Surfshark vs ExpressVPN in 2024: VPN Speed, Features, Security & More Compared
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Surfshark vs ExpressVPN in 2024: VPN Speed, Features, Security & More Compared
ExpressVPN and Surfshark are two of the most reliable VPNs today. Though you can’t go wrong with either, the best choice depends on what you want to accomplish online. Read our comprehensive Surfshark vs ExpressVPN comparison to make an informed decision.
Facts checked by Jasna Mishevska (Lead Fact-Checking Editor)
Last Updated: 2024-10-01T20:12:34+00:00
All our content is written fully by humans; we do not publish AI writing. Learn more here.
Key Takeaways: ExpressVPN vs Surfshark
The main difference between Surfshark and ExpressVPN is that Surfshark is more affordable and offers a better suite of advanced features, while ExpressVPN is better for VPN beginners.
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN unblock popular streaming services on the first attempt and stream videos without interruption.
Surfshark has more affordable long-term plans and unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for users looking to save money.
Facts & Expert Analysis About SurfsharkVPN and ExpressVPN:
Providers are owned by big-name VPN companies: Kape Technologies owns ExpressVPN, as well as CyberGhost and Private Internet Access. Surfshark is part of the Nord Security suite, which also includes NordVPN and Strong VPN.
Company jurisdiction: ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, a country with no mandatory data retention laws. Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which is part of the Nine Eyes alliance.
RAM-only servers: Both VPNs use RAM-only servers, which means they do not save any user data, further solidifying their no-logs policies.
Surfshark and ExpressVPN are among the best VPNs (virtual private networks) on the market. They also deliver fast connection speeds for streaming and gaming. Though neither is a bad choice, one may be better suited for your needs than the other. Our Surfshark vs ExpressVPN comparison is designed to help you make that decision.
We tested both VPN services rigorously and assessed their capabilities across categories like speed, streaming, privacy, security, unique features and server network size. Keep reading to learn the strengths and weaknesses of these VPNs and decide which one would serve you better.
09/05/2022
Updated this comparison to reflect the most recent VPN speed test results.
07/16/2023 Facts checked
This ExpressVPN vs Surfshark comparison was rewritten after our experts tested the services, showing how the VPNs are similar and different from each other.
11/30/2023
Updated the article to reflect ExpressVPN’s recent increase of 5 simultaneous connections to 8, as well as its expansion of server presence to 105 countries, previously 94.
10/01/2024
We rewrote this ExpressVPN vs Surfshark comparison guide to reflect the providers’ most recent performances.
Cloudwards Editor’s Choice: Surfshark Is the Winner
Samson Kiarie is a Cloudwards writer specializing in VPNs and online security.
Surfshark’s performance has improved significantly in the last few years, and it now matches ExpressVPN in streaming, privacy, security and server location categories. Surfshark is also usually faster than ExpressVPN (though it has higher latency).
It also has a better suite of unique and advanced tools, like dynamic MultiHop and an IP rotator. It even comes with a full anti-malware app, Surfshark Antivirus. It is also more affordable than ExpressVPN on long-term plans, costing as little as $1.99 per month on the Starter two-year plan for first-time users.
Surfshark and ExpressVPN are reliable virtual private network services that offer fast connection speeds and excellent unblocking ability for interruption-free streaming performance. However, Surfshark edges out ExpressVPN because of its suite of advanced tools. Surfshark is also more affordable on extended plans and allows unlimited simultaneous connections.
Though we think Surfshark is the better VPN service, you might consider ExpressVPN if you want an easy-to-use VPN; it builds its features into every ExpressVPN server, and you can connect to a server with a single click. ExpressVPN is also a top choice if you need a VPN for torrenting, since it delivered a faster torrent download performance during our testing.
Achieve Online Privacy and Security Even as a VPN Novice
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Who Is Surfshark For?
Users in large households: Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, so it’s ideal for users in large households or those who want to split the bill.
Users looking for a cheap long-term VPN: Surfshark has some of the cheapest longer-term plans on the market.
Users looking for specialty servers: Surfshark offers dedicated and static IP address servers (ExpressVPN does not offer static IP addresses). It also provides dynamic MultiHop servers, which route traffic through two different VPN servers for extra protection.
Surfshark is better for users who want unlimited simultaneous connections, cheaper long-term plans, and extra security features beyond a VPN.
Who Is ExpressVPN For?
VPN beginners: ExpressVPN has a well-organized and intuitive user interface that makes it the best VPN for beginners.
Torrenting fans: Compared to Surfshark, ExpressVPN delivers a faster torrent download performance and is ideal for securely downloading large torrent files.
Router users: ExpressVPN has a dedicated router app, which makes it significantly easier to set up on routers.
ExpressVPN is better for users who are new to VPNs, interested in torrenting, and who might want to get the VPN on their router easily.
Our Detailed Comparison Methodology
There are two major steps in our detailed comparison methodology. First, our experts test both VPNs in all categories, including security, privacy, speed, streaming, torrenting and server locations. After these rigorous tests, the experts compile their findings in our comprehensive VPN reviews, like our Surfshark review and ExpressVPN review.
Using our experts’ findings, we compare the VPNs side by side to pinpoint their strengths and weaknesses. Lastly, we compile a detailed comparison guide with two categories — similarities and differences — to help you make an informed decision.
Surfshark VPN and ExpressVPN share many similarities, including no-logs policies, excellent streaming performance, and features like split tunneling, kill switch options, ad-blocking and more.
Privacy and No-Logs Policies
Though both ExpressVPN and Surfshark claim to adhere to a no-logs policy, you shouldn’t take any provider’s word for it. Our method is always to look for loopholes, check each provider’s history of dealing with law enforcement and see whether a reputable third-party firm has audited and authenticated the no-logs claim.
Does ExpressVPN Keep Logs?
ExpressVPN doesn’t collect, store or share user logs, data, connection timestamps, IP addresses or browsing history. Plus, its RAM-only servers mean that it wipes any stored data every time the servers reboot. KPMG — a reputable security audit firm — audited the no-logs claim in 2023 and verified that ExpressVPN does precisely as it says in its privacy policy.
Since 2018, ExpressVPN has also undergone regular independent audits to validate the security of its protocols, apps, browser extensions and TrustedServer technology. We combed through these audit reports and found that they certify that the features work as defined.
In addition, ExpressVPN authorizes independent security audits whenever a system flaw is patched up. For example, in April 2024, it authorized a system audit after fixing the split tunneling flaw on Windows and confirmed that it had stopped leaking DNS requests.
Does Surfshark Keep Logs?
No, Surfshark doesn’t track, collect or store user logs, data transfers, browsing history or online activity. It also uses RAM-only servers. Deloitte audited Surfshark’s systems and features in 2023 and confirmed that it is appropriately configured to adhere to the no-logs policy.
However, Surfshark differs slightly from ExpressVPN in that it doesn’t undergo annual audits, though it has been examined more than once. Beyond the Deloitte audit, Cure53 put the VPN’s server infrastructure under the microscope in 2021 and found minor flaws that have since been patched.
RAM-Only Servers
Both providers have upgraded their server infrastructure to RAM-only or diskless servers. These servers wipe logs with every reboot, so no user data is stored. Even if hackers or authorities infiltrate a server searching for users’ personal information, they’ll come up empty. ExpressVPN’s RAM-only servers are branded as TrustedServer technology.
Streaming
We examine a VPN’s streaming capabilities through two lenses: whether it can unblock streaming libraries and whether it’s able to stream videos without interruption. ExpressVPN and Surfshark came to a draw on both fronts, and both are among the best VPNs for streaming.
Streaming App:
The two providers unblocked Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney Plus, Max, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video and ESPN on the first attempt. If our test results are anything to go by, both VPNs will unblock any streaming service you throw at them. We could stream videos in full HD and 4K without any lag or buffering.
Split Tunneling
ExpressVPN and Surfshark both have split tunneling and inverse split tunneling features. Split tunneling lets you select apps or websites to bypass the encrypted tunnel when the VPN is active. Inverse split tunneling does the opposite, letting you choose apps that use the VPN tunnel while others access the internet directly.
ExpressVPN allows app-based split tunneling on Windows, macOS (only 10 and below) and Android VPN apps. You can also configure split tunneling on your router, but it works differently. First, you have to create device groups. Then, you configure one of the groups to connect to your actual location and let the other connect via a VPN server.
The Surfshark VPN split tunneling feature, called “bypasser,” supports app- and URL-based split tunneling,but it’s only available on the Windows and Android apps.
Kill Switch
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer a kill switch feature, which prevents data leaks by blocking your device’s internet connection if the VPN connection drops. ExpressVPN’s kill switch, “network lock,” is available on Windows, Mac, Linux and routers.
The network lock feature is unavailable on mobile apps, but the network protection feature acts as the kill switch on iOS devices. What sets the network lock apart is that it lets you access nearby network devices even after the kill switch is triggered, like local servers and printers.
The Surfshark kill switch is available on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS VPN apps. Surfshark’s kill switch has better compatibility, but it doesn’t let you access local network devices while it’s activated.
Ad-Blocking Functionality
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer ad blockers, but their functionalities and availability differ slightly. ExpressVPN offers an ad blocker for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS VPN apps. An additional tool called “threat manager” blocks trackers and malware on all major operating systems and Apple TV.
Surfshark offers a feature called CleanWeb that blocks ads and malicious websites on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS and Fire TV. In addition, there’s CleanWeb 2.0,an advanced ad blocker availableon Chrome, Firefox and Edge browsers. It combines an ad blocker, data breach alert, cookie pop-up blocker and malware alert features.
Money-Back Guarantee
Another similarity is that ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer the industry-standard 30-day money-back guarantee. If you are unsatisfied with either VPN, you can request a refund within 30 days of purchase.
We’ve requested refunds from both providers in the past and have always received them without hassle. You can use the refund period as an extended free trial to test the VPN’s features before making a long-term purchase.
Server Locations
With server locations, we focus on the number of locations available and how they’re distributed. A VPN with an extensive distribution of servers gives you many options to access content worldwide. Such a VPN service is also less likely to experience server overload, guaranteeing a fast online experience.
ExpressVPN and Surfshark have some of the best server distribution on the market. Surfshark has servers in 100 countries, while ExpressVPN has servers in 105 countries. Both VPNs cover nearly all regions, including some that are perennially overlooked, like Africa and the Middle East.
Obfuscation
Obfuscation is an indispensable feature for bypassing network restrictions and censorship. It scrambles the metadata from your VPN traffic so it blends in with regular web traffic. This lets you use VPNs in countries where they’re banned and access online services that ordinarily block VPN users.
ExpressVPN and Surfshark both offer obfuscation. ExpressVPN obfuscates your traffic regardless of the protocol you select. In contrast, Surfshark obfuscation is activated only when you use OpenVPN. However, Surfshark’s obfuscation currently has a better record with China’s Great Firewall.
Device Compatibility
ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer native support for desktop, mobile devices, web browsers, routers and smart TVs, though there are small differences within each category:
Device:
Desktop apps
Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
Windows, Mac, Linux
Mobile apps
Android, iOS, Amazon Fire tablet
Android, iOS
Web browser extensions
Chrome, Firefox, Vivaldi, Chromium, Brave, Edge
Chrome, Firefox, Edge
Smart TV
Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon Fire Stick, Samsung TV, LG Smart TV, Android TV, Roku
Apple TV, Fire TV, Android TV, Chromecast, Samsung TV, Nvidia Shield, Roku
Gaming consoles
Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Steam Deck, Xbox supported through VPN routers
Asus, Synology, InvizBox 2, Vilfo, manual configuration on compatible routers
Smart DNS
Yes, on devices that don’t support VPN apps
Offers MediaStreamer DNS for devices that don’t support VPN apps
Customer Support
If you run into hurdles when using ExpressVPN or Surfshark, help is available via a live chat, email or the knowledgebase. The knowledgebases for each VPN provider are helpful self-service channels with well-organized interfaces and search functions that make it easy to find relevant guides.
In addition, both live chat options are easily accessible, and agents on each channel respond to each query in less than a minute. We found the agents on both platforms friendly and well versed in issues that most VPN users encounter.
The only minor difference is that on Surfshark live chat you interact with a bot first, which always answers questions satisfactorily. We had to type in “human agent” to escalate our issue to a real person. ExpressVPN, on the other hand, doesn’t have a chatbot, so you’re routed directly to a human agent.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: Differences
In this section, we’ll highlight the differences between ExpressVPN and Surfshark. The VPNs diverge in categories such as speed, pricing, VPN protocols and number of allowed simultaneous connections.
VPN Speeds
Surfshark and ExpressVPN are part of our automated VPN speed comparison, so we based this comparison on their most recent performances.
Download Speed(Higher is better)Upload Speed(Higher is better)Latency(Lower is better)
We evaluated the two providers across three speed categories: downloads, uploads and latency.The latest results show that Surfshark is frequently one of the fastest VPNs, whereas ExpressVPN is still on top but less often in the lead.
Download Speeds
We test both VPNs on an internet connection capped at 100 Mbps for a fair comparison. The faster the download speed, the better. Overall, Surfshark is typically faster, reaching a worldwide average of 95% of our unprotected download speeds. ExpressVPN only managed 75% of our unprotected speeds when we averaged all regions.
When connected to a nearby server (within 1,000 miles or so), ExpressVPN’s download speeds improve significantly, recording 90%. However, Surfshark still edges it out with a faster speed of 95%, proving that it’s not only good for your browsing speed but also more consistent across long distances.
Upload Speeds
For the upload speed tests, we cap our internet connection at 10 Mbps. The faster the upload speed, the better for two-way chatting and torrenting. The providers yield imperceptible differences here: Both reach 90% of our unprotected upload speeds, whether you connect to a server nearby or several countries away.
Latency
With latency or a ping rate, lower scores are better, representing a shorter time to transmit information between servers — vital in a VPN for gaming. Overall, ExpressVPN offers a lower ping rate than Surfshark. Surfshark’s latency is disappointingly high, even on nearby servers, so it may be a poor choice for gamers.
VPN Protocols
ExpressVPN and Surfshark have improved their VPN protocol offerings by eliminating less secure options, putting them both on our list of picks for the most secure VPN. The table below summarizes their protocol offerings across devices.
Encryption:
WireGuard (ChaCha20)
OpenVPN (AES 256-bit)
Lightway (AES-256 GCM, ChaCha20)
Routers
IKEv2 (IPsec)
* *
Automatic protocol selection
*Manual setup required
You can set either provider to select a preferable protocol automatically, or change the protocol manually. All protocols on both VPNs passed our DNS, WebRTC and IP leak tests, meaning hackers, surveillance agencies and monitoring systems can’t breach the encrypted tunnel.
OpenVPN is a fine go-to protocol with a good balance between security and connection speed. Since VPN providers have used this protocol for years now, most of its security flaws have been identified and patched. IKEv2 works best on mobile devices because of its excellent ability to reconnect after network fluctuations.
Despite being relatively new, WireGuard has already surpassed OpenVPN’s performance on the speed front. It’s not as tried and tested as the OpenVPN protocol, but it’s secure for most (if not all) online use cases. The Lightway protocol is lightweight and fast, but it’s only available on ExpressVPN.
Double VPN Servers
Double VPN, or multi-hop,is a helpful tool for users who need an extra layer of protection, such as journalists and rights activists in restrictive countries. It routes traffic through two servers, making it twice as difficult for authorities to trace online activity back to you. Surfshark offers a MultiHop feature; ExpressVPN doesn’t.
Surfshark offers 12 pre-selected MultiHop server combinations, which let you secure your connection with a single click of a button.
🇩🇪 Germany ↕️ 🇸🇬 Singapore
🇳🇱 Netherlands ↕️ 🇺🇸 U.S.
🇸🇬 Singapore ↕️ 🇳🇱 Netherlands
🇸🇬 Singapore ↕️ 🇭🇰 Hong Kong
🇬🇧 U.K. ↕️ 🇫🇷 France
🇬🇧 U.K. ↕️ 🇩🇪 Germany
🇺🇸 U.S. ↕️ 🇳🇱 Netherlands
🇺🇸 U.S. ↕️ 🇵🇹 Portugal
🇦🇺 Australia ↕️ 🇺🇸 U.S.
🇺🇸 U.S. ↕️ 🇨🇦 Canada
🇫🇷 France ↕️ 🇸🇪 Sweden
🇩🇪 Germany ↕️ 🇬🇧 U.K.
If you don’t like any of those, you can create custom MultiHop server combinations. The feature lets you dictate which nodes your traffic is routed through so you can get the best speeds for your location.
Dedicated IP Addresses
Surfshark offers static and dedicated IP address servers. It has 36 static IP address servers spread across six countries: Japan, Germany, Singapore, the Netherlands, the U.S. and the U.K. In addition, Surfshark offers dedicated IP addresses in 11 countries.
Torrenting
ExpressVPN and Surfshark both support peer-to-peer (P2P) traffic, but ExpressVPN allows it on all servers, whereas Surfshark’s P2P server network is limited to 58 locations (including all U.S. locations, and doesn’t let you pick a preferred server.
Neither provider supports port forwarding, a network configuration technique that enables VPNs to bypass firewalls for faster torrenting.
For this review, we used both VPNs to download a 264MB torrent file on a 30 Mbps internet connection. ExpressVPN needed 4 minutes, 6 seconds to download the file, whereas Surfshark took 5 minutes, 50 seconds. The results suggest that ExpressVPN may be a better option for torrenting than Surfshark.
Pricing
We consider Surfshark to be one of the best budget VPN options available, while ExpressVPN tends to be more expensive.
Unlimited GB bandwidth,
Unlimited devices,
Secure VPN,
Ad blocker,
Cookie pop-up blocker.
Plans renew: $59.76 for one year, $59.76 per year for the two-year plan.
Everything in Starter, plus
Antivirus protection,
Identity protection,
Email Breach and Credit Card Alerts,
Online Alias
Plans renew: $79 for one year & $79 per year for the two-year plan.
As you can see, ExpressVPN is a few dollars cheaper than Surfshark on the monthly plan. However, if you need a long-term solution, Surfshark has better deals. (If you’d rather not pay at all, check out our rundown of the best free VPN services instead.)
However, Surfshark’s pricing is a bit more complicated because it offers three different plan options (Starter, One, One+) with three different pricing intervals (monthly, one year and two year). Starter is the basic VPN plan, whereas the One and One+ plans include more security suite features, like antivirus protection, identity protection, credit alerts, email breach alerts and more.
Plan Renewal Price
Note that both VPNs offer intro deals for new users. When your first subscription runs out, Surfshark’s pricing reverts to its more expensive monthly pricing, no matter the length of time. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN still gives some discounts for longer-term plan renewal.
Unique Tools and Security Features
Beyond the commonplace VPN features, Surfshark provides unique tools to improve your online experience, including:
IP rotator: Available on Windows, Mac, iOS and and Android, this tool changes your IP address every five to 10 minutes without altering your virtual location or disconnecting the VPN. This extra protection makes it even more difficult to trace your online activity back to you.
NoBorders: This tool springs to action when Surfshark detects network restrictions, like geoblocking, school firewalls or government censorship. It provides a list of servers that can circumvent the restriction and automatically connects you to the best one.
Alternative ID: This assigns you a unique online identity and email address that you can use to access online services and surf the web. Your alternative ID can forward emails to your real inbox.
Simultaneous Connections
Surfshark supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for large households, organizations or groups. ExpressVPN allows you to connect up to eight devices on all its plans.
ExpressVPN and Surfshark in China
Unfortunately, ExpressVPN does not work reliably in China, according to our recent research. However, Surfshark works there more reliably. Before you travel to China, make sure to download multiple VPNs so that you have backup in case one stops working. Read our best VPN for China guide for more information.
Community Feedback: ExpressVPN vs Surfshark Reviews on Reddit & Social Media
Many Reddit and social media users are happy with ExpressVPN’s ease of use, fast connection speeds and excellent customer support. We came across several user reviews commending the provider for its excellent device compatibility. However, many users lament its pricing, which they claim is steep compared to similar services.
Most Surfshark users argue that the VPN service’s biggest appeal is the budget-friendly pricing. We also found user reviews claiming that Surfshark is suitable for streaming because it can access most streaming platforms. Some users claim the provider can sometimes lag, though it happens infrequently.
The Verdict: Why We Think Surfshark Wins Overall
Surfshark beats out ExpressVPN in a head-to-head matchup. That’s because Surfshark now matches ExpressVPN’s performance on the streaming, server location, unique features, privacy and security fronts. It also pulls ahead overall with faster speeds, unlimited connections and cheaper plans on extended pricing.
Join millions of satisfied users — get Surfshark now at (for Black Friday) 64% (plus 4 months free) off and test it risk-free for 30 days.
However, ExpressVPN is still an excellent VPN, and it could be a better choice for users who are new to VPNs, who want an easy VPN router app, and who want stronger torrenting options.
Have you used Surfshark or ExpressVPN before? Which do you prefer? Does our comparison paint a clear picture of the providers in each category? Did you learn anything new in this Surfshark vs ExpressVPN review? We’d like to hear about it in the comments. As always, thanks for reading.
Surfshark VPN vs ExpressVPN Compared to Other Providers
Surfshark and ExpressVPN are among the best VPN providers on the market, but if you want to consider alternatives, NordVPN and CyberGhost are good places to start.
NordVPN vs Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
NordVPN has leaped ahead of both Surfshark and ExpressVPN and is currently the best VPN on the market. It’s also faster than Surfshark, and its near-distance connections have lower latency. It also provides unique and advanced tools like onion over VPN servers, Meshnet, file sharing and vulnerability detection. Read our full NordVPN review to learn more.
CyberGhost is one of the best alternatives for Surfshark and ExpressVPN. Though CyberGhost doesn’t outperform these two providers in key categories, consider it if you need VPN automation tools. With CyberGhost’s smart rules, you can configure it to connect automatically when you access public WiFi or open a designated app. Learn more in our CyberGhost review.
Yes, Surfshark is as good as ExpressVPN on key fronts like privacy, security, server locations and device compatibility. It outshines ExpressVPN in the categories of connection speed, pricing and simultaneous connections.
Yes, NordVPN is better than Surfshark because it offers faster and more consistent connection speeds and a fleet of specialty servers.
Surfshark and NordVPN are better than ExpressVPN based on our latest tests, for most use cases.
Yes, Surfshark is a trustworthy VPN thanks to its audit-guaranteed security and no-logs policy. It has never been in the news for meddling with user data.
A well-versed writer on SaaS and tech topics, Samson Kiarie’s passion is keeping abreast of the industry’s cutting-edge practices. In his writing, he focuses on the practical aspects of software systems to create straightforward and honest reviews that inform and engage the reader. When he’s not writing about tech, Samson spends time playing soccer with his son, Jayden, in the backyard. Also, being an ardent soccer fanatic, he watches English Premier League games on Saturday and Sunday afternoons to feed his addiction to football.
Originally a software engineer, Aleksander decided to leave the office lifestyle behind to live as a digital nomad. He now spends his time writing about technology and tourism, which allows him the freedom to call many different places home. When he’s not writing or editing, he likes to read fantasy/sci-fi, listen to podcasts about history and politics and travel.
Jasna earned her BA in translation and interpreting back in 2011. After
working in the IT industry for many years as a content analyst, she took a
course in web development in 2017 to learn the basics of front-end engineering. Her love for technology and writing opened a new
chapter in her career, leading her to join Cloudwards as a fact-checker.
When she's not fact-checking, you'll find her running or cycling on the
quay of Vardar, listening to Joy Division, watching Star Wars, or eating
chocolate and sweets in the local bakeries.
Download Speed(Higher is better)Upload Speed(Higher is better)Latency(Lower is better)