NordVPN vs Surfshark
The two most popular VPNs side by side. On one side the established all-rounder, on the other the sharply priced challenger with unlimited devices.
We may earn a small commission through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
NordVPN
The complete package. Fast, secure, and good at everything.
Surfshark
Unlimited devices at a price that is hard to argue with.
Prices last checked on
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 4.7 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Price | From $3.09/mo | From $2.49/mo |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Best for | 10 devices at once | Unlimited devices |
| Category | Top picks | Top picks |
| Provider | Nord Security | Surfshark B.V. |
| Visit NordVPN | Visit Surfshark |
Our verdict
NordVPN wins on speed and the more mature server network. More of the connection speed survives and streaming is just a touch more reliable. Surfshark wins on price and on unlimited devices, which lets a whole household share one subscription. If you want the best performance, pick NordVPN.
If you want the best deal, pick Surfshark. The gap in quality is smaller than the gap in price.
“We ran NordVPN for four weeks and it lived up to its reputation. Speeds were high, streaming worked everywhere, and the no-logs policy has been independently verified multiple times. On a two-year plan, the best all-round choice right now.”Editorial team, on NordVPN
“Unlimited devices for a few dollars a month is a combination nobody else matches. Speeds hold up well and streaming works fine. The best value in this lineup.”Editorial team, on Surfshark
Frequently asked questions
Is NordVPN better than Surfshark?
On raw performance, yes. NordVPN keeps more of your connection speed, streaming is a touch more reliable, and it scores 4.7 out of 5 against 4.6 for Surfshark. Surfshark wins on everything to do with money. That means a lower price and unlimited devices instead of ten. If the whole household needs covering, Surfshark is the better buy.
Which is cheaper, NordVPN or Surfshark?
Surfshark, by a clear margin on the long plan: $2.49 a month against $3.09 for NordVPN, so $29.88 versus $37.08 for a year of service (US dollars, prices last checked August 2026). Those are two-year commitment rates. Pay month to month and the order flips in NordVPN's favor: $12.99 against $15.45 for Surfshark.
Can I share one Surfshark subscription with my whole family?
Yes. Surfshark puts no cap on simultaneous connections, so one subscription covers every phone, laptop, tablet and TV in the house. NordVPN stops at ten devices at once, which is plenty for most people but not for a large household with a lot of hardware. That difference, not speed, is what usually decides this duel.
Do both come with a money-back guarantee?
Both offer 30 days on every plan, so you can test either one properly before committing. That matters here, because the cheap headline prices are two-year commitments. Run your usual streaming services and a speed test in the first week. If NordVPN's extra speed is not noticeable on your connection, Surfshark saves you money for the rest of the term.