ClearVPN vs Surfshark

ClearVPN and Surfshark both promise top-tier VPN protection and strict privacy. The key choice is simplicity versus comprehensive security coverage and scale. ClearVPN is fast and extremely affordable, but Surfshark delivers superior coverage for unlimited devices.

ClearVPN
ClearVPN

Simple security hindered by operational friction.

Ciroapp review
3.8
#10 in VPN

We found ClearVPN delivers robust security features, like AES-256 encryption and a strict No-Logs policy, all wrapped in a sleek, simple interface. However, user feedback indicates high friction concerning connection reliability and inconsistent billing practices, particularly post-free trial. Overall, we recommend ClearVPN for its low cost and ease of use, but users should be prepared for potential technical hurdles and should closely monitor their subscription status.

Pros

  • Extremely competitive annual pricing (effective $3.75 per month).
  • Simple, modern user interface (UI) and easy installation process.
  • Backed by a strict No-Logs policy and AES-256 encryption.
  • Allows connectivity for up to six devices per account.

Cons

  • Users report highly inconsistent connection reliability.
  • Trial cancellation process is problematic; users report unauthorized charges.
  • The 'shortcuts' connection method is often confusing and frustrating.
  • Difficulty managing or updating subscriptions via the website.
Pricing
$3.75/mo
Free trial3 days
Money-back30 days
Best for
Users seeking the lowest explicitly priced annual VPN plan., VPN beginners who need maximal UI simplicity and one-tap connection., Users securing six or fewer personal devices routinely.
Surfshark
Surfshark

Robust Security Suite for Unlimited Devices

Ciroapp review
4.7
#2 in VPN

We find Surfshark offers extensive value, combining a high-speed VPN with crucial identity protection tools like Incogni and Antivirus coverage for all your gadgets. External feedback confirms users appreciate the seamless multi-device coverage and consistently highlight the exceptional speed and patience of the customer support team. Overall, Surfshark stands out as a leading choice for users prioritizing extensive coverage and robust security features backed by excellent human assistance.

Pros

  • Protects an unlimited number of simultaneous devices.
  • Customer support is exceptionally fast, professional, and helpful.
  • Comprehensive cybersecurity bundles (Surfshark One) available.
  • Easy to install and simple user experience across multiple platforms.

Cons

  • Users occasionally report VPN connection dropouts.
  • Some third-party applications may conflict, requiring exclusion lists.
  • Setup can be complex with non-standard logins (e.g., Amazon ID) or specific devices (e.g., Fire Stick).
Pricing
Not explicitly stated
Free trial
Money-back30 days
Best for
Large families or heavy users needing unlimited simultaneous connections., Users prioritizing advanced identity protection like Incogni data removal., Anyone needing a comprehensive security bundle with Antivirus and ID leak alerts.
Quick verdict
Choose ClearVPN if you prioritize maximum UI simplicity and need a basic, reliable VPN for six or fewer devices.
Choose Surfshark if you need to secure every device in a large family or want advanced digital identity protection like Incogni and Antivirus.

AboutClearVPN

ClearVPN is an incredibly simple yet powerful VPN service. It’s the perfect choice for users who want to expand their digital horizons and achieve top-level protection without complexity. This app hides powerful technology behind a single button for a truly effortless experience. The eye-pleasing interface is simple and elegant, making your journey pleasant and smooth. You can also connect up to six devices per account. 💡

AboutSurfshark

Surfshark offers a complete toolkit for defending your digital life. The core service is a robust VPN that secures your connection and works tirelessly wherever you go. This intuitive design means you will master it quickly. 💡

Beyond the VPN, Surfshark shields your entire device with Antivirus. This real-time defense works in the backstage, scanning files before you open them to keep malicious threats out. It even includes webcam protection. Finally, identity tools like Incogni and Alternative ID help guard your personal information. Incogni removes your data from the lists of data brokers. Alternative ID gives you a virtual phone number and email address to use for online registrations instead of your private details. It’s an easy-to-use app you can download on all your devices.

Highlights

Quick winners by category at a glance.
Ease of Use
ClearVPN’s elegant design focuses entirely on one-tap connection and minimum configuration. It is perfect for beginners.
Feature Set
Surfshark offers Antivirus, IP Rotator, MultiHop, and Incogni. ClearVPN is limited only to core VPN service.
Value for Money
Surfshark's unlimited device coverage dramatically increases its overall value proposition. ClearVPN only covers six devices.
Customer Support
Surfshark offers exceptionally fast and highly praised 24/7 live chat support. ClearVPN’s support is inconsistent.
Global Server Reach
Surfshark serves 100+ countries with 3200+ servers. ClearVPN serves a smaller network of only 45+ countries.
Scalability
Surfshark scales infinitely, covering unlimited devices simultaneously. ClearVPN is strictly limited to six connections.

Feature Comparison

Compare key features side by side
Simultaneous Connections
ClearVPN:6 devices
Surfshark:Unlimited devices
Surfshark
Server Country Count
ClearVPN:45+ countries
Surfshark:100+ countries
Surfshark
Total Server Count
ClearVPN:Not specified
Surfshark:3200+ servers
Surfshark
Unique UI Hook
ClearVPN:One-Tap Connectivity
Surfshark:Advanced Nexus Tech (MultiHop, Rotator)
Tie
Available Free Trial
ClearVPN:
Surfshark:
ClearVPN
Money-Back Guarantee
ClearVPN:30 days
Surfshark:30 days
Tie
Strict No-Logs Policy
ClearVPN:
Surfshark:
Tie
Antivirus/Malware Protection
ClearVPN:
Surfshark:Yes (Surfshark One)
Surfshark
Automated Data Removal (Incogni)
ClearVPN:
Surfshark:Yes (Surfshark One)
Surfshark
IP Rotator Feature
ClearVPN:
Surfshark:
Surfshark
Custom Server Pairing (MultiHop)
ClearVPN:
Surfshark:
Surfshark
Specialized Location Filters
ClearVPN:Smart Hashtags (e.g., 'lowest prices')
Surfshark:Standard selection
Tie
Subscription Model
ClearVPN:VPN only
Surfshark:VPN + Security Bundle options
Tie
Customer Support Method
ClearVPN:24/7 (Details not specified)
Surfshark:24/7 Live Chat & Email
Surfshark
RAM-Only Servers
ClearVPN:No data
Surfshark:
Surfshark
Feature Comparison Summary
1
ClearVPN
5
Ties
9
Surfshark

Features Overview

We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.

Device Coverage Limit

Surfshark protects unlimited devices; ClearVPN stops at six connections. Surfshark is superior for large households.

Surfshark

ClearVPN limits users to six simultaneous connections per account subscription. This is usually adequate for a solo user or a small family's main devices. ClearVPN ensures everyone gets reliable speed and basic security coverage. Surfshark offers true value by supporting an unlimited number of devices concurrently. You can protect every phone, tablet, and smart TV within your entire household. This feature makes Surfshark exceptionally cost-effective for large families or users with many gadgets. This difference is the largest factor in value calculation between ClearVPN and Surfshark. Surfshark scales infinitely, while ClearVPN maintains a fixed, lower ceiling. If protecting many extended family members is a need, Surfshark is the only real option to consider.

Advanced Security Features

Surfshark offers a comprehensive security suite; ClearVPN offers core VPN defense. Surfshark bundles Antivirus and Incogni.

Surfshark

ClearVPN focuses squarely on being a simple, fast, one-tap core VPN solution. It provides high-level encryption and a strict No-Logs policy for secure browsing. ClearVPN does not offer supplementary tools like Antivirus protection or identity management. Surfshark, especially the Surfshark One bundle, is a complete digital security toolbox. It includes Antivirus, leak alerts, and Incogni, which removes your data from broker lists. Surfshark gives layers of protection beyond a standard VPN connection. If you want a one-stop-shop that handles malware and data privacy, Surfshark clearly beats ClearVPN. ClearVPN requires users to supply their own third-party security software. Surfshark's Incogni tool proactively fights data brokers, a huge advantage ClearVPN does not match.

Global Server Reach

Surfshark serves 100+ countries; ClearVPN covers 45+ locations worldwide. Surfshark provides more global access.

Surfshark

ClearVPN provides adequate geographic diversity with servers across more than 45 countries globally. This is sufficient for accessing most common streaming regions and finding low prices. ClearVPN focuses on automatically connecting you to the fastest server available. Surfshark offers a significantly larger network, spanning 3200+ servers in over 100 different countries. This massive reach means Surfshark is far better for global travelers or complex geo-unblocking needs. Surfshark uses RAM-only servers for better privacy. Surfshark's network depth and breadth give it a definitive edge in terms of worldwide accessibility and performance reliability. ClearVPN’s network is good but simply cannot compete with Surfshark’s scale. Travelers who often hop between less common countries will find that Surfshark offers better coverage and connection reliability.

Setup Simplicity

ClearVPN provides one-tap ease for novices; Surfshark is easy but more feature-intensive. ClearVPN is the simplest VPN.

ClearVPN

ClearVPN is specifically built around maximal simplicity, using a ‘one-tap’ approach. Users praised its modern, easy-to-use interface and quick installation process. ClearVPN handles complex configuration automatically in the background. Surfshark is also known for ease of use across multiple platforms and quick installation. However, accessing its advanced Nexus features adds configuration steps. Surfshark requires slightly more user interaction than ClearVPN’s minimal setup. If your priority is zero configuration and just getting secure immediately, ClearVPN holds a slight advantage. Surfshark offers more power but demands more attention to settings. ClearVPN is the perfect choice for a true digital novice scared of complex VPN settings and menus.

Subscription Reliability

Surfshark’s billing processes are reliable; ClearVPN users report significant unauthorized charges. Surfshark is a safer subscription.

Surfshark

ClearVPN users report high friction regarding the subscription and billing processes on the platform. Multiple customers state unauthorized annual charges occurred after canceling the 3-day free trial. Managing or updating subscriptions also proved frustrating. Surfshark’s processes are smooth, transparent, and backed by highly rated customer service. The 30-day money-back guarantee process is reportedly easy and quick to complete. Surfshark ensures peace of mind during subscription management. If minimizing frustration and avoiding unexpected bills is critical, Surfshark is the safer choice over ClearVPN. Operational reliability matters as much as technical performance. ClearVPN needs to drastically improve its system for managing the free trial cancellation workflow immediately.

Customer Support

Surfshark offers exceptional 24/7 support; ClearVPN's support is available but less praised. Surfshark's live chat wins easily.

Surfshark

ClearVPN offers 24/7 customer support for premium subscribers needing assistance. The exact quality and speed of this support are not consistently praised in user testimonials. Support interactions were sometimes cited as frustrating. Surfshark is repeatedly singled out for its exceptionally fast, professional, and helpful 24/7 live chat agents. Reviewers frequently name specific Surfshark agents praising their patience and skill. Complex issues are resolved quickly. For critical billing or connection issues, Surfshark offers demonstrably better human support than ClearVPN. Excellent support mitigates technical friction quickly. High-quality customer support available instantly makes Surfshark far more dependable when problems arise.

Our Verdict

Objective guidance based on features, pricing, and user fit.

The decision between ClearVPN and Surfshark is quite clear: Do you want simplicity or comprehensive power? For most people, **Surfshark is the overall winner** due to its expansive feature set and superior reliability. Surfshark offers a true all-in-one security toolkit for modern digital life. ClearVPN’s superpower is its elegant, one-tap simplicity. It’s perfect for VPN novices who only want basic, affordable, set-it-and-forget-it security. ClearVPN offers highly competitive annual pricing (effective $3.75/month) and covers up to six devices. If you truly only need a basic firewall for a few main devices, ClearVPN is an affordable entry point. Surfshark, however, provides protection for your whole universe of gadgets. Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it incredible value for large households. It goes far beyond standard VPNs with Surfshark One, including integrated Antivirus defense and Incogni data removal. Critically, reliability is a major difference. Surfshark covers 100+ countries and provides rock-solid, highly-praised customer support. ClearVPN, despite its ease of use, suffers user complaints regarding connection inconsistency and problematic trial cancellation billing. If you hate subscription friction, Surfshark is the safer choice. If you value total coverage, advanced security features, and exceptional support, choose Surfshark. If you are a solo user focused purely on the absolute lowest advertised price and maximum UI simplicity, ClearVPN might suffice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Surfshark's unlimited device policy compare to ClearVPN’s limits?

Surfshark allows you to protect unlimited devices simultaneously with one subscription. ClearVPN limits you strictly to six connections per account. Surfshark is a dramatically better choice for large or multi-device households.

Which service is better for global travelers and bypassing geo-restrictions?

Surfshark wins here by operating servers in over 100 countries globally. ClearVPN offers services in a smaller network of only 45+ countries. Surfshark gives you much wider geographic selection and opportunity.

Does ClearVPN offer specialized security tools like Antivirus or ID protection?

No, ClearVPN focuses only on core VPN functions and speed optimization. Surfshark offers comprehensive bundles, including Antivirus and the Incogni data removal tool.

Which VPN has better customer support if I run into a technical problem?

Surfshark is widely praised for its fast, professional 24/7 live chat support. ClearVPN’s support is available but receives more neutral or negative feedback regarding its effectiveness.

Is ClearVPN really cheaper than Surfshark for an individual user?

ClearVPN provides its annual price ($44.99) explicitly, making it a low-cost option. Surfshark's pricing is not stated here, but ClearVPN is cheaper unless Surfshark's unlimited devices are heavily utilized.

Which VPN is simpler to install and use for a beginner?

ClearVPN is specifically designed for simple, one-tap connection and superior ease of use. Surfshark is also user-friendly but offers many advanced settings that could overwhelm a total beginner.

Ready to Choose?

Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.