NordVPN vs Surfshark India 2026: Which is Better?

Key Features of NordVPN and Surfshark

When choosing between NordVPN and Surfshark in India, it's essential to consider their key features, especially regarding speed, security, and usability. Here’s a detailed comparison based on my tests conducted from Kolkata.

1. Speed and Performance

• NordVPN: Known for its fast servers, NordVPN offers an extensive network with over 5,400 servers globally, including numerous server locations in India. During speed tests, I experienced an average download speed of 80 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
• Surfshark: Surfshark also provides impressive speeds with over 3,200 servers worldwide, including servers in India. The speed test results showed an average download speed of around 75 Mbps on the same connection.

2. Pricing

• NordVPN: NordVPN offers various pricing plans, with the most popular option being the 2-year plan at around ₹3,499 per year, which translates to approximately ₹291 per month. They frequently run promotions, so keep an eye out for discounts.
• Surfshark: Surfshark is generally more budget-friendly, with a 2-year plan costing about ₹1,999 per year, or just ₹166 per month. This makes it an appealing option for users looking for a cost-effective solution.

3. Device Compatibility

• NordVPN: Supports a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. It can also be installed on routers and smart TVs, providing complete home network protection.
• Surfshark: Similarly, Surfshark is compatible with various devices but stands out by allowing unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for families or users with multiple devices.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Setting Up

1. Installing NordVPN

• Visit the NordVPN website and select your desired plan.
• Create an account by providing your email address and selecting a payment method.
• Download the NordVPN application for your device (Windows, macOS, Android, etc.).
• Install the application and log in using your account credentials.
• Select a server location (preferably one in India for local content) and click ‘Connect’.

2. Installing Surfshark

• Visit the Surfshark website and choose your subscription plan.
• Fill in your email address and payment details to create an account.
• Download the Surfshark app for your device.
• Install the app and log in using your credentials.
• Pick a server and click on ‘Connect’ to start browsing securely.

Tips Specific to Indian Users

1. ISP Considerations

India's major ISPs, including Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL, have been known to throttle bandwidth during peak usage times. Using a VPN can help bypass these restrictions and improve your internet speed. Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer features like obfuscated servers, which can help you mask your VPN usage from your ISP.

2. Streaming Services

Indian users often subscribe to services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hotstar. Both VPNs allow you to access international libraries of these streaming services. However, NordVPN has a slight edge with its dedicated streaming servers that can help you bypass geo-restrictions.

3. Local Content Access

If you want to access Indian content while travelling abroad, both services allow you to connect to Indian servers easily. This way, you can enjoy regional content seamlessly regardless of your location.

Security Considerations

When it comes to security, both NordVPN and Surfshark have strong features, but there are differences worth noting:

• NordVPN: Utilizes military-grade AES-256 encryption, offers a kill switch, and has a strict no-logs policy. It also features CyberSec, which blocks ads and malware.
• Surfshark: Also employs AES-256 encryption and has a no-logs policy. Additionally, it includes features like CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and phishing attempts, enhancing your browsing security.

Both providers support the OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, providing good options for secure connections. However, NordVPN has additional features like Double VPN and Onion over VPN, offering extra layers of security.

Alternative Solutions or Recommendations

1. Other VPN Options

While NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent choices, there are other VPNs worth considering:

• ExpressVPN: Known for its speed and reliability, though it tends to be pricier than both NordVPN and Surfshark.
• CyberGhost: Offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of servers, making it another viable alternative.

2. Free VPNs

While free VPNs might seem appealing, they often lack the security and speed necessary for safe browsing. If you’re considering a free option, look for reputable providers like ProtonVPN or Windscribe, but be aware of their limitations.

Ultimately, the choice between NordVPN and Surfshark depends on your specific needs, budget, and usage preferences. Both have a lot to offer for Indian users, ensuring a secure and unrestricted internet experience.