Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
Surfshark8.5
Independent no-logs assessment published, operating from the Netherlands.
Privacy & audits
30% weight
NordVPN9.0
Several independent no-logs assessments have been published over the years.
Surfshark8.5
WireGuard, kill switch, multi-hop and rotating IP options.
Security features
20% weight
NordVPN9.0
Own WireGuard-based protocol, kill switch, double VPN and threat-blocking options.
Surfshark9.0
Low long-term pricing combined with unlimited devices.
Value for money
20% weight
NordVPN7.5
Good first-term pricing, but renewal rates are noticeably higher.
Surfshark8.0
Apps on all major platforms, though the extra features add some clutter.
Apps & ease of use
15% weight
NordVPN8.5
Native apps on all major platforms, including a Linux client.
Surfshark9.5
No limit on simultaneous connections on paid plans.
Devices & flexibility
15% weight
NordVPN7.5
Ten simultaneous devices covers most homes but is not unlimited.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | Surfshark | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | No |
| Money-back window | 30 days | 30 days |
| Simultaneous devices | Unlimited | 10 |
| Independent audit published | Yes | Yes |
| Company jurisdiction | Netherlands | Panama |
| 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 NordVPN if…
You want something best for people who want one capable VPN for every device.
- + Repeated independent no-logs audits
- + Strong security extras such as double VPN
- + Apps for every major platform
Checked 1 Nov 2026.
Questions
Surfshark vs NordVPN: quick answers
Is Surfshark better than NordVPN?
Surfshark leads NordVPN by 0.3 points overall (8.7 vs 8.4). Surfshark scores higher on value for money, devices & flexibility. NordVPN scores higher on privacy & audits, security features, apps & ease of use.
Who should choose NordVPN over Surfshark?
NordVPN is best for people who want one capable VPN for every device. Surfshark is best for families and anyone with lots of devices.
How were Surfshark and NordVPN 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.