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Best for value seekers and feature enthusiasts
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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 for simplified VPN usage
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A simple, basic VPN service
Somewhat large network of servers
Wide compatibility of devices
Surfshark VPN offers a wide array of features at an affordable rate, starting as low as $2.19/mo (billed biannually). It supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a great choice for families or those seeking access to extensive feature sets.
StrongVPN is a straightforward, no-frills service with solid basic protection and reliable performance, making it a great choice for users seeking simplicity and dependability.
This comparison will explore the costs, features, and performance of each to help you decide which virtual private network (VPN) best fits your specific needs.
Both Surfshark and 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.
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| Price | From $2.19/mo (billed biannually) | From $3.97/mo (billed annually) |
| Max # of connected devices | Unlimited | 12 |
| 24/7 customer support | ||
| Compatibility | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Fire TV, Android TV, Smart TVs, browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, FireTV, ChromeOS, routers |
| # of servers | 3,200+ in 100 countries | 950+ in 30 countries |
| VPN protocol | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2 | WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN, IPSec |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | ||
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get StrongVPN
Read StrongVPN Review |
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.
Surfshark VPN offers exceptional value with pricing starting at just $2.19/mo (billed biannually) for a two-year plan. It has over 3,200 servers in 100 countries for fast and reliable connections worldwide.
Notable features include unlimited simultaneous connections, robust security protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, and additional tools such as CleanWeb for ad blocking and Alt ID for enhanced privacy.
Surfshark's performance in our speed tests is impressive, with minimal impact on internet speeds, and it consistently unblocks popular streaming services like Netflix.
However, Surfshark’s headquarters are in the Netherlands, a member of the Nine Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, which may raise privacy concerns for some users. Additionally, while it offers comprehensive security features, some advanced options (like antivirus protection) require an extra fee.
Overall, Surfshark stands out for its rich feature set, affordability, and high-speed performance, making it a top choice for many users.
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 over 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.
On the downside, StrongVPN lacks some of the advanced features found in competitors like Surfshark, such as an ad blocker or specialized privacy tools. Its user interface can be less intuitive, making it challenging for some users to navigate and adjust settings.
Despite these limitations, StrongVPN provides solid security and a no-logs policy, making it a suitable choice for those prioritizing simplicity and basic online protection.
Our Pick
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| Price range | $2.19–$17.95/mo | $3.97–$11.99/mo |
| Best value plan | 24-month plan for $2.19/mo (billed biannually) | 12-month plan for $3.97/mo (billed annually) |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 30 days | Yes — 30 days |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get StrongVPN
Read StrongVPN Review |
In comparing prices, Surfshark VPN offers a range from $2.19–$17.95/mo with the best value found in its 24-month plan at $2.19/mo (billed biannually). It also has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
The 24-month plan includes all essential features such as unlimited simultaneous connections, access to 3,200+ servers, and advanced security tools, making it a comprehensive option at a highly affordable rate.
StrongVPN’s pricing ranges from $3.97–$11.99/mo with the best value plan being the 12-month subscription at $3.97/mo (billed annually). This plan offers good basic VPN features and solid performance at a reasonable cost.
Like Surfshark, StrongVPN also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service before committing. While not as feature rich as Surfshark, StrongVPN’s straightforward approach may appeal to users seeking simplicity and reliability.
Both Surfshark and StrongVPN offer a variety of payment options, providing flexibility and additional privacy for users. Paying with cryptocurrency, for instance, can add an extra layer of anonymity.
Here’s an overview of the payment options for each VPN.
Winner: Surfshark VPN offers the best price with its highly affordable 24-month plan at $2.19/mo (billed biannually) coupled with extensive features and flexible payment options, including cryptocurrency for enhanced privacy.
To determine which VPN offers better performance, we tested the internet speed while using both Surfshark VPN and StrongVPN. These tests were conducted on a Windows laptop to assess how each VPN affects download and upload speeds as well as latency.
By comparing speeds with and without the VPN connected, we aimed to provide a clear picture of how much each VPN impacts internet performance.
The table below shows the percentage decrease in download speeds for Surfshark VPN and StrongVPN compared to baseline speeds without a VPN connection.
| Server location | Our Pick
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| US | 3.6% slower | 4.53% slower |
| Canada | 8.6% slower | N/A |
| UK | 9.1% slower | 49.9% slower |
| AU | 33.8% slower | 60.9% slower |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get StrongVPN
Read StrongVPN Review |
While both VPNs caused some slowdowns, Surfshark VPN consistently outperformed StrongVPN across all server locations tested. Notably, Surfshark had a minimal impact on U.S. and U.K. servers, with only slight slowdowns of 3.6% and 9.1%, respectively.
StrongVPN, however, showed significant slowdowns, particularly in the U.K. and Australia, with decreases in speed of 49.9% and 60.9%, respectively.
It's important to note that the physical distance from your location to the server naturally results in slower speeds and higher latency. This effect is evident in the Australian server tests where the significant distance led to the greatest slowdowns for both VPNs.
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| Feature | Our Pick
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| Number of servers | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | 950+ servers in 30 countries |
| No-logs policy | No logs (audited by Deloitte) | No logs |
| VPN headquarters | The Netherlands | United States |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES-256 |
| VPN protocol | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2 | WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN, IPSec |
| Kill switch | ||
| Split tunneling | Yes (Android only) | |
| DNS leak protection | ||
| Ad blocker | ||
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get StrongVPN
Read StrongVPN Review |
When comparing Surfshark VPN’s and StrongVPN’s security features, Surfshark clearly stands out. With over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, Surfshark offers more options for secure connections compared to StrongVPN’s 950+ servers in 30 countries.
Surfshark’s no-logs policy, audited by third-party Deloitte, adds an extra layer of trust. StrongVPN also maintains a no-logs policy but has not specified a third-party audit, which might concern users who prioritize VPN privacy.
Both VPNs provide essential security features like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. However, Surfshark goes a step further by offering additional tools such as an ad blocker and split tunneling on multiple platforms, whereas StrongVPN’s split tunneling is limited to Android devices only.
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Our Pick
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| Windows | ||
| macOS | ||
| Android | ||
| iOS | ||
| Linux | ||
| Routers | ||
| Smart devices | ||
| Browser extensions | Yes — Chrome, Firefox, Edge | Yes — Chrome, Firefox |
| 24/7 customer support | ||
| Customer support options | Live chat, email, online guides, forums | Live chat, email, online guides, phone |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get StrongVPN
Read StrongVPN Review |
In terms of compatibility, both Surfshark and StrongVPN support a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. Surfshark has an edge with browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, whereas StrongVPN supports only Chrome and Firefox.
Both VPNs work on routers and smart devices, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all your digital needs.
When it comes to customer support, both VPNs offer 24/7 service, but the experience differs slightly. Surfshark provides live chat, email support, online guides, and forums, ensuring users have multiple ways to get help.
StrongVPN offers similar support options but also includes phone support, which can be a significant advantage for users who prefer speaking directly with a support representative.
However, StrongVPN’s interface can be more challenging to navigate with some features harder to find compared to Surfshark’s more intuitive and user-friendly design.
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StrongVPN is owned by Ziff Davis, formerly of the J2 Global company. Ziff Davis is a well-established technology and digital media company that owns a variety of internet services and media brands.
Yes, you can trust Surfshark. It operates under a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not keep any records of your online activities. Additionally, Surfshark uses top-notch security protocols and encryption methods, such as AES-256-GCM encryption and the WireGuard protocol, to ensure that your data remains secure.
As of now, Surfshark has not been hacked or experienced any major security breaches. The company maintains a high level of transparency and regularly updates its security measures to protect its users. Surfshark’s infrastructure is designed to minimize risks, and it employs advanced security features such as MultiHop and CleanWeb to enhance user protection.
Surfshark VPN is the better choice due to its comprehensive features, ease of use, and excellent value. It caters to a broader range of needs, making it suitable for both advanced users and those new to VPNs.
Surfshark VPN’s ability to provide unlimited simultaneous connections, an audited no-logs policy, and advanced security tools like CleanWeb and split tunneling make it one of the best VPN services on the market.
However, its location in the Netherlands, part of the Nine Eyes alliance, might be a concern for some privacy-focused users.
StrongVPN lacks some of the advanced features that Surfshark offers. It supports up to 12 devices and includes solid encryption and security protocols. However, its user interface can be challenging to navigate, and it doesn’t provide an ad blocker or broad split tunneling support.
Despite these drawbacks, StrongVPN's straightforward approach and phone support may appeal to users seeking basic and reliable VPN protection.
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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
If Surfshark VPN or StrongVPN doesn’t meet your needs, consider these alternatives.
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| Best for | Comprehensive security | Premium features and speed | Privacy and transparency |
| Price | From $3.99/mo (billed every two years) | From $6.67/mo (billed annually) | From $4.49/mo |
| Max # of connected devices | 10 | 8 | 10 |
| 24/7 customer support | |||
| Compatibility | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Browsers, Smart TV, and more | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Routers, and more | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| # of servers | 6,300+ servers in 111 countries | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | 5,200+ servers in 90 countries |
| VPN protocol | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, NordLynx | OpenVPN, IKEv2, Lightway | OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, WireGuard |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | |||
| Learn more | Get NordVPN
Read NordVPN Review |
Get ExpressVPN
Read ExpressVPN Review |
Get Proton VPN
Read Proton VPN Review |
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
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