Choosing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be daunting. Surfshark and Proton VPN consistently rank among the top providers, offering robust security, fast speeds, and user-friendly apps. This comparison breaks down their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which service best fits your needs. Both services deliver excellent value, but cater to slightly different priorities.
Speed and Performance: A Marginal Edge to Proton VPN
VPNs inevitably slow internet connections due to encryption and server routing. However, top-tier services like Surfshark and Proton minimize this impact. Testing in 2025 showed Proton VPN averaging a 16% speed loss, while Surfshark averaged 21% – both within acceptable limits for most users.
To maximize speed, use the WireGuard protocol and select a server close to your location. Both providers offer features to boost performance: Proton VPN’s VPN Accelerator and Surfshark’s FastTrack servers. While these features don’t guarantee dramatic improvements, they may help on unstable connections.
Value and Pricing: Surfshark Leads on Long-Term Plans
Proton VPN stands out with its legitimately free tier, though it limits server access and streaming capabilities. Paid plans start at $10/month, but long-term subscriptions (two years) renew at $80/year.
Surfshark doesn’t offer a free plan but provides better value with its annual or two-year subscriptions, priced at $54 for 27 months (renewing at $79/year). It also offers a seven-day free trial of its premium service, letting you test it before committing.
Both providers bundle additional services. Proton includes a password manager, encrypted storage, and secure email. Surfshark offers an Alternative ID generator for creating fake personas online.
Privacy and Security: Proton VPN Takes the Lead for High-Risk Users
Both VPNs offer essential privacy features: kill switches, DNS leak protection, and audited no-logs policies. However, Proton VPN’s Swiss jurisdiction and commitment to transparency make it the stronger choice for users with critical privacy needs. Switzerland has strong privacy laws and is not part of the 14-Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance.
Proton VPN uses full-disk encryption, ensuring data remains inaccessible even if servers are seized. Surfshark uses RAM-only servers, wiping data on reboot, offering similar security. Proton VPN is also implementing post-quantum encryption cautiously, prioritizing security over early adoption of potentially flawed cryptography.
Proton VPN offers Secure Core servers routed through secure locations (Sweden, Iceland, Switzerland) for an extra layer of protection. Surfshark’s EverLink feature automatically reconfigures the VPN tunnel during server failures, ensuring uninterrupted protection.
Usability and Features: Surfshark for Simplicity, Proton for Control
Both providers offer slick apps for all major platforms. Surfshark excels in simplicity, with quick access to essential settings from the home screen. Proton VPN offers more granular control, allowing custom profiles and advanced configurations.
Surfshark’s Alternative ID is a unique feature, letting you generate fake personal details for online forms. Both VPNs unblock major streaming services (Netflix, Disney+, Hulu) reliably, though access can change over time.
Conclusion
Surfshark and Proton VPN are excellent choices. If you prioritize maximum privacy, transparency, and advanced security features, Proton VPN is the better option. For beginners or those seeking innovative tools like Alternative ID, Surfshark offers a more streamlined experience at a competitive price. Ultimately, either VPN will significantly enhance your online security and privacy.
