Best Surfshark Alternatives: Top VPNs Compared for Privacy, Speed & Value in 2025

When it comes to online privacy I know how important it is to have a reliable VPN. Surfshark often gets a lot of attention for its features and affordability but it’s not the only option out there. Sometimes you might want something different, maybe faster speeds, a different pricing plan, or more advanced security tools.

I’ve explored several VPN services that can easily stand toe-to-toe with Surfshark. Whether you’re looking for better streaming support or just want to try something new there are plenty of strong alternatives worth considering. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these VPNs great choices for anyone serious about protecting their online life.

What to Look for in Surfshark Alternatives

• Privacy features

I prioritize strict no-logs policies, RAM-only servers, and leak protection, since strong privacy measures directly impact my online anonymity.

• Speed and performance

I check for consistently high speeds using services with WireGuard or proprietary protocols, because stable streaming and downloads matter for daily use.

• Global server network

I look for VPNs with 3,000+ servers and diverse locations—examples include providers in North America, Europe, and Asia—to maximize connection options and bypass geo-restrictions.

• Device compatibility

I value VPNs that support Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, routers, and browser extensions, so all my devices stay protected without extra configuration steps.

• Streaming and P2P support

I pick alternatives that unblock Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, or support torrenting, since broader content access and safe downloads increase my VPN’s utility.

• Security encryption

I choose services with AES-256 or ChaCha20 encryption, advanced authentication, and kill switch functions, as robust encryption safeguards my data against interception.

• Customer support

I rely on 24/7 live chat, detailed guides, and responsive ticketing, since readily available help resolves technical issues quickly.

• Pricing and plans

I compare alternatives offering competitive long-term discounts, free trials, or 30-day money-back guarantees, so I can test performance risk-free while saving money.

Top Surfshark Alternatives Compared

I compare leading Surfshark alternatives across privacy, performance, server coverage, and value. These VPNs offer unique advantages for different user priorities.

NordVPN

I find NordVPN consistently strong on privacy and speed. It uses RAM-only servers, audited no-logs policies, and AES-256 encryption. NordVPN supports WireGuard (NordLynx) protocol for fast, reliable connections. Its network has over 6,000 servers in 61 countries. Streaming works with Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. NordVPN apps cover Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices. Support team responds 24/7 through live chat and email.

ExpressVPN

I see ExpressVPN prioritize speed and security. It operates over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, supporting MediaStreamer for streaming devices. ExpressVPN features TrustedServer tech, disabling server hard drives and erasing logs on every reboot. The Lightway protocol optimizes performance and battery use. Apps are intuitive on all major devices. ExpressVPN unblocks Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video. Customer support responds promptly by live chat.

CyberGhost

I value CyberGhost for its streaming-optimized servers and high server count. It offers 11,700+ servers in 100 countries. CyberGhost maintains a no-logs stance, using 256-bit AES encryption and kill switch. It labels servers for streaming or P2P, making it easy to select the right option. Apps support Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and routers. A generous 45-day money-back guarantee applies to long-term plans.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

I respect PIA for advanced customization and transparency. It runs 35,000+ servers in 91 countries, the largest network among alternatives. PIA supports either AES-128 or AES-256 encryption and allows port forwarding plus split tunneling. Its no-logs policy gets regular independent audits. PIA works on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and routers. Users can stream US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime. Live chat and email support are available.

VPN Service	Server Count	Countries	Special Features	Streaming Support	Money-Back Guarantee
NordVPN	6,000+	61	RAM-only servers, NordLynx	Netflix, Hulu	30 days
ExpressVPN	3,000+	105	TrustedServer, Lightway	Netflix, Disney+	30 days
CyberGhost	11,700+	100	Streaming labels, 45-day refund	Netflix, iPlayer	45 days
Private Internet Access	35,000+	91	Port forwarding, Split tunneling	Netflix, iPlayer	30 days

Key Features to Consider

I always look at a VPN’s core attributes before deciding on a Surfshark alternative. Key features like security, speed, pricing, and compatibility determine real-world value for me.

Security and Privacy

I check for strong encryption standards, such as AES-256, along with support for secure protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. Strict no-logs policies, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch feature shield my online activity from monitoring or tracking. Some VPNs, including NordVPN and ExpressVPN, offer extras like MultiHop routing and threat detection for added privacy based on official privacy audits and provider documentation.

Speed and Performance

I prioritize VPNs that consistently deliver fast, reliable speeds across global servers. Services like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost invest in high-performance infrastructure and support protocols like Lightway or WireGuard, which boost speed for streaming, gaming, or large file downloads. I measure real-world performance using independent test results, such as those from AV-TEST and Ookla.

Pricing and Plans

I compare monthly and long-term pricing side by side using tables from official provider pages. Leading VPNs often offer significant discounts for multi-year plans and 30-day money-back guarantees. I factor in inclusion of features like unlimited device support or bundled antivirus tools to evaluate overall value, not just price.

Device Compatibility

I only select VPNs with dedicated apps for major operating systems like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Top alternatives support browser extensions, smart TVs, and routers. Services such as CyberGhost and PIA allow simultaneous use on 7–10 devices per account, making these VPNs suitable for families or power users with multiple devices.

How to Choose the Right Surfshark Alternatives for You

When I choose the best Surfshark alternative, I compare privacy standards first. Providers like NordVPN and ExpressVPN publish independent audit results, offer strict no-logs policies, and include DNS leak protection. I check transparency reports and track record examples for reference.

I evaluate server coverage for fast access and reliable connections. ExpressVPN covers 94 countries, NordVPN and CyberGhost offer extensive networks in North America, Europe, and APAC. I look for diverse server options—streaming-optimized servers, P2P support, or dedicated IP addresses.

I test speed using multiple server locations and compare results with tools such as Ookla’s Speedtest. Fast VPNs like ExpressVPN consistently deliver download speeds above 500 Mbps in verified tests, while CyberGhost regularly maintains low latency on international connections.

I check device compatibility and simultaneous connection limits. Surfshark offers unlimited connections, while NordVPN and CyberGhost support up to 7 devices. I verify app usability and feature parity across OS including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.

I review encryption and protocol choices, preferring services that support WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec. I ensure AES-256 encryption is standard, and I look for extra tools like MultiHop or obfuscation in advanced VPNs.

I compare prices and look for free trials or money-back guarantees. Providers like CyberGhost and PIA offer 45-day refunds on longer plans, while most premium VPNs average $3–$7 per month on annual subscriptions. I factor in seasonal discounts and unique perks.

I scan user reviews and independent ratings for customer support quality. Live chat, email, and knowledge base responsiveness matter when I troubleshoot or set up new connections.

Using a checklist for features—privacy policies, server variety, streaming and torrent support, encryption standards, device coverage, price, and customer service—I map my requirements to the leading alternatives. This structured approach ensures I select the right VPN for my privacy needs and daily use scenarios.

Conclusion

Choosing the right VPN goes beyond just comparing features on paper. I always recommend taking advantage of free trials or money-back guarantees to test each service for yourself. Your online habits, devices, and privacy needs are unique, so it pays to see how a VPN performs in real-world use.

By weighing your priorities and staying informed, you can confidently pick a Surfshark alternative that fits your lifestyle and keeps your data secure. Don’t hesitate to switch things up if your needs change, your online safety is always worth it.