NordVPN vs Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: comparison

In our VPN comparison, NordVPN stands out as the best VPN, while Surfshark earns second place and ExpressVPN ranks third.

NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN are excellent choices with strong security, fast speeds, and good streaming support, but each offers unique strengths:

• NordVPN offers the strongest performance and security overall, with features like NordLynx and a lightweight integrated antivirus called Threat Protection Pro.
• Surfshark is the most affordable option, supporting unlimited simultaneous connections and advanced tools like MultiHop.
• ExpressVPN is the easiest to set up on a router, and delivers fast speeds thanks to the Lightway protocol and TrustedServer technology.

To find out which of these VPNs actually delivers the best overall value, I teamed up with the VPNpro research team and put all three services to the test, comparing pricing, speed, security features, privacy, streaming performance, server coverage, and ease of use. After my tests, it was clear that NordVPN edged out both Surfshark and ExpressVPN in several key areas. Read on for a full breakdown of NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN features.

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Key differences between NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark

NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN each excel in different areas, making them suitable for various needs. Surfshark is the cheapest option of the three, while ExpressVPN offers the best upload speeds, and NordVPN has the most servers in NA and Europe. Below, you’ll find a list of key differences between NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark:

• Surfshark is the most affordable VPN of the three. Its price starts at just $1.99/month, compared to $3.09/month for NordVPN and $2.79/month for ExpressVPN.
• NordVPN delivers the fastest VPN speeds. During my tests, it reached 756.3Mbps, while Surfshark and ExpressVPN averaged at 466.6Mbps and 455.5Mbps, respectively. Although Surfshark and ExpressVPN were slower than NordVPN, they still provided a smooth online experience.
• Surfshark offers unlimited device connections. It’s the only one of the three that allows unlimited simultaneous device connections on a single subscription. Meanwhile, NordVPN offers up to 10 simultaneous connections, and ExpressVPN provides up to 14 connections.
• ExpressVPN is simpler to use than NordVPN or Surfshark. Its minimalist and clutter-free interface helps to navigate the app intuitively. In contrast, NordVPN’s and Surfshark’s feature-packed design may seem confusing at first, especially for beginners.
• NordVPN offers the largest server network. It has 9,300 servers in 137 countries, making it a provider with the largest server fleet. In comparison, Surfshark has 4,500 servers in 100 countries, and ExpressVPN has 3,000 servers in 105 countries, which is sufficient for reliable performance.
• ExpressVPN has a built-in password manager. It includes a password manager in all of its plans. NordVPN offers NordPass password manager, but it’s not a part of the cheapest plan. Meanwhile, Surfshark doesn’t provide a built-in password manager at all.

Verdict. While NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN are all top-rated VPNs, NordVPN takes the lead, with Surfshark close behind in second place and ExpressVPN ranking third. NordVPN outperforms its competitors in several key areas, such as speed, server fleet size, and advanced security features.

Price comparison

Surfshark is the cheapest VPN among the three, with plans starting at just $1.99/month, compared to NordVPN at $3.09/month and ExpressVPN at $3.09/month. Even though providers’ prices diverge, they still have one thing in common – the longer the subscription plan you purchase, the better deal you get with it. Below is a comparison table for clarity:

All three VPNs offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, but their free trial options and terms vary. NordVPN offers a 3-day Android free trial, Surfshark has a 7-day mobile and macOS free trial, while ExpressVPN includes a 7-day mobile free trial. All three providers have a 30-day money-back guarantee and some variation of a free trial, so you can try these services without risk.

Payment methods

NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN all accept major credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies (BTC, ETH), but differ in digital wallet support. NordVPN adds Apple Pay and Google Pay directly, ExpressVPN offers Apple Pay and Google Pay via BitPay/wallets, and Surfshark supports Google Pay but lacks Apple Pay and Amazon Pay, making NordVPN the most versatile for various payment methods. In addition, NordVPN offers the option to buy a physical copy of its service with cash in select retail stores. This can be crucial for users who value privacy and prefer not to disclose their banking information.

Here’s a summary table of the available payment methods:

NordVPN vs Surfshark vs ExpressVPN speed results

All three VPNs' speed test results are impressive, though each provider is using a different method to achieve top speeds:

• NordVPN uses the proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol, which is based on the open-source WireGuard.
• ExpressVPN has also developed its own protocol called Lightway.
• Surfshark is utilizing WireGuard alongside Software Defined Networking for better connection stability and speed.

To determine which proprietary protocols perform the fastest, I conducted speed tests of these VPNs in different locations. Here are the results:

Based on our speed tests, NordVPN is the fastest VPN out of the three. It retained around 94% of the original internet speed, with Surfshark close behind at 92%, and Express VPN slightly behind at 90%. That said, ExpressVPN isn’t slow by any means – NordVPN is simply faster, but the difference is unlikely to be noticeable in everyday use. So no matter which provider you choose, you’ll get stable and reliable connectivity.

Security & privacy features

All three – NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN – use AES-256 encryption and follow strict no-logs policies, but their security features vary. For instance, NordVPN offers two different proprietary protocols: NordLynx (speed-focused) and NordWhisper (for restrictive networks), along with Threat Protection Pro and Meshnet. ExpressVPN has its own Lightway protocol, while also offering older ones like L2TP/IPsec. Plus, it runs all servers on RAM with TrustedServer tech. On the other hand, Surfshark supports WireGuard and includes extra tools like GPS spoofing and Alternative ID. So while all are secure, NordVPN packs the most advanced protection, Surfshark brings unique privacy extras, and ExpressVPN keeps things simple and consistent.

Here’s the breakdown of their core features:

Infrastructure and Encryption

AES-256 Encryption: NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN use AES-256, the strongest encryption standard available. To further protect your data, all three providers also include advanced features like obfuscated servers and kill switches. This ensures that your information remains hidden and secure from prying eyes.

SHA-512 Hash: Employing SHA-512 hash functions, these VPNs offer an additional layer of protection against cyber threats. This robust hashing algorithm can effectively shield user data from a wide array of potential attacks, bolstering overall security.

Kill Switch: In the event of a VPN service disruption, the kill switch feature acts as a failsafe mechanism, promptly severing internet connections to prevent data leakage. NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN all integrate this vital feature, providing users with added peace of mind.

Cloaking Technology

No-Logs Policy: NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN uphold stringent no-logs policies, ensuring that user browsing history, bandwidth usage, and network traffic remain undisclosed. This commitment to privacy safeguards user anonymity and mitigates the risk of data exposure, reaffirming the integrity of these VPN services.

Traffic Obfuscation: Each provider offers tools to mask VPN usage to help users bypass VPN blocks and deep packet inspection (DPI). NordVPN includes a Double VPN feature, which routes your traffic through two different servers, and NordWhisper, which mimics regular web traffic. Surfshark offers Camouflage Mode, hiding the fact that you’re using a VPN in the first place. Lastly, ExpressVPN uses a Stealth VPN feature to help users get around strict censorship.

Jurisdiction

While testing, I noticed that NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are based in different countries. NordVPN is based in Panama, and ExpressVPN is in the British Virgin Islands – both privacy-friendly jurisdictions. Meanwhile, Surfshark’s headquarters are located in the Netherlands, a part of the Nine Eyes alliance, which means that it could be obligated to share your data with government agencies. However, to avoid this, Surfshark collects as little of its users’ data as possible, maintaining their anonymity.

Despite its location, Surfshark adheres to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that no data about your online activities is collected, thus maintaining a high level of user privacy.

Even though the three VPNs have differing jurisdictions – all undergo independent audits to ensure transparency. These measures, coupled with their commitment to user privacy, establish them as trusted guardians of online security, empowering users to navigate the digital realm with confidence.

NordVPN vs Surfshark vs ExpressVPN servers

NordVPN’s server network is the largest among the three, with over 9,300 servers across 137 countries, making it a strong choice for global access. It’s followed by Surfshark, with a network of 4,500 servers in 100 countries, and ExpressVPN, which offers around 3,000 servers in 105 countries.

It’s clear that NordVPN is the best choice over ExpressVPN and Surfshark when it comes to server fleet size. However, ExpressVPN and Surfshark servers have a more even distribution across the globe, making them a solid option for users who need reliable access in specific regions around the world.

In summary, NordVPN stands out as the most robust VPN, with a massive and diverse server network. Surfshark takes second place, and ExpressVPN follows in third. NordVPN has an especially strong presence in North America and Europe, with over 4868 servers in those regions alone. Surfshark offers a more evenly distributed global presence, making it a solid option for users who need servers in South America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. ExpressVPN provides global coverage similar to Surfshark, but with fewer servers.

Using in China and other restricted countries

All three, NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN, offer features to bypass restrictions in China and other heavily regulated regions. Utilizing advanced technologies, they ensure anonymity and security for users, even under heavy censorship.

• NordVPN provides two tools: Obfuscated Servers and Onion over VPN. Obfuscated Servers mask your VPN usage, while Onion over VPN routes your traffic through the Tor network. Both features provide stealth and anonymity using different technologies.
• ExpressVPN uses Stealth Servers, which activate automatically if VPN blocking measures are detected. However, details on this feature are limited.
• Surfshark offers Camouflage Mode and NoBorders Mode. Camouflage mode is enabled automatically with the OpenVPN protocol. Meanwhile, you can manually turn on the NoBorders mode to access content in censorship-heavy locations.

Since testing in China is difficult due to constantly shifting restrictions, ranking these VPNs for China comes down to the variety and type of features offered.

That said, NordVPN takes first place with two distinct technologies. Second place goes to Surfshark, which offers two similar circumvention methods. Naturally, ExpressVPN ranks third with one auto-enabled feature.

Other features overview

In addition to their core functionalities, each VPN subscription package comes with many additional features to enhance user experience and security. Below is a comprehensive overview of these features, along with information on which VPN offers them.

• Ad blocker. NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN all offer ad blocker features that enhance the browsing experience by eliminating intrusive ads. These advanced ad blockers not only prevent ads from disrupting your browsing but also improve page loading times, contributing to a more efficient online experience.
• Obfuscated servers. Whether you choose NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN, they all provide obfuscated servers designed to enhance privacy by masking VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. This is especially useful in countries with strict internet censorship.
• Split tunneling. All three VPNs, NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN, offer split tunneling – a feature that allows users to control which internet traffic goes through the VPN. Users can choose specific apps or websites to route through the VPN, customizing their online experience for efficiency.
• Dedicated IP. Surfshark, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN each offer dedicated IP addresses for enhanced security and access to geo-restricted content. Additionally, they provide a unique and stable internet connection, so users don’t share IP addresses with others.
• Smart DNS. Additionally, Surfshark, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN offer Smart DNS features that allow you to access geo-blocked content and websites on devices that do not support native VPN applications.
• Web filters. NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN offer web filtering features that protect users from harmful internet threats and enhance browsing security. This ensures safer browsing, protection against malicious websites, and phishing attempts.

Extra features of each VPN provide

• NordVPN distinguishes itself with NordPass for secure password management and NordLocker for encrypted file storage and sharing.
• Surfshark offers Surfshark Antivirus as part of its Surfshark One bundle, providing real-time protection against malware and viruses and ensuring device and data security.
• ExpressVPN includes ExpressVPN Keys, a built-in password manager with features like autofill, password health checks, and breach monitoring.

Surfshark vs NordVPN vs ExpressVPN streaming performance

Surfshark, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN all excel when it comes to streaming. All three are top-tier options, effortlessly maintaining the necessary connection speeds for seamless online content consumption while seamlessly working with major streaming platforms.

I put each provider through its paces across a range of streaming services including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, YouTube TV, and more. The results were impressive across the board. Not only did they grant access to different Netflix libraries from around the globe, including Australian, Japanese, and US versions, but they also showcased exceptional unblocking capabilities.

However, it’s important to note that not all of them can stream unblocked sites without buffering. During tests, NordVPN came out as the fastest of the three, leading in both download and upload speeds. Surfshark followed closely, delivering smooth UHD and 4K streaming experiences. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN, while reliable, was the slowest of the three, which may cause occasional buffering or slower loading times during peak hours.

Torrenting and P2P

All three VPNs are suitable for streaming, yet NordVPN stands out as best for torrenting, thanks to its dedicated P2P servers, along with a SOCKS5 proxy to secure your torrent client even without a VPN connection. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN is best for advanced users in need of port forwarding. Though it’s important to note that this feature comes with hardware requirements, making it less convenient for most users.

By comparison, Surfshark is a simple but reliable option for torrenting, since it supports torrenting on all its servers without throttling speeds, allowing users to enjoy fast and secure P2P traffic. Although it lacks specialized torrenting servers, its reliable performance and security still make it a solid choice for P2P activities.

To sum it up, all three providers are well-suited for torrenting. Surfshark supports torrenting on all servers, NordVPN has specialized P2P servers and a SOCKS5 proxy, while ExpressVPN offers port forwarding on supported routers.

Device compatibility

The three VPN services support popular platforms like Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and streaming devices such as Android TV and Amazon Fire TV Stick. Additionally, they offer browser extensions for Firefox and Chromium-based browsers.

Surfshark stands out with its unlimited simultaneous connections compared to 10 with NordVPN and 14 with ExpressVPN. So if you’re sharing a VPN with family members or need to cover many devices, Surfshark is the most flexible option. Still, NordVPN is great if you want advanced features and strong performance on fewer devices. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN is a good alternative if you’ve got a smaller setup or want easy router integration.

Desktop app experience

NordVPN‘s desktop app provides a user-friendly interface across both Mac and Windows platforms, allowing users to easily navigate through server options and settings. On the other hand, Surfshark‘s desktop app also offers intuitive navigation but may lack some advanced features compared to NordVPN. ExpressVPN‘s desktop app, while robust, may be perceived as expensive by some users.

Mobile app experience

When it comes to mobile apps, NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN each offer applications for both iOS and Android devices.

• NordVPN‘s mobile app is well-designed and provides seamless server switching on both platforms.
• Surfshark‘s iOS app, however, may lack certain features like a configurable kill switch and split tunneling, which are available on its Android counterpart.
• ExpressVPN‘s iOS version also lacks split tunneling and shortcut features available on Android, but it still provides a smooth and reliable experience overall.

In summary, while Surfshark may excel in affordability and unlimited connections, NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer robust desktop and mobile applications with varying degrees of feature richness across different platforms. Ultimately, the choice between these VPN services depends on individual preferences and specific needs.

Customer support

Unsurprisingly, these three VPNs have all the necessary pillars to support the needs of their customers. Users can get help via 24/7 live chat, email, or by perusing the online self-help sections. Plus, the apps of each provider are easy to use and shouldn’t cause much trouble for customers of any tech-savvy level.

All three VPN providers, NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN, offer comprehensive customer support options, including 24/7 live chat, email support, guides/articles, and FAQs.

In terms of response times, ExpressVPN stands out with its lightning-fast live chat response time, typically answering inquiries within 30 seconds. NordVPN and Surfshark also offer quick live chat support, with responses within 1 minute and 2 minutes, respectively. Email responses are generally prompt across all providers, with NordVPN and ExpressVPN replying within 24 hours and Surfshark within 12 hours.

When it comes to handling technical, complex questions, all three providers demonstrate competence, particularly through their live chat support channels. However, none of these three providers offer phone support.

The presence of comprehensive guides/articles and FAQs indicates a commitment to helping users self-serve. These resources are essential for providing users with accessible information and troubleshooting tips. All three providers seem to excel in this aspect, ensuring that important information is both available and understandable for users of varying tech-savviness levels.

NordVPN vs ExpressVPN vs Surfshark: video review

So, which is better out of these top 3 VPNs – NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN? Find out by watching our video:

NordVPN vs Shurfshark vs ExpressVPN: Reddit ratings

Reddit is a hub of opinions and insights, making it a valuable resource for understanding how users perceive different VPN providers like NordVPN, Surfshark VPN, and ExpressVPN. Here, we delve into the Reddit community’s discussions to uncover how each VPN is described, what makes them stand out, and which users they are best suited for.

Each VPN provider has its strengths and unique features, as described by Reddit users. Reddit users report that ExpressVPN is easy to use and is great at maintaining a constant connection. What Reddit users like about NordVPN is its reliability and robust privacy features. As for Surfshark, users enjoy the perk of unlimited simultaneous connections, and how easy it is to stream with it. By analyzing these discussions, prospective users can gain valuable insights into which VPN aligns best with their needs and preferences.

Best VPN by category

Here are the final results of our three-way comparison. As we can see, NordVPN outperformed competitors in many categories.

NordVPN vs Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: final verdict

When comparing NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN, NordVPN comes out on top, keeping its title as the best all-around VPN. Even though it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the price is worth it for its excellent performance, strong security features, and strict privacy policies.

Despite Surfshark taking the second place and ExpressVPN the third, they have their own perks that allow them to measure up well to NordVPN. For instance, Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections and impressive speeds at an affordable price, while ExpressVPN provides strong device compatibility and solid extra security features.

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FAQ

Which VPN is the best: NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN?

Our research indicates that NordVPN is the best overall VPN. Here's why: It offers a winning combination of affordability, blazing-fast speeds, and exceptional performance across various scenarios. It stands out for its robust security measures, ensuring excellent privacy for users. With NordVPN, you can expect reliable protection without compromising on speed or usability.

Which VPN is the cheapest: NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN?

Surfshark is the cheapest VPN, followed by NordVPN, with ExpressVPN being the most expensive. Surfshark starts at just $1.99/month for long-term plans, NordVPN at $3.09/month, and ExpressVPN at $2.79/month. If you’re after unlimited connections and solid performance for less, Surfshark is your best bet.

Which VPN is better for streaming: NordVPN, Surfshark, or ExpressVPN?

All three VPNs perform well for streaming, but Surfshark and NordVPN have a slight edge for speed and variety. During my tests, NordVPN retained 94% of my original speed during tests, while Surfshark came close at over 92%, and ExpressVPN followed at 90%. NordVPN reliably unblocks major streaming platforms, while Surfshark’s unlimited device connections add extra flexibility. ExpressVPN also performs well, but its higher price may deter some users.

Which VPN is fastest: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark?

NordVPN and Surfshark consistently delivered the fastest speeds during my testing, especially on nearby and mid-range servers. While streaming Disney+, NordVPN managed to maintain an average speed of 756.3Mbps. Surfshark is not far behind, maintaining 730.2Mbps on average. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN maintained an average speed of 570.9Mbps – still good, but slower than its competitors.