Surfshark vs. ProtonVPN: Comparing Which VPN Is Better?

Choosing between two top VPN services can be a difficult task, especially when they both offer a number of features that look similar at first glance. Surfshark and ProtonVPN are two of the top-rated services on the market, but each has its strengths and weaknesses. If you have a 150 Mbps connection and are looking for a VPN that will meet your expectations, you’ve come to the right place.

We will divide this article into clear sections and go through all the important aspects: speed, security, features, server locations, user-friendliness, pricing and support. This will make it easy to get an idea of which VPN is best for you.

1. Basic SurfShark vs Proton VPN comparison

It’s immediately apparent that Surfshark is more affordable and offers unlimited connections, making it ideal for families or users with multiple devices. ProtonVPN, on the other hand, boasts a larger number of servers and countries in which it has servers.

2. Speed: The key to smooth internet

A VPN affects the speed of your connection because the data has to go through an encryption process and through the provider’s server. This means that even with the best VPN, speeds will drop a bit. With a 150 Mbps connection, let’s see how both services performed in tests.

WireGuard protocol – speed first

WireGuard is an advanced protocol that minimizes speed loss while maintaining a high level of security. The test results are as follows:

Surfshark excels at downloads, making it ideal for streaming, gaming and downloading large files. ProtonVPN scores high on uploads, which will be appreciated by users who frequently upload content, such as to the cloud or social networks.

OpenVPN – a proven classic

OpenVPN is an older but still reliable protocol. Here too, we tested how both VPNs behave at 150 Mbps:

With OpenVPN, Surfshark again has a slight advantage, but both providers offer sufficient speed for common tasks like web browsing or video calling.

What’s the verdict on speed?

For users with a 150 Mbps connection, Surfshark is a better choice if you care about downloads and smooth streaming. ProtonVPN may be more interesting for those who need stable uploads, such as when collaborating online or sharing large files.

4. Security: how do Surfshark and ProtonVPN protect your data?

Security is essential for VPN services. What good is high speed if your personal data isn’t safe? Both Surfshark and ProtonVPN offer cutting-edge encryption technologies and other features that ensure your online activities remain private.

Encryption and protocols

Both VPNs use the highest encryption standard, AES-256, which is considered unbreakable. In addition, they offer the advanced WireGuard protocol as well as the reliable OpenVPN and IKEv2.

ProtonVPN offers a longer RSA encryption key (4096 bits), which increases security but also slightly reduces speed. Surfshark sticks to the standard 2048 bits, which is still sufficient for most users.

Kill Switch: failover protection

Kill Switch is a feature that disconnects you from the internet if the VPN suddenly stops working. This prevents your real IP address from being leaked. Both services offer this feature, and on all platforms.

Private DNS

Both VPNs run their own DNS servers, which means your queries aren’t exposed to third parties. This minimizes the risk of data leakage or DNS request manipulation.

4.1 Additional safety features

Both services also offer additional features that enhance security and privacy. Highlights include:

• Double VPN: Surfshark calls this feature MultiHop, while ProtonVPN refers to it as Secure Core. The data passes through two servers for added security.
• Tor Servers: ProtonVPN offers dedicated servers that allow you to connect to the Tor network, which is ideal for maximum anonymity. Surfshark does not offer this feature.
• Ad blocker: Both services can block ads and malware, which you’ll appreciate when browsing the web.

Who’s the winner in security?

If you’re looking for the ultimate level of protection, ProtonVPN may be a better choice thanks to its longer encryption keys and Tor servers.

On the other hand, Surfshark adds practical features like MultiHop and remains on the cutting edge of privacy.

5. Advanced Features: what extra features do both VPNs offer?

Modern VPNs aren’t just about encryption and anonymity. Many of them try to add features that make everyday use easier or offer added value. Surfshark and ProtonVPN are innovative in this regard, but their offerings differ significantly. Let’s take a look.

Overview of key features

Details of Surfshark features

1. CleanWeb – Ad and Malware Blocker: Surfshark blocks ads, trackers and malware at the VPN level. This means that you won’t see annoying ads while browsing the internet, and your page load speed will improve.
2. Cookie blocker: A feature that eliminates annoying pop-ups asking you to accept cookies. You’ll appreciate this feature when you’re surfing every day.
3. VPN Pause: If you need to disable your VPN for a while (for example, to access local services), Surfshark allows you to pause for 5, 30, or 120 minutes. After the time is up, the VPN will automatically reactivate.
4. GPS spoofing (Android only): a great feature that changes your GPS location. It’s useful for apps like Google Maps or games that depend on location.
5. IP Rotator: automatic rotation of IP addresses within one location every 5-10 minutes. This feature makes it difficult to monitor your online behavior.

Details of ProtonVPN features

1. NetShield – Ad and Malware Blocker: ProtonVPN offers a similar feature to Surfshark that blocks unwanted ads and protects you from malicious sites.
2. Tor Servers: ProtonVPN allows you to connect to the Tor network without having to download additional software. This feature is ideal for maximum anonymity and access to “onion” sites.
3. Secure Core – Double VPN: Data is routed through servers in countries with strict privacy protections (e.g. Switzerland, Iceland), providing an extra layer of security.
4. VPN Accelerator: a feature that optimizes the speed of VPN connections, especially on remote servers. To je ide
5. Ideal for users in areas with limited infrastructure.

Who wins in the features category?

Surfshark focuses on comfort and practicality. Features such as cookie blocking, GPS spoofing or IP rotator make it a great choice for casual users. ProtonVPN, on the other hand, relies on anonymity and offers Tor servers or Secure Core for those who want maximum protection.

6. Server infrastructure: where and how many servers will both VPNs offer?

The number and location of servers is one of the key factors when choosing a VPN. The larger the network of servers, the lower the likelihood of congestion. It also increases the chances of choosing a server near your location, which directly affects the speed and stability of your connection.

Server Network Comparison

Differences between Surfshark and ProtonVPN

1. Number of servers
   ProtonVPN clearly leads with more than 10,000 servers compared to SurfShark’s 3,200 servers. This advantage is especially noticeable in areas with a high concentration of users, where server congestion is common.
2. Country coverage
   ProtonVPN covers more countries (118 vs. 100). This expanded network is ideal for travelers or users who need access to regionally restricted content.
3. Regional coveragePolylang
   • Europe and Asia: ProtonVPN offers wider coverage, especially in Europe and Asia, which is key for users in these densely populated areas.
   • Americas and Middle East: ProtonVPN has a slightly better server distribution here, ensuring a stable connection even in less traditional destinations.

Servers in limited countries

Both providers focus on solutions for users in countries with strict censorship (e.g. China, Iran, Russia):

• Surfshark: NoBorders detects restricted networks and automatically connects you to servers that bypass these restrictions.
• ProtonVPN: It uses the Stealth VPN protocol and alternative routing, allowing you to bypass even the strictest forms of censorship.

Who wins in server infrastructure?

• If you need a larger selection of servers, ProtonVPN is the obvious choice thanks to its extensive network.
• However, Surfshark is better suited for users looking for more flexibility in country selection and optimised censorship bypassing features.

The choice depends on your priorities: the width of the server network or specific features.

7. User-friendliness: how easy are they to work with?

A VPN must not only be fast and secure, but also easy to use. For the average user, it is crucial that the app is intuitive and supports all the necessary platforms.

Platform and device compatibility

Surfshark also has support for FireTV and Smart DNS, making it easy to use on smart TVs and devices that don’t directly support VPNs.

User interface

• Surfshark: It offers a simple interface that is available in both dark and light modes. It allows quick connection to the server and easy management of features.
• ProtonVPN: Includes an interactive map with server locations, which is visually appealing, but some may find it less clear. Lacks a light mode.

User-friendliness verdict

Surfshark is more user-friendly thanks to wider compatibility and a simpler interface. ProtonVPN will appeal to more tech-oriented users who appreciate details like the server map.

8. Pricing and Plans: which VPN offers the best value?

Price often plays a decisive role when choosing a VPN. Both Surfshark and ProtonVPN offer different subscription rates, with a longer commitment usually meaning a lower monthly rate. Let’s take a look at a price comparison and what you get for your money.

Comparison of price plans

Surfshark is significantly cheaper on longer plans, making it an attractive option for users who plan to use VPNs for the long term. Conversely, ProtonVPN has a cheaper monthly plan, which can be beneficial for short-term use.

Added values

• Surfshark One: For an additional fee, Surfshark offers the “One” package, which includes
  • Antivirus to protect your device from viruses.
  • Surfshark Alert to notify you of personal data leaks.
  • Surfshark Search, an ad-free search engine.
• ProtonVPN Plus: ProtonVPN gives you access to faster speeds, more servers, and advanced features like Secure Core and Tor servers in its “Plus” plan.

Which plan works out better?

If you’re looking for a VPN for long-term use, Surfshark offers the best value for money. On the other hand, ProtonVPN may be appealing to users who want top-notch anonymity and don’t mind the higher price tag.

9. Customer support: who is there for you 24/7?

Customer support is an important factor, especially if you encounter technical problems or need a quick solution.

Differences in access to support

• Surfshark: It offers live chat 24/7, which is a fast and convenient solution for most problems. It also has an extensive knowledge base and video tutorials on its YouTube channel.
• ProtonVPN: It doesn’t have live chat, so troubleshooting can take longer because you’re reliant on email support or searching for answers yourself.

Verdict in customer support

Surfshark is the clear winner with live chat offering instant help. ProtonVPN is reliable, but the lack of a fast support channel puts it at a disadvantage.

10. Final Verdict: Which VPN is better for you? SurfShark or Proton VPN?

Both VPNs have their merits, and the choice depends on your priorities:

• Select Surfshark if:
  • Looking for an affordable VPN for long-term use.
  • You want unlimited connections and an easy-to-use interface.
  • You need features like GPS spoofing, IP address rotation or cookie blocking.
• Select ProtonVPN if:
  • You want maximum anonymity and security with features like Secure Core and Tor servers.
  • You have short-term needs and prefer a cheaper monthly plan.
  • You need a higher number of servers or are located in regions with limited internet access.

I hope this overview has helped you make the right decision. Whichever service you choose, both will offer solid performance and security.