Surfshark offers unlimited connections from $2.19/month, but speeds can be inconsistent and streaming access is unreliable. Here are the best VPN alternatives — from privacy-first free options to premium providers with faster servers.
Each app below addresses a specific gap in Surfshark's offering. We picked them based on real user review patterns and feature differentiation.
The industry leader with 7,300+ servers in 118 countries and enterprise-grade security features including Double VPN, Onion over VPN, and Threat Protection. Consistently faster and more reliable for streaming than Surfshark.
Explore NordVPN data →Based in the British Virgin Islands with 3,000+ servers in 105 countries. Known for consistently fast speeds on distant servers and excellent streaming unblocking. Supports a wide range of devices including routers and smart TVs.
Explore ExpressVPN data →Swiss-based VPN with a genuine free tier — no data caps, no ads. Secure Core servers route traffic through privacy-friendly countries. Open-source apps with independent security audits. The best option if privacy matters more than speed.
Explore Proton VPN data →One of the most affordable VPNs on the market with fully open-source apps that anyone can audit. Supports unlimited devices, includes a SOCKS5 proxy for torrenting, and has a proven no-logs policy verified in court twice.
Explore Private Internet Access data →Over 11,000 servers worldwide with dedicated profiles for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. The app labels optimized servers by use case, making it easy for beginners to pick the right connection. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Explore CyberGhost data →The most privacy-respecting VPN available — no email, no name, no personal information required. Uses a randomly generated account number instead of credentials. Flat-rate pricing with no upsells. Ideal for users who want pure privacy over features.
Explore Mullvad VPN data →We found these alternatives by analyzing review patterns across hundreds of VPN apps. Users switching from Surfshark most commonly cite inconsistent speeds, renewal price hikes, and streaming detection issues as their reasons for exploring alternatives.
Proton VPN is the best free option — it offers unlimited data with no ads, which is rare among free VPNs. The free tier covers servers in five countries with decent speeds. For full server access and streaming support, the paid Plus plan starts at $2.99/month.
NordVPN is generally considered more reliable for streaming, faster on distant servers, and stronger on advanced security features like Double VPN and dedicated IP. Surfshark wins on price and unlimited device connections. If budget is your priority, Surfshark is solid; if reliability matters most, NordVPN edges ahead.
NordVPN and ExpressVPN are the most reliable for unblocking streaming services in 2026. Both consistently bypass geo-blocks on Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. Surfshark works but is less consistent — connections occasionally get detected and blocked.
We analyze App Store metadata, review patterns, and user migration data to surface the best alternatives objectively — no sponsored placements or affiliate rankings.
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