Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
Surfshark8.5
Independent no-logs assessment published, operating from the Netherlands.
Privacy & audits
30% weight
Mullvad9.5
No email needed to sign up, anonymous payment options and published audits.
Surfshark8.5
WireGuard, kill switch, multi-hop and rotating IP options.
Security features
20% weight
Mullvad9.0
WireGuard, multi-hop, DAITA traffic obfuscation and open-source apps.
Surfshark9.0
Low long-term pricing combined with unlimited devices.
Value for money
20% weight
Mullvad7.5
Flat, honest pricing, though no discount for paying upfront.
Surfshark8.0
Apps on all major platforms, though the extra features add some clutter.
Apps & ease of use
15% weight
Mullvad7.5
Clean but basic apps; fewer convenience features than mainstream rivals.
Surfshark9.5
No limit on simultaneous connections on paid plans.
Devices & flexibility
15% weight
Mullvad6.0
Five simultaneous devices is lower than most competitors.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | No |
| Money-back window | 30 days | Not published |
| Simultaneous devices | Unlimited | 5 |
| Independent audit published | Yes | Yes |
| Company jurisdiction | Netherlands | Sweden |
| Main platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
Verdict
Which should you pick?
Choose Surfshark if…
You want something best for families and anyone with lots of devices.
- + Unlimited simultaneous devices
- + Strong value on longer plans
- + Independent no-logs assessment
Choose Mullvad if…
You want something best for people who want minimal personal data handed over.
- + Account-number sign-up with no email
- + Same price every month
- + Open-source apps
Checked 1 Nov 2026.
Questions
Surfshark vs Mullvad: quick answers
Is Surfshark better than Mullvad?
Surfshark leads Mullvad by 0.5 points overall (8.7 vs 8.2). Surfshark scores higher on value for money, apps & ease of use, devices & flexibility. Mullvad scores higher on privacy & audits, security features.
Who should choose Mullvad over Surfshark?
Mullvad is best for people who want minimal personal data handed over. Surfshark is best for families and anyone with lots of devices.
How were Surfshark and Mullvad scored?
Both were scored on the same 5 weighted criteria for VPN services, using public information such as published plans and terms. We do not lab-test products.