Surfshark One Review 2025: Essential Security Stack or Overkill?

Discover why Surfshark One, which offers seamless protection for your online activities, might be the comprehensive digital security suite you've been seeking.

Surfshark One is one of our favorite security bundles because no service included is lackluster. Plus, its two-year plans start at only $2.49/mo (billed every two years) and cover unlimited VPN connections.

Surfshark VPN, which is included with all tiers, is a user-friendly and speedy VPN that unblocks geo-restricted content with ease. CleanWeb efficiently blocks ads while you're browsing, watching YouTube videos, and even streaming. And Surfshark Antivirus has received high scores with third-party testers like AV-TEST, so your device will be protected from malware.

Learn more about every aspect of Surfshark One in this comprehensive review. 

Pros
  • Comprehensive all-in-one security bundle with a VPN, antivirus, and ad blocker
  • Surfshark’s VPN offers thousands of servers in 100 countries
  • CleanWeb 2.0 blocks all ads, including YouTube ads
  • Includes advanced security features like Surfshark Alert, Surfshark Search, Surfshark Alternative ID, and Incogni
Cons
  • No firewall in Surfshark’s antivirus
  • Split tunneling and whitelisting are unavailable on iOS and macOS
  • Based in the Netherlands, which is part of the Nine Eyes alliance
In this article
Overview
Our experience
Who is Surfshark One best for?
Prices and subscriptions
VPN features and test results
Antivirus features and test results
CleanWeb features and test results
Compatibility
Surfshark One customer support
Alternatives
FAQs
Bottom line: Is Surfshark One good?

Overview

Price $2.49–$20.65/mo
Max # of VPN connections Unlimited
# of VPN servers 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
No-logs policy No logs
Encryption AES-256-GCM
Netflix access Yes
Malware scans Yes
Real-time protection Yes
EICAR test results 2/3
Firewall No
Adblock Tester score 96/100
Cover Your Tracks score 0.5/3
Does it block YouTube ads? Yes (Windows and Android only)
Compatibility Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more
Learn more Get Surfshark One

How we test and rate products

For every product type, we complete standardized hands-on tests so we can put their claims to the test for each review. 

For VPNs, we compare our internet speeds while connected to different servers, check for DNS and WebRTC leaks, make sure the kill switch actually works and more. For antivirus programs, we review their third-party test results and conduct EICAR tests. And for ad blockers, we use websites like adblock-tester.com, coveryourtracks.eff.org, and canyoublockit.com to test for effectiveness against ads and trackers. 

Once we've completed the testing, our editorial rating is calculated by taking into account key features you'd expect from a good product. This includes price, test scores, features, and more. 

We last updated all of Surfshark One's test results on April 4, 2025.

4.8
All-In-One
Surfshark One
  • Blocks ads and pop-ups, including cookie consent requests, while browsing
  • Can also browse ad-free without a digital footprint with the Surfshark Search engine
  • All-in-one app includes VPN, antivirus scans, alternative ID creation, malware protection, and more on unlimited devices
Learn More

Our experience

Our Surfshark One experience began smoothly with an effortless download and installation process. Its comprehensive suite — VPN, Antivirus, and CleanWeb — was navigable and user-friendly. 

Surfshark Antivirus setup page

During setup, Surfshark provides tips and tutorials every step of the way. So if you've never used a virtual private network (VPN) or an antivirus, you'll receive plenty of guidance. Plus, it has plenty of help guides and 24/7 chat support for round the clock help. 

Surfshark tutorial explaining how to connect to the VPN

Throughout our testing, no issues arose. The antivirus ran quietly in the background, and the CleanWeb feature effectively blocked ads, enhancing our browsing experience. The VPN maintained stable connections, proving its reliability. 

Overall, Surfshark One offered a harmonious blend of security and usability, embodying a powerful yet intuitive digital protection solution.

Who is Surfshark One best for?

  • Recommended for individuals who prioritize a multi-layered approach to digital security and privacy

Surfshark One positions itself as a strong choice in digital security, providing an all-encompassing solution with VPN, antivirus, and ad-blocking capabilities. Its strength lies in its robust security features paired with ease of use, ensuring a smooth and secure online experience. 

Surfshark One proved its effectiveness with its positive test results for malware detection and ad blocking. Plus, the VPN maintained solid speeds, unblocked Netflix libraries, and had no data leaks.

Its competitive pricing further enhances its appeal, offering great value for a comprehensive digital protection package. If you're seeking thorough online security without complexity, then Surfshark One is an indispensable asset.

Surfshark One prices and subscriptions

Surfshark One ranges in price from $2.49–$20.65/mo. All plan tiers are available as monthly, annual, and two-year subscriptions. 

See how Surfshark's plan pricing breaks down monthly in the table below. 

Plan 1 month cost 12-months 24 months
Surfshark Starter $15.45/mo $3.19/mo (billed annually) $2.19/mo (billed biennially)
Surfshark One $15.45/mo $3.39/mo (billed annually) $2.49/mo (billed every two years)
Surfshark One+ $20.65/mo $6.09/mo (billed annually) $3.99/mo (billed every two years)

Surfshark One stands out with its 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans, offering peace of mind to subscribers. Additionally, those opting for the 24-month plans can receive free months on their subscription.

Plan comparison

Surfshark One enhances the standard Surfshark plan with antivirus and real-time alerts, while Surfshark One+ adds data removal services to this suite.

Compared to market alternatives, Surfshark One offers considerable value, integrating VPN, ad blocking, and antivirus features into one package, making it an attractive option for those seeking an all-in-one solution for comprehensive online protection and privacy.

Features Surfshark Starter Surfshark One Surfshark One+
Secure VPN
CleanWeb ad blocker
Cookie pop-up blocker
Personal detail generator
Masked email generator
Surfshark Alert: real-time email breach alerts
Antivirus, anti-spyware, and malware protection
24/7 antivirus protection
Incogni data removal from company databases
Learn more View plan View plan View plan

Surfshark VPN features and test results

Surfshark VPN is a well-rounded virtual private network that offers a wide range of features include a large server network, an audited no-logs policy, and a kill switch for privacy. 

One great feature is its unlimited simultaneous connections, which allows you all your compatible devices. This is uncommon among VPN providers and can be very useful for families or individuals with multiple devices.

Server count and countries

  • 3,200+ servers in 100 countries

Surfshark has an above average server network size, with thousands of servers in 100 countries. It also has specialty servers for static IP and multi-hop connections. 

Other services like NordVPN and Proton VPN have larger server networks, with 7,400+ servers and 12,000+ servers respectively. However, Surfshark still has a balance of server quantity and quality considering its minimal impacts on our speed and ability to stream Netflix libraries from around the world.

No-logs policy and headquarters

  • Surfshark One logs policy: No logs
  • Surfshark One headquarters: The Netherlands

Surfshark's no-logs policy, verified by an independent Deloitte audit, ensures it doesn't track or share user data, offering unparalleled privacy. This policy, coupled with Surfshark's strategic headquarters in the Netherlands (a country with robust privacy laws), reinforces its commitment to keeping your data confidential.

However, the Netherlands is a part of the Nine Eyes alliance, so if another intelligence-sharing government alliance requests user data or internet activity, Surfshark will have to legally abide. The Netherlands doesn't have any data retention laws, so this shouldn't be too concerning. 

Kill switch

The kill switch is a critical security feature that protects your data from being exposed if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. It works by automatically cutting off your internet access until the VPN connection is re-established, ensuring your data remains private at all times. 

The kill switch can be easily activated within the Surfshark app's security settings.

Surfshark's settings under the VPN settings tab with a red outline around the kill switch

Split tunneling

With split tunneling, you can select which apps or websites go through the VPN connection and which ones connect directly to the internet. This feature is particularly useful for accessing local services while still protecting your main browsing activities. 

You can find the split tunneling option in the Surfshark app settings.

Surfshark's Bypasser settings

VPN protocols

Surfshark supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec protocols, offering a blend of speed, security, and device compatibility.

WireGuard excels in speed, OpenVPN in security, and IKEv2/IPSec in mobile reliability. Surfshark can auto-select the optimal protocol for users, balancing security and performance efficiently, making it a versatile choice for various network conditions.

VPN speed tests

  • Speed test results: Surfshark dropped our download speeds by an average of 9%.

We tested Surfshark on a laptop running Windows 11. We recorded a baseline internet speed of 413.91 Mbps download, 438.04 Mbps upload, and 19 ms latency.

Test type No VPN US to US US to CA US to EU US to AU
Download speed 413.91 Mbps 410.00 Mbps 402.46 Mbps 356.80 Mbps 271.34 Mbps
Upload speed 438.04 Mbps 377.52 Mbps 436.50 Mbps 105.98 Mbps 433.29 Mbps
Latency (ping) 19 ms 12 ms 53 ms 117 ms 193 ms
Download speed % difference N/A -0.94% -2.77% -13.80% -17.99%
Upload speed % difference N/A -13.82% -0.35% -75.81% -1.08%
Latency % difference N/A -36.84% +178.95% +515.79% +915.79%
Test results as of 04/01/2025.

Every server location didn't impact our device performance much. The U.S. server decreased our speed by less than 1% and improved our latency. 

Even with the international servers, Surfshark only decreased our speed by a maximum of almost 18%. Your latency will increase with faraway servers, but that's due to the distance from your physical location to the server location. 

Overall, we were impressed by Surfshark's limited impact on our internet speeds. 

Netflix tests

  • Netflix test results: Surfshark passed all its Netflix tests.

Surfshark excelled as a VPN for streaming Netflix, seamlessly unlocking content across the U.S., Canada, U.K., and Australia. Its ability to bypass geo-restrictions allows you to access a wide range of Netflix content globally. 

US to US US to UK US to CA US to AU
Did it work with Netflix?
Test results as of 04/01/2025.

Despite past limitations in certain regions, the service ensured smooth streaming without lag or buffering issues. Surfshark's reliable performance makes it a top choice for streamers eager to explore international Netflix libraries.

Netflix list of top shows in Australia today with Surfshark in the foreground

DNS and WebRTC leak tests

  • DNS leak test results: Passed
  • WebRTC leak test results: Passed

DNS translates website names to IP addresses. A DNS leak exposes your browsing via ISP servers, not the VPN's tunnel. Surfshark One passed DNS leak tests, effectively securing your internet activities and maintaining online anonymity by routing all traffic securely through the VPN.

WebRTC enables browser-based direct communication but may reveal your IP address. Surfshark One passed WebRTC leak tests, demonstrating its ability to prevent such exposure. This ensures your IP address stays hidden, enhancing your privacy and security during web browsing and real-time online communication.

Surfshark's WebRTC leak test results (pass)

Kill switch test

  • Kill switch test results: Surfshark passed its kill switch test.

Surfshark comes with a kill switch, which can disable your internet connection if the VPN drops. This will protect you from exposure on public Wi-Fi and other unsafe networks. 

With the kill switch enabled, we swapped from a server in Australia to a server in South Korea. There was no exposure of our true IP address.

Surfshark Antivirus features and test results

Surfshark Antivirus provides manual and automatic scans, real-time protection, and anti-phishing powered by CleanWeb technology. It can detect and remove of malware to help protect from all sorts of cyberthreats.

On the downside, Surfshark One Antivirus lacks a dedicated firewall. This means that it doesn’t have the ability to block incoming traffic and protect against potential cyberattacks.

Malware and antivirus scan

Surfshark Antivirus has flexible scanning options, allowing you to conduct both quick scans for immediate threats and full scans for a comprehensive system checkup. The process works in the background and is quick, efficient, and unobtrusive, with minimal disruption of the user's activities. 

Surfshark Antivirus main page with list of scan options

Phishing protection

Surfshark Antivirus also uses the CleanWeb technology for additional protection against phishing sites. The setup is simple; just visit the CleanWeb tab and hit the toggle.

Surfshark phishing protection

Real-time protection

Surfshark Antivirus's real-time protection is effective, having successfully detected and neutralized multiple threats during our testing. Coupled with the ad blocker, this adds dual protection from harmful websites, phishing attempts, and invasive trackers without affecting your system performance or user experience.

Surfshark real-time protection catching a threat

Ransomware protection

Another layer of defense that Surfshark offers is its continuous anti-ransomware, which can protect its you against this group of threats. This works out of the box with other antivirus protections, culminating in total protection without needing the user to set up anything.

Surfshark Antivirus test results

Surfshark Antivirus is a newer antivirus program, but we were impressed by its fast scan times and solid malware protection scores.

Scan speed

  • Result: Fast

Surfshark Antivirus didn't disappoint with its scan speeds. The quick scan was done almost instantly despite having scanned over 18,000 files. 

Surfshark Antivirus initial scan results (no threats found)

The full scan took only six minutes, which beat our preferred time of 10 minutes for a full scan. It was easy to browse while Surfshark Antivirus scanned our device in the background. 

Scan type Time spent
Quick scan 8 seconds
Full scan 6 minutes
Test results as of 04/04/2025.

EICAR test results

  • Results: 2/3
Test Surfshark One score
Malware detection Pass
Drive-by malware downloads Pass
Phishing detection Fail
Test results as of 04/04/2025.

EICAR, the European Institute for Computer Antivirus Research, provides test files for multiple cyberthreats. They're used to check any given antivirus program for its detection and reaction abilities — all without the need to expose any system to real threats. 

Surfshark One successfully passed the malware tests, proving to be effective in malware detection and protection. However, Surfshark Antivirus didn't detect the fake phishing page, even with the browser extension installed. 

A warning from Surfshark about a malware website on our browser tab and a pop-up from Surfshark flagging the blocked page

Has Surfshark Antivirus completed third-party testing?

Despite only being released in 2021, Surfshark Antivirus has submitted its Windows program to AV-TEST for review. Surfshark Antivirus's most recent results are from July 2024, and it achieved a 17.5/18.

Bonus features

Surfshark One's antivirus program is complemented by a range of bonus features that enhance user security without compromising on performance or convenience. These features are designed to provide a more secure and private digital experience across various platforms.

Webcam protection

Surfshark One includes a webcam protection feature that prevents unauthorized access to your camera. This tool allows you to lock your webcam securely and receive immediate alerts if any application or website attempts to use the webcam without permission. 

Surfshark Alert

Surfshark One offers data breach alerts, a feature designed to notify users immediately if their personal information, such as email, ID, credit card numbers, or other sensitive data, is discovered in an online data breach. 

This proactive approach to personal data security helps users take timely action to secure their accounts and prevent identity theft or fraud.

Surfshark Alert, which protects your identity with data breach monitoring.

Surfshark Search

Are you tired of worrying about your web privacy and need more than just incognito mode? If you want to safely and privately browse the web, use the Surfshark Search feature, available on Surfshark One and One+ plans. This private search engine is ad-free, so your online activities aren’t being tracked or monitored.

Surfshark's private search engine.

Surfshark Alternative ID

Surfshark Alternative ID is an identity theft protection feature included with all Surfshark One plans. Basically, it’s a way to keep your identity incognito — and protect against hackers, spam, and data brokers. 

You provide the specs, and Surfshark can generate a new online profile with a valid email address for you to use instead of your real contact information. You can create an unlimited number of online personas and store up to three different alternative email addresses.

Incogni data removal services

With Surfshark One+, you have access to the top-notch data removal service Incogni. Here’s how it works: Surfshark sends requests on your behalf to remove your data from data brokers. 

That’s it. You don’t need to file or manage negotiation requests with data brokers because Surfshark handles it all for you.

Surfshark CleanWeb features and test results

Surfshark CleanWeb enhances web browsing by providing comprehensive ad blocking, tracker blocking, phishing, and malware protection. Its effectiveness extends to preventing online threats, although it lacks direct site whitelisting or blacklisting. Surfshark compensates with the Bypasser feature for customized access control.

CleanWeb's user-friendly interface clearly indicates active protection, ensuring users feel secure. Despite some customization limits, its broad protective capabilities make it a valuable tool for safer internet navigation.

Surfshark CleanWeb test results

AdBlock Tester Cover Your Tracks Can You Block It?
Surfshark CleanWeb score 96/100 0.5/3 2/3
Test results as of 04/03/2025.

To evaluate CleanWeb's effectiveness, we used AdBlock Tester, Cover Your Tracks, and Can You Block It tools. 

CleanWeb scored 96/100 on AdBlock Tester, effectively blocking various ads and trackers. The missing points were from tests that were listed as "most likely passed," so we'll take that as a win over failed tests. It also passed most of the Can You Block it tests, having only failed to block an interstitial ad.

Surfshark CleanWeb's AdBlock Tester results (96/100)

However, on Cover Your Tracks, it scored only 0.5/3, having failed at blocking tracking ads and invisible trackers. Our fingerprint was at least nearly unique, so it provided partial protection against fingerprinting. 

Surfshark CleanWeb's Cover Your Tracks results (0.5/3)

Overall, these results could be disappointing for privacy-focused users, but you can stack CleanWeb with a tracker blocker for better protection. 

Does Surfshark CleanWeb block YouTube ads?

During testing, CleanWeb effectively blocked YouTube ads, including banners, pre-rolls, and mid-roll ads.

Surfshark One compatibility

Surfshark One can protect devices on your home Wi-Fi, a range of connected devices, or on the move. It’s compatible with the following:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • iOS
  • Android
  • Fire TV
  • Google Chrome
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Micrsoft Edge

Surfshark One customer support

Surfshark ensures you can easily find help, with its extensive range of user-friendly online tutorials, guides, and setup instructions through its Help Center and YouTube channel. For more direct support, it provides 24/7 live chat and email assistance, available to all users. 

We found its customer service to be highly efficient, with a responsive chatbot and a helpful live agent offering quick, courteous assistance. This level of responsive and proactive customer support underscores Surfshark's dedication to user satisfaction and highlights its commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible assistance.

Surfshark One alternatives

While Surfshark One offers a comprehensive suite of online protection tools, including VPN, antivirus, and ad-blocking capabilities, there are several alternatives in the market that provide similar or complementary services. 

Here's a look at some notable options:

Price $3.09–$17.99/mo $29.00–$49.00/yr (first year only) $1.00-$4.50/mo + cost of VPN
Max # of connected devices 10 8 7
VPN
Antivirus
Ad blocker
Learn more Get NordVPN Get TotalAV Get CyberGhost

FAQs

Is the full Surfshark One bundle worth it?

Surfshark One is worth it if you need a comprehensive online protection suite. It combines VPN, antivirus, and ad blocking, and even data removal services with the top tier. 

Given its range of features and the convenience of having multiple services under one subscription, it offers significant value for those prioritizing online safety and privacy.

What is the difference between Surfshark and Surfshark One?

Surfshark refers to the company's Surfshark VPN service, while Surfshark One is a more extensive bundle that includes the VPN plus Surfshark Antivirus for malware protection and Surfshark CleanWeb for ad blocking and phishing protection. 

Can Surfshark be trusted?

Yes, Surfshark is trustworthy thanks to its strict no-logs policy, validated by independent audits by Deloitte, and military-grade encryption. The company's commitment to privacy and security, alongside positive user reviews and transparency in its operations, reinforces its reliability.

Is Surfshark Antivirus good enough?

Based on our testing and third-party tests, Surfshark Antivirus offers proven protection against malware. Its integration with the Surfshark One bundle enhances overall device security by providing real-time protection and automatic updates. 

While it may not have the same level of features as standalone antivirus programs (e.g., enhanced firewall protection), it's a solid option if you're seeking streamlined, effective malware defense within a larger security suite.

Bottom line: Is Surfshark One good?

Surfshark One sets itself apart from the pack due to its all-inclusive approach to security: a VPN, antivirus, and ad blocker all in one package. This suite will keep you protected from all kinds of possible threats in the cyberspace world. 

The one disadvantage is that its antivirus doesn't include a dedicated firewall, which can be a concern if you want to protect all your networks at once. The CleanWeb feature also struggles with blocking trackers. 

Nevertheless, if you need a reliable security tool to protect your digital life easily, Surfshark One remains an indispensable choice. It’s especially good for users who value convenience, effectiveness, and comprehensive coverage in their cybersecurity toolkit.

Full Suite of Cybersecurity Tools on Unlimited Devices
4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark One's website
All-In-One
Surfshark One
Grab Birthday VPN Deal From $1.99/mo
  • Blocks ads and pop-ups, including cookie consent requests, while browsing
  • Can also browse ad-free without a digital footprint with the Surfshark Search engine
  • All-in-one app includes VPN, antivirus scans, alternative ID creation, malware protection, and more on unlimited devices
Author Details
Ryan Clancy is a freelance writer and blogger. With 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience, he's passionate about all things engineering and tech. He loves bringing engineering (especially mechanical) down to a level that everyone can understand.