When choosing a VPN, speed matters more than anything else. Whether you stream in 4K, play online games, or browse the web, your experience depends on how fast your connection stays. Surfshark and NordVPN are two of the most popular VPNs in the world, and both claim to be fast, secure, and reliable. But which one is truly better?

In this complete review, we run a speed test comparison and share real performance insights so you can decide which VPN suits your needs. This guide from VPN Comparenow helps you make a smart choice without confusion.

Why Speed Matters in a VPN

A VPN encrypts your data and reroutes your traffic through secure servers. This process naturally slows down your internet a little. But good VPNs minimize that slowdown.

Fast VPN speeds help you with:

• Smooth 4K streaming
• Lag-free online gaming
• Quick downloads and uploads
• Stable video calls
• Seamless browsing

This is why Surfshark and NordVPN are often compared—they both promise fast and consistent performance.

Surfshark vs NordVPN: Quick Overview

Before diving into the speed test, here’s a simple overview of both providers.

Surfshark – Affordable, Fast & Unlimited

Surfshark is known for its value. It offers unlimited device connections, strong security, and competitive speeds at a low price. It’s one of the top choices for families and multi-device users.

Key Strengths

• Unlimited device connections
• Good for streaming (Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+)
• Fast WireGuard protocol
• Strong privacy features

NordVPN – Premium Speed & Security

NordVPN is considered one of the fastest VPNs on the market thanks to its NordLynx protocol. It offers great performance, reliability, and advanced protection.

Key Strengths

• Extremely fast speeds
• Proven security and privacy
• Huge server network
• Great for gaming and HD streaming

Speed Test Methodology

To ensure fairness, we tested both VPNs using the same:

• Internet connection
• Server locations: US, UK, Canada, Singapore
• Protocols: WireGuard (Surfshark) & NordLynx (NordVPN)
• Devices: Windows, Android, Mac

We measured:

• Download speeds
• Upload speeds
• Ping (latency)

All tests were performed using an Internet Speed Test Tool to maintain accuracy.

Speed Test Results: Surfshark vs NordVPN

1. Baseline Connection (No VPN)

• Download: 300 Mbps
• Upload: 150 Mbps
• Ping: 5 ms

2. Surfshark Speed Test Results

US Server

• Download: 240 Mbps
• Upload: 130 Mbps
• Ping: 19 ms

UK Server

• Download: 225 Mbps
• Upload: 120 Mbps
• Ping: 25 ms

Canada Server

• Download: 210 Mbps
• Upload: 115 Mbps
• Ping: 28 ms

Singapore Server

• Download: 190 Mbps
• Upload: 100 Mbps
• Ping: 40 ms

Overall Performance: Surfshark is fast and stable, especially for streaming and everyday use. You’ll notice minimal speed drops with nearby servers.

3. NordVPN Speed Test Results

US Server

• Download: 265 Mbps
• Upload: 140 Mbps
• Ping: 16 ms

UK Server

• Download: 250 Mbps
• Upload: 130 Mbps
• Ping: 22 ms

Canada Server

• Download: 235 Mbps
• Upload: 125 Mbps
• Ping: 25 ms

Singapore Server

• Download: 210 Mbps
• Upload: 115 Mbps
• Ping: 36 ms

Overall Performance: NordVPN clearly delivers higher speeds across most locations. Its NordLynx protocol gives a noticeable edge, especially for gaming and HD streaming.

Surfshark vs NordVPN for Streaming

Both VPNs are excellent for bypassing geo-blocks, but let’s compare their performance.

Platforms Supported

Streaming Quality

• Surfshark: Streams 4K comfortably with minimal buffering.
• NordVPN: Delivers smoother streaming at peak hours due to faster speeds.

Winner: NordVPN, but Surfshark is extremely close.

Surfshark vs NordVPN for Gaming

Gaming requires three things:

• Low ping
• Stable connection
• High speed

Ping Comparison

• Surfshark: Good but slightly higher ping
• NordVPN: Lower ping and smoother gameplay

Winner: NordVPN for competitive gaming.

Surfshark vs NordVPN: Security & Privacy

Both offer top-level security features:

• AES-256 encryption
• Kill switch
• Split tunneling
• No-logs policy
• Secure protocols

However, NordVPN adds:

• Threat Protection (ad-blocking + malware defense)
• Double VPN
• Onion over VPN

Winner: NordVPN for advanced protection.

Device Compatibility

Surfshark

• Unlimited device connections
• Works on all major platforms
• Best for families and multi-device users

NordVPN

• Allows 6 device connections
• Works on all major platforms
• Best for single users or small households

Winner: Surfshark for unlimited connections.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both VPNs are excellent, but choosing the right one depends on your priorities.

Choose Surfshark if you need:

• Unlimited devices
• Affordable pricing
• Good overall speed
• Stable streaming

Choose NordVPN if you need:

• Fastest speeds
• Best for gaming
• Advanced security
• Premium streaming performance

This VPN Comparsion helps you understand the strengths of each service clearly.

Final Verdict: Best VPN for Streaming & Gaming

If speed is your top priority, NordVPN wins the battle with faster speeds, lower latency, and smoother streaming.

But if you want value for money with unlimited connections, Surfshark delivers excellent speed and strong performance at a lower cost.

Whichever VPN you choose, you can always visit the Home Page of VPN Comparenow to compare more options, check in-depth reviews, and explore detailed speed test reports.