Private Internet Access vs Surfshark: Complete VPN Comparison
Choosing between Private Internet Access vs Surfshark can be challenging when both VPN services offer competitive features and pricing. This comprehensive comparison analyzes every aspect of these popular VPN providers, from speed performance and security protocols to pricing structures and unique features. Whether you prioritize streaming capabilities, torrenting support, or maximum privacy protection, our detailed analysis will help you determine which service better suits your specific needs. We'll examine real-world performance data, feature comparisons, and user experiences to provide you with the insights needed to make an informed decision between Surfshark vs Private Internet Access.
Overview & Key Differences
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) has established itself as a privacy-focused VPN provider with over 35,000 servers across 91 countries. Known for its transparent no-logs policy, open-source applications, and advanced customization options, PIA appeals to users who prioritize privacy and technical control. The service offers robust port forwarding capabilities, MACE ad-blocking, and unlimited simultaneous connections at competitive pricing.
Surfshark
Surfshark positions itself as a feature-rich VPN solution with over 3,200 servers in 100 countries. The service stands out with unlimited device connections, advanced features like CleanWeb ad-blocking, MultiHop connections, and GPS spoofing. Surfshark excels in streaming capabilities and user-friendly interfaces, making it an attractive option for both beginners and advanced users seeking comprehensive online protection.
Quick Comparison Overview
Pricing Comparison
When comparing Private Internet Access vs Surfshark pricing, both services offer competitive rates with significant savings on longer-term plans. Here's a detailed breakdown of current pricing structures and value propositions for each service.
| Plan Duration | Private Internet Access | Surfshark | Best Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2+ Years |
$2.19/month 2 years + 2 months free |
$2.49/month 2 years + 3 months free |
PIA |
| 1 Year |
$7.50/month 6 months plan |
$3.39/month 1 year + 3 months free |
Surfshark |
| Monthly |
$11.99/month No commitment |
$17.95/month No commitment |
PIA |
Pricing Comparison Chart
PIA Additional Services
- Antivirus: $1.45/month - Basic malware protection
- Dedicated IP: $2.50/month - Personal static IP address
- Total Value: Complete package under $6/month
Surfshark Additional Services
- Surfshark One: Includes antivirus, search, and data breach alerts
- Alternative ID: Identity protection features
- Incogni: Personal data removal service
Speed & Performance Analysis
Speed performance is crucial when choosing between Private Internet Access vs Surfshark. Both services utilize modern protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, but real-world testing reveals interesting differences in download speeds, upload performance, and latency across various server locations.
Speed Test Results (Average Mbps)
Private Internet Access Performance
PIA demonstrates consistent performance across its network, with particularly strong upload speeds. The service excels in maintaining stable connections and offers excellent performance for torrenting activities due to its port forwarding capabilities.
- Download Speed: 124-500 Mbps (varies by location)
- Upload Speed: Superior performance, 39% faster than competitors
- Latency: Low ping times, excellent for gaming
- Consistency: Stable performance across all servers
Surfshark Performance
Surfshark consistently delivers higher download speeds, particularly impressive with WireGuard protocol. The service shows exceptional performance for streaming and general browsing, with some of the fastest recorded speeds in independent testing.
- Download Speed: 262-637 Mbps (consistently high)
- Upload Speed: Good performance, though slower than PIA
- Latency: Competitive ping times
- Consistency: Excellent performance, especially for streaming
| Protocol | PIA Speed | Surfshark Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| WireGuard | 500 Mbps | 637 Mbps | General use, streaming |
| OpenVPN | 124 Mbps | 262 Mbps | Security-focused tasks |
| Upload (All) | Superior | Good | Torrenting, file sharing |
Security & Privacy Comparison
Both Private Internet Access and Surfshark implement robust security measures, but their approaches to privacy and transparency differ significantly. Understanding these differences is crucial when evaluating Surfshark vs Private Internet Access for your specific security needs.
| Security Feature | Private Internet Access | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20 | AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20 |
| Protocols | WireGuard, OpenVPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 |
| Kill Switch | ✅ Advanced customization | ✅ Auto-enabled |
| DNS Leak Protection | ✅ Built-in | ✅ Built-in |
| No-Logs Policy | ✅ Independently audited | ✅ Independently audited |
| Open Source | ✅ All applications | ❌ Proprietary |
| RAM-Only Servers | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Private Internet Access Privacy
Based in the United States, PIA operates under US jurisdiction but has proven its commitment to privacy through multiple legal challenges where no user data was surrendered due to their true no-logs policy.
- Jurisdiction: United States (Five Eyes member)
- Court Tested: No logs policy proven in court
- Transparency: Fully open-source applications
- Data Collection: Minimal account information only
Surfshark Privacy
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Surfshark benefits from relatively privacy-friendly European laws. The service maintains a strict no-logs policy but does temporarily store IP addresses for operational purposes.
- Jurisdiction: Netherlands (EU privacy laws)
- Audits: Independent security audits completed
- Transparency: Detailed privacy policy
- Data Handling: Temporary IP address logging
Security Features Comparison
Features Comparison
When comparing Private Internet Access vs Surfshark features, both services offer comprehensive functionality beyond basic VPN protection. However, each service has developed unique features that cater to different user preferences and use cases.
Private Internet Access Features
- MACE Ad Blocker: DNS-level blocking of ads, trackers, and malware
- Port Forwarding: Essential for torrenting and P2P applications
- Split Tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN connection
- Multi-Port Forwarding: Forward multiple ports simultaneously
- Unlimited Connections: Connect all your devices
- Advanced Settings: Extensive customization options
- WireGuard Optimization: Custom implementation for better performance
Surfshark Features
- CleanWeb: Advanced ad, tracker, and cookie blocker
- MultiHop: Double VPN encryption through multiple servers
- Bypasser: Split tunneling for apps and websites
- GPS Spoofing: Change device location for Android apps
- Camouflage Mode: Hide VPN usage from ISPs
- Unlimited Devices: No connection limits
- NoBorders: Bypass internet restrictions in restrictive countries
Feature Availability Matrix
Torrenting & P2P
PIA: Excellent with port forwarding, optimized P2P servers
Surfshark: Good performance, P2P-optimized servers available
Surfshark: Good performance, P2P-optimized servers available
Gaming Support
PIA: Low latency, port forwarding for hosting
Surfshark: Decent latency, NoBorders for restricted regions
Surfshark: Decent latency, NoBorders for restricted regions
Business Use
PIA: Dedicated IP available, advanced security settings
Surfshark: Team management features, enterprise solutions
Surfshark: Team management features, enterprise solutions
Streaming & Unblocking Capabilities
Streaming performance is often a deciding factor when choosing between Surfshark vs Private Internet Access. Both services actively work to unblock major streaming platforms, but their success rates and reliability vary across different services and regions.
| Streaming Service | Private Internet Access | Surfshark | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netflix (US) | ✅ Reliable (may need server switching) | ✅ Excellent | Surfshark |
| Netflix (International) | ✅ Good (15+ regions) | ✅ Excellent (20+ regions) | Surfshark |
| Amazon Prime Video | ✅ Works well | ✅ Excellent | Tie |
| BBC iPlayer | ✅ Reliable | ✅ Excellent | Tie |
| Hulu | ✅ Good | ✅ Excellent | Surfshark |
| Disney+ | ✅ Reliable | ✅ Excellent | Surfshark |
| HBO Max | ✅ Good | ✅ Excellent | Surfshark |
PIA Streaming Performance
Private Internet Access provides solid streaming capabilities with good success rates across major platforms. While it may require occasional server switching, the service consistently delivers HD and 4K streaming quality.
- Success Rate: 80-85% across major platforms
- Quality: Supports up to 4K streaming
- Reliability: May need server switching
- Buffer Times: Minimal with optimized servers
Surfshark Streaming Performance
Surfshark excels in streaming capabilities with consistently high success rates and minimal need for server switching. The service prioritizes streaming optimization across its network.
- Success Rate: 90-95% across major platforms
- Quality: Excellent 4K streaming support
- Reliability: Consistent access without switching
- Buffer Times: Minimal buffering issues
Best Choice for Streaming
While both services handle streaming well, Surfshark takes the lead with superior unblocking capabilities and more consistent access to international content libraries.
Get Surfshark for Streaming
Server Networks & Global Coverage
The server network comparison between Private Internet Access vs Surfshark reveals different approaches to global coverage. PIA focuses on extensive server deployment, while Surfshark emphasizes strategic placement for optimal performance and accessibility.
35,000+
PIA Servers
3,200+
Surfshark Servers
91
PIA Countries
100
Surfshark Countries
Server Distribution by Region
Private Internet Access Network
PIA operates one of the largest VPN networks globally with over 35,000 servers. The service has expanded to cover all 50 US states and maintains a strong presence in privacy-friendly jurisdictions.
- United States: All 50 states covered
- Europe: 25+ countries with multiple cities
- Asia-Pacific: Growing presence in 15+ countries
- Specialty: High server density for load distribution
Surfshark Network
Surfshark maintains a strategically placed network of 3,200+ servers across 100 countries. The focus is on quality over quantity, with optimized server placement for maximum performance and accessibility.
- Global Reach: 100 countries with strategic placement
- 10Gbps Servers: High-speed infrastructure
- RAM-Only: Enhanced security with diskless servers
- Specialty: Optimized for streaming and accessibility
| Feature | Private Internet Access | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Server Types | Physical + Virtual, RAM-only | Physical + Virtual, RAM-only |
| Speed Capacity | 1Gbps - 10Gbps | 10Gbps standard |
| P2P Support | ✅ All servers with port forwarding | ✅ Optimized P2P servers |
| Streaming Optimization | Good | Excellent |
| Load Balancing | ✅ Automatic with high server count | ✅ Smart routing |
User Experience & Applications
The user experience comparison between Surfshark vs Private Internet Access shows distinct design philosophies. While both services offer comprehensive apps across all major platforms, their approaches to user interface design and feature accessibility differ significantly.
PIA Platform Support
- Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux (GUI + CLI)
- Mobile: iOS, Android (full features)
- Browser: Chrome, Firefox, Opera extensions
- Router: DD-WRT, OpenWrt, Tomato firmware
- Smart TV: Android TV, Amazon Fire TV
- Gaming: Manual setup for consoles
Surfshark Platform Support
- Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Mobile: iOS, Android (with GPS spoofing)
- Browser: Chrome, Firefox, Edge extensions
- Router: Pre-configured router options
- Smart TV: Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV
- Gaming: PlayStation, Xbox setup guides
User Interface Design Philosophy
Private Internet Access
PIA focuses on functionality and customization, offering extensive settings and configuration options. The interface caters to both beginners and advanced users, with detailed controls for power users who want granular control over their VPN connection.
Surfshark
Surfshark prioritizes simplicity and ease of use with a clean, modern interface. The design emphasizes one-click connections and guided setup processes, making it particularly appealing to VPN newcomers while still providing access to advanced features.
Ease of Use Comparison
Initial Setup
PIA: Straightforward installation with optional advanced configuration
Surfshark: Guided setup process with automatic optimal settings
Surfshark: Guided setup process with automatic optimal settings
Daily Usage
PIA: Quick connect with extensive customization options available
Surfshark: One-click connection with smart location selection
Surfshark: One-click connection with smart location selection
Advanced Features
PIA: Detailed settings menus with extensive documentation
Surfshark: Feature toggles with helpful explanations
Surfshark: Feature toggles with helpful explanations
Customer Support Comparison
Quality customer support can make a significant difference in your VPN experience. Both Private Internet Access and Surfshark offer multiple support channels, but their response times, expertise levels, and available resources vary considerably.
| Support Channel | Private Internet Access | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat | ✅ 24/7 availability | ✅ 24/7 availability |
| Email Support | ✅ 24-48 hour response | ✅ 24-48 hour response |
| Knowledge Base | ✅ Comprehensive guides | ✅ Extensive documentation |
| Setup Tutorials | ✅ Detailed technical guides | ✅ Step-by-step visual guides |
| Community Forum | ✅ Active Reddit community | ✅ Official community forum |
| Phone Support | ❌ Not available | ❌ Not available |
PIA Support Experience
Private Internet Access provides reliable technical support with knowledgeable agents who can handle complex configuration issues. The support team is particularly strong with advanced technical questions and troubleshooting.
- Response Time: Live chat within 2-5 minutes
- Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of networking
- Language Support: English primarily
- Specialty: Advanced configuration assistance
Surfshark Support Experience
Surfshark excels in customer support with faster response times and more comprehensive assistance. The support team is particularly helpful for beginners and provides excellent guidance for streaming and general usage questions.
- Response Time: Live chat within 1-3 minutes
- Technical Expertise: Well-rounded support team
- Language Support: Multiple languages available
- Specialty: User-friendly assistance and streaming help
Support Quality Ratings
Final Verdict: Private Internet Access vs Surfshark
After comprehensive testing and analysis, both Private Internet Access and Surfshark emerge as excellent VPN choices, but they excel in different areas. The decision between Surfshark vs Private Internet Access ultimately depends on your specific needs, technical expertise, and priorities.
Category Winners
Best Value (Long-term)
Private Internet Access
Best for Streaming
Surfshark
Best for Torrenting
Private Internet Access
Best for Beginners
Surfshark
Best for Privacy
Private Internet Access
Best Speed Performance
Surfshark
Choose Private Internet Access If:
- You prioritize maximum privacy and open-source transparency
- Port forwarding is essential for your torrenting needs
- You want the lowest long-term pricing available
- Advanced customization and technical control matter to you
- You prefer a proven track record in privacy protection
- Upload speeds are important for your activities
Choose Surfshark If:
- Streaming is your primary VPN use case
- You want the fastest download speeds available
- User-friendly interface and ease of use are priorities
- Advanced features like GPS spoofing appeal to you
- Superior customer support is important
- You need consistent access to geo-blocked content
Overall Scores
8.7/10
Private Internet Access
Excellent for privacy-focused users and power users who need advanced features and customization.
9.1/10
Surfshark
Outstanding all-around VPN with superior streaming capabilities and user experience.
Related: ExpressVPN Review
Related: ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Netflix: Private Internet Access or Surfshark?
Surfshark is generally better for Netflix and streaming services. It consistently unblocks Netflix libraries from 20+ countries with minimal need for server switching. While PIA also works with Netflix, you may need to try multiple servers to find one that works, and it accesses fewer international libraries.
Is Private Internet Access or Surfshark faster?
Surfshark typically delivers faster download speeds, with tests showing 637 Mbps on WireGuard compared to PIA's 500 Mbps. However, PIA excels in upload speeds, performing 39% better than competitors. For general browsing and streaming, Surfshark is faster, but for torrenting and file sharing, PIA's superior upload speeds are advantageous.
Which VPN is more secure: PIA or Surfshark?
Both services offer excellent security, but PIA has a slight edge due to its fully open-source applications and court-proven no-logs policy. PIA's transparency and US-based court challenges where no data was surrendered demonstrate its commitment to privacy. Surfshark also maintains strong security with independent audits and RAM-only servers, but uses proprietary software.
Can I use both VPNs for torrenting?
Yes, both support torrenting, but Private Internet Access is superior for P2P activities. PIA offers port forwarding on all servers, which improves connection speeds and accessibility for torrenting. PIA also has better upload speeds, which is crucial for maintaining good ratios on private trackers. Surfshark allows torrenting but doesn't offer port forwarding.
Which service offers better value for money?
For long-term plans, Private Internet Access offers better value at $2.19/month for 2+ years compared to Surfshark's $2.49/month. However, Surfshark provides better value on shorter-term plans and includes more premium features like GPS spoofing and advanced streaming optimization. Consider your specific needs when evaluating value.
Do both VPNs work in China and restrictive countries?
Surfshark has better capabilities for bypassing internet restrictions with its NoBorders feature and Camouflage mode, which helps hide VPN usage from ISPs and governments. While PIA can work in some restrictive countries, Surfshark's specialized obfuscation features make it more reliable for users in countries with heavy internet censorship.
How many devices can I connect simultaneously?
Both Private Internet Access and Surfshark offer unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can protect all your devices with a single subscription. This includes computers, smartphones, tablets, routers, and smart TV devices without any restrictions on the number of concurrent connections.
Which VPN is better for beginners?
Surfshark is more beginner-friendly with its intuitive interface, guided setup process, and automatic optimal settings. The app design focuses on simplicity with clear labeling and helpful tooltips. PIA, while user-friendly, offers more advanced options that might overwhelm new VPN users, though it provides extensive documentation for those who want to learn.
Make your choice today and secure your online privacy with either Private Internet Access or Surfshark. Both services offer money-back guarantees, so you can try them risk-free.