VPN · Head to head
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN: which is better?
Short answer
Surfshark costs less in the first year ($29.88 vs $35.88). Pick Surfshark for cheap VPN with unlimited devices; pick ExpressVPN for premium VPN with identity protection.
| Fact | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Cheap VPN with unlimited devices | Premium VPN with identity protection | — |
| Free plan | No | No | Tie |
| Entry plan | Starter: $2.49 / mo | Basic: $2.99 / mo | Surfshark |
| Mid plan | One: $2.49 / mo | Advanced: $4.49 / mo | Surfshark |
| Top plan | One+: $3.99 / mo | Express Pro: $7.49 / mo | Surfshark |
| 1st year | $29.88 | $35.88 | Surfshark |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Firefox extension | Web | Surfshark |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Surfshark or ExpressVPN?
Surfshark costs less in the first year ($29.88 vs $35.88).
| 1st year | Surfshark | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $29.88 | $35.88 |
| Mid | $29.88 | $53.88 |
| Top | $47.88 | $89.88 |
Which has the better free plan, Surfshark or ExpressVPN?
Neither stands out: Surfshark: No; ExpressVPN: No.
Should you pick Surfshark or ExpressVPN?
Pick Surfshark if
- you want cheap VPN with unlimited devices
- you can pay $2.49 / mo from day one
Pick ExpressVPN if
- you want premium VPN with identity protection
- you can pay $2.99 / mo from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Surfshark pricing | surfshark.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| ExpressVPN pricing | expressvpn.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare