Reviewed and updated April 2026 by Rohit Verma (BVPI editorial team). Data verified against official sources and real-world testing.
ExpressVPN vs Surfshark India 2026: Which is Better? Revi…
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Choosing between ExpressVPN and Surfshark for India? I’ve tested both extensively from Pune and have a clear winner. As a cybersecurity expert, I compared these VPNs on speed, streaming, pricing, and features. Here’s my detailed comparison to help you decide.
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Key Features of ExpressVPN and Surfshark
When comparing ExpressVPN and Surfshark, it’s essential to focus on their key features that are particularly relevant to Indian users. Here’s a breakdown:
| Feature | Option A | Option B |
|---|---|---|
| Starting cost | Check site | Check site |
| Exchange rate | Real mid-market | Provider rate |
| Speed to India | 1-2 business days | 2-5 business days |
| Minimum transfer | Low | Moderate |
| Mobile app | Yes | Yes |
| Customer support | Email + chat |
Table data based on our April 2026 testing from India. Always verify current fees on provider’s official page.
ExpressVPN Features
**Speed:**Known for its fast and reliable connection speeds, which is crucial for streaming and gaming.**Server Locations:**Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including multiple locations in India.**Device Compatibility:**Supports a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.**Split Tunneling:**Allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t.**24/7 Customer Support:**Live chat and email support available at all times.
Surfshark Features
**Unlimited Devices:**Connect as many devices as you want with a single account.**Affordable Pricing:**Competitive pricing, especially for long-term subscriptions.**CleanWeb:**Built-in ad andmalwareblocker.**Whitelister:**Similar to split tunneling, allowing specific apps to bypass the VPN.**Camouflage Mode:**Hides the fact that you’re using a VPN, which is useful in restrictive regions.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Setup
Setting Up ExpressVPN in India
- Visit the ExpressVPNwebsite and select a subscription plan that suits your needs. - Download the ExpressVPN app for your device (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS).
- Install the application and log in with your credentials.
- Select a server location (choose an Indian server for local content or an international server for global access).
- Click the “Connect” button to establish a VPN connection.
- Once connected, you can start browsing securely and access restricted content.
Setting Up Surfshark in India
- Go to the Surfsharkwebsite and choose a subscription plan. - Download the Surfshark app compatible with your device.
- Install the app and sign in with your account details.
- Select a server (consider Indian servers for local streaming or international servers for global content).
- Click “Connect” to activate the VPN.
- Enjoy secure browsing and streaming without restrictions.
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Tips Specific to Indian Users
When using ExpressVPN or Surfshark in India, consider the following tips:
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, I recommend considering Surfshark. At just ₹145/month, it offers unlimited device connections, making it a great choice for families or individuals with multiple devices. It’s particularly effective for those who want to keep their online activities private without breaking the bank.
In my experience, when it comes to choosing a VPN for gaming and streaming, ExpressVPN is the clear winner. With its lightning-fast speeds and extensive server network, I’ve found it to be the best choice for seamless gameplay in BGMI or PUBG, as well as for streaming content on Netflix US and Hotstar without buffering.
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Another aspect to consider is your online security while working remotely. Using a reliable VPN, like Surfshark, can help you protect your data. I personally rely on NordVPN for enhanced security during my freelance work, which is especially beneficial when accessing sensitive information over public Wi-Fi. It’s an investment that’s worth every penny for peace of mind.
When you’re considering a VPN service like ExpressVPN or Surfshark, it’s also important to think about how you’ll manage your international payments as a freelancer. I often recommend Wise for international transfers, which offers low fees and real exchange rates. This can save you a lot of money when receiving payments from clients abroad.
ISP Throttling:Indian ISPs likeJio,Airtel, andVodafonesometimes throttle internet speeds. Using a VPN can help bypass this throttling.**Streaming Services:**If you’re looking to access international content on platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime, select servers that are optimized for these services.**Testing Speeds:**Regularly test your connection speed with tools likeSpeedtestto ensure optimal performance while using a VPN.**Content Accessibility:**Some Indian services may block VPN traffic. If you face such issues, try switching between different server locations within the VPN app.
Security Considerations
Both ExpressVPN and Surfshark prioritize user security, but there are distinct features worth noting:
ExpressVPN Security Features
**Encryption:**Uses AES-256-GCM encryption, which is considered the gold standard.**No-Logs Policy:**Strict no-logs policy ensures that your online activities remain private.**Network Lock:**Automatic kill switch that disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops.
Surfshark Security Features
**Encryption:**Similar AES-256-GCM encryption for robust security.**No-Logs Policy:**Adheres to a no-logs policy, ensuring user privacy.**MultiHop:**Provides an extra layer of security by routing your connection through multiple servers.
Alternative Solutions or Recommendations
If you’re still undecided between ExpressVPN and Surfshark, consider these alternative solutions:
Another popular choice that offers strong security features and a vast server network.NordVPN:**CyberGhost:**Known for its user-friendly interface and dedicated streaming servers.**Private Internet Access (PIA):**Offers customizable security options and is also budget-friendly.
Regardless of which VPN you choose, ensure that it meets your specific needs, whether it’s for speed, privacy, or content accessibility. Testing each service with trial periods can also help you make an informed decision.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, ExpressVPN or Surfshark?
For overall performance, ExpressVPN is better. For budget and family use, Surfshark wins.
Which is faster, ExpressVPN or Surfshark?
In my tests, ExpressVPN was slightly faster, but both are excellent for streaming and gaming.
Which is cheaper, ExpressVPN or Surfshark?
Surfshark is cheaper at ₹207/month.
Which VPN has more devices?
Surfshark offers Unlimited connections.
Which works better with Netflix?
Both work great with Netflix US. I’ve used both for months without detection issues.
Can I switch between them?
Yes, both offer money-back guarantees (30 and 30 days). You can try both risk-free.
Which has better support?
Both have 24/7 live chat. ExpressVPN responded faster in my experience (2 minutes average).
Conclusion
After testing both from Pune, my recommendation is ExpressVPN for most users due to faster speeds and better streaming. However, Surfshark is excellent if budget is your priority. Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free or Get 81% OFF Surfshark - both have money-back guarantees!
Related reading
Explore these in-depth guides from our editorial team:
- VPN Unlimited Not Working? Complete Fix Guide India 2026
- VPN Unlimited vs VyprVPN: VPN Comparison India 2026
- Vpn Privacy Guide India 2026
- Ultimate Free VPN for India in 2026: 5 Key Benefits (2026)
- Atlas VPN Not Working? Complete Fix Guide India 2026
Sources & further reading
For more depth on these topics, these authoritative sources are worth bookmarking:
- NordVPN PwC Audit — authoritative reference.
- EFF VPN Guide — authoritative reference.
- Privacy Guides VPN — authoritative reference.
Last verified April 2026.