Surfshark VPN review 2025: What to know before subscribing

Surfshark VPN has emerged as one of the most talked-about services for online privacy and streaming in 2025, offering strong encryption, unlimited devices, and an affordable price point. But how does it actually perform in real-world use?

In this hands-on Surfshark VPN review 2025, you'll get:

• A quick overview of Surfshark’s background and mission
• A snapshot of key metrics: speed, server coverage, usability, and more
• A pros & cons breakdown based on real testing across devices
• Deep dives into performance, privacy, and streaming capabilities
• Details on pricing, refund policy, and available payment options

When I first installed Surfshark across my desktop and mobile devices, I was impressed by the seamless setup and instant access to geo-blocked platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. The clean interface and fast server switching stood out immediately.

Let’s dive in and see whether Surfshark truly delivers on its promises—and if it's the right VPN for your needs in 2025.

1. Surfshark VPN reviews: What is Surfshark VPN?

Let’s begin with a quick overview of what Surfshark VPN is and what it offers in 2025.

Surfshark VPN, launched in April 2018, has quickly grown into a leading service thanks to its aggressive feature roadmap and wallet-friendly pricing. Headquartered in Amsterdam (outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances). It operates over 3,200 RAM-only servers in more than 100 locations.

Under its “building the most beloved security products for everyone” mission, Surfshark promotes military-grade AES-256-GCM encryption, a fully audited no-logs policy, and unique tools like MultiHop (double-VPN), CleanWeb ad and malware blocker, Camouflage Mode, and NoBorders to bypass censorship.

Follow the tables below for a quick overview of Surfshark’s key metrics and ratings.

Who should choose Surfshark VPN?

• Streaming enthusiasts who need reliable unblocking of Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more
• Privacy-conscious users seeking an audited no-logs provider with advanced security features
• Families or small businesses looking to protect unlimited devices on a single subscription
• Budget-minded customers wanting top-tier encryption and features at an entry price under $3/month

2. My honest take on the pros and cons of Surfshark VPN

Here’s a side-by-side of the most important highlights, followed by detailed breakdowns.

2.2. Pros

Based on dozens of reviews for surfshark vpn and my own tests, these pros stood out most:

• Unlimited simultaneous connections
  I tested Surfshark on ten devices at once, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even my home router, and saw no performance drop.
  This makes Surfshark ideal for families or small offices that need to secure multiple devices without extra cost.
• Strong encryption and an audited no-logs policy
  Surfshark employs AES-256-GCM encryption, the gold standard recommended by CISA for robust security.
  Independent audits by Cure53 confirm that Surfshark keeps no user activity logs, reinforcing trust in its privacy claims.
• Reliable streaming unblocking
  During testing, Surfshark consistently bypassed geo-blocks on Netflix US, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.
  I also accessed region-locked content in Japan and Australia without any errors, making it great for streaming fans.

2.3. Cons

Despite its strengths, Surfshark has a few drawbacks worth noting:

• Variable speeds on distant servers
  Local servers averaged 250 Mbps (just a 12 % drop from my 285 Mbps baseline).
  However, connections to Asia and Oceania sometimes fell below 170 Mbps, which may impact HD streaming or gaming.
• Higher virtual server ratio
  Over 70 % of Surfshark’s 3,200+ servers are virtual instances, not physical hardware.
  In my latency tests, virtual servers added about 15 ms more delay versus purely physical networks.
• No dedicated static IP option
  Surfshark doesn’t offer dedicated IP addresses.
  If you need a consistent IP for corporate access or banking whitelists, you’ll have to look at other providers.

3. Key features breakdown: what I liked (and didn’t)

Before diving into each feature area, here’s a brief overview of the criteria I used: ease of use, security and privacy, speed and performance, server network, and streaming/torrenting capabilities. These represent the most common concerns in vpn and are what most users look for in a 2025 vpn choice.

3.1. Ease of use and compatibility

I installed Surfshark on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and a home router.

Installation on each platform took under two minutes, with an intuitive onboarding wizard guiding me through account setup and server selection.

The desktop and mobile apps share a consistent design, making it simple for beginners to connect with one click.

3.2. Security and privacy

Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption, the industry standard recommended by CISA for top-tier protection.

Supported protocols include WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, giving users flexibility between speed and stability.

The audited no-logs policy means Surfshark keeps zero activity records, confirmed by Cure53.

Additional features such as Kill Switch and DNS leak protection performed flawlessly in my tests—no IP or DNS leaks detected when I forcibly shut down the VPN connection.

To validate this, I ran DNS and WebRTC leak tests on three random servers using browserleaks.com and ipleak.net. All came back clean. I also manually toggled the Kill Switch on and off to verify that traffic was cut instantly when the VPN disconnected, which it did without fail.

3.3. Speed and performance

Using Ookla’s Speedtest at different times of day, I measured a baseline download of 285 Mbps.

• Local servers: averaged 250 Mbps (12 % drop)
• Europe to North America: averaged 180 Mbps (37 % drop)
• Asia to Oceania: averaged 165 Mbps (42 % drop)

Surfshark’s 10 Gbps backbone helped maintain stable connections, especially on nearby servers. However, long-distance links still showed expected drops due to latency and regional congestion.

Over the course of a week, I ran Surfshark through daily tasks including general browsing, HD and 4K video streaming, and large file downloads. On local servers, connection speeds closely matched what I saw in Speedtest—typically hovering between 240 and 260 Mbps, even during peak evening hours. That was more than enough for buffer-free Netflix playback and multi-gigabyte cloud backups.

I also tested casual gaming via a US server (Los Angeles). Ping remained between 30–40 ms with no jitter spikes or noticeable lag, making it suitable for most online play outside of competitive titles.

3.4. Server network

With 3,200+ RAM-only servers across 100+ locations, Surfshark offers broad geographic coverage.

RAM-only servers automatically wipe data on each reboot, enhancing privacy.

In practice, I connected reliably to servers in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America, with average latency under 80 ms on most routes.

3.5. Streaming and torrenting capabilities

Surfshark excelled at unblocking top platforms: Netflix US, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime were all accessible without error.

To test its unblocking strength, I streamed Netflix libraries from four countries - the US, the UK, Japan, and Canada- on both desktop and mobile apps. Surfshark passed all of them on the first try, even with subtitle options intact. BBC iPlayer and Hulu also worked flawlessly, while DAZN required switching to a less congested server.

P2P and torrenting are fully supported on dedicated servers, and I achieved 220 Mbps download speeds when seeding large files via qBittorrent.

The CleanWeb feature “blocks ads, trackers, and malware before they reach your device,” according to Surfshark, creating a smoother browsing and streaming experience.

4. Surfshark VPN pricing and plans: Is it worth the money?

Let’s examine Surfshark’s plan tiers, value proposition, and refund policy to see if it delivers bang for your buck.

4.1. Plan tiers and costs

Here’s a quick rundown of Surfshark’s subscription plans:

• Surfshark Starter

• • Full VPN suite: AES-256-GCM encryption, WireGuard/OpenVPN/IKEv2 protocols
  • Kill switch and leak protection (DNS, IPv6, WebRTC)
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections on all devices
  • 3,200+ RAM-only servers in 100+ locations
• Surfshark One: Everything in Starter, plus:

• Antivirus protection against malware and phishing
• Data breach alerts to notify you if your credentials appear in leaks
• Search: ad-free, privacy-focused search engine

• Surfshark One+: All One features, plus:

• Incogni data removal service to request personal data deletion from brokers

Note: This information was updated on 06/18/2025, including promotional prices.

4.2. Value for money analysis

For under $3 per month, you get top-tier encryption, unlimited simultaneous connections, and access to 3,200+ servers.

Compared to competitors, Surfshark often undercuts the market while matching or exceeding core features.

This makes it an excellent choice for budget-minded users who still demand high performance.

4.3. Money-back guarantee and refund policy

Surfshark offers a 30-day no-questions-asked money-back guarantee.

I personally signed up using the 2-year plan with a 30-day money-back guarantee. The checkout process was fast, and I appreciated the anonymous payment options like cryptocurrency and no requirement for real-name verification.

Then, on day 20, I requested a refund via live chat and received confirmation within minutes, with funds returned to my card in five business days.

4.4. Payment methods

Surfshark accepts major credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, and even cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for anonymous payment.

This range of options accommodates both convenience seekers and privacy purists.

5. How does Surfshark VPN compare to its competitors?

To put Surfshark’s performance into perspective, let’s see how it stacks up against two leading VPNs - NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

5.1. Why NordVPN and ExpressVPN are often considered

NordVPN and ExpressVPN are two of the most recognized names in the VPN space.

NordVPN boasts one of the largest physical server networks and an independently audited no-logs policy, while ExpressVPN is praised for its proprietary Lightway protocol and consistently high speeds.

Both are common alternatives when users evaluate Surfshark vpn review 2025 recommendations.

5.2. Comparison table

To help readers make an informed choice, I compared Surfshark with two of its closest competitors: NordVPN and ExpressVPN. This table summarizes key criteria, including performance, usability, and pricing, based on hands-on testing and vendor data as of 2025.

From these results, it’s clear that each VPN brings unique strengths to the table. Below are the key differentiators to keep in mind when choosing the right service for your needs.

• Value for money: Surfshark offers true unlimited connections at the lowest entry price, making it the budget leader.
• Network size: NordVPN’s large physical network gives it an edge in consistency, especially on less popular routes.
• Protocol innovation: ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol delivers marginally better global speed stability.
• Feature set: All three providers offer core features—AES-256 encryption, kill switch, and no-logs audits—but Surfshark’s CleanWeb and MultiHop give extra layers at no additional cost.

6. My final verdict: Should you choose Surfshark VPN in 2025?

After extensive testing and comparison, here’s my overall assessment of Surfshark VPN in 2025:

6.1. Summary of strengths and weaknesses

Here’s a summary of strengths and weaknesses:

Strengths

• Unlimited simultaneous connections across all devices
• Robust AES-256-GCM encryption with independent no-logs audit
• Reliable streaming, unblocking, and P2P support
• Extremely competitive pricing with full feature access

Weaknesses

• Speeds can drop significantly on very distant servers
• A high ratio of virtual servers may introduce marginal latency
• No dedicated static IP option for specialized use cases

6.2. What type of user would this VPN be best suited for

Surfshark is perfect for:

• Streaming enthusiasts who need to unblock multiple platforms on any device.
• Families or small offices requiring protection for unlimited simultaneous connections.
• Privacy-conscious users looking for audited no-logs assurance at a low cost.

6.3. Overall recommendation

In my day-to-day use, Surfshark has been my go-to VPN for streaming and general browsing.

If you value affordability, the freedom to protect every device in your household, and airtight privacy measures, Surfshark VPN remains one of the best choices in 2025.

While I’ve seen competitors edge ahead with slightly faster long-distance speeds or dedicated IP options, I consistently found Surfshark’s mix of unlimited connections, advanced features, and intuitive apps hit the sweet spot for most users, including my own setup at home and on the go.

7. FAQ about Surfshark VPN

Still on the fence? These FAQs provide expert-backed answers to all your Surfshark VPN questions.

7.1. Q1. Is Surfshark VPN safe?

A: Yes. Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption—the industry gold standard—and supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols. Its no-logs policy has been independently audited by Cure53, ensuring that no user activity or connection data is stored.

7.2. Q2. How many devices can I connect?

A: You can connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously on a single Surfshark subscription. This makes it one of the most flexible options for households, small businesses, and anyone with many gadgets to protect.

7.3. Q3. Does Surfshark work with Netflix?

A: Absolutely. In my testing, Surfshark reliably unblocked Netflix US, Netflix UK, and other regional libraries. It also worked seamlessly with Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, so you can stream your favorite shows without geo-restrictions.

7.4. Q4: Can Surfshark VPN be trusted?

A: Yes. Independent audits by Deloitte and Cure53 confirm Surfshark’s AES-256-GCM encryption and no-logs policy, and it participates in bug bounties and the VPN Trust Initiative.

7.5. Q5: Which is better, NordVPN or Surfshark?

• NordVPN
  • Network: 5,700+ physical servers for consistent global performance
  • Speed: NordLynx protocol often yields the fastest benchmarks
  • Extras: Threat Protection, Dark Web Monitor, password manager
• Surfshark
  • Value: Unlimited simultaneous connections at under $3/mo
  • Features: CleanWeb ad/malware blocker, MultiHop, Camouflage Mode
  • Flexibility: Bundles with antivirus, data alerts, and Incogni in One+

Recommendation:
Choose NordVPN for the largest physical network and peak speeds; choose Surfshark for unlimited devices, richer extras, and the best long-term value.

7.6. Q6: What is the best country to use on Surfshark?

Closest location: For lowest latency and highest speeds, connect to the server geographically nearest you.

United States (New York or Los Angeles): Top choice for unblocking Netflix US and Hulu.

United Kingdom (London): Best for streaming BBC iPlayer and UK-only content.

Singapore: Excellent stability and speed in Asia, ideal if you’re in Oceania or Southeast Asia.

8. Conclusion

After testing Surfshark VPN extensively across platforms and use cases, I can confidently say it holds its ground in 2025, especially for users who prioritize affordability without sacrificing core security and streaming features.

Top strengths:

• AES-256-GCM encryption, RAM-only servers, and an independent no-logs audit
• Seamless access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other geo-restricted platforms
• Unlimited simultaneous device connections, ideal for families or small teams

Minor drawbacks:

• Slight speed inconsistencies on long-distance servers
• Higher ratio of virtual servers in some regions
• No option for a dedicated or static IP address

Who should consider Surfshark:

• Streaming users looking to unlock international content
• Privacy-conscious individuals who want solid encryption and jurisdictional safety
• Households or small businesses seeking full device coverage under a single account

If you're looking for a reliable, fast, and budget-friendly VPN with proven real-world performance, Surfshark remains a strong contender in 2025.

Want to explore more options like Surfshark VPN review? Check out additional hands-on VPN reviews in Best VPN category at Safelyo, or feel free to share your experience or questions in the comments below. Your next secure connection may just start here.