ExpressVPN vs Surfshark
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
ExpressVPN is a premium consumer VPN known for fast speeds, a large global server network, and a very easy setup, with an audited no-logs policy. It is a mainstream, polished choice.
Surfshark is a value-oriented VPN offering unlimited simultaneous connections, a no-logs policy, and extras like ad blocking, at a lower price than premium rivals. It punches above its weight on features per dollar.
No free tier; plans around $6.67–$12.95/month depending on term.
No free tier; plans around $2.49–$15.45/month depending on term.
- Fast and reliable
- Very easy to use
- Large server network
- Good for streaming
- Unlimited devices
- Great value
- Useful extras
- Good speeds
- No free tier
- Pricier than rivals
- Fewer power-user features
- No free tier
- Best price needs long commitment
- Younger brand than incumbents
What reviewers say
ExpressVPN Reviews
4.5 (4)Great vpn
We rolled out ExpressVPN last quarter. Good for streaming. No real complaints. Would recommend.
Great vpn
We rolled out ExpressVPN last quarter. Fast and reliable. Minor gripe: no free tier. Would recommend.
Great vpn
Been using ExpressVPN for a while. Very easy to use. Minor gripe: no free tier. Would recommend.
Surfshark Reviews
4.5 (2)Great vpn
We rolled out Surfshark last quarter. Unlimited devices. No real complaints. Would recommend.
Solid choice
Tried Surfshark recently. Great value. Minor gripe: younger brand than incumbents. Would recommend.
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to ExpressVPN
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Alternatives to Surfshark
View all →The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataExpressVPN offers faster, more reliable performance and a larger server network, while Surfshark provides better value with unlimited device support.
Key differences
- •ExpressVPN uses the Lightway protocol for speed; Surfshark emphasizes unlimited simultaneous devices.
- •Surfshark includes CleanWeb ad/tracker blocking; ExpressVPN does not list this feature.
- •Pricing: Surfshark's lowest plan (~$2.49/mo) is cheaper than ExpressVPN's (~$6.67/mo).
- •Server network size is highlighted for ExpressVPN; both have large networks but ExpressVPN markets it as a key strength.
Pricing & value
Surfshark starts around $2.49/mo versus ExpressVPN's $6.67/mo, offering lower cost for similar platform coverage.
Ease of use / learning curve
ExpressVPN is described as "very easy to use" with simple apps for every platform; Surfshark’s ease is not specified.
Features & depth
Surfshark adds CleanWeb ad/tracker blocking and unlimited devices, features not listed for ExpressVPN.
Integrations & ecosystem
Both provide desktop apps on the same major platforms; no APIs or open‑source components for either.
Security & privacy
Both have audited/no‑logs policies; specific protocol differences (Lightway) do not affect privacy claims.
Scalability
Surfshark supports unlimited simultaneous devices, whereas ExpressVPN’s device limit is not specified.
Support
Support details are not provided for either product.
Choose ExpressVPN if…
Users who prioritize speed, reliability, and a large server network over cost.
Choose Surfshark if…
Budget‑focused households needing many devices protected simultaneously.
Common questions
Which VPN is cheaper for a family with many devices?
Surfshark, with plans as low as $2.49/mo and unlimited simultaneous device support.
Which service is marketed as faster for streaming?
ExpressVPN, highlighting its Lightway protocol and reputation for fast, reliable streaming performance.
Do either of these VPNs offer a free tier?
No. Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark are paid‑only subscriptions with no free tier.