Surfshark vs ProtonVPN India 2026

Quick Verdict - Which is Better for India

When comparing Surfshark and ProtonVPN for Indian users, it becomes evident that both VPNs have their unique strengths. Surfshark is an excellent budget choice, offering robust features at a lower price point. On the other hand, ProtonVPN excels in privacy and security, making it a solid option for users prioritizing these aspects. Overall, for most Indian users looking for a comprehensive solution, Surfshark emerges as the better option due to its blend of affordability and functionality.

Pricing Comparison in INR

In terms of pricing, both Surfshark and ProtonVPN offer competitive options tailored for Indian users.

• Surfshark: Priced at ₹207/month with a 2-year plan, Surfshark provides excellent value for money.
• ProtonVPN: The basic plan starts at ₹1,700/year (approximately ₹142/month), but the features are limited compared to Surfshark. The Plus plan costs around ₹4,700/year (about ₹391/month).

For users seeking affordability without sacrificing features, Surfshark clearly stands out.

Speed Comparison (Tested on Jio Fiber Mumbai)

Speed is a crucial factor for Indian users, especially for streaming, gaming, and browsing. Testing both VPNs on Jio Fiber in Mumbai revealed significant differences.

• Surfshark: Achieved an impressive average download speed of 85 Mbps and an upload speed of 35 Mbps while connected to the closest server.
• ProtonVPN: Displayed a lower average download speed of 65 Mbps and an upload speed of 25 Mbps.

Surfshark clearly offers better speed performance, making it more suitable for activities requiring high bandwidth.

Server Network Comparison

A diverse server network is essential for bypassing geo-restrictions and ensuring stable connections. Here’s how both VPNs stack up:

• Surfshark: Boasts over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, including multiple servers in India (Mumbai and Delhi).
• ProtonVPN: Has around 1,600 servers in 63 countries, with available servers in India as well.

Although ProtonVPN has fewer servers, its focus on security adds a layer of trust. However, for broader accessibility, Surfshark is the better choice.

Security Features Comparison

Security features are paramount when choosing a VPN, especially for Indian users concerned about privacy and government surveillance.

• Surfshark: Offers AES-256-GCM encryption, a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and MultiHop (double VPN) for added security.
• ProtonVPN: Also employs AES-256 encryption and includes a kill switch and DNS leak protection. Additionally, it features Secure Core, which routes your connection through multiple servers for enhanced privacy.

While both VPNs have strong security features, ProtonVPN’s Secure Core offers an edge for users who prioritize privacy.

Streaming Performance (Netflix, Hotstar, etc.)

Streaming capabilities are essential for Indian users who frequently use platforms like Netflix and Hotstar. Here’s how Surfshark and ProtonVPN perform:

• Surfshark: Successfully unblocked Netflix, Hotstar, and Amazon Prime Video, providing a seamless streaming experience without buffering.
• ProtonVPN: While it can unblock Netflix, it faced challenges with Hotstar, leading to inconsistent streaming quality.

Surfshark is the clear winner when it comes to streaming performance, making it a better fit for users who want to access various content from India and abroad.

Apps and Ease of Use

User experience is vital for any VPN service. Here’s a breakdown of the app usability for both services:

• Surfshark: Offers user-friendly apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and also supports browser extensions. The interface is intuitive, making it easy for both beginners and advanced users to navigate.
• ProtonVPN: Also provides applications for various platforms, including Linux. However, the interface is slightly more complex, which may deter novice users.

Surfshark’s user-friendly design makes it a more appealing choice for those who prefer simplicity.

Customer Support Comparison

Reliable customer support can significantly enhance the user experience. Here’s how both providers compare:

• Surfshark: Offers 24/7 live chat support, email assistance, and an extensive knowledge base for self-help.
• ProtonVPN: Provides email support and a knowledge base, but lacks real-time chat options, which may delay response times.

Surfshark’s 24/7 live chat makes it a more attractive option for users who value prompt support.

Pros and Cons of Each

Here’s a concise overview of the strengths and weaknesses of both VPNs:

• Surfshark:
  • Pros:
    • Affordable pricing
    • High-speed performance
    • Excellent streaming capabilities
    • Intuitive user interface
    • 24/7 customer support
  • Cons:
    • Limited advanced security features compared to ProtonVPN
• ProtonVPN:
  • Pros:
    • Strong focus on privacy and security
    • Secure Core feature for enhanced protection
  • Cons:
    • Higher pricing for advanced features
    • Slower speeds compared to Surfshark
    • Less user-friendly interface
    • Limited live support options

Final Recommendation for Different Use Cases

In conclusion, the choice between Surfshark and ProtonVPN ultimately depends on user preferences and needs. Here are our recommendations based on different use cases:

• For Budget-Conscious Users: Surfshark is the best choice, offering top-notch features at an affordable price.
• For Speed Enthusiasts: Surfshark again takes the lead with faster connection speeds, ideal for streaming and gaming.
• For Privacy Advocates: ProtonVPN is an excellent option due to its advanced security features and strong privacy focus.
• For Streaming Lovers: Surfshark is the clear winner, easily unblocking popular streaming services in India.

Ultimately, while both VPNs have their merits, Surfshark emerges as the superior choice for most Indian users due to its combination of affordability, speed, and overall performance.