Surfshark VPN vs. Mullvad VPN 2024: There’s a Clear Winner
Surfshark and Mullvad VPNs both have their fan bases, but we found that one was easier to use and offered more features overall.
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Last updated Jul 1, 2024
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Best for a bundled security stack
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Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Surfshark's website
Surfshark
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All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
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Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
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One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
Best for anonymity
/images/2022/12/01/logo-mullvad.png){kind=logo}
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Mullvad's website
Mullvad
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Anonymity features, such as cash payments and no email required
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Never-changing price of about $5 per month
Surfshark is a great virtual private network (VPN) that provides unlimited simultaneous connections and bundled services like antivirus and identity theft protection. If you’re less concerned about a bundled security stack and more concerned about strict anonymity, you’ll likely appreciate Mullvad VPN.
We found Surfshark to be more well-rounded. It offers a variety of features that support streaming and torrenting, as well as strong protection against data leaks.
Mullvad VPN falls short when supporting streaming and customer support but includes a fixed price that fits almost any budget.
We’re always searching for the best VPNs, so we’ve compared these two side-by-side.
In this article
Surfshark vs. Mullvad at a glanceSurfshark VPN vs. Mullvad VPN: Prices
Which VPN is faster?
Which VPN is more secure?
Surfshark VPN vs. Mullvad VPN: Compatibility and customer support
Surfshark VPN vs. Mullvad VPN FAQs
Is Surfshark VPN or Mullvad VPN better?
Surfshark vs. Mullvad at a glance
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your actual IP address and location, but you may want more than anonymity. Surfshark includes a host of features like split tunneling and unlimited simultaneous access, and it also allows you to bundle its VPN service with other security necessities like antivirus and even personal data removal.
Mullvad focuses heavily on anonymity and privacy and includes essential features like split tunneling and multiple protocol options.
How do Surfshark and Mullvad compare?
 |
 | |
| Price | From $2.19/mo (billed every two years) | From €5.00/mo (about $5.45/mo) |
| Max # of connected devices | Unlimited | Up to 5 devices |
| 24/7 customer support | ||
| Compatibility | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| # of servers | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | 600+ servers in 44 countries |
| VPN protocol | WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | ||
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Mullvad VPN
Read Mullvad VPN Review |
How we test and rate VPNs
We complete standardized hands-on tests for each VPN we review so we can put their claims to the test. This includes vigorous third-party testing by comparing our internet speed while connected to different servers, checking for DNS leaks, making sure the kill switch actually works, and more. We also make sure we can comfortably access popular streaming sites, like Netflix, and still do our day-to-day work without interruption.
Once we’ve completed the testing, our editorial rating is calculated by taking into account key features you’d expect from a good product. We score each VPN in the following categories and use a weighted average to calculate the final rating out of 5 stars: price, server count, speed, security, and features.
To learn more about how we test, check out our full VPN methodology here.
Surfshark VPN pros and cons
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, a rare feature for most VPNs. It also has extras like CleanWeb, which keeps you safe from ads and trackers.
Surfshark ranges between $2.19–$17.95/mo and offers the most overall savings when you purchase longer-term plans.
Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Works with Netflix and other streaming services
- Strict no-logs policy and no data breaches
- Loads of extra features like static IP and rotating IP
Cons
- Antivirus and threat monitoring are extra
- Headquartered in Nine Eyes alliance
Mullvad VPN pros and cons
Mullvad has only one price, €5.00/mo (about $5.45/mo), which will stay unchanged no matter how long you use it. It offers necessary VPN features like split tunneling and has a strict no-logs policy.
Anonymity is a top priority for Mullvad, and its users tend to value it over any other feature.
Pros
- Strict no-logs policy with independent audits
- Never-changing price
- Anonymity features, such as cash payments and no email required
- Unblocks Netflix
Cons
- Low server count compared to other VPNs
- Struggles with non-Netflix streaming platforms
- No 24/7 customer service or live chat option
Surfshark VPN vs. Mullvad VPN: Prices
|
Our Pick | |
| Price range | $2.19–$17.95/mo | €5.00/mo (about $5.45/mo) |
| Best value plan | 24-month SurfShark One plan for $2.69/mo (billed every two years) | Mullvad Monthly for €5.00/mo (about $5.45/mo) |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 30 days | Yes — 30 days |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Mullvad VPN
Read Mullvad VPN Review |
Surfshark ranges $2.19–$17.95/mo depending on your plan, how long of a term you purchase, and if you want any extras. We think the 24-month Surfshark One plan for $2.69/mo (billed every two years) that includes antivirus is a great compromise between features and price.
Mullvad offers only one price, €5.00/mo (about $5.45/mo), no matter how long you use the VPN, which can help you save money on a VPN if you only need it for a short time. While this simplifies things, it also means you miss out on features and services that other VPNs offer, like a live customer support representative.
Still, the simple pricing structure and adherence to strict anonymity make Mullvad a favorite of those who favor extreme privacy.
Payment options
In some parts of the world or for some customers, absolute anonymity is a must when using a VPN. However, all of Surfshark’s payment options can be tied to some form of identification, which might not sit well with a person in a region where VPNs are illegal (like Russia).
Even Surfshark’s crypto option has to be through CoinGate, which may keep some records of your identity.
Mullvad offers several options, including cash and vouchers, that lend themselves to complete anonymity.
Surfshark VPN payment options
- Credit or debit card
- PayPal
- Google Pay
- Amazon Pay
- Cryptocurrency through CoinGate (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more)
Mullvad VPN payment options
- Cash
- Vouchers
- Cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and bitcoin cash
- Credit cards
- PayPal
- Other payment options include bank wire, Swish, GiroPay, EPS transfer, Bancontact, iDEAL, and Przelewy24
Winner: Mullvad. Even though Surfshark can be lower for longer plans, Mullvad has a simple pricing structure and anonymous payment options.
Which VPN is faster?
We test internet speeds to make sure the VPN you choose is usable. If you activate your VPN and it makes your connection worse than dial-up, you’ll likely turn it off and never use it again.
Below, we compare the percentage of slowdown we experienced when testing these VPNs on different servers. Anything under 10% is excellent, but you won’t notice a lag until it begins getting up around 30%.
Even then, depending on the base speeds, your internet is likely to still be usable. If you start with slower base speeds — under 100 Mbps download — then you’ll find it more difficult to use your VPN the higher the slowdown percentage.
You should know that the further you are physically from the server you’re trying to access, the more likely your connection will be slower. This lag time increases when you use a double VPN or have other processes running in the background.
If you’re unsure of your base speed, you can always use the Ookla speed test to find out before you turn on your VPN.
| Server location | Our Pick |
|
| US | 3.6% slower | 16.73% slower |
| Canada | 8.6% slower | 27% slower |
| UK | 9.1% slower | 54% slower |
| AU | 33.83% slower | 34.21% slower |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Mullvad VPN
Read Mullvad VPN Review |
Surfshark slowed to a noticeable 33.83% on the Australian server but held up well with the other servers we tested. The Australian slowdown was significantly less than many of the other VPNs we see, so this was worth noting.
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Mullvad VPN had okay speed test results for the U.S. and Canada, but it took a few tries to get a stable connection to a U.K. server. The download speed test results when connected to the Manchester server were surprisingly poor compared to other international servers. The AU server test was on par with Surfshark, but overall, we noticed a significant impact on system performance when connected to Mullvad VPN servers.
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Winner: Surfshark. It had consistently faster speeds across more server options.
Which VPN is more secure?
| Feature | Our Pick |
|
| Number of servers | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | 600+ servers in 44 countries |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| VPN headquarters | The Netherlands | Sweden |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | Unspecified |
| VPN protocol | WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN |
| Kill switch | ||
| Split tunneling | ||
| DNS leak protection | ||
| Ad blocker | ||
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Mullvad VPN
Read Mullvad VPN Review |
A lot of discourse online surrounding Mullvad says it offers strict anonymity, and considering its independent third-party audits, ability to pay anonymously, and tight security, we would agree.
However, it lacks a reliable kill switch, doesn’t disclose its encryption style, only offers two protocols, and lists fewer servers in fewer locations than Surfshark.
/images/2022/12/01/mullvad-vpn-review_07.jpg)
Kill switches protect your personal information in the event the VPN connection drops. In our testing, Mullvad disabled our internet when we switched servers, but it created a massive glitch that caused us to troubleshoot our connection. It was definitely not a seamless kill switch.
Surfshark, on the other hand, worked seamlessly. It offered us at least one more VPN protocol, had an actual kill switch, and gave us plenty of server options. We also liked that Surfshark disclosed its encryption.
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Given that both protect us from DNS and WebRTC leaks, we prefer Surfshark for its greater transparency and cleaner security features.
Winner: Surfshark. It offers more features and transparency, and its security features work seamlessly.
Surfshark VPN vs. Mullvad VPN: Compatibility and customer support
Our Pick |
| |
| Windows | ||
| macOS | ||
| Android | ||
| iOS | ||
| Linux | ||
| Routers | ||
| Smart devices | ||
| Browser extensions | Yes — Chrome, Firefox, Edge | Yes — Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| 24/7 customer support | ||
| Customer support options | Live chat, email, online guides | Email, online guides |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Mullvad VPN
Read Mullvad VPN Review |
Surfshark has a clean, modern look with easily accessible controls. If you bundle, your antivirus and data broker removal information are also housed in an easy-to-use dashboard that lets you toggle between features.
Mullvad’s features are easy to find and use, but we found its interface a bit more dated.
The biggest difference between these two regarding compatibility and support is Mullvad’s lack of accessible support options. Normally, we wouldn’t harp on this, but considering Mullvad gave us several glitches, it might become annoying to wait for an email response from support.
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Surfshark at least has the option of a 24/7 live chat.
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Winner: Surfshark. Nothing beats live 24/7 support.
Surfshark VPN vs. Mullvad VPN FAQs
+
Is Surfshark part of 14 Eyes?
Yes. Surfshark is located in the Netherlands, within the 14 Eyes Alliance. Surfshark notes that it doesn’t keep logs but collects the data necessary to provide you with a service.
If you pay for Surfshark with an electronic account like a debit card, there will be a record that you at least purchased a VPN. Your actual activity, though, is never stored.
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Should I leave Surfshark on all the time?
There is no harm in leaving Surfshark on all the time, but your internet speeds may dictate whether or not you want to. If you’re watching geo-restricted content in Japan, you may want to turn Surfshark off or split tunnel your traffic when you log into your banking app.
If you’re accessing shared internet, like in a cafe or while on vacation at a hotel, it’s a good idea to leave your VPN connected the entire time so your devices are protected.
+
Does Mullvad keep credit card information?
Mullvad will process your credit card information, but it doesn’t appear to actually store it. Know that if you choose to pay for security services with a credit card, it creates a paper trail.
If you want true anonymity, Mullvad offers cash and voucher payments to help you completely avoid paper trails.
Is Surfshark VPN or Mullvad VPN better?
Overall, Surfshark is the better VPN choice. It offers more servers, consistent speeds, 24/7 live support, and the option to use more features and services.
Mullvad is great for anonymity, but its useability is sometimes hindered. Depending on the device you are using, the VPN services may create glitches or issues.
For a cleaner and smoother experience, Surfshark is the better choice.
/images/2022/09/02/logo-surfshark-vpn.png){kind=logo}
Surfshark
-
All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
-
Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
-
One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
Surfshark VPN vs. Mullvad VPN alternatives
If you’ve compared Surfshark and Mullvad, but neither meets your needs, try one of our other suggestions below. These are some of the best VPNs available on the market, and we’ve tested each one for quality.
|
|
|
|
| Price | $3.39–$15.99/mo | $2.03–$11.99/mo | $2.03–$12.99/mo |
| Free version | |||
| Max # of connected devices | 10 | Unlimited | 7 |
| # of servers | 6,400+ servers in 111 countries | Servers in 91 countries | Servers in 100 countries |
| VPN protocol | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES-128-GCM | AES 256-bit |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs | No logs |
| Headquarters | Panama | United States | Romania |
| Netflix access | |||
| Learn more | Get NordVPN | Get Private Internet Access | Get CyberGhost |
Surfshark
-
All-in-one VPN app with 24/7 protection thanks to 3,200+ RAM-only servers in over 100 countries
-
Real-time malware defense, webcam protection, alternative ID creation, ad blocking, and more
-
One subscription covers unlimited devices for your entire household with access to 24/7 support
Author Details
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Mary is a seasoned cybersecurity writer with over seven years of experience. With a B.S. in Liberal Arts from Clarion University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Point Park University, she educates audiences on scams, antivirus software, and more. Her passion lies in educating audiences on helpful ways to protect their data.
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