Proton VPN vs Surfshark: which VPN wins in 2026?
We tested Proton VPN and Surfshark head-to-head on every criterion in our vpn methodology. Here's the verdict.
Verdict
Proton VPN wins overall
Based on 6 vpn criteria: Proton VPN wins 2, Surfshark wins 1, 3 tied.
Proton VPN
Winner2
criteria won
Surfshark
1
criteria won
Feature-by-feature
| Criterion | Proton VPN | Surfshark | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Published audits | 4 | 2 | Proton VPN |
| Most recent audit (year) | 2025 | 2025 | — |
| Eyes status | Switzerland (none) | Netherlands (9 Eyes) | — |
| 2-year price ($/mo) | $2.99 | $1.99 | Surfshark |
| Refund window (days) | 30 | 30 | — |
| Open-source apps | Yes | No | Proton VPN |
Total cost of ownership
| Horizon | Proton VPN | Surfshark | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 months | $3 | $2 | Surfshark |
| 12 months | $36 | $24 | Surfshark |
| 24 months | $72 | $48 | Surfshark |