Surfshark Review 2025

HyperSwap Verdict

Surfshark has quickly established itself as the go-to choice for users seeking maximum value. With unlimited simultaneous connections, competitive pricing, and a robust feature set, it punches well above its weight class. While it may not match ExpressVPN's raw speed, Surfshark offers an unbeatable combination of affordability and functionality that makes it our top budget recommendation.

Unlimited Devices - The Game Changer

Surfshark's unlimited device policy sets it apart from virtually every competitor. While most VPNs limit you to 5-10 simultaneous connections, Surfshark lets you protect every device in your household with a single subscription.

What Unlimited Really Means

• No Connection Limits: Protect phones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, routers, and more
• Family Sharing: Perfect for families or small businesses
• Device Flexibility: Switch between devices without disconnecting others
• Router Installation: Protect entire network plus individual devices
• IoT Protection: Secure smart home devices through router setup

Real-World Testing

We tested Surfshark with 15+ simultaneous connections across various device types. Performance remained stable with minimal speed degradation, making it genuinely practical for large households or small offices.

Speed Test Results

Surfshark's speeds have improved significantly since launch, though they can vary depending on server selection and time of day.

Speed Optimization Tips

• Use WireGuard: Fastest protocol available in Surfshark apps
• Choose Nearby Servers: Closer servers generally offer better speeds
• Avoid Peak Hours: Speeds can slow during high-traffic periods
• Try Different Servers: Server load varies, so test multiple options

Security & Privacy Features

Despite being newer to the market, Surfshark offers a comprehensive security suite that rivals established competitors.

Core Security Features

• Encryption: AES-256-GCM with ChaCha20 for mobile devices
• Protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec
• Kill Switch: Available on all platforms
• DNS Leak Protection: Built-in protection against DNS leaks
• Perfect Forward Secrecy: New encryption keys for each session
• RAM-only Servers: No data stored on hard drives

Advanced Security Features

• MultiHop: Route traffic through two VPN servers
• CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, malware, and phishing attempts
• Camouflage Mode: Hides VPN usage from ISPs and networks
• NoBorders Mode: Works in restrictive countries
• Whitelister: Split tunneling for selective app routing
• HackLock: Alerts if email/password found in data breaches

Privacy Policy & Jurisdiction

Surfshark is based in the British Virgin Islands, outside major surveillance alliances. Their no-logs policy has been independently audited by Cure53, confirming they don't store user activity or connection logs.

Streaming Performance

Surfshark performs admirably with streaming services, consistently unblocking major platforms from various global locations.

Streaming Services Tested

• Netflix: ✓ Works with US, UK, Canada, Japan, and other libraries
• Hulu: ✓ Reliable access from US servers
• BBC iPlayer: ✓ Consistent access with UK servers
• Disney+: ✓ Works with multiple regional libraries
• Amazon Prime Video: ✓ Good performance, occasional server switching needed
• HBO Max: ✓ Works well with US servers
• Peacock: ✓ Access from select US servers
• Paramount+: ✓ Reliable streaming performance
• DAZN: ✓ Works for sports streaming

Streaming Optimization

Surfshark doesn't have dedicated streaming servers, but their Smart DNS feature (included free) allows streaming on devices that don't support VPN apps natively, like smart TVs and gaming consoles.

Server Network Analysis

With over 3,200 servers across 65 countries, Surfshark offers good global coverage, though not as extensive as some larger competitors.

Server Distribution

• North America: Strong presence in US and Canada
• Europe: Excellent coverage across major countries
• Asia-Pacific: Good coverage including Japan, Singapore, Australia
• Emerging Markets: Servers in India, Brazil, South Africa

Server Technology

• RAM-only Infrastructure: All servers run on RAM for enhanced security
• Static IP Options: Available as add-on service
• MultiHop Servers: Specialized servers for double VPN routing
• P2P Optimized: All servers support torrenting

Pricing & Value Proposition

Surfshark's pricing strategy focuses on long-term value, offering some of the most competitive rates in the industry.

Surfshark One Bundle

Surfshark offers additional services bundled with their VPN:

• Surfshark Antivirus: Real-time malware protection
• Surfshark Search: Private search engine with no ads or tracking
• Surfshark Alert: Data breach monitoring service
• Bundle Pricing: All services for $3.99/month on 24-month plans

Value Analysis

When considering the unlimited device policy, Surfshark offers exceptional value. A family of four would need multiple subscriptions with other providers, making Surfshark's single unlimited plan extremely cost-effective.

Apps & User Experience

Surfshark's apps strike a good balance between simplicity and functionality, making them accessible to beginners while offering advanced features for power users.

Platform Availability

• Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Mobile: iOS, Android
• Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox, Edge
• TV/Streaming: Android TV, Fire TV, Apple TV
• Gaming Consoles: Via router or Smart DNS
• Routers: Various firmware support

User Interface Design

• Clean Layout: Intuitive design with easy server selection
• Quick Connect: One-click connection to fastest server
• Favorites: Save frequently used server locations
• Settings: Comprehensive options without overwhelming users
• Dark Mode: Available across all platforms

Unique Features

• Bypasser: Split tunneling with granular app control
• CleanWeb Toggle: Easy ad-blocking on/off switch
• Auto-Connect: Automatic connection on untrusted networks
• GPS Spoofing: Android location masking (requires root)

Customer Support Experience

Surfshark offers multiple support channels with generally helpful responses, though wait times can vary during peak periods.

Support Channels

• 24/7 Live Chat: Available but may have longer wait times
• Email Support: Detailed responses within 24-48 hours
• Knowledge Base: Comprehensive setup guides and troubleshooting
• Video Tutorials: Step-by-step installation guides
• Blog & Resources: Privacy education and VPN guides

Support Quality Assessment

Our testing showed knowledgeable support staff capable of handling both basic setup questions and technical issues. Live chat response times averaged 8-15 minutes, with email support providing more detailed technical assistance.

Torrenting & P2P Performance

Surfshark allows P2P traffic on all servers, making it convenient for torrenting without needing to find specific P2P-optimized servers.

P2P Features

• All Servers P2P-Enabled: No need to find specific servers
• No Bandwidth Limits: Unlimited data transfer
• Kill Switch Protection: Prevents IP leaks during disconnections
• Port Forwarding: Not available (security-focused approach)
• SOCKS5 Proxy: Not offered separately

Torrenting Performance

P2P speeds were generally good, averaging 65-75% of baseline speeds. The ability to use any server for torrenting provides flexibility, though some servers perform better than others for P2P traffic.

Gaming & Low-Latency Use Cases

While not specifically designed for gaming, Surfshark can work for gamers who need geo-unblocking or DDoS protection.

Gaming Considerations

• Latency Impact: Adds 15-35ms depending on server distance
• Server Selection: Choose geographically close servers
• Bypasser Feature: Route only specific games through VPN
• Static IP Option: Available for consistent gaming connections
• DDoS Protection: Helps protect against targeted attacks

Business & Enterprise Use

While primarily consumer-focused, Surfshark's unlimited device policy makes it attractive for small businesses and remote teams.

Business Benefits

• Unlimited Devices: Cover entire team with one subscription
• Cost Effective: Much cheaper than per-seat enterprise solutions
• Remote Work: Secure connections for distributed teams
• Static IP Options: Consistent IP addresses for business needs
• CleanWeb: Built-in ad and malware blocking

Limitations for Enterprise

• No Centralized Management: Each user manages their own connection
• Limited Business Features: No dedicated account management
• Consumer-Grade Support: Not enterprise-level SLA

Comparison with Competitors

Here's how Surfshark stacks up against other popular VPN services in key areas:

vs. ExpressVPN

• Speed: ExpressVPN faster, but Surfshark improving
• Price: Surfshark significantly cheaper
• Devices: Surfshark unlimited vs ExpressVPN's 5
• Streaming: Both work well, ExpressVPN slightly more reliable

vs. NordVPN

• Features: Similar advanced security features
• Servers: NordVPN has more servers and countries
• Devices: Surfshark unlimited vs NordVPN's 6
• Price: Very competitive, Surfshark often cheaper

vs. CyberGhost

• Servers: CyberGhost has more servers
• Devices: Surfshark unlimited vs CyberGhost's 7
• Interface: Both user-friendly, different approaches
• Guarantee: CyberGhost offers 45 days vs Surfshark's 30

Final Verdict

Surfshark earns our Best Value Award for 2025. The combination of unlimited device connections, competitive pricing, and solid performance makes it an outstanding choice for budget-conscious users who don't want to compromise on features. While it may not have the absolute fastest speeds or largest server network, the value proposition is unmatched.

Best For:

• Families or households with many devices
• Budget-conscious users seeking premium features
• Small businesses or remote teams
• Users who want ad-blocking built into their VPN
• Those who need VPN access in restrictive countries
• Streaming enthusiasts on a budget
• Users who value simplicity with advanced options available

Consider Alternatives If:

• You need the absolute fastest speeds available
• You require the largest possible server network
• You need enterprise-grade business features
• You prefer providers with longer track records
• You need instant customer support response

HyperSwap Score Breakdown

• Value for Money: 9.5/10
• Device Policy: 10/10
• Security & Privacy: 8.5/10
• Speed & Performance: 7.5/10
• Streaming: 8.5/10
• User Experience: 8.5/10
• Customer Support: 7.0/10