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Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Complete Comparison Guide for 2023
The following guide compares Surfshark vs ExpressVPN and breaks down all features of each service to determine which is better.
Two of the most popular VPN Providers available today, Surfshark and ExpressVPN have millions of users across the world.
TROYPOINT has selected Surfshark as our #1 VPN Provider which had many asking us to compare the service to ExpressVPN.
ExpressVPN is still a recommended VPN choice, currently sitting at #4 on our list of Best VPN Providers.
We will compare all aspects of these VPN services including pricing, speed, device compatibility, features, and more.
Many trust both Surfshark & ExpressVPN to protect and anonymize all of their internet-connected devices.
This includes streaming devices such as the Amazon Firestick, Fire TV, Android TV boxes, PCs, Macs, phones, tablets, and more.
For those new to VPNs, a virtual private network (VPN) will encrypt your connection to the Internet so that all of your activity is anonymous.
This means that Internet Service Providers, App Developers, and even the government cannot track or view your online status.
There are numerous factors to consider when determining which VPN is best for you and we cover all of them in this review of Surfshark vs ExpressVPN.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Features
In order to compare all aspects of Surfshark vs ExpressVPN, we registered for service with each.
Both of these providers have tons of features suited to various users which we list below.
Surfshark Highlights
- Zero Log Policy
- Fabulous Firestick and Android applications
- Unlimited simultaneous connections with one account
- Low introductory pricing with our Special Discount
- Fast download & upload speeds
- Working Kill Switch on Firestick, Fire TV, and Android TV devices
- Ad blocker and malware blocker
- Split Tunneling available
- Over 3,200 VPN servers in 100 countries across the world
- Geo-block prevention works on popular streaming apps like Netflix and Prime Video
- Provides popular VPN protocols
- Cooperative with Real-Debrid
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Customer Support
- Accepts Credit Card, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and Cryptocurrency
ExpressVPN Highlights
- Zero Log Policy
- Fast Download Speeds
- 160 VPN Server Locations in 94 countries
- Shared IP Addresses
- TrustedServer Technology
- Compatible VPN Apps for nearly any device
- Provides popular VPN protocols
- Cooperative with Real-Debrid
- Network Kill Switch on Various Devices
- Split Tunneling
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 24/7 customer support
- Accepts PayPal, Bitcoin, and all major credit/debit cards
Below you will find a detailed review of the most important features of both Surfshark and ExpressVPN.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Speed
The first thing we wanted to look at when comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN is speed.
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This is vital to cord-cutters who use streaming devices including the Amazon Firestick and more.
Surfshark and Express are both touted as extremely fast VPNs with thousands of server options available.
We put this to the test to see just how fast these services are on both a Fire TV Stick and a Windows PC.
In this guide, we used the Analiti Speed Test which is available in all app stores including Amazon & Google Play.
The following speed test was conducted on a 500 Mbps max Internet plan. Â
Wireless tests were conducted through ASUS AC3100 Router which is approximately 20 feet away from the device.
Firestick VPN Speed Tests
After installing both VPN apps on our Firestick, we ran a few speed tests for comparison purposes.
As mentioned previously, we used Analitit Speed Test and quick-connected to the server located within the USA by default.
Surfshark Atlanta Server
Wi-Fi: 210 Mpbs download & 153 Mbps upload
Below is the same speed test while using ExpressVPN with their Atlanta based server.
ExpressVPN Atlanta Server
Wi-Fi: 228 Mbps download & 86 Mbps upload
As you can see, both Services provided extremely fast download & upload speeds.
However, the ExpressVPN Server was a bit faster than Surfshark on a Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
What’s important to note here is just how fast both of these VPNs are on a streaming device such as the Amazon Firestick!
Windows VPN Speed Tests
We also wanted to look at VPN speed test results on a Windows PC between the two providers.
Surfshark Atlanta Server
Wi-Fi:Â 212 Mbps download & 288 Mbps upload
ExpressVPN Atlanta Server
Wi-Fi: 234 Mbps download & 286 Mbps upload
Similar to the test on firestick, Express was a touch faster than Surfshark when comparing speeds.
Zero-Log Policy
One of the first topics to consider when comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN or any other VPN service is their no logs policy
Both Surfshark & Express offer strict no-log retention policies which means user data is never logged or saved.
Surfshark is located in the Netherlands which does not enforce logging policies while ExpressVPN is located in the Virgin Islands which offers the same policies.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN Pricing
Oftentimes, those searching for a VPN Provider are looking for an affordable option that offers all features needed.
This is no different when comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN as these are two of the most popular Services available.
Free VPNs oftentimes come with a catch therefore we never recommend using a free VPN to protect your privacy.
Many free VPN Companies sell user data to 3rd party purchasers which eliminates the purpose of a VPN completely.
STAY AWAY FROM FREE VPNs.
VPNs cost about as much as your daily cup of coffee for a month of service and are well worth the price.
Most VPN companies have varying prices so be sure to check the official website of each service for current pricing:
You will notice that Surfshark is relatively cheaper when comparing prices with ExpressVPN.
Note: These prices are always subject to change and you should refer to the official websites for current pricing
Surfshark Prices
- $2.39/month for 2-year plan
- $3.99/month for 1-year plan
- $12.95/month for 1-month plan
ExpressVPN Prices
- $6.67/month for 1-year plan
- $9.99/month for 6-month plan
- $12.95/month for 1-month plan
Those who purchase a long-term plan such as a 2-year plan with Surfshark will save tons of money when compared to the ExpressVPN plan.
If you are looking for a month-to-month option, the prices are relatively similar.
Device Connections
The number of device connections that a VPN offers is vital to consider when looking for a Provider.
This is especially true for those who use streaming devices along with computers, mobile devices, and more.
In today’s world, most households have upwards of 10 internet-connected devices at any given time.
Luckily, Surfshark has you covered in this aspect with UNLIMITED Connections with your subscription.
This means you will never have to worry about having one of your devices being unprotected when using Surfshark.
ExpressVPN lacks in this sense with only 5 simultaneous connections provided.
In our opinion, this is a huge miss from Express as most users have at least 5 devices in use most hours of the day.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Servers
It is important to consider Server numbers and locations when comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN.
The servers a VPN offers play a vital role in considering speed and much more.
The more server locations available, the more places you can set your “geo-location” to unlock content!
Here is a server breakdown for both Surfshark and ExpressVPN.
Surfshark Servers
- 3,200+ Servers
- 100 Countries
CLICK HERE for Surfshark VPN Complete Server List
ExpressVPN Servers
- 160 Locations
- 94 Countries
CLICK HERE for ExpressVPN Complete Server List
Unblocking Streaming Apps & Services
Another important factor to consider when comparing Surfshark vs ExprssVPN is their ability to unblock any geo-restrictions you may encounter with various streaming apps and services.
Many popular services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, BBC, and more have strict blockades in place for those outside of their geographic region.
Using a VPN to unblock these restrictions is one of the most popular uses a VPN provides.
Both Surfshark & ExpressVPN claim to unblock Netflix, however, we found this is not always the case.
After several tests, we found Surfshark worked perfectly with this service on nearly any device.
We even created a dedicated article that tested Surfshark with Netflix and found it worked very well with unblocking geo-restrictions!
Unfortunately, ExpressVPN did not provide the same results when connected to a UK Server to access international content.
Learn more about this test in our ExpressVPN Review.
Ads/Malware Blocking
Blocking ads and malware is another feature that some VPN services offer that usually set them apart from the rest.
ExpressVPN has a “Threat Manager” features that blocks app trackers for personalized ads and more.
However, Surfshark provides users with their CleanWeb feature that does more than just block trackers.
This feature works perfectly on Firestick, Fire TV, and Android devices to entirely eliminate ads that accompany various apps & APKs!
The CleanWeb feature from Surfshark is one of the best aspects of this VPN and one of the reasons it is listed as TROYPOINT’s #1 VPN Provider.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN provide new customers with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
We strongly suggest taking advantage of this offer to test these services prior to making a full purchase.
This is the best way to compare Surfshark vs ExpressVPN for yourself and determine which one suits your needs!
If you do not like the service for any reason, simply contact customer support for a full refund.
Device Compatibility
Comparing device compatibility is another important factor to consider when searching various VPN Services.
Surfshark and ExpressVPN both have compatible applications for nearly any device you prefer.
This includes streaming devices such as the Amazon Firestick, Fire TV, and Android TV Boxes.
Mobile apps are also available and users can install them from most popular app stores.
We tested both applications on a Fire TV Stick 4K Max with screenshots which we pictured below.
The user interface on the Surfshark Application was much more pleasing to the eye and overall easier to use.
Use our detailed guides below to learn how to install and use both Surfshark & ExpressVPN on an Amazon Firestick.
Surfshark Application Screenshots
ExpressVPN Application Screenshots
The settings option within Surfshark’s Firestick app is full of various options that can increase your experience when connected.
Kill Switch
Enabling a kill switch on a VPN will disable your internet connection if your VPN is disconnected for any reason.
Unlike most VPN Providers, Surfshark offers a VPN Kill Switch on streaming devices such as Firestick, Fire TV, and Android TV.
This is a HUGE advantage for cord-cutters who use these devices with various streaming applications.
ExpressVPN offers a similar feature called “Network Lock” which is currently available on numerous devices including Fire TV & Android TV.
This option will “Block internet when unable to connect or reconnect to VPN” and is relatively close to a Kill Switch.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN Protocols
If you are new to the VPN scene, you likely have not heard of the different protocols typically available.
VPN Protocols provide different benefits that users can take advantage to get the most out of their service.
When comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN, it is important to look at the different protocol options that each offer.
ExpressVPN currently has the following protocols available:
- IKEv2
- OpenVPN
- L2TP
- Lightway
Surfshark currently has the following protocols available:
- WireGuard
- IKEv2
- OpenVPN
Real-Debrid Compatible
If you are a cord-cutter that uses Kodi or other apps/APKs for streaming, you have likely heard of real-debrid.
Using real-debrid is the best way enjoy a buffer-free experience for VOD content including Movies & TV Shows.
Most VPN Services are compatible with real-debrid however there are also a few that are not.
Luckily, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are listed as Cooperative on the real-debrid official website.
We did an in-depth report on using Surfshark with real-debrid which you can access below.
Does Surfshark Work With Real-Debrid?
Continue reading below for our final verdict between Surfshark vs ExpressVPN.
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Final Verdict
After a thorough comparison testing all features of each, we have a final verdict for Surfshark vs ExpressVPN.
Both of these VPN Providers work fabulously to ensure complete safety and anonymity online.
Here is a breakdown of Surfshark vs ExpressVPN:
Speed
Both of these are extremely fast VPNs, however, based on our tests, ExpressVPN was slightly faster on both Firestick & PC.
Advantage: ExpressVPN
Price
While month-to-month is relatively similar, if you get a long-term plan, Surfshark stands above in price comparison.
Advantage: Surfshark
Unblocking Streaming Apps & Services
After testing, we found Surfshark worked much better to unblock various apps & APKs with geographic restrictions.
Advantage: SurfsharkÂ
Protocols
ExpressVPN has more Protocol options, however, Surfshark offers a Wireguard Protocol which is likely the best protocol available today.
Advantage: Even
Servers
Surfshark currently offers more server options as well as more locations which gives it the advantage in this category.
Advantage: Surfshark
Device Connections
This one is a no-brainer. Because ExpressVPN only offers 5 devices to Surfshark’s unlimited, Surfshark gets the nod.
Advantage: Surfshark
Encryption & Log Policy
In our Surfshark vs ExpressVPN comparison we determined both have a strict no log policy which is an added layer of security for all users.
Advantage: Even
User Interface/Application
After extensive testing with both apps, it is clear to see that Surfshark has a much better interface and application design.
Advantage: Surfshark
Kill Switch
Surfshark’s high-quality interface provides an easy to use Kill Switch on Firestick & Android TV devices that works fabulously.
Advantage: Surfshark
Real-Debrid Compatibility
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are compatible VPNs that work great with Real-Debrid and other premium link services.
Advantage: Even
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN – Closing Thoughts
Many consider ExpressVPN to be a “Premium VPN Provider” due to its vast amount of features.
When comparing Surfshark vs ExpressVPN, it is clear to see that Surfshark has tons of valuable features as well.
Oftentimes, these work just as well if not better than ExpressVPN at a lower price.
This is the main reason TROYPOINT has Surfshark listed as our #1 VPN Provider.
Overall, we feel that Surfshark is the better service of the two VPNs.
However, ExpressVPN is still a quality VPN that works perfectly for those who wish to anonymize their online connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark better than ExpressVPN?
Our comparison guide above explains why Surfshark is a better VPN Provider than ExpressVPN.
Is Surfshark Cheaper than ExpressVPN?
Yes. Currently, Surfshark is cheaper than ExpressVPN when you purchase a long-term plan.
Is Surfshark Faster than ExpressVPN?
In our speed tests, ExpressVPN was slightly faster than ExpressVPN on both a Firestick and PC.
Does Surfshark or Express Offer Any Deals?
Yes, both VPN services offer special deals exclusive to TROYPOINT visitors that can be found in this guide.
Is there a better VPN than ExpressVPN?
VPN preferences vary therefore we suggest testing numerous VPNs to determine which service is best for you.
Is Surfshark a Good VPN Service?
Surfshark is a fabulous VPN Service with numerous features and an affordable price tag.
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