ExpressVPN vs Surfshark: Full VPN comparison

ExpressVPN and Surfshark have become two of the most popular options for online privacy and security. Both offer advanced features, such as unblocking streaming services and ensuring anonymous browsing. However, if you’re considering investing in a VPN and hesitating between these two, it’s normal to ask: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark, which option fits best?

To help you choose, this article breaks down each service’s key features. We’ll cover speed performance, security tools, and customer support. Then, we’ll compare everything you need to know. As a result, you can pick the VPN that matches your needs and lifestyle.

1. ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN comparison table

When you choose a VPN, first think about how you’ll use it. You won’t need the same features for work calls and streaming abroad. Both VPNs offer many benefits. However, your needs can make one option more suitable.

To help you spot each service’s key strengths, we’ll use a comparison table. It offers a clearer view of differences and advantages. You’ll see coverage, ease of use, speed, and impact on your connection.

ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark Comparison Table

2. Reputation and Reviews: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

The table above gives you a technical overview of ExpressVPN and Surfshark. However, how does the market view these brands? What do users say about them? And what do experts say? Both brands have earned the trust of millions worldwide. They stand out for security and data protection. Moreover, external audits have validated their privacy practices, and cybersecurity groups have recognised them with awards.

ExpressVPN awards and recognitions

ExpressVPN has won awards for reliability, performance, and security focus. As a result, it ranks among the best-known VPNs. Here are some standout awards and certifications:

• PCMag Editors’ Choice: PCMag has awarded this recognition to ExpressVPN several times. PCMag highlights speed, reliability, and customer support, which helps with streaming and video calls.
• ioXt Alliance certification: This body certifies security for mobile apps. ExpressVPN holds this certification, and ioXt confirms strong privacy standards.
• T3 Platinum Award: The tech outlet T3 gave ExpressVPN this award. It praised geo-unblocking and simple everyday use.
• PwC audit: PricewaterhouseCoopers audited its no-logs policy. It confirmed the company doesn’t store browsing data or activity logs.

Surfshark awards and recognition

Surfshark has also received awards that support its strong privacy and security standards. Among the most prominent are:

• AV-TEST security: AV-TEST recognised it as one of the “Best VPNs”. This independent institution tests security and performance.
• ProPrivacy Awards: It received “Best value for money” at the ProPrivacy Awards. Reviewers highlighted pricing and its no-logs approach.
• ioXt Alliance certification: Like ExpressVPN, Surfshark meets ioXt mobile privacy standards. Therefore, it suits people who prioritise mobile security.

User opinions: Surfshark

On review platforms like Trustpilot and tech forums like Reddit, both VPNs earn very positive ratings:

• ExpressVPN: It scores 4 out of 5 on Trustpilot. Users praise streaming performance and effectiveness in restricted countries, such as China. They also value Spanish-language support.
• Surfshark holds a 4,4 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot. Users like its competitive pricing and unlimited device connections. Therefore, it suits families and multi-device users. On Reddit, many recommend Surfshark for value.

In short, both options offer strong reputations and dependable service. ExpressVPN stands out for stability and multi-language support. Surfshark stands out for lower pricing and flexible connections.

3. Customer service: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

Like any software, you’ll likely need technical help at some point. In that case, customer support quality can make a big difference. ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer several support channels, yet key differences matter. You’ll notice changes in response times, available languages, and overall service quality.

Support availability and channels for ExpressVPN and Surfshark

Both providers promise 24/7 help designed around user needs. ExpressVPN earns praise for fast live chat. It also focuses on fixing issues within a few interactions. Surfshark offers chat and email too. In addition, it provides helpful guides so users can solve issues independently.

Comparison ExpressVPN vs. NordVPN in streaming Customer Service: Surfshark VPN

ExpressVPN stands out because it offers 24/7 support in several languages, including Spanish. Therefore, Spanish speakers get fast, efficient help. Its team knows the product well. As a result, it often solves issues within a few interactions.

On the other hand, Surfshark also offers 24/7 support, yet it mainly supports English. Even so, users often find its library useful. It includes detailed articles and troubleshooting guides. Response times stay reasonable. However, some users report slightly longer waits than with ExpressVPN.

Overall, ExpressVPN suits you if you value fast support in several languages. If you speak English and accept some waiting, Surfshark also works well.

4. Streaming Tests: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

Do you want a VPN that lets you access your favourite streaming platform anywhere? Both sites promise a strong streaming experience worldwide. So, let’s see how each VPN handles smooth, uninterrupted viewing.

Streaming services

• Netflix: Both VPNs unlock Netflix in most regions. Therefore, users can access wider catalogues without issues.
• Amazon Prime Video: ExpressVPN and Surfshark also work well with Prime Video. As a result, you can watch with fewer restrictions.
• Disney+: Both VPNs allow Disney+ access. However, some users report mixed results depending on the region.
• Hulu: ExpressVPN works smoothly. Meanwhile, Surfshark sometimes struggles in certain locations, yet it usually performs well.

Streaming Comparison: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

ExpressVPN delivers strong access across many streaming platforms. It unlocks Netflix in most countries. It also performs well on Hulu and BBC iPlayer. Moreover, it keeps steady speeds during playback. Therefore, it suits HD series and films.

Surfshark also performs well for streaming. It benefits from a large server network and fast protocols like WireGuard. Overall, it offers smooth playback. However, some users report trouble accessing certain Netflix catalogues in some regions.

In conclusion, both VPNs handle streaming well. Your choice depends on your preferences and the platforms you want to unlock.

5. Countries and servers: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

Your VPN’s server count and locations directly affect performance. Both VPNs stand out against many competitors. Still, let’s review server distribution and geographic coverage for each provider.

Servers and Countries Comparison: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

ExpressVPN: It operates over 5,400 servers in 105 countries. So, users can connect to many regions and access global content. It spreads servers strategically, with strong coverage in Asia, Europe, and North America. Therefore, it delivers stable, fast connections across many areas.

Meanwhile, Surfshark offers more than 4.500 servers in more than 100 countries. It also spreads infrastructure well, including Asia, Europe, and South America. Therefore, it suits travellers who want broader access. In addition, Surfshark adds specialised servers, including high-speed and obfuscated options. These features help in highly restricted regions.

For geographic coverage, ExpressVPN holds a slight edge in server and country counts. Surfshark stands out with specialised servers and a focus on fast connections across continents.

6. Performance and speed: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

Now let’s review two key factors: speed and performance. Both directly affect browsing, streaming, and downloads. ExpressVPN and Surfshark promise fast, stable connections. However, differences can influence your choice. Next, we’ll review speed tests, connection stability, and multi-device handling.

Performance and Speed Comparison: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

ExpressVPN stands out for strong speeds with minimal connection impact. It often drops speed by only 5 %. Therefore, users can stream and download without interruptions, even on slower networks. Its Lightway protocol improves speed and stability. Moreover, it pairs well with robust options like OpenVPN and PPTP.

Surfshark, meanwhile, delivers solid performance with a moderate speed impact of about 7 %. This drop runs slightly higher than ExpressVPN. Even so, it still works well for streaming and browsing. Surfshark uses WireGuard, known for efficiency and speed. Therefore, it suits users who want pace without sacrificing security.

In summary, both VPNs deliver strong performance. However, ExpressVPN may suit users who prioritise very low latency and top speed.

7. Dedicated IP: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

If you travel often, this section matters. It matters even more if you work while travelling. A dedicated IP can help a lot. It lets you connect from the same IP address every time. This helps you avoid blocks on banking apps and other verification-heavy sites. Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer this option, but they have important differences that are worth considering.

ExpressVPN offers a dedicated IP from $3.99 (€3.67) per month on the annual plan. This option gives you an exclusive connection without a shared IP. Therefore, it suits work platforms and business services. Setup feels quick and simple. So, you get efficiency without technical hassle.

On the other hand, Surfshark offers a dedicated IP from $3.75 (€3.45) per month on its two-year plan. It costs less, which helps budget-focused users. However, some users mention extra steps during initial setup. Surfshark also adds tools for managing multiple devices without changing your IP. So, it helps users juggling several networks and devices.

Dedicated IP Comparison: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

8. Security quality: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

Now let’s cover one of the most critical factors: security. Data protection and privacy matter when you choose a VPN. In this area, ExpressVPN and Surfshark use advanced systems to protect user information. Next, we’ll review encryption, no-logs policy, and extra security measures.

Encryption and security protocols for ExpressVPN and Surfshark

Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption, which many experts consider extremely secure. This encryption keeps intercepted data unreadable and protected. However, ExpressVPN and Surfshark also use newer protocols that improve security and performance.

• ExpressVPN built the Lightway protocol to keep connections fast and secure. It helps on public Wi-Fi, such as cafés and airports, where stability often drops. Lightway relies on wolfSSL, a crypto library with strong audit coverage.
• Surfshark uses WireGuard, known for speed and efficient resource use. Therefore, it suits users who want fast connections with strong privacy. It also helps with streaming and work video calls.

Overall, Lightway and WireGuard provide strong alternatives to OpenVPN. They also deliver notable gains in speed and stability.

Kill switch and leak protection

The kill switch matters for anyone who wants to prevent accidental IP exposure. If the VPN disconnects, this emergency switch cuts your network. As a result, it keeps your data private.

• ExpressVPN offers a full kill switch. It enables automatically when the app starts and keeps running across devices.
• Surfshark also includes an effective kill switch, yet some devices require manual enabling. In addition, Surfshark protects against IP and DNS leaks by default.

Obfuscated servers

Do you need extra protection? Surfshark offers obfuscated servers that help in countries with VPN restrictions. This includes parts of Asia and the Middle East. ExpressVPN, instead, focuses on a simpler experience and skips this feature. Even so, its Lightway protocol helps you keep strong anonymity.

External audits and no-logs policy

ExpressVPN and Surfshark both completed external audits that check no-logs claims. This matters a lot. It ensures companies don’t store or share user information.

• ExpressVPN completed an audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). PwC confirmed its no-logs policy in practice. Moreover, the company operates in the British Virgin Islands, which supports privacy.
• Surfshark also completed external audits. It also bases operations in the British Virgin Islands. Therefore, it can better protect user data from broad government collection.

In summary, both VPNs offer strong security. However, ExpressVPN may suit users who want simple setup and ease of use. Meanwhile, Surfshark suits users who want extras like obfuscated servers.

9. ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN: Which should digital nomads and remote workers choose?

Do you work remotely while travelling the world? If so, you already know why a strong VPN matters. In some destinations, you almost need it. It helps you stay connected and secure from anywhere. ExpressVPN and Surfshark both perform well. Still, which one fits a digital nomad lifestyle best?

This table compares each VPN in key remote-work scenarios. As a result, you can compare them more clearly.

Comparison for Digital Nomads: ExpressVPN vs. Surfshark VPN

After this analysis, we can say both options work very well. However, ExpressVPN suits people who need a reliable, easy VPN. Its fast access to work platforms and global content supports daily stability. In addition, its dedicated IP setup feels simple.

For most digital nomads and remote workers, ExpressVPN offers an ideal mix of speed, security, and ease. With it and your Holafly eSIM, you can stay connected from almost anywhere on the planet.

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