ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN: Why is PureVPN Better?

In the vast realm of online security and privacy, Virtual Private Networks (also known as VPNs) have emerged as essential tools. These powerful services create a secure and encrypted connection between your device and the internet, shielding your sensitive data from prying eyes. 

However, with numerous VPN providers in the market, choosing the right one can be a challenging task. In our in-depth comparison, we will explore three popular VPN providers: PureVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark, uncovering their strengths and weaknesses to decide who stands where. 

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Speed

Baseline speed: 2 Gbps 

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Average download speeds	425 Mbps	450 Mbps	394 Mbps
Average upload speeds	357 Mbps	375 Mbps	333 Mbps

In a recent test, download speeds were measured for WireGuard connections to the US, UK, and Canada. ExpressVPN demonstrated impressive download speeds, with an average of 450 Mbps. PureVPN followed closely with an average of 425 Mbps, and Surfshark achieved an average speed of 394 Mbps. 

When it comes to upload speeds, ExpressVPN also performed well with an average of 375 Mbps, while PureVPN recorded 357 Mbps, and Surfshark achieved 333 Mbps. It’s important to consider that actual speeds may vary based on factors like server locations, network congestion, and individual internet connections.

Who tops this category? ExpressVPN offers the highest download and upload speeds, bagging the first spot.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Server Locations 

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Servers	6,500+	3,000+	3,200+
Countries	70	94	100

PureVPN takes the lead with a whopping 6,500+ servers that span across 70 countries, offering a plethora of choices for users to experience secure and seamless connections worldwide.

ExpressVPN may only have 3,000+ servers, but they make up for it with an impressive presence in 94 countries, guaranteeing reliable and fast access to numerous global locations.

Surfshark doesn’t fall behind, boasting a robust network of 3,200+ servers spread across an astonishing 100 countries, providing users with a diverse array of server locations to cater to their every need. 

Who tops this category? PureVPN takes first position, Surfshark second, and ExpressVPN third.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Security

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Encryption used	AES 256-bit	AES 256-bit	AES 256-bit
Protocol selection	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, IPSec	OpenVPN, IKEv2, Lightway	OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard
Private DNS	Yes	Yes	Yes
RAM-based servers	No	Yes	Yes
Quantum-resistant	Yes	No	No

PureVPN boasts robust security measures, employing AES 256-bit encryption on your data. It lets you choose from a diverse range of protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, and IPSec. While PureVPN uses its own DNS network, it does not provide RAM-based servers. However, the VPN service is quantum-resistant!

ExpressVPN also prioritizes security by implementing AES 256-bit encryption and offering protocol options like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Lightway. However, it does not have WireGuard as of yet. Furthermore, ExpressVPN offers private DNS and RAM-based servers. 

Surfshark provides strong security by implementing strong encryption with AES 256-bit. It offers multiple protocols to choose from, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. Surfshark also utilizes private DNS servers to enhance privacy and operates RAM-based servers for added security. 

Who tops this category? PureVPN uses quantum-resistant encryption keys, whereas ExpressVPN and Surfshark maintain RAM-based servers. Therefore, it is a three-way tie!

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Privacy

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Base of operation	British Virgin Islands	British Virgin Islands	Netherlands
Audited no-logs policy	Yes	Yes	Yes
Always on-audit	Yes	No	No

PureVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, ensuring a favorable privacy environment. It follows a Well known audit firm-audited no-logs policy, affirming that it does not retain user activity logs. What distinguishes PureVPN is its implementation of an always-on audit mechanism, providing an additional layer of transparency and accountability.

ExpressVPN is also based in the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of the British Virgin Islands, outside the reach of the 5/9/14 eyes alliances. It offers a PwC-audited no-logs policy, reinforcing its commitment to user privacy.

Surfshark operates out of the Netherlands, a country that is part of the Nine Eyes alliance surveillance network. However, Surfshark has a Deloitte-audited no-logs policy, ensuring that it does not store any user data or activity.

Who tops this category? Unlike ExpressVPN and Surfshark, PureVPN provides peace of mind with an always-on audit structure.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Unblocking

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Netflix	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hulu	Yes	Yes	Yes
Max	Yes	Yes	No
BBC iPlayer	Yes	No	Yes
Disney+	Yes	Yes	No

PureVPN excels at unblocking popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max, and Disney Plus, making it a top choice for accessing a wide range of content from different regions.

ExpressVPN is also a strong contender with the ability to unblock Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney Plus. However, it falls short in unblocking BBC iPlayer, limiting its accessibility to UK content.

Surfshark proves itself as a reliable choice for unblocking Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. However, it faces challenges in accessing HBO Max and Disney Plus, which might be a drawback for some users seeking specific streaming platforms.

Who tops this category? PureVPN since it is capable of unblocking all major streaming platforms.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Pricing 

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Monthly	Standard ($10.95), Plus ($15.95), Max ($19.95)	$12.95	Starter ($12.95), One ($17.95), One+ ($22.95)
1-year	Standard ($3.75/month), Plus ($5.82/month), Max ($7.49/month)	$8.32/month	Starter ($3.99/month), One ($4.49/month), One+ ($8.29/month)
2-year	Standard ($2.29/month), Plus ($3.33), Max ($4.99/month)	–	Starter ($2.49/month), One ($3.49/month), One+ ($6.49/month)

PureVPN follows a tier-based pricing structure. The tiers are categorized as Standard, Plus, and Max, each having different features and pricing levels. Users can choose from monthly, 1-year, and 2-year plans within each tier.

ExpressVPN has a simplified pricing structure. They offer monthly subscriptions at a fixed rate and a 1-year plan at a discounted price. However, ExpressVPN does not provide a dedicated 2-year plan.

Surfshark offers flexible pricing with three tiers that provide different capabilities: Starter, One, and One+. Customers can choose a plan according to their needs, whether it is monthly, 1-year, or 2-year.

While Surfshark and ExpressVPN have a 30-day money-back guarantee, PureVPN goes a step ahead with a refund policy of 31 days. Additionally, all three VPNs provide multiple payment options, including credit cards, cryptocurrency, PayPal, and others.

Who tops this category? PureVPN’s flexible plans and competitive pricing make it a top choice for those seeking excellent value for money and affordability. Surfshark takes second position.

Get PureVPN

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Features

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Kill Switch	Yes	Yes	Yes
Split Tunneling	Yes	Yes	Yes
Obfuscation	Yes	Yes	Yes
DNS Leak Protection	Yes	Yes	Yes
IPv6 Leak Protection	Yes	Yes	No
Dedicated IP	Yes	Yes	Yes
Port Forwarding	Yes	No	No

PureVPN offers impressive features with its 20 Gbps servers, providing fast and reliable connections. Additionally, PureVPN also provides a range of bundled products like a password manager (PureKeep), file encrypter (PureEncrypt), and privacy auditor (PurePrivacy), which can be purchased alongside the VPN service.

ExpressVPN offers a SmartDNS feature for easy access to geo-restricted content and a Threat Manager that acts as a DNS-based traffic blocker for added security. In addition, ExpressVPN provides a built-in password manager to help users manage their online credentials securely. ExpressVPN also offers high-speed 10 Gbps servers, ensuring fast and reliable connections for users.

Surfshark offers SmartDNS for instant access to geo-restricted content and multi-hop servers that let you connect to two VPN servers at the same time. Besides that, it comes with an antivirus, ad and pop-up blocker (aka CleanWeb 2.0), data breach detector, and a private search engine for an extra price.

Who tops this category? PureVPN thanks to its extensive feature set. ExpressVPN and Surfshark are tied for second.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Compatibility

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Available apps	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Huawei, Android TV, Fire Stick	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick	macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, Fire Stick
Browser extensions	Chrome, Firefox, Edge	Chrome, Firefox, Edge	Chrome, Firefox, Edge
Multi-logins	10	8	Unlimited

PureVPN offers broad compatibility with easy-to-use apps for macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Huawei, Android TV, and Fire Stick. It also provides browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Supporting up to 10 simultaneous multi-logins, PureVPN allows users to connect multiple devices at the same time with one account.

ExpressVPN is available on macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick, providing compatibility across various platforms. It offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Users can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously with ExpressVPN’s multi-login feature.

Surfshark supports macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Fire Stick, along with browser extensions for Firefox, Chrome, and Edge. What sets Surfshark apart from ExpressVPN and PureVPN is the unlimited multi-logins feature, allowing you to connect as many devices as you want under one subscription.

Who tops this category? Surfshark because it offers unlimited multi-logins with a single account.

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Customer Support 

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Live chat	Yes	Yes	Yes
Email	Yes	Yes	Yes
Knowledgebase	Yes	Yes	Yes
In-app support	Yes	Yes	Yes

PureVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark all provide a diverse range of customer support options to ensure users have various channels to seek assistance and receive prompt support. These options include live chat, email support, knowledgebase resources, and in-app support features.

Who tops this category? It is a three-way tie!

ExpressVPN vs Surfshark vs PureVPN – Which is the Best?

	PureVPN	ExpressVPN	Surfshark
Pricing	1st	3rd	2nd
Speed	2nd	1st	3rd
Server locations	1st	3rd	2nd
Security	Tie	Tie	Tie
Privacy	1st	2nd	3rd
Unblocking	1st	2nd	3rd
Features	1st	2nd (Tie)	2nd (Tie)
Compatibility	2nd	3rd	1st
Customer support	Tie	Tie	Tie

The first position goes to PureVPN for its exceptional pricing, extensive server locations, top-notch privacy, unblocking capabilities, and feature-rich offering. 

ExpressVPN secures the second position with its blazing-fast speeds, strong privacy, and reliable unblocking abilities, though it lags slightly in pricing and server locations. 

Surfshark takes the third position, offering competitive pricing, good server locations, and excellent compatibility, but falls short in speed and unblocking some platforms. 

Each VPN provider has its strengths, but PureVPN emerges as the overall winner in this comparison!

Get PureVPN