Surfshark VPN Review 2025

Surfshark is a cheap VPN ideal for home users in need of privacy and unblocking. The VPN starts at $1.99 per month, making it one of the most affordable ways to secure your data on public wifi and at home.

This VPN excels in privacy, security, and performance. Since launching in 2018, Surfshark VPN has quickly proven it can compete with NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Proton VPN. It boasts secure VPN apps, a wide feature set, fully audited no-logs policy (Cure53 and Deloitte), and RAM-only servers.

Want better value for money? Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, letting you use the VPN on every device and share your account with friends and family.

In this Surfshark review, I tested the VPN’s speed, privacy tools, and ability to access streaming platforms. The results were impressive. The Surfshark server network extends to 100 countries. It’s lightning-fast thanks to its WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols. It is highly effective as a VPN for Netflix and as a VPN for torrenting. Plus, Surfshark excels in restrictive countries thanks to its obfuscation and dynamic MultiHop VPN feature.

Regarding VPN features, Surfshark packs a kill switch VPN, split tunneling VPN (called “Bypasser”), and static and dedicated IPs. It also offers the Surfshark One bundle with an antivirus, webcam protection, and “Alternative ID” to generate fake emails and phone numbers.

Whether you need a VPN for security, to stream Netflix on vacation, or to prevent online tracking by ISPs and government surveillance agencies, my direct VPN comparison proves that Surfshark remains one of the best VPN services for value, speed, and flexibility. And we’ve got you the best Surfshark VPN deal using our link!

Surfshark review key data

* Average speed over multiple global locations based across multiple speed tests per day.

Surfshark review pos and cons

If you’re looking for a fast, private, and affordable VPN, Surfshark is well worth the cash. Below, I‘ve listed its biggest strengths and drawbacks.

Do I Recommend Surfshark VPN?

Yes, I recommend Surfshark. It is perfect for users who want an exceptional, cheap VPN. It is one of the most reliable VPNs for maintaining privacy, accessing streaming services, and achieving the fastest VPN speeds.

Surfshark’s streaming performance is excellent. I watched multiple Netflix regions, Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and other regional platforms. You also get dedicated apps for Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, and smart TVs. This makes it one of the best VPNs to bypass streaming blocks at work or on vacation.

Despite being cheap, Surfshark is feature-packed. Obfuscation is available using Camouflage Mode. This lets you bypass censorship in countries like China and the UAE. MultiHop encrypts your data twice by routing it through two VPN servers, adding an extra layer of defense against correlation attacks. You also get split tunneling (Bypasser) to choose which apps use the VPN, which is useful when torrenting.

Users seeking a comprehensive security suite deal will appreciate Surfshark One. This bundle adds antivirus, ad blocking, tracker blocking (CleanWeb), and an Incogni subscription to remove yourself from data brokers. You even get a money-back guarantee to test it risk-free.

Surfshark is, by far, my favorite budget VPN of 2025.

Surfshark features

For a VPN that starts at $1.99 per month, Surfshark has many useful features. It’s a decent option for both beginners and power users looking for more customization.

All core VPN features you’d expect from a leading VPN are included. Some features, such as split tunneling, are limited to specific apps. For this reason, I advise checking each app to see if it has what you need (I’ve included this info later in the review to make things easier).

Global server access covers more than 100 countries, and you get a kill switch, multi-hop connections, rotating IPs, and CleanWeb. CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites. I found Surfshark’s advanced features to be pretty mind-blowing for the price point. It’s one of the only VPNs to offer Dynamic MultiHop, rotating IP, obfuscation (Camouflage Mode), post-quantum encryption, and unlimited simultaneous connections.

Below, I cover all of Surfshark’s features. Bear in mind that some additional features, such as Surfshark antivirus, require you to pay for the Surfshark One bundle. All its core and advanced VPN features, however, are available with a standard Surfshark account!

Core VPN features

Surfshark packs all the features you’d expect from a premium VPN. Besides apps for mobile devices and desktop computers, it also supports Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, and ChromeOS. You get extensions for popular browsers such as Chrome, Edge, and Firefox (though these are a proxy service rather than a fully encrypted VPN tunnel).

The unlimited connection allowance means you can use the VPN on every individual device in your home. The option to set up Surfshark on a router makes it easier to connect using game consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. If using a VPN on your router sounds too tricky, you can set up a VPN protected virtual hotspot from any Windows or Mac computer.

Surfshark utilizes trusted VPN protocols with military-grade encryption: AES-256 (for OpenVPN) and ChaCha20 (for WireGuard). A system-level kill switch is available for Windows, Android, Mac, iOS, and Linux. You also get DNS leak protection, ensuring your activities always stay private.

Torrenting is allowed throughout Surfshark’s network, so you don’t need to stick to specific torrenting servers. The split tunneling (bypasser) feature means you can torrent via the VPN while doing other activities using your regular internet connection. This helps make the VPN more versatile..

Other useful features include auto-connect on public wifi (perfect for avoiding hackers and Evil Twin hotspots when working remotely or traveling), unlimited simultaneous connections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Keep scrolling to find out about its advanced and extra features.

Advanced security & privacy features

Surfshark offers an impressive number of advanced VPN features usually only available with VPNs that cost more:

• CleanWeb: An ad, tracker, and malware blocker that helps speed up page load times, block cookies, and remove banners.
• RAM-only servers: Surfshark runs a diskless server network, meaning no data is ever stored on physical drives. All information is wiped with each reboot, significantly enhancing user privacy.
• Camouflage Mode (NoBorders Mode): Surfshark provides obfuscation by default when you use the OpenVPN protocol. The VPN also offers camouflage and no borders mode to help get you connected on networks (and in countries) that often block VPNs. This helps bypass censorship restrictions in countries like China, Russia, and the UAE.
• Dynamic MultiHop: Surfshark lets you select any two server locations to create a custom double-hop VPN connection. You can pick your own entry and exit servers, rather than relying on preset MultiHop routes.
• Bypasser (split tunneling): This lets you exclude specific apps or websites from the VPN tunnel while keeping everything else protected.
• Rotating IP: Changes your IP address periodically to make online tracking harder.
• Alternative ID: Generates a fake identity (name, address, email) that you can use to fill in online forms or join freeview streaming services such as BBC iPlayer.
• Post-quantum encryption: Currently rolling out on WireGuard, this cutting-edge technology is designed to safeguard your data against future threats posed by quantum computing.
• Static IP servers (shared): Provide a consistent IP address each session (but are still shared with other users). Useful for services that might flag suspicious activity if you sign in using different IPs. A dedicated IP address is ideal for accessing poker sites, freelance work sites like Fiverr and Upwork, and some gaming platforms.
• Smart DNS: Works to unblock US streaming services on consoles or smart TVs that don’t support native VPN apps.

Additional features

Surfshark goes beyond typical VPN functionality by offering a full security suite under its Surfshark One and Surfshark One+ plans. These tiers bundle the core VPN with tons of extra security features, providing unbeatable value for users who already need those extras.

• Surfshark Alert: A breach monitoring service that alerts you if your personal data has been exposed.
• Surfshark Search: A private, ad-free search engine that doesn’t log queries.
• Surfshark Antivirus: Real-time antivirus protection and on-demand malware scanning.
• Incogni: A fully automated data removal service that works to remove you from data brokers and people finder sites. Available with Surfshark One+ only.
• Dedicated IP VPN: Available as an optional add-on at checkout. (Cannot be added later, so ensure you get it at checkout if you want one.)
• Surfshark Alternative Number: Provides a secondary, private phone number that forwards to your smartphone number. This allows you to sign up for online services without revealing your actual phone number. Available as an add-on for $3 per month.

Surfshark price and plans

Surfshark offers a range of subscription plans tailored to a diverse range of users. Those looking for a standalone VPN can opt for its Starter plan, which includes all of its VPN features without limits or restrictions.

Consumers looking for even better value for money can opt for its advanced bundles. These are called Surfshark One and Surfshark One+. They add a variety of internet security extras to the mix, which provide even better device protection capabilities.

When purchased long term, there is no doubt that Surfshark is one of the best-value VPNs that money can buy. However, users in need of a VPN for a vacation or for a work trip will notice that the monthly pricing is among the highest:

Important note: The best value deal on Surfshark’s 24-month plan is available exclusively via our link. We have agreed on a special discount for our readers, so be sure to follow our link to get the best deal! (Check the discounts section below for more info.)

Price breakdown

Below, you can see the cost of each Surfshark subscription and what it comes with. Remember that these prices are available by following the link in this review only. Prices may be higher if you don’t click our link to apply the exclusive discount code.

Surfshark Starter

This is the standalone VPN plan. It includes all core VPN features: access to all VPN server locations, unlimited simultaneous connections, access to all VPN apps, AES-256 encryption, the WireGuard protocol for lightning-fast speeds, a kill switch, CleanWeb (ad and malware blocking), and the new Alternative ID feature. All servers allow streaming and work with popular providers like Netflix.

• 1 Month: $15.45
• 1 Year (+3 Months Free): $47.85 total ($3.19 per month)
• 2 Years (+3 Months Free): $55.73 total ($1.99 per month)

Surfshark One

This bundle includes everything in Starter, plus Surfshark Alert (data breach notifications), Surfshark Search (private search), and Surfshark Antivirus (a highly reliable antivirus with real-time protection).

• 1 Month: $17.95
• 1 Year (+3 Months Free): $50.85 total ($3.39 per month)
• 2 Years (+3 Months Free): $69.23 total ($2.49 per month)

Surfshark One+

This is the most advanced Surfshark plan. It includes full access to Surfshark VPN, all features from Surfshark One, plus a subscription to Incogni.

Incogni is an automatic data removal service that sends deletion requests to data brokers and people finder sites. This ensures that your data is removed and stays removed from hundreds of databases that put you at risk of scams, fraud, stalking, and other forms of unsolicited contact.

• 1 Month: $20.65
• 1 Year (+3 Months Free): $91.35 total ($6.09 per month)
• 2 Years (+3 Months Free): $115.83 total ($4.29 per month)

Add-ons

In addition to bundles that include extras like Surfshark Antivirus and Incogni, users can opt to bolt on two additional features. These are specialist features that most users won’t need, which is why they’re offered as optional extras.

Please bear in mind that you cannot bolt these extras on at a later date. You must select these add-ons at checkout.

1. Dedicated IP: A private, consistent IP address available for $3.75 per month. Server locations include Los Angeles, London, Sydney, and Tokyo.
2. Alternative Number: Surfshark can provide you with a forwarding telephone number. This secondary phone number allows you to sign up for online services and enable two-factor authentication without constantly revealing your real number to the websites you use. A forwarding number costs $3 per month.

Surfshark discounts

We have agreed on an exclusive deal for our readers. This reduces the cost of a Surfshark One or Surfshark Starter plan by a whopping 87%, making the standard VPN plan one of the best standalone VPN deals currently available on the market. You even get 3 months extra free! If you want access to one of the fastest and most secure VPNs on the market for just  US$1.99 per month, follow the exclusive link in the review!

In addition to a discount on Surfshark Starter, we have agreed to an 86% discount on Surfshark One, and a 79% discount on Surfshark One+. Our readers can get whichever Surfshark plan they want with a significant discount. And all of these discounted plans come with 3 months extra free for our readers!

These discounts are applied automatically at checkout when you follow our link. You will automatically unlock the best price and get 3 months extra free.

Remember that these are introductory rates. Once your initial subscription ends, Surfshark will auto-renew at a higher rate. For this reason, we recommend setting a reminder to cancel your subscription before the renewal date.

That way, you can come back to this review and resubscribe using our coupon. This will get you the discounted rate for another year! This awesome life hack will ensure that you never have to pay the full premium rate for a Surfshark subscription.

Payment methods & refunds

Surfshark accepts all major payment methods. You can pay for a plan by credit card, debit card, PayPal, Google Pay, or cryptocurrencies.

Cryptocurrency payments are accepted for users who want to pay anonymously. Please note that to maintain full anonymity when paying with Bitcoin (or other accepted cryptocurrencies, such as Ethereum), you will need to sign up using a fake name and a burner email.

All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can easily test the VPN and request a full refund if you decide it isn’t for you. The refund even applies to the 1-month plan, which is not always the case with other VPNs.

Testing the money-back guarantee

To ensure that Surfshark honors its refund policy, I purchased a 1-month subscription and tested the refund process. I used the 1-month plan for 3 weeks, and initiated a refund with around 10 days left to spare.

Next, I contacted support using the 24/7 live chat window, which is the easiest and quickest way to get in touch. When asked for a reason, I said I had decided I didn’t need a VPN after all.

Following that, the agent said that they would initiate my refund request right away. After the conversation, I received an email that confirmed my refund request had been initiated. I then received the money back in my account within five working days.

While the agent did ask me for a reason, I was happy that they did not try to make me jump through any hoops to get a refund. Instead, the agent accepted my reason without question and initiated the refund. This made the experience smooth and pain-free.

Does Surfshark offer value for money?

Yes. If you’re looking for a budget VPN that punches above its weight, I highly recommend Surfshark. The VPN is perfect for home internet users seeking access to a wide feature set at a highly competitive price point.

The option to get Surfshark as part of a bundle with breach alerts, antivirus, search tools, and automated data removal helps to increase value for money.

These bundles might not be for everyone. However, users already in need of a reliable antivirus, or who want to remove their data from dangerous data brokers like Instant Checkmate, Radaris, Whitepages, CocoFinder, CheckPeople, PublicDataUSA, Intelius, PeopleFinders, and Spokeo, will find these bundles extremely good value for money.

Even after renewal, Surfshark is cheaper than competitors like ExpressVPN and Proton VPN. Despite this, we highly recommend cancelling and subscribing again before renewal. This will massively reduce your costs over time! Just bookmark this review and return each year to get the best possible price.

Are there any pricing drawbacks? Just one: the monthly plan is a touch expensive. If you need a VPN for short-term use, such as a quick vacation or a work trip, you may prefer an alternative with a cheaper single-month plan. (Some VPNs specialise in cheap monthly plans to attract holiday makers.)

Speed – Is Surfshark VPN fast?

The best VPNs are designed to keep your internet running quickly. This ensures that the VPN is suitable for data-intensive tasks such as streaming, gaming, and making video calls.

We understand that people want a VPN that doesn’t slow down their internet. A VPN encrypts your traffic and routes it through a secure server. This naturally results in some speed reduction.

Surfshark is one of the fastest VPNs I’ve tested this year. The VPN operates stable Tier-1 servers and lightning-fast WireGuard connections, which are ideal for data-intensive tasks.

Below, I’ve included the results of my speed tests and an explainer that details exactly how I ran my tests on Surfshark (and other VPNs) to ensure that you can always compare VPN speeds apples for apples.

How I tested Surfshark speeds:

• I used a dedicated test machine located in Manchester, UK. It runs a fresh install of Windows and the latest version of Surfshark VPN.
• I ran each speed test three times: in the morning, afternoon, and evening. This allowed me to rule out anomalies, check for consistency, and test for potential server congestion during peak times.
• I tested three server locations: New York, London, and Hong Kong. This provides the information you need to see how the VPN performs over longer distances. It also allowed me to get location-based and global averages.
• All tests were conducted using the Speedtest by Ookla desktop app. This app is known for its stability, providing more accurate results than browser-based speed test apps.

Speed test results

As you can see from the results above, Surfshark consistently maintained high speeds across all test times and locations. Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol was impressive, maintaining fast speeds even when connected to servers geographically distant from my test server’s location in England.

Normal Ping range on all servers

Ping to the London server was just 8 ms, which is fantastic. Ping to the New York server was 78 ms, which is normal. The connection to Hong Kong experienced more latency. However, it still registered a Ping of 198 milliseconds, which is fairly average for the 9,500 km journey. The normal range for Western Europe to East Asia is between 180 and 250 ms (without a VPN), so 198 ms connected to Surfshark is decent.

Snappy connection times and browsing performance

In addition to the server-based tests, I conducted numerous “real-world” tests using a home broadband connection in Canada. The VPN let me stream HD content without buffering, and I could download torrents with no noticeable reduction in download speeds.

I used the VPN to play competitive multiplayer games such as Call of Duty (on Windows) and PUBG (on Android tablet), and had a great low-latency experience in both cases.

Considering that Surfshark is one of the cheapest VPNs available, its performance puts many competing VPN brands to shame.

Device compatibility (VPN Apps)

Surfshark has custom apps and setup guides for all popular devices. It’s suitable for gaining privacy and online security on any smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer.

Unlike most VPNs, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections. You can install it on every device that you own at home, at work, on public wifi, and while traveling. You can share your account with family or friends.

You can install Surfshark on Windows, macOS, Linux (GUI), iOS, Android, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, and smart TVs. For devices that don’t support VPN apps directly (such as gaming consoles or certain smart TVs), you can install Surfshark on a VPN-compatible router. This will extend VPN coverage to every device in your home, without requiring you to connect each one.

If setting up a VPN on a router seems like too much trouble, you can either purchase a pre-configured router from Flashrouters.com or set up a VPN protected hotspot from a Windows or Mac computer.

Supported router brands:

• Asus (including ASUSWRT and Merlin firmware)
• Netgear
• DD-WRT
• Tomato
• OpenWRT

Bear in mind that most router setups require manual configuration using OpenVPN or WireGuard protocols. Setup instructions and the necessary config files are available via Surfshark’s website.

Windows

macOS

Android

iOS

Linux

Surfshark is one of the few market-leading VPNs that offer a full graphical interface (GUI) for Linux. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a visual app over a command-line tool.

Best of all? The GUI VPN app for Linux comes with a wide selection of advanced features, which makes it one of the best Linux VPNs currently on the market:

Browser extensions

Surfshark offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. These extensions provide location spoofing within your browser via an HTTPS proxy. These are useful for quick location spoofing purposes, such as bypassing content restrictions or local network blocks.

One benefit of Surfshark’s extensions is that they allow you to spoof your location on devices that won’t let you install a full VPN. For example, some workplace computers may block app installations but still allow browser extensions.

Surfshark does not currently make a browser extension for Safari. Users on macOS will need to use the full VPN app or install an alternative browser, such as Chrome or Firefox.

Ease of use

To determine whether Surfshark is a suitable option for beginners, I evaluated the user experience (UX) on Windows 10, iOS (iPad), and Android (Samsung S9 tablet). I used the apps for 3 weeks to carefully assess how intuitive and stable each of the Surfshark apps is. I also analyzed cross-platform consistency to check whether it’s easy for subscribers to move from one device to another.

So, are Surfshark’s apps easy to use?

The answer is yes! Surfshark provides one of the most user-friendly VPN experiences available in 2025. All the Surfshark VPN apps are designed using the same clean, minimal aesthetic. It’s easy for users to gain privacy or change their location.

Surfshark’s ease of use is a major advantage for larger families who want to take advantage of Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections policy. You can use the VPN on a wide variety of devices without concerns about an extended learning curve. Installing Surfshark was painless on every device I tested, and the installation wizard handled everything.

As usual, I have included the results of my tests on one desktop version (Windows) and one mobile version (Android) of the app below. This allows you to see exactly how Surfshark performs on both desktop and mobile devices.

Using Surfshark on Windows

I subscribed to the one-month Surfshark One+ plan using a debit card. I found signing up extremely straightforward.

Next, I logged into the member’s area of the website and went ahead with downloading the latest version of the Surfshark VPN app (5.15.2 at the time of the review). The app took 6 seconds to download and less than a minute to install.

The installer handled everything automatically – I didn’t have to configure a thing. When it finished installing, the app launched a step-by-step “Welcome Guide.” This is a nice touch that ensures beginners are shown exactly what is available.

You can make your way through the tutorial by clicking next when prompted. If you feel that you need a refresher course at any stage, you can restart the tutorial by navigating to Settings > Get Help > Welcome guide.

Surfshark’s Windows app is easy on the eyes. However, it can take a little getting used to due to the advanced features you get with Surfshark One and Surfshark One+. There is only one Surfshark app, so you will see all Surfshark’s features in the menu (including the ones you can’t use). Anybody with the standalone VPN plan can ignore anything but the VPN and settings tabs:

Surfshark Windows app layout

I found the Surfshark app to be stylish, and I liked that you can switch between light mode and dark mode in the settings. Personally, I preferred dark mode as it suits me better during late-night streaming sessions:

The main page provides you with everything you need to select the perfect server for your needs. At the top you can select between all locations (Locations), Static IP servers (shared VPN servers that maintain the same IP every time you use them), MultiHop servers (bounce your traffic through two servers), and dedicated IPs (only available if you paid for your dedicated IP address during checkout).

Below these options, you can use the Lightning connection feature to instantly connect to the Fastest location. This is perfect when you need privacy and fast speeds, but don’t specifically require an IP address in a certain country or city.

Server selection

Searching for servers is a simple and fast process. You can either scroll to find the location you require or search. Surfshark clearly labels its virtual servers, making it easier to opt for physical servers for privacy reasons.

Once you find a server that you like, you can highlight the star to make it appear in your favorites list. This allowed me to connect to my preferred servers in seconds without needing to scroll or search.

The servers also clearly display ping, which is a useful addition. I used it to pick a server with lower latency. Some VPNs also display server load to help you avoid congestion, but Surfshark doesn’t offer this (yet). Hardly a deal breaker, but something I would like the VPN to add in the future.

Surfshark settings on Windows

The settings menu is well-designed and keeps everything in a logical place. To control the important VPN settings, simply click the cog symbol and then click on VPN Settings at the top. This will provide you with access to the Protocol options, Auto-connect, CleanWeb, Rotating IPs, Kill Switch, Bypasser (split tunneling), and No Borders mode.

The home screen lists all active features, including protocol, VPN IP, server location, CleanWeb, kill switch status, Bypasser, and more. You can click any of these features to jump directly to them in the settings menu.

If you’ve enabled the rotating IP feature, you can also track how long it is until the next change:

Surfshark Bypasser (split tunneling) on Windows

Next, I tested the split tunneling feature by setting the app to bypass the VPN in my Chrome browser while maintaining the connection in Firefox.

I tested each browser for leaks and was happy to find that Chrome used my regular home IP, while Firefox was securely routed through the VPN. This is great if you want to watch a local TV service on Chrome while also using the VPN for torrenting or some other purpose that requires privacy.

In addition to bypassing or routing specific apps via the VPN, you can also set domains to bypass the VPN tunnel. This gives you an extra layer of control by allowing you to always exclude traffic bound for a specific website from the VPN tunnel.

Did Surfshark for Windows work as expected?

Yes, everything in the Surfshark app worked as expected. I was thoroughly impressed by the user interface and the many features that the VPN offers. I didn’t experience a single crash or freeze while testing the app.

To test the kill switch, I crashed the app in the Task Manager and monitored my IP address every 0.4 seconds using a page refresher extension. I was pleased to discover that the kill switch operates at the system level. Surfshark maintains a background process even after the app crashes (or is closed manually), which enables the system-level kill switch to function.

I have noticed some users expressing concerns about the fact that Surfshark continues to communicate with its servers even after they exit the VPN app. However, this is a necessary component of any VPN that has a system-level kill switch, and it is nothing to worry about.

Using Surfshark on Android

I tested the Surfshark Android app on my Samsung S9 tablet. I installed the app directly from the Google Play Store, which was a nice and easy process.

The installation was fast, and I was able to log in using the cross-platform login code function. (The Android app displayed a short code that I typed into the Windows app to log in automatically without the need for credentials.)

Simple settings menu

Finding the VPN settings is just as easy as on a desktop. All I had to do was click the cog symbol in the bottom right, followed by VPN settings.

Clicking on Advanced will allow you to control a few additional features: Discover on Lan, Override GPS location (which is useful for apps that track both your GPS and IP address), Rotating IP, and “Use small packets,” which changes the MTU size to help get you connected on some networks. If you ever have problems connecting to the VPN or maintaining a connection, then it is worth tinkering with this setting to see if altering the MTU size helps.

Android feature tests

If you want to use the multi-hop feature, then you don’t need to search around in settings to turn it on. Instead, tap on MultiHop on the app’s main screen. This opens the MultiHop menu, where you can choose your preferred route. You can set up any two bounces by clicking on Create connection. This is pretty advanced because most multi-hop VPNs only provide preset routes:

Regarding the Android kill switch, Surfshark offers two options: a custom app-based kill switch and the Always-On VPN functionality built into Android. I would recommend using the latter for sensitive use cases as it guarantees no traffic ever leaves your device outside of the VPN tunnel.

Did Surfshark for Android work as advertised?

Yes, everything worked as expected without errors, crashes, or bugs. The VPN was fast and highly effective for switching my IP address. I detected no leaks and found the VPN reliable for data-intensive activities such as streaming and gaming.

Overall, the Surfshark Android app delivered an outstanding mobile VPN experience. It’s intuitive, packed with features, and one of the best VPN apps for Android if you want strong privacy, reliable speeds, and real customization. Easily one of the best mobile VPNs I’ve tested in 2025.

Server network

Surfshark’s server network is a user favorite thanks to its superb blend of coverage, speed, and security. With 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, Surfshark offers better global coverage than most of its competitors. This makes it ideal for accessing regional IP addresses for streaming, shopping, gaming, gambling, bypassing censorship, SEO research, and other location-sensitive tasks.

All Surfshark servers employ RAM-only infrastructure. No user data is written to a hard disk. This enables Surfshark to protect users in the event of an emergency. For example, if a government raid or cyberattack occurs, Surfshark can instantly disable the affected server.

Surfshark offers IPs in hard-to-reach regions without physically hosting servers in those locations. The great thing about Surfshark is that it clearly labels its virtual servers in the app. This allows users who need jurisdictional transparency to stick to physical locations.

Surfshark permits P2P traffic on all servers and does not offer any streaming-optimized or platform-specific servers. You can stream from any server, which is generally an advantage. The caveat? It may sometimes take a little trial and error to find the best server for your streaming account

Server metrics

Here is an overview of some of the key server metrics:

• Server count: 3,200+ servers worldwide
• Countries covered: 100 countries
• Total locations: 140+ cities
• Servers in 22 different US cities: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, and many others. This makes it a fantastic option for bypassing blackout games and accessing US streaming platforms on vacation.
• RAM-only infrastructure: Yes
• 10 Gbps server ports: Yes, on all servers
• Virtual servers: Clearly labeled in the app
• P2P support: Torrenting is allowed on all servers
• Static IP servers: Available in multiple countries (free to use)
• Dedicated IP: Available as a paid add-on ($3.75/month)

Comparison with competitors

Surfshark’s total server count is smaller than some leading competitors. However, it still has more than enough servers to cater to its user base, and it actually offers access to more individual locations than many of its biggest competitors.

In my real-world tests, Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol and new 10 Gbps ports gave me ideal performance for streaming, gaming, making video calls, and torrenting.

I did not experience congestion or lag, even during peak times. Below, you can see how Surfshark’s network compares to other leading VPN brands:

Unique or rare locations

Surfshark is a superb option for users who want access to IP addresses in rarer or underrepresented regions. Some of its more niche server locations include:

• Macau SAR
• Bhutan
• Brunei
• Bangladesh
• Armenia
• Azerbaijan

Other providers often miss these locations. A wider choice of servers also gives you additional servers for accessing restricted content or improving latency when trying to get online privacy while traveling.

Does Surfshark work in China?

Yes, Surfshark is one of the few premium VPNs that still work in China. The VPN performs reliably behind the Great Firewall, making it a solid choice for accessing Google, Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, and other blocked services while in China.

Surfshark offers two obfuscation features, Camouflage Mode and NoBorders Mode. Camouflage Mode disguises VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic, making it appear like standard encrypted web traffic. NoBorders Mode activates automatically when Surfshark detects a restricted network. It limits your server selection to locations specially configured to work in censorship-heavy regions, such as China or the UAE.

While these features can’t prevent deep packet inspection (DPI), they encrypt your traffic in ways that reduce DPI’s effectiveness. This increases your chances of staying connected, even on restricted work networks or in countries with the tightest censorship.

Bear in mind that ISPs in China often block VPN websites to stop people from signing up. For this reason, I recommend subscribing to Surfshark and installing the app on your device before you travel. This will ensure that your VPN is pre-prepared prior to arriving in mainland China.

For users who require a Chinese IP address, Surfshark offers access to IPs in the Macau SAR. While not a physical server located within mainland China, it utilizes smart routing to access Chinese web services without compromising your digital privacy.

Streaming and unblocking

Surfshark is one of the best VPNs for streaming on a budget. It consistently unblocks region-locked content thanks to its reliable servers and avoids buffering thanks to its high-quality WireGuard implementation. It also provides a free Smart DNS service that you can use to access US services on devices that won’t let you install a VPN.

Admittedly, Surfshark does not offer any streaming-labeled servers. If you prefer a VPN with a server optimized for Netflix or BBC iPlayer, consider alternatives like CyberGhost or PureVPN.

All Surfshark servers are optimized for HD and 4K streaming. I recommend switching from the auto protocol to WireGuard in the settings to ensure you are getting the best speeds for watching HD streaming.

This VPN worked with numerous British services, including iPlayer, ITVX, and Channel 4. It also worked with most US platforms (including Netflix, Hulu, Max, Sling TV, Peacock, and CBS). That said, I was unable to stream free TV on ABC. I tested New York, Chicago, Miami, Seattle, and Buffalo, but they all received an error message.

Streaming service compatibility

My tests revealed that Surfshark works with most major streaming platforms. In fact, it is more reliable and capable than most competitors. That’s quite remarkable, considering the cost of a subscription.

Netflix

Surfshark is an excellent VPN for anybody wanting to unlock Netflix at work or while on vacation. During my tests, Surfshark successfully accessed regionally exclusive Netflix titles on a wide selection of popular catalogs, including those in the US, Canada, the UK, France, Germany, Australia, and Japan.

During my time watching Netflix with Surfshark, the VPN consistently avoided Netflix’s VPN detection systems (no proxy errors). And it allowed for HD playback without a drop in quality or buffering.

Below, I have listed regionally exclusive titles I was able to watch using Surfshark with Netflix:

• Netflix USA: Grey’s Anatomy
• Netflix UK: It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
• Netflix France: Sous les Jupes des Filles
• Netflix Australia: Alone Australia
• Netflix Germany:  Der Schatten
• Netflix Italy: Chiamatemi Francesco

Does Surfshark work with international streaming platforms?

Many internet users nowadays are interested in using a VPN to access TV networks from back home on vacation (or while living abroad due to work, studies, or as an expat). Many VPNs fail to work with international streaming platforms and TV networks, which is why it is important to check each VPN’s reliability. Below, you can see how well Surfshark works with global regional services:

• Germany: I was able to watch Das Erste on ARD Mediathek while connected to Surfshark’s Berlin server. The quality was superb.
• France: Surfshark worked without errors to watch France 2 on France.tv. I tested the Paris server, and it provided a high-quality video stream with no buffering.
• Brazil: I was able to watch Globoplay (free channels) while connected to the São Paulo server. This network often blocks VPNs, so this is a big thumbs up.
• Canada: I could watch live TV and on-demand shows on CBC Gem while connected to the Toronto server.
• Australia: I tried to watch 10Play, but none of the servers worked. If you want to access Aussie TV, it will be better to shop elsewhere.

Does Surfshark allow torrenting?

Yes. Surfshark is a solid option for anybody wanting to torrent privately and securely. All of its servers allow P2P connections, meaning you can use any of its server locations to secure your torrenting activities. The servers also display ping, so you can pick the fastest server for your location (or use the lightning connect feature to get the best server automatically).

Torrenting with Surfshark also ensures that local networks and ISPs cannot detect your file-sharing activities. The VPN has a system-level kill switch to guarantee that you never leak your torrent data to local networks or your ISP.

The only real drawback is that Surfshark does not offer port forwarding. If you are a power user and want the best performance for seeding, then you may prefer an alternative like ProtonVPN, PrivateVPN, or PureVPN.

Is Surfshark VPN Safe?

Surfshark is a trusted VPN brand. It is often praised for its commitment to user privacy and robust VPN security measures. So, how does it actually stack up?

The service combines the best elements of modern VPN infrastructure, including diskless servers and a watertight no-logs policy. The VPN is headquartered in the Netherlands, so it is not required to comply with any mandatory data retention directives and can maintain a legally compliant no-logging policy.

Of course, the Netherlands is a member of the Nine Eyes alliance. And it has been showing signs of surveillance creep. So this is a fluid situation worth monitoring as time passes. For now, however, Holland remains a safer EU jurisdiction for a VPN to be based in.

Surfshark’s entire network uses diskless servers (RAM-only). All data passing through a server location is wiped every time it reboots. And because RAM is volatile, any data passing through is constantly overwritten. Server data is in a constant state of flux, creating a system that enforces privacy by design.

To give users added clarity, Surfshark publishes a quarterly transparency report and maintains a live warrant canary. These keep users informed about the data requests they receive, whether they are DMCA notices, government requests, or other subpoenas issued by attorneys. This warrant canary enables Surfshark to notify subscribers if it ever receives a warrant accompanied by a gag order.

Another positive: since being launched in 2018, Surfshark has commissioned several third-party audits. These included an infrastructure audit by Cure53 and a no-logs audit by Deloitte in 2023. This verified the VPN’s privacy and security credentials, so you don’t have to take any of its claims on faith alone.

Logging policy

I checked Surfshark’s privacy policy line by line to look for any grey areas. I was happy to find that Surfshark implements a strong no-logs policy. It doesn’t store your IP address, browsing history, traffic metadata, or VPN session logs.

The company generates revenue solely through subscriptions. It does not leverage user data to create a revenue stream or share user data with any third parties that might create a risk.

The only slight complaint I have is that Surfshark temporarily logs connection timestamps alongside a user ID. This user ID is not connected to the user’s home IP address, so it isn’t vulnerable to correlation attacks. Additionally, the information is only retained for 15 minutes after a session ends. Surfshark uses this connection data to prevent abuse and improve its service.

Encryption protocols

Surfshark offers a solid range of secure VPN protocols. I analyzed one of its .ovpn (UDP) config files to verify the OpenVPN implementation, and it matched what Surfshark told me (though the config itself doesn’t confirm how Perfect Forward Secrecy is implemented, so I could not verify this).

• OpenVPN (TCP/UDP): Data Channel: Protected using AES-256 cipher. HMAC authentication uses SHA-512. The control channel is authenticated using a 2048-bit static key via TLS-Auth. Perfect Forward Secrecy is achieved using an ECDH-384 key exchange.
• WireGuard: Uses ChaCha20 encryption, offering a strong balance of speed and security.
• IKEv2: Also secured with AES-256. Supported on most platforms.
• Perfect Forward Secrecy: Surfshark provides PFS for OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. This is a security feature that ensures that each VPN session uses a unique encryption key. This prevents previous sessions from becoming vulnerable at a later date.
• Post-Quantum Cryptography: Surfshark has rolled out post-quantum protections to secure its tunnels against future quantum threats.

These protocols are available across all major platforms, and users can choose their preferred option manually in the app.

Surfshark safety controversies

Since its launch in 2018, Surfshark has experienced only a few minor issues, which it has promptly rectified. None of these issues compromised user privacy or sparked controversy.

• India server removal: In 2022, Surfshark removed its physical servers from India. This occurred following the introduction of a new law that requires VPNs to log user data. It now provides Indian IP addresses via virtual servers, thereby avoiding the need for any physical servers within the country. This enables the VPN to provide access to Indian services without compromising user privacy and adhering to its no-logs policy.
• Virtual server labeling bug: In 2024, Surfshark temporarily failed to label some of its virtual servers correctly. The issue was resolved within 48 hours of discovery.
• Kill switch bugs: An earlier version of Surfshark’s app had some kill switch stability issues. Surfshark resolved this issue with an update for its app.

Overall, Surfshark has demonstrated a strong commitment to user privacy. The VPN has undergone independent audits and responds promptly to resolve any concerns or issues with its service.  It has been proactive in improving and updating its service to ensure alignment with its no-logging principles.

Surfshark and NordVPN: What’s the connection?

Surfshark was acquired in 2021 by the parent company of NordVPN. Surfshark is in great company alongside our #1 rated VPN on the market, NordVPN. The fact that NordVPN and Surfshark are sister services suggests a greater potential for improvement, as the two can benefit from strategic research and development collaboration.

That said, Surfshark continues to operate independently and use its own infrastructure.

Customer support

Surfshark excels in customer support, surpassing many services that cost more. It proves that taking good care of your customers doesn’t require expensive subscription fees.

Surfshark gives users multiple customer support options. These include 24/7 live chat, email support, and a wide selection of guides, blogs, and FAQs on its website.

Overall, I found Surfshark’s support experience solid. The agents handled all my basic VPN questions without trouble. And when I asked more technical questions, my case was escalated to a more experienced agent who followed up via email.

Whether you’re new to VPNs with a simple question or a power user with a technical one, Surfshark’s support team either helped me on the spot or followed up by email within a few hours.

Which support channels does Surfshark offer?

Surfshark offers several options if you need help:

• 24/7 live chat: The live chat is responsive and easily accessible. Just type “agent” to skip the chatbot and speak to a real person.
• Email support: For more complex issues or refund requests, email support is available. While slower than live chat, it’s useful if you want a paper trail.
• Ticketing system: You can submit a ticket for help if live chat isn’t convenient.
• Knowledge Base / Help Center: Surfshark hosts an extensive online Help Center with articles, blogs, setup guides, FAQs, and a dedicated section called Surfschool (designed to walk beginners through everything from installation to troubleshooting).
• Language support: I tested the chatbot using non-English questions and found that the bot could handle multiple languages. Human agents can also use Google Translate to help with foreign language requests. This makes Surfshark support accessible to users around the world.

My experience with Surfshark support

To test how responsive and capable Surfshark’s team is, I reached out via the 24/7 live chat. I inquired about streaming Netflix and then followed up with more technical questions, including whether the MultiHop feature can be used in conjunction with the kill switch on Android and whether the agent could provide details on how Surfshark implements the OpenVPN protocol.

I also tested the live chat in French to see if the agents could handle foreign languages: they could.

A chatbot answered my initial message. I ignored it and asked to speak to a human. The bot forwarded me immediately, which was a relief. I like that Surfshark doesn’t make you jump through hoops to speak to a real person, like many competitors.

The average wait time for live chat was under two minutes, which is solid. Unlike other VPNs, agents weren’t juggling too many chats or vanishing mid-conversation.

During my tests, the support agents I spoke with were polite and knowledgeable. Most importantly, they answered my questions accurately and demonstrated a working understanding of the VPN. They shared relevant guides and setup links when needed, which helped me resolve issues faster.

The only question the live chat agent couldn’t answer was about the technical details of Surfshark’s OpenVPN implementation. That query had to be escalated to email, and even then, the agent told me that they could not provide the information for security reasons.

I’ve said it many times before (and I’m sure I’ll say it again), but VPNs really ought to publish these standards on their websites. This would let users verify exactly how OpenVPN is configured: an important detail for anyone serious about privacy and security!

How could Surfshark improve its support?

• Advanced topics: While Surfshark’s support team handles general queries well, the knowledge base is focused mostly on beginner topics. If you’re trying to implement a highly specific configuration or advanced setup, you might need to escalate to email support. Techier guides would be useful.
• More technical depth: Some of the support articles are a bit too basic. The website also lacks important technical details, such as the implementation of OpenVPN. Power users and those with an elevated threat model would benefit from having this additional data.
• Updated video content: A few of its help videos and walkthroughs are starting to feel somewhat outdated. If and when the apps undergo substantial changes, these should be updated.

Surfshark review conclusion – Should you it?

Yes. Surfshark is an outstanding VPN that delivers premium features at a fraction of the cost of its competitors. It’s fast, highly secure, and one of the best VPNs I’ve tested for streaming, torrenting, and getting online privacy at home or on public wifi.

During my three weeks of testing, Surfshark performed reliably across all platforms. The apps are easy to use, so Surfshark is a great choice for beginners.

Advanced users will also find it attractive. Features like customizable MultiHop, rotating IPs, post-quantum encryption, split tunneling, diskless servers, and self-implemented DNS resolvers make this extremely interesting for the cost. It has a fully audited no-logs policy.

Whether you want to stop ISPs and network admins from snooping on your web activity, access region-locked streaming libraries, or torrent privately and without leaking your real IP address to the swarm, then Surfshark is worth testing using the money-back guarantee.

CleanWeb (ad and tracker blocking) and the availability of various Surfshark One bundles (with Surfshark antivirus and Incogni data removal) add value. You can install Surfshark on every device you own, without limits, making it one of the best VPNs for families.

What are the best alternatives to Surfshark?

Surfshark is perfect for users on a budget who want a highly effective VPN for home use. Its value for money and feature set, including its excellent unblocking capabilities for streaming platforms, makes it an outstanding VPN for most home users.

That said, if you specifically need port forwarding or a VPN with more advanced configuration options, then you may want to consider one of these alternatives:

1. NordVPN is perfect for users who want a premium service with faster speeds, better streaming support, and a wider feature set overall.
2. Proton VPN is ideal for privacy-focused users who need port forwarding or advanced security tools.
3. IPVanish is a solid alternative for users who want a VPN with a large US server count.