Surfshark vs ExpressVPN — Full Comparison 2026
Last updated: February 2026 · Based on hands-on testing
Our Pick
🏆 Surfshark Wins
Surfshark wins for most users thanks to unlimited devices and dramatically lower pricing. ExpressVPN justifies its premium for users who want the absolute best app experience and Lightway speeds.
Surfshark
ExpressVPN
| Feature | Surfshark | ExpressVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 |
| Monthly Price | $15.45/mo | $12.95/mo |
| 2-Year Price | $2.19/mo | $6.67/mo |
| Download Speed | 880 Mbps | 920 Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 390 Mbps | 400 Mbps |
| Latency | 32ms | 25ms |
| Servers | 3,200+ | 3,000+ |
| Countries | 100 | 105 |
| Simultaneous Devices | Unlimited | 8 |
| Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Streaming | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer | Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer |
Speed Comparison
In our speed tests, Surfshark achieved download speeds of 880 Mbps while ExpressVPN reached 920 Mbps. Both VPNs were tested on a 1 Gbps connection from multiple locations. Surfshark had the edge in raw throughput, though both services deliver speeds that are more than adequate for streaming, gaming, and everyday browsing.
Latency is equally important, especially for gaming and video calls. Surfshark averaged 32ms while ExpressVPN came in at 25ms. Lower latency means more responsive connections, which matters for real-time applications.
Security & Privacy
Both Surfshark and ExpressVPN offer strong security foundations with AES-256 encryption and no-logs policies. Surfshark supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, while ExpressVPN offers Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2. Both include essential security features like kill switches and DNS leak protection.
Where they differ is in the extras. Surfshark offers features like Unlimited Devices, CleanWeb Ad Blocker, MultiHop, while ExpressVPN counters with Lightway Protocol, TrustedServer (RAM-only), Network Lock Kill Switch. These additional features can be the deciding factor depending on your specific needs.
Streaming
Streaming capability is a major differentiator between VPNs. Surfshark successfully unblocked Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, HBO Max in our testing. ExpressVPN worked with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, DAZN. Both are solid choices for streaming, though Surfshark was slightly more consistent across platforms.
Pricing & Value
Surfshark starts at $2.19/mo on the 2-year plan ($15.45/mo monthly), while ExpressVPN costs $6.67/mo for 2 years ($12.95/mo monthly). Both offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can try either risk-free.
Our Verdict
Surfshark wins for most users thanks to unlimited devices and dramatically lower pricing. ExpressVPN justifies its premium for users who want the absolute best app experience and Lightway speeds.
Ultimately, both Surfshark and ExpressVPN are excellent VPN services. Your choice should depend on which features matter most to you. If speed and server coverage are priorities, check the numbers above. If price is the deciding factor, compare the long-term plan costs. Either way, you're getting a quality VPN.