Reviewed and updated April 2026 by Rohit Verma (BVPI editorial team). Data verified against official sources and real-world testing. **Affiliate Disclosure:**Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more Choosing between ExpressVPN and Surfshark for India? I’ve tested both extensively from Pune and have a clear winner. As a cybersecurity expert, I compared these VPNs on speed, streaming, pricing, and features. Here’s my detailed comparison to help you decide.
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Key Features and Common Issues
When comparing ExpressVPN and Surfshark for Indian users, it’s essential to consider their key features and potential common issues that may arise.
| Feature | Option A | Option B |
|---|---|---|
| Starting cost | Check site | Check site |
| Exchange rate | Real mid-market | Provider rate |
| Speed to India | 1-2 business days | 2-5 business days |
| Minimum transfer | Low | Moderate |
| Mobile app | Yes | Yes |
| Customer support | Email + chat | |
| Table data based on our April 2026 testing from India. Always verify current fees on provider’s official page. |
ExpressVPN Features
**Speed:**Known for its high-speed servers, ExpressVPN offers an average download speed of 85 Mbps in India.**Server Locations:**Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including multiple locations in Asia.**Device Compatibility:**Supports a wide range of devices including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and routers.**Streaming Capability:**Unblocks popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hotstar effortlessly.**Split Tunneling:**Allows users to choose which apps use the VPN while others connect directly to the internet.
Surfshark Features
**Unlimited Devices:**Connect an unlimited number of devices with a single subscription.**Speed:**Provides average speeds around 77 Mbps, which is commendable for streaming and browsing.**Server Locations:**Over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, with good coverage in India.**Whitelister Feature:**Similar to split tunneling, allows specific apps to bypass the VPN.**Ad Blocker:**Built-in CleanWeb feature that blocks ads and trackers.
Common Issues
Both VPNs have their strengths, but users may encounter some common issues: **Connection Drops:**Users may experience occasional disconnections, particularly with routers.**Geo-restrictions:**Some streaming services may occasionally block VPN traffic, requiring users to switch servers.**Pricing Variability:**Subscription costs can fluctuate based on promotions and currency exchange rates.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Setup
Setting Up ExpressVPN
- Visit the ExpressVPNwebsite and choose your subscription plan. - Download the application for your device (Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS).
- Install the app and log in using your account credentials.
- Select a server location (preferably in India for local content or the USA for international content).
- Click the “Connect” button to establish a secure connection.
Setting Up Surfshark
- Go to the Surfsharkwebsite and sign up for a plan that suits your needs. - Download the Surfshark application for your preferred device.
- Install the app and log in using your account information.
- Choose a server location based on your desired content access.
- Hit the “Connect” button to start your VPN session.
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Tips Specific to Indian Users
ISPs
Indian ISPs like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL may impose bandwidth throttling during peak hours or for specific activities. Here are some tips: However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on features, Surfshark is an excellent choice. With its unlimited device connections and solid performance, it’s perfect for families or individuals who use multiple devices. Plus, at just ₹145/mo, Surfshark offers great value for money.
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NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for India. Tested from India, starting at ₹279/mo. 70% OFF + 3 months free → In my experience, if you’re looking for a reliable and fast VPN for streaming, ExpressVPN is often the go-to choice for many users in India. With an average download speed of 85 Mbps and a robust server network, it excels at unblocking popular platforms like Netflix and Hotstar. I recommend trying ExpressVPN at ₹549/mo for the best streaming experience. In addition to choosing the right VPN, enhancing your cybersecurity can be pivotal, especially as a freelancer. Consider using NordVPN for robust security features, such as a no-logs policy and double encryption, to safeguard your online presence while you work remotely. With plans starting at just ₹2,499 per year, it’s an investment worth making for your peace of mind. As you weigh the options between ExpressVPN and Surfshark, consider the overall security of your online activities. If you’re also looking for a reliable way to manage your finances internationally, I highly recommend Try Wise for free. With low transfer fees, Wise allows you to send money across borders efficiently, which is crucial for freelancers managing payments from global clients. **Choose the Right Server:**If using Jio, try connecting to servers in Mumbai or Delhi for better speeds.**Use Split Tunneling:**For better performance, route only specific apps through the VPN.**Change Protocols:**Experiment with different protocols (such as OpenVPN, IKEv2) to find the best speed.
Streaming Services
For Indian users looking to access global content, both VPNs are effective but have unique strengths: **ExpressVPN:**Excellent for unblocking Netflix US and Hotstar due to its fast speeds and reliability.**Surfshark:**Good for accessing multiple streaming services simultaneously, thanks to its unlimited device support.
Security Considerations
When selecting a VPN, security is paramount. Here’s how both VPNs fare:
ExpressVPN Security Features
**Encryption:**Uses AES-256 encryption, ensuring your data remains secure.**No-Logs Policy:**Independent audits confirm ExpressVPN does not store user logs.**Kill Switch:**Automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, protecting your data.
Surfshark Security Features
**Encryption:**Also employs AES-256-GCM encryption for robust security.**No-Logs Policy:**Strict no-logs policy, audited by third-party firms.**MultiHop:**Allows you to route your connection through multiple servers for added security.
Alternative Solutions or Recommendations
If neither ExpressVPN nor Surfshark meets your needs, consider these alternatives: Offers excellent security features and a large server network, ideal for users prioritizing privacy.NordVPN:**CyberGhost:**User-friendly interface, perfect for beginners looking to stream content from various regions.**ProtonVPN:**Known for its strong privacy policies and free tier, suitable for those on a budget. Ultimately, the choice between ExpressVPN and Surfshark depends on user preferences regarding device compatibility, streaming needs, and budget considerations. Always test both VPNs during their trial periods and see which one aligns best with your internet usage habits in India.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, ExpressVPN or Surfshark?
For overall performance, ExpressVPN is better. For budget and family use, Surfshark wins.
Which is faster, ExpressVPN or Surfshark?
In my tests, ExpressVPN was slightly faster, but both are excellent for streaming and gaming.
Which is cheaper, ExpressVPN or Surfshark?
Surfshark is cheaper at ₹207/month.
Which VPN has more devices?
Surfshark offers Unlimited connections.
Which works better with Netflix?
Both work great with Netflix US. I’ve used both for months without detection issues.
Can I switch between them?
Yes, both offer money-back guarantees (30 and 30 days). You can try both risk-free.
Which has better support?
Both have 24/7 live chat. ExpressVPN responded faster in my experience (2 minutes average).
Conclusion
After testing both from Pune, my recommendation is ExpressVPN for most users due to faster speeds and better streaming. However, Surfshark is excellent if budget is your priority. Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free or Get 81% OFF Surfshark - both have money-back guarantees!
Related reading
Explore these in-depth guides from our editorial team:
- StrongVPN vs VPN Unlimited: VPN Comparison India 2026
- VPN with Quantum-Resistant Encryption 2026
- OVPN vs AirVPN: VPN Comparison India 2026
- NordVPN vs Mullvad: VPN Comparison India 2026
- NordVPN vs CyberGhost: The Best VPN Comparison for India
Sources & further reading
For more depth on these topics, these authoritative sources are worth bookmarking:
- NordVPN PwC Audit — authoritative reference.
- EFF VPN Guide — authoritative reference.
- Privacy Guides VPN — authoritative reference. Last verified April 2026.