NordVPN
Speed & extrasExcellent performance with NordLynx and advanced tools like Meshnet and Threat Protection.
- WireGuard-based NordLynx for fast connections
- Audited no-logs + RAM-only servers
- Meshnet, Threat Protection, split tunneling
Latest Update
Updated for 2025
VPNs • Privacy • Streaming
Beginner & power-user friendly
Surfshark vs NordVPN vs ExpressVPN
We compared speed, privacy, streaming reliability, features, and value. Our pick: Surfshark for the best overall mix of price, unlimited devices, and strong performance.
Best overall VPN
Why we prefer Surfshark
- Excellent speed with WireGuard and reliable streaming access
- Unlimited device connections on every plan
- Strong privacy: independent audits & RAM-only servers
- Useful extras: CleanWeb ad/malware blocking, MultiHop & rotating IP
Heads-up: Want the most polished simplicity? ExpressVPN nails the UX. Need specialty extras like Meshnet and built-in tracker blocking? NordVPN is feature-packed.
At a glance
ExpressVPN
Best app experiencePremium VPN with a super-clean interface and consistently reliable streaming; great for users who want “it just works.”
- Lightway protocol for quick, stable connections
- Audited no-logs; RAM-only servers
- Higher price; limited device count vs Surfshark
Surfshark
Best overallTop pick for unbeatable value: unlimited device connections, strong privacy, and excellent WireGuard performance.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- WireGuard support; CleanWeb ad/malware blocking
- Audited no-logs; RAM-only servers
| What to compare | NordVPN | ExpressVPN | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary strength | Speed + advanced extras (Meshnet, Threat Protection) | Polished apps & reliable streaming | Best overall: value + unlimited devices + strong speeds |
| Protocols | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Privacy posture | Audited no-logs, RAM-only servers | Audited no-logs, RAM-only servers | Audited no-logs, RAM-only servers |
| Security features | Kill switch, Threat Protection, Meshnet, split tunneling | Kill switch, Threat Manager, split tunneling | Kill switch, CleanWeb, split tunneling, MultiHop, rotating IP |
| Streaming | Consistently unlocks major platforms | Excellent reliability for streaming | Consistently unlocks major platforms |
| Simultaneous connections | Generous device limit | Moderate device limit | Unlimited devices |
| Speed | Excellent with NordLynx | Very good with Lightway | Excellent with WireGuard |
| Support & apps | 24/7 chat • Apps for all major OS | 24/7 chat • Apps for all major OS | 24/7 chat • Apps for all major OS |
| Refund policy | 30-day money-back guarantee | 30-day money-back guarantee | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Best for | Power users who want speed & extras | Those who value simplicity & polish | Households & many devices on a budget |
Editorial stance: Want the most flexible, best-value option? Choose Surfshark. Prefer the simplest, most polished app? Start with ExpressVPN. Need advanced extras and specialty tools? Pick NordVPN.
Pick by use-case
Best overall value & flexibility
Unlimited devices, strong privacy, and excellent WireGuard performance.
Get SurfsharkCleanest app experience
ExpressVPN is perfect if you want a “set it and forget it” UI with reliable streaming.
See ExpressVPNPowerful extras
NordVPN’s Meshnet, Threat Protection, and rich feature set suit power users.
See NordVPNFAQ
What does a VPN do?
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a secure server, helping hide your IP address, protect your data on public Wi-Fi, and access content while traveling.
Will a VPN slow down my internet?
Any VPN adds a little overhead, but modern protocols like WireGuard, NordLynx, and Lightway keep speeds high for everyday browsing, streaming, and video calls.
Is using a VPN legal?
VPNs are legal in most countries. However, what you do online is still subject to local laws and the terms of the services you access. Always follow applicable regulations.
Which one should I choose?
Pick Surfshark for the best overall value and unlimited devices, NordVPN if you want advanced extras and top performance, and ExpressVPN if you value the most polished, simple experience.