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 moreNordVPN 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.
Get 67% OFF NordVPN
The #1 VPN for India - Fast speeds, works with Netflix US, Hotstar & more Try NordVPN Risk-Free
NordVPN vs Surfshark India 2026: Which is Better?
Key Features and Common Issues
| 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. | ||
| Both NordVPN and Surfshark have carved out a reputation in the Indian VPN market, but they come with unique features that cater to different needs. Here’s a breakdown: | ||
| Known for its extensive server network, NordVPN boasts over 5,500 servers across 60 countries, including multiple locations in India. This allows for excellent speeds and reliability.NordVPN:**Surfshark:**Surfshark stands out for its unlimited device connections, allowing you to secure all your devices simultaneously. It has around 3,200 servers in 65 countries, including several in India.**Pricing:**NordVPN tends to be slightly more expensive but offers significant discounts for long-term subscriptions. Surfshark is generally more affordable, especially for users looking for a budget-friendly option.**Streaming Capabilities:**Both services are capable of bypassing geo-restrictions on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. However, performance may vary depending on the server used.**Customer Support:**Both VPNs offer 24/7 customer support through live chat and email. However, users have reported quicker responses from Surfshark’s support team. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Setup
Getting started with either NordVPN or Surfshark is straightforward. Here’s how to set them up from Pune:
NordVPN Setup Steps
- Visit the NordVPN website and select your preferred subscription plan.
- Download the NordVPN app for your device (Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS).
- Install the application and log in using your credentials.
- Select a server location (for Indian users, choose a local server for optimal speed).
- Click ‘Connect’ to establish a secure VPN connection.
Surfshark Setup Steps
- Go to the Surfshark website and choose a subscription plan that suits you.
- Download the Surfshark application compatible with your device.
- Install the app and log in with your Surfshark account.
- Choose a server location (for Indian servers, select one close to your physical location).
- Hit ‘Connect’ to activate the VPN.
Tips Specific to Indian Users
When using a VPN in India, it’s crucial to keep in mind the following tips for optimal performance and experience: **Choose Local Servers:**For better speed, select servers located in India or nearby. This will reduce latency and provide faster connections.**ISP Considerations:**Indian ISPs like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL sometimes throttle VPN traffic. If you experience slow speeds, try switching to different server protocols (like OpenVPN or IKEv2) to see which works best with your ISP.**Streaming Services:**If you’re using VPNs for streaming, make sure to connect to servers optimized for streaming. Both NordVPN and Surfshark have dedicated servers for this purpose.**Split Tunneling:**Consider using split tunneling features that allow you to choose which apps use the VPN connection. This is particularly useful if you need to access local services while using the VPN.
Security Considerations
Security is a critical aspect of any VPN service, especially for Indian users concerned about privacy. Here’s how NordVPN and Surfshark stack up: **Encryption:**Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption, which is military-grade and highly secure. This ensures that your data is protected from prying eyes.**No-Logs Policy:**NordVPN and Surfshark both adhere to a strict no-logs policy, meaning they do not store any user activity or connection logs. This is crucial for maintaining privacy.**Killswitch Feature:**Both services come with a killswitch that automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, ensuring your data remains protected.**DNS Leak Protection:**Both VPNs have DNS leak protection, which prevents third parties from accessing your browsing data.**Advanced Security Features:**NordVPN offers additional features like Double VPN and Onion over VPN for enhanced privacy. Surfshark provides features like Camouflage Mode, which hides the fact that you are using a VPN.
Alternative Solutions or Recommendations
If you’re still undecided between NordVPN and Surfshark, consider these alternative VPN services popular in India:
🔒 Our #1 VPN Recommendation
NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for India. Tested from India, starting at ₹279/mo. 70% OFF + 3 months free → **ExpressVPN:**Known for high-speed connections and reliable performance, ExpressVPN is a great option for streaming and general browsing, though it comes at a higher price point.**CyberGhost:**Offers user-friendly interfaces and dedicated servers for streaming, making it suitable for less tech-savvy users.**PIA (Private Internet Access):**A budget-friendly option with a good balance of features, though its server network is not as extensive as NordVPN or Surfshark. Ultimately, your choice between NordVPN and Surfshark will depend on your specific needs, budget, and usage patterns. Whether you prioritize speed, the number of devices, or security features, both VPNs provide robust solutions for Indian users.
Best Budget VPN: Surfshark
Unlimited devices for the whole family - Just ₹207/month Get 81% OFF Surfshark
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, NordVPN or Surfshark?
For overall performance, NordVPN is better. For budget and family use, Surfshark wins.
Which is faster, NordVPN or Surfshark?
In my tests, NordVPN was slightly faster, but both are excellent for streaming and gaming.
Which is cheaper, NordVPN 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. NordVPN responded faster in my experience (2 minutes average).
Get NordVPN — 70% OFF + 3 Months Free
Used by 15M+ users. 30-day money-back guarantee. Get Started Free →
Related reading
Explore these in-depth guides from our editorial team:
- Best VPN for Roblox in India 2026: Low Ping Guide
- Hide.me Not Working? Complete Fix Guide India 2026
- Best VPN for Pune Users 2026: Speed Tested
- IPVanish Gaming Guide India 2026
- Comparison Windscribe Hotspot Shield
Sources & further reading
For more depth on these topics, these authoritative sources are worth bookmarking:
- Google SEO Starter Guide — authoritative reference.
- Search Engine Journal — authoritative reference.
- Ahrefs Blog SEO — authoritative reference. Last verified April 2026.