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Updated November 6, 2026

Surfshark alternatives in 2026: 5 tools compared

Surfshark: Affordable VPN with unlimited devices. People look for alternatives when they need a lower price, a free plan or a better fit for a specific job.

These 5 tools cover similar ground. Each entry explains who it suits, how pricing works and what to watch out for.

Key takeaways

  • ExpressVPN: users wanting a simple, reliable VPN.
  • Mullvad VPN: privacy-focused users who want minimal data collection.
  • NordVPN: everyday users wanting speed, privacy and streaming.
  • Private Internet Access: users who like configuring their VPN.
  • Proton VPN: privacy-minded users and anyone wanting a trustworthy free VPN.

Quick comparison

ToolBest forPricingFree plan
ExpressVPNUsers wanting a simple, reliable VPNPaidNo
Mullvad VPNPrivacy-focused users who want minimal data collectionPaidNo
NordVPNEveryday users wanting speed, privacy and streamingPaidNo
Private Internet AccessUsers who like configuring their VPNPaidNo
Proton VPNPrivacy-minded users and anyone wanting a trustworthy free VPNFreemiumYes

The best Surfshark alternatives

1.

ExpressVPN

Best for: Users wanting a simple, reliable VPN

Premium VPN known for reliability and ease of use.

Paid

Paid plans. Check the vendor for current pricing.

Who it suits: Users wanting a simple, reliable VPN.

What we like

  • Very reliable
  • Easy to use
  • Router support

Watch out for

  • Premium price
  • Fewer simultaneous devices on cheaper plans
Full ExpressVPN review

2.

Mullvad VPN

Best for: Privacy-focused users who want minimal data collection

Privacy-first VPN with anonymous accounts and one flat price.

Paid

Paid plans. Check the vendor for current pricing.

Who it suits: Privacy-focused users who want minimal data collection.

What we like

  • Excellent privacy
  • Simple flat pricing
  • No email needed

Watch out for

  • Not built for streaming
  • Fewer extra features
Full Mullvad VPN review

3.

NordVPN

Best for: Everyday users wanting speed, privacy and streaming

Fast, popular VPN with audited no-logs policy.

Paid

Paid plans. Check the vendor for current pricing.

Who it suits: Everyday users wanting speed, privacy and streaming.

What we like

  • Fast speeds
  • Audited
  • Many features

Watch out for

  • Renewal price higher
  • Aggressive marketing
Full NordVPN review

5.

Proton VPN

Best for: Privacy-minded users and anyone wanting a trustworthy free VPN

Privacy-focused Swiss VPN with an unlimited free plan.

Freemium

Free plan available. Paid plans add more features and limits.

Who it suits: Privacy-minded users and anyone wanting a trustworthy free VPN.

What we like

  • Best free VPN plan
  • Open source
  • Strong privacy

Watch out for

  • Free plan has limited server choice
  • Paid plan pricier than some
Full Proton VPN review

How we chose

  • Every tool on this list does the core job of VPN services, so it can replace Surfshark for most people.
  • We weighed pricing and free plans, ease of use, and the trade-offs you take on when switching.
  • Pricing comes from each vendor’s public pricing page and changes often, so confirm before you buy.

Buying guide: what to check before you switch

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, which helps on public Wi-Fi and for privacy. Look for independently audited no-logs policies and good speeds.

  • Audited no-logs policy
  • Speed and server locations
  • Devices per account
  • Streaming support

Prices and features change often. Check each vendor’s website for current plans before you buy.