Surfshark vs Mullvad
When comparing VPNs like Surfshark and Mullvad, you’re really comparing philosophies. Do you want layers of user-friendly features and modern conveniences, or a stripped-down, privacy-first tool that quietly does its job without compromise?
This guide breaks down everything that matters: performance, infrastructure, security tools, streaming capabilities, and beyond. No matter what your digital priorities are, you’ll come away with a clear picture of which provider complements your needs, or if a third type of solution might make more sense.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- Surfshark delivers a feature-rich service with unlimited device connections and broad international coverage at a competitive long-term price.
- Mullvad emphasizes user privacy with anonymous, account-free access and transparent security practices, all without data retention.
- Other VPN options may better suit users seeking ultra-simple installation or full-network coverage through pre-configured hardware devices.
Quick Comparison: Surfshark vs Mullvad
| Feature | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Headquarters | Netherlands (formerly British Virgin Islands) | Sweden |
| Price (monthly) | $12.95 (or $2.49/month on 2-year plan) | €5 flat rate (no discounts) |
| Free Trial | Yes (7-day mobile trial + 30-day money-back) | No free trial, but anonymous payments accepted |
| Simultaneous Devices | Unlimited | 5 per account |
| Logging Policy | No logs, independently audited | No logs, does not even require email |
At first glance, these providers reflect two distinct philosophies: Surfshark delivers expansive functionality and pricing flexibility, while Mullvad zeroes in on privacy purity. Each has its advantages, and understanding these core differences is key to finding the right fit.
Alternatively, users looking for a balance between simplicity and household-wide coverage might consider the Shellfire Box. While it doesn’t compete in raw feature count, it excels at providing reliable VPN protection across an entire home network without requiring individual device setups, making it ideal for non-technical users or families with diverse digital habits.
Infrastructure & Global Coverage
| Metric | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Total Servers | 3,200+ | 600+ |
| Countries Covered | 100+ | 38 |
| City-Level Options | Yes (many cities per country) | Limited |
| Virtual Servers | Yes, clearly labeled | No (physical only) |
| Colocated Infrastructure | Partially (transitioning) | Yes (owned hardware in key locations) |
Surfshark offers a vast global reach that’s ideal for frequent travelers or those needing access to diverse regional content. In contrast, Mullvad favors fewer, high-integrity locations using fully owned servers, making it better suited for privacy purists who value control over geographic breadth.
Speed & Performance
| Test Location | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Download Speed (avg) | 780 Mbps | 740 Mbps |
| Upload Speed (avg) | 650 Mbps | 680 Mbps |
| Latency (US to EU) | 82 ms | 77 ms |
| WireGuard Performance | Excellent (enabled by default) | Excellent (WireGuard as core protocol) |
| Connection Time | 2–3 seconds | 1–2 seconds |
Performance is solid on both sides, with Mullvad showing slight advantages in upload speed and connection time. Surfshark compensates with a larger server base optimized for high-bandwidth tasks like streaming or remote work, giving users great flexibility and speed across the board.
Security & Privacy
| Feature | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption Standard | AES-256-GCM / ChaCha20 | AES-256-GCM / ChaCha20 |
| VPN Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
| Kill Switch | Yes (system-level) | Yes (system-level and app-specific) |
| DNS Leak Protection | Yes (private DNS) | Yes (Mullvad DNS) |
| Audit History | Multiple independent audits (incl. Cure53) | Regular independent audits (latest in 2023) |
| Data Collection | Zero logs, requires email for signup | Zero logs, no email or personal info required |
Mullvad sets a high benchmark for privacy with its anonymous signup system using randomly generated account numbers and options for cash payments. It’s a rarity in the VPN world and ideal for users who don’t want to leave a trace.
This uncompromising privacy model has been examined alongside other leading services like ExpressVPN, highlighting important trade-offs between anonymity and broader usability.
Surfshark, while more traditional in its account creation, also offers a robust no-logs policy and strong legal protections due to its jurisdiction in the Netherlands. Both are highly secure, but Mullvad is particularly appealing to privacy maximalists.
Streaming Performance
| Platform | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix (US, UK, JP) | Yes (all regions unlocked) | Partial (inconsistent results) |
| Hulu | Yes | No |
| BBC iPlayer | Yes | Occasionally works |
| Disney+ | Yes | No |
| Amazon Prime Video | Yes | Rarely works |
| Streaming Quality | 4K supported on most servers | 720p to 1080p (when available) |
When it comes to unblocking and streaming, Surfshark is an easy winner. Its ability to consistently unlock geo-restricted platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer makes it a top pick for content enthusiasts. Video quality is excellent, with support for 4K on many servers.
For those comparing Surfshark’s streaming strength against other popular options, a look at how it fares next to NordVPN can offer more context, especially for users focused on entertainment flexibility.
Mullvad, however, intentionally avoids catering to the streaming market, resulting in limited and inconsistent access. It’s more suitable for users who prioritize privacy over entertainment.
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
| Platform | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes (GUI and CLI) | Yes (GUI and CLI) |
| iOS / Android | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Extensions | Chrome, Firefox, Edge | No |
| Smart TVs / Firestick | Yes | No (manual setup only) |
| Routers | Yes (manual + OpenWRT configs) | Yes (OpenVPN/WireGuard setups) |
| Gaming Consoles | Yes (via Smart DNS or router) | Yes (via router only) |
Surfshark is more versatile in terms of platform support, offering native apps and extensions for nearly every device category, including smart TVs and consoles. It’s a great match for users with diverse devices who want a streamlined experience. Mullvad favors a simplified, privacy-first approach, which includes skipping browser plugins and smart device support, making it better suited for users focused on minimalism and manual configuration.
Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries
| Country | Surfshark Rating | Mullvad Rating |
|---|---|---|
| China | Moderate (requires manual setup/obfuscation) | Poor (often blocked) |
| Russia | Good (servers near border work well) | Moderate (requires WireGuard) |
| Iran | Moderate (via stealth protocols) | Poor (no obfuscation features) |
| Turkey | Good | Moderate |
| UAE | Moderate | Poor |
For users in highly restrictive environments, Surfshark offers more practical solutions thanks to features like obfuscated servers and NoBorders mode, which help bypass deep packet inspection. Mullvad, while technically robust, does not implement these stealth techniques, making it less effective in countries where VPN usage is aggressively blocked.
User Experience & Apps
| Aspect | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Modern, user-friendly with onboarding | Minimalist and functional |
| Ease of Use | Very easy for beginners | Requires basic understanding of VPNs |
| Connection Stability | Very stable across all platforms | Highly stable, especially on Linux |
| Customization Options | High (protocol switching, bypass tools, etc.) | Moderate (focused on transparency) |
| Multi-Platform Sync | Yes, seamless | No account-based sync (privacy design) |
Surfshark offers a polished and intuitive interface that simplifies VPN usage across all devices. It’s ideal for families or users new to VPNs. Mullvad takes a lean, no-frills approach that appeals to technically inclined users who value transparency and control over visual design and automation.
That said, the Shellfire Box stands out for users who prefer to avoid any software management altogether. Once plugged into a router, it protects all connected devices, without app installations or configuration steps. This type of plug-and-play simplicity offers a different kind of user experience, especially valuable for households with many non-tech-savvy members.
Customer Support
| Support Channel | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | Yes (24/7) | No |
| Email Support | Yes (fast response) | Yes (business hours, 24–48h) |
| Knowledge Base | Extensive, searchable | Thorough documentation with markdown-style guides |
| Response Time (avg) | Under 1 hour | 24–36 hours |
| Setup Tutorials | Yes (videos, step-by-step) | Yes (technical but clear) |
Surfshark shines when it comes to customer support, offering live chat and rapid responses that are useful for troubleshooting or onboarding. Mullvad deliberately omits real-time support to protect privacy but compensates with deep, well-organized documentation. It’s excellent for DIY users but might be a challenge for those needing real-time assistance.
Additional Features
| Feature | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Split Tunneling | Yes (platform-specific) | No |
| Ad & Tracker Blocking | Yes (CleanWeb) | Yes (through DNS filtering) |
| MultiHop / Double VPN | Yes | No |
| Static IP Option | Yes (paid add-on) | No |
| Port Forwarding | No | Yes |
| Meshnet / LAN Visibility | No | Yes (for advanced setups) |
| Obfuscation Tools | Yes (NoBorders mode) | No |
Surfshark is loaded with advanced tools for users seeking flexible configurations, multi-hop routing, static IPs, and ad blocking, just to name a few. Mullvad, however, sticks to features that support privacy and efficiency, such as port forwarding and LAN visibility, which appeal strongly to developers, hobbyists, and privacy veterans.
Still, for users who prioritize ease of use and comprehensive device coverage over individual technical features, Shellfire VPN offers an appealing model. Especially through the Shellfire Box, users can achieve whole-home VPN protection without needing to tweak settings or understand advanced features, trading complexity for convenience without sacrificing core security.
VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More
| Use Case | Surfshark | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Torrenting / P2P | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Gaming | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Remote Work | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Budget-Conscious | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Censorship Resistance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
Best VPN for Streaming
Surfshark is built for streaming. It consistently unlocks geo-blocked platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, offering high-resolution playback and fast server switching. Whether you’re into international dramas or region-exclusive sports, Surfshark handles it all with minimal buffering and excellent compatibility.
Mullvad doesn’t optimize for streaming and generally avoids such integrations. It may work sporadically but doesn’t provide guarantees. This is intentional, Mullvad focuses on maintaining neutrality and minimizing data exposure.
Alternatively, Shellfire VPN may suit users who want reliable access to streaming platforms with a simplified setup. While not as aggressive as Surfshark in targeting specific content providers, its smart home compatibility and steady performance through our Shellfire Box make it an attractive option for families who prefer streaming across shared networks without technical hurdles.
Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P
Mullvad stands out for peer-to-peer users, especially those who prioritize anonymity. With features like port forwarding, strong encryption, and anonymous signup options, it offers a secure and efficient torrenting environment.
Surfshark also supports P2P on most servers and provides strong speeds, particularly with WireGuard. It suits casual torrenters or those who want broad compatibility without manual setup.
Best VPN for Gaming
Surfshark provides low latency and a global network that benefits gamers seeking fast response times. It also supports Smart DNS setups, making it ideal for console gaming.
Mullvad is also excellent for PC gamers looking for performance and transparency. However, lack of Smart DNS and native console support means it’s best for more technical users who prefer router-based setups.
However, gamers looking for console-wide protection without diving into manual configurations might find value in the Shellfire Box. By routing all console traffic through the VPN at the router level, it offers a practical way to protect gaming sessions with minimal latency and no need for app-level integration, making it a simple but effective solution for casual and household gamers alike.ups.
Best VPN for Remote Work
Surfshark supports remote work with stable apps, split tunneling, and multi-device compatibility. Its unlimited connections and user-friendly interface make it a strong option for digital professionals working from varied devices.
Mullvad appeals more to privacy-conscious workers in technical fields. While it lacks some ease-of-use features, its secure, minimalist design fits professions where control and transparency are crucial.
Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users
Mullvad offers unmatched transparency with its fixed monthly price and no long-term lock-in. Its ability to accept anonymous payments makes it a rare find for cost-conscious users who also value privacy.
Surfshark becomes very affordable on its two-year plan, offering great value if you’re comfortable with a long-term commitment. It provides more features and flexibility for the price when averaged out over time.
Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries
Surfshark is the better option for users in restricted regions due to its support for stealth protocols. Journalists, activists, and travelers benefit from these tools that help maintain free internet access under strict regimes.
Mullvad, while technically solid, avoids obfuscation features that would help in bypassing censorship. It’s ideal in open countries or for users who are not seeking to circumvent restrictions.
Conclusion
Surfshark and Mullvad represent two very different but equally commendable visions of what a VPN should be. Surfshark provides a rich feature set, intuitive apps, and excellent global performance, catering especially well to households, streamers, and users who value convenience and versatility.
Mullvad offers a streamlined, privacy-maximizing alternative. Its ethical approach, open-source commitment, and anonymous usage policies make it ideal for users who want simplicity and maximum control without giving up security.
For those looking for plug-and-play ease and comprehensive coverage for an entire household, solutions like Shellfire VPN and the Shellfire Box are worth considering. These alternatives excel in simplicity and smart home integration, offering dependable protection without complex configuration, perfect for families and users seeking seamless digital privacy.
