality. Moreover, a third party (SEC Consult) thoroughly audited the no-logs policy. And if you’re curious about details, you’re free to look through the code because everything is open-source.

Infrastructure

It’s crucial to elaborate on the difference between standard and RAM-only server technology to clarify why Surfshark has the superior infrastructure.

Most VPN providers use standard data centers that utilize hard drives. The thing with hard drives is that they store data permanently, meaning information is accessible even when the hardware is unplugged. So, in the unlikely event that an intruder should gain access to the server, they could potentially siphon a fair bit of data. Alternatively, malicious software could wreak havoc for extended periods before it’s noticed and patched out.

As the name suggests, RAM servers utilize Random Access Memory. This memory is used only when the server is running. Once the hardware is shut down or rebooted, it returns to a clean slate. That leaves no chance for malware or user data to persist.

So far, Proton VPN hasn’t upgraded its fleet to take advantage of RAM-only technology, leaving Surfshark the better choice if you prioritize hardware superiority.

Privacy

Both Surfshark and Proton VPN adheres to industry-standard privacy practices. The latter operates from Switzerland, a country known for its confidentiality and non-compliance with foreign authorities. Meanwhile, Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, a member of the Nine-Eyes alliance, which is a bit of a downside.

Another important factor is independently audited no-logs policies that both of the competitors follow. Not less important is the fact that Proton VPN’s apps are open-sourced and available for public scrutiny. In the meantime, Surfshark’s software is closed-source, although that’s the norm among many VPN services.

Finally, Surfshark supports anonymous payment via various cryptocurrencies, while Proton VPN only accepts Bitcoin. So, putting it all together, both competitors are rather equal, coming with different strengths, but ensuring reliability.

Logging

Currently, both Proton VPN and Surfshark have been independently audited by third-party firms. The two services adhere to strict no-logs policies and don’t collect any personally identifiable information. Additionally, both are transparent and provide warrant canaries to notify customers about data requests from foreign entities.

Speed comparison: Surfshark vs Proton VPN

Connection speed is arguably the most important factor when picking a VPN service. After all, slow connectivity negatively impacts all other activities, such as web browsing or video streaming.

Thankfully, these two VPNs go above and beyond to provide lightning-fast upload and download speeds. A clear sign of that is the inclusion of the WireGuard tunneling protocol. With it, Surfshark retained 93% of initial connection speeds, while Proton VPN retained 86% on average.

According to our speed test tool, when stacking Surfshark and Proton VPN against each other, Surfshark appeared to be faster in the US, France, Singapore, Australia and Canada as well. The only location where Proton VPN was speedier was United Kingdom.

Data period: 02.03 - 02.17
Download retention
US (NY) US (NY)
96% (482 Mbit/s) 90% (452 Mbit/s)
United Kingdom United Kingdom
93% (467 Mbit/s) 94% (471 Mbit/s)
France France
96% (481 Mbit/s) 89% (447 Mbit/s)
Singapore Singapore
89% (449 Mbit/s) 79% (396 Mbit/s)
Australia Australia
86% (433 Mbit/s) 80% (403 Mbit/s)
Canada Canada
94% (473 Mbit/s) 82% (412 Mbit/s)
Upload retention
US (NY) US (NY)
79% (399 Mbit/s) 89% (448 Mbit/s)
United Kingdom United Kingdom
84% (424 Mbit/s) 92% (460 Mbit/s)
France France
79% (395 Mbit/s) 88% (443 Mbit/s)
Singapore Singapore
15% (75 Mbit/s) 76% (384 Mbit/s)
Australia Australia
25% (127 Mbit/s) 76% (384 Mbit/s)
Canada Canada
81% (405 Mbit/s) 87% (436 Mbit/s)
Download/Upload baseline speed - 500 Mbit/s

Additionally, both providers have implemented proprietary means of improving efficiency. With Proton VPN, you have VPN Accelerator. Meanwhile, Surfshark uses SDN (Software Defined Networking) technology. In short, Proton VPN’s technology reduces inefficiencies in tunneling protocol code, while Surfshark users connect to a unified server network, rather than separate servers.

However, surface-level analysis is nothing compared to real-life testing. As such, we took both for a spin in various regions to see which grants greater average connection speeds. And as you can see in the table above, Surfshark performed much better than Proton VPN.

Wrapping up
While both Surfshark and Proton VPN are incredibly fast, Surfshark consistently outshines its opponent in this area, offering slightly faster speeds.

Features overview

Customers of either VPN have no shortage of tools for tackling various nuisances across the web. Unsurprisingly, there are differences in additional features, device support, and implementation. But the point is that you’ll be hard-pressed to find problems that Surfshark and Proton VPN can’t conquer.

Double VPN (Multi-Hop)

Most users will have their needs met with a regular VPN connection. But if you’re a human rights activist, whistleblower, or seeking asylum from oppressive governments, you’ll need multiple layers of encryption. These critical scenarios are precisely what Double VPN is for. Luckily, both VPNs of this comparison grant this feature.

Surfshark calls this tool MultiHop, which gives you an array of connection options with predefined entry and exit locations. The feature is available on desktop and mobile devices.

With Proton VPN, the perk is called Secure Core. One noticeable difference is that there are only three entry country options (Switzerland, Sweden, and Iceland) but much more exit options. And just like with Surfshark, the feature is available on computers and mobile phones.

Split tunneling

Sometimes, it’s important to limit your VPN traffic exclusively to a single app. Alternatively, you might need some apps excluded from the tunnel. Whichever scenario it is, split tunneling is the tool for the job.

Surfshark-Bypasser-Windows

Proton VPN did not rebrand this feature, while Surfshark felt the need to call it Bypasser. Other than that, the two are practically identical. They have excellent customization options and are available on Android and Windows devices.

Web filters

Besides changing your location, VPNs have the power to alter your browsing experience by filtering out malicious web domains and blocking malware. While this sounds simple, it accomplishes many great things, such as ad blocking, tracker blocking, and phishing attack mitigation.

Proton VPN NetShield

There’s no standard naming convention among VPN services for this feature. As such, providers come up with their own labels. Proton VPN calls it NetShield, while Surfshark refers to it as CleanWeb. Furthermore, these tools are exclusive to desktop and mobile devices. Surfshark's CleanWeb is also available on your browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox, and Edge).

VPN masking

One of the most widespread ways of restricting VPN users is by blocking VPN server IP addresses. However, this isn’t very effective if providers frequently renew their hardware with fresh IPs. As such, some online services and networks take things to the next level and block everyone from using virtual private networks.

You’ll encounter such blanket limitations at schools, workplaces, and country-wide in oppressive regions like China. Thankfully, the best VPNs provide a workaround in the form of VPN masking. In short, these tools further obfuscate your VPN traffic and make it appear as regular HTTPS activities.

Proton VPN can bypass VPN blocks by enabling the Stealth protocol on Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. With Surfshark, the feature is called Camouflage Mode and is supported on Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS.

Bonus features

The two services can cover other cybersecurity areas if you’re willing to commit to a more substantial subscription. But since these tools are optional, we didn’t consider their efficacy when finalizing our Surfshark vs Proton VPN comparison.

Proton VPN delves beyond cybersecurity and provides tools for keeping your digital assets and activities private. A Proton VPN subscription includes Proton Mail, Drive, Calendar, and Proton Pass, Proton's password manager. These tools are self-explanatory and allow privacy enthusiasts to encrypt practically every facet of their digital lives.

On the other hand, the Surfshark One bundle includes Antivirus, Alert, and Search. This trifecta is responsible for blocking viruses, notifying you about data leaks, and allowing depersonalized online searches. Additionally, Surfshark also offers dedicated IPs in 11 countries (including the US, the UK, Australia, and South Africa), for an additional price. With a dedicated IP, the chances of getting blocked by websites are lower, and you can easily avoid excessive captchas everywhere you go. This bundle also includes Alternative ID to help you protect your credentials from third-parties you don't trust.

Server locations

SurfsharkProton VPN
Servers3200+9900+
Countries (total)100117
Virtual locationsYesYes
Specialty serversYesYes
RAM-only serversYesNo

Surfshark and Proton VPN both have a similar number of servers. However, Surfshark's server network is spread out across more countries. To be precise, Surfshark VPN offers 3200+ servers across 100 countries. Meanwhile, Proton VPN operates a fleet of 9900+ servers across 117 countries. It’s important to note that these impressive region numbers are achieved with the help of virtual servers.

You’ll be happy to know that both providers also offer specialty servers as well. Surfshark customers can choose from MultiHop and Static IP locations, while Proton VPN provides Secure Core as well as Tor and streaming servers.

Wrapping up
Surfshark wins by providing a more extensive fleet that covers a greater number of regions.

Torrenting

Although both options are great VPNs for torrenting due to their excellent speed and security, Surfshark has the edge over Proton VPN. The deciding factor was the absence of any limits on P2P traffic, allowing users to achieve optimal connectivity anywhere.

Meanwhile, Proton VPN permits torrenting only on a handful of servers in countries where P2P is legal. This limitation can result in slower download speeds for users in specific locations.

Proton VPN could have gained the upper hand if it permitted P2P traffic on the free plan. Sadly, that’s not the case, making it unsuitable as a free VPN for torrenting.

Wrapping up
Torrenting enthusiasts should go with Surfshark because the VPN permits P2P activities on all of its servers.

Platforms, interface and ease of use

SurfsharkProton VPN
Supported OSWindows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOSWindows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
Other software and devicesAndroid TVs, Amazon Fire devices, ChromebookAndroid TVs, Amazon Fire devices, Chromebook
Browser extensionsChrome, Firefox, and EdgeGoogle Chrome, Brave, Microsoft Edge, Chromium, Opera, and Vivaldi, Firefox, LibreWolf, and Waterfox
Simultaneous connectionsUnlimited10
Usability levelEasy-to-useEasy-to-use

The two services are practically identical regarding device and platform compatibility. Customers unlock fully-featured desktop and mobile applications, plus specialized apps for certain streaming devices (Android TV and Amazon Fire TV). However, you also have the option to protect alternative devices via manual router configuration.

Besides that, Surfshark has an edge over Proton VPN in this category in one significant way. The Surfshark account permits limitless device connections, while Proton VPN allows only 10.

Desktop apps

The desktop apps of our two contenders took somewhat different approaches in realizing their application vision.

Proton VPN users can pick their desired server location using the detailed world map, a menu in the bottom left, or the search bar above it. The main menu also includes buttons for enabling essential features (Secure Core, kill switch, NetShield, port forwarding) and displays detailed information about the VPN connection. However, extensive customization options are tucked away in the top-left menu.

Proton VPN Windows interface connected
Proton VPN desktop interface

Overall, the application is intuitive, modern-looking, and packed with information. It's fairly simple to navigate and is good for beginners.

On the flip side, Surfshark took the minimalist approach and kept the main menu with just the essentials. There’s no map for choosing server locations, only the list, and a search bar. Meanwhile, a small side panel on the left keeps the settings menu for customizing your connection and enabling other features. It also nests Search, Alert, and Antivirus.

Surfshark Windows interface connected
Surfshark desktop interface

Surfshark is preferable if you like a tidy application with separate compartments while keeping the main menu uncluttered and to the point.

Mobile apps

Both Surfshark and Proton VPN offer easy-to-use mobile apps that follow the same design as their desktop apps. However, if you want a seamless experience between desktop and mobile, Surfshark is the way to go.

surfshark-android-app_2
Surfshark mobile interface

The mobile app looks almost identical to the aforementioned desktop version, with the side panel moving to the bottom. Some features are absent, although some exclusive ones, like GPS Spoofing, make an appearance.

Proton VPN app servers on a map ios v5
Proton VPN mobile interface

Unsurprisingly, a tiny mobile screen can’t accommodate the bonus information the Proton VPN desktop version brings. However, you can still pick your connection location via the map or by scrolling through a list of countries. It's still relatively easy to use, although a bit more cluttered than Surfshark.

Customer support

SurfsharkProton VPN
24/7 live chat
Email
Phone line
Guides and articles
FAQs

There’s a slim chance of running into VPN-related issues regardless of which service you purchase. However, these problems are barely an inconvenience if you can quickly resolve them by reaching out to experts. And as you know, the swiftest way to do that is via 24/7 live chat.

Sadly, Proton VPN lacks this option, leaving it to play second fiddle to Surfshark VPN. However, you can contact customer support via email with both Surfshark and Proton VPN. In addition, if you prefer written guides and tutorials, both providers will suit your needs.

Wrapping up
Surfshark one-ups Proton VPN in the customer support category by giving users the option to ask for help via 24/7 live chat.

Surfshark vs Proton VPN – which one wins?

CategorySurfsharkProton VPN
Streaming
Price
Security
Speed
Features
Servers
Torrenting
Ease of use
Customer support

The results are in and Surfshark has emerged victorious. Despite its lower price, the service outshines Proton VPN in areas like speed, server network, and streaming performance. In other categories, the two are on-par or just marginally different.

However, we must note that Proton VPN will appeal to privacy enthusiasts due to its residence in Switzerland and open-source software. But if you want the best price-to-performance ratio, I recommend Surfshark VPN.

Comparison methodology: Surfshark VPN vs. Proton VPN

When comparing Surfshark to Proton VPN, our research team and I tested and reviewed nearly a dozen of different criteria. Here are the factors that helped determine which VPN is the more reputable one:

  • Streaming performance. Streaming is one of the main aspects of why a user goes after a VPN. The VPN provider that has irrefutable capabilities of bypassing geo-blocks implemented by the streaming platforms is by all means closer to the win.
  • Pricing. First and foremost, it’s important that a VPN offers a fair price-to-quality ratio. However, we also take note of what types of subscriptions they offer, whether there’s a free trial or a generous money-back guarantee, and what payment methods are available.
  • Security measures. Starting from advanced encryption and continuing with an audited privacy policy – all that and even additional security features matter.
  • Connection performance. During our tests, we were eager to find out which VPN leaves a less noticeable trace on the network speed without compromising online security.
  • Extra features. Each additional feature adds up to improve your online experience. With them, you can customize your VPN connection as well as online possibilities to the full extent.
  • Server fleet. An extensive server fleet is inseparable from a reputable VPN provider. A vast amount of servers in a versatile selection of regions ensure overall better network performance anywhere.
  • Torrenting support. While P2P file sharing is commonly avoided among VPNs due to the negative approach of piracy, it’s undeniable that users do need it. That’s why we consider P2P support essential.
  • Applications. The quality of a VPN highly depends on intuitive and user-friendly applications personalized for the most popular operating systems.
  • Customer support. As advanced as a VPN might be, effective customer support is crucial. We prioritize 24/7 available live chats as well as ticketing systems with extensive help guides.

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