Surfshark review 2026

Surfshark relies on AES-256-GCM encryption and supports the WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols. Its in-house Nexus technology is an innovative approach: instead of routing traffic through a single VPN server, it is routed through a network of servers. That increases security and stabilises the connection considerably. The no-logs policy was independently audited and confirmed by the auditing firm Deloitte. All servers run on RAM-only infrastructure, which technically rules out physical data storage. Surfshark also runs a bug bounty programme via Intigriti and publishes an annual warrant canary (a statement that no secret data requests have been received). The kill switch is available on all platforms, and DNS and IPv6 leak protection are active by default. The MultiHop function (Double VPN) routes traffic through two servers in different countries, which provides an additional layer of anonymity. However: a registered office in the Netherlands (EU/9 Eyes) is less ideal from a data protection perspective than Panama or the BVI. Scoring (25/30): Very good security with a Deloitte audit, RAM-only servers and innovative Nexus technology. A deduction for the EU registered office (a 9 Eyes country) and the shorter market presence since 2018.

By default, Surfshark uses the fast WireGuard protocol and is therefore well suited to streaming, downloads and video calls. How much speed is lost depends on your line, server distance and load; our grading (“fast”) is an editorial assessment, not our own series of measurements. Surfshark advertises streaming support. There is no guarantee: streaming services continually block detected VPN addresses. Try your preferred service within the 30-day money-back period. Practical for households with many devices: as there is no device limit, smartphones, laptops, smart TV and console can all be connected at the same time – speed then depends mainly on your own connection. Scoring (17/20): A fast standard protocol and streaming support. A slight deduction compared with NordVPN, which offers a little more leeway with NordLynx and more servers.

According to the provider, Surfshark operates more than 4,500 servers in 100 countries – a solid network that covers all the important regions. The number of servers is below NordVPN (7,000+) but more than sufficient for most users. Servers are located in Europe, North America, Asia, South America and in a few places in Africa. Among special servers, Surfshark offers MultiHop (Double VPN), Camouflage Mode (obfuscation for countries with censorship) and static IP servers in selected countries. All servers support P2P/torrenting by default. Virtual locations are clearly marked. Nexus technology ensures that traffic is not routed through just one server but dynamically through the optimal network. That reduces dependence on individual servers and clearly improves both speed and resilience. Scoring (15/18): A good server network covering 100 countries, with innovative Nexus routing technology. A deduction for the lower number of servers and fewer types of special server than NordVPN.

Surfshark's killer feature is the unlimited number of simultaneous device connections – no other provider in our comparison offers it. Whether smartphone, laptop, smart TV, games console or router: everything can be protected at the same time, with no limits. For families and shared flats, that is an unbeatable advantage. The apps are available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Fire TV and as a browser extension. The user interface is modern and tidy, if slightly less polished than NordVPN's. Split tunnelling (Bypasser) is available on Windows and Android, but unfortunately not on macOS and iOS. CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers and malware domains directly in the VPN tunnel – an effective alternative to conventional ad blockers. Customer service can be reached around the clock via live chat, mostly in English. On the plus side: the subscription can be ended via a cancellation button directly on the website. Scoring (19/20): Unlimited devices are a unique selling point. Very good apps and 24/7 support. A minimal deduction for the missing split tunnelling on macOS/iOS.

Surfshark offers three levels: Starter, One and One+. In the current 2-year promotion (2 years + 3 months), Starter and One each cost €2.49 a month and One+ €3.99 a month – for Starter, €67.23 is due upfront. The 1-year plan is €2.99 a month, the monthly plan €18.95 (as of 30 October 2026, possibly plus VAT according to the pricing page). Surfshark does not show the renewal price after the first term on its pricing page. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee. Starter includes VPN and an ad and cookie pop-up blocker; One adds antivirus, data breach alerts and an Alternative ID, and One+ also adds Incogni (data removal). There is no free plan. For the range of features on offer, the value for money is very good: unlimited devices, WireGuard, Nexus technology, CleanWeb and 24/7 support from €2.49 a month. Only CyberGhost is still slightly cheaper in the first term (€2.19 a month). That makes Surfshark particularly attractive for families and users with many devices. Scoring (11/12): Very good value for money in comparison. 30-day guarantee. A deduction for the expensive monthly plan, the renewal price not being shown and the missing free tier.