These are the two VPNs we recommend, and on paper they look similar: both encrypt your connection, block dangerous sites, work with streaming and include malware protection on higher plans. The differences that matter are elsewhere.

Devices: no contest

Surfshark covers unlimited devices on one subscription. NordVPN stops at 10.

If your household has two computers, four phones, two tablets and a smart TV, Surfshark solves it with a single fee.

Speed and server network

NordVPN has a larger network and generally keeps higher speeds on distant servers. If you download a lot, game online or often connect across the world, the difference shows.

Price

Surfshark is almost always cheaper, especially on 24-month plans. NordVPN costs more, but applies heavy discounts on long plans and adds free months.

In both cases the rolling monthly plan is expensive: the value is in the long plans.

What they include beyond the VPN

  • NordVPN: threat protection, ad and tracker blocking, breach alerts, encrypted storage, NordPass on higher plans.
  • Surfshark One: antivirus, scam protection, breach alerts, private search. One+ also removes your data from data brokers.

Security and privacy: both solid

When it comes to connection security, the two VPNs are on par. Both use modern, fast protocols such as WireGuard (NordVPN calls its version NordLynx), have a kill switch that cuts internet access if the VPN drops, follow a no-logs policy verified by independent auditors and run servers that work without permanent hard drives.

Both also offer advanced features such as routing through two VPN servers, useful if you need an extra layer of privacy.

Streaming and travel

Both work well with the main streaming services and let you access your subscriptions when you are abroad. Thanks to its larger network and higher speeds on distant servers, NordVPN tends to deliver more stable HD video quality. Surfshark is still more than adequate for everyday use.

Ease of use

The apps are simple on both sides: one button to connect, a country picker and a few essential settings. Surfshark has a slightly more immediate interface for beginners; NordVPN offers a server map and more options for those who like to customise.

When the bundle with antivirus is worth it

If you need an antivirus as well as a VPN, look at the complete bundles straight away: Surfshark One includes antivirus, breach alerts and private search; NordVPN's higher plans add threat protection and a password manager. They cost little more than the VPN alone and far less than two separate subscriptions.

Frequently asked questions

  • Does a VPN slow down the internet? There is always a slight drop, but with WireGuard and a nearby server it is hard to notice.
  • Can I use it on my smart TV? Yes, both have apps for the main TV and streaming device platforms.
  • Is using a VPN legal? In most of Europe and the US, yes: it is a privacy tool like any other.
  • Can I try it risk-free? Both offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

The verdict

  • Many devices and a tight budget → Surfshark
  • Top speed and the larger network → NordVPN
  • Antivirus included cheaply → Surfshark One
  • Serious privacy and extra tools → NordVPN

Neither replaces a full antivirus on Windows: if the computer is already infected, it needs cleaning first.