Honest Surfshark VPN Review
Is Surfshark actually a good VPN or is it garbage? Here's my take, based on trying a bunch of different VPNs: if you want a premium VPN at a more affordable price than competitors like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, go with Surfshark. The VPN is user-friendly, packed with features, and well-suited for streaming. Pros --> Camouflage Mode: Surfshark not only hid my browsing activity but also concealed my VPN use entirely. This feature makes it an ideal choice for users in countries with strict VPN regulations, such as China and Russia. --> Flexible and reliable connections: Surfshark provides multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and the newer WireGuard, ensuring versatile and robust performance. --> Unlimited simultaneous connections: I could connect as many devices as I wanted to Surfshark without restrictions, which added tremendous convenience. Cons --> Based in the Netherlands: The Netherlands benefits from privacy-friendly data retention laws; however, it is part of the Nine Eyes alliance, meaning the government can require Surfshark to disclose customer information if needed. --> Occasionally lags on Windows. Surfshark Features Overview Kill switch: yes Split tunneling: yes VPN protocols: WireGuard and OpenVPN Obfuscation: NoBorders Mode and Camouflage Mode Servers: 3,200+ in 100 countries (all RAM-based) Surfshark Company Background It's wise to research the VPN provider you’re considering to ensure they prioritize protecting your data, rather than profiting from it. Surfshark’s base in the Netherlands is a positive factor, given the country’s privacy-friendly data retention laws. However, as part of an international group of countries that share intelligence, the Netherlands can compel companies within its jurisdiction to disclose customer data. Fortunately, Surfshark enforces a “no-logs” policy, meaning it won’t store any sensitive browsing data, such as the files you download or websites you visit. It’s worth noting, though, that Surfshark does temporarily log users' IP addresses, which many trusted VPNs avoid.