NordVPN vs Surfshark India 2026: Which is Better?

Key Features Comparison: NordVPN vs Surfshark

Pricing

Pricing is a crucial factor for Indian users when choosing a VPN. Here's a breakdown:

• NordVPN: Offers a monthly plan, a 1-year plan, and a 2-year plan. As of 2026, the 2-year plan is the most cost-effective option, often including special deals during festivals.
• Surfshark: Similar pricing structure but tends to be slightly cheaper than NordVPN overall. Surfshark also offers great discounts for long-term subscriptions.

Speed and Performance

Speed is vital for streaming and browsing. In Pune, speed tests reveal:

• NordVPN: Consistently high speeds, making it ideal for HD streaming on platforms like Netflix and Prime Video.
• Surfshark: Offers competitive speeds, particularly with its NoBorders mode, which helps bypass geo-restrictions efficiently.

Server Network

Both VPNs offer extensive server networks, but there are some differences:

• NordVPN: Over 5000 servers in 60 countries, ensuring reliable connections even during peak hours.
• Surfshark: More than 3200 servers in 65 countries, including several in India, which can be beneficial for local browsing.

Device Compatibility

Both NordVPN and Surfshark support a wide array of devices:

• NordVPN: Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux, plus browser extensions.
• Surfshark: Also supports a wide range of devices and allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a great choice for families.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Setup

Setting Up NordVPN

1. Visit the NordVPN website and select your preferred plan.
2. Download the NordVPN application compatible with your device.
3. Install the application and log in with your account credentials.
4. Select a server location, preferably one close to India for optimal speed.
5. Click on 'Connect' to establish a secure VPN connection.

Setting Up Surfshark

1. Go to the Surfshark website and choose your subscription plan.
2. Download the Surfshark application for your device.
3. Install the app and sign in with your account details.
4. Select a server location that suits your needs, such as a nearby server for better performance.
5. Click on 'Connect' to start using Surfshark.

Tips for Indian Users

Dealing with Indian ISPs

Indian ISPs like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL may throttle your internet speeds when they detect VPN usage. Here are some tips:

• Consider using NordVPN’s Obfuscated Servers or Surfshark’s NoBorders mode to evade ISP throttling.
• Connect to servers in countries with less restrictive internet regulations for optimal performance.

Streaming Services

Both VPNs excel in unblocking popular streaming platforms:

• NordVPN: Known for its ability to bypass Netflix's geo-blocks and provide access to libraries across the globe.
• Surfshark: Also works seamlessly with platforms like Hulu and Disney+, making it an attractive option for entertainment enthusiasts.

Security Considerations

Encryption and Protocols

Security is a primary concern for VPN users. Both NordVPN and Surfshark offer robust encryption:

• NordVPN: Utilizes AES-256-GCM encryption with multiple security protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec.
• Surfshark: Also uses AES-256 encryption and supports IKEv2/IPsec, OpenVPN, and WireGuard protocols for enhanced security.

Privacy Policies

When it comes to privacy, both VPNs have a zero-logs policy:

• NordVPN: Based in Panama, which has no data retention laws, ensuring your browsing activities remain private.
• Surfshark: Based in the British Virgin Islands, also not subject to intrusive data retention laws.

Alternative Solutions or Recommendations

Other VPN Options

If you are still undecided between NordVPN and Surfshark, consider these alternatives:

• ExpressVPN: Renowned for its speed and reliability, but at a higher price point.
• CyberGhost: Offers a user-friendly interface and is also budget-friendly, making it a solid choice for beginners.

Choosing Based on Needs

Your choice between NordVPN and Surfshark ultimately depends on your specific needs:

• If you prioritize speed and reliability, NordVPN may be the better option.
• If you require unlimited devices and a budget-friendly option, Surfshark could be the perfect fit.