A Deep Dive Into Surfshark vs Pia: Features, Pricing, and Performance Compared

A Deep Dive Into Surfshark vs Pia: Features, Pricing, and Performance Compared

While both Surfshark and Pia are popular VPN providers, they differ significantly in terms of features, pricing, and performance. Surfshark offers a wide range of advanced features such as ad blocking, multi-hop connections, and split tunneling at an affordable price point, making it a great choice for users seeking value for money.

On the other hand, Pia has been in the industry longer and boasts strong encryption protocols and a strict no-logging policy but comes with a higher price tag. Choosing between these two VPNs will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Introduction

In this ever-evolving digital age, online privacy and security have become paramount concerns for individuals across the globe. As a result, Virtual Private Network (VPN) services have gained immense popularity as they promise to provide users with a secure and private internet browsing experience. Two of the most well-known names in the VPN industry are Surfshark and Pia (Private Internet Access). Both claim to offer top-notch features, competitive pricing, and exceptional performance. But which one truly reigns supreme? In this comprehensive article, we will dive deep into the world of Surfshark vs Pia and compare their features, pricing, and performance to determine which one is worth your hard-earned money.

Features Comparison: Surfshark vs Pia

When it comes to choosing a VPN service, features play a crucial role in making the final decision. Let’s take an in-depth look at what Surfshark and Pia have to offer.

Server Network Size

One of the significant factors that determine a VPN’s performance is its server network size. The more servers a provider has, the better chances it has at providing fast speeds and reliable connections. Currently, Surfshark boasts an impressive network of 3200+ servers spread across 65 countries, while Pia offers around 2400 servers in 77 countries. From a comparison of the features and performance of Windscribe Vs NordVPN, it is clear that both VPN services offer strong security and reliable speeds, but there are some key differences to consider. However, both providers are continuously expanding their networks to reach more users globally.

Winner: It’s a close call in terms of numbers; however, Surfshark edges over Pia due to its wider server coverage.

Advanced Security Features

Security is another crucial aspect when it comes to choosing a VPN service. Both Surfshark and Pia offer advanced security features to ensure their users’ online safety. Surfshark offers AES-256-GCM encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch that disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops. It also has extra features like MultiHop (double VPN) and Camouflage Mode (obfuscation) for added security. On the other hand, Pia provides AES-256-CBC encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch as well. However, it lacks additional security features like MultiHop and Camouflage Mode.

Winner: This round goes to Surfshark for providing more advanced security features compared to Pia.

Streaming and Torrenting

The ability to access geo-restricted content and torrent files safely is another essential aspect of a VPN service. Both Surfshark and Pia claim to support streaming and torrenting; however, let’s see how they fare in reality.

Surfshark has dedicated servers optimized for streaming on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, etc. It also supports torrenting on all its servers without any bandwidth restrictions. It offers unlimited simultaneous connections so that you can stream or torrent on multiple devices at once without any hassle.

Pia also claims to support streaming on all major platforms; however, during testing, we found that it struggles with unblocking some popular streaming services like Netflix. On the bright side, it allows P2P file sharing on all its servers with no limitations on bandwidth or speed.

Winner: In terms of streaming and torrenting capabilities, Surfshark outperforms Pia with its superior server optimization and unlimited simultaneous connections feature.

User-Friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface makes a significant difference in the overall user experience when using a VPN service. Both Surfshark and Pia offer easy-to-use interfaces, but let’s see how they differ.

Surfshark has a sleek and modern interface that is easy to navigate, even for novice users. Its main screen displays the current server location, IP address, and connection status, with an option to change servers right next to it. For a secure and reliable way to protect your online activity on a Mac, consider using a Virtual Private Network solution designed specifically for Mac users. It also has a Quick Connect feature that automatically connects you to the best server available based on your location.

Pia’s interface may not be as visually appealing as Surfshark’s; however, it is straightforward and functional. It also offers a Quick Connect button along with a list of recommended servers based on your location.

Winner: In terms of user-friendliness, both providers provide an excellent experience; however, Surfshark takes the lead due to its modern and intuitive interface.

Pricing Comparison: Surfshark vs Pia

In this section, we will compare the pricing plans offered by Surfshark and Pia and determine which one offers better value for money.

Surfshark offers three subscription plans: 1 month at $12.95, 6 months at $38.94 ($6.49 per month), and 24 months at $59.76 ($2.49 per month). All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

On the other hand, Pia has two subscription options: monthly plan at $11.95 per month and yearly plan at $39.95 ($3.33 per month). However, Pia does not offer a money-back guarantee.

Winner: Surfshark wins this round for providing better value for money with its longer-term plans and money-back guarantee offer.

Performance Comparison: Surfshark vs Pia

The final factor that sets apart two VPN providers is their performance in terms of speed and reliability. Let’s see how Surfshark and Pia perform in real-world tests.

During our speed tests, we found that Surfshark provided consistently fast speeds, with a minimal decrease in download and upload speeds compared to our regular internet connection. On the other hand, Pia’s speeds were a bit slower but still performed well, with only a slight decrease in download and upload speeds.

In terms of reliability, both providers offer stable connections, with no major disruptions or drops during our testing period. For those interested in securing their internet connection and protecting their privacy, the pricing plans for VyprVPN offer affordable options with top-notch security features.

Winner: In terms of performance, it’s a tie between Surfshark and Pia as both provide stable connections and decent speeds.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

After an in-depth comparison of features, pricing plans, and performance between Surfshark and Pia, it’s clear that both are top contenders in the VPN market. However, if we had to pick a winner based on overall performance, it would have to be Surfshark. It offers more advanced security features, better streaming and torrenting capabilities, and excellent value for money with its longer-term plans. But ultimately, the choice between Surfshark vs Pia comes down to personal preferences and needs. We recommend trying out both services through their free trials or money-back guarantees before making a final decision.

What are the Main Differences Between Surfshark and PIA in Terms of Pricing and Features?

Surfshark and PIA both offer competitive pricing, with Surfshark being slightly cheaper overall. However, PIA offers more advanced features such as split tunneling and ad-blocking, while Surfshark focuses on user-friendly features like an intuitive interface and unlimited device connections.

Which VPN Provider Offers Better Speed and Performance, Surfshark Or PIA?

Both Surfshark and PIA are reputable VPN providers, but in terms of speed and performance, Surfshark has the edge. It consistently outperforms PIA in various speed tests and offers a wider range of server locations for better connectivity. Surfshark’s proprietary NoBorders feature allows users to bypass censorship and access restricted content with ease. If speed and performance are your top priorities, Surfshark would be the recommended choice between these two options.

Is One of These VPNs More Suitable for Streaming Or Torrenting Compared to the Other?

Both Surfshark and PIA (Private Internet Access) offer features that make them suitable for streaming and torrenting. However, Surfshark has a slightly faster connection speed and a larger server network, which may make it more suitable for streaming content from different regions. On the other hand, PIA has strong security measures and a strict no-logs policy, making it a better choice for torrenting activities. The best VPN for streaming or torrenting will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Are There Any Notable Security Features That Set Surfshark Apart From PIA?

Yes, there are several notable security features that set Surfshark apart from PIA. One of the main differences is that Surfshark offers a built-in ad blocker and malware protection, while PIA does not. Surfshark uses its own private DNS on all servers, providing an extra layer of security. Surfshark also offers a MultiHop feature which routes your internet traffic through multiple servers for added anonymity. Both VPNs have strong security measures, but Surfshark may offer slightly more advanced features in this aspect.