150 Highlights 97 Differences 10 Reactions 0 Likes

WireGuard vs Surfshark: 150 Highlights & 97 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better

Surfshark leads with advanced security options and transparency. WireGuard prioritizes simplicity and core privacy. From account sharing policy, deployment type, regulatory compliance statement & connection logs to feature set, see how WireGuard and Surfshark compete in the vpn battle — straight from user insights.

58 Points
WireGuard
WireGuard
WireGuard
WireGuard
83 Points
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
vs

Highlights 175

No extras. Just what matters.
58 Points
vs
83 Points

Why is WireGuard better than Surfshark ?

Scroll down for more facts

WireGuard Vs Surfshark: A Deep Dive Into VPN Powerhouses

If you're hunting for the perfect VPN to secure your online life or power your business network, WireGuard and Surfshark present two very different approaches crafted to meet distinct needs. Both boast robust privacy and strong encryption with ECDHE key exchange, promising no-logs policies and strong reputations. But beyond these basics, they diverge significantly in deployment style, feature set, and target audiences.

WireGuard is an open-source, on-premise VPN protocol focused heavily on security, clean code, and privacy, primarily aimed at individual tech-savvy users, teams, and businesses. Surfshark, on the other hand, operates as a cloud-based VPN service tailored to individuals and families who desire a fully functional solution for privacy, streaming, gaming, and general use, offering an extensive suite of advanced features seldom seen in bare protocols.

The Adventurer in Minimalism: WireGuard's Clean, Secure Core

WireGuard stands out through its elegantly simple design, emphasizing lightweight, efficient, and easy-to-deploy VPN technology without unnecessary bells and whistles. Its support for all major operating systems like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, combined with a command-line interface (CLI) and IoT compatibility, makes it versatile for both personal and corporate use.

While lacking third-party audits, kill switch, or stealth mode, WireGuard's security foundation remains solid with a modern ECDHE key exchange and an ironclad no-logs policy. It keeps no connection or metadata logs, bolstering privacy, but falls short of RAM-only servers or user data deletion guarantees provided by others.

Its lack of streaming, gaming optimizations, and advanced networking features (like custom DNS or per-app rules) highlights its primary role as a privacy-focused, on-premise protocol. Yet, its allowance of torrenting and mesh networking makes it suitable for secure, decentralized network scenarios. Also, WireGuard comes free through official app stores, which is a significant plus for budget-conscious users.

Surfshark: The Powerhouse for Streaming, Gaming, and Privacy Connoisseurs

Surfshark brings a much richer, consumer-friendly experience wrapped in a polished cloud infrastructure. It shines with a hybrid server ownership network housed in Tier III data centers, offering unlimited bandwidth and gaming-optimized servers perfect for lag-free sessions.

One of Surfshark's defining advantages includes a full feature suite: kill switch, stealth mode, RAM-only server architecture, and periodic third-party audits to reinforce trust. It is equipped with options such as custom DNS, per-app rules, and API access, letting even advanced users tailor their connections deeply.

On the performance front, Surfshark is tuned for optimal speed with peak speeds reaching 550 Mbps, regional speed optimizations, and a sensible latency impact of approximately 15ms, ensuring silky smooth video streaming and gaming. Surfshark's streaming support is tremendous, allowing access to top platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, all with proven reliability in 4K quality.

Device support is vast, extending beyond traditional OS compatibility to include router setups, smart TVs, and browser extensions. It also supports family-oriented features like multi-user profiles, sub-accounts, and login history visibility, creating an experience tailored for households. Customer-facing benefits include live chat, faster support SLAs, and active community forums coupled with solid documentation.

Subscription plans are flexible and inclusive of numerous payment options, including cryptocurrency and gift cards, enhancing accessibility. While it carries a modest monthly fee (roughly $1.7/month), the breadth of features and support redefines convenience and security for everyday Internet users.

Quick Take

WireGuard delivers uncompromising security and privacy with its streamlined, open-source VPN protocol, perfect for tech-oriented users and businesses needing a lightweight, cost-effective VPN without streaming frills. Meanwhile, Surfshark caters excellently to individuals and families who want a versatile, secure VPN that excels at streaming, gaming, and device compatibility with superior customer service and ongoing audit transparency.

Bottom Line

For those prioritizing unadulterated performance and security in a straightforward VPN protocol, WireGuard is unbeatable as a free, no-nonsense solution that can be tailored on-premise and supports essential privacy features. Conversely, Surfshark should be your pick if you want a comprehensive, user-friendly VPN equipped with advanced security add-ons, streaming reliability, gaming prowess, and wide device support; all backed by responsive customer care. Each serves distinct needs, so choosing the right one depends heavily on your VPN objectives and user environment.

Verdict

  • Winner: Surfshark, for its rich feature set including streaming and gaming support, advanced security options like stealth mode, excellent customer support, and broad device compatibility.
  • Runner-up: WireGuard; for delivering privacy-focused, open-source VPN technology ideal for business and privacy purists who prefer on-premise deployment and don't require streaming or advanced app support.

Comparisons 25

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

Related comparisons 25

Because one duel is never enough.

Comparisons & Facts 175

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

No hype, just facts. This vpn comparison lays out what WireGuard and Surfshark offer — from AI performance to pricing tiers and UX wins.

General Information 12

Deployment Type

What is the deployment type?

46 WireGuard 1 Votes On-Premise

87 Surfshark 0 Votes Cloud-Based

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Deployment Type

WireGuard is designed for On-Premise deployment, while Surfshark is Cloud-Based. Businesses or individuals preferring self-managed infrastructure may choose WireGuard, whereas those wanting cloud convenience should consider Surfshark.

How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.

WireGuard's on-premise deployment really suits those who want full control plus lighter setup compared to cloud solutions.

See more

Account Sharing Policy

Is account sharing allowed?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Account Sharing Policy

Account Sharing Policy is unavailable for WireGuard, but Surfshark explicitly allows account sharing. Surfshark is preferable if you want to share your account across multiple users, unlike WireGuard which provides no clear policy.

Defines rules around sharing accounts.

Regulatory Compliance Statement

What regulations does it comply with?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

82 Surfshark 0 Votes GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Regulatory Compliance Statement

WireGuard has no available Regulatory Compliance Statement, while Surfshark complies with GDPR, CCPA, and UK GDPR. For users prioritizing legal compliance and data protection regulations, Surfshark offers greater assurance over WireGuard in this aspect.

Stated compliance with data protection regulations.

Release Year

When was this VPN first released?

76 WireGuard 0 Votes 2015

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 2018

WireGuard
WireGuard

Initial release year is 2015, providing context on product maturity and the length of time the service has been available.

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service was released in 2018, indicating experience and a matured product.

Year the VPN service was first released.

VPN Service Type

What type of VPN service is offered?

26 WireGuard 0 Votes Consumer VPN

27 Surfshark 0 Votes Consumer VPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service type is consumer-focused, designed primarily for individual and household use.

Indicates the primary service classification.

Intended Use

What is this VPN mainly used for?

54 WireGuard 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Business

57 Surfshark 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, Gaming

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Intended Use

Intended Use for WireGuard covers Privacy, Security, and Business, whereas Surfshark adds Streaming, P2P, and Gaming to its uses. For broader entertainment and gaming applications, Surfshark offers more versatile functionality.

Describes the main use cases supported.

Service Model

What service model does the VPN use?

36 WireGuard 0 Votes Free Tier

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Subscription-Based

Surfshark
Surfshark

The service operates on a subscription-based model, which means users pay periodically to maintain access and updates.

Business and access model used to provide the VPN service.

Supported Devices Count

How many devices are supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN supports unlimited devices per account, accommodating users with many gadgets.

Maximum number of devices supported per account.

Platform Category

Which platform categories are supported?

74 WireGuard 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile

71 Surfshark 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

Indicates supported platform categories.

Target User

Who is this VPN designed for?

68 WireGuard 0 Votes Individual, Team, Business

62 Surfshark 0 Votes Individual, Family

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Target User

Regarding the Target User, WireGuard supports Individuals, Teams, and Businesses, while Surfshark is tailored mainly for Individuals and Families. If your needs extend to business use or team collaboration, WireGuard fits better; for family use, Surfshark is more suitable.

Identifies the primary audience.

Simultaneous Connections

How many simultaneous connections are allowed?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited

Number of devices that can connect at the same time.

Service Availability

Where is the service available?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes Global

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Global

Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.

Security & Encryption 24

Key Exchange Method

How are encryption keys exchanged?

86 WireGuard 0 Votes ECDHE

77 Surfshark 0 Votes ECDHE, RSA

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Key Exchange Method

Key Exchange Method for WireGuard is ECDHE only, whereas Surfshark uses ECDHE and RSA. Surfshark's additional RSA support may provide enhanced cryptographic options, making it preferable for sophisticated security needs.

Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.

Third-Party Audit Availability

Are third-party audits available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Third-Party Audit Availability

Third-Party Audit Availability is No for WireGuard but Yes for Surfshark. This indicates Surfshark undergoes independent scrutiny, enhancing trust and security confidence, making it better for those prioritizing verified audits.

Availability of external audit reports.

Surfshark's availability of third-party audits gives me more confidence in its security than WireGuard's lack of them.

See more

Stealth Mode

Is stealth mode available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Stealth Mode

Stealth Mode is not supported by WireGuard, while Surfshark offers Stealth Mode. Users requiring obfuscated VPN usage to bypass censorship or restrictions will find Surfshark more suitable.

Hides VPN usage from detection systems.

Encryption Standard

What encryption standard is used?

76 WireGuard 0 Votes ChaCha20

72 Surfshark 0 Votes AES, ChaCha20

WireGuard
WireGuard

Employs ChaCha20, a modern stream cipher optimized for high performance on devices without AES hardware acceleration.

Specifies the primary encryption algorithms used.

Encryption Strength

What encryption strength is used?

91 WireGuard 0 Votes ChaCha20

87 Surfshark 0 Votes AES-256

Surfshark
Surfshark

Encryption strength uses AES-256, a robust encryption cipher standard for secure VPN connections.

Level and type of encryption used to secure data.

Authentication Method

How are VPN connections authenticated?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes Certificates

72 Surfshark 0 Votes Certificates, Pre-Shared Key

WireGuard
WireGuard

Uses Certificates for authentication, which offers strong identity verification and can integrate with organizational PKI for centralized trust management.

Method used to authenticate connections.

VPN Protocols Supported

Which VPN protocols are supported?

86 WireGuard 0 Votes WireGuard

79 Surfshark 0 Votes OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2

Surfshark
Surfshark

Supported VPN protocols include OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, covering a range of compatibility, security, and performance options.

Lists all supported VPN protocols.

Default Protocol

What protocol is used by default?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes WireGuard

97 Surfshark 0 Votes WireGuard

Surfshark
Surfshark

The default VPN protocol is WireGuard, favored for its speed and modern encryption.

Protocol used by default.

Firewall Integration

Does it integrate with a firewall?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Firewall integration enables the VPN to work seamlessly with existing firewall setups for enhanced protection.

Integrates firewall rules for traffic control.

Obfuscation Technology

Is traffic obfuscation supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Obfuscation technology conceals VPN traffic to evade censorship and VPN blocks.

Masks VPN traffic to bypass censorship.

Multi-Hop VPN

Is multi-hop VPN supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Multi-hop VPN chains user traffic through multiple servers for enhanced privacy and anonymity.

Routes traffic through multiple servers.

Perfect Forward Secrecy

Is perfect forward secrecy supported?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Ensures past sessions remain secure if keys are compromised.

Privacy & Logging Policy 18

RAM-Only Servers

Are RAM-only servers used?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
RAM-Only Servers

WireGuard does not use RAM-Only Servers, but Surfshark does. RAM-Only Servers enhance privacy by preventing data retention, suggesting Surfshark is stronger for temporary data storage security.

Indicates use of volatile memory servers.

Connection Logs

Are connection logs stored?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

No 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Connection Logs

Both WireGuard and Surfshark do not keep Connection Logs. This alignment ensures that neither records connection metadata, benefiting users focused on privacy protection.

Indicates logging of connection metadata.

Jurisdiction Country

Which country is the jurisdiction?

86 WireGuard 0 Votes United States

82 Surfshark 0 Votes Netherlands

WireGuard
WireGuard

Service jurisdiction is United States, which has implications for applicable national laws and potential government data access requests.

Country where the VPN company is legally registered.

Data Retention Period

How long is data retained?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes No Logs

97 Surfshark 0 Votes No Logs

WireGuard
WireGuard

Data retention policy is No Logs, which means the provider claims not to store session or usage records that could identify individual user activity.

Length of time user data is retained.

Privacy Certification

Does it have privacy certifications?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

47 Surfshark 0 Votes ISO 27001, TRUSTe

Surfshark
Surfshark

Privacy certifications include ISO 27001 and TRUSTe, indicating adherence to internationally recognized privacy and security standards.

Privacy or security certifications held by the provider.

Logging Policy Type

What is the logging policy type?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes No-Logs

97 Surfshark 1 Votes No-Logs

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Logging Policy Type

Both WireGuard and Surfshark employ a No-Logs policy, ensuring neither retains user logs. This equal commitment to privacy makes both services suitable for users valuing anonymous usage.

Describes the overall logging stance.

Both have no-logs policies but Surfshark strengthens trust by having RAM-only servers, unlike WireGuard.

See more

Activity Logs

Are activity logs stored?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether user activity is logged.

Metadata Logs

Are metadata logs collected?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

No 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Metadata Logs

Neither WireGuard nor Surfshark logs Metadata, reinforcing their commitment to protecting user privacy comprehensively across all traffic data.

Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.

IP Address Logging

Are IP addresses logged?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.

Timestamp Logging

Are timestamps logged?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates logging of session timestamps.

Bandwidth Usage Logging

Is bandwidth usage logged?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.

Warrant Canary

Is a warrant canary published?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates presence of a warrant canary.

Network & Server Infrastructure 20

Gaming Optimized Servers

Are gaming servers available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Gaming Optimized Servers

WireGuard does not provide Gaming Optimized Servers, but Surfshark does. For gamers, Surfshark's specialized servers improve gaming experience, making it the better choice in this field.

Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.

For gamers, Surfshark with its gaming optimized servers is clearly the go-to option over WireGuard's lack of such servers.

See more

Data Center Tier

What data center tier is used?

0 WireGuard 0 Votes Unspecified

47 Surfshark 0 Votes Tier III

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Data Center Tier

WireGuard has an Unspecified Data Center Tier, while Surfshark operates Data Centers at Tier III standard. Surfshark's defined Tier III ensures higher infrastructure reliability and security.

Indicates data center reliability level.

Total Server Count

How many servers are available?

1 WireGuard 0 Votes Unspecified

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 3000+

WireGuard
WireGuard

Total server count is Unspecified, so users should verify current scale and geographic distribution directly with the provider before making capacity-dependent decisions.

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total server count exceeds 3000, indicating a large network with many options for users worldwide.

Approximate total number of servers available.

Total Country Coverage

How many countries are covered?

0 WireGuard 0 Votes Unspecified

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 90+

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total country coverage extends beyond 90 countries, providing worldwide server options and global access.

Number of countries with server presence.

Total City Coverage

How many cities are covered?

0 WireGuard 0 Votes Unspecified

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 200+

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total city coverage exceeds 200 cities, ensuring extensive geographic reach and more options for optimal performance.

Number of cities with VPN servers.

Server Ownership

Who owns the servers?

66 WireGuard 0 Votes Hybrid

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Hybrid

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Server Ownership

Server Ownership is Hybrid for both WireGuard and Surfshark, indicating a combination of owned and rented servers. This similarity means comparable control and security over their infrastructure.

Describes who controls the servers.

Server Refresh Rate

How often are servers refreshed?

0 WireGuard 0 Votes Unspecified

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Monthly

WireGuard
WireGuard

Server refresh rate is Unspecified, meaning there is no publicly committed cadence for hardware replacement or OS refreshes.

Frequency of server hardware or IP refresh.

Unlimited Bandwidth

Is bandwidth unlimited?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Advertises unlimited bandwidth, meaning there are no provider-enforced monthly data caps for standard consumer plans.

Indicates if data usage is unlimited.

Throttling Policy

Is bandwidth throttled?

16 WireGuard 0 Votes No Throttling

17 Surfshark 0 Votes No Throttling

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Throttling Policy

Both WireGuard and Surfshark have a No Throttling policy, ensuring no intentional bandwidth limitations and delivering consistent speed performance for all users.

Describes bandwidth throttling rules.

Server Location Type

Are server locations physical or virtual?

46 WireGuard 0 Votes Physical

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Mixed

Indicates how server locations are implemented.

Load Balancing

Is load balancing supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Distributes traffic evenly across servers.

Smart Location Selection

Is smart location selection available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Automatically selects optimal servers.

Performance & Speed 14

Peak Speed Performance

What is the peak speed performance?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

550 Mbps 1 Votes
Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Peak Speed Performance

Peak Speed Performance is not available for WireGuard, while Surfshark offers up to 550 Mbps. Surfshark's well-defined peak speeds make it better for users demanding high throughput.

Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.

Surfshark's peak speed of 550 Mbps easily outpaces WireGuard's unspecified speeds making it better for heavy users like me.

See more

Performance Analytics

Are performance analytics available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Performance Analytics

WireGuard lacks Performance Analytics, but Surfshark provides these insights. Surfshark is preferable for those who want to monitor and optimize VPN speed and reliability.

Provides performance monitoring insights.

Speed Consistency

How consistent are the speeds?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes High

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

WireGuard
WireGuard

Rated High for speed consistency, implying users can expect steady throughput across sessions and locations under normal conditions.

Surfshark
Surfshark

Speed consistency is rated high, indicating stable and reliable connection speeds over time.

Stability of speeds over time.

Average Download Speed

What is the average download speed?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

480 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Average download speed of 480 Mbps provides fast data transfer, supporting HD streaming and bulk downloads.

Typical downstream speed when connected to the VPN.

Average Upload Speed

What is the average upload speed?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

420 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

The average upload speed is 420 Mbps, suitable for high-quality video calls and fast file uploads.

Typical upstream speed when using the VPN.

Latency Impact

How much latency does the VPN add?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

15 ms 0 Votes
Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Latency Impact

Latency Impact information is unavailable for WireGuard, whereas Surfshark has a measured latency impact of 15 ms. Surfshark provides transparency on this key performance metric, which is helpful for latency-sensitive users.

Additional latency introduced by the VPN.

Protocol Speed Optimization

Are protocols optimized for speed?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Includes protocol-level speed optimizations aimed at reducing latency and improving throughput, which benefits interactive and streaming use cases.

Optimizes protocol choice for speed.

Performance Transparency

Are performance metrics transparent?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Performance transparency is provided, meaning the provider publishes or shares performance metrics that help users evaluate speed and reliability.

Indicates disclosure of performance metrics.

Speed Throttling

Is speed throttling applied?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.

Smart Routing

Is smart routing used?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Smart Routing

Both WireGuard and Surfshark support Smart Routing, ensuring intelligent traffic paths for better performance. This parity benefits users on both platforms with improved speed and reliability.

Routes traffic through optimal paths.

Auto Server Selection Speed

Does it auto-select the fastest server?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Automatically selects fastest servers.

Speed Test Tool

Is there a built-in speed test?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Built-in tool for measuring VPN speed.

Platform & Device Support 13

OS Version Compatibility

Which OS versions are supported?

85 WireGuard 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android

78 Surfshark 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
OS Version Compatibility

WireGuard supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android OS versions, while Surfshark adds Router compatibility. Surfshark is thus more versatile for users needing router-level VPN use.

Operating systems and platforms supported.

CLI Support

Is CLI support available?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
CLI Support

CLI Support is available with both WireGuard and Surfshark, catering to users who prefer command-line interface control. Both services equally support advanced user management.

Indicates command-line interface availability.

Browser Extension

Are browser extensions available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Browser Extension

WireGuard does not offer a Browser Extension, but Surfshark does. For users wanting easy VPN access directly within browsers, Surfshark is more convenient.

Indicates availability of browser extensions.

Surfshark's browser extension adds convenience for casual users which WireGuard does not have at all.

See more

Browser Types Supported

Which browsers are supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

85 Surfshark 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera

Surfshark
Surfshark

Browser types supported include Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera, enabling VPN use directly through popular browsers.

Lists supported browser types.

Manual Configuration

Is manual configuration supported?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Allows manual configuration so users can set up connections on custom devices, routers, or third-party clients outside the vendor's official apps.

Allows manual VPN setup.

ARM Architecture

Are ARM devices supported?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Supports ARM architecture, enabling native deployments on many mobile and single-board computer platforms like Raspberry Pi.

Indicates support for ARM-based devices.

Smart TV

Are smart TVs supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
vs
Surfshark
Smart TV

Support for Smart TV platforms is absent in WireGuard but included in Surfshark. Surfshark is more suitable for users seeking VPN protection on TV devices.

Indicates support for smart TV platforms.

Gaming Console

Are gaming consoles supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.

App Interface Consistency

Is the app interface consistent?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes Consistent

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Consistent

Consistency of UI across platforms.

Cross-Platform Sync

Is cross-platform sync available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Syncs settings across devices.

Device Management Dashboard

Is there a device management dashboard?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Centralized device management interface.

Virtual Machine

Is virtual machine usage supported?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates usability in virtual machines.

Features & Functionality 24

API Access

Is API access available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

API access is available, facilitating integration with other software or automated management of the VPN service.

Provides programmatic API access.

Per-App Rules

Can rules be set per app?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

Applies VPN rules per application.

The customizable per-app rules in Surfshark are a game changer because WireGuard simply doesn't offer that.

See more

Custom DNS

Can custom DNS be configured?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows use of custom DNS resolvers.

LAN Access

Is LAN access allowed?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

LAN access is allowed while connected, permitting discovery and communication with other devices on the user's local network when the VPN configuration enables it.

Surfshark
Surfshark

LAN access when connected allows users to interact with devices on the local network behind the VPN.

Allows access to local network devices.

Custom Routing Rules

Can routing rules be customized?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Custom routing rules allow users to define specific paths for traffic, enhancing control and performance optimization.

Allows advanced routing customization.

Automation Support

Is automation supported?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Automation support allows users to integrate VPN usage with other automated workflows and scripts.

Supports automation via integrations or scripts.

Automation Scripts

Are automation scripts supported?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Provides automation scripts to simplify deployment, configuration, or integration with orchestration tools.

These scripts reduce manual setup time for administrators and power users.

Allows use of automation scripts.

Feature Customization Depth

How customizable are the features?

86 WireGuard 0 Votes Advanced

87 Surfshark 0 Votes Advanced

WireGuard
WireGuard

Customization depth is Advanced, offering granular settings and options suitable for power users and enterprise configurations.

Describes overall customization level.

Split Tunneling

Is split tunneling supported?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows selective routing of traffic outside the VPN.

App-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set per app?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows split tunneling by application.

URL-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set by URL?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows split tunneling by website or domain.

Auto-Connect Rules

Are auto-connect rules supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Automatically connects under defined conditions.

Streaming, Gaming & P2P Support 9

Streaming Platform Support

Which streaming platforms are supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

84 Surfshark 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

Surfshark
Surfshark

Streaming platforms supported include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, ensuring broad access to popular services securely through the VPN.

Streaming platforms that the VPN can reliably unblock and support.

Torrenting Policy

Is torrenting allowed?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes Allowed

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

Defines torrenting rules.

Cloud Gaming

Does it support cloud gaming?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.

I appreciate Surfshark's cloud gaming support while WireGuard doesn't even offer that feature.

See more

Streaming Reliability

How reliable is streaming access?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

Consistency of streaming access over time.

HD Streaming

Is HD streaming supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates support for HD streaming quality.

4K Streaming

Is 4K streaming supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.

Gaming Latency Optimization

Is gaming latency optimized?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.

P2P File Sharing

Is P2P file sharing allowed?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.

Port Selection for P2P

Can ports be selected for P2P?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows port selection for P2P traffic.

Account, Access & Management 10

Access Control Levels

Are access control levels available?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Provides access control levels so administrators can assign different permissions to users or groups, improving operational security and delegation.

Supports different permission levels.

Multi-User Profiles

Can multiple user profiles be created?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows multiple user profiles under one account.

Login History Visibility

Is login history visible?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Shows login and access history.

Session Management

Can active sessions be managed?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Includes session management features that let users view and control active sessions for improved account security and troubleshooting.

Allows viewing and managing active sessions.

Device Revocation

Can devices be revoked remotely?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Supports device revocation to invalidate lost or compromised device credentials without changing the account password.

This capability helps contain exposure after device theft or decommissioning.

Allows removal of connected devices remotely.

User Account Dashboard

Is there a user account dashboard?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Provides a central interface for managing the account.

Sub-Account

Are sub-accounts supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.

Team or Family Plans

Are team or family plans available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of shared plans.

Password Policy

How strong is the password policy?

6 WireGuard 0 Votes Unspecified

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong

Rules for password complexity and security.

Two-Factor Authentication

Is two-factor authentication available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Adds an extra layer of account security.

Customer Support & Documentation 8

Support Channels

What support channels are available?

56 WireGuard 0 Votes Email

64 Surfshark 1 Votes Live Chat, Email, Ticket

WireGuard
WireGuard

Primary support channel is Email, suitable for detailed queries and troubleshooting steps rather than immediate, real-time help.

Lists available customer support channels.

I find Surfshark's multiple support channels including live chat way more helpful than WireGuard's email-only approach.

See more

Response Time SLA

What is the response time SLA?

0 WireGuard 0 Votes No SLA

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

WireGuard
WireGuard

There is No SLA for response time, so support response and remediation times are not contractually guaranteed.

Expected support response time.

Knowledge Base

Is there a knowledge base?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.

Setup Guides

Are setup guides available?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Provides step-by-step setup instructions.

Video Tutorials

Are video tutorials available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.

API Documentation

Is API documentation available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Provides documentation for API usage.

Support Language Coverage

What support languages are available?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

52 Surfshark 0 Votes English, Multi-language

Languages supported by customer service.

Community Forum

Is there a community forum?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates presence of a user community forum.

Billing, Plans & Trials 12

Trial Duration

How long is the free trial?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

7 days 1 Votes
Surfshark

Length of the free trial period.

Having a 7-day trial with Surfshark lets me test it out before committing versus no trial with WireGuard.

See more

Free Trial Availability

Is a free trial available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether a free trial is offered.

Plan Flexibility

How flexible are the plans?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes High

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

Ease of changing plans.

Subscription Length Options

What subscription lengths are available?

6 WireGuard 0 Votes Unspecified

64 Surfshark 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

Available subscription durations.

Money-Back Guarantee

Is there a money-back guarantee?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.

Refund Period

What is the refund period?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

67 Surfshark 0 Votes 30 Days

Time window for requesting refunds.

Payment Methods Supported

What payment methods are supported?

0 WireGuard 0 Votes Unspecified

60 Surfshark 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency, Gift Card

Supported payment methods.

Anonymous Payment

Are anonymous payments supported?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows anonymous payment methods.

Auto-Renewal

Is auto-renewal enabled?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether subscriptions auto-renew.

Plan Change Policy

What is the plan change policy?

0 WireGuard 0 Votes Not Allowed

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

Policy governing whether users can upgrade or downgrade their subscription plans.

Family Plan Availability

Are family plans available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of family plans.

Business Plan Availability

Are business plans available?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of business plans.

Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11

Public Reputation

What is the public reputation?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes Excellent

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Excellent

Overall public perception.

Independent Security Audits

Are independent audits conducted?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Has independent security audits performed by third parties, which helps validate security claims and surface implementation issues.

This increases transparency and trust in the provider's privacy and security posture.

Undergoes third-party security audits.

Company Transparency

Is company ownership transparent?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Indicates company transparency through published ownership, policies, or operational details, which supports user trust and due diligence.

Discloses ownership and leadership.

Jurisdiction Clarity

Is jurisdiction clearly stated?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

WireGuard
WireGuard

Jurisdiction is clearly stated, allowing users to assess legal risk and the likelihood of government data-access requests relevant to the service.

Clearly states legal jurisdiction.

Service Uptime

What is the service uptime?

Who knows? 0 Votes WireGuard (Help us out by suggesting one!)

99.9 % 0 Votes
Surfshark

Average service availability over time.

Downtime Transparency

Are downtimes disclosed?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.

Audit Transparency

Are audit reports public?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Publishes full audit reports.

No-Log Claim Credibility

Is the no-logs claim credible?

Yes 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Credibility of no-logs claims.

Transparency Reports

Are transparency reports published?

No 0 Votes WireGuard

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Publishes government request reports.

Third-Party Review Presence

Does the VPN have third-party reviews?

96 WireGuard 0 Votes Strong Presence

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong Presence

Indicates whether the VPN service is actively reviewed on independent third-party platforms.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Performance

How would you rate the overall performance of this VPN?

Very fast — Under 2 hours
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Fast — 2 to 4 hours
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average speed — 4 to 6 hours
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Slow — 6 to 10 hours
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very slow — Over 10 hours
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

Ease of Setup

How easy is it to set up this VPN?

Very easy — Takes under 5 minutes
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Easy — Takes 5 to 10 minutes
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Takes 10 to 15 minutes
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Hard — Takes 15 to 30 minutes
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very hard — Takes over 30 minutes
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

User Interface

How would you describe the usability of this VPN's interface?

Very intuitive — Easy to navigate and use
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Easy to use — Clear and simple interface
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Some features may be difficult to navigate
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Hard to use — Complex layout, hard to understand
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very hard to use — Frustrating interface
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

Connection Stability

How stable is the connection when using this VPN?

Very stable — Rare disconnections
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Stable — Occasional disconnections
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average stability — Frequent minor disconnections
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Unstable — Regular disconnections
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very unstable — Almost always disconnects
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

Security Features

How would you rate the security features of this VPN?

Top-notch security — Includes features like 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and kill switch
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Great security — Includes strong encryption and basic protections
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average security — Standard encryption, basic protections
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Weak security — Limited encryption and few protections
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Poor security — No encryption or protections
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

Device Compatibility

How well does this VPN work across different devices?

Excellent compatibility — Works on all devices without issues
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Good compatibility — Works on most devices with few issues
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average compatibility — Works on some devices, limited support
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Poor compatibility — Works only on specific devices
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very limited compatibility — Works on very few devices
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

Speed During Use

How fast is your internet connection when using this VPN?

Very fast — No noticeable decrease in speed
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Fast — Slight decrease in speed
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average speed — Moderate decrease in speed
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Slow — Significant decrease in speed
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very slow — Extremely slow, hard to use
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

Customer Support

How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?

Exceptional — Quick responses, helpful solutions
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Good — Support is helpful and timely
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Support is okay but may take some time
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Poor — Long wait times and incomplete solutions
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very poor — No helpful support, slow responses
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

Design Appeal

How would you rate the design appeal of this VPN's interface?

Very appealing — Modern, clean, and visually pleasing
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Appealing — Simple and easy on the eyes
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Nothing special, functional but basic
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Unappealing — Outdated and unattractive
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very unappealing — Difficult to look at
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

Pricing

How would you rate the price of this VPN compared to its features?

Great value for money — Worth every penny
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Pretty good price — Good balance of features and cost
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Fair deal — Reasonable for the features provided
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Kinda pricey — Higher cost than expected
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark
Crazy expensive — Far too expensive for what it offers
0 Votes
WireGuard
0 Votes
Surfshark

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

WireGuard
WireGuard
WireGuard
WireGuard
0 / 5 0 Reviews
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions 0

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards 2

Only the best made it here.
15

Best VPN For Gaming

10 Champs & 5 Wannabes — Which VPN Keeps Ping Low Under Pressure?
20

Best VPNs of 2026

10 Champs & 10 Wannabes — Which VPN Actually Protects Your Data Best?

Collections 0

Treasures You’ve picked. No fluff, all fun.

More VPN 0

Unlock more awesome finds.

Other WireGuard VPN 0

Other Surfshark VPN 0

WireGuard
WireGuard
WireGuard
WireGuard
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
vs