Deciding between PureVPN and Surfshark can be tough because both have a lot to offer. PureVPN is known for its extensive server network and simple interface, making it a solid choice for beginners.
Surfshark, on the other hand, stands out with its unlimited device connections and advanced features like CleanWeb for blocking ads and trackers.
If affordability and a straightforward VPN are what you’re after, PureVPN might be your pick. But if you need something more feature-packed with excellent streaming and security tools, Surfshark could win your vote.
So, which VPN is better? That depends on your priorities—ease of use, features, or flexibility. Let’s compare them side by side to help you decide!
PureVPN Overview
PureVPN is a widely-used virtual private network (VPN) service known for its robust security, extensive server network, and user-friendly features. Based in the British Virgin Islands, it offers strong privacy protections with a no-logs policy audited independently.
PureVPN provides access to over 6,500 servers across 78+ countries, enabling fast and reliable connections for streaming, gaming, and browsing.
It supports various devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and routers. Key features include AES-256 encryption, split tunneling, kill switch, and multi-login support.
With competitive pricing and 24/7 customer support, PureVPN is a dependable choice for enhancing online privacy and bypassing geo-restrictions.
SurfShark
Surfshark is a budget-friendly yet feature-rich VPN service known for its strong security and unlimited device connections.
It offers AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and protocols like WireGuard for fast, secure browsing. Surfshark includes advanced tools like CleanWeb (ad and malware blocker), MultiHop (double VPN), and a kill switch for added safety.
With servers in over 100 countries, it provides access to geo-restricted content and streaming platforms like Netflix.
Surfshark also features split tunneling, DNS leak protection, and Camouflage Mode to bypass censorship.
Ideal for privacy-conscious users, it balances performance, affordability, and ease of use, backed by 24/7 support.
Features Comparison: PureVPN vs SurfShark
When comparing Surfshark and PureVPN, several key features distinguish the two services:
1. Security and Privacy:
- Encryption: Both VPNs utilize AES-256 encryption, ensuring robust data protection.
- No-Logs Policy: Each provider maintains a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited.
- Advanced Features: Surfshark employs RAM-only servers, meaning data is wiped with every reboot, enhancing privacy. PureVPN offers quantum-resistant encryption keys, preparing for future security threats.
2. Server Network:
- Surfshark: Operates over 3,200 servers across 100 countries, providing extensive global coverage.
- PureVPN: Boasts a larger network with over 6,000 servers in 65 countries, offering a broad range of connection options.
3. Device Connections:
- Surfshark: Allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it ideal for users with multiple devices or families.
- PureVPN: Permits up to 10 simultaneous connections per subscription.
4. Streaming and Torrenting:
- Streaming: Both VPNs can access popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. However, Surfshark is noted for its reliability in unblocking a wider range of streaming services.
- Torrenting: Both support P2P file sharing, but Surfshark allows torrenting on all servers, whereas PureVPN restricts it to specific servers.
5. Additional Features:
- Surfshark: Includes CleanWeb (ad and tracker blocker), MultiHop (double VPN), and Whitelister (split tunneling).
- PureVPN: Provides split tunneling and dedicated IP addresses, with some features available at an extra cost.
6. Performance:
Speed: Both VPNs offer fast connection speeds suitable for streaming and gaming, though performance can vary based on server location and network conditions.
Pricing Comparison: PureVPN vs SurfShark
PureVPN Pricing
PureVPN offers a range of subscription plans tailored to different user needs, each available with various billing cycles:
1. Standard Plan:
- Monthly: Approximately $12.95 per month.
- 1-Year: Around $3.99 per month, billed annually.
- 2-Year: Approximately $2.14 per month, billed biennially.
- 5-Year: Around $1.69 per month, billed every five years.
2. Plus Plan:
- Monthly: Approximately $15.95 per month.
- 1-Year: Around $5.82 per month, billed annually.
- 2-Year: Approximately $3.83 per month, billed biennially.
- 5-Year: Around $2.99 per month, billed every five years.
3. Max Plan:
- Monthly: Approximately $19.95 per month.
- 1-Year: Around $7.07 per month, billed annually.
- 2-Year: Approximately $4.07 per month, billed biennially.
- 5-Year: Around $3.29 per month, billed every five years.
All plans include a 31-day money-back guarantee and support up to 10 simultaneous device connections.
The Plus and Max plans offer additional features such as a password manager, file encryption tool, and personal privacy manager.
SurfShark Pricing
Surfshark offers three subscription tiers: Starter, One, and One+. Each tier is available with monthly, one-year, and two-year billing options.
1. Surfshark Starter:
- Monthly: $15.45 per month
- 1-Year: $2.99 per month (billed $47.84 annually)
- 2-Year: $1.99 per month (billed $55.72 biennially)
2. Surfshark One:
- Monthly: $17.95 per month
- 1-Year: $3.39 per month (billed $54.24 annually)
- 2-Year: $2.49 per month (billed $69.72 biennially)
3. Surfshark One+:
- Monthly: $20.65 per month
- 1-Year: $5.99 per month (billed $95.84 annually)
- 2-Year: $3.99 per month (billed $119.70 biennially)
All plans include unlimited device connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee. The One and One+ tiers add features like antivirus protection, data breach alerts, and a private search engine, with One+ also offering a data removal service. money-back guarantee. The One and One+ tiers add features like antivirus protection and data breach alerts.
Why PureVPN Might Be the Preferred Choice:
Extensive Server Network: PureVPN operates over 6,000 servers in 65 countries, offering users a broad array of connection options.
Advanced Security Features: PureVPN provides quantum-resistant encryption keys, preparing for future security threats.
Slightly Longer Refund Period: PureVPN offers a 31-day money-back guarantee, giving users an extra day compared to Surfshark’s 30-day period to evaluate the service.
The Final Verdict
PureVPN and Surfshark are strong contenders, but PureVPN edges out in specific areas. While Surfshark offers unlimited device connections and excellent speed, PureVPN boasts a larger server network and proven reliability in bypassing geo-restrictions.
PureVPN’s straightforward interface, strong encryption, and affordable long-term plans make it especially appealing for beginners and casual users.
Additionally, PureVPN has been independently audited for its no-logs policy, reinforcing trust. For those prioritizing a cost-effective, secure, and versatile VPN, PureVPN emerges as the better choice.
FAQ’s
Which has more servers?
PureVPN wins with 6,500+ servers across 70+ countries, compared to Surfshark’s 3,200 servers in 100 countries.
Which is cheaper?
PureVPN offers slightly lower prices for long-term plans, making it more cost-effective.
Which is better for security?
PureVPN leads with quantum-resistant encryption, enhancing future-proof security.
How many device connections?
Surfshark allows unlimited connections; PureVPN offers 10 simultaneous connections.
Which is better for streaming?
Both excel, but PureVPN’s larger server network enhances reliability.
Why does PureVPN win?
PureVPN’s vast server coverage, robust security, and affordability offer superior value.