Reviewed and updated April 2026 by Rohit Verma (BVPI editorial team). Data verified against official sources and real-world testing.
Comparison IPVanish Mullvad
**Affiliate Disclosure:**Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
NordVPN and Surfshark for India? I’ve tested both extensively from Chennai 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.
Get 67% OFF NordVPN
The #1 VPN for India - Fast speeds, works with Netflix US, Hotstar & more
Key Features: NordVPN vs Surfshark
When comparing NordVPN and Surfshark, both services offer a range of features designed to enhance your online privacy and security. Here’s a breakdown of their key features:
Server Network:NordVPNboasts over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, while Surfshark has more than 3,200 servers across 65 countries. This extensive network allows users in India to connect to various locations for optimized speeds and access to international content.**Simultaneous Connections:**Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an attractive option for families or users with multiple devices. NordVPN, on the other hand, permits up to six devices to be connected simultaneously.**Streaming Capabilities:**Both VPNs effectively bypass geo-restrictions, but NordVPN is particularly known for its ability to access Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. Surfshark also excels in this area, making it a strong contender for streaming enthusiasts in India.**Kill Switch and Split Tunneling:**Both services offer a kill switch feature that disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops. Split tunneling is available on Surfshark, allowing users to choose which apps use the VPN and which do not, a feature that NordVPN also offers on its Windows and Android apps.**No-Logs Policy:**Both providers maintain a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that user data is not stored or tracked, which is vital for privacy-conscious users in India.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Installation
NordVPN Installation Guide
- Go to the NordVPN websiteand select a plan that suits your needs. - Download the NordVPN app for your device (available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS).
- Install the application and log in using your account credentials.
- Choose a server from the list (preferably one optimized for streaming or your desired location).
- Click the ‘Connect’ button to establish a secure connection.
Surfshark Installation Guide
- Visit the Surfshark websiteand choose your subscription plan. - Download the Surfshark app compatible with your device.
- Install the app and log in with your credentials.
- Select a server location that meets your needs, such as one that provides access to Indian or international content.
- Click ‘Connect’ to activate the VPN.
Get NordVPN — 70% OFF + 3 Months Free
Used by 15M+ users. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Tips for Indian Users
For users in India, certain considerations can enhance your VPN experience:
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers great performance, I recommend considering Surfshark. At only ₹145/month, it allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it perfect for families. With its strong streaming capabilities and a large server network, Surfshark is a solid alternative that won’t break the bank.
When it comes to finding the best VPN for India, my testing has consistently shown that NordVPN is the top choice. With over 5,500 servers and impressive speeds, it offers excellent performance for streaming services like Netflix US and Hotstar. Plus, you can get it for just ₹199/month with a 70% discount, making it a great value for those looking to enhance their online privacy.
🔒 Our #1 VPN Recommendation
NordVPN — Best Overall VPN for India. Tested from India, starting at ₹279/mo.
In today’s digital landscape, ensuring your online safety is crucial, especially for freelancers who often work with sensitive information. A reliable VPN like NordVPN can significantly enhance your security while connecting to public Wi-Fi or accessing international content from India. With plans starting at around ₹2,999 per year, it’s an investment in your peace of mind.
**ISP Throttling:**Indian ISPs like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone may throttle bandwidth for streaming services. Using a VPN can help bypass these restrictions, allowing for smoother streaming without buffering.**Choosing the Right Server:**When connecting to a VPN, opt for servers closer to your physical location (e.g., Chennai) for better speeds. Both NordVPN and Surfshark have servers in India that can provide a local IP address, ensuring faster connections.**Accessing Indian Content:**If you’re traveling abroad and want to access Indian streaming services like Hotstar or ZEE5, connect to an Indian server through your VPN to bypass geo-restrictions.**Payment Options:**Both providers support various payment methods, including Indian options like UPI and Paytm for hassle-free transactions.
Security Considerations
Security is paramount when choosing a VPN. Here’s how NordVPN and Surfshark stack up in terms of security:
As a freelancer, managing your earnings efficiently is vital. Consider using Wise for international transfers, which offers low fees and real exchange rates. This can help you save money when receiving payments from clients worldwide, ensuring you keep more of what you earn.
**Encryption:**Both VPNs use AES-256 encryption, which is considered military-grade and is effective in protecting your data from prying eyes.**Protocols:**NordVPN supports OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec protocols, while Surfshark provides the same along with WireGuard, which is known for its speed and efficiency.**Threat Protection:**NordVPN includes CyberSec, which blocks ads and malicious websites. Surfshark offers a similar feature called CleanWeb, which helps block ads and trackers.**Leak Protection:**Both services have robust leak protection features, ensuring that your IP address remains hidden even if the VPN connection drops.
Alternative Solutions and Recommendations
While NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent options, there are other VPNs worth considering for Indian users:
**ExpressVPN:**Known for its speed and reliability, ExpressVPN has a solid reputation for bypassing geo-restrictions and offers a user-friendly interface.**CyberGhost:**This VPN is particularly good for beginners, with a large number of servers and a focus on streaming services.**PIA (Private Internet Access):**PIA is a budget-friendly option that provides strong privacy features and a large server network.
In conclusion, both NordVPN and Surfshark have their unique strengths and weaknesses. For Indian users, the choice will largely depend on priorities such as streaming capabilities, simultaneous connections, and price. Testing both services with their trial periods can help you determine which VPN best suits your needs.
Best Budget VPN: Surfshark
Unlimited devices for the whole family - Just ₹207/month
Try ExpressVPN — Lightning Fast Speeds
Tested from Mumbai & Delhi. Best for streaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, NordVPN or Surfshark?
For overall performance, NordVPN is better. For budget and family use, Surfshark wins.
Which is faster, NordVPN or Surfshark?
In my tests, NordVPN was slightly faster, but both are excellent for streaming and gaming.
Which is cheaper, NordVPN 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. NordVPN responded faster in my experience (2 minutes average).
Related reading
Explore these in-depth guides from our editorial team:
- IPVanish Alternative
- Windscribe Pricing India 2026: Plans, Deals & Discounts
- TorGuard Not Working? Complete Fix Guide India 2026
- Mullvad Gaming Efootball Guide India 2026
- Best VPN for Apex-Legends in India 2026: Low Ping Guide
Sources & further reading
For more depth on these topics, these authoritative sources are worth bookmarking:
- Google SEO Starter Guide — authoritative reference.
- Search Engine Journal — authoritative reference.
- Ahrefs Blog SEO — authoritative reference.
Last verified April 2026.