Surfshark vs StrongVPN Which VPN service—Surfshark vs StrongVPN—offers the better value in 2025? Selecting the best virtual private network (VPN) has become more crucial for consumers looking to safeguard their data and preserve their anonymity online as the need for online privacy and security keeps rising. With their distinct features, cost structures, and performance capacities, Surfshark and StrongVPN have both made names for themselves in the VPN industry. In order to ascertain which VPN actually offers the best value for customers in 2025, we will compare the advantages and disadvantages of each service, looking at elements like speed, security protocols, server locations, and customer care.
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Surfshark vs StrongVPN at a glance
Both Surfshark vs StrongVPN are powerful VPNs, but they have different features and cater to slightly varied consumers. Surfshark has a very long list of features but is still exceptionally affordable.
For someone who just wants a no-frills VPN experience, StrongVPN is suitable for users looking for simplicity and solid basic protection.
- Surfshark VPN: Best for value seekers and feature enthusiasts
- StrongVPN: Best for simplified VPN usage
How do Surfshark vs StrongVPN compare?
| Max number of connected devices | SurfShark VPN | Strong VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Price | From $1.99/mo (billed every two years) | From $3.97/mo (billed annually) |
| Max # of connected devices | Unlimited | 12 |
| 24/7 customer support | Ok | Ok |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more |
| # of servers | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | 950+ servers in 30+ countries |
| VPN protocol | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2 | WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN, IPSec |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | OK | OK |
How we test and rate VPNs
To verify their claims, we put each VPN we review through standardized hands-on tests. In-depth third-party testing is part of this, as we compare our internet speeds while connected to several servers, look for DNS leaks, confirm that the kill switch is operational, and more. We also ensure that we can easily access well-known streaming services like Netflix and continue working on our daily tasks without any disruptions.
After testing is finished, our editorial rating is determined by considering important characteristics that you would anticipate from a high-quality product. To determine the final ranking out of five stars, we assign a weighted average to each VPN based on its pricing, server count, performance, security, and features.
Surfshark VPN pros and cons
With a two-year plan starting at just $1.99/month (paid every two years), Surfshark VPN provides outstanding value. With more than 3,200 servers spread across 100 nations, it offers dependable and quick connections everywhere.
Strong security protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, limitless simultaneous connections, and extra tools like CleanWeb for ad filtering and Alt ID for improved privacy are some of the noteworthy features.
Our speed tests show that Surfshark performs admirably, has little effect on internet speeds, and reliably unblocks well-known streaming services like Netflix.
However, some customers could be concerned about their privacy because Surfshark’s headquarters are located in the Netherlands, a member of the Nine Eyes intelligence-sharing agreement. Furthermore, even though it provides many security protections, certain more sophisticated options—like antivirus protection—cost extra.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Affordable pricing
- Extensive security features
Cons
- Headquartered in Nine Eyes alliance country
- Additional cost for antivirus and threat monitoring
StrongVPN pros and cons
StrongVPN is a reliable option for users seeking a straightforward VPN service without the extra complexities. Priced at $3.97/mo (billed annually) for an annual plan, it offers a network of 950+ servers in 30+ countries.
StrongVPN supports up to 12 simultaneous connections and utilizes robust encryption protocols, including WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. It performed well during our testing at maintaining internet speeds, and it successfully unblocked major streaming platforms like Netflix.
Pros
- Simple interface
- Wide device compatibility
- Reliable basic security features
Cons
- Limited advanced features
- More expensive than similar options
Payment options
StrongVPN and Surfshark both provide a range of payment choices, giving customers more privacy and freedom. For example, using cryptocurrencies to make payments can increase privacy.
An outline of each VPN’s payment methods may be found here.
Surfshark VPN payment options
- Credit or debit card
- PayPal
- Google Pay
- Amazon Pay
- Cryptocurrency through CoinGate (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more)
StrongVPN payment options
- Credit or debit card
- PayPal
- Alipay
Which VPN is faster?
We evaluated the internet speed with both Surfshark vs StrongVPN in order to ascertain which VPN performs better. To evaluate the effects of each VPN on upload and download speeds as well as latency, these tests were carried out on a Windows laptop.
We wanted to give a clear image of how much each VPN affects internet performance, so we compared speeds with and without the VPN connected.
The percentage drop in download speeds for Surfshark vs StrongVPN as compared to baseline speeds without a VPN connection is displayed in the table below.
Although there were some slowdowns with both VPNs, Surfshark VPN continuously performed better than StrongVPN at every server location that was tested. Interestingly, Surfshark barely affected servers in the United States and the United Kingdom, causing just minor slowdowns of 3.6% and 9.1%, respectively.
However, StrongVPN saw notable slowdowns, with speed drops of 49.9% and 60.9%, respectively, especially in the UK and Australia.
It’s crucial to remember that slower speeds and higher latency are a natural consequence of the physical distance between your location and the server. This effect is demonstrated in the Australian server tests, where both VPNs saw the most slowdowns due to the considerable distance.
Which VPN offers better compatibility and customer service?
Both Surfshark vs StrongVPN are compatible with a large number of platforms, including Linux, iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows. StrongVPN only works with Chrome; however, Surfshark has an advantage with browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Both VPNs ensure complete coverage for all of your digital needs by operating on routers and smart devices. Both VPNs provide round-the-clock customer assistance, although the experiences vary a little. Surfshark offers online tutorials, email assistance, and live chat.
Similar support options are provided by StrongVPN, but it also offers phone support, which can be quite helpful for customers who would rather talk to a support agent directly. However, compared to Surfshark’s more user-friendly and intuitive design, StrongVPN’s UI can be more difficult to use, with some options more difficult to locate.
Which VPN is more secure?
The security features of Surfshark VPN are obviously superior to those of StrongVPN. Compared to StrongVPN, which has 950+ servers spread across 30+ countries, Surfshark has more possibilities for secure connections with 3,200+ servers spread across 100 countries.
An additional degree of trust is added by Surfshark’s no-logs policy, which is audited by outside firm Deloitte. Users who value VPN privacy may be concerned about StrongVPN’s lack of a third-party audit despite the company’s no-logs guarantee.
Essential security features like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection are offered by both VPNs. While StrongVPN’s split tunneling is restricted to Android devices, Surfshark takes one step further by providing other capabilities like an ad blocker and split tunneling across several platforms.
Conclusion
In 2025, both Surfshark vs StrongVPN offer attractive features catered to various customer requirements. With its limitless device connections, intuitive UI, and strong security measures, Surfshark is a great option for individuals or families who value simplicity and all-around security. However, for those looking for a simple VPN experience, StrongVPN offers a more direct approach that emphasizes dependable performance and robust encryption. Whether you seek variety and cutting-edge capabilities or a simple, dependable service, the best deal ultimately depends on your unique needs. Users can make an informed choice that fits their budget and desires for online privacy by examining these considerations.
FAQs
What are the primary distinctions between Surfshark vs StrongVPN?
Unlimited device connections, an easy-to-use UI, and cutting-edge features like MultiHop and CleanWeb are all provided with Surfshark VPN. StrongVPN, on the other hand, is perfect for those who like simplicity because it emphasizes simple performance with robust encryption and a no-logs policy.
What is the best VPN for streaming?
Because Surfshark can get around geo-restrictions on well-known streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, it is typically regarded as superior. Although StrongVPN allows streaming as well, it might not be as good at unblocking specific types of content.
What is the difference between the price plans?
Surfshark is a cost-effective option because it usually provides competitive pricing with large discounts for long-term memberships. Although StrongVPN offers reasonably priced plans as well, they could not offer the same functionality at lower price points.
Are the two VPNs safe?
Yes, user security is a top priority for both Surfshark vs StrongVPN. AES-256-GCM encryption, a kill button, and a rigorous no-logs policy are all features of Surfshark. In order to protect user privacy, StrongVPN also uses robust encryption and a no-logs policy.