Surfshark vs ExpressVPN Comparison: Which is Better?

Quick Answer: Discover the ultimate showdown in our Surfshark vs ExpressVPN comparison. Uncover features, pricing, and performance to find your perfect VPN. Click now!

By Arjun Mehta Updated: January 2025 1 min read

Quick Answer

Compare the best VPNs for India side by side. See features, pricing, and performance tested from Mumbai.

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Surfshark vs ExpressVPN Comparison: Which is Better?

In the ever-evolving landscape of virtual private networks (VPNs), choosing the right service can be a daunting task. Two of the most popular options on the market today are Surfshark and ExpressVPN. Both services offer robust features that cater to users' needs for online security, privacy, and accessing geo-restricted content. In this section, we will delve into a detailed comparison of these two VPN giants to help you make an informed decision.

Features Overview

When evaluating VPN services, the features they offer play a critical role in determining their utility. Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN come equipped with an array of features designed to enhance your online experience.

Server Network: Surfshark boasts over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, while ExpressVPN has 3,000 servers across 94 countries. A larger server network can provide more options for bypassing geo-restrictions.
Simultaneous Connections: Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an excellent option for families or multiple devices. In contrast, ExpressVPN supports up to 5 simultaneous connections.
Privacy and Security: Both VPNs utilize strong encryption protocols like AES-256, ensuring your data is secure. They also offer features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and split tunneling.
No-Logs Policy: Both services adhere to strict no-logs policies, meaning they do not store any user activity data, which is crucial for maintaining privacy.

Performance and Speed

Performance is a crucial aspect when it comes to VPN usage, especially for streaming, gaming, and downloading large files. Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are known for their impressive speeds, but there are some distinctions worth noting.

Speed Tests: Users generally report slightly faster speeds with ExpressVPN, particularly on longer distances. However, Surfshark's speeds are also commendable, making it suitable for most online activities.
Streaming Capability: Both VPNs successfully bypass geo-restrictions on popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. ExpressVPN, however, has a slight edge with its Smart Location feature that optimizes your server choice for streaming.
Latency: For gamers, lower latency is crucial. ExpressVPN tends to have lower latency compared to Surfshark, which can enhance the gaming experience.

Pricing and Value for Money

Cost is often a deciding factor when choosing a VPN. Hereâs how Surfshark and ExpressVPN compare in terms of pricing:

Surfshark: Generally offers more affordable plans, with discounts available for longer subscriptions. The value it provides with unlimited connections makes it a great choice for users looking to secure multiple devices.
ExpressVPN: While it is more expensive than Surfshark, many users feel that the premium pricing is justified by its performance, server coverage, and customer support.
Free Trials and Money-Back Guarantees: Both providers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service risk-free. Surfshark also provides a free trial, which is beneficial for users wanting a quick test without any commitment.

Conclusion: Which is Better?

The choice between Surfshark and ExpressVPN largely depends on your specific needs and usage scenarios. If you prioritize cost-effectiveness and unlimited connections, Surfshark is an excellent option. On the other hand, if performance, speed, and a broader server network are your main concerns, ExpressVPN may be the better choice.

Ultimately, both VPN services excel in providing online security and privacy, making them suitable for users in India who wish to safeguard their online activities and access a world of content. Consider your personal requirements, conduct further research, and take advantage of the free trials to find the VPN that best meets your needs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing and Using a VPN in India

With the increasing importance of online privacy and security, choosing a VPN that suits your needs is essential. This guide provides practical steps for selecting and using a VPN in India, ensuring you make the most informed decision possible.

Step 1: Identifying Your Needs

Before diving into the world of VPNs, it's crucial to understand your specific needs. Consider the following:

Purpose: Are you looking to access blocked content, enhance your online security, or improve your streaming experience?
Devices: Which devices will you be using the VPN on? Ensure compatibility with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and routers.
Speed Requirements: If you plan to stream videos or play online games, you will need a VPN with high-speed performance.

Step 2: Comparing VPN Providers

With your needs in mind, it's time to compare popular VPN providers available in India, such as Surfshark and ExpressVPN. Consider the following factors:

Pricing: Look for providers that offer competitive rates. Surfshark typically offers plans starting at around ₹194 per month when billed annually, while ExpressVPN may be around ₹450 per month on an annual plan. Take advantage of any introductory offers or discounts.
Server Locations: Check if the VPN has servers in India and other locations you may want to access. More servers mean better performance and connectivity.
Privacy Policies: Review the provider’s privacy policy to ensure they have a strict no-logs policy, which is crucial for maintaining your anonymity online.

Step 3: Choosing a Payment Method

Once you have selected a VPN provider, it's time to make a payment. Here are some convenient options popular in India:

Credit/Debit Cards: Most VPNs accept major cards like Visa and Mastercard. Payments made through cards are straightforward and quick.
UPI: UPI has become increasingly popular in India. Some VPNs allow payments via UPI, making it easier to manage transactions directly from your bank account.
PayPal: If you prefer keeping your financial details private, using PayPal can be a good choice. Ensure that your chosen VPN accepts PayPal as a payment option.
Cryptocurrencies: For the tech-savvy, some VPNs accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, providing an extra layer of anonymity.

Step 4: Setting Up Your VPN

After purchasing your subscription, follow these steps to set up your VPN:

Download the VPN App: Go to the official website of your chosen VPN provider and download the application for your device. Ensure you are downloading from the official site to avoid malware.
Create an Account: Sign up using your email address and create a secure password.
Log In: Open the app and log in using your credentials.
Select a Server: Choose a server location. If you are accessing content specific to India, select an Indian server. For international content, select a server from the country of the content you wish to access.
Connect: Click the connect button to establish a secure connection. You should see a notification indicating that you are now connected.

Step 5: Testing Your VPN Connection

After connecting, it’s essential to test your VPN to ensure it’s working correctly:

IP Address Check: Use websites like WhatIsMyIP.com to verify that your IP address has changed to that of the VPN server.
Speed Test: Conduct a speed test using services like Speedtest.net to see if the VPN is maintaining a satisfactory speed for your needs.
Accessing Restricted Content: Try accessing geo-restricted content to confirm that the VPN is functioning as intended. For instance, access Netflix India to check if you can stream without issues.

Step 6: Regularly Update and Maintain Your VPN

To ensure optimal performance and security, regularly check for updates to your VPN software. Also, revisit your VPN provider's website to stay informed about any new features or changes to their service. This diligence can enhance your overall experience and security while using the internet.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently choose and set up a VPN that meets your needs in India. Don't wait any longer—protect your online privacy today!

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing and Setting Up a VPN in India

Choosing and setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can seem daunting, especially for those new to the technology. However, with this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to select the right VPN provider, set it up, and start enjoying a secure and unrestricted internet experience. Follow these actionable steps tailored specifically for users in India.

Step 1: Determine Your VPN Needs

Before diving into the world of VPNs, it's essential to understand what you need from one:

Privacy and Security: If your primary concern is online privacy and data security, look for providers with robust encryption protocols.
Streaming: For accessing Indian streaming services like Hotstar or global platforms such as Netflix, ensure your VPN supports the required servers.
Speed: If you plan on torrenting or gaming, opt for a VPN known for high-speed connections.

Step 2: Compare VPN Providers

In India, two popular VPN options are Surfshark and ExpressVPN. Here’s how to compare them:

Pricing: Surfshark offers plans starting at ₹199/month, while ExpressVPN starts around ₹450/month. Consider your budget and the features offered at each price point.
Server Locations: Check the number of servers available in India as well as globally. Both providers have extensive networks, but specific server performance can vary.
Customer Support: Look for providers that offer 24/7 customer support through live chat or phone, especially in the local language.

Step 3: Make Your Purchase

Once you've decided on a VPN provider, it’s time to make a purchase. Here’s how to do it:

Payment Methods: Most VPNs accept various payment methods. In India, you can use options like credit/debit cards, PayPal, or local wallets like Paytm and PhonePe. For example, with Surfshark, you can pay ₹199/month using a credit card or ₹1,990 for a 24-month plan, making it a more affordable choice in the long run.

Step 4: Download and Install the VPN App

After completing your purchase, follow these steps to download and install the VPN app:

Visit the official website of your selected VPN provider.
Download the app compatible with your device (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).
Follow the installation prompts. On Windows, for instance, you may need to grant permissions and agree to terms.

Step 5: Configure Your VPN Settings

Once the app is installed, it’s time to configure your settings:

Log In: Use the credentials you created during sign-up to log into the app.
Choose a Server: Select a server based on your needs (for streaming, choose a server in the same region as the service you are accessing).
Adjust Settings: If you are focused on security, enable features such as kill switch and DNS leak protection.

Step 6: Connect to the VPN

Now that everything is set up, it’s time to connect:

Click the “Connect” button in the app. You should see a notification indicating that you are now connected to the VPN.
Verify your connection by visiting a website like whatismyipaddress.com to check if your IP address has changed.

Step 7: Start Browsing Securely

With your VPN active, you can now browse the internet with enhanced security and privacy. Enjoy streaming shows, accessing blocked content, or simply surfing the web without worrying about prying eyes.

Step 8: Monitor Your VPN Usage

Keep an eye on your VPN usage and performance:

Note the connection speeds and whether there are any drops. If you notice slow speeds, consider switching servers.
Regularly check for software updates to ensure you have the latest security features.

By following these steps, you can easily set up a VPN that meets your needs in India. Taking this action will help you safeguard your online privacy and enjoy unrestricted access to content. Don’t wait any longer—get started with your VPN journey today!