Surfshark has solidified its position as a leading VPN provider, offering impressive speeds, unlimited simultaneous connections, robust privacy features, and extensive server coverage. While the monthly subscription might seem pricey, the long-term plans offer exceptional value. This comprehensive review delves into Surfshark’s features, performance, security, and pricing to help you decide if it’s the right VPN for your needs.
A Deep Dive into Surfshark’s Features
Surfshark's homescreen
Surfshark’s user-friendly interface is immediately apparent upon opening the application. The left panel provides access to core features: VPN, Alternative ID, Alert, Antivirus, Search, and Settings. The central area displays a comprehensive list of server locations, organized alphabetically by country, while a prominent connect button sits on the right. This minimalist design emphasizes functionality and ease of use.
Boasting over 3,200 servers across 100 countries, Surfshark offers a wide range of connection options. While some countries have a single server, popular locations like the U.S., Canada, and Australia benefit from multiple strategically placed servers. Transparency regarding virtual server locations is commendable, as Surfshark clearly identifies which servers are physical and which are virtual, addressing potential privacy and speed concerns.
A standout feature is the unlimited simultaneous device connections, exceeding the industry standard of five or six connections. This makes Surfshark an ideal choice for families or individuals with multiple devices.
Surfshark offers several connection modes: Locations, Static IP, MultiHop, and Dedicated IP. Locations provides access to all available country servers. Static IP connects you to shared servers with unchanging IP addresses. MultiHop enhances anonymity by routing traffic through multiple servers. For an additional fee, Dedicated IP provides a unique, static IP address for exclusive use.
Surfshark's MultiHop feature
Surfshark’s MultiHop feature is particularly impressive, allowing users to not only select pre-configured routes but also create custom multi-hop connections, empowering users with granular control over their online privacy.
Additional features include CleanWeb, an ad, tracker, and malware blocker; Bypasser (split-tunneling) for selective routing; a kill switch for automatic internet disconnection if the VPN drops; and NoBorders for bypassing VPN restrictions in certain countries.
Surfshark's Alternative ID feature
Surfshark One and Surfshark One+ subscriptions include Surfshark Alert for real-time data breach monitoring and a standalone antivirus. All plans include Alternative ID, allowing users to create disposable email addresses and phone numbers to protect their real contact information. This comprehensive suite of features can feel overwhelming initially, but Surfshark provides clear explanations and guidance for new users.
Surfshark’s innovative Nexus Technology introduces a unified server network, enabling dynamic IP rotation without disconnecting the VPN and enhancing browsing anonymity. Dynamic MultiHop automatically connects to the fastest entry server and exits through the user’s chosen location, optimizing connection speeds.
Surfshark Pricing and Plans
Surfshark's pricing plans
Surfshark offers three subscription tiers: Starter, One, and One+, each available with monthly, 1-year, or 2-year terms. The Starter plan includes the core VPN, ad blocker, and Alternative ID. The One plan adds data breach monitoring, private search, and antivirus. The One+ plan further includes a personal data removal service. While the monthly plans are expensive, the long-term subscriptions offer substantial discounts. Be aware that renewal prices after the initial term may revert to a higher yearly rate.
Performance and Security Analysis
Surfshark's VPN protocols
Testing reveals consistently good connection speeds across various Surfshark servers. While not the absolute fastest, the speeds are more than adequate for most online activities, including HD video streaming. Surfshark excels at bypassing geo-restrictions on major streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Hulu, and Disney+, placing it among the top VPNs for streaming.
Surfshark maintains a strict no-logs policy, independently audited by Deloitte. This commitment to user privacy extends to the signup process, requiring only an email address and accepting various payment methods, including cryptocurrencies. While Surfshark’s headquarters have relocated to the Netherlands, a Fourteen Eyes jurisdiction, the no-logs policy mitigates potential data sharing concerns.
Security is ensured through AES 256-bit encryption and support for various VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2.
Final Verdict
Surfshark offers a compelling combination of unlimited connections, reliable performance, robust privacy features, and a wide array of extras. While the monthly price is high, the long-term plans offer excellent value. For users seeking a versatile VPN for streaming, bypassing geo-restrictions, or enhancing online privacy, Surfshark remains a top contender.
