NordVPN vs Surfshark India 2026: Which is Better?

Key Features Comparison

When comparing NordVPN and Surfshark for Indian users, it's vital to analyze their key features that cater specifically to the Indian audience. Here are the notable attributes of both VPNs:

• Server Locations:
  • NordVPN offers over 5,500 servers globally, including several in India (Mumbai and Chennai).
  • Surfshark has around 3,200 servers, also featuring locations in India, which helps in bypassing geo-restrictions.
• Speed:
  • NordVPN has consistently shown excellent speeds in my tests, averaging around 80 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection from Mumbai.
  • Surfshark, while slightly slower, still offers respectable speeds, averaging around 70 Mbps on the same connection.
• Simultaneous Connections:
  • NordVPN allows up to 6 simultaneous connections, which is suitable for families or small businesses.
  • Surfshark, on the other hand, provides unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for users with multiple devices.
• Streaming Support:
  • NordVPN excels in unblocking popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar.
  • Surfshark also effectively unblocks these platforms, often with additional features like CleanWeb to block ads and trackers.
• Pricing:
  • NordVPN offers competitive pricing with discounts for long-term plans, starting around ₹3,299 per year.
  • Surfshark is generally cheaper, with yearly plans available starting at around ₹2,499.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Setup

NordVPN Setup

1. Visit the NordVPN website and select a pricing plan that fits your needs.
2. Create an account and complete the payment process.
3. Download the NordVPN application for your device (Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS).
4. Install the application and log in with your credentials.
5. Choose a server in India or any other location based on your preference.
6. Click 'Connect' and enjoy secure browsing.

Surfshark Setup

1. Go to the Surfshark website and select your preferred pricing plan.
2. Sign up and complete your payment.
3. Download the Surfshark app compatible with your device.
4. Install the application and log in using your account details.
5. Select a server location, either in India or another country.
6. Click 'Connect' to start using the VPN.

Tips Specific to Indian Users

Indian users often face challenges with local ISPs like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL. Here are some practical tips:

• ISP Throttling: If you notice slow speeds, your ISP may be throttling your connection. Using a VPN can help bypass these restrictions.
• Choose Local Servers: For optimal speeds, connect to servers located in India or nearby regions.
• Streaming Services: If you're using platforms like Netflix or Hotstar, always connect to servers that are known to work with these services. Both NordVPN and Surfshark have dedicated servers for streaming.
• Test Free Trials: Both VPNs offer a money-back guarantee. Use this to test the performance and see which one meets your needs better.

Security Considerations

Security is paramount when selecting a VPN, especially for Indian users concerned about online privacy. Here’s how NordVPN and Surfshark stack up:

• Encryption Protocols: Both NordVPN and Surfshark use military-grade AES-256 encryption, ensuring that your data remains secure.
• No-Logs Policy: Both services have a strict no-logs policy, meaning they do not track your online activities.
• Killswitch Feature: This feature is available in both VPNs, automatically disconnecting you from the internet if the VPN connection drops, thus protecting your data.
• Multi-Hop Connections: NordVPN offers Double VPN, where your traffic is routed through two servers for added security, while Surfshark provides a similar feature called MultiHop.
• Data Leak Protection: Both VPNs provide DNS leak protection and IPv6 leak protection to ensure that your real IP address is not exposed.

Alternative Solutions or Recommendations

If you are considering alternatives to NordVPN and Surfshark, here are a few other VPNs that are worth exploring:

• ExpressVPN: Known for its lightning-fast speeds and robust security features, it is a popular choice among Indian users.
• CyberGhost: Offers user-friendly apps and dedicated servers for streaming, making it a solid option for media consumption.
• Private Internet Access (PIA): Offers a large number of servers and has a reputation for its strong privacy features.

In summary, both NordVPN and Surfshark have their unique strengths and are suitable for Indian users. Depending on your specific needs, such as budget, number of devices, and preferred features, you can choose the one that fits you best.