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The Best VPN Apps for Your Smartphone: Surfshark vs. Norton vs. NordVPN

48 min read In today's digital age, our smartphones are virtual extensions of ourselves, holding a wealth of personal information and connecting us to the world. While this connectivity offers immense convenience, it also brings about increasing concerns regarding online privacy and security. Especially when using public Wi-Fi hotspots in cafes, airports, or hotels, our data becomes vulnerable to prying eyes. Choosing the right VPN app for your smartphone is a crucial step in safeguarding your digital life. Let's delve into a friendly comparison of three popular contenders in the market: Surfshark VPN, Norton VPN, and NordVPN. May 15, 2025 11:16

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The Best VPN Apps for Your Smartphone: Surfshark vs. Norton vs. NordVPN

Meet the Contenders: Introducing Surfshark, Norton, and NordVPN

Navigating the landscape of VPN apps can be overwhelming, but Surfshark, Norton, and NordVPN consistently emerge as reputable choices for smartphone users. Surfshark has garnered attention for its impressive value proposition, particularly its unlimited simultaneous connections. Norton, a well-established name in cybersecurity, integrates its VPN offering with its comprehensive security suite. NordVPN, on the other hand, boasts a reputation for its speed, extensive feature set, and a vast global server network. Each of these VPNs brings its unique strengths to the table, catering to different user priorities and needs. This is a review of one of the best VPN apps for iPhone and best best VPN apps for Android.

Surfshark VPN App: A Deep Dive

Surfshark stands out with a compelling array of features designed to enhance user online security and convenience on smartphones. One of its most notable advantages is the provision of unlimited simultaneous connections.This means a single Surfshark subscription can protect every device you own, from your primary smartphone and tablet to your computer and smart TV, without the hassle of managing multiple accounts. This feature makes Surfshark a particularly cost-effective solution for families or individuals with numerous gadgets.

For a cleaner and safer browsing experience on mobile, Surfshark offers CleanWeb.This built-in feature acts as an ad and tracker blocker, eliminating intrusive pop-ups and preventing websites from monitoring your online activity. By reducing distractions and blocking potentially malicious advertisements, CleanWeb contributes to a smoother and more private mobile browsing session.

For users seeking an extra layer of security and anonymity, Surfshark provides MultiHop, also known as Dynamic MultiHop.This double VPN feature routes your internet traffic through two different servers in separate locations, making it significantly more challenging for anyone to trace your original IP address and online activities. While this added layer of encryption might slightly impact connection speed, it offers enhanced protection for those who prioritize maximum anonymity.

Recognizing the need for flexibility, Surfshark includes Bypasser, its split tunneling feature.This allows you to exclude specific apps or websites from the VPN tunnel, which can be useful for accessing local services or apps that might not function correctly when connected to a VPN. For instance, you might want your banking app or a local food delivery service to bypass the VPN while keeping the rest of your online traffic secure.

An essential security component of Surfshark is its Kill Switch.This feature automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops, preventing your real IP address and sensitive data from being exposed. For Android users, Surfshark offers an additional privacy feature called GPS Override.This allows you to spoof your device's GPS location, providing an extra layer of privacy by preventing apps from tracking your actual whereabouts. Surfshark also supports various VPN protocols, including the fast and modern WireGuard, the reliable OpenVPN, and the widely compatible IKEv2.

In terms of performance, Surfshark generally delivers fast speeds and has often ranked high in independent speed tests.Its performance has remained consistent over the years.While some tests have indicated a potential speed loss (around 21%), the impact on everyday browsing, streaming, and downloading is usually minimal.Surfshark boasts a substantial server network comprising over 3200 servers spread across 100 countries.All of Surfshark's servers are RAM-only , meaning any data is wiped upon reboot, enhancing user privacy. Furthermore, a significant portion of its infrastructure includes high-speed 10Gbps servers, available in 93% of the countries it covers.This extensive server network and modern infrastructure contribute to reliable connections and the ability to find less congested servers, ensuring a smoother online experience.

Surfshark's mobile apps are well-designed, easy to use, and feature an intuitive interface that is simple to master. The app offers a convenient quick-connect option that connects you to the fastest available server with a single tap. You can also customize this quick-connect feature to automatically connect to your preferred server location and save frequently used server locations for easy access.

Surfshark's pricing structure includes a monthly plan starting at $15.45.However, users can benefit from significantly lower prices by opting for longer-term commitments, with 1-year and 2-year plans offering substantial discounts.Compared to competitors like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, Surfshark's long-term plans are particularly competitively priced.Surfshark provides different subscription tiers, including Starter, One, and One+, each with varying features and corresponding prices.For new users, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial on Android, iOS, and macOS , allowing you to try the service risk-free.

Norton VPN App: A Closer Look

Norton VPN security offers a straightforward approach to online security, particularly for users already familiar with Norton's suite of cybersecurity products.A key advantage for these users is the seamless integration of Norton VPN within the Norton 360 security suite, providing a unified solution for device protection and online privacy.

Norton VPN includes features like Ad Tracker Blocking , which helps to block advertisers from tracking your online activities. Split Tunneling is available on Windows and Android devices , allowing you to choose which apps or websites route their traffic through the VPN. However, this feature is not available on iOS.The app also offers a Kill Switch on Windows, Android, and Mac , with a built-in Kill Switch on iOS , ensuring your privacy is protected even if the VPN connection drops. For added security on mobile, Norton VPN provides Wi-Fi Security , which scans wireless networks for potential threats on Android and iOS platforms. Norton VPN supports a range of protocols, including OpenVPN, IPSec/IKEv2, WireGuard, and its proprietary Mimic protocol.

Performance-wise, Norton VPN offers decent speeds suitable for everyday browsing and streaming.However, independent tests have shown inconsistent speed performance, with some instances of significant speed loss.The server network is smaller compared to its competitors, with servers located in around 30 countries.Additionally, Norton VPN does not offer manual server selection within specific countries.This limited server network and inconsistent speeds might result in less reliable connections and potential difficulties in accessing geo-restricted content compared to Surfshark and NordVPN.

Norton VPN's user interface is generally considered clean, easy to use, and intuitive across different platforms.The apps are designed to be simple and straightforward, making them accessible for beginners.Changing your virtual location is a simple process , and a widget is available for quick connection on both Android and iOS devices.

Norton VPN offers various subscription plans, including Standard, Plus, and Ultimate, each with different features and the number of devices covered.While its monthly plans can be pricier than average, the annual plans are more competitive.Norton VPN is often bundled with other Norton security products, offering a comprehensive security solution.It provides a generous 60-day money-back guarantee , although its free trial is limited to Android devices.

NordVPN App: Exploring Its Strengths

NordVPN has established itself as a leading VPN provider, known for its extensive features and robust performance on smartphones. A significant advantage is its proprietary NordLynx protocol , built on the foundation of WireGuard. NordLynx is renowned for delivering exceptionally fast connection speeds while maintaining strong security, making NordVPN a top choice for users who require high bandwidth for activities like streaming, gaming, and downloading.

NordVPN offers a comprehensive suite of security features, including Threat Protection (and the more advanced Threat Protection Pro).This feature blocks malware, web trackers, intrusive advertisements, and access to malicious websites, enhancing your online safety. For increased privacy, NordVPN provides Double VPN , which routes your connection through two separate VPN servers, encrypting your data twice. It also offers Onion Over VPN , combining the anonymity of the Tor network with the added security of a VPN connection.

A unique feature of NordVPN is Meshnet , which allows you to link up to 60 devices together, creating your own private encrypted network for secure file sharing, collaboration, and even LAN gaming. NordVPN also offers Split Tunneling on Windows and Android devices , enabling you to exclude specific apps from the VPN connection. This feature is not available on iOS.For users in regions with strict internet censorship, NordVPN provides Obfuscated Servers , which hide the fact that you are using a VPN, allowing you to bypass these restrictions. The Dark Web Monitor feature alerts you if your login credentials are found on the dark web, allowing you to take immediate action to secure your accounts. Like its competitors, NordVPN includes a Kill Switch to prevent IP leaks. NordVPN supports a wide range of VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard (NordLynx), IKEv2/IPsec, and NordWhisper, a protocol specifically designed to overcome restrictive network environments.

NordVPN consistently demonstrates extremely fast speeds in tests, often ranking at the top.It boasts a vast international server network with over 7400 servers located in 118 countries.Users can expect consistent performance and minimal speed loss across its extensive network.NordVPN also offers specialized servers optimized for P2P file sharing and torrenting , as well as its SmartPlay feature designed for seamless and secure streaming of geo-restricted content.

The mobile apps for NordVPN are known for their intuitive and user-friendly design.The interface is clean and simple, making navigation easy.The Quick Connect button provides a one-tap solution for connecting to the fastest available server.Users have the option to choose specific servers and even cities within countries.While the desktop app features a map-based server selection , the mobile app utilizes a convenient list format.

NordVPN's pricing includes a monthly plan starting at $12.99.Similar to its competitors, NordVPN offers substantial discounts for longer-term subscriptions, with 1-year and 2-year plans providing significant savings.NordVPN offers different subscription tiers, including Basic, Plus, Complete, and Prime, each with a varying set of features and corresponding prices.While its introductory pricing is competitive, it's worth noting that renewal prices can increase.NordVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee , allowing users to try the service without risk.

Head-to-Head Comparison:

Speed and Performance: Which VPN is Fastest?

When it comes to speed, NordVPN consistently ranks as one of the fastest VPNs available, largely due to its NordLynx protocol.Surfshark also demonstrates generally fast and consistent performance.In contrast, Norton VPN has shown inconsistent speeds in tests, with the potential for significant slowdowns depending on the server and protocol used.

Security and Privacy: Keeping Your Data Safe

All three VPNs utilize strong AES-256 encryption to protect your data.Surfshark and NordVPN offer advanced security features like Double VPN for an extra layer of encryption , with NordVPN also providing Onion Over VPN for enhanced anonymity.Norton VPN's strength lies in its integration with the broader Norton security suite.All three VPNs claim to adhere to a no-logs policy, with Surfshark , Norton , and NordVPN undergoing independent audits to verify these claims. Regarding jurisdiction, Surfshark is based in the Netherlands , Norton in the USA , and NordVPN in Panama , which may be a consideration for users with specific privacy concerns.

Key Features: What Each VPN Offers

Feature	Surfshark	Norton VPN	NordVPN
Unlimited Devices	Yes	No	No
Split Tunneling (Mobile)	Yes	Android	Android
Ad Blocker	Yes	Yes	Yes
Double VPN	Yes	No	Yes
Onion Over VPN	No	No	Yes
Dedicated IP Option	Yes	No	Yes
Malware Protection	Yes (One+)	Yes (Plus+)	Yes (Threat Protection)
GPS Override (Android)	Yes	No	No
Norton 360 Integration	No	Yes	No
NordLynx Protocol	No	No	Yes
Meshnet	No	No	Yes
NordWhisper Protocol	No	No	Yes

User Interface: Ease of Use on Your Phone

All three VPN apps offer user-friendly interfaces. Surfshark's app is well-designed and intuitive.Norton VPN provides a clean and simple interface, particularly appealing to beginners.NordVPN's app is also known for its intuitive design and ease of navigation.All three offer quick-connect options, and both Surfshark and NordVPN allow users to choose specific servers and cities.

Pricing and Value: Getting the Best Bang for Your Buck

Surfshark stands out for its competitive pricing, especially for its long-term plans, and the added benefit of unlimited simultaneous connections.Norton VPN offers various plans, often bundled with its security suite, providing value for users invested in the Norton ecosystem.NordVPN, while offering competitive introductory prices for its 1-year and 2-year plans, has been noted for price increases upon renewal.All three offer money-back guarantees, allowing users to try the services risk-free.

Which VPN is Right for You?

Best for Beginners: Norton VPN's simple and intuitive interface makes it a great choice for users new to VPNs.
Best for Speed: NordVPN, with its NordLynx protocol, consistently demonstrates top-tier speeds, ideal for streaming and gaming.
Best for Privacy: NordVPN, with its Panama jurisdiction, independently audited no-logs policy, and advanced security features like Onion Over VPN, offers robust privacy protection.
Best Value: Surfshark provides an excellent balance of features and performance at a competitive price, especially considering its unlimited simultaneous connections.
For Users Already in the Norton Ecosystem: Norton VPN offers seamless integration and added convenience.
For Families or Multiple Devices: Surfshark's unlimited simultaneous connections are a significant advantage.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Top VPN Apps

Choosing the right VPN app for your smartphone depends on your individual needs and priorities. Surfshark offers impressive value with unlimited connections and a strong feature set. Norton VPN provides a user-friendly experience and integrates well with its broader security offerings. NordVPN stands out for its exceptional speed and a wide array of advanced security and privacy features. By considering your primary use cases, whether it's enhanced security on public Wi-Fi, accessing streaming content, or simply maintaining online privacy, this comparison should help you make an informed decision and select the VPN app that best suits your smartphone.

References

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