Surfshark vs Mullvad VPN
Surfshark and Mullvad VPN consistently rank among the top VPNs, but they take different approaches to security, speed, and features. After testing both extensively, I've found they each excel in distinct areas. Surfshark edges ahead with a 9/10 rating, but that doesn't mean it's the right choice for everyone.
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Quick Answer
Surfshark beats Mullvad VPN for most users. It scores 9/10 vs 8.5/10 and unlimited simultaneous connections. Choose Mullvad VPN if you need no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number.
Surfshark
WinnerBest budget VPN with unlimited devices and 4,500+ servers
Starting from
$1.99/mo
Mullvad VPN
Privacy-first VPN with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing
Starting from
$4.75/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $1.99/mo | $4.75/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Performance | ||
| Servers | 4,500+ | 700+ |
| Countries | 100 | 49 |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | 5 |
| Security | ||
| Kill Switch | ||
| No Logs Policy | ||
| Double VPN | ||
| RAM-Only Servers | ||
| Features | ||
| Split Tunneling | ||
| Streaming Support | ||
| Torrenting | ||
| Dedicated IP | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Surfshark
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan)
- 4,500+ RAM-only 10Gbps servers
- CleanWeb ad and malware blocker
- GPS spoofing on Android
- NoBorders mode for censored regions
- No-logs policy audited
- Speeds can be inconsistent
- Customer support response times vary
- Renewal pricing higher ($6.58/mo)
Mullvad VPN
- No personal information required - just a 16-digit account number
- Simple flat pricing of €5/month with no upsells
- RAM-only servers that don't retain data
- Post-quantum encryption support (DAITA)
- Accepts cash and cryptocurrency payments
- Partnership with Tor Project for Mullvad Browser
- All servers are 10-20 Gbps
- Doesn't work with Netflix or most streaming services
- Only 5 simultaneous device connections
- Smaller server network (700+ servers)
- No dedicated mobile apps features
Key Difference
The key difference: Surfshark offers streaming support while Mullvad VPN provides post quantum. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Surfshark
Choose Surfshark if you prioritize unlimited simultaneous connections, need unlimited usage, or value very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan).
Mullvad VPN
Choose Mullvad VPN if you prioritize no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number, or value simple flat pricing of €5/month with no upsells.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Surfshark is our winner with a rating of 9/10 compared to Mullvad VPN's 8.5/10. Surfshark stands out for its unlimited simultaneous connections and very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan). While Mullvad VPN is more affordable, Surfshark's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, Mullvad VPN remains an excellent choice if no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Switching VPNs is straightforward - just cancel your subscription and sign up for the new service. Both Surfshark and Mullvad VPN offer money-back guarantees, so you can try before fully committing. No data migration is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark better than Mullvad VPN?
Surfshark scores higher in our testing (9/10 vs 8.5/10). Surfshark excels at unlimited simultaneous connections, while Mullvad VPN is better for no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number.
Which is cheaper, Surfshark or Mullvad VPN?
Mullvad VPN is more affordable at $5.50/mo vs $15.45/mo. Mullvad VPN offers 64% savings.
Surfshark vs Mullvad VPN: which should I choose?
Choose Surfshark if you prioritize unlimited simultaneous connections. Choose Mullvad VPN if you need no personal information required - just a 16-digit account number. Both are solid vpns options.
What's the main difference between Surfshark and Mullvad VPN?
The main difference is Surfshark offers best budget vpn with unlimited devices and 4,500+ servers, while Mullvad VPN focuses on privacy-first vpn with anonymous accounts and flat €5/month pricing.