Mullvad vs Surfshark
Mullvad and Surfshark represent two fundamentally different VPN philosophies. Mullvad demands true anonymity and offers a fixed, ethical price point since 2009. Surfshark provides total security bundles for unlimited devices globally. The choice is deep privacy focus versus extensive features for the whole family.
Unmatched Privacy with Fixed Ethical Pricing
We admire Mullvad's radical transparency and ethical pricing structure, setting a benchmark for strictly privacy-focused VPNs. Overall, this service delivers exceptional speed and true anonymity, making it the top choice for discerning users who prioritize security over non-essential streaming access.
Pros
- True anonymity from day one (account number only, no personal data required).
- Remarkably simple, flat-rate pricing (€5/month) since 2009.
- Excellent speeds, high performance, and low latency using WireGuard.
- Supports flexible, privacy-focused payments (cash, crypto with 10% discount).
Cons
- Customer support response times are frequently reported as slow.
- Lack of dedicated, user-friendly apps for key mobile operating systems (iOS/Android).
- Inconsistent unblocking of major streaming services and often blocked by search engines.
Robust Security Suite for Unlimited Devices
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).
AboutMullvad
Mullvad VPN is a privacy service built to fight for a free and open internet. They strongly believe society improves when people have the right to privacy. The service works to prevent mass surveillance and censorship. By using a trustworthy VPN, you ensure your online behavior is not treated as a commodity. Mullvad VPN is perfect for anyone seeking a dependable and straightforward method to stabilize their digital freedom. 💡
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
Feature Comparison
Features Overview
We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.
True Anonymity
Mullvad requires no personal data; Surfshark needs standard subscription details.
Mullvad starts with instant anonymity using only a unique account number. Zero personal data, like email or name, is ever required by Mullvad. This policy ensures your identity is never linked to your VPN usage. Surfshark uses a standard login process requiring typical customer information for signup. This traditional model is easier for management but reduces overall anonymity. The core difference is Mullvad's focus on verifiable, non-traceable identity separation. Mullvad embodies the strict privacy philosophy. Surfshark focuses on accessibility and ease of use, sacrificing Mullvad's radical anonymity measure.
Device Coverage
Surfshark supports unlimited devices; Mullvad limits coverage to five devices.
Mullvad allows connection and protection for up to five simultaneous devices. This limit is suitable for solo users or very small households. If you connect a sixth device, another will immediately disconnect. Surfshark sets no limits on concurrent connections per single subscription. You can protect your entire home and extended family with Surfshark easily. Surfshark offers significantly better value for money for large families or users with many gadgets. Mullvad is restricted in comprehensive household coverage. The unlimited coverage of Surfshark removes the hassle of device management for high-usage households.
Pricing Clarity
Mullvad has fixed €5 pricing; Surfshark uses flexible introductory bundles.
Mullvad uses a wonderfully simple and fixed flat rate of €5 per month. This transparent price includes VAT and has not changed since 2009. You can budget reliably knowing the cost is stable forever. Surfshark offers tiered cybersecurity bundles, VPN and Surfshark One, with variable costs. While specific prices are unstated, Surfshark’s model is more complex than Mullvad’s fixed rate. Mullvad wins on predictability and honesty by avoiding sales and complex tiers. Surfshark rewards long-term commitments with the best overall feature access. If stable budgeting is crucial, Mullvad’s fixed price means no hidden renewal surprises.
Advanced Protection
Surfshark includes Antivirus and Incogni; Mullvad provides only the core VPN service.
Mullvad is primarily focused on providing a high-performance, anonymous VPN tunnel. It does not include Antivirus or identity protection features. Surfshark One includes a full suite: Antivirus, Alert (leak detection), and Incogni. Incogni actively works to remove your data from data broker lists. Surfshark is designed as an all-in-one defense system for modern threats. Mullvad concentrates strictly on connection privacy and speed. Users needing comprehensive protection against malware and leaks must select the Surfshark One bundle.
Customer Support
Surfshark offers quick 24/7 service; Mullvad's response times are reportedly slow.
Mullvad users frequently report that customer support response times can be quite slow. The service relies heavily on self-help documentation. Surfshark provides exceptionally fast and professional 24/7 support via live chat and email. User reviews frequently praise the speed of Surfshark's agents. For immediate troubleshooting or billing issues, Surfshark offers a superior and reliable customer experience. Mullvad's ethical stance outweighs support speed. Users needing quick resolution to technical problems will find Surfshark much more helpful and responsive.
Anonymous Payments
Mullvad accepts cash and crypto; Surfshark uses standard online payment methods.
Mullvad accepts privacy-centric payment methods, including mailing physical cash to its office. You can also pay using crypto like Bitcoin, receiving a 10% discount. Surfshark uses standard digital payment methods associated with online subscriptions. There are no options for cash payments or specific crypto incentives mentioned. This is a major privacy differentiator where Mullvad's commitment shines through. Mullvad ensures your payment cannot be traced back to your identity. If you want financial separation from your VPN service, Mullvad is the clear and only choice.
Streaming & Geo-Unblocking
Surfshark unblocks more content; Mullvad IPs are often blocked by video services.
External reviews indicate Mullvad's IP addresses are frequently blocked by major streaming platforms. Mullvad is not recommended for entertainment purposes. Surfshark provides 3200+ servers across 100+ countries, offering vast global access. This network size suggests high reliability for geo-unblocking. If bypassing geo-restrictions for sites like Netflix or YouTube is your priority, Surfshark will perform much better. Mullvad prioritizes security over media access. Users who travel frequently and rely on streaming services should select Surfshark for better overall consistency.
Advanced VPN Features
Surfshark offers Nexus technology; Mullvad keeps it simple and focused.
Mullvad offers a streamlined VPN experience focused on speed and reliable connection. It strictly lacks advanced features like IP rotation or custom server pairing. Surfshark offers Nexus technology including Dynamic MultiHop and IP Rotator. The IP Rotator changes your IP every ten minutes automatically. Surfshark provides tools for highly customized and specialized privacy routing for advanced users. Mullvad avoids feature complexity to maintain simplicity. If you require cutting-edge connection technologies like IP rotation, Surfshark is the only provider that fits the need.
Our Verdict
Choosing between Mullvad and Surfshark is choosing between core privacy and massive utility. Surfshark is likely the better choice for the average user and large families. Mullvad is the clear winner if maintaining radical anonymity is your crucial priority. Mullvad’s superpower is its unwavering commitment to absolute anonymity and transparent pricing. You sign up using a unique account number, eliminating the need for personal data entirely. The fixed €5 price point since 2009 makes Mullvad ethically refreshing and completely predictable. Surfshark excels through sheer feature volume and comprehensive coverage. Unlike Mullvad's five-device limit, Surfshark protects an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. Features like Antivirus, IP Rotator, and Incogni (data broker removal) create a robust security bundle. The deciding factor should be identity vs. coverage. If you need to pay in cash or truly separate your usage from your personal identity, choose Mullvad. If you need to cover every gadget in your home and want advanced security tools, Surfshark is unmatched. Use Surfshark for maximum functionality, unlimited devices, and reliable 24/7 support. Use Mullvad if absolute anonymity, fixed pricing, and high-performance speeds are your ultimate non-negotiables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which service is better for large families: Mullvad or Surfshark?
Surfshark is significantly better for large families and households. A single Surfshark subscription supports unlimited simultaneous devices. Mullvad limits your coverage to a maximum of five devices per account.
Can I pay for my VPN anonymously using cash with Mullvad or Surfshark?
Only Mullvad accepts anonymous cash payments mailed to its office location. Mullvad also offers a 10% discount for payments made using cryptocurrencies. Surfshark relies on standard, traceable digital payment methods.
Does Surfshark offer a data broker removal service like Mullvad?
Surfshark offers Incogni, which is an automated data broker removal service. Mullvad focuses solely on the core VPN service and does not offer identity management tools like Incogni or Antivirus.
Is Mullvad good for streaming geo-restricted content, unlike Surfshark?
Mullvad is not ideal for streaming, as external reviews indicate its IPs are often blocked. Surfshark, with its 3200+ servers in 100+ countries, is much more reliable for geo-unblocking and streaming access.
How long is the money-back guarantee for Mullvad vs Surfshark?
Surfshark offers a lengthy 30-day money-back guarantee with all subscriptions. Mullvad offers a shorter review period of 14 days. Note that Mullvad's guarantee is void if you paid with cash.
Which has better customer support, Mullvad or Surfshark?
Surfshark offers superior customer support via fast, responsive 24/7 live chat. While effective for refunds, Mullvad’s support is generally reported by users as being much slower.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.