Surfshark and ExpressVPN are two of the most recognized names in the VPN industry. Both promise top-tier privacy, strong security, and global access to content. However, when we compare their features side-by-side, important differences emerge that can influence which one is better suited for your needs.

This guide breaks down Surfshark and ExpressVPN by core features, security tools, device support, and usability — so you can make an informed choice.

1. Server Network and Locations

Surfshark

• 3,200+ servers in 100 countries

• RAM-only infrastructure (no data stored on hard drives)

• Specialty servers: Static IP and MultiHop for double VPN routing
  
  

ExpressVPN

• 3,000+ servers in 105 countries

• RAM-only TrustedServer technology

• All servers optimized for all use cases (no specialty list, but consistent performance)
  
  

Key difference: Surfshark offers more privacy-focused specialty server options, while ExpressVPN focuses on uniform performance across all servers.

2. Speed and Performance

Both VPNs are known for fast connections, but protocol choice plays a role.

• Surfshark supports WireGuard, which is one of the fastest modern protocols available. In our tests, nearby servers often reached 440–480 Mbps on a 500 Mbps line.

• ExpressVPN uses Lightway, its proprietary protocol built for speed and stability. It consistently delivered 400–460 Mbps in similar conditions.
  
  

Key difference: WireGuard in Surfshark sometimes edges out Lightway in raw speed, while Lightway is designed to maintain stability even on fluctuating networks.

3. Security Features

Both offer:

• AES-256 encryption

• Perfect Forward Secrecy

• Kill Switch

• Split tunneling (per-app or per-site)

• Private DNS on all servers
  
  

Surfshark extras:

• MultiHop double encryption

• CleanWeb ad, tracker, and malware blocker

• GPS spoofing (Android)

• Bypasser (custom split tunneling for apps/websites)
  
  

ExpressVPN extras:

• Threat Manager (blocks trackers and malicious domains)

• Obfuscation on all servers (no need to select a special mode)
  
  

Key difference: Surfshark gives more advanced privacy tools like MultiHop and CleanWeb, while ExpressVPN integrates obfuscation everywhere for simplicity.

4. Streaming and Geo-Unblocking

Both services excel at bypassing geo-blocks and work with Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

Surfshark

• Multiple servers per country for streaming access

• Works well for switching between different regional catalogs

• MultiHop can sometimes help with tricky platforms
  
  

ExpressVPN

• Consistently unblocks major services without trial-and-error server switching

• MediaStreamer Smart DNS for devices that can’t run VPN apps (e.g., Apple TV, consoles)
  
  

Key difference: Surfshark provides flexibility with more location choices, while ExpressVPN’s Smart DNS gives it an advantage for non-VPN-capable devices.

5. Torrenting Support

Surfshark

• P2P allowed on all servers

• Unlimited bandwidth

• Fast speeds with WireGuard
  
  

ExpressVPN

• P2P allowed on all servers

• Unlimited bandwidth

• Optimized for privacy rather than maximum speed
  
  

Key difference: Both fully support torrenting, but Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol tends to deliver higher speeds for large downloads.

6. Device Compatibility and Connections

Surfshark

• Unlimited simultaneous connections

• Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, smart TVs, Fire TV, and browsers

• Router configuration supported
  
  

ExpressVPN

• 8 simultaneous connections

• Similar device coverage including routers, plus Smart DNS for media devices
  
  

Key difference: Surfshark’s unlimited device policy is unmatched for households with many devices, while ExpressVPN’s Smart DNS gives it a small edge for specific streaming hardware.

7. Ease of Use

Surfshark

• Clean, minimal interface

• Quick access to advanced features

• Intuitive mobile and desktop apps
  
  

ExpressVPN

• Streamlined interface focused on one-click connections

• Slightly simpler for beginners, fewer menus to navigate
  
  

Key difference: ExpressVPN is better for users who want minimal setup, while Surfshark offers more options for those who like customization.

8. Pricing and Value

Surfshark

• Lower monthly cost on long-term plans (often under $2.50/month)

• 30-day money-back guarantee
  
  

ExpressVPN

• Higher monthly cost (often $8–$12/month)

• 30-day money-back guarantee
  
  

Key difference: Surfshark delivers more value for users who want to cover multiple devices at a low cost.