Surfshark vs UltraVPN

Surfshark vs. UltraVPN

Surfshark and UltraVPN are two prominent VPN services offering solid performance and essential features like split tunneling and multi-platform support. However, their approaches differ significantly: Surfshark excels with an extensive server network and advanced privacy tools, while UltraVPN focuses on affordability and straightforward functionality. This article compares their service range, integration, pricing, and security to help you make an informed decision.

Service range and customization options

Both Surfshark and UltraVPN provide comprehensive VPN services that cater to a wide range of user needs. They support popular platforms such as Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, ensuring compatibility with the majority of devices. Both services include basic features like split tunneling, allowing users to control which apps or websites are routed through the VPN. Additionally, they offer unlimited data usage, making them suitable for browsing, streaming, and occasional file sharing. Their customizable settings and support for multiple protocols like WireGuard and Hydra (for UltraVPN) enhance user flexibility.

What sets these two apart, however, is the scope and depth of their offerings. Surfshark boasts a broader server network with over 3,200 servers across 100 countries, providing better access to geo-restricted content. They also offer unique features such as multi-hop (double encryption through two servers), NoBorders mode for restricted regions, and a dedicated IP option for consistency. UltraVPN, while smaller in scope with 1300 servers across 18 countries, provides tools like PassWatch (a browser-based password manager) and Dark Web Scan to monitor data breaches.

Ease of use and integration

Both Surfshark and UltraVPN deliver user-friendly experiences, making them accessible even to VPN beginners. Their intuitive interfaces and simple installation processes ensure users can set up and connect with minimal effort. Both services allow simultaneous connections on multiple devices, with Surfshark supporting unlimited devices and UltraVPN allowing up to 10. These services also feature quick-connect options, helping users automatically connect to the fastest server available.

The key differences emerge in the depth of platform integration. Surfshark’s cross-platform functionality includes browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, Smart DNS for streaming on Smart TVs, and advanced mobile features like GPS override on Android. UltraVPN, while offering strong functionality for mainstream platforms, does not support routers, Linux, or Smart TVs. Additionally, their app is more limited in customization compared to Surfshark, which allows users to toggle advanced settings like split tunneling or kill switch features more seamlessly.

Security and compliance

Surfshark and UltraVPN prioritize user privacy and security, employing AES-256 encryption, no-logs policies, and kill switches to protect against data leaks. Both services support advanced VPN protocols like WireGuard, known for its balance of speed and security. These shared security measures ensure encrypted and safe connections for users across different regions.

However, Surfshark excels in offering a more robust security suite. Their RAM-only servers ensure that no user data is stored permanently, and features like multi-hop and CleanWeb (ad and malware blocker) provide additional layers of protection. Surfshark’s independent audits further verify their commitment to transparency. In contrast, UltraVPN, while based in privacy-friendly Panama, lacks diskless servers and independent audits. Their limited server network and reliance on leased servers could pose challenges for privacy-focused users. Moreover, their Hydra protocol is proprietary, which might deter users from seeking open-source options for transparency.

Pricing

Both Surfshark and UltraVPN offer affordable pricing plans with discounts for long-term commitments. Surfshark’s plans start at $15.45/month, with significant discounts for 24-month subscriptions, leaving them at $2.19/month. They also provide a 30-day money-back guarantee and a seven-day free trial, allowing users to test the service risk-free. While their initial monthly price is higher, Surfshark offers excellent value with unlimited device connections and advanced features.

UltraVPN, on the other hand, is more affordable initially, with an annual plan costing $35.88 which puts it at $2.99/month. Their UltraVPN+ plan adds antivirus capabilities for $47.88/year which makes it $3.99/month. However, renewal rates are significantly higher, with UltraVPN renewing at $99.99/year, which may catch users off guard. Additionally, their free plan is limited to iOS devices and offers reduced speeds and server access.

Conclusion

Both Surfshark and UltraVPN have their strengths and weaknesses. Surfshark stands out with their extensive server network, advanced features like multi-hop and CleanWeb, and cross-platform integration. It’s an ideal choice for users seeking comprehensive privacy tools and superior global coverage. UltraVPN, with their lower entry price and unique features like PassWatch, appeals to budget-conscious users who prioritize affordability and basic functionality.