Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN 2024: Best Features for Your Budget

In this matchup, we check out Surfshark VPN and Bitdefender VPN to see which is better by comparing features and performance.
We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

Best for fast speeds

4.6
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark's website

VPN
Surfshark
7 day free trial on 12 and 24 month plans
  • All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
  • Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
  • One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support

Best short-term solution

4.5
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Bitdefender VPN's website

VPN
Bitdefender VPN
  • VPN with good size server network with thousands of available virtual servers
  • Annual paid plan is reasonably priced compared to other premium VPN providers
  • Simultaneous connections capped at 10 devices

Surfshark VPN and Bitdefender VPN are both reliable virtual private networks (VPNs). Surfshark offers unlimited devices that can be connected at once and includes additional features to help keep you protected.

There are three different plans (and three durations) for users to choose from, starting as low as $2.19/mo (billed every two years).

Bitdefender’s offerings are more streamlined than Surfshark’s. There’s only one plan, which can protect up to 10 devices at a time.

Let’s look at the similarities and differences between Bitdefender VPN and Surfshark.

In this article
Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN at a glance
Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN: Prices
Which VPN is faster?
Which VPN is more secure?
Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN: Compatibility and customer support
Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN FAQs
Is Surfshark VPN or Bitdefender VPN better?

Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN at a glance

While Surfshark VPN and Bitdefender VPN offer similar offerings, they also have differences that may make one solution a better fit for you over the other.

Surfshark offers unlimited device connections and is compatible with routers, smart TVs, and Apple and Android devices.

With Bitdefender, you’ll be limited to 10 devices, and it’s only available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

How do Surfshark VPN and Bitdefender VPN compare?

Price From $2.19/mo (billed every two years) From $2.92/mo (billed annually) for the first year
Max # of connected devices Unlimited 10
24/7 customer support
Compatibility Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
# of servers 3,200+ servers in 100 countries 4,000 servers in 50+ countries
VPN protocol WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN OpenVPN, IPSec, Hydra
No-logs policy No logs No logs
Unblocks Netflix?
Learn more Get Surfshark
Read Surfshark Review
Get Bitdefender VPN
Read Bitdefender VPN Review

How we test and rate VPNs

We complete standardized hands-on tests for each VPN we review so we can put their claims to the test. This includes vigorous third-party testing by comparing our internet speed while connected to different servers, checking for DNS leaks, making sure the kill switch actually works, and more. We also make sure we can comfortably access popular streaming sites, like Netflix, and still do our day-to-day work without interruption.

Once we’ve completed the testing, our editorial rating is calculated by taking into account key features you’d expect from a good product. We score each VPN in the following categories and use a weighted average to calculate the final rating out of 5 stars: price, server count, speed, security, and features.

To learn more about how we test, check out our full VPN methodology here.

Surfshark VPN pros and cons

Surfshark is an easy-to-use VPN packed with features to help you stay protected online. It offers three different plans: Starter, One, and One+. The Starter plan includes the VPN and an ad blocker, while the higher-tier plans offer additional features such as antivirus protection, credit alerts, and data removal services.

Pros
  • Unlimited devices
  • Compatible with smart TVs and routers
  • Dynamic double VPN functionality
  • 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
Cons
  • Advanced features aren’t available on Starter plan
  • Expensive monthly plans

Bitdefender VPN pros and cons

Bitdefender VPN offers encryption for up to 10 devices at a time, and it works on Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS. Bitdefender offers only one plan, Premium VPN, which you can purchase for as little as $2.92/mo (billed annually) for the first year.

Pros
  • No log policy
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • 4,000 servers in 50+ countries
Cons
  • Significant impact on internet speeds
  • Only available on standard devices such as Windows and macOS

Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN: Prices

Our Pick
Price range $2.19–$17.95/mo $2.92–$6.99/mo
Best value plan 24 month plan for $2.19/mo (billed every two years) 12 month plan for $2.92/mo (billed annually) for the first year
Money-back guarantee Yes — 30 days Yes — 30 days
Learn more Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review
Get Bitdefender VPN
Read Bitdefender VPN Review

Surfshark offers several different plan options while Bitdefender only has one. For the best deal, it’s advantageous to purchase a VPN subscription for one year with Bitdefender or two years with Surfshark.

With a two-year commitment, Surfshark is only $2.19/mo (billed every two years), and Bitdefender is $2.92/mo (billed annually) for the first year with a one-year commitment.

If you want to purchase a VPN solution for only one month, you’ll pay $15.45/mo with Surfshark and $6.99/mo with Bitdefender.

Payment options

Most VPN solutions give you several different payment options, and these two VPNs are no different. Below are the payment options for each provider.

Surfshark VPN payment options

  • Credit card
  • Google Pay
  • Cryptocurrency
  • PayPal
  • Amazon Pay
  • Sofort

Bitdefender VPN payment options

  • Credit card
  • PayPal
  • Bank transfer

Winner: Surfshark wins. It offers more options when you’re ready to pay, and you can also get the best deals when committing to longer-term use.

Which VPN is faster?

One factor to consider when choosing a VPN is how connecting to it affects your overall internet speed. A VPN connection is expected to slow down your speeds a bit, but it should not significantly affect your connection.

Here’s how Surfshark and Bitdefender performed when we were connected to servers around the world.

Server location
Our Pick
US 3.5% slower 70.5% slower
Canada 8.5% slower 70.5% slower
UK 9% slower 71% slower
AU 33% slower 72% slower
Learn more Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review
Get Bitdefender VPN
Read Bitdefender VPN Review

Bitdefender VPN had a significant impact on overall speeds, slowing down our download speed by 70 percent or more in all locations.

Winner: Surfshark is the clear winner here. When connected to Surfshark, we saw a minimal impact on speed.

Which VPN is more secure?

Feature
Our Pick
Number of servers 3,200+ servers in 100 countries 4,000 servers in 50+ countries
No-logs policy No logs No logs
VPN headquarters Netherlands Romania
Encryption AES-256-GCM AES-256
VPN protocol WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN WireGuard, OpenVPN, Hydra
Kill switch
Split tunneling
DNS leak protection
Ad blocker
Learn more Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review
Get Bitdefender VPN
Read Bitdefender VPN Review

Surfshark has servers in more countries than Bitdefender, which gives you access to additional streaming libraries and helps you connect to a specific country.

Bitdefender and Surfshark both offer an ad blocker as part of the VPN, and you’ll get access to key features like kill switch, split tunneling, and DNS leak protection with both VPN services.

Surfshark offers some great additional features, including its dynamic multihop, which allows you to connect to two or more servers for greater encryption. You’ll also gain access to an email and personal detail generator, which can help you take a proactive approach to protecting your data.

Both Surfshark and Bitdefender have no-log policies, which help users have even more anonymity. In 2023, Surfshark’s no-logs policy was verified by Deloitte, giving users greater confidence that their information is secure. In 2022, Bitdefender's no-logs policy was audited by Aon Cyber Solutions. 

Winner: While Surfshark’s and Bitdefender’s VPNs both have a kill switch and split tunneling available, Surfshark wins because of its additional features.

Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN: Compatibility and customer support

Our Pick
Windows
macOS
Android
iOS
Linux
Routers
Smart devices
Browser extensions Yes — Chrome, Firefox, Edge
24/7 customer support
Customer support options Live chat, email, online guides Live chat, email, phone, online guides, forums
Learn more Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review
Get Bitdefender VPN
Read Bitdefender VPN Review

While both Surfshark and Bitdefender offer 24/7 support, Surfshark’s support options are much more accessible. To access Bitdefender’s support channels, you’ll have to answer several questions about your problem first.

If you’re planning on using a VPN while using a Windows or Mac computer or while on an iPhone or Android phone, either VPN solution will work.

If you want to protect additional devices like your internet router or smart devices, you’ll want to use Surfshark, which offers protection for additional types of devices.

Winner: Surfshark wins on compatibility and customer support. You can use Surfshark on more types of devices.

Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN FAQs


+

Has Surfshark ever been hacked?

No, Surfshark has not been hacked or had an instance that compromised user data as of June 2024.


+

Can Bitdefender VPN be trusted?

Bitdefender is a trusted company that offers several different cybersecurity solutions outside of just the VPN.


+

Does Surfshark VPN’s price increase after renewal?

Surfshark plans do not increase after renewal. However, if you have a 24-month plan, it will renew for only 12 months.


+

Does Bitdefender VPN’s price increase after renewal?

Bitdefender is currently offering promotional pricing for its VPN. If you lock in a promotional discount, the VPN will renew at full price, which is subject to change.

Is Surfshark VPN or Bitdefender VPN better?

Overall, Surfshark VPN is the better option, especially if you’re looking for a long-term VPN solution. One of the deciding factors came from our testing while connected to the VPN.

The Bitdefender VPN had a significantly negative impact on our speed, which may make it difficult to use for some. Surfshark’s impact on overall internet speeds was minimal.

We also found Surfshark to be more compatible with a variety of device types and browser extensions, while Bitdefender is limited to Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

Whether you’re experienced at using a VPN or just discovering the technology for the first time, Surfshark makes it easy for you to understand its features and how to use it. It’s also convenient to contact customer support.

With its seven-day free trial, 30-day money-back guarantee, and 4,000 servers, Bitdefender still offers a quality VPN.

Unlimited Device Protection and Large Server Network
4.6
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark's website
VPN
Surfshark
7 day free trial on 12 and 24 month plans
  • All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
  • Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
  • One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support

Surfshark VPN vs. Bitdefender VPN alternatives

There are other reliable VPN solutions if Surfshark and Bitdefender don’t meet your needs.

Here are three top VPN solution alternatives that we’d recommend.

Price $3.09–$15.99/mo $2.19–$11.99/mo $2.03–$12.99/mo
Free version
Max # of connected devices 10 Unlimited 7
# of servers 6,400+ servers in 111 countries Servers in 91 countries Servers in 100 countries
VPN protocol NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec WireGuard, OpenVPN WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2
Encryption AES-256-GCM AES-128-GCM AES 256-bit
No-logs policy No logs No logs No logs
Headquarters Panama United States Romania
Netflix access
Learn more Get NordVPN Get Private Internet Access Get CyberGhost

Unlimited Device Protection and Large Server Network
4.6
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark's website
VPN
Surfshark
7 day free trial on 12 and 24 month plans
  • All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
  • Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
  • One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
Author Details
Andrew Strom Adams is a freelance writer focused on online privacy and digital security. He writes on various topics to help individuals protect themselves on the internet. Andrew has worked in legal marketing, technology, and startups. He has more than 12 years of experience in marketing and communications. He holds an M.B.A. from Westminster College and a B.A. in journalism from Oklahoma Baptist University. When he’s not writing, he’s playing with his two kids or watching reality TV.