Is NordVPN better than Surfshark in 2026?

Yes, NordVPN is objectively superior in most metrics: 9.6% faster speeds, triple-audited no-logs policy, more servers (7,000+ in 118 countries vs 3,200+ in 100), better streaming unblocking, and a more comprehensive security toolkit including Threat Protection Pro and Meshnet. However, Surfshark costs 41% less and offers unlimited devices. NordVPN wins on performance and features; Surfshark wins on value and device limits.

Is Surfshark as good as NordVPN for streaming?

Surfshark streams well but NordVPN is more reliable. NordVPN consistently unblocks 15+ Netflix libraries plus BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and HBO Max. Surfshark unblocks 10+ Netflix libraries and the same major platforms but has occasional issues with Hulu and certain international Netflix libraries (Japan, India). NordVPN's faster speeds also ensure buffer-free 4K streaming.

Which is faster, NordVPN or Surfshark?

NordVPN is faster. On a 1 Gbps connection, NordVPN delivers 910 Mbps (5% loss) via NordLynx versus Surfshark's 830 Mbps (11% loss) via WireGuard — a 9.6% speed advantage. On cross-continent connections, NordVPN maintains 520 Mbps compared to Surfshark's 410 Mbps.

Does Surfshark work on unlimited devices?

Yes. Surfshark is one of the few VPNs that offers unlimited simultaneous connections — one subscription covers every device in your home or office. NordVPN limits connections to 10 devices. This single feature often makes Surfshark the better choice for families, shared households, and users with many devices.

Which VPN is better for torrenting?

NordVPN is better for torrenting. It offers P2P-optimized servers in 60+ countries, SOCKS5 proxy support, and split tunneling. The faster NordLynx speeds mean downloads complete faster. Surfshark allows P2P on all servers but lacks dedicated optimization, so performance on congested servers can be inconsistent.

Are NordVPN and Surfshark owned by the same company?

Their parent companies merged in 2022 under Cyberspace BV (also known as the Nord Security group), but NordVPN and Surfshark operate as entirely independent services with separate infrastructure, server networks, development teams, and privacy audits. Data is not shared between them, and each maintains its own no-logs policy verified by separate audits.

Which is more private, NordVPN or Surfshark?

NordVPN has a slight privacy edge. It operates under Panama's jurisdiction (outside 5/9/14 Eyes alliances) and has been audited three times by Deloitte. Surfshark is headquartered in the Netherlands, which belongs to the Nine Eyes intelligence alliance, and has been audited once by Deloitte. Both have confirmed no-logs policies, RAM-only servers, and strong encryption.

Does NordVPN work in China?

Yes. NordVPN's obfuscated servers disguise VPN traffic as standard HTTPS traffic, making it one of the most reliable VPNs for bypassing the Great Firewall of China. Surfshark's NoBorders Mode also works but has faced more intermittent blocking in recent years. For travel to China, NordVPN is the safer choice.

What is the Surfshark One bundle?

Surfshark One is an upgraded plan ($2.69/month) that bundles the VPN with a lightweight antivirus, webcam protection, Dark Web alerts, and a cross-platform CleanWeb ad blocker. It's one of the best-value cybersecurity bundles available — essentially getting a full antivirus suite for just $0.70/month more than the base VPN.

Can I try both VPNs before committing?

Yes. Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer 30-day money-back guarantees. The best strategy is to subscribe to both, use them side-by-side for two to three weeks under your real internet usage patterns, then cancel the one you don't prefer. Both companies reliably honor refunds — just contact support within the 30-day window.

Which VPN has more servers?

NordVPN has more than double the server count: 7,000+ servers across 118 countries compared to Surfshark's 3,200+ servers across 100 countries. A larger server network typically means less congestion during peak hours and more geographic options for finding a fast server near your location.

Which VPN is best for beginners?

Both offer beginner-friendly apps, but Surfshark's minimal interface is slightly simpler to navigate for absolute beginners. NordVPN's interactive map and searchable server list are also intuitive, but the additional features (Meshnet, Threat Protection Pro settings, Dark Web Monitor) can feel overwhelming to new users.

NordVPN vs Surfshark 2026: Which VPN Should You Choose?

NordVPN vs Surfshark 2026: Which VPN Should You Choose? | Nest Digital Studio