Best Surfshark Alternatives in 2026
7 alternatives to Surfshark in VPN, ranked by our editorial score. Compare pricing, free tiers, and best-fit guidance side by side.
Top VPN Alternatives
| Tool | Score | Starting Price | Free Tier | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CyberGhost VPN | 74 | Free | ✓ | CyberGhost is best for everyday users who want a easy-to-use VPN with large serv | Compare vs Surfshark → |
| Private Internet Access PIA VPN | 67 | Free | ✓ | Budget-conscious privacy users who want a proven no-logs VPN with unlimited simu | Compare vs Surfshark → |
| Proton VPN | 62 | Free | ✓ | Privacy-conscious individuals who want a reliable, no-cost way to protect their | Compare vs Surfshark → |
| ExpressVPN | 55 | Free | ✓ | ExpressVPN is best for users who prioritize ease of use, speed, and reliable unb | Compare vs Surfshark → |
| NordVPN | 48 | 103 Kč/mo | Privacy-conscious users who want a large server network, strong no-logs protecti | Compare vs Surfshark → | |
| Mullvad VPN | 43 | 132 Kč/mo | Privacy purists who want a simple, anonymous VPN with a fair price and don't car | Compare vs Surfshark → | |
| Tailscale | 30 | Free | ✓ | Developers and teams wanting simple mesh networking | Compare vs Surfshark → |
Which Alternative Should You Choose?
Best for: CyberGhost is best for everyday users who want a easy-to-use VPN with large serv · Costs 3 Kč/mo less than Surfshark
⚖️ Surfshark vs CyberGhost VPN →
Best for: Budget-conscious privacy users who want a proven no-logs VPN with unlimited simu · Costs 6 Kč/mo less than Surfshark
⚖️ Surfshark vs Private Internet Access PIA VPN →Best for: Privacy-conscious individuals who want a reliable, no-cost way to protect their browsing, or power users willing to pay a low long-term rate
⚖️ Surfshark vs Proton VPN →Best for: ExpressVPN is best for users who prioritize ease of use, speed, and reliable unblocking of streaming services, and who are willing to pay a
⚖️ Surfshark vs ExpressVPN →❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the actual cost after the promotional price?
The $2.49/month price applies to the 2-year Starter plan billed upfront. After the initial term, renewal drops to the standard monthly or yearly rate, which is significantly higher — typically around $4-6/month depending on the plan and promotions.
Is there a free trial or free version?
Surfshark does not have a permanent free tier, but it offers a 7-day free trial on mobile devices (iOS and Android) and a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans, which effectively acts as a risk-free trial period.
How fast is Surfshark compared to other VPNs?
Surfshark is fast thanks to WireGuard support, but it's not always the absolute fastest. In independent speed tests, it typically lands in the upper mid-tier, with slightly lower speeds on long-distance connections compared to top performers like ExpressVPN or NordVPN.