Surfshark VPN vs. Norton Secure VPN 2025: Best Choice for Streaming and Security?

When seeking online privacy, a seamless streaming experience, and overall internet security, choosing the right virtual private network (VPN) can be difficult. Surfshark VPN and Norton Secure VPN stand out amongst the crowd as two popular options, each catering to different needs.

Surfshark VPN is affordable, starting at $1.99/mo, and has an extensive feature set. Boasting 4,500+ servers in 100 countries and having a strict no-logs policy, Surfshark is a top pick for those looking for online privacy on a budget. In fact, Surfshark is one of the best VPNs available and the better VPN provider in this matchup.

Meanwhile, Norton Secure VPN boasts an intuitive interface and seamlessly integrates with Norton’s suite of security products, making it convenient for those already invested in the Norton ecosystem.

We’ll break down and compare these two VPNs, offering our opinion on which is better regarding features, speed tests, customer support, and more.

Surfshark VPN vs. Norton Secure VPN at a glance

• Surfshark VPN: Best value
• Norton Secure VPN: Best for antivirus bundle 

	Our Pick
Price	From $9.95/mo	From $3.33/mo
Max # of connected devices	Unlimited	10
24/7 customer support
Compatibility	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Edge, Firefox	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Edge, Firefox
# of servers	4,500+ servers in 100 countries	Unlisted in 28 countries
VPN protocol	OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2	OpenVPN, WireGuard, Mimic
No-logs policy	No logs	No logs
Unblocks Netflix?		Limited
Learn more	Get Surfshark VPN Read Surfshark VPN Review	Get Norton Secure VPN Read Norton Secure VPN Review

Surfshark VPN pros and cons

Surfshark VPN stands out for its extensive server network, robust security protocols, and ability to unblock streaming services like Netflix across multiple regions. Users benefit from unlimited device connections and additional features like CleanWeb (ad blocker) and Bypasser (which allows specific apps and websites to bypass the VPN).

Despite being based in the Netherlands, which is a member of the Nine Eyes alliance, Surfshark maintains a strict no-logs policy, subject to Deloitte audits.

Norton Secure VPN pros and cons

Norton Secure VPN, part of the well-known Norton security suite, is easy to use and very reliable. It provides strong encryption, supports multiple simultaneous connections, and unblocks several streaming services.

However, it lacks some advanced features like specialty servers, which are common in other top-tier VPNs. Norton is also based in the U.S., which is a part of the Five Eyes alliance.

Surfshark VPN vs. Norton Secure VPN: Prices

	Our Pick
Price range	$1.99–$20.65/mo	$3.33–$5.00/mo
Best value plan	24-month plan for $1.99/mo	Annual plan for $3.33/mo
Money-back guarantee	Yes — 30 days	Yes — 60 days
Learn more	Get Surfshark VPN Read Surfshark VPN Review	Get Norton Secure VPN Read Norton Secure VPN Review

Surfshark VPN offers a price range of $1.99–$20.65/mo, with the best value at its 24-month plan, priced at $1.99/mo.

The 24-month plan includes essential features such as unlimited simultaneous connections, strong security protocols, and the ability to unblock streaming services.

Norton Secure VPN’s prices range from $3.33–$5.00/mo. The best value plan is the annual plan at $3.33/mo. This plan is ideal for users who want a reliable VPN service with strong encryption and access to multiple streaming services at a competitive price.

Additionally, Norton provides a 60-day money-back guarantee on annual plans, allowing users to test the service risk-free.

Payment options

Both Surfshark VPN and Norton Secure VPN offer a variety of payment options to accommodate different preferences and enhance user privacy.

Using anonymous payment methods, such as cryptocurrency, can provide an additional layer of privacy for users concerned about revealing personal information.

Surfshark VPN payment options

• Credit or debit card
• PayPal
• Google Pay
• Amazon Pay
• Cryptocurrency through CoinGate (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more)

Norton Secure VPN payment options

• Credit or debit card
• PayPal
• Google Pay

Which VPN is faster?

To determine which VPN offers the best performance, we conducted a series of internet speed tests while connected to both Surfshark VPN and Norton Secure VPN. These tests were performed on a Windows PC using servers in different locations: the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia.

The aim was to measure the impact of each VPN on internet speed, including download, upload, and latency. We then consider the VPN provider's historical performance and the most recent average speed changes. 

Server location	Our Pick
Average speed change	8% faster	4% slower
Learn more	Get Surfshark VPN Read Surfshark VPN Review	Get Norton Secure VPN Read Norton Secure VPN Review

During our tests, we observed that Surfshark VPN had minimal impact on internet speed, with only slight slowdowns across various server locations. The most significant reduction was observed with the Australian server, as expected due to the physical distance from the test location.

In contrast, Norton Secure VPN showed more substantial slowdowns, particularly on servers in Australia.

Which VPN is more secure?

Feature	Our Pick
Number of servers	4,500+ servers in 100 countries	Unlisted in 28 countries
No-logs policy	No logs	No logs
VPN headquarters	Netherlands	U.S.
Encryption	AES-256-GCM	AES-256
VPN protocol	OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2	OpenVPN, WireGuard, Mimic (proprietary protocol)
Kill switch
Split tunneling
DNS leak protection
Ad blocker
Learn more	Get Surfshark VPN Read Surfshark VPN Review	Get Norton Secure VPN Read Norton Secure VPN Review

Surfshark VPN excels in providing a wide range of security features, including a strict no-logs policy, robust AES-256-GCM encryption, and support for multiple secure VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard.

Its extensive server network in 100 countries, combined with critical security features such as a kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, and an ad blocker, makes it a comprehensive choice for users seeking high security and privacy.

Surfshark VPN also comes bundled with CleanWeb, a top-tested ad blocker that stops unwanted ads, trackers, and malicious files. 

Norton Secure VPN, while providing essential security features such as AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, L2TP/WireGuard, and MIMIC protocols, falls short due to its smaller server network.

However, its user-friendly interface and integration with Norton’s other security products may be appealing to those who prioritize ease of use and brand reliability.

Norton Secure VPN collects data, such as device name, type, and IP address, and stores it in encrypted form for up to 36 months.

Surfshark VPN vs. Norton Secure VPN: Compatibility and customer support

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

Both Surfshark and Norton Secure VPN offer comprehensive compatibility across major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

However, Surfshark goes a step further by supporting Linux, routers, and smart devices, making it a more versatile option for users with diverse tech needs.

Both VPNs offer browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

In terms of customer support, both VPNs provide 24/7 live chat, and comprehensive online guides. Norton Secure VPN also includes phone support, which is beneficial for users who prefer direct communication.

Both VPNs have user-friendly interfaces, but Surfshark stands out for its clean, intuitive design, making it easier to navigate and use compared to Norton.

Surfshark VPN vs. Norton Secure VPN alternatives

We've tested over 50 VPNs and think Surfshark offers the best overall value. But NordVPN and Proton VPN are two other top VPNs we recommend based on in-house testing. See how Surfshark compares:

FAQs

Is Surfshark VPN or Norton Secure VPN better?

Overall, Surfshark VPN is the better choice for those seeking comprehensive security features, extensive device compatibility, and a greater value for the money.

Surfshark VPN excels in providing robust security features, extensive server coverage, and support for a wide range of devices, including Linux and routers. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections and comes at a competitive price.

Norton Secure VPN, while user-friendly and integrated with Norton’s other security products, falls short in several areas. Its limited server network can be a drawback for users prioritizing privacy and global access.

Norton’s headquarters in the U.S. (a Five Eyes country) further complicates its privacy stance, despite claims of a no-logs policy. Similarly problematic, Surfshark is headquartered in the Netherlands, which is part of the Nine Eyes alliance.