VPN Comparison Summary

Torn between two premium VPN contenders?

ExpressVPN and Surfshark dominate the market as premium privacy solutions.

Each reliably accesses major streaming libraries including Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.

Performance-wise, both deliver strong connection speeds across networks.

Surfshark edges ahead in both speed consistency and advanced security implementations.

Value seekers should prioritize Surfshark's extended subscription plan.

ExpressVPN counters with unparalleled server distribution across global locations.

For dedicated Netflix streaming reliability, ExpressVPN frequently excels.

Choose ExpressVPN if extensive server locations or Netflix optimization matter most.

Opt for Surfshark when prioritizing peak performance and cost efficiency.

When it comes to pricing, ExpressVPN presents a straightforward and cost-effective model. For a one-month subscription, the cost is $12.95 USD. Those willing to commit for six months can enjoy a modest discount, while opting for an annual plan slashes the price by nearly 50%, offering a more economical option.

On the other hand, Surfshark offers a variety of plans tailored to different needs. The basic Surfshark plan starts at $10.99 per month. However, significant savings are available with their annual and two-year plans, which offer discounts of up to 60% and 80%, respectively. Additionally, Surfshark provides premium options like Surfshark One and Surfshark One+, which include extra features such as antivirus software and a personal data-deletion service.

Both services prioritize customer satisfaction, offering a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try out either service and receive a full refund if you're not satisfied.

For the best value, consider Surfshark's two-year plan, which saves you over 80%.

If ExpressVPN is your choice, the one-year subscription is the most cost-effective, providing a 49% discount and an additional three months free.

Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark provide robust multi-platform support, encompassing major operating systems and even including command line installers for Linux. They also offer a variety of browser extensions, though it's important to remember these only secure your browser traffic, not the data from other applications.

Recently, ExpressVPN introduced a threat protection feature that blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites, much like Surfshark’s CleanWeb. Initially, this ran in the background, but recent updates allow users to customize settings via an advanced protection menu. Additionally, ExpressVPN provides custom firmware for certain routers and is designed to work seamlessly in countries with strict internet censorship, without requiring special configuration.

Surfshark stands out by allowing an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, making it a great choice for families or groups who want to share a single subscription. In contrast, ExpressVPN has been adjusting its connection limits, initially offering higher limits for long-term subscribers before settling on a standard limit of eight devices, up from the previous five.

Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN excel in unblocking geo-restricted streaming services, although it's impossible to test every single platform. There might be instances where one service is accessible via Surfshark but not through ExpressVPN, and the other way around. It's worth noting that ExpressVPN has recently resolved previous issues with BBC iPlayer.

Many countries impose restrictions on certain websites, but China's Great Firewall is particularly advanced, making it difficult for most VPNs to function there. Fortunately, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN can bypass these internet restrictions. For ExpressVPN, no special configuration is needed, whereas Surfshark users may need to enable NoBorders mode (found under Settings > VPN Settings > NoBorders ).

It's crucial to remember that both Surfshark and ExpressVPN websites are blocked in China. Therefore, it's essential to install the apps before entering the country.

Interface and Server Comparison

Surfshark's desktop interfaces impress with a clean, minimalist design.

Yet accessing crucial features like the Kill Switch or NoBorders mode feels unnecessarily cumbersome.

These tools remain buried within nested settings rather than placed prominently.

The main screen shines with its uncluttered layout.

Quick-connect options showcase recently used servers alongside a prominent location selector.

This simplicity benefits newcomers though power users might crave faster access to advanced configurations.

ExpressVPN simplifies user navigation

with an intuitive interface design.

The prominent quick-connect command

dominates the central display

for immediate one-tap activation.

Settings are logically categorized

enabling effortless configuration adjustments

without overwhelming users.

A unique productivity feature allows

bookmarking preferred websites

which automatically appear post-connection

accelerating frequent destination access.

This shortcut functionality

enhances workflow efficiency

while maintaining robust security protocols.

Surfshark's Android application offers a bonus capability:

seamlessly syncing your virtual location with the device's actual GPS coordinates.

While the mobile interfaces largely mirror their desktop counterparts,

a few desktop-exclusive features remain absent.

Notably, functionalities such as NoBorders mode are unavailable on phones,

though the core VPN experience stays consistent across platforms.

ExpressVPN Keys sets mobile users apart with its unique offering.

Android and iOS subscribers benefit from this integrated password manager.

This feature, however, does not extend to the desktop applications.

Windows and macOS users currently lack access to ExpressVPN Keys.

In the past, there was a significant difference in network size between these two providers. However, Surfshark has quickly caught up and now boasts over 3,200 servers across 100 countries. On the other hand, ExpressVPN has also expanded its reach, and now spans 105 countries, more than any other major VPN service.

When it comes to speed, both services are capable of handling high-definition streaming. Overall, Surfshark outperforms with an average speed of approximately 324 Mbps, compared to ExpressVPN's 193 Mbps. It's important to note that these tests were conducted on a 1 Gbps connection, so your actual speeds may vary.

Surfshark and ExpressVPN both have unique server locations, with Surfshark covering some areas that ExpressVPN does not, such as Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates.

ExpressVPN boasts an extensive network, including servers in Guam, the Cayman Islands, and Kenya, which are not available with Surfshark.

When it comes to the type of servers, whether virtual or physical, the distinction is often unnoticeable for the average user. However, it's worth noting that the location of these servers can affect the legal jurisdiction over your data.

Fortunately, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN adhere to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your data remains private.

Both services also provide transparency by offering detailed lists of their virtual servers.

VPN Feature Comparison

Both VPN providers enable OpenVPN connectivity universally.

Surfshark additionally implements WireGuard protocol for enhanced speed.

ExpressVPN counters with IKEv2 for Apple devices and its proprietary Lightway protocol.

Lightway maintains security integrity during network transitions.

Military-grade 256-bit AES encryption forms the foundation for both services.

ExpressVPN strengthens its handshake with 4096-bit RSA keys.

Surfshark employs 2048-bit RSA keys—shorter but still highly secure.

Automatic kill switches instantly halt traffic if VPN connections falter.

This prevents any unprotected data exposure during disruptions.

Distinct methodologies enhance user protection:

ExpressVPN utilizes cipher block chaining (CBC) encryption.

CBC chains data packets, requiring sequential decryption from the session's start.

Isolated packet interception becomes useless without full session access.

Surfshark offers NoBorders mode to circumvent censorship barriers.

While its exact mechanism is undisclosed, it likely disguises VPN traffic patterns.

This technique helps bypass VPN detection and regional restrictions.

Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark prioritize user privacy, as evidenced by their location in the British Virgin Islands, a region free from mandatory data retention laws and distant from the 14 Eyes Alliance.

Neither service retains any logs that could be used to identify users. To further ensure transparency, both providers have undergone independent audits to verify their no-logs policies.

For those seeking an added layer of anonymity, both VPNs allow registration with a temporary email address and payment via Bitcoin. Additionally, Surfshark extends its cryptocurrency options to include a few other popular digital currencies.

Both VPN giants excel in user assistance through multiple accessible channels.

Reaching their teams proves remarkably efficient day or night

with email and live chat delivering near-instant replies.

For self-help seekers

extensive knowledge bases and YouTube tutorials offer instant solutions.

Testing revealed exceptionally prompt email responses

surpassing industry averages significantly.

Though some replies utilized templates

agents provided thorough guidance for specific setups like Firestick

demonstrating genuine expertise.

Crucially

both services proactively invite further contact

proving commitment to resolving any subscriber issue completely.

This dedication to ongoing support truly sets them apart

going the extra mile for every user. Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are top-tier options in the world of virtual private networks. ExpressVPN is renowned for its impressive speeds and expansive network, providing access to a myriad of region-locked services. It even functions seamlessly in China, making it an excellent choice for those who need to torrent, stream, or simply browse with privacy.

However, when comparing the two, Surfshark emerges as slightly superior. One of its key advantages is affordability, especially if you commit to a six-month or longer subscription. Additionally, Surfshark offers faster speeds and the unique ability to secure an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. This makes it an ideal zero-log VPN that can handle a wide range of tasks.

In terms of bypassing censorship, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are highly effective. They both excel at navigating strict restrictions, such as those in China. The main difference is that Surfshark may require you to activate the NoBorders mode, while ExpressVPN typically works without additional configuration.

When it comes to server locations, both providers offer a significant number. Surfshark has 100 server locations, and ExpressVPN has around 105. Both cover major countries like the US and UK, so the choice between them isn't about location coverage but rather specific needs for certain IP addresses.

Measuring a VPN's latency is complex due to various factors, including time of day, distance from the server, and hardware. Nonetheless, Surfshark and ExpressVPN are among the fastest we've tested. Surfshark supports WireGuard, which is notably quicker than OpenVPN, while ExpressVPN has developed its own Lightway protocol, designed for speed and efficiency.

For streaming, both are reliable, but Surfshark stands out with Netflix. In recent tests, it worked with over 30 Netflix catalogs, including India, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the USA. This means users can access their usual content while traveling, without being restricted to local libraries.

There are other reasons to favor Surfshark. It provides more security features and allows an unlimited number of device connections. Furthermore, Surfshark's network spans 100 countries, offering extensive access to a variety of streaming platforms.

What is a Netflix VPN and How to Get One

A Netflix VPN serves as a specialized tool enabling users to bypass geographical restrictions imposed by the streaming service. Its primary function is to mask the user's actual location and assign them a virtual IP address from another country, thereby unlocking different regional libraries of movies and shows. Essentially, a Netflix VPN provides global access to otherwise unavailable Netflix content based on physical location.

Why Choose SafeShell as Your Netflix VPN?

If people want to access region-restricted content by Netflix VPN, they may want to consider the SafeShell VPN . This service offers several key advantages that make it a top choice for streaming enthusiasts. 1. High-speed servers: SafeShell VPN provides specifically optimized servers for seamless Netflix streaming, ensuring you can watch your favorite shows and movies without interruptions or buffering. 2. Multiple device connectivity: You can connect up to five devices simultaneously, making it easy to enjoy your content on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Android TV, and Apple Vision Pro. 3. Exclusive App Mode: This unique feature allows you to unlock and enjoy content from multiple regions at the same time, giving you the freedom to explore a diverse range of streaming services and libraries. 4. Lightning-fast speeds: With no bandwidth limitations, SafeShell VPN ensures that you experience unprecedented internet performance, allowing you to stream, download, and browse at ultra-fast speeds. 5. Top-level security: Your online privacy is protected with advanced encryption and the proprietary "ShellGuard" protocol, ensuring that your data remains secure. 6. Flexible free trial plan: SafeShell VPN offers a flexible free trial, allowing users to explore its robust features without any commitment. If you're facing issues with Netflix vpn not working , SafeShell VPN is a reliable and efficient solution.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watch Netflix with SafeShell VPN

Unlocking global Netflix content has never been easier with SafeShell Netflix VPN . Here's how to get started with this powerful streaming solution:

• Visit SafeShell VPN's official website and select a subscription plan that matches your needs
• Download the SafeShell application for your specific device (Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android)
• Launch the application and log into your account credentials
• For optimal Netflix streaming performance, select the APP mode in the SafeShell interface
• Browse through the server list and connect to a location that offers your desired Netflix library (such as US, UK, or Canada)
• Once connected, open your Netflix application or website and sign in to your account
• Start enjoying unrestricted access to region-specific Netflix content from anywhere in the world