NordVPN vs Surfshark: which VPN wins in 2026?
We tested NordVPN and Surfshark head-to-head on every criterion in our vpn methodology. Here's the verdict.
Verdict
Neck and neck
Based on 6 vpn criteria: NordVPN wins 1, Surfshark wins 1, 4 tied.
NordVPN
1
criteria won
Surfshark
1
criteria won
Feature-by-feature
| Criterion | NordVPN | Surfshark | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Published audits | 6 | 2 | NordVPN |
| Most recent audit (year) | 2025 | 2025 | โ |
| Eyes status | Panama (none) | Netherlands (9 Eyes) | โ |
| 2-year price ($/mo) | $3.39 | $1.99 | Surfshark |
| Refund window (days) | 30 | 30 | โ |
| Open-source apps | No | No | โ |
Total cost of ownership
| Horizon | NordVPN | Surfshark | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 months | $3 | $2 | Surfshark |
| 12 months | $41 | $24 | Surfshark |
| 24 months | $81 | $48 | Surfshark |