Surfshark vs NordVPN speed Have you ever wondered which VPN service offers the best speed for your online activities in 2025? With so many options available, it’s hard to know which one delivers the best performance. Two of the most popular VPN services are Surfshark and NordVPN, but how do they compare when it comes to speed? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the speeds of both and help you decide which one is better for your browsing, streaming, and gaming needs.
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Speed Comparison: Surfshark vs NordVPN
When it comes to VPNs, speed is not only about how fast the connection is but also about stability and consistency. Let’s compare the two VPN services in terms of average speeds, latency, and performance under different circumstances.
Key Factors Affecting Speed
Before diving into the numbers, let’s look at some of the factors that can affect VPN speed:
- Server Locations: More server locations typically mean faster speeds due to less congestion.
- Protocol Used: The VPN protocol you use (OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard) can influence performance.
- Distance to Server: The further you are from the server, the higher the latency and the slower the connection may be.
- Network Congestion: A crowded server can reduce your speed.
Surfshark Speed Performance
Surfshark uses the WireGuard protocol, which is known for providing fast speeds while maintaining security. The service offers a good range of server locations, but let’s break down its actual performance.
Average Speed:
- Download Speed: 120 Mbps (approx.)
- Upload Speed: 30 Mbps (approx.)
- Ping: 20-40 ms
Surfshark’s performance is strong in countries with many server locations, though there can be slight dips in speed when connecting to servers that are further away.
NordVPN SpeeBothrformance
NordVPN also uses the WireGuard protocol, branded as NordLynx. This offers very competitive speeds, and the network is known for being highly reliable.
Average Speed:
- Download Speed: 130 Mbps (approx.)
- Upload Speed: 35 Mbps (approx.)
- Ping: 15-35 ms
NordVPN tends to deliver more consistent speeds, especially in regions with a dense network of servers.
Surfshark vs NordVPN Speed
| Feature | Surfshark | NordVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Download Speed | 120 Mbps (approx.) | 130 Mbps (approx.) |
| Upload Speed | 30 Mbps (approx.) | 35 Mbps (approx.) |
| Ping | 20-40 ms | 15-35 ms |
| Server Locations | 3,200+ | 5,400+ |
| Best for | Casual browsing, streaming | Heavy streaming, gaming |
Head-to-Head Speed Comparison
In terms of reliable performance, NordVPN typically outperforms Surfshark when comparing their speeds. NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol constantly provides quicker upload and download speeds, especially in areas with a high server density, which makes it perfect for online gaming and HD streaming. Although Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol provides reliable speeds, it occasionally experiences minor performance variations when connecting to faraway servers.
Nonetheless, both VPNs are fairly powerful for regular streaming and web browsing. Although NordVPN has a tiny advantage because to its better consistency and generally faster speeds, Surfshark still offers great performance for users seeking a less expensive solution with respectable speeds.
Server Locations and Network Infrastructure
With more than 5,400 servers dispersed around 60 countries, NordVPN has a distinct edge when it comes to server locations and network infrastructure. Its vast worldwide network helps guarantee quick, dependable connections even during busy periods. Users may more easily get around geo-restrictions and locate a nearby server for the fastest speed thanks to this wide selection of server locations. However, although not as extensive as NordVPN’s, Surfshark’s network of more than 3,200 servers in more than 100 countries is still very good.
While NordVPN’s larger infrastructure frequently offers better consistency and reduced latency in extremely congested places, Surfshark’s extensive server presence allows it to maintain good speeds across a range of regions. To further enhance the value of their networks, both providers additionally support dedicated servers for P2P sharing and other sophisticated use cases.
How to Improve VPN Speed on Both Services Surfshark vs NordVPN speed
Connecting to a server that is closer to your location geographically is the first step in increasing VPN speed on both Surfshark vs NordVPN. This lowers latency and speeds up connection rates. Additionally, performance can be greatly improved by moving to a quicker protocol, such as WireGuard (provided by both VPNs), as opposed to more antiquated ones like OpenVPN.
By allowing users to switch between protocols in their settings, Surfshark and NordVPN can both assist you in determining which is the quickest for your particular network. Avoiding periods of high usage is also advised because server congestion might cause speeds to lag; if this is happening, try moving to a server with fewer users. Finally, to get the most out of your VPN, make sure your device is configured for high-speed performance (e.g., by shutting off bandwidth-hogging apps) and that your internet connection is steady.
Tips for Maximizing VPN Speed Surfshark vs NordVPN speed
Here are some simple steps to ensure you get the best possible speed from your VPN:
Step 1: Choose the Closest Server
Connecting to a server that’s geographically closer to you can reduce latency and improve speeds.
Step 2: Switch to the Fastest Protocol
If your VPN supports multiple protocols (like WireGuard or NordLynx), switch to the one that offers the best performance.
Step 3: Avoid Peak Hours
Server congestion can slow down your VPN connection, so try to connect during times when fewer people are online.
Conclusion
Both Surfshark vs NordVPN offer impressive speeds in 2025. However, NordVPN edges out Surfshark slightly in terms of consistent speed and performance, especially for heavy users like gamers and streamers. On the other hand, Surfshark still provides excellent speed and a robust performance for everyday browsing and streaming.
Whether you choose Surfshark or NordVPN, both are solid choices, but if speed is your primary concern, NordVPN might just have the edge. Now you have a clearer idea of which VPN might work best for your needs.
FAQs
Which VPN is faster, Surfshark vs NordVPN?
NordVPN generally offers faster and more consistent speeds, particularly with its NordLynx protocol. However, Surfshark also provides strong speeds and performs well for everyday browsing and streaming, though it may experience slight speed fluctuations when connecting to distant servers.
Does Surfshark vs NordVPN have more server locations?
NordVPN has a larger network, with over 5,400 servers in 60+ countries. Surfshark, while smaller with around 3,200 servers, still offers a broad network in over 100 countries, making both services highly capable for bypassing geo-restrictions.
How can I improve VPN speeds on Surfshark or NordVPN?
To improve VPN speeds, try connecting to a server closer to your location, switching to a faster protocol like WireGuard, and avoiding peak usage times when servers are congested. Also, ensure your device is optimized for high-speed performance and that other bandwidth-heavy applications are closed.
Can I use Surfshark or NordVPN for streaming?
Both Surfshark vs NordVPN work well for streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. However, NordVPN may offer more consistent speeds for HD and 4K streaming, especially in regions with high server traffic, thanks to its larger server network.