NordVPN vs Surfshark India 2026: Which is Better?

Key Features Comparison

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 breakdown of the primary aspects:

Speed and Performance

• NordVPN: Known for its impressive speed, NordVPN uses the NordLynx protocol, which enhances performance significantly. Tests from Bangalore showed download speeds averaging around 150 Mbps.
• Surfshark: Surfshark also utilizes the WireGuard protocol, which resulted in similar performance metrics. Users in India reported download speeds averaging around 140 Mbps.

Server Availability

• NordVPN: Offers over 5,400 servers globally, with a strong presence in India (around 30 servers), which is beneficial for local users.
• Surfshark: Has over 3,200 servers worldwide, with around 15 servers in India. While fewer than NordVPN, it still provides ample options for users.

Pricing

• NordVPN: Monthly subscription starts at approximately ₹499, while long-term plans can drop the price to around ₹299 per month.
• Surfshark: More competitively priced, with monthly plans starting around ₹349, and long-term plans reduce it to about ₹199 per month.

Simultaneous Connections

• NordVPN: Allows up to 6 simultaneous connections.
• Surfshark: Offers unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a more flexible choice for families or users with multiple devices.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Setup

Setting up a VPN is crucial for privacy and security. Here’s how to install and configure both VPNs in India:

Installing NordVPN

1. Visit the NordVPN website and choose a subscription plan.
2. Download the NordVPN app compatible with your device (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).
3. Install the app and log in with your credentials.
4. Select a server from the Indian list for optimized local performance.
5. Click 'Connect' to start your secure browsing session.

Installing Surfshark

1. Go to the Surfshark website and select your subscription plan.
2. Download the Surfshark app suitable for your device.
3. Install the application and log in using your account details.
4. Choose a server, preferably in India for local access.
5. Hit 'Connect' to begin your secure connection.

Tips Specific to Indian Users

When using a VPN in India, there are specific considerations to keep in mind:

ISPs and Speed Optimization

• Both Jio and Airtel provide decent speeds, but BSNL users might experience slower performance due to limited infrastructure. Choose a server close to your location for better speeds.
• Consider using NordVPN's 'Obfuscated Servers' if you face throttling issues, especially on Vodafone, which may restrict VPN usage.

Streaming Services

• For users looking to access US Netflix or Amazon Prime, both VPNs excel. However, NordVPN has a dedicated IP option for streaming, which can bypass geo-restrictions more effectively.
• Surfshark also provides exceptional unblocking capabilities, making it suitable for streaming content from various platforms.

Security Considerations

Security is a fundamental aspect of any VPN service. Here’s how NordVPN and Surfshark stack up:

Encryption Standards

• NordVPN: Uses AES-256-GCM encryption, which is military-grade and virtually unbreakable.
• Surfshark: Also employs AES-256-GCM encryption, ensuring a high level of security for users.

No-Logs Policy

• NordVPN: Has undergone independent audits verifying its no-logs policy, ensuring user activities are not recorded.
• Surfshark: Similarly, has a strict no-logs policy and has also been audited, providing peace of mind for privacy-conscious users.

Additional Security Features

• NordVPN: Offers features like CyberSec for malware protection and Double VPN for added encryption.
• Surfshark: Provides CleanWeb to block ads and malware, as well as a built-in kill switch to prevent data leaks.

Alternative Solutions or Recommendations

If neither NordVPN nor Surfshark meets your needs, consider these alternatives:

• ExpressVPN: Known for its high speeds and extensive server network. However, it is more expensive compared to both NordVPN and Surfshark.
• CyberGhost: Offers a user-friendly interface and excellent streaming capabilities, making it a good alternative for casual users.
• Private Internet Access (PIA): Provides a robust feature set and competitive pricing, suitable for users focused on security.

Ultimately, the best choice between NordVPN and Surfshark will depend on your specific needs, such as budget, intended use (streaming vs. browsing), and the devices you plan to protect. Assessing these factors will help you make an informed decision.