Surfshark vs. Cyberghost
Looking for the ideal VPN for your needs? Let’s compare two industry heavyweights — Surfshark and CyberGhost. These standout providers have emerged as clear leaders, each offering unique strengths and some crucial differences that most reviews often overlook. While both promise top-tier privacy and robust security, key distinctions could tip the balance depending on what you’re looking for.
Surfshark shines with its optimized WireGuard implementation, delivering blazing-fast speeds. On the other hand, CyberGhost counters with a massive server network that rivals any competitor. But the real question is: which one is the better fit for your specific needs? In this guide, we dive deep into both services to help you make a well-informed decision.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- Surfshark is perfect if you’re managing multiple devices or sharing with family members, thanks to its budget-friendly prices and unlimited simultaneous connections.
- CyberGhost appeals to those who prefer extra reassurance, featuring specialized servers for better performance and an extended money-back period to thoroughly try the service.
- If simplicity is your priority, there are alternative VPNs designed for effortless usability—great for anyone who wants secure browsing without the hassle.
Quick Comparison: Surfshark vs. CyberGhost
| Feature | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Approx. Monthly Price (2-year plan) | $1.99/month | $2.19/month |
| Server Count | 3,200+ in 100 countries | 9,700+ in 91 countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | Up to 7 devices |
| Speed | Excellent (up to 950 Mbps) | Very Good (up to 750 Mbps) |
| Streaming Support | Effective (Netflix, Disney+, Amazon) | Optimized servers (inconsistent) |
| Security | AES-256, MultiHop, Camouflage Mode | AES-256, NoSpy servers |
| Ease of Use | Intuitive Interface | Comprehensive but slightly complex |
Surfshark and CyberGhost emphasize large server networks and extensive features, but Shellfire VPN takes a different approach, prioritizing simplicity and affordability—plus offering a free tier to explore the service. With AES-256 encryption, a reliable no-logs policy, and hassle-free setup for all your devices, Shellfire is an alternative worth checking out if you want straightforward protection without compromising security.
Infrastructure and Global Coverage
| Aspect | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Total Servers | 3,200+ | 9,700+ |
| Countries Covered | 100 | 91 |
| Specialized Servers | MultiHop, Static IP | Streaming, Torrenting, NoSpy |
| Recent Expansion (2024–2025) | +500 servers | +1,200 servers |
CyberGhost boasts an impressive network with over 9,700 servers across 91 countries. Its focus on specialized servers makes it easier to find exactly what you need — whether it’s streaming, torrenting, or enhanced privacy with NoSpy servers.
Surfshark, meanwhile, has a smaller but fast-growing network, emphasizing quality and availability in regions where censorship is a real concern.
Speed and Performance
| Speed Metric | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Average Download Speed | 468 Mbps | 295 Mbps |
| Average Upload Speed | 326 Mbps | 211 Mbps |
| Speed Loss vs. Base | 7% | 15% |
| Latency (Ping) | 75 ms | 115 ms |
| Connection Stability | Excellent | Very Good |
| Long-Distance Performance | Very Good | Good |
| Server Infrastructure | 10Gbps servers | Transitioning from 1Gbps to 10Gbps |
| Protocol Optimization | Highly optimized WireGuard | WireGuard available, less optimized |
Surfshark continues to stand out with its optimized WireGuard protocol and upgraded 10Gbps server infrastructure. It delivers consistently high speeds and minimal latency across locations — making it a top choice for streaming, gaming, and downloading large files.
CyberGhost maintains a massive server fleet, but its performance can be inconsistent, particularly on distant servers. Users report more variability in download speeds and higher latency compared to Surfshark, which may impact real-time activities like gaming and HD streaming.
Security and Privacy
Supported Protocols
| Protocol | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | ✅ | ✅ |
| IKEv2 | ✅ | ✅ |
| WireGuard | ✅ | ✅ |
| L2TP/IPsec | ❌ | ✅ |
| PPTP | ❌ | ✅ |
Both providers offer military-grade encryption, but there are key differences in how they manage your privacy. These details can be crucial depending on what you truly need to protect.
Advanced Security Features
| Feature | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES-256-CBC |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ (Bypasser) | ✅ (App Split Tunnel) |
| Ad/Malware Blocker | ✅ (CleanWeb 2.0) | ✅ (Content Blocker) |
| Double VPN | ✅ (MultiHop) | ❌ |
| RAM-only Servers | ✅ (Partial) | ✅ (NoSpy servers) |
| Private DNS | ✅ | ✅ |
| WebRTC Leak Protection | ✅ | ✅ |
| Independent Audits | ✅ (Limited) | ✅ (Very limited) |
Surfshark stands out thanks to advanced tools like CleanWeb 2.0, MultiHop, and an IP Rotator. These features make it a solid choice for users looking for enhanced privacy and added flexibility.
CyberGhost offers NoSpy servers hosted in Romania for increased privacy, which is a plus. However, it has faced criticism in the past for questionable transparency practices regarding user data policies.
Streaming Performance
| Streaming Platform | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix | 10+ libraries, occasional delays | 8+ libraries, dedicated servers |
| Amazon Prime | Region-dependent | Inconsistent |
| Disney+ | Excellent | Very good |
| HBO Max | Very good | Good |
| BBC iPlayer | Functional | Inconsistent |
| DAZN | Inconsistent | Problematic |
| Hulu | Works with interruptions | Dedicated servers, variable |
| Special Technology | NoBorders | Platform-optimized servers |
Surfshark stands out when it comes to streaming. Its NoBorders technology reliably unblocks more content — including Netflix US, UK, and Japan — without buffering issues, even in 4K.
CyberGhost compensates with platform-dedicated servers, but the experience is less consistent and often requires switching servers to find one that works properly.
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
- ✅ Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV
- ✅ Browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox
- ⚠️ Microsoft Edge (only supported by Surfshark)
- ⚠️ Game consoles via router configuration
- ⚠️ Smart TVs depending on model
Performance in High-Censorship Countries
| Country | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| China | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ |
| Russia | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| Iran | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ |
| UAE | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
| Turkey | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
| Vietnam | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ |
If you travel to countries with strong internet censorship, Surfshark is a superior choice. Its NoBorders mode was specifically built for these conditions and it delivers.
CyberGhost, in contrast, lacks advanced obfuscation technologies, which significantly limits its effectiveness in regions like China, Iran, or the UAE.
User Experience and Applications
| UX Aspect | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Minimalist, intuitive | Detailed, somewhat complex |
| Beginner-Friendly | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good |
| Advanced Features | Adequate | Extensive but scattered |
| Cross-Platform Consistency | ✅ Excellent | ⚠️ Variable |
| Connection Time | 6 seconds (average) | 8 seconds (average) |
| App Stability | ✅ Very stable | ⚠️ Occasional issues on mobile |
| Update Frequency | Monthly | Every 1–2 months |
Surfshark is perfect for everyday users thanks to its elegant and simple interface that remains consistent across devices. The “Quick Connect” feature automatically selects the best server, ensuring a smooth experience with minimal input.
CyberGhost offers a broader range of controls and filtering options, which power users may appreciate. However, its user experience can vary from one device to another, especially on mobile platforms.
If both options still feel too complex for your needs, Shellfire VPN may be just what you need — offering a truly simple setup and instant protection across all your devices.
Customer Support
| Support Aspect | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | 24/7, ~3 min response | 24/7, ~5 min response |
| Knowledge Base | Growing (~500 articles) | Extensive (~800 articles) |
| Tutorials | ✅ Good | ✅ Very good |
| Email Support | ~12 hours | ~18 hours |
| Support Channels | Chat, Email | Chat, Email, Ticket |
| Technical Knowledge | ✅ Good | ✅ Good |
Surfshark offers quicker response times and a more agile support experience overall.
CyberGhost has a more comprehensive self-help library, but support response times tend to be slightly slower.
Additional Features
| Feature | Surfshark | CyberGhost |
|---|---|---|
| Ad Blocking | ✅ (CleanWeb) | ✅ (Content Blocker) |
| Anti-Malware | ✅ | ⚠️ Basic |
| Leak Detection | ✅ (Alert) | ❌ |
| Private Search Engine | ✅ | ❌ |
| Password Manager | ❌ | ❌ |
| Device Mesh Network | ❌ | ❌ |
| Integrated Antivirus | ✅ (One) | ❌ |
| Dedicated IP | ✅ (Paid) | ✅ (Paid) |
| Automatic IP Change | ✅ | ❌ |
| Custom Alerts | ✅ | ⚠️ Limited |
Surfshark delivers an all-in-one solution with features like automatic IP rotation, private search tools, and built-in antivirus — ideal for users seeking extended functionality beyond just VPN protection.
CyberGhost focuses on essential VPN features, offering reliable ad blocking and optional dedicated IPs, but lacks some of the added privacy tools found in Surfshark’s ecosystem.
VPN Use Case Showdown: Best Picks for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use Case | Winner | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | Surfshark | Unlocks more platforms consistently with higher playback quality. |
| Torrenting / P2P | Surfshark | Faster download speeds and stronger privacy protection. |
| Gaming | Surfshark | Lower latency and better stability for real-time online gaming. |
| Remote Work | Surfshark | Unlimited device connections perfect for securing multiple endpoints. |
| Travel | Surfshark | GPS spoofing improves functionality for location-based apps. |
| Restricted Countries | Surfshark | More effective at bypassing censorship with NoBorders mode. |
Best VPN for Streaming
Surfshark shines when it comes to streaming. It reliably unlocks over 10 Netflix libraries, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more — often in 4K with no buffering. Its NoBorders technology merges DNS and VPN features to bypass geo-blocks smoothly, even on stricter platforms like DAZN.
CyberGhost also performs well, offering dedicated servers for platforms like Netflix and Hulu. However, the experience is less predictable and may require switching servers more often.
Tip: Our Shellfire Box instantly unlocks geo-blocked content on all your devices — no technical frustration, no buffering. Just pure, uninterrupted entertainment wherever you go.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
Surfshark offers superior download speeds and strong privacy protections on all of its servers, making it an excellent choice for frequent file sharers.
CyberGhost provides dedicated servers for P2P activity, which is a plus. However, performance can vary more than with Surfshark, especially during heavy usage or in regions with slower infrastructure.
Best VPN for Gaming
With an average latency of 39ms compared to 45ms for CyberGhost, Surfshark delivers a smoother, more responsive online gaming experience — especially crucial for fast-paced competitive games like Fortnite or Call of Duty.
In real-world gaming tests, Surfshark consistently outperforms in terms of speed, ping stability, and reduced jitter. Whether you’re playing casually or competitively, it ensures less lag and fewer interruptions.
Best VPN for Remote Work
Surfshark’s unlimited device connections make it the top choice for remote workers who need to secure multiple devices simultaneously — from laptops and desktops to mobile phones and tablets.
It’s particularly useful for freelancers, digital nomads, and distributed teams looking for a scalable, no-fuss security solution that works everywhere without complex setup or account limitations.
Best VPN for Travel
Surfshark‘s exclusive GPS spoofing feature on mobile allows users to mask not only their IP address but also their physical GPS location. This is especially useful for travelers who rely on apps that require accurate regional data — such as transportation services, banking, or local streaming platforms.
Whether you’re hopping between countries or simply want access to your home content abroad, Surfshark makes it seamless without the usual configuration headaches.
Best VPN for Restricted Countries
Surfshark‘s NoBorders mode is specifically designed to bypass strict internet censorship, making it significantly more effective in regions like China, Russia, and the UAE.
Its advanced obfuscation technology enables users to access blocked content without being detected, maintaining stable connections even under heavy restrictions. Whether you’re navigating government firewalls or trying to use social media during a trip, Surfshark offers peace of mind.
CyberGhost struggles more in these environments due to its lack of advanced stealth features, making it less reliable for use in highly censored regions.
Conclusion
Both Surfshark and CyberGhost are powerful, reliable VPN services with their own strengths. Surfshark is ideal if you’re looking for a fast, modern, and unlimited experience with advanced privacy features and seamless usability across all devices. CyberGhost may be more appealing if you value an extensive global network and want a longer money-back trial period.
But if what you truly want is a VPN that’s simple, stable, and just works — Shellfire VPN could be exactly what you’re looking for. With an intuitive setup, a free plan, and compatibility with routers and smart TVs via the Shellfire Box, it’s a great choice for families, travelers, and anyone who wants secure internet access without hassle.
The best VPN isn’t necessarily the most expensive or complex — it’s the one that fits your real needs. Take your time to compare and discover Shellfire VPN, because your peace of mind online might be just one click away.
