NordVPN and Surfshark compete in the same segment but differ on key parameters. NordVPN claims a larger server network and broader geography, while Surfshark lets you connect an unlimited number of devices and is currently cheaper on long-term plans.
That's why, when choosing between NordVPN and Surfshark, it's more important to compare server geography, the number of devices, subscription cost, and the features you need.
NordVPN and Surfshark in numbers
| Parameter | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Price per month | Basic — $14.99 | Starter — $16.45 |
| Long-term plan | from $3.49/mo | from $2.49/mo |
| Servers | 8400+ | 4500+ |
| Countries | 149 | 100 |
| Devices | Up to 10 | No fixed limit |
| Trial access | 3 days on Android via Google Play | 7 days, up to 3 devices |
| Refund | 30 days | 30 days |
The data and prices were verified in September 2026 against the official NordVPN and Surfshark websites and may change.
NordVPN vs Surfshark: servers and countries
According to published data, NordVPN offers a larger network: 8400+ servers in 149 countries versus 4500+ servers in 100 countries for Surfshark.
A larger number of servers doesn't automatically mean higher speed: the result depends on the chosen location, load, provider, and connection conditions. But by claimed geography, the advantage currently belongs to NordVPN.
Among NordVPN's own features are NordLynx, NordWhisper, Double VPN, Meshnet, and specialized server modes.
Where Surfshark is stronger than NordVPN
Surfshark's main advantage is the absence of a fixed device limit: one paid subscription supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. NordVPN lets you connect up to 10 devices.
For a single user the difference may be small, but for a family with phones, laptops, and TVs, Surfshark's lack of a limit is noticeably more convenient.
Over the long term, Surfshark is currently cheaper: Starter costs from $2.49 per month, while NordVPN Basic — from $3.49. With monthly payment the situation is reversed: $14.99 for NordVPN versus $16.45 for Surfshark.
How features and privacy differ
Both services claim no-logs, use RAM-only servers, and back up their claims with independent audits. In 2025, Deloitte re-audited the no-logs practices of both NordVPN and Surfshark.
The differences are more noticeable in the extra features. NordVPN is developing Meshnet, Double VPN, and NordWhisper. Surfshark offers Dynamic MultiHop, Rotating IP, CleanWeb, and Alternative ID.
So the choice depends on which extra features the user actually needs.
What to choose: NordVPN or Surfshark?
NordVPN is worth considering if broad server geography, NordWhisper, Meshnet, and specialized modes matter more.
Surfshark is more convenient for a large number of devices and is currently a better deal on a long-term subscription.
Need an alternative to NordVPN and Surfshark?
If you'd like to first test a full-featured VPN without a bank card, you can consider VolnaLink. The service provides 8 hours of full access, locations in 100+ countries, and apps for the main platforms.
In that time you can choose the country you need, test the VPN with your usual sites and apps, and only then decide whether you need a subscription.
See also: NordVPN vs ExpressVPN · NordVPN vs Proton VPN · Proton VPN vs ExpressVPN · NordVPN vs CyberGhost · Surfshark vs ExpressVPN · Surfshark vs Proton VPN · Surfshark vs CyberGhost · Proton VPN vs Mullvad