Our Verdict
Overall, Surfshark is a great VPN that’s rated 9.2 based on our criteria. Its most notable feature is its value: despite its cheap price, the VPN has excellent security standards, an audited privacy policy, and lots of extra features. It even unblocks 9 Netflix regions. However, its speeds were slower than similar VPNs in our tests, and it doesn’t work for bypassing strict censorship.
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- Unblocks 9 Netflix libraries
- Budget price of $2.29
- Audited logging policy & diskless servers
- Lots of advanced security features
- Torrenting allowed
- User-friendly apps & unlimited simultaneous connections
- Disappointing anti-censorship mode
- Based in the Netherlands (EU)
- No port forwardingKill switch not enabled by default
- Kill switch leaks on macOS
- Not compatible with IPv6 connections
Surfshark VPN has been around since 2018. Based in the Netherlands, it has quickly become one of the most popular VPNs on the market.
In 2022, Surfshark merged with Nord Security — the company behind NordVPN. Though they now exist under one holding company, the two VPN services still operate independently.
In this Surfshark review, we test its performance in 10 different categories to find out how well it performs, whether it’s safe to use, and if it’s worth using compared to other top-rated VPN services.
Who Should Get Surfshark ?
Get Surfshark if:
- You want an excellent all-around VPN. ExpressVPN is a well-polished option that performs exceptionally well in all of our testing categories.
- You want to access geo-blocked streaming services. ExpressVPN works to unblock every popular streaming service, including US Netflix, Hulu, YouTube TV, and BBC iPlayer.
- You haven’t used a VPN before. ExpressVPN’s apps are easier to use than all other VPN software we’ve reviewed. It requires no learning curve, so you can get started without prior experience.
Avoid Surfshark if:
- You’re on a tight budget. ExpressVPN is the fourth most expensive VPN of all 65 VPNs that we’ve reviewed.
- You want an all-in-one cybersecurity product. ExpressVPN only includes a VPN, a poor tracker blocker, and a password manager. It won’t protect you from viruses, malware, or ads.
- You need to seed torrent files. ExpressVPN doesn’t support port forwarding, so you won’t be able to connect directly to other users’ torrenting clients.
- You’re on a tight budget. ExpressVPN is the fourth most expensive VPN of all 65 VPNs that we’ve reviewed.
Streaming
Unblocks Every Major Global Streaming Site
Surfshark is an excellent VPN for streaming. It consistently unblocks every major international streaming site including 9 international Netflix regions, UK TV channels, and geo-restricted services like HBO Max and Hulu. You can also use Surfshark’s Smart DNS to stream on devices that are not compatible with VPN apps.
Ranked #4 out of 65 VPNs for Streaming
Streaming Platform
- Amazon Prime Video
- BBC iPlayer
- Channel 4
- Disney+
- Hotstar India
- Hulu
- ITVX
- Max
- Netflix US
- YouTube TV
Works with ExpressVPN
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
Speed
A Reliable, Super-Fast VPN
Our test results show that Surfshark is a dependably fast VPN. When connected to a nearby server, our download speeds dropped by just 5%, which is more than fast enough for streaming, gaming, and almost anything else. With an average speed loss of 17% across all our long-distance test connections Surfshark still impresses, although is outclassed by rival VPNs like Hotspot Shield and IPVanish.
Ranked #24 out of 65 VPNs for Speed
Privacy & Logging Policy
Diskless VPN Servers & No Identifying Logs
Surfshark’s privacy standards are excellent. It logs almost nothing about its users, uses diskless servers, and it comes from a trustworthy company that has commissioned independent audits into its logging policy and server security. The one problem is Surfshark’s EU jurisdiction, which has forceful data retention laws.
Ranked #17 out of 65 VPNs for Privacy & Logging Policy
Surfshark Details
