Have you ever thought about how safe your online life is? We’re looking into PIA vs Surfshark, top two VPN services. Virtual Private Networks have become key for keeping our internet use safe.
This comparison will show you what makes them different. We’ll look at their privacy, speed, and prices. Knowing this, you can choose the best VPN for your needs, whether it’s for streaming, browsing, or gaming while working from home.
Table of Contents
Introduction to VPN Services
In today’s digital world, VPNs are more important than ever. With more data breaches and cyber threats, we need better security. VPNs help by letting you access blocked content, stay anonymous, and get around location limits.
I’ve learned a lot about VPNs and how people use them. Some use them to watch content from other countries. Others use them for work to keep their connections safe. When choosing a VPN, people often look at speed, how well it works with different devices, and customer support.
What is PIA (Private Internet Access)?
Private Internet Access is a top VPN choice for those who value privacy and customization. It has a strict no-logs policy to keep users’ data safe. Its global network offers many encrypted connection services for secure browsing.
It has advanced security features like dual kill switches and split tunneling. These features let users customize their VPN experience. This is something many other VPNs can’t offer.
Overview and Features
PIA’s performance has gotten much better in recent years. It now offers faster connection speeds, making it a strong competitor. Users can choose from OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols for the best performance. Also lets users adjust encryption levels for a balance between speed and security. It supports up to 14 devices at once, perfect for big families.
Pricing Tiers and Plans
Monthly cost is just $1.75, but you need to commit for three years. This makes it a great deal for long-term users. Compared to other VPNs, PIA’s pricing is competitive, thanks to its large server network.
For those on a budget, PIA is a great choice. Its pricing is clear and upfront, making it a solid option for those who want to save money without sacrificing privacy.
What is Surfshark?
Surfshark is a flexible and powerful VPN service. It helps users stay safe online worldwide. It offers unlimited connections and a strict no-logs policy for privacy. Users also get advanced features like Dynamic Multi-hop and AES-256 encryption.
This makes Surfshark a top choice for those who value security. It’s a key player in the best VPN comparison.
Overview and Features
This VPN has many tools to protect your data and improve your online time. Key online security tools include:
- Clean Web ad blocker
- Cookie Pop-up Blocker
- Kill switch feature for automatic disconnection
- Real-time alerts through Surfshark Alert
- Support for multiple protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard
It also has servers in over 100 countries. This ensures you can access it easily. Speeds are good too, with up to 278 Mbps download speed using WireGuard.
Pricing Options
Knowing its pricing is important for those watching their budget. Surfshark offers different plans for a fair price comparison with others. The monthly plan is $15.45, but longer plans save you money.
| Plan | Cost Per Month | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $15.45 | $15.45 |
| 12-Month Plan | $2.79 | $41.86 |
Surfshark and PIA both offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. This gives users peace of mind when trying out the service. Long-term plans offer big savings, making high-quality VPN services more affordable.
PIA vs Surfshark: Key Features Comparison
When we look at VPN services, checking their privacy and security is key. Both PIA and Surfshark offer online security services for safe browsing. A detailed comparison shows their unique strengths and weaknesses for different users.
Privacy and Security Features
Both VPNs promise to keep user data safe with a no-logs policy. Surfshark’s policy has been checked by third parties, but PIA’s hasn’t. Yet, both allow torrenting on all servers for users who want to share files freely. Surfshark is based in The Netherlands, outside the Five Eyes alliance, while PIA is in the United States, which might affect privacy laws.
Encryption Protocols Used
PIA offers 128-bit and 256-bit encryption, while Surfshark only uses 256-bit. Surfshark’s WireGuard protocol makes data transfer fast and secure. This flexibility lets users choose the right security level for their needs.
Server Network and Locations
A big VPN server network is important for good performance and access to content. PIA has over 30,000 servers in 91 countries, giving users many options. Surfshark has 3,200 servers in 100 countries, making content more accessible worldwide. Both offer fast connections and help users watch international content, but PIA might have a slight advantage in server availability.
Speed Analysis of VPN Services
It’s important to know how fast VPN services are for secure browsing, gaming, and remote work. I’ve looked at Private Internet Access (PIA) and Surfshark to see how they affect internet speed. Recent tests show how these VPNs compare in different situations.
Internet Speed Loss During Usage
Speed tests show PIA and Surfshark keep speeds relatively high for secure browsing. PIA’s download speed is about 90 Mbps, which is a 10% drop from 100 Mbps. Surfshark’s download speed is 87.25 Mbps, a 12.75% drop.
Though small, these drops can affect VPN performance.
Performance in Different Scenarios
PIA and Surfshark perform differently in scenarios like streaming and gaming. PIA’s average download speed is 94.76 Mbps on a U.S. server, beating Surfshark’s 90.32 Mbps. This is key for smooth streaming and gaming.
Here’s a quick comparison of their performance under specific conditions:
| Scenario | PIA Download Speed | Surfshark Download Speed |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Server | 94.76 Mbps | 90.32 Mbps |
| UK Server | 105.16 Mbps | 102.08 Mbps |
| Japan Server | 66.59 Mbps | 70.49 Mbps |
Ping times are also important, like in gaming. PIA has a 9ms ping, while Surfshark has a 10ms ping. These small differences can make a big difference in gaming.
Device Compatibility and Support
Choosing a VPN means checking if it works with my devices and operating systems. PIA and Surfshark both offer great support for many platforms. This makes it easy to keep my online activities safe.
Supported Operating Systems
Both VPNs work well with the main operating systems:
- Windows
- macOS
- Android
- iOS
They also have browser extensions for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. This makes it easy to use them every day and stay safe online.
Simultaneous Connections
PIA lets you connect up to 10 devices at once. This is good for most users. But, if you have lots of devices, it might not be enough.
Surfshark, on the other hand, lets you connect unlimited devices. This is great for families or anyone with many devices. It offers a lot of flexibility.
| Feature | PIA | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Supported Operating Systems | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 Devices | Unlimited Devices |
| Browser Extensions | Chrome, Firefox,Edge | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| App Availability | Mobile Apps | Mobile Apps |
| Router Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
Streaming Capabilities of PIA and Surfshark
In today’s world, streaming content from anywhere is key. I’ll explore how Private Internet Access (PIA) and Surfshark handle Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. They also help get past geo-restrictions.
Access to Streaming Platforms
PIA and Surfshark are top choices for streaming. They’re great at unlocking content on Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. PIA has nine streaming servers for smooth access to shows. Surfshark, with over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, also offers excellent streaming.
Bypassing Geo-Restrictions
Both VPNs are great at getting past geo-blocks. Surfshark has special features for this. PIA uses its huge server network to beat geo-blockers. With these VPNs, you can watch content worldwide without limits.
| Feature | Private Internet Access (PIA) | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Servers | 35,912 servers in 84 countries | 3,200 servers in 100 countries |
| Pricing (Monthly) | Starts at $1.98/month | Starts at $15.45/month |
| Specialty Streaming Servers | 9 specialty servers | N/A |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited |
| Performance Rating | 8.5/10 | 9/10 |
Pros and Cons of PIA
Understanding the PIA advantages and PIA disadvantages is key for those thinking about using this VPN. I’ll explore the main benefits and possible downsides of Private Internet Access.
Advantages of Using PIA
PIA has many good points that make it a great choice for users:
- Extensive Server Network: PIA has over 35,000 servers in 91 countries. This makes it easy to connect and find servers.
- Affordability: It’s very cheap at just $2.03 a month, making it a top pick for those on a budget, even more so with its three-year plan.
- Strong Privacy Features: PIA is a no-logs VPN provider. It has passed legal tests without sharing user data in 2016 and 2018.
- Range of Applications: PIA has VPN apps for desktops and mobiles, plus browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.
- Advanced Security Options: It has a kill switch and split tunneling. These features meet different security needs.
Disadvantages to Consider
PIA also has some downsides to think about:
- Inconsistent Speeds: The WireGuard protocol’s performance can vary. This leads to unpredictable speeds.
- Customer Support Limitations: Some users say the support isn’t as good as others in the industry.
- Ad Blocker Efficiency: PIA’s MACE ad blocker isn’t as good as others, according to some users.
- Jurisdiction Concerns: Being based in the USA might worry some users. The USA’s privacy laws are not as strict as some other countries.
Looking at the pros and cons helps users decide. PIA offers great value and features. But, it’s important to weigh these against the drawbacks to see if it fits your needs.
Pros and Cons of Surfshark
Looking at Surfshark’s good and bad points is key for anyone thinking about using it. I’ll share the main things that might sway my choice.
Advantages of Using Surfshark
Surfshark has many pluses that users might find appealing. Its low cost, starting at $2.19 a month, is a big plus. This makes it a strong contender in the VPN world.
It also lets you connect an unlimited number of devices at once. This is great for keeping all your gadgets safe. Surfshark is fast, connecting to servers in just two seconds. This is super helpful when you need to get online quickly.
It has a wide range of features, like 256-bit AES encryption and split tunneling. It also has a no-logs policy, checked by Deloitte in 2023. Plus, its “Rotating IP” feature changes your IP address often for more security.
Surfshark also has “MultiHop,” which sends your traffic through two servers for extra security. It has antivirus through “Surfshark One” and CleanWeb blocks ads and trackers. This shows Surfshark cares about your online experience.
Disadvantages to Consider
Even with its many benefits, Surfshark has some downsides. One issue is its sometimes spotty malware blocking. Users should know these Surfshark disadvantages to make a smart choice.
Understanding both the good and bad points helps compare Surfshark to other VPNs. Knowing these drawbacks can help pick the best VPN for your needs.
Price Comparison Between PIA and Surfshark
It’s important to know how much PIA and Surfshark cost. This VPN price comparison will show you the monthly and yearly prices. It also points out any discounts or special deals.
Monthly and Annual Subscription Costs
PIA and Surfshark have similar prices. Here’s a clear look at what they charge:
| VPN Service | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | Best 2-Year Plan Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Internet Access (PIA) | $11.95 | $143.40 ($11.95/month) | $2.03/month (Total: $48.72) |
| Surfshark | $15.45 | $49.01 ($4.08/month) | $2.19/month (Total: $52.56) |
PIA’s best deal is very affordable, perfect for those watching their budget. Surfshark also has good deals, mainly for those committing for longer.
Discounts and Promotions
Both VPNs offer great VPN discounts and special promotions. Right now, PIA has an 82% discount on a 24-month plan, plus four months free. Surfshark has an 86% discount on its 24-month plan, with two extra months free.
These deals are a fantastic chance to save on privacy services. Plus, both PIA and Surfshark offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. This lets you try their services without worry.
Overall Security for Online Activities
Surfshark and Private Internet Access (PIA) both have strong online security services. They follow strict data privacy laws, thanks to their locations in the Netherlands and Panama. This helps keep user data safe.
Security audits from Deloitte and Cure53 have checked Surfshark’s security. PIA also got a thumbs-up from Deloitte. These audits show that both services are serious about protecting your data.
Both services use advanced technology to keep your data safe. They use RAM-only servers that erase data if seized. They also use AES-256 encryption, which is considered the best in the business.
PIA is special because it supports the WireGuard protocol. This makes it faster and more private. Surfshark, on the other hand, has CleanWeb and MultiHop for extra security.
In conclusion, Surfshark and PIA both offer great security. But, they have different features that might suit different needs. Knowing these differences helps you choose the best for your online safety.
Conclusion
Looking back at our PIA vs Surfshark summary, we see both services have great points. Private Internet Access (PIA) has lots of servers and is good for those who want to save money. It has a high rating of 9.3 and a low yearly cost.
Surfshark, on the other hand, is fast and easy to use, with a score of 9.4. It’s perfect for those who need quick browsing and don’t mind sharing connections. Its two-year plan is also a great deal for those watching their budget.
So, which one is right for you? It depends on what you value most. If you want strong privacy and a good price, PIA is a good choice. But if you need fast speeds and can use it on many devices, Surfshark might be better. Think about what you need online to decide which VPN is best for you.
FAQ
What is a VPN and how does it work?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts your internet connection. It makes your data safe by creating a secure tunnel. This tunnel protects your information from being seen by others.
What are the primary benefits of using a VPN?
VPNs offer many benefits. They protect your privacy and security online. They also let you access content that’s not available in your area.
How does PIA ensure user privacy?
Private Internet Access (PIA) doesn’t keep logs of your online activities. They also have features like a kill switch and split tunneling. These help keep your browsing private.
What are the key features of Surfshark?
Surfshark stands out for its unlimited connections and strong privacy policy. It also unblocks popular streaming services well. These features make it a top choice for VPNs.
How do PIA and Surfshark compare in terms of pricing?
Both PIA and Surfshark have good prices. PIA is cheaper monthly, but Surfshark offers more value with unlimited connections. It’s important to look at their plans to see which is best for you.
Can I use these VPNs on multiple devices?
Yes, both PIA and Surfshark work on many devices. Surfshark lets you connect unlimited devices, while PIA has a limit. This is important if you want to protect many devices with one account.
How well do PIA and Surfshark unblock streaming services?
Both VPNs do well at unblocking streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu. But, how well they work can depend on your location and the server you use.
What encryption protocols do PIA and Surfshark use?
PIA and Surfshark use strong encryption like OpenVPN and IKEv2. This keeps your data safe online. It makes it hard for others to see your information.
Are there any disadvantages to using PIA or Surfshark?
PIA has many features but might slow down your internet and have poor customer support. Surfshark’s malware protection can be hit-or-miss. Think about these downsides based on what you need.
What should I consider when choosing between PIA and Surfshark?
When choosing, think about your budget, how many devices you need to protect, and your privacy needs. Also, consider how you’ll use the VPN. Each service has unique features for different users.
Curious to learn more? Check out this resource for an in-depth exploration of the other topics.
Sources:
Private Internet Access (PIA) Official Website
CyberNews: Surfshark vs. PIA Comparison
Security.org: Private Internet Access vs. Surfshark
Surfshark Blog: Surfshark vs. PIA
Comparitech: Private Internet Access vs. Surfshark
AllAboutCookies.org: Surfshark vs. PIA
CyberInsider: Surfshark vs. Private Internet Access (PIA)
