ExpressVPN vs Surfshark: which should you choose?
Quick answer: ExpressVPN is built for streaming, while Surfshark suits budget. For most users Surfshark is the stronger default, but ExpressVPN can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case. Surfshark has the lower entry price.
If you're weighing ExpressVPN against Surfshark, the right answer depends on your priorities. Below we compare them on pricing, strengths and the use cases each one fits, then give a clear verdict.
Side-by-side
| ExpressVPN | Surfshark | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | VPN | VPN |
| What it's known for | Premium speeds, Lightway protocol, TrustedServer RAM-only infrastructure and strong unblocking reputation. | Unlimited simultaneous devices on one subscription, low long-term price and CleanWeb ad/tracker blocking. |
| Pricing | ~$6.67/mo on annual plan, ~$12.95/mo monthly | ~$2.19-2.99/mo on 2-year plan, ~$15.45/mo monthly |
| Best audience | Users who prioritise ease of use and reliable streaming and will pay a premium for it. | Budget-conscious users and large households needing to cover many devices at once. |
| Best for | streaming, ease-of-use | budget, families |
| Entry price | ~$6.67/mo | ~$2.19-2.99/mo |
| Biggest strength | Extensive independent audit record (KPMG, Cure53, PwC). | Unlimited devices is rare at this price point. |
| Main caveat | Premium pricing, among the most expensive mainstream VPNs. | Netherlands base sits within the Nine Eyes alliance. |
Features compared
Beyond the spec sheet, these are the capabilities that define each tool:
ExpressVPN key features
- Lightway protocol (open-source, audited) for fast low-latency connections
- TrustedServer technology: all servers run on RAM only, wiped on reboot
- Network Lock kill switch
- Threat Manager and ad/tracker blocking
Surfshark key features
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections on one subscription
- CleanWeb ad, tracker and malware-domain blocking
- MultiHop double-VPN routing
- Camouflage/obfuscation mode and NoBorders
Pricing tiers side by side
ExpressVPN plans
| Plan | Price | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| Annual plan | ~$6.67/mo | Billed yearly |
| Monthly | ~$12.95/mo |
Surfshark plans
| Plan | Price | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| 2-year plan | ~$2.19-2.99/mo | Billed upfront |
| Monthly | ~$15.45/mo |
Tiers compiled from the vendors' published plans and independent reviews; prices are approximate and change often, so confirm current figures (and your region's taxes) on each vendor's site.
Strengths compared
Where ExpressVPN wins
The most audited consumer VPN, with every server running diskless RAM-only via TrustedServer.
- Extensive independent audit record (KPMG, Cure53, PwC).
- Strong, consistent streaming unblocking.
That makes it the stronger pick for users who prioritise ease of use and reliable streaming and will pay a premium for it.
Where Surfshark wins
Unlimited simultaneous connections at a budget long-term price.
- Unlimited devices is rare at this price point.
- Very low long-term pricing.
That makes it the stronger pick for budget-conscious users and large households needing to cover many devices at once.
Verdict: choose by fit
Pick by fit rather than by an overall score.
- Choose ExpressVPN if you fit its core audience — users who prioritise ease of use and reliable streaming and will pay a premium for it.
- Choose Surfshark if you fit its core audience — budget-conscious users and large households needing to cover many devices at once.
FAQ
Is ExpressVPN better than Surfshark?
Surfshark is the stronger default for most users, but ExpressVPN can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case.
What is the main difference between ExpressVPN and Surfshark?
ExpressVPN is the most audited consumer VPN, with every server running diskless RAM-only via TrustedServer. Surfshark is unlimited simultaneous connections at a budget long-term price.
Which is cheaper, ExpressVPN or Surfshark?
Entry pricing differs: ExpressVPN starts at ~$6.67/mo, while Surfshark starts at ~$2.19-2.99/mo. Compare the tiers above against your usage.
Sources
Facts above are drawn from these independent reviews and the vendors' own pages for ExpressVPN and Surfshark: