ExpressVPN vs Surfshark (2026)
ExpressVPN charges a premium for polish and consistency; Surfshark undercuts on price while offering unlimited devices. Both unblock streaming reliably, but ExpressVPN still feels more plug-and-play on exotic platforms.
ExpressVPN
Blazing speeds, rock-solid security
9.8
Get Deal
Choose ExpressVPN if you:
- Want the simplest experience on routers, TVs, and consoles
- Prefer paying more for predictably stable apps
- Travel often and need quick reconnects on weak hotel Wi‑Fi
- Rely on human support that answers complex networking questions
Choose Surfshark if you:
- Need to cover every phone, laptop, and TV without device limits
- Want most of the same streaming ability for far less money
- Are comfortable tweaking settings for best performance
- Prefer long-term subscriptions under $3/month during promos
Bottom line
ExpressVPN is worth the premium when budget is flexible and you want the least hassle. Surfshark is the rational pick for families optimizing cost while still getting a premium feature set.
Frequently Asked Questions
ExpressVPN is faster in our tests, scoring 9.9/10 versus 9.5/10 for Surfshark. Both use WireGuard-class protocols.
Surfshark is cheaper on the annual plan at $3.99/month, versus $8.32/month for ExpressVPN.
Surfshark has 3,200 servers in 100 countries, compared to 3,000 servers for ExpressVPN.
ExpressVPN leads on streaming with a score of 9.7/10 versus 9.5/10 for Surfshark.
ExpressVPN scores 9.7/10 on privacy and has an independently audited no-logs policy, compared to 9.5/10 for Surfshark.
ExpressVPN scores 9.9/10 on ease of use versus 9.7/10 for Surfshark. Both offer one-tap connection apps for all major platforms.