Surfshark vs Proton VPN (2026): Budget vs Privacy
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Surfshark and Proton VPN. We tested both for speed, security, privacy, features, and value to help you choose the right VPN.
Quick Verdict
Surfshark4.6/5
Best for: budget, streaming, travel
$2.29–$15.45/mo
Proton VPN4.5/5
Best for: privacy, open-source, free-tier
Free–$9.99/mo
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Surfshark | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Price | $2.29–$15.45/mo | Free–$9.99/mo |
| Simultaneous Devices | Unlimited | 10 |
| Kill Switch | Yes | Yes |
| No-Logs Claim | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | Yes |
| Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
Strengths
Surfshark Excels At
Netherlands-based, unlimited simultaneous connections, CleanWeb ad-blocker, affordable plans.
Proton VPN Excels At
Switzerland-based, open-source apps, Secure Core routing, free tier available.
The Bottom Line
Both Surfshark and Proton VPN are excellent VPNs. Choose Surfshark if you prioritize budget. Choose Proton VPN if you prioritize privacy. Either way, you're getting a top-tier VPN with strong security and reliable performance.