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The All About Cookies editorial team strives to provide accurate, in-depth information and reviews to help you, our reader, make online privacy decisions with confidence. Here's what you can expect from us:
Best for budget-conscious users
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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
Best for beginners
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VPN part of the trusted Norton security suite
Unblocks multiple streaming services
When looking for online privacy, a seamless streaming experience, and overall internet security, choosing the right virtual private network (VPN) can be a difficult task. Surfshark VPN and Norton Secure VPN stand out amongst the crowd as two popular options, each catering to different needs.
Surfshark VPN is affordable, starting at $2.19/mo (billed biannually), and has an extensive feature set. Boasting over 3,200 servers in 100 countries and having a strict no-logs policy, Surfshark is a top pick for those looking for online privacy on a budget.
Meanwhile, Norton Secure VPN boasts an intuitive interface and seamlessly integrates with Norton’s suite of security products, making it convenient for those already invested in the Norton ecosystem.
We’ll break down and compare these two VPNs, offering our opinion on which is better regarding features, speed tests, customer support, and more.
Surfshark is one of the best VPNs, renowned for being affordable, having a good range of servers, as well as robust security features, making it suitable for anyone seeking top-tier protection on a budget.
In contrast, Norton Secure VPN may be a better fit for anyone new to VPNs or already within the Norton universe.
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| Price | From $3.50/mo | From $29.99/yr (first year only) |
| Max # of connected devices | Unlimited | 1-10 |
| 24/7 customer support | ||
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more |
| # of servers | 3,200+ in 100 countries | Unlisted number in 28 countries |
| VPN protocol | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2 | OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, Mimic (Proprietary protocol) |
| No-logs policy | No logs | No logs |
| Unblocks Netflix? | Limited | |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Norton Secure VPN
Read Norton Secure VPN Review |
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 stands out for its extensive server network, robust security protocols, and ability to unblock streaming services like Netflix across multiple regions. Users benefit from unlimited device connections and additional features like CleanWeb (ad blocker) and Bypasser (which allows specific apps and websites to bypass the VPN).
Despite being based in the Netherlands, which is a member of the Nine Eyes alliance, Surfshark upholds a strict no-logs policy that is subject to auditing by Deloitte.
Norton Secure VPN, part of the well-known Norton security suite, is easy to use and very reliable. It provides strong encryption, supports multiple simultaneous connections, and unblocks several streaming services.
However, it lacks some advanced features like an ad blocker and malware blocker, which are common in other top-tier VPNs. Norton is also based in the U.S., which is a part of the Five Eyes alliance.
Our Pick |
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| Price range | $2.19–$17.95/mo | $2.49–$4.99/mo for the first yr |
| Best value plan | 24-month plan for $2.19/mo (billed biannually) | Annual plan for $29.99/yr (first year only) |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes — 30 days | Yes — 60 days |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Norton Secure VPN
Read Norton Secure VPN Review |
Surfshark VPN offers a price range of $2.19–$17.95/mo, with the best value coming from its 24-month plan priced at $2.19/mo (billed biannually).
The 24-month plan includes essential features such as unlimited simultaneous connections, strong security protocols, and the ability to unblock streaming services.
Norton Secure VPN’s prices range from $2.49–$4.99/mo for the first yr. The best value plan is the annual plan at $29.99/yr (first year only). This plan is ideal for users who want reliable VPN service with strong encryption and access to multiple streaming services at a competitive price.
Additionally, Norton provides a 60-day money-back guarantee on annual plans, allowing users to test the service risk free.
Both Surfshark VPN and Norton Secure VPN offer a variety of payment options to accommodate different preferences and enhance user privacy.
Using anonymous payment methods like cryptocurrency can provide an additional layer of privacy for users concerned about revealing personal information.
To determine which VPN offers the best performance, we conducted a series of internet speed tests while connected to both Surfshark VPN and Norton Secure VPN. These tests were performed on a Windows PC using servers in different locations: the U.S., Canada, the UK, and Australia.
The aim was to measure the impact of each VPN on internet speed, including download and upload speeds, as well as latency.
It’s worth noting that the Surfshark VPN tests were performed in the U.S. and the Norton Secure VPN tests in Canada, hence why their respective local server connections have the lowest decrease in speed.
| Server location | Our Pick |
|
| U.S. | 3.6% slower | 31% slower |
| Canada | 8.6% slower | 22% slower |
| UK | 9.1% slower | 24% slower |
| AU | 33.8% slower | 58% slower |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Norton Secure VPN
Read Norton Secure VPN Review |
During our tests, we observed that Surfshark VPN had minimal impact on internet speed, with only slight slowdowns across various server locations. The most significant reduction was seen with the Australian server, which was expected due to the physical distance from the test location.
In contrast, Norton Secure VPN showed more substantial slowdowns, particularly with servers in Australia, where the speed decreased by 58%.
| Feature | Our Pick |
|
| Number of servers | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | Unlisted number of servers in 28 countries |
| No-logs policy | No logs (audited by Deloitte) | No logs |
| VPN headquarters | The Netherlands | Tempe, Arizona, U.S. |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM | AES-256 |
| VPN protocol | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2 | OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, Mimic (proprietary protocol) |
| Kill switch | ||
| Split tunneling | ||
| DNS leak protection | ||
| Ad blocker | ||
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Norton Secure VPN
Read Norton Secure VPN Review |
Surfshark VPN excels in providing a wide range of security features, including a strict no-logs policy, robust AES-256-GCM encryption, and support for multiple secure VPN protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard.
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Its extensive server network in 100 countries, combined with critical security features such as a kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, and an ad blocker, make it a comprehensive choice for users seeking high security and privacy.
Norton Secure VPN, while providing essential security features like AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, Mimic protocols, and a kill switch, falls short due to its smaller server network and the fact that it doesn’t provide DNS leak protection.
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However, its user-friendly interface and integration with Norton’s other security products may be appealing to those who prioritize ease of use and brand reliability.
Norton Secure VPN gathers some data, such as device name, type, and IP address, utilizing encrypted storage for up to 36 months.
Our Pick |
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| 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, forums | Live chat, phone, email, online guides, forums |
| Learn more | Get Surfshark VPN
Read Surfshark VPN Review |
Get Norton Secure VPN
Read Norton Secure VPN Review |
Both Surfshark and Norton Secure VPN offer comprehensive compatibility across major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
However, Surfshark goes a step further by supporting Linux, routers, and smart devices, making it a more versatile option for users with diverse tech needs.
Both VPNs offer browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
In terms of customer support, both VPNs provide 24/7 live chat, email support, and comprehensive online guides. Norton Secure VPN also includes phone support, which is beneficial for users who prefer direct communication.
Both VPNs have user-friendly interfaces, but Surfshark stands out for its clean, intuitive design, making it easier to navigate and use compared to Norton.
Yes, you can trust Surfshark. It offers strong security features, including AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited by Deloitte.
Norton Secure VPN can cause some slowdown in your internet speed, as is common with most VPNs.
However, during our tests, we found that the slowdown was generally manageable, with a more noticeable impact when connected to servers further from our physical location.
As of 2024, Surfshark has not been compromised or suffered any data breaches. The company maintains a strong focus on security, employing robust encryption and conducting regular audits of its no-logs policy to ensure user data remains protected.
Overall, Surfshark VPN is the better choice for those seeking comprehensive security features, extensive device compatibility, and a greater value for the money.
Surfshark VPN excels in providing robust security features, extensive server coverage, and support for a wide range of devices, including Linux and routers. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections and comes at a competitive price.
Norton Secure VPN, while user-friendly and integrated with Norton’s other security products, falls short in several areas. Its limited server network can be a drawback for users prioritizing privacy and global access.
Norton’s headquarters in the U.S. (a Five Eyes country) further complicates its privacy stance, despite claims of a no-logs policy. Similarly problematic, Surfshark is headquartered in the Netherlands, which is part of the Nine Eyes alliance.
/images/2022/09/02/logo-surfshark-vpn.png){kind=logo}
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
If Surfshark and Norton Secure VPN don’t meet your needs, consider these alternatives:
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| Price | $3.39–$15.99/mo | $2.19–$11.99/mo | $2.03–$12.99/mo |
| Free version | |||
| Max # of connected devices | 10 | Unlimited | 7 |
| # of servers | 6,300+ 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-bit | 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 |
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
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