VPN · Head to head
Surfshark vs NordVPN: which is better?
Short answer
Surfshark costs less in the first year ($29.88 vs $59.88). Pick Surfshark for cheap VPN with unlimited devices; pick NordVPN for fast VPN with security extras.
| Fact | Surfshark | NordVPN | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Cheap VPN with unlimited devices | Fast VPN with security extras | — |
| Free plan | No | No | Tie |
| Entry plan | Starter: $2.49 / mo | Basic: $4.99 / mo | Surfshark |
| Mid plan | One: $2.49 / mo | Complete: $5.99 / mo | Surfshark |
| Top plan | One+: $3.99 / mo | Prime: $8.99 / mo | Surfshark |
| 1st year | $29.88 | $59.88 | Surfshark |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Firefox extension | iOS, Android, Web | Surfshark |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Surfshark or NordVPN?
Surfshark costs less in the first year ($29.88 vs $59.88).
| 1st year | Surfshark | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $29.88 | $59.88 |
| Mid | $29.88 | $71.88 |
| Top | $47.88 | $107.88 |
Which has the better free plan, Surfshark or NordVPN?
Neither stands out: Surfshark: No; NordVPN: No.
Should you pick Surfshark or NordVPN?
Pick Surfshark if
- you want cheap VPN with unlimited devices
- you can pay $2.49 / mo from day one
Pick NordVPN if
- you want fast VPN with security extras
- you can pay $4.99 / mo from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Surfshark pricing | surfshark.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| NordVPN pricing | nordvpn.com/pricing/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare