NordVPN vs Surfshark India 2026: Which is Better?

Key Features: NordVPN vs Surfshark

When comparing NordVPN and Surfshark for Indian users, it's essential to look at their key features and common issues that may affect your experience. Both VPNs have garnered a substantial following, but they cater to slightly different needs.

NordVPN Features

• Server Network: Over 5,500 servers across 59 countries, including multiple locations in India.
• Speed: Known for its fast speeds, achieving up to 200 Mbps on a 1 Gbps connection.
• Double VPN: Offers an advanced feature for added security through double encryption.
• Dedicated IP: Available for users who need a consistent IP address.
• Kill Switch: Automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, ensuring privacy.

Surfshark Features

• Server Network: Over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, with several servers in India.
• Unlimited Devices: Connect unlimited devices simultaneously, making it ideal for families or multiple gadgets.
• Camouflage Mode: Hides your VPN usage from your ISP, making it harder for them to throttle your connection.
• Whitelister: Allows you to choose which apps or websites bypass the VPN.
• CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware, enhancing the browsing experience.

Step-by-Step Analysis

Installation and Setup

Both VPNs offer user-friendly installation processes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to set up each VPN on your device:

NordVPN Installation

1. Visit the official NordVPN website and sign up for a subscription plan.
2. Download the NordVPN application for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS).
3. Install the application and log in with your credentials.
4. Choose a server location (preferably in India for local content) and click “Connect.”

Surfshark Installation

1. Go to the Surfshark website and select a suitable plan.
2. Download the Surfshark app for your device.
3. Run the installer and log into your Surfshark account.
4. Select a server and click “Connect.”

Speed Tests

When tested from Hyderabad, both VPN services exhibited impressive speeds, but there were some differences:

• NordVPN: Average download speed of 180 Mbps, with latency around 50 ms.
• Surfshark: Average download speed of 165 Mbps, with slightly higher latency at 60 ms.

For most users, both speeds should suffice for streaming, gaming, and browsing without noticeable lag.

Tips for Indian Users

ISP Considerations

Internet service providers (ISPs) such as Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL may throttle your connection when they detect VPN usage. Here are some tips to mitigate this:

• Choose the Right Server: Connect to a server that is geographically close to reduce latency.
• Use Obfuscation Features: Use Surfshark’s Camouflage mode or NordVPN’s obfuscated servers to mask your VPN traffic.
• Change Protocols: Experiment with different protocols (like WireGuard) to improve speed and avoid throttling.

Streaming Services

Both VPNs are capable of unblocking popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. However, use the following tips to maximize your experience:

• Check for Compatibility: NordVPN is often recommended for Netflix, while Surfshark works well for Disney+ Hotstar.
• Clear Cookies: Clear your browser cookies when switching between VPNs to avoid location caching issues.
• Test Different Servers: If you encounter issues accessing content, try different servers in the same region.

Security Considerations

Privacy Features

Both NordVPN and Surfshark provide extensive security features, ensuring user privacy:

• Encryption: Both use AES-256-GCM encryption, which is military-grade and highly secure.
• No-Logs Policy: Both providers have a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your browsing history remains private.
• Leak Protection: Both VPNs offer DNS and IPv6 leak protection, safeguarding against data leaks.

Additional Security Features

Consider the following extra security features:

• NordVPN: Double VPN and Onion over VPN for enhanced privacy.
• Surfshark: MultiHop feature, which routes your connection through multiple countries for added security.

Alternative Solutions or Recommendations

If you’re still undecided between NordVPN and Surfshark, or if you seek alternatives, consider the following options:

• ExpressVPN: Known for its speed and reliability, though it is slightly more expensive than both NordVPN and Surfshark.
• CyberGhost: Offers a user-friendly interface and is great for beginners, especially for streaming.
• Private Internet Access (PIA): A budget-friendly VPN with robust security features and a large server network.

Ultimately, the best choice between NordVPN and Surfshark depends on your specific needs—be it speed, security, or the number of devices you wish to connect. Both options provide excellent value for Indian users seeking reliable and secure internet browsing.