NordVPN vs Surfshark – 2025 Comparison
1. Overview
NordVPN and Surfshark are two of the most popular VPN providers in 2025. Both offer strong security, fast speeds, and a wide range of features — but there are clear differences in pricing, extra tools, and suitability for smart home & IoT device protection.
This side-by-side comparison will help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
2. Key Specifications
| Feature | NordVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Servers & Locations | 6,200+ servers in 111 countries | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Max. Simultaneous Connections | 6 devices | Unlimited devices |
| Average Speed (WireGuard) | 960 Mbps | 950 Mbps |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, NordLynx (WireGuard) | OpenVPN, WireGuard |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES-256-GCM |
| Kill Switch | Yes (app & system-level) | Yes (app & system-level) |
| Ad & Tracker Blocker | Threat Protection | CleanWeb 2.0 |
| Split Tunneling | Yes (Windows, Android) | Yes (Windows, Android, macOS) |
| Smart DNS | Yes | Yes |
| Logging Policy | No-logs, PwC-audited | No-logs, Deloitte-audited |
| Router Support | Extensive guides & configs | Extensive guides & configs |
| Price (2-year plan) | $3.49/month | $2.49/month |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
3. Strengths for IoT & Smart Home Use
- NordLynx protocol for minimal latency — great for smart home cameras and voice assistants.
- Threat Protection stops malicious domains before they load.
- Wide server coverage makes it ideal if you travel or access devices remotely.
- Unlimited devices — protect every gadget in your home without extra cost.
- CleanWeb 2.0 blocks ads, trackers, and even suspicious IoT connections.
- Slightly cheaper long-term pricing, good for budget-conscious users.
4. When to Choose Which
- Choose NordVPN if: You want top speeds, advanced threat blocking, and a proven track record with multiple independent audits.
- Choose Surfshark if: You need unlimited device connections, lower pricing, and strong security features for a large IoT ecosystem.
5. Final Verdict
For smart home owners with multiple devices, Surfshark’s unlimited connections are unbeatable.
For power users who prioritize speed, security, and global server coverage, NordVPN remains a top choice.
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