Choosing between ExpressVPN and Surfshark? Both are top-tier VPNs, but excel in different areas. This comparison breaks down speeds, features, and pricing to help you pick the right one for your needs.
ExpressVPN vs Surfshark: Quick Verdict
ExpressVPN is the premium choice for reliability and streaming, while Surfshark offers better value with unlimited device connections.
ExpressVPN Pros
- Consistently unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc.
- Proven no-logs policy with independent audits
- Lightway protocol offers excellent speeds
ExpressVPN Cons
- More expensive than Surfshark
- Only 5 simultaneous connections
Surfshark Pros
- Unlimited device connections
- Often 70% cheaper than ExpressVPN
- Includes ad/tracker blocking (CleanWeb)
Surfshark Cons
- Some servers struggle with streaming sites
- Smaller server network (3,200 vs 3,000)
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $6.67/month (15 months) | $2.49/month (24 months) |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| Simultaneous connections | 5 | Unlimited |
| Server locations | 105 countries | 100 countries |
| Streaming success | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Try now | Get ExpressVPN | Get Surfshark |
Who Should Choose Which?
Pick ExpressVPN if you:
- Need guaranteed access to streaming platforms
- Want the most reliable connection for travel
- Don't mind paying extra for premium service
Pick Surfshark if you:
- Have many devices to protect (unlimited connections)
- Want advanced features like ad blocking
- Prefer lower prices with long-term plans
For more budget options, see our guide to the best VPN services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ExpressVPN faster than Surfshark?
In our tests, ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol was slightly faster for long-distance connections, but Surfshark's WireGuard implementation (called Nexus) keeps up well in most cases.
Does Surfshark work in China?
Like ExpressVPN, Surfshark works in China when using specific obfuscated servers. However, VPN reliability in China changes frequently – check our country guides for updates.
Which has better customer support?
ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat with slightly faster response times, but both providers have knowledgeable support teams and extensive help documentation.
Can I use either for torrenting?
Yes – both ExpressVPN and Surfshark allow P2P traffic on all servers and include kill switches to protect your IP address if the connection drops.
Final Recommendation
For most users, Surfshark offers the best balance of price and features. But if you need bulletproof streaming access and don't mind the higher cost, ExpressVPN remains the gold standard.
