Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Complete Comparison Guide for 2024

surfshark vs expressvpn

The following guide compares Surfshark vs ExpressVPN and breaks down all features of each service to determine which is better.

Two of the most popular VPN Providers available today, Surfshark and ExpressVPN have millions of users across the world.

TROYPOINT has selected Surfshark as our #1 VPN Provider which had many asking us to compare the service to ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN is still a recommended VPN choice, currently sitting at #4 on our list of Best VPN Providers.

We will compare all aspects of these VPN services including pricing, speed, device compatibility, features, and more.

Many trust both Surfshark & ExpressVPN to protect and anonymize all of their internet-connected devices.

This includes streaming devices such as the Amazon Firestick, Fire TV, Android TV boxes, PCs, Macs, phones, tablets, and more.

For those new to VPNs, a virtual private network (VPN) will encrypt your connection to the Internet so that all of your activity is anonymous.

This means that Internet Service Providers, App Developers, and even the government cannot track or view your online status.

There are numerous factors to consider when determining which VPN is best for you and we cover all of them in this review of Surfshark vs ExpressVPN.

Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Features

In order to compare all aspects of Surfshark vs ExpressVPN, we registered for service with each.

Both of these providers have tons of features suited to various users which we list below.

Surfshark Highlights

surfshark vs expressvpn surfshark

  • Zero Log Policy
  • Fabulous Firestick and Android applications
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections with one account
  • Low introductory pricing with our Special Discount
  • Fast download & upload speeds
  • Working Kill Switch on Firestick, Fire TV, and Android TV devices
  • Ad blocker and malware blocker
  • Split Tunneling available
  • Over 3,200 VPN servers in 100 countries across the world
  • Geo-block prevention works on popular streaming apps like Netflix and Prime Video
  • Provides popular VPN protocols
  • Cooperative with Real-Debrid
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Customer Support
  • Accepts Credit Card, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and Cryptocurrency

Full Surfshark Review

ExpressVPN Highlights

surfshark vs expressvpn express

  • Zero Log Policy
  • Fast Download Speeds
  • 160 VPN Server Locations in 94 countries
  • Shared IP Addresses
  • TrustedServer Technology
  • Compatible VPN Apps for nearly any device
  • Provides popular VPN protocols
  • Cooperative with Real-Debrid
  • Network Kill Switch on Various Devices
  • Split Tunneling
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Accepts PayPal, Bitcoin, and all major credit/debit cards

Full ExpressVPN Review

Below you will find a detailed review of the most important features of both Surfshark and ExpressVPN.

Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Speed

surfshark vs expressvpn speed

The first thing we wanted to look at when comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN is speed.

This is vital to cord-cutters who use streaming devices including the Amazon Firestick and more.

Surfshark and Express are both touted as extremely fast VPNs with thousands of server options available.

We put this to the test to see just how fast these services are on both a Fire TV Stick and a Windows PC.

In this guide, we used the Analiti Speed Test which is available in all app stores including Amazon & Google Play.

The following speed test was conducted on a 500 Mbps max Internet plan.   

Wireless tests were conducted through ASUS AC3100 Router which is approximately 20 feet away from the device.

Firestick VPN Speed Tests

After installing both VPN apps on our Firestick, we ran a few speed tests for comparison purposes.

As mentioned previously, we used Analitit Speed Test and quick-connected to the server located within the USA by default.

Surfshark Atlanta Server

surfshark vs expressvpn speed firestick surfshark

Wi-Fi: 210 Mpbs download & 153 Mbps upload

Below is the same speed test while using ExpressVPN with their Atlanta based server.

ExpressVPN Atlanta Server

surfshark vs expressvpn firestick express

Wi-Fi: 228 Mbps download & 86 Mbps upload.

Both services provided extremely fast download & upload speeds.

ExpressVPN Server was a bit faster than Surfshark on a Fire TV Stick 4K Max.

It’s important to note just how fast both these VPNs are on a streaming device like the Amazon Firestick!

Windows VPN Speed Tests

We also checked VPN speed test results on a Windows PC between the two providers.

Surfshark Atlanta Server

surfshark vs expressvpn speed test pc 1

Wi-Fi: 212 Mbps download & 288 Mbps upload

ExpressVPN Atlanta Server

surfshark vs expressvpn pc speed test 2

Wi-Fi: 234 Mbps download & 286 Mbps upload

Similar to the test on Firestick, Express was slightly faster compared to Surfshark in terms of speeds.

Zero-Log Policy

surfshark vs expressvpn no logs

When comparing Surfshark vs. ExpressVPN or any other VPN service, one of the key aspects to consider is their no logs policy.

Both Surfshark & Express offer strict no-log retention policies, ensuring user data is never logged or saved.

Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which does not enforce logging policies, while ExpressVPN is located in the Virgin Islands, offering similar policies.

Surfshark vs ExpressVPN Pricing

pricing

For those seeking a VPN provider that is affordable and offers all necessary features, Surfshark vs ExpressVPN are popular choices.

It is never recommended to use a free VPN for privacy as many free VPN companies sell user data to third parties, negating the purpose of a VPN.

VPN costs are similar to the price of a daily cup of coffee for a month of service and are worth the investment.

Prices may vary among VPN companies, so always check the official websites for current pricing details.

Visit Surfshark Official Website

Visit ExpressVPN Official Website

Comparing prices, Surfshark is relatively more cost-effective than ExpressVPN.

Note: Prices are subject to change, so always refer to the official websites for the most up-to-date information.

Surfshark Prices

  • $2.39/month for a 2-year plan
  • $3.99/month for a 1-year plan
  • $12.95/month for a 1-month plan

Purchase Surfshark VPN

surfshark vs expressvpn surfshark pricing

ExpressVPN Prices

  • $6.67/month for a 1-year plan
  • $9.99/month for a 6-month plan
  • $12.95/month for a 1-month plan

Purchase ExpressVPN

surfshark vs expressvpn express pricing

Purchasing a long-term plan like a 2-year plan with Surfshark can lead to significant savings compared to the ExpressVPN plan.

If you prefer a month-to-month option, the prices are quite comparable.

Device Connections

surfshark vs expressvpn apps

The number of device connections that a VPN offers is vital to consider when looking for a Provider.

This is particularly important for those who use streaming devices, computers, mobile devices, and more.

In today’s world, most households have upwards of 10 internet-connected devices at any given time.

Luckily, Surfshark has you covered in this aspect with UNLIMITED Connections with your subscription.

This means you will never have to worry about having one of your devices being unprotected when using Surfshark.

ExpressVPN lacks in this sense with only 5 simultaneous connections provided.

In our opinion, this is a huge miss from Express as most users have at least 5 devices in use most hours of the day.

Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Servers

It is important to consider Server numbers and locations when comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN.

The servers a VPN offers play a vital role in considering speed and much more.

The more server locations available, the more places you can set your “geo-location” to unlock content!

Here is a server breakdown for both Surfshark and ExpressVPN.

Surfshark Servers

  • 3,200+ Servers
  • 100 Countries

CLICK HERE for Surfshark VPN Complete Server List

surfshark vs expressvpn surfshark servers

ExpressVPN Servers

  • 160 Locations
  • 94 Countries

surfshark vs expressvpn express servers

CLICK HERE for ExpressVPN Complete Server List

Unblocking Streaming Apps & Services

surfshark vs expressvpn unblock apps

Another important factor to consider when comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN is their ability to unblock any geo-restrictions you may encounter with various streaming apps and services.

Many popular services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, BBC, and more have strict blockades in place for those outside of their geographic region.

Using a VPN to unblock these restrictions is one of the most popular uses a VPN provides.

Both Surfshark & ExpressVPN claim to unblock Netflix, however, we found this is not always the case.

After several tests, we found Surfshark worked perfectly with this service on nearly any device.

We even created a dedicated article that tested Surfshark with Netflix and found it worked very well with unblocking geo-restrictions!

Unfortunately, ExpressVPN did not provide the same results when connected to a UK Server to access international content.

Learn more about this test in our ExpressVPN Review.

Ads/Malware Blocking

Blocking ads and malware is another feature that some VPN services offer that usually set them apart from the rest.

surfshark vs expressvpn cleanweb

ExpressVPN has a “Threat Manager” feature that blocks app trackers for personalized ads and more.

However, Surfshark provides users with their CleanWeb feature that does more than just block trackers.

This feature works perfectly on Firestick, Fire TV, and Android devices to entirely eliminate ads that accompany various apps & APKs!

The CleanWeb feature from Surfshark is one of the best aspects of this VPN and one of the reasons it is listed as TROYPOINT’s #1 VPN Provider.

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

surfshark vs expressvpn money back guarantee

Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN provide new customers with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

We strongly suggest taking advantage of this offer to test these services prior to making a full purchase.

This is the best way to compare Surfshark vs ExpressVPN for yourself and determine which one suits your needs!

If you do not like the service for any reason, simply contact customer support for a full refund.

Device Compatibility

surfshark vs expressvpn devices

Comparing device compatibility is an essential factor to consider while exploring VPN Services.

Surfshark and ExpressVPN both offer compatible applications for nearly all preferred devices including Amazon Firestick, Fire TV, and Android TV Boxes.

Mobile apps are readily available, and users can easily install them from popular app stores.

We conducted tests on both applications using a Fire TV Stick 4K Max and included screenshots below for reference.

The user interface of Surfshark Application stood out as visually appealing and more user-friendly overall.

Check out our comprehensive guides below to understand how to install and utilize both Surfshark & ExpressVPN on an Amazon Firestick.

Surfshark on Firestick

ExpressVPN on Firestick

Surfshark Application Screenshots

ExpressVPN Application Screenshots

The settings option within Surfshark’s Firestick app is full of various options. These options can enhance your experience when you are connected.

Kill Switch

Enabling a kill switch on a VPN will disable your internet connection if your VPN disconnects. This feature is offered by Surfshark on streaming devices like Firestick, Fire TV, and Android TV.

This is a huge advantage for users of these devices who utilize various streaming applications.

Surfshark Kill Switch

ExpressVPN offers a similar feature called “Network Lock,” available on devices like Fire TV and Android TV. This feature will block the internet if unable to connect or reconnect to the VPN, functioning similarly to a Kill Switch.

Surfshark vs ExpressVPN Protocols

If you are new to VPNs, you may not be familiar with the different protocols usually offered. These protocols offer various benefits to users for maximizing service usage.

surrfshark vs expressvpn protocols

When comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN, it’s essential to consider the protocol options each provides. ExpressVPN offers protocols like IKEv2, OpenVPN, L2TP, and Lightway, whereas Surfshark offers WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN.

Real-Debrid Compatible

If you are a cord-cutter using applications like Kodi, you may know about Real-Debrid. Real-Debrid enhances VOD content streaming, ensuring a buffer-free experience for movies and TV shows. Fortunately, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are compatible with Real-Debrid, listed as Cooperative on the Real-Debrid official website.

In our comparison, Surfshark has several advantages, such as pricing plans and unblocking capabilities, making it a desirable option for many users.

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