ExpressVPN vs Surfshark
In today’s digital landscape, having a reliable VPN is just as essential as running a solid antivirus. If you’re aiming to safeguard your privacy and enjoy unrestricted content from around the world, chances are you’ve come across ExpressVPN and Surfshark. These two top-tier providers each bring unique strengths to the table.
While both offer outstanding privacy protection and robust security, there are important differences that might make one a better match for your needs. In this guide, we’ll break down those differences so you can make a confident, well-informed decision.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- ExpressVPN stands out with its rock-solid stability and TrustedServer technology—ideal if you prioritize consistent performance and airtight privacy.
- Surfshark offers unlimited connections and highly competitive pricing, making it a smart pick if you use many devices or want to cover your entire household.
- Both are excellent options, but their approaches differ, meaning each is better suited for different user profiles.
Quick Comparison: ExpressVPN vs Surfshark
| Feature | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price (Annual Plan) | $6.67/month | $1.99/month (2-year plan) |
| Servers | 3,000+ in 94 countries | 3,200+ in 100 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | Up to 8 devices | Unlimited |
| Speed | Excellent (Lightway) | Superior (WireGuard) |
| Streaming Support | Wide coverage (Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon) | Effective access (Netflix, Disney+, BBC) |
| Security | AES-256, TrustedServer | AES-256, MultiHop, CleanWeb |
| User-Friendliness | Intuitive and minimalist interface | Simple yet full of useful features |
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark lead the market with expansive server networks and powerful privacy tools.
However, if you’re looking for something even more straightforward, Shellfire VPN might be the perfect fit. It’s designed for ease of use and worry-free protection—even its free plan delivers premium-level security. It’s a great option for anyone who prefers simplicity over technical complexity.
Infrastructure & Global Reach
| Aspect | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Total Servers | 3,000+ | 3,200+ |
| Countries Covered | 94 | 100 |
| Specialized Servers | TrustedServer, RAM-only | MultiHop, Static IP, NoBorders |
| Recent Expansion (2024–2025) | +400 servers | +500 servers |
With over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, Surfshark has rapidly grown its global presence. Its expansion strategy focuses on regions facing strict censorship and emerging markets, offering users in restricted environments greater access and freedom online.
ExpressVPN, on the other hand, boasts a robust network of more than 3,000 servers across 94 countries. What sets it apart is its emphasis on quality and security—each server runs on TrustedServer technology, which uses volatile RAM instead of traditional hard drives. This ensures that no data is ever stored long term, enhancing user privacy with every reboot.
Speed & Performance
| Speed Metric | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Download Speed | 410 Mbps | 470 Mbps |
| Avg. Upload Speed | 112 Mbps | 126 Mbps |
| Speed Loss vs. Base | 22% | 16% |
| Latency | 45 ms | 42 ms |
| Connection Stability | Excellent | Very good |
| Long-distance Performance | Very good | Excellent |
If speed is at the top of your list—whether you’re streaming in 4K or immersed in online gaming—Surfshark might be the one that stands out. It uses WireGuard as its default protocol, which delivers impressive performance, retaining up to 95% of your original speed—even on distant servers.
ExpressVPN counters with its proprietary Lightway protocol. While not quite as fast as WireGuard, Lightway offers unmatched connection stability. If you value a smooth and reliable connection above peak speed, this protocol is a strong advantage.
Security & Privacy
| Protocol | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | ✅ | ✅ |
| IKEv2 | ✅ | ✅ |
| WireGuard | ❌ | ✅ |
| Lightway | ✅ | ❌ |
| L2TP/IPsec | ✅ | ❌ |
| SSTP | ❌ | ❌ |
When it comes to security protocols, both ExpressVPN and Surfshark support industry standards like OpenVPN and IKEv2. However, each provider has its own approach to performance and flexibility. ExpressVPN relies on its proprietary Lightway protocol, designed for fast, secure, and reliable connections.
Surfshark, on the other hand, leverages the speed-focused WireGuard protocol as its default, which helps maintain high performance across long distances.
| Feature | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES-256-GCM |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ (Advanced) | ✅ (Bypasser) |
| Ad/Malware Blocker | ❌ | ✅ (CleanWeb 2.0) |
| Double VPN | ❌ | ✅ (MultiHop) |
| RAM-only Servers | ✅ (Full) | ✅ (Partial) |
| Private DNS | ✅ | ✅ |
| WebRTC Leak Protection | ✅ | ✅ |
| Independent Audits | ✅ (PwC, Extensive) | ✅ (Deloitte, Limited) |
In terms of privacy and security features, both services offer AES-256-GCM encryption, kill switches, split tunneling, and private DNS. ExpressVPN takes a minimalistic but highly secure route with its TrustedServer architecture, which uses only volatile RAM to ensure that no user data is ever stored. It also undergoes regular, extensive audits by PwC.
Surfshark complements its strong encryption with advanced tools like CleanWeb 2.0 (an ad and malware blocker), MultiHop (double VPN), and partial RAM-only server infrastructure. It also features IP Rotator for added privacy and has passed an independent audit by Deloitte in 2024—providing reassurance about its data handling practices.
Streaming Performance
| Streaming Platform | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix | 12+ libraries, smooth playback | 10+ libraries, occasional buffering |
| Amazon Prime | Consistent access | Region-dependent |
| Disney+ | Excellent | Excellent |
| Max | Very good | Very good |
| BBC iPlayer | Excellent | Works |
| DAZN | Stable | Inconsistent |
| Hulu | Stable | Works with interruptions |
| Special Tech | MediaStreamer | NoBorders |
Surfshark is a strong performer for streaming, letting you access platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer with ease. Its speed is a major advantage, ensuring smooth playback—even in 4K. However, depending on your region, you might need to try a few different servers to get the best experience.
ExpressVPN shines with its consistency and wide compatibility. It reliably unblocks more than 12 Netflix libraries and other popular services like Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer. Its MediaStreamer feature is especially useful for devices that don’t support VPN apps, allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions without changing network settings. Just note: on platforms like Hulu for iOS, some manual tweaks might be necessary for optimal results.
Looking for reliable streaming access across all devices?
Our Shellfire Box is designed to provide consistent access to your favorite streaming platforms, which can be a helpful solution if you’re experiencing issues with other VPNs.
Platform Compatibility
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark offer native apps for all major operating systems and devices, ensuring broad coverage no matter what tech you use. That said, ExpressVPN has a slight edge in compatibility—especially when it comes to routers and gaming consoles, thanks to its more robust manual configuration options.
- ✅ Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV
- ✅ Browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox
- ⚠️ Microsoft Edge (supported only by ExpressVPN)
- ⚠️ Consoles via manual router setup
- ⚠️ Smart TVs (compatibility varies by model)
No matter which provider you choose, you’ll be covered on most everyday devices. If you’re planning to protect your entire home network or use a VPN on a console, ExpressVPN’s flexible setup options make it a slightly better choice in those scenarios.
Performance in High-Censorship Countries
| Country | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| China | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| Russia | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Iran | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| UAE | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Turkey | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Vietnam | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
In regions with heavy internet censorship, not all VPNs perform equally. This is where ExpressVPN really stands out. Thanks to its proprietary obfuscation technology, it effectively disguises VPN traffic to avoid detection, ensuring more stable and reliable access in places like China, Iran, and the UAE.
Surfshark also performs well in restrictive environments through its NoBorders mode, which is designed to bypass firewalls and censorship filters. However, its consistency may vary during periods of intense crackdowns or network restrictions.
User Experience & Apps
| UX Aspect | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Minimalist, one-button connect | Minimalist, intuitive |
| Beginner Friendliness | Exceptional | Excellent |
| Advanced Features | Comprehensive | Adequate |
| Cross-Platform Consistency | Excellent | Excellent |
| Connection Time (avg) | 4 seconds | 6 seconds |
| App Stability | Very stable | Very stable |
| Update Frequency | Every 3–4 weeks | Monthly |
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark provide user-friendly apps with sleek interfaces and smooth performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a power user, you’ll find navigating these VPNs straightforward and efficient. That said, ExpressVPN shines with its streamlined one-button interface and Smart Location feature, which automatically selects the best server for your connection.
Surfshark also delivers an excellent experience. Its interface is clean and modern, allowing you to quickly choose servers based on location or specific use cases—like P2P or streaming. It’s intuitive enough for new users and flexible enough for advanced users.
If you prefer simplicity, our Shellfire VPN is worth considering. From installation to daily use, it’s built for ease. It protects all your devices without technical hassle, and the support team is responsive and friendly—great for anyone who values quick, stress-free help.
Customer Support
| Support Aspect | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | 24/7, ~2 min response time | 24/7, ~3 min response time |
| Knowledge Base | Extensive (~1,500 articles) | Growing (~500 articles) |
| Tutorials | Excellent | Good |
| Email Response Time | ~6 hours | ~12 hours |
| Support Channels | Chat, Email, Ticket | Chat, Email |
| Technical Knowledge | Exceptional | Good |
When it comes to getting help, ExpressVPN takes the lead. Its 24/7 live chat support is quick—typically under two minutes—and its knowledge base is packed with detailed guides and video tutorials. Whether you’re setting up a router or troubleshooting an issue, help is always at your fingertips.
Surfshark also provides quality support with friendly agents and responsive communication. However, its support library is still growing and may lack depth in more advanced troubleshooting scenarios compared to ExpressVPN.
Additional Features
| Feature | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Ad Blocker | ❌ | ✅ (CleanWeb) |
| Anti-Malware | ❌ | ✅ |
| Leak Protection | ✅ (Privacy Check) | ✅ (Alert) |
| Private Search Engine | ❌ | ✅ |
| Password Manager | ❌ | ❌ |
| Mesh Network Support | ❌ | ❌ |
| Built-in Antivirus | ❌ | ✅ (One) |
| Dedicated IP | ❌ | ✅ (Paid add-on) |
| Automatic IP Rotation | ❌ | ✅ |
| Custom Alerts | ✅ | ✅ |
Beyond the basics, Surfshark offers a wide range of additional tools that go the extra mile for your online privacy and convenience. From ad-blocking and malware protection to built-in antivirus and IP rotation, it’s designed to be a comprehensive solution for modern users.
ExpressVPN, by contrast, focuses on delivering core features with precision and stability. While it doesn’t include as many extras, everything it does offer is highly refined and incredibly reliable.
Use Case Comparison: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
Choosing the right VPN often comes down to how you plan to use it. Here’s a quick breakdown of which provider comes out on top for specific use cases—based on performance, reliability, and features.
| Use Case | Winner | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ExpressVPN | More consistent access with higher streaming quality. |
| Torrenting / P2P | Surfshark | All servers optimized for P2P with faster download speeds. |
| Gaming | ExpressVPN | Lower jitter and better stability for real-time games. |
| Remote Work | Surfshark | Unlimited device connections ideal for securing multiple endpoints. |
| Travel | Surfshark | GPS spoofing enhances location-based app functionality. |
| Restricted Countries | ExpressVPN | More effective censorship bypass with advanced obfuscation. |
Best VPN for Streaming
ExpressVPN is a true powerhouse for streaming. It consistently unblocks more than 12 Netflix libraries, as well as platforms like Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, and DAZN. Playback is smooth, even in 4K, with minimal buffering thanks to its fast Lightway protocol and premium server quality. Its standout feature, MediaStreamer, is a smart DNS tool that works on devices that don’t support VPN apps—like smart TVs, game consoles, and Apple TV—making it a perfect fit for home entertainment setups.
Surfshark also performs well across major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. Its WireGuard protocol ensures top-tier speed, which is essential for UHD content. However, streaming reliability may vary across some servers, so it might take a bit of trial and error to find the best connection for certain libraries like Hulu or DAZN.
Tip: Our Shellfire Box could be a great streaming companion. It offers seamless access to geo-restricted content across all your devices—without complicated setup or interruptions.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
Surfshark is a favorite for torrenting enthusiasts. It allows P2P traffic on all servers and offers blazing-fast downloads thanks to WireGuard. Advanced features like MultiHop (for double encryption) and Kill Switch ensure your anonymity is never compromised. With its Netherlands jurisdiction and a proven no-logs policy audited by Deloitte, you can download safely and confidently.
ExpressVPN is also P2P-friendly, offering torrent support on many of its servers. It provides robust security with AES-256 encryption, a reliable kill switch, and TrustedServer technology. While its speed is excellent, Surfshark edges it out in raw download performance and flexibility across servers.
Best VPN for Gaming
For gamers, low latency, stability, and server availability are critical—and ExpressVPN checks all the boxes. It delivers lower jitter and smoother connections, which are crucial for FPS games like Valorant, Apex Legends, or Warzone. Its Lightway protocol ensures fast server switches and sustained performance over longer sessions. Plus, ExpressVPN’s wide server network helps reduce ping by connecting you to the nearest game server region.
Surfshark performs well, too—its WireGuard protocol offers great speeds—but it may not be as consistent during heavy traffic hours or over long-distance connections. For casual gamers, it’s more than sufficient. For competitive players, ExpressVPN has the edge.
Best VPN for Remote Work
Surfshark is ideal for remote professionals who use multiple devices. Its unlimited simultaneous connections let you secure your laptop, tablet, smartphone, and even smart home devices—all under one subscription. Tools like Bypasser (its version of split tunneling) allow work apps to route through the VPN while excluding local services like printers or banking apps. This flexibility is especially useful for freelancers, digital nomads, and small business owners.
ExpressVPN is also reliable for remote work, particularly if security is your top concern. Its powerful privacy infrastructure and strong jurisdiction (British Virgin Islands) make it a solid choice for sensitive communications and work-related browsing.
Best VPN for Travel
Surfshark excels for frequent travelers. One of its most unique features is GPS spoofing on Android, which not only masks your IP but also changes your device’s physical location. This is extremely helpful when using travel apps, local services, or accessing region-specific content while abroad. Additionally, its NoBorders mode ensures reliable access even in countries with restrictive networks.
ExpressVPN is a strong travel companion too. Its TrustedServer architecture keeps your data secure even on public Wi-Fi, and its fast connection times are ideal for hopping between hotspots at airports, cafés, or hotels.
Best VPN for Restricted Countries
When facing heavy online censorship, ExpressVPN stands out as one of the most reliable tools available. Its obfuscation technology disguises VPN traffic to look like normal HTTPS traffic, effectively bypassing firewalls in countries like China, Iran, and the UAE. Combined with RAM-only servers and a strict no-logs policy, it’s a top choice for users in high-risk regions or for journalists and activists seeking online freedom.
Surfshark holds its own with its NoBorders mode, which automatically activates in restrictive regions. It works well in many countries, but its effectiveness can fluctuate depending on the level of censorship. Still, it remains one of the better budget-friendly options for occasional use in these areas.
Conclusion
Choosing between ExpressVPN and Surfshark ultimately comes down to your priorities. If you value premium performance, unmatched reliability, and advanced features for high-risk or censorship-heavy environments, ExpressVPN is a clear standout. It’s a smart investment for users who demand top-tier speed, airtight security, and consistent global access.
Meanwhile, Surfshark offers exceptional value. With unlimited device connections, impressive speeds powered by WireGuard, and extras like CleanWeb and MultiHop, it’s a versatile and affordable choice for households, remote workers, and privacy-conscious streamers.
At the end of the day, the best VPN is the one that aligns with your specific needs. But if you’re looking for a solution that’s simple, secure, and easy to use across all your devices, consider Shellfire VPN. The Shellfire Box offers a plug-and-play experience with no technical setup required—perfect for smart TVs, gaming consoles, and full-home protection.
We invite you to visit Shellfire.net and discover if our solution fits your lifestyle. Whatever you choose, make sure your VPN supports how you live, work, and connect—securely and without limits.
