Deciding between ExpressVPN and Surfshark can be tough. Both are leading VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) with impressive features. This article will help you make an informed choice by comparing their strengths and weaknesses in key areas.
The table below outlines the main features of both VPNs:
| ExpressVPN | Surfshark | |
| Website | ExpressVPN.com | Surfshark.com |
| Location | Panama | Netherlands |
| Servers | 3,000+ | 3200+ |
| Countries | 105 | 100 |
| Logs | No logs (audited) | No logs (audited) |
| Support | 24/7 live chat; Email; Knowledge Base | 24/7 live chat; Email; Knowledge Base |
| Apps for | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, browsers, routers, and more | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, browsers, and more |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| Price | $6.67 (with coupon below) | $2.19 (with coupon below) |
| Best Deal | 49% Off Coupon > | 86% Off Coupon > |
In this comparison, I covered essential aspects such as speed, security, user experience, and more. This guide aims to clarify which VPN will best meet your needs in 2024.
These are the categories I used for comparison:
- Key features
Speed tests
Security measures
Logging policies
Jurisdiction and privacy
User experience
Server network
Streaming and torrenting
Customer support
Pricing
Payment and refunds
- Conclusion and final recommendation
Key features
When it comes to key features, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN pack a punch.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| RAM-only servers | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Logs | No logs (audited) | No logs (audited) |
| Multiple VPN protocols | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Private DNS | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Split tunneling | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Kill switch | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Obfuscation | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Browser extensions | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Built-in ad blocking | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Surfshark offers a plethora of features, including Dynamic MultiHop for enhanced security and unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an attractive choice for users with multiple devices. Additionally, Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware, providing a safer browsing experience.
ExpressVPN, while slightly more expensive, offers several unique features that justify its price. The proprietary Lightway protocol ensures fast and secure connections, while the TrustedServer technology guarantees that all data is wiped with every reboot, enhancing security. Each subscription plan also includes a password manager called ExpressVPN Keys, which is built directly into the apps.
Both VPN services provide split tunneling, allowing you to choose specific apps for VPN access, adding an extra layer of flexibility to their services. Now, let’s examine the standout features of each.
ExpressVPN's Lightway Protocol
ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol offers faster connection speeds and lower resource consumption compared to traditional VPN protocols. This means you can enjoy a seamless browsing experience without compromising on performance, even when your VPN connection drops.
Despite its focus on speed, Lightway does not skimp on security. It uses strong encryption and other security measures to protect your data, ensuring that your online activities remain private and secure. This makes Lightway a compelling choice for users who want the best of both worlds — speed and security.
Surfshark's CleanWeb and MultiHop
Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature is made for users tired of intrusive ads and malware, as covered in our Surfshark review. CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and phishing attempts, creating a safer and more enjoyable browsing experience. This feature is not just about convenience; it also enhances security by preventing malicious entities from tracking your online activities.
The Dynamic MultiHop feature is another standout offering from Surfshark. It allows you to route your VPN traffic through two different VPN servers, significantly enhancing security and privacy. What’s unique about this feature is that it lets you choose your own server pairs and save them for later use.
This double VPN setup is particularly useful for users concerned about their online anonymity and data safety, helping Surfshark grab the win in this category.
Speed tests
Speed is a critical factor when choosing a VPN, and both ExpressVPN and Surfshark perform admirably in this regard.
| Server location | ExpressVPN download speed (Mbps) | Surfshark VPN download speed (Mbps) |
| Seattle | 718 | 753 |
| Los Angeles | 445 | 653 |
| New York | 612 | 638 |
| London, UK | 552 | 556 |
In my tests, with a base speed of 900 Mbps, ExpressVPN achieved download speeds of 718 Mbps in Seattle and 552 Mbps in London. These results indicate a speed drop of approximately 20% in Seattle and around 38% in London, which is impressive for a VPN.
Surfshark had similar speeds to ExpressVPN in most locations tested, but clearly outperformed it on the Los Angeles server with download speeds of 653 Mbps compared to 445 Mbps as achieved by ExpressVPN.
The upload speeds for Surfshark were also competitive, and slightly better than those of ExpressVPN, on average. These results show that Surfshark offers a consistent performance across different locations, making it a reliable choice for users who prioritize speed.
Security
Security is paramount when selecting a VPN, and both ExpressVPN and Surfshark excel in this area. ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology ensures that its servers run entirely on RAM, meaning all data is wiped with each reboot, significantly enhancing security. Surfshark also employs a similar RAM-only server setup, providing an added layer of data protection.
Both VPN services offer advanced security features such as split tunneling, multi-factor authentication, and ad blockers. However, Surfshark VPN goes a step further with features like CleanWeb and Dynamic MultiHop, which provide additional privacy and security options.
Let's explore the specific security measures of each VPN in more detail.
Advanced Protection vs. CleanWeb
ExpressVPN's Advanced Protection and Surfshark's CleanWeb both provide essential security features but with somewhat different focuses. ExpressVPN's Advanced Protection includes Threat Manager, which blocks apps and websites from communicating with malicious third parties, an ad blocker to eliminate intrusive ads, and parental controls to ensure safe browsing for children.
On the other hand, Surfshark's CleanWeb aims to enhance the user experience by blocking ads, pop-ups, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts, creating a safer and more private browsing environment. While ExpressVPN emphasizes comprehensive threat protection and family safety, Surfshark focuses on user privacy and a cleaner, ad-free internet experience.
| Feature | ExpressVPN Advanced Protection | Surfshark CleanWeb |
| Malware sites blocker | ✔️ (Advanced Protection) | ✔️ |
| Ad blocker | ✔️ (Threat Manager) | ✔️ |
| Tracker blocker | ✔️ (Advanced Protection) | ✔️ |
| Parental controls | ✔️ (Threat Manager) | ❌ |
| Pop-up blocker | ❌ | ✔️ (CleanWeb 2) |
| Data breach alert | ❌ | ✔️ (CleanWeb 2) |
| Requires active VPN connection | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Included with all plans | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Platforms | Advanced Protection (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Aircove router) Threat Manager (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Aircove router, Apple TV) | CleanWeb (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux) CleanWeb 2 (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) |
Encryption standards
Encryption standards are a critical component of any VPN’s security features. Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN utilize AES 256-bit encryption, one of the strongest encryption standards available. However, ExpressVPN takes it up a notch with AES-256-GCM encryption, which offers enhanced security compared to the standard AES-256 used by Surfshark.
ExpressVPN also uses a lengthier encryption key (4,096 bits) compared to Surfshark’s 2,048 bits, providing an additional layer of security.
VPN protocols
| VPN protocols supported | |
| ExpressVPN | OpenVPN UDP, OpenVPN TCP, IPSec/IKEv2, IPSec/L2TP, and Lightway |
| Surfshark | OpenVPN UDP, OpenVPN TCP, IPSec/IKEv2, and WireGuard |
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer a variety of VPN protocols to enhance security, speed, and reliability. ExpressVPN utilizes the Lightway protocol, which is designed for speed and efficiency, providing faster connection speeds and lower resource consumption compared to traditional protocols. Additionally, ExpressVPN supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPsec, ensuring robust security and flexibility for different use cases.
Surfshark, on the other hand, employs the WireGuard protocol, known for its high performance and strong security, alongside IKEv2 and OpenVPN protocols.
These options allow you to choose the best balance of speed and security based on your specific needs, making both VPNs versatile and reliable choices for protecting online activities.
Kill switch and DNS leak protection
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer robust kill switch features to maintain user privacy if the VPN connection drops. ExpressVPN’s kill switch automatically disables internet access if the VPN connection fails. Surfshark VPN offers two modes for its kill switch: soft mode and strict mode, giving you more control over your connection.
DNS leak protection is another crucial feature offered by both VPNs. My tests have shown that neither ExpressVPN nor Surfshark has any detected DNS leaks, ensuring that your online activities remain private. This level of protection is essential for users who prioritize their privacy and security.
Both VPNs excel at safeguarding user data with advanced security features.
Logging policy
A strict no-logs policy is a non-negotiable feature for any reliable VPN. Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN adhere to strict no-logs policies, ensuring that they do not store any user activity data. This is crucial for maintaining user privacy and trust.
ExpressVPN has taken additional steps to validate its no-logs policy through independent security audits by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and KPMG, adding an extra layer of credibility.
Surfshark has also undergone audits, with its no-logs statement verified by Deloitte, ensuring compliance with its privacy policy.
Jurisdiction and privacy
The jurisdiction under which a VPN operates can significantly impact its privacy policies. ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, a jurisdiction known for its strong privacy laws and lack of mandatory data retention laws. This makes it an excellent choice for users concerned about their privacy.
Surfshark operates out of the Netherlands, which also has privacy-friendly laws but is part of the 14 Eyes alliance, a group of countries sharing intelligence. While this might raise concerns about user privacy, Surfshark maintains a strict no-logs policy, which effectively negates the potential risks associated with its jurisdiction.
Both VPNs also offer obfuscation on all servers (Surfshark calls it Camouflage mode) ensuring that VPN traffic is disguised as regular internet traffic.
User experience
User experience is a crucial factor when choosing a VPN, as it affects how easily users can navigate and utilize the service. Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer user-friendly apps with intuitive interfaces.
Both VPNs support split tunneling, allowing you to select which apps access the internet directly and which use the VPN. Surfshark also allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, benefiting users with multiple devices.
App Design and Usability
The design and usability of a VPN app can significantly impact the user experience. ExpressVPN’s app features a clean and minimal design, without clutter. However, one small drawback is that the size of the ExpressVPN desktop app interface cannot be adjusted.
Surfshark’s interface, while not as sleek as ExpressVPN’s, is still user-friendly and intuitive. Both apps prioritize usability, but ExpressVPN offers a more polished interface, while Surfshark provides practical features that enhance the overall user experience.
Device Compatibility
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are compatible with a range of operating systems and mobile devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and smart TVs. This makes them versatile choices for users with multiple devices.
| ExpressVPN | Surfshark VPN | |
| Apps | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Browsers | Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Other devices supported | Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, gaming consoles (via Mediastreamer), routers (app or manual setup), and more | Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, gaming consoles (via Smart DNS), routers (manual setup), and more |
| Connections | 8 | Unlimited |
Surfshark stands out by allowing unlimited device connections under a single subscription, providing flexibility for users with multiple devices. ExpressVPN allows eight simultaneous connections, which is still generous compared to many other VPNs. Additionally, both VPNs can be configured directly onto a router, allowing protection for all devices connected to the network.
Server network
ExpressVPN boasts over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, offering extensive global coverage. Surfshark, with more than 3,200 servers in over 100 countries, also provides a large and diverse server network.
Both VPNs have diskless (RAM-only) servers, preventing the storage of personally identifiable information. This enhances security and privacy, making both VPNs reliable choices for users concerned about data protection.
Surfshark's Nexus network is a unique feature that connects users to a network of servers rather than a single server, enhancing security and improving connection stability. This innovative approach allows for seamless VPN server switching, IP address rotation, and dynamic multi-hop connections.
Specialized Servers
Specialized servers can provide additional benefits for specific use cases. Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer obfuscation on all servers, disguising VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. This is particularly useful for users in countries with strict internet censorship.
Surfshark also offers dedicated and static IP addresses, enhancing privacy and performance for P2P users. Additionally, Surfshark provides 12 preconfigured MultiHop server combinations, allowing users to route their internet connection through multiple servers for added security. These features make Surfshark a versatile choice for users with specific needs.
Streaming and torrenting
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark are recognized for their reliable streaming and torrenting performance. They can unblock popular streaming platforms and support P2P file-sharing across their server networks.
Streaming Performance
Both services perform exceptionally well in unblocking popular streaming services. They can access platforms like Netflix, Max, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. ExpressVPN’s unique MediaStreamer feature further enhances access to U.S. and U.K. streaming services on devices that don't support VPN apps.
Surfshark, known for its ability to unblock a wider variety of Netflix regional libraries, supports access to 15 different Netflix libraries. Additionally, Surfshark works seamlessly with BBC iPlayer, providing a versatile streaming experience.
Both VPNs unblocked Netflix on the first attempt, demonstrating their strong capabilities in this area. The two services also feature in our list of the best VPNs for Netflix.
Torrenting and P2P Support
When it comes to torrenting and P2P support, both ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer robust capabilities. ExpressVPN supports P2P file-sharing across all its servers, ensuring consistent functionality for torrenting.
Surfshark also supports torrenting across all its servers and additionally offers P2P-optimized servers in specific locations for enhanced performance.
Overall, both VPNs provide strong support for torrenting activities, but Surfshark’s dedicated P2P servers give it a slight edge in terms of optimized performance.
Customer Support
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer reliable customer support which can be reached by email or 24/7 live chat. This round-the-clock availability is crucial for resolving issues promptly and maintaining a smooth user experience.
In addition to live chat and email, Surfshark provides a chatbot for live chat support. Both VPNs support multiple languages, making their services accessible to a global audience.
Both VPNs provide additional resources such as FAQs and tutorials, with ExpressVPN offering a comprehensive FAQ section and Surfshark providing a help center filled with guides and troubleshooting articles. These resources enhance the overall support experience, ensuring users can find solutions to their issues quickly.
Response Times and Effectiveness
The response times and effectiveness of customer support are critical for user satisfaction. ExpressVPN’s support team is known for providing timely responses, often within minutes during peak hours. Surfshark’s support team also typically responds within minutes through live chat, showcasing its commitment to prompt service.
Email support response times can vary, with Surfshark taking a few hours, while ExpressVPN aims to reply within less than an hour.
Overall, both ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer comprehensive customer support options to assist users effectively.
Pricing
Pricing is a significant factor for many users when choosing a VPN. Surfshark is known for its affordability, with prices starting as low as $2.19 per month when billed every two years. This makes Surfshark one of the most cost-effective VPNs available, especially for long-term plans.
| Subscription length | ExpressVPN | Surfshark Starter |
| 1 month | $12.95 | $15.45 |
| 6 months | $9.99/mo | N/A |
| 1 year | $6.67/mo | $2.79/mo |
| 2 years | N/A | $2.19/mo (+3 months free) |
| Coupon | 49% Off Coupon | 86% Off Coupon |
Similar to NordVPN, Surfshark offers three main pricing tiers, each offering additional features:
- Surfshark Starter: This is the basic plan, offering core VPN features for users seeking reliable and secure online connections.
- Surfshark One: Builds on the Starter plan by adding extra security tools like antivirus, alert, and search features for enhanced online protection.
- Surfshark One+: Includes all One plan benefits plus Incogni, a data removal tool, for users prioritizing complete online privacy management.
In contrast, ExpressVPN offers a single pricing tier, with subscription plans of three different lengths: 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year. Its cheapest plan comes at $6.67 per month (1-year plan + 3 months free), making it approximately triple the cost of Surfshark’s best offer.
While ExpressVPN’s higher price might be justified by its robust set of features and performance, Surfshark’s lower cost and wide range of features make it a better value for many users.
See the latest prices and deals here: https://surfshark.com/pricing/coupons/
Payment and refunds
Both VPN providers offer a variety of payment options to accommodate different user preferences. ExpressVPN supports all major credit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin, and several other payment services, such as Sofort, Ali Pay, and UnionPay.
Surfshark also accepts payments via credit card, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, Sofort, and cryptocurrencies, providing users with sufficient flexibility.
Money-back guarantees and free trials
Both VPN service providers also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to request a refund if you're not satisfied with the service. However, the refund process can be more complex if the VPN is purchased through a virtual store like the Apple App Store, as third-party vendors handle refunds. To avoid delays, I recommend you subscribe directly through the official websites of the VPNs.
Additionally, both VPNs offer 7-day free trials accessible through the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, giving potential users a chance to experience the features without any financial commitment.
Which VPN Should You Choose?
The following breakdown shows the performance of ExpressVPN and Surfshark in each category:
| Category | Winner |
| Key features | Surfshark |
| Speed tests | Surfshark |
| Security measures | Tie |
| Logging policies | Tie |
| Jurisdiction and privacy | Tie |
| User experience | Surfshark |
| Server network | Surfshark |
| Streaming and torrenting | Surfshark |
| Customer support | Tie |
| Pricing | Surfshark |
| Payment and refunds | Tie |
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark rank among the top VPNs on the market. Choosing between them ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Surfshark emerges as the overall winner in this comparison, especially for users seeking affordability, unlimited simultaneous connections, and advanced security features like CleanWeb and MultiHop. Its user-friendly interface and wide range of features make it a strong contender for most users.
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However, if you prioritize speed, lower latency for gaming, and a long-standing reputation, ExpressVPN remains a solid choice. Its Lightway protocol, TrustedServer technology, and robust customer support make it a dependable option.
This ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark comparison guide was last updated on August 17, 2024.
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