Surfshark: A cost-effective VPN with the uncommon capability to mimic GPS data on mobile devices.
Pros
- Many advanced security features & settings
- Diskless (RAM-based) servers & Double VPN
- GPS spoofing setting on Android app
- Rotating IP address feature
- Very affordable on a two-year subscription plan
- Unlimited device connections
Cons
- Kill switch not enabled by default
- No IPv6 leak protection
- NoBorders mode inconsistent in China
- No OpenVPN on macOS
- Slower than ExpressVPN and NordVPN
Overall Rating: 9.2/10
This overall score is computed based on the evaluations in the subsequent nine categories.
- Privacy & Logging Policy: 8.7/10
- Speed: 9.1/10
- Security & Technical Features: 9.7/10
- Streaming: 9.7/10
- Torrenting: 8.6/10
- Ease of Use: 9.7/10
- Bypassing Censorship: 9.0/10
- Server Locations: 9.9/10
- Customer Support: 8.5/10
Surfshark stands as a formidable competitor among the elite VPNs, and it achieves this distinction while maintaining a significantly lower cost. Quality is not sacrificed in any aspect, particularly in the realm of online security.
Distinguished by its strong security measures, this VPN offers an array of advanced features including GPS spoofing, diskless servers, multi-hop servers (Double VPN), and the crucial kill switch functionality.
In summary, Surfshark delivers exceptional value, considering the caliber of its security measures and advanced technical features.
Efficient in overcoming IP and GPS restrictions.
We were highly impressed with Surfshark’s exceptional capability to successfully bypass IP-based geographical restrictions on platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max.
However, what truly distinguishes Surfshark is its unique feature that enables the manipulation of your GPS location on Android smartphones. This is an ability that very few VPNs possess.
The ‘GPS Override’ function effectively thwarts Android mobile applications from pinpointing your actual location through GPS signals. Its usage is straightforward and it functions exactly as intended.
Upon activation, the built-in feature manipulated our GPS coordinates on our Android mobile device to align with the location of our VPN server.
An excellent VPN for enhanced online security and privacy.
Surfshark stands out as a highly secure option, delivering many essential security features that are anticipated from top-tier VPN providers.
Across all its applications, the VPN employs AES-256 encryption, utilizes WireGuard as the default protocol, includes inbuilt IP and DNS leak protection, and features a VPN kill switch.
It’s noteworthy that the kill switch isn’t activated by default, which is a surprising aspect requiring attention. However, you can easily enable it through the settings menu.
Similar to ExpressVPN, Surfshark’s servers operate using RAM-based technology, ensuring that no data can be retrieved from them even in the case of a breach or server seizure.
Furthermore, Surfshark introduces a ‘Rotating IP’ function. When this feature is enabled, the VPN automatically changes your IP address every 5-10 minutes, all without altering the server location to which you’re connected.
The Rotating IP feature, which operated seamlessly during our experience, enhances your online anonymity and security while leaving your IP location unaffected.
A superb VPN option offered at an exceptionally affordable cost.
Another remarkable advantage of Surfshark lies in its pricing – it’s incredibly budget-friendly. What’s more, it holds the position of our top recommendation for an affordable VPN.
Starting at a mere $2.30 per month with a 26-month subscription plan, the VPN offers exceptional value. Even when paying the upfront fee of $59.76, the affordability remains impressive.
Often, when a VPN comes at such a low price, the quality might be compromised. However, this isn’t the scenario with Surfshark; it stands among the finest VPNs we have tested.
Languid server connections and moderate speeds.
The challenges encountered during our assessment of Surfshark predominantly pertain to unsatisfactory server connection times and speed performance.
Frequently, we experience delays of several seconds while attempting to establish connections to well-used servers. Moreover, the speeds achieved post-connection are not as rapid as those attained with ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
For connections over short distances, Surfshark VPN led to a 5% reduction in our internet speed. While this outcome isn’t inherently poor, it notably falls short of ExpressVPN’s 3% impact, highlighting a significant disparity.
Who benefits most from Surfshark?
Surfshark is highly recommended if:
- You’re seeking an economical VPN with robust security. With its two-year subscription priced at just $2.30 per month, Surfshark provides exceptional value.
- You require unrestricted simultaneous connections. Unlike numerous top-tier VPN services, Surfshark permits unlimited device connections under a single subscription.
Surfshark might not be suitable if:
- You rely on a VPN to overcome stringent internet censorship. The ‘NoBorders’ obfuscation mode in Surfshark may not consistently bypass censorship, particularly in regions like China.
- You frequently engage in torrenting. While Surfshark does support P2P traffic, it lacks port forwarding, IPv6 protection, and its kill switch is not enabled by default.
Visit Surfshark offical website.