Surfshark vs ExpressVPN India: Comparison

Are you a freelancer or online worker in India looking for a reliable VPN service to secure your online activities? Choosing the right VPN can be daunting, especially with so many options available. This article will help you understand the differences between Surfshark and ExpressVPN, focusing on what matters most for professionals working online in India.

Overview/Introduction

Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are popular VPN services that offer robust security features, making them essential for freelancers and online workers in India. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet connection, providing privacy and security, especially when using public Wi-Fi. This is crucial for maintaining confidentiality in client communications, safeguarding sensitive data, and accessing geo-restricted content for research or entertainment. India has seen a significant increase in online activities, especially post-pandemic, making a secure and reliable VPN a necessity for digital nomads, remote workers, and freelancers. With a VPN, you can bypass geo-restrictions, access international platforms, and ensure your online presence remains private.

Key Features

- **Security Protocols**: Both providers offer strong encryption standards (AES-256) and support for various protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2. - **No-Logs Policy**: Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN maintain a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your online activities remain private. - **Multi-Device Support**: Surfshark allows unlimited devices, while ExpressVPN supports up to 5 simultaneous connections. - **Kill Switch**: Both services offer a kill switch feature that disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, protecting your data. - **Split Tunneling**: Surfshark provides split tunneling, allowing you to choose which apps use the VPN, while ExpressVPN offers similar functionality on select platforms. - **Smart DNS**: Both VPNs offer Smart DNS for streaming, allowing you to access geo-restricted content on devices that do not support VPN apps. - **Customer Support**: 24/7 live chat support is available for both services.

Pricing

When considering pricing, it’s essential to factor in the value offered for the cost. Here’s a clear breakdown of the current pricing for Indian users (as of October 2023):

Plan	Surfshark (INR)	ExpressVPN (INR)
Monthly	599	1,900
6 Months	2,850 (475/month)	N/A
1 Year	2,490 (207/month)	8,400 (700/month)

Pros and Cons:

How to Get Started

Getting started with either VPN is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up your preferred service: 1. **Choose Your VPN**: Decide whether Surfshark or ExpressVPN suits your needs better. 2. **Visit the Official Website**: Go to the respective website. 3. **Select a Plan**: Choose a pricing plan that best fits your budget and requirements. 4. **Create an Account**: Sign up using your email address and create a password. 5. **Payment**: Choose a payment method (credit card, PayPal, or cryptocurrency) and complete the transaction. 6. **Download the App**: Download the VPN application for your device (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS). 7. **Install the App**: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the VPN application. 8. **Log In**: Open the app and log in with your credentials. 9. **Connect to a Server**: Choose a server location and connect to start browsing securely.

Tips for India Users

- **Local Payment Methods**: Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN accept Indian payment methods. Options include credit/debit cards, PayPal, and even cryptocurrency. Ensure your payment method is linked to an international transaction facility. - **Tax Implications**: Be aware of the GST (Goods and Services Tax) that may apply to your subscription. It’s advisable to keep the payment receipts for tax filing purposes. - **Network Stability**: Test different servers to find the best configurations for speed and connectivity, especially during peak hours when the internet may be congested.

Alternatives

If neither Surfshark nor ExpressVPN fits your needs, consider these alternatives: - **NordVPN**: Known for strong security features and a large server network, priced similarly to ExpressVPN. - **CyberGhost**: Offers user-friendly apps and competitive pricing but with a smaller server selection. - **Private Internet Access (PIA)**: Highly customizable settings and robust privacy features at a lower price point.

Comparison Table

Feature	Surfshark	ExpressVPN
Monthly Price	599	1,900
Server Locations	3200+ in 65 countries	3000+ in 94 countries
Simultaneous Connections	Unlimited	5
No-Logs Policy	Yes	Yes
Speed	Good	Excellent

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is using a VPN legal in India?

Yes, using a VPN is legal in India. However, it's essential to adhere to local laws and regulations regarding internet usage.

2. Can I use a VPN for streaming in India?

Yes, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN allow access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ Hotstar, bypassing geo-restrictions.

3. Will a VPN slow down my internet speed?

While a VPN may cause a slight decrease in speed due to encryption, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are known for maintaining good speed performance.

4. How do I cancel my VPN subscription?

You can cancel your subscription through your account settings on the VPN provider's website. Be sure to check their refund policy for any potential refund eligibility.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer excellent services tailored for freelancers and online workers in India. If your priority is budget and unlimited connections, Surfshark is an outstanding choice. However, if speed and a reputable track record are more important to you, ExpressVPN stands out as a premium option.