Hide.me vs Surfshark

Hide.me vs. Surfshark

Among the variety of VPN options, Hide.me and Surfshark are notable contenders. This comparison examines their service range and customization options, ease of use and integration, security and compliance, and pricing to assist users in making an informed choice that suits their needs.

Service range and customization options

Both Hide.me and Surfshark offer extensive server networks, enabling users to access content globally and maintain secure connections. Hide.me provides servers across 91 locations and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, SoftEther, and SSTP. Users can select protocols that best suit their needs.

Surfshark, on the other hand, boasts over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, offering features like MultiHop, which routes traffic through multiple servers for enhanced security, and CleanWeb, an ad-blocking tool that provides an ad-free browsing experience. Additionally, Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous device connections under a single subscription, making it highly advantageous for users with multiple devices.

Ease of use and integration

Both VPNs prioritize user experience with intuitive interfaces and support for multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, facilitating seamless integration across various devices. The installation processes are straightforward, enabling users to connect to preferred servers with minimal effort.

Surfshark's allowance of unlimited device connections provides a more flexible solution for users with numerous devices or large households. Additionally, Surfshark's browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox enhance its integration capabilities, offering users the convenience of securing their browsing activities directly through their web browsers. Hide.me offers split tunneling, allowing users to choose which apps use the VPN while others maintain direct internet access. Additionally, advanced features like port forwarding and custom DNS settings provide greater control for users with specific needs.

Security and compliance

Both Hide.me and Surfshark implement robust measures to protect user data. They utilize AES-256 encryption, the industry standard for secure data transmission, and adhere to strict no-logs policies, ensuring that user activities are not recorded or stored. Both VPNs also offer a kill switch feature, which automatically disconnects the internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.

A notable distinction lies in their jurisdictional locations. Hide.me is based in Malaysia, a country known for its privacy-friendly laws, while Surfshark operates under the jurisdiction of the Netherlands, an EU member. Users concerned about data retention laws may prefer Hide.me's location. Additionally, Surfshark offers advanced security features such as the MultiHop double VPN and CleanWeb ad-blocking, providing an extra layer of protection against online threats.

Pricing

Affordability is a significant factor when choosing a VPN service. Surfshark is recognized for its competitive pricing, offering plans as low as $1.99 per month annually, making it one of the more budget-friendly options in the market. Hide.me's pricing starts at $2.39 per month for a 27-month plan, which is relatively higher compared to some competitors. Both services offer 30-day money-back guarantees—allowing users to test the services risk-free.

While Hide.me offers a free tier with limited features, including access to select server locations and a 10GB monthly data cap, Surfshark does not provide a free version but compensates with its affordable long-term plans and unlimited device connections. Users seeking a free VPN with basic functionalities might find Hide.me's free plan appealing, whereas those looking for comprehensive features at a lower cost per month may prefer Surfshark's paid plans.

Conclusion

Both Hide.me and Surfshark deliver reliable VPN services with robust security features, user-friendly interfaces, and extensive server networks. Surfshark stands out with its unlimited device connections, advanced security options like MultiHop and CleanWeb, and more competitive pricing for long-term commitments. Hide.me, on the other hand, offers a privacy-friendly jurisdiction and a free tier suitable for users with minimal VPN needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences, specific security requirements, and budget considerations.