Tired of internet restrictions or worried about staying anonymous online? VPNs offer a secure gateway to unrestricted browsing, and in 2025, they are more vital than ever.
Over the last three years, I’ve tested a wide range of VPNs—from free versions to premium providers. Among the many, Surfshark has solidified its place in my top three. It offers excellent performance, powerful security, and wallet-friendly pricing.
In this updated 2025 Surfshark VPN review, I’ll break down its features, evaluate its pros and cons, and help you decide if it’s the ideal choice for your online privacy. Apart from this, information has been provided about the Top 5 Best VPN Services in India.
Quick Summary
Surfshark hosts servers in 100 countries and provides all the essential VPN functionalities. It shines with features like CleanWeb, Multi-Hop, and an ad blocker. Its speed, security, and allowance for unlimited device connections make it a standout. Despite minor feature gaps and jurisdictional considerations, it remains one of the best VPNs in India for value and performance.
Surfshark VPN Review Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
| Rating | 4.3 out of 5 ⭐️ |
| Speeds | Download: 190 Mbps, Upload: 83 Mbps |
| No Log Policy | Yes |
| Audit | Conducted by Deloitte (2023) |
| Streaming Support | Netflix, Amazon, Zee5, BBC, Hotstar |
| Servers | 3200+ servers in 100 countries |
| Compatible Devices | Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, Routers |
| Pricing | $2.09/month (2-year plan) |
| Coupon Code | 4 additional months FREE with a special offer |
About Surfshark
Founded in 2018 by Vytautas Kaziukonis, Surfshark began as a VPN provider and has evolved into a full-scale cybersecurity company. It now offers services like data leak detection, private browsing, antivirus, and tools to erase your personal data from the web.
Originally based in the British Virgin Islands, Surfshark relocated to the Netherlands in 2021 and operates from Lithuania and Poland as well. Their mission? Empower users with easy-to-use security tools and complete control over online privacy. With over 12.4 million app downloads and 30+ cybersecurity awards, their growth is evident.
Surfshark VPN Speed Test Results
I used speedtest.net for evaluating Surfshark’s performance with a baseline of 240 Mbps and 7 ms ping.
| Location | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) | Ping (ms) |
| India (Baseline) | 240 | 240 | 7 |
| India (Surfshark) | 190 | 83 | 319 |
| USA (Surfshark) | 182 | 85 | 300 |
India Server: Download speed fell by 20.83% to 190 Mbps, while upload dropped 65.42% to 83 Mbps. Ping was moderate at 319 ms.
USA Server: A 24.17% drop in download speed (182 Mbps) and a 64.58% reduction in upload (85 Mbps) was observed. Ping held steady at 300 ms.
Compared to Competitors:
- Surfshark slightly beats ExpressVPN on Indian servers but falls short on US speeds.
- It surpasses NordVPN on US servers with better download/upload speeds.
Surfshark Server Network
- Global Reach: 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, including virtual servers in Delhi and Mumbai for Indian users.
- 10Gbps Upgrades: Recent transition from 1Gbps to 10Gbps servers boosts speed and performance.
- More Country Coverage: While NordVPN has more servers, Surfshark covers more countries—ideal for global access.
RAM-Only Servers: Ensures no data is stored on physical disks, enhancing privacy.
Camouflage Mode: Obfuscates VPN usage and is automatically enabled using OpenVPN protocol.
Dynamic vs. Static IP
Surfshark offers both:
- Dynamic IP: Assigned randomly for each connection to maintain anonymity.
- Static IP (Dedicated IP): Available as a paid add-on in select locations including:
- USA: Los Angeles, Dallas, San Jose
- UK: London
- Germany: Frankfurt
- France: Paris
- Italy: Milan
- Netherlands, Australia, Japan
Streaming and Gaming Performance
| Streaming Service | Supported? |
| Netflix | ✅ |
| Hotstar | ✅ |
| JioCinema | ✅ |
| SonyLiv | ✅ |
| Zee5 | ✅ |
| Amazon Prime (US) | ✅ |
Surfshark supports all major Indian and international platforms with smooth 4K streaming. It works on Apple TV, Xbox, PS, and all major operating systems. Ping for gaming is acceptable (50–100 ms), but NordVPN performs slightly better for gaming latency.
Privacy and No-Log Policy
- Zero Logging of Browsing Activity: No storage of IP addresses, session info, or traffic data.
- Minimal Connection Logs: Temporary data like timestamps, deleted after 15 minutes.
- No-Logs Audit: Verified by Deloitte in 2023.
- Additional Transparency: Quarterly reports reveal government data requests.
Independent Security Audits
- Deloitte (2023): Verified no user tracking and strong security infrastructure.
- Cure53 (2018 & 2021): Confirmed integrity of Surfshark’s browser extensions and server infrastructure.
- MASA for Android App: Validated safe mobile operations.
Security Protocols & Features
- WireGuard: Fast and modern protocol.
- IKEv2: Ideal for mobile users.
- OpenVPN: Widely trusted open-source option.
DNS Leak Test: Surfshark passed with no detectable leaks.
Kill Switch: Disconnects your internet if the VPN fails to prevent IP exposure.
Pricing Plans
| Plan | 1 Month | 1 Year | 2 Years |
| Surfshark Starter | $15.45 | $47.84 ($2.99/mo) | $58.52 ($2.09/mo) |
| Surfshark One | $17.95 | $49.44 ($3.09/mo) | $72.52 ($2.59/mo) |
| Surfshark One+ | $20.65 | $91.04 ($5.69/mo) | $114.52 ($4.09/mo) |
Note: Surfshark One+ includes Incogni (for US users).
Free Trial & Refunds:
- 7-Day Free Trial: Via Google Play or App Store (12-month plan required).
- 30-Day Guarantee: Full refund via direct Surfshark website purchases.
Payment Methods
- Credit/Debit Cards
- PayPal
- Cryptocurrency (for anonymity)
Competitor Comparison:
- Surfshark: $2.99/month
- NordVPN: $4.59/month
- ExpressVPN: $6.67/month
Coupon Code: Extra 4 months free on annual plans.
Customer Support
| Support Option | Availability |
| 24/7 Live Chat | ✅ |
| Phone Support | ❌ |
| Email Assistance | ✅ |
| FAQs & Tutorials | ✅ |
Surfshark provides extensive self-help tools, including video tutorials and setup guides. However, no phone support and limited bot responses in live chat may be drawbacks.
Torrenting & P2P
Surfshark fully supports torrenting and works seamlessly with:
- uTorrent
- BitTorrent
- qBittorrent
- Transmission
- Vuze
- Deluge
Observed download speed: 143.8 Kbps (1 hr 16 min estimated download time).
Bonus Features
- Bypasser (Split Tunneling): Choose apps/websites to bypass or use the VPN.
- CleanWeb: Ad-blocker and anti-tracker across platforms.
- NoBorders Mode: Automatically triggers in restricted networks.
- Multi-hop VPN: Double-layer encryption.
- Alternative ID: Generates temporary email & US phone number.
- Antivirus: Protects up to 5 devices (Surfshark One/One+ users).
- Alert: Monitors sensitive data leaks.
User Interface Across Platforms
| Platform | Experience |
| Windows | Full-featured, intuitive |
| macOS | Similar, but lacks Bypasser |
| Linux | Simplified, fewer features |
| Android/iOS | Sleek UI, Android has more tools |
| Browser Add-on | Lightweight, includes CleanWeb |
Android app includes a home screen widget. However, not all features are supported on macOS, iOS, or Linux.
My Experience & Verdict
After three years of consistent use, Surfshark remains one of the top three VPNs I trust. Its pricing, wide array of features, and impressive speeds make it a powerful tool. It performs well in nearly every scenario—streaming, security, torrenting.
Minor downsides like jurisdiction and missing features on some platforms are worth noting but don’t outweigh the benefits.
Pros
- Fast speeds for streaming & gaming
- Unlimited devices
- Top-tier encryption & security protocols
- Multi-hop VPN
- Budget-friendly plans
- Feature-rich (CleanWeb, Bypasser, etc.)
- Built-in ad/malware blocker
- Advanced tools beyond VPN (Search, ID, Antivirus)
Cons
- Logs IP address (briefly)
- Headquartered in a Nine Eyes alliance country
- No new audit post-2023
Final Thoughts: Is Surfshark Worth It?
Despite minor drawbacks, Surfshark offers robust security, modern features, and budget pricing. It’s an all-in-one VPN provider that’s ideal for most users in India.
Got questions or want another software review? Drop a comment!
FAQs
Q-1: Is Surfshark the best VPN provider in 2025?
A-1: While Surfshark may not hold the absolute number one spot, it consistently ranks in the top 3 VPNs due to its robust security, competitive pricing, and reliable performance across streaming, torrenting, and privacy features.
Q-2: Is Surfshark VPN based in China?
A-2: No, Surfshark is not based in China. Originally founded in the British Virgin Islands, the company moved its headquarters to the Netherlands in 2021 to enhance transparency and compliance with EU regulations.
Q-3: Is Surfshark secure for browsing and streaming?
A-3: Absolutely. Surfshark uses AES-256-GCM encryption, secure VPN protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, and features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection to ensure complete online safety.
Q-4: Does Surfshark offer a free version or free trial?
A-4: Surfshark does not have a permanent free version. However, it provides a 7-day free trial on mobile platforms and a 30-day money-back guarantee for all new subscribers.
Q-5: Is Surfshark suitable for torrenting and P2P sharing?
A-5: Yes, Surfshark supports P2P traffic on all its servers and is compatible with popular torrent clients like uTorrent, BitTorrent, and qBittorrent, making it ideal for safe and efficient torrenting.
Q-6: How can I activate Surfshark’s Camouflage Mode?
A-6: Camouflage Mode is automatically enabled when you use the OpenVPN protocol (TCP or UDP) in the Surfshark settings. It masks your VPN traffic to bypass government censorship and network restrictions.
Q-7: What is the most cost-effective Surfshark plan?
A-7: The best value plan is the Surfshark Starter 2-year subscription, priced at just $58.52. For added features like antivirus and data breach alerts, the Surfshark One plan at $72.52 for two years is recommended.
Q-8: Does Surfshark VPN track or log my activity?
A-8: No. Surfshark follows a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your browsing activity, IP addresses, and session data are never tracked or stored.
Q-9: Is it legal to use Surfshark VPN in India?
A-9: Yes, using Surfshark VPN is legal in India. Although Indian regulations now require VPNs to log data, Surfshark complies by using virtual Indian servers while still upholding its no-logs commitment.
