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OpenVPN vs Surfshark: 165 Highlights & 72 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better

Both services offer support for major streaming platforms and devices. Let’s see which VPN delivers smoother streaming and broader compatibility. Choosing software can be messy. We made it easier by comparing OpenVPN vs Surfshark on all key intended use, target user, deployment type & logging policy type.

62 Points
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
83 Points
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
vs

Highlights 175

No extras. Just what matters.
62 Points
vs
83 Points

Why is OpenVPN better than Surfshark ?

Scroll down for more facts

OpenVPN vs. Surfshark: A Comprehensive VPN Comparison for Security and Privacy

OpenVPN and Surfshark stand out as two prominent VPN solutions, both designed to safeguard user data and provide secure internet access. While they share core features such as third-party security audits, kill switches, and unlimited bandwidth capacity, several fundamental differences mark their unique appeal. OpenVPN predominantly caters to the business sector, emphasizing audit transparency, hybrid deployment, and robust encryption methods like RSA, ECDHE, and Diffie-Hellman. 

Surfshark, conversely, targets individuals and families with a cloud-based deployment, wider device compatibility, and features optimized for streaming, gaming, and privacy, including a stealth mode and RAM-only servers. This comparison delves into their technical specs, performance nuances, and user-oriented features.

OpenVPN: The Enterprise Security Powerhouse

OpenVPN brings a strong appeal to enterprises seeking transparency and precise control over their VPN infrastructure. Its hybrid deployment type combines cloud and on-premises elements for a flexible security solution. The platform supports key encryption methods, including RSA, ECDHE, and Diffie-Hellman, bolstering defense against interception.

Performance-wise, OpenVPN boasts an impressive zero-latency impact and reliable network speed optimizations, although it does not advertise peak speeds. Businesses benefit from its well-rounded access management, including multi-user profiles and access control levels. Its logging policies are somewhat traditional, retaining connection and metadata logs, which may concern privacy-conscious organizations, despite the overall no-logs claim.

OpenVPN supports iOS as its primary operating system compatibility and offers CLI access, catering to technical environments. Customer support includes email, phone, and ticket channels, with a notable 14-day free trial that makes it easier for businesses to test before committing. Its pricing model is straightforward, as the app is available for $0 at $0 at Apple App Store.

Surfshark: Privacy and Streaming for the Modern User

Surfshark emerges as a versatile VPN targeted at personal users who want robust privacy alongside features crafted for entertainment. Its fully cloud-based deployment maximizes accessibility and scalability across platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and routers, plus it supports smart TVs, bridging gaps often left by other providers.

Security-wise, Surfshark excels with stealth mode and RAM-only servers that minimize the risk associated with data retention. Crucially, its no-log policy is independently credible, eschewing connection and metadata log keeping for tighter privacy. Surfshark integrates a per-app rules feature, allowing granular control over which applications use the VPN; a useful tool for nuanced users.

Surfshark's network infrastructure includes gaming-optimized servers and high-performance facilities in Tier III data centers. This supports up to 550 Mbps peak speeds with just a modest 15 ms latency impact, which is excellent for streaming 4K video and cloud gaming. It also covers major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, offering reliable streaming performance.

Beyond security, Surfshark's customer support shines with live chat availability and detailed API documentation for developers. Payment options are diverse, including credit cards, PayPal, cryptocurrency, and gift cards. While there is no free trial, a 7-day trial window provides enough time for evaluation. Pricing is budget-friendly, starting at just $1.7/month at Surfshark.

Quick Take

OpenVPN shines in enterprise settings with strong audit transparency, flexible business plans, and zero latency impact, making it reliable for corporate security demands. On the other hand, Surfshark is a top pick for personal users valuing broad device coverage, excellent streaming support, and robust privacy protections such as RAM-only servers and a credible no-logs policy.

Bottom Line Recommendation

For individuals and families focused on online privacy, streaming, and gaming, Surfshark is the standout choice thanks to its rich feature set and multi-platform support. OpenVPN remains a solid contender for businesses needing audit transparency and stringent encryption methodologies, though its privacy stance and streaming features lag comparatively.

Verdict

  • Winner: Surfshark; Offers comprehensive privacy, streaming, and multi-device support tailored for personal users, backed by credible no-log policies and cutting-edge privacy features.
  • Runner-up: OpenVPN; Delivers enterprise-grade security with audit transparency and zero latency impact, but limited streaming capability and more traditional logging reduce its appeal for consumer use.

Comparisons 30

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

Related comparisons 30

Because one duel is never enough.

Comparisons & Facts 175

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

No hype, just facts. This vpn comparison lays out what OpenVPN and Surfshark offer — from AI performance to pricing tiers and UX wins.

General Information 12

Deployment Type

What is the deployment type?

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Hybrid

87 Surfshark 1 Votes Cloud-Based

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Deployment Type

OpenVPN employs a Hybrid Deployment Type combining cloud and on-premise solutions; Surfshark uses Cloud-Based deployment. Hybrid deployment of OpenVPN offers flexibility, making it better for complex IT environments.

How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.

I actually prefer Surfshark's cloud-based deployment since it feels more modern and accessible across devices compared to OpenVPN's hybrid approach.

See more

Intended Use

What is this VPN mainly used for?

58 OpenVPN 0 Votes Security, Business

57 Surfshark 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, Gaming

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Intended Use

OpenVPN is designed mainly for Security and Business use, while Surfshark targets Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, and Gaming. Surfshark provides a wider variety of use cases, ideal for diverse user needs.

Describes the main use cases supported.

Target User

Who is this VPN designed for?

70 OpenVPN 0 Votes Business

62 Surfshark 0 Votes Individual, Family

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Target User

OpenVPN targets Business users, while Surfshark serves Individuals and Families. For those needing VPN solutions tailored to companies, OpenVPN is preferable; Surfshark suits personal and family privacy.

Identifies the primary audience.

Release Year

When was this VPN first released?

15 OpenVPN 0 Votes 2001

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 2018

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

OpenVPN has been in continuous development since 2001, making it one of the most mature and battle-tested VPN technologies in enterprise security environments.

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service was released in 2018, indicating experience and a matured product.

Year the VPN service was first released.

Supported Devices Count

How many devices are supported?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Ideal for businesses deploying VPN access across large teams, branch offices, or distributed cloud infrastructure without per-device licensing limits.

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN supports unlimited devices per account, accommodating users with many gadgets.

Maximum number of devices supported per account.

VPN Service Type

What type of VPN service is offered?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes Enterprise VPN

27 Surfshark 0 Votes Consumer VPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service type is consumer-focused, designed primarily for individual and household use.

Indicates the primary service classification.

Service Model

What service model does the VPN use?

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Subscription-Based

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Subscription-Based

Surfshark
Surfshark

The service operates on a subscription-based model, which means users pay periodically to maintain access and updates.

Business and access model used to provide the VPN service.

Simultaneous Connections

How many simultaneous connections are allowed?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Unlike consumer VPNs that limit connections (often 5–10 devices), this supports unlimited concurrent sessions—useful for remote workforces and site-to-site tunnels.

Number of devices that can connect at the same time.

Account Sharing Policy

Is account sharing allowed?

40 OpenVPN 0 Votes Restricted

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Account Sharing Policy

OpenVPN has a Restricted Account Sharing Policy, whereas Surfshark allows account sharing. Surfshark is more suitable for users who require shared access among multiple users or devices.

Defines rules around sharing accounts.

Service Availability

Where is the service available?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Global

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Global

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Designed for worldwide deployment, supporting distributed teams and international infrastructure.

Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.

Regulatory Compliance Statement

What regulations does it comply with?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes GDPR

82 Surfshark 0 Votes GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Regulatory Compliance Statement

Both OpenVPN and Surfshark comply with GDPR regulations, but Surfshark extends compliance to CCPA and UK GDPR. Surfshark offers broader regulatory coverage, making it better for users needing multiple jurisdiction compliance.

Stated compliance with data protection regulations.

Platform Category

Which platform categories are supported?

65 OpenVPN 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Router, Cloud

71 Surfshark 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

Indicates supported platform categories.

Security & Encryption 24

Kill Switch

Is a kill switch available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Kill Switch

Both OpenVPN and Surfshark have Kill Switch features to prevent data leaks when connections drop, ensuring user security at all times.

Blocks traffic if VPN connection drops.

Stealth Mode

Is stealth mode available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Stealth Mode

OpenVPN does not offer Stealth Mode, while Surfshark does. For users needing to bypass VPN blocks or censorship, Surfshark is more suitable with its stealth capabilities.

Hides VPN usage from detection systems.

Surfshark's stealth mode is a game changer for privacy, way better for hiding your online activity than OpenVPN which doesn’t offer it.

See more

Key Exchange Method

How are encryption keys exchanged?

67 OpenVPN 0 Votes RSA, ECDHE, Diffie-Hellman

77 Surfshark 0 Votes ECDHE, RSA

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Key Exchange Method

OpenVPN uses RSA, ECDHE, and Diffie-Hellman key exchange methods, whereas Surfshark uses ECDHE and RSA only. OpenVPN's inclusion of Diffie-Hellman offers an additional cryptographic option, making it more versatile.

Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.

Third-Party Audit Availability

Are third-party audits available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Third-Party Audit Availability

Both OpenVPN and Surfshark offer Third-Party Audit Availability, ensuring enhanced trust through external security evaluations. Both stand strong on transparency and security verification.

Availability of external audit reports.

Encryption Strength

What encryption strength is used?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes AES-256

87 Surfshark 0 Votes AES-256

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

AES-256 is considered military-grade encryption, using a 256-bit key for extremely strong brute-force resistance.

Surfshark
Surfshark

Encryption strength uses AES-256, a robust encryption cipher standard for secure VPN connections.

Level and type of encryption used to secure data.

Encryption Standard

What encryption standard is used?

65 OpenVPN 0 Votes AES, ChaCha20

72 Surfshark 0 Votes AES, ChaCha20

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

AES is widely adopted in enterprise and government systems, while ChaCha20 is optimized for high performance on mobile and low-power devices.

Specifies the primary encryption algorithms used.

Perfect Forward Secrecy

Is perfect forward secrecy supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Ensures past sessions remain secure even if long-term private keys are compromised—critical for enterprise compliance requirements.

Ensures past sessions remain secure if keys are compromised.

VPN Protocols Supported

Which VPN protocols are supported?

70 OpenVPN 0 Votes OpenVPN

79 Surfshark 0 Votes OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2

Surfshark
Surfshark

Supported VPN protocols include OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, covering a range of compatibility, security, and performance options.

Lists all supported VPN protocols.

Default Protocol

What protocol is used by default?

70 OpenVPN 0 Votes OpenVPN

97 Surfshark 0 Votes WireGuard

Surfshark
Surfshark

The default VPN protocol is WireGuard, favored for its speed and modern encryption.

Protocol used by default.

DNS Leak Protection

Is DNS leak protection included?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Prevents DNS queries from leaking outside the encrypted tunnel, which helps maintain privacy and internal network confidentiality.

Prevents DNS requests from leaking outside the tunnel.

IPv6 Leak Protection

Is IPv6 leak protection supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Protects against traffic leaks on IPv6 networks, which are increasingly common in modern infrastructure.

Prevents IPv6 traffic leaks.

Firewall Integration

Does it integrate with a firewall?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Firewall integration enables the VPN to work seamlessly with existing firewall setups for enhanced protection.

Integrates firewall rules for traffic control.

Privacy & Logging Policy 18

RAM-Only Servers

Are RAM-only servers used?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
RAM-Only Servers

OpenVPN does not use RAM-Only Servers, but Surfshark does. Surfshark's RAM-Only Servers enhance security by ensuring data isn't stored permanently, making it preferable for privacy-conscious users.

Indicates use of volatile memory servers.

Surfshark having RAM-only servers is a big plus for privacy, it basically means less risk of data being stored permanently, unlike OpenVPN.

See more

Logging Policy Type

What is the logging policy type?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes No-Logs

97 Surfshark 0 Votes No-Logs

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Logging Policy Type

Both OpenVPN and Surfshark declare a No-Logs Logging Policy Type, supporting strong user privacy by not retaining activity logs.

Describes the overall logging stance.

Connection Logs

Are connection logs stored?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Connection Logs

OpenVPN logs Connection Logs, whereas Surfshark does not. Surfshark is preferable if avoiding any connection record keeping is critical.

Indicates logging of connection metadata.

Metadata Logs

Are metadata logs collected?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Metadata Logs

OpenVPN records Metadata Logs but Surfshark does not. Surfshark is more privacy-conscious by avoiding metadata storage, beneficial for users concerned about data collection.

Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.

Privacy Certification

Does it have privacy certifications?

50 OpenVPN 0 Votes ISO 27001

47 Surfshark 0 Votes ISO 27001, TRUSTe

Surfshark
Surfshark

Privacy certifications include ISO 27001 and TRUSTe, indicating adherence to internationally recognized privacy and security standards.

Privacy or security certifications held by the provider.

Activity Logs

Are activity logs stored?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether user activity is logged.

IP Address Logging

Are IP addresses logged?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.

Timestamp Logging

Are timestamps logged?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates logging of session timestamps.

Bandwidth Usage Logging

Is bandwidth usage logged?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.

Jurisdiction Country

Which country is the jurisdiction?

0 OpenVPN 0 Votes None

82 Surfshark 0 Votes Netherlands

Country where the VPN company is legally registered.

Data Retention Period

How long is data retained?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes No Logs

97 Surfshark 0 Votes No Logs

Length of time user data is retained.

Warrant Canary

Is a warrant canary published?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates presence of a warrant canary.

Network & Server Infrastructure 20

Data Center Tier

What data center tier is used?

40 OpenVPN 0 Votes Tier III

47 Surfshark 0 Votes Tier III

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Data Center Tier

OpenVPN and Surfshark both operate Data Centers Tier III, ensuring high reliability, security, and availability standards.

Indicates data center reliability level.

Bandwidth Capacity

What is the bandwidth capacity?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unlimited

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Bandwidth Capacity

Both services provide Unlimited Bandwidth Capacity, removing usage caps and supporting heavy internet activities effortlessly.

Overall bandwidth capability of the network.

Gaming Optimized Servers

Are gaming servers available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Gaming Optimized Servers

OpenVPN lacks Gaming Optimized Servers, while Surfshark offers them. Gamers will prefer Surfshark for its dedicated server optimizations enhancing gaming performance.

Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.

If you’re into gaming OpenVPN can’t compete with Surfshark’s optimized servers which help reduce lag and improve experience a lot.

See more

Throttling Policy

Is bandwidth throttled?

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes No Throttling

17 Surfshark 0 Votes No Throttling

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Throttling Policy

Neither OpenVPN nor Surfshark apply Throttling Policies; both provide No Throttling, which supports consistent bandwidth at all times.

Describes bandwidth throttling rules.

Total Server Count

How many servers are available?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes 1000–3000

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 3000+

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Indicates a large-scale infrastructure footprint, suitable for global enterprise deployments and regional redundancy.

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total server count exceeds 3000, indicating a large network with many options for users worldwide.

Approximate total number of servers available.

Total Country Coverage

How many countries are covered?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes 90+

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 90+

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Coverage in 90+ countries supports localized access and lower latency connections for multinational organizations.

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total country coverage extends beyond 90 countries, providing worldwide server options and global access.

Number of countries with server presence.

Total City Coverage

How many cities are covered?

80 OpenVPN 0 Votes 200+

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 200+

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

City-level coverage improves routing efficiency and can reduce latency compared to country-level-only networks.

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total city coverage exceeds 200 cities, ensuring extensive geographic reach and more options for optimal performance.

Number of cities with VPN servers.

Unlimited Bandwidth

Is bandwidth unlimited?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Supports high-volume use cases like site-to-site tunnels, VoIP, and cloud workloads without throttling.

Indicates if data usage is unlimited.

Network Uptime SLA

Is there an uptime SLA?

57 OpenVPN 0 Votes 99.9%

64 Surfshark 0 Votes 99.9%

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

99.9% uptime translates to roughly 8.76 hours of potential downtime per year, aligning with many enterprise-grade SLAs.

Guaranteed network uptime level.

Server Location Type

Are server locations physical or virtual?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Mixed

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Mixed

Indicates how server locations are implemented.

Server Ownership

Who owns the servers?

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Hybrid

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Hybrid

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Server Ownership

Both OpenVPN and Surfshark have Hybrid Server Ownership models, combining multiple server ownership types for versatile infrastructure management.

Describes who controls the servers.

Load Balancing

Is load balancing supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Distributes traffic evenly across servers.

Performance & Speed 14

Latency Impact

How much latency does the VPN add?

0 ms 1 Votes
OpenVPN
15 ms 0 Votes
Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Latency Impact

OpenVPN reports 0ms Latency Impact, while Surfshark registers 15ms. OpenVPN offers better latency performance ideal for real-time applications like gaming or video calls.

Additional latency introduced by the VPN.

OpenVPN claims zero latency impact which is pretty impressive, but Surfshark’s 15 ms is still low and totally smooth for streaming or gaming.

See more

Peak Speed Performance

What is the peak speed performance?

0 Mbps 0 Votes
OpenVPN
550 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Peak Speed Performance

OpenVPN lists a Peak Speed Performance of 0 Mbps, likely indicating no set limit, while Surfshark peaks at 550 Mbps. Surfshark may offer better maximum speeds for heavy internet users.

Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.

Smart Routing

Is smart routing used?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Smart Routing

Smart Routing is supported by both OpenVPN and Surfshark, automatically choosing optimal paths for efficient data transfer.

Routes traffic through optimal paths.

Performance Analytics

Are performance analytics available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Performance Analytics

Performance Analytics are available on both OpenVPN and Surfshark, aiding users in monitoring and optimizing VPN performance.

Provides performance monitoring insights.

Average Download Speed

What is the average download speed?

0 Mbps 0 Votes
OpenVPN
480 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

No fixed speed—performance depends on server hardware, encryption settings, and network bandwidth. 0 Mbps indicates not publicly benchmarked rather than actual throughput.

Surfshark
Surfshark

Average download speed of 480 Mbps provides fast data transfer, supporting HD streaming and bulk downloads.

Typical downstream speed when connected to the VPN.

Average Upload Speed

What is the average upload speed?

0 Mbps 0 Votes
OpenVPN
420 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Upload speed varies by deployment and infrastructure; enterprise setups often depend on the organization’s ISP capacity.

Surfshark
Surfshark

The average upload speed is 420 Mbps, suitable for high-quality video calls and fast file uploads.

Typical upstream speed when using the VPN.

Speed Consistency

How consistent are the speeds?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes High

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

Surfshark
Surfshark

Speed consistency is rated high, indicating stable and reliable connection speeds over time.

Stability of speeds over time.

Speed Throttling

Is speed throttling applied?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.

Protocol Speed Optimization

Are protocols optimized for speed?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Optimizes protocol choice for speed.

Auto Server Selection Speed

Does it auto-select the fastest server?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Automatically selects fastest servers.

Speed Test Tool

Is there a built-in speed test?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Built-in tool for measuring VPN speed.

Regional Speed Optimization

Is regional speed optimization supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Regional Speed Optimization

Both OpenVPN and Surfshark support Regional Speed Optimization to enhance speed based on geographical location, boosting performance when accessing regional content.

Optimizes speeds by geographic region.

Platform & Device Support 13

OS Version Compatibility

Which OS versions are supported?

85 OpenVPN 0 Votes iOS

78 Surfshark 1 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
OS Version Compatibility

OpenVPN supports iOS only for OS Version Compatibility, whereas Surfshark supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Routers, making Surfshark more versatile across platforms.

Operating systems and platforms supported.

Surfshark supports way more operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, and routers which is perfect for everyday users versus OpenVPN's iOS focus.

See more

Smart TV

Are smart TVs supported?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Smart TV

OpenVPN does not support Smart TV platforms, but Surfshark does. Users wanting VPN on smarter TV devices will find Surfshark more accommodating.

Indicates support for smart TV platforms.

Browser Extension

Are browser extensions available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
Browser Extension

OpenVPN does not offer a Browser Extension, but Surfshark does. For users who prefer browser-based VPN controls, Surfshark is more suitable.

Indicates availability of browser extensions.

CLI Support

Is CLI support available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
CLI Support

CLI Support is available for both OpenVPN and Surfshark, providing command-line interface options for advanced users and automation.

Indicates command-line interface availability.

IoT Device Compatibility

Are IoT devices compatible?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
vs
Surfshark
IoT Device Compatibility

Both OpenVPN and Surfshark support IoT Device Compatibility, ensuring protection extends to connected smart devices.

Indicates compatibility with IoT devices.

Browser Types Supported

Which browsers are supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes OpenVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

85 Surfshark 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera

Surfshark
Surfshark

Browser types supported include Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera, enabling VPN use directly through popular browsers.

Lists supported browser types.

Gaming Console

Are gaming consoles supported?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.

Manual Configuration

Is manual configuration supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows manual VPN setup.

App Interface Consistency

Is the app interface consistent?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Consistent

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Consistent

Consistency of UI across platforms.

Cross-Platform Sync

Is cross-platform sync available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Syncs settings across devices.

Device Management Dashboard

Is there a device management dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Centralized device management interface.

ARM Architecture

Are ARM devices supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates support for ARM-based devices.

Features & Functionality 24

Per-App Rules

Can rules be set per app?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

Applies VPN rules per application.

I vibe more with Surfshark’s per-app rules because it lets me choose apps to protect without slowing down everything, OpenVPN lacks this feature.

See more

Parental Controls

Are parental controls available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Provides content restrictions for families.

Custom DNS

Can custom DNS be configured?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows use of custom DNS resolvers.

Automation Scripts

Are automation scripts supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows use of automation scripts.

LAN Access

Is LAN access allowed?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

LAN access when connected allows users to interact with devices on the local network behind the VPN.

Allows access to local network devices.

Custom Routing Rules

Can routing rules be customized?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Custom routing rules allow users to define specific paths for traffic, enhancing control and performance optimization.

Allows advanced routing customization.

Automation Support

Is automation supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Automation support allows users to integrate VPN usage with other automated workflows and scripts.

Supports automation via integrations or scripts.

API Access

Is API access available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

API access is available, facilitating integration with other software or automated management of the VPN service.

Provides programmatic API access.

Split Tunneling

Is split tunneling supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows selective routing of traffic outside the VPN.

App-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set per app?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows split tunneling by application.

URL-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set by URL?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows split tunneling by website or domain.

Auto-Connect Rules

Are auto-connect rules supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Automatically connects under defined conditions.

Streaming, Gaming & P2P Support 9

HD Streaming

Is HD streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates support for HD streaming quality.

4K Streaming

Is 4K streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.

Cloud Gaming

Does it support cloud gaming?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.

Streaming Platform Support

Which streaming platforms are supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes OpenVPN (Help us out by suggesting one!)

84 Surfshark 1 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

Surfshark
Surfshark

Streaming platforms supported include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, ensuring broad access to popular services securely through the VPN.

Streaming platforms that the VPN can reliably unblock and support.

Surfshark nails streaming with support for Netflix Hulu Disney and more which means way better access to shows than OpenVPN’s limited ability.

See more

P2P File Sharing

Is P2P file sharing allowed?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Allows peer-to-peer traffic, which can be useful for distributed file synchronization and development workflows.

Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.

Streaming Reliability

How reliable is streaming access?

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes Low

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

Consistency of streaming access over time.

Gaming Latency Optimization

Is gaming latency optimized?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.

Torrenting Policy

Is torrenting allowed?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Allowed

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

Defines torrenting rules.

Port Selection for P2P

Can ports be selected for P2P?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows port selection for P2P traffic.

Account, Access & Management 10

Two-Factor Authentication

Is two-factor authentication available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Adds an extra authentication layer beyond passwords, strengthening protection against credential-based attacks.

Adds an extra layer of account security.

Multi-User Profiles

Can multiple user profiles be created?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows multiple user profiles under one account.

Sub-Account

Are sub-accounts supported?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.

Access Control Levels

Are access control levels available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Supports different permission levels.

Session Management

Can active sessions be managed?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows viewing and managing active sessions.

Login History Visibility

Is login history visible?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Shows login and access history.

User Account Dashboard

Is there a user account dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Provides a central interface for managing the account.

Team or Family Plans

Are team or family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of shared plans.

Device Revocation

Can devices be revoked remotely?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows removal of connected devices remotely.

Password Policy

How strong is the password policy?

0 OpenVPN 0 Votes Unspecified

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong

Rules for password complexity and security.

Customer Support & Documentation 8

Support Channels

What support channels are available?

50 OpenVPN 0 Votes Email, Ticket, Phone

64 Surfshark 1 Votes Live Chat, Email, Ticket

Lists available customer support channels.

Customer support with live chat on Surfshark is super helpful when you have issues, OpenVPN’s email phone setup is good but slower to respond.

See more

Knowledge Base

Is there a knowledge base?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.

API Documentation

Is API documentation available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Provides documentation for API usage.

Community Forum

Is there a community forum?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates presence of a user community forum.

Setup Guides

Are setup guides available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Provides step-by-step setup instructions.

Video Tutorials

Are video tutorials available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.

Response Time SLA

What is the response time SLA?

60 OpenVPN 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

Expected support response time.

Support Language Coverage

What support languages are available?

10 OpenVPN 0 Votes English

52 Surfshark 0 Votes English, Multi-language

Languages supported by customer service.

Billing, Plans & Trials 12

Trial Duration

How long is the free trial?

14 days 1 Votes
OpenVPN
7 days 0 Votes
Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

14 days equals two full weeks—enough time for IT teams to test deployment, policy controls, and performance before committing.

Length of the free trial period.

I appreciate the longer 14-day trial with OpenVPN for business testing but Surfshark’s 7-day trial is still enough for personal users to try it out.

See more

Business Plan Availability

Are business plans available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Structured specifically for enterprise teams, often including centralized management, role-based access control, and compliance tooling.

Indicates availability of business plans.

Free Trial Availability

Is a free trial available?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether a free trial is offered.

Plan Flexibility

How flexible are the plans?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes High

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

Ease of changing plans.

Subscription Length Options

What subscription lengths are available?

53 OpenVPN 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly

64 Surfshark 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Flexible billing options allow short-term testing or discounted annual commitments for enterprises.

Available subscription durations.

Money-Back Guarantee

Is there a money-back guarantee?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.

Refund Period

What is the refund period?

0 OpenVPN 0 Votes No Refund

67 Surfshark 0 Votes 30 Days

Time window for requesting refunds.

Payment Methods Supported

What payment methods are supported?

40 OpenVPN 0 Votes Credit Card

60 Surfshark 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency, Gift Card

Supported payment methods.

Anonymous Payment

Are anonymous payments supported?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows anonymous payment methods.

Auto-Renewal

Is auto-renewal enabled?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether subscriptions auto-renew.

Plan Change Policy

What is the plan change policy?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

Policy governing whether users can upgrade or downgrade their subscription plans.

Family Plan Availability

Are family plans available?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of family plans.

Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11

Public Reputation

What is the public reputation?

50 OpenVPN 0 Votes Good

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Excellent

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Widely recognized in the cybersecurity industry and frequently adopted by enterprises, security professionals, and IT administrators.

Overall public perception.

Independent Security Audits

Are independent audits conducted?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Undergoes third-party security audits.

Audit Transparency

Are audit reports public?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Publishes full audit reports.

No-Log Claim Credibility

Is the no-logs claim credible?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Credibility of no-logs claims.

Service Uptime

What is the service uptime?

99.9 % 0 Votes
OpenVPN
99.9 % 0 Votes
Surfshark

OpenVPN
OpenVPN

Equivalent to approximately 43 minutes of potential downtime per month, depending on maintenance windows.

Average service availability over time.

Downtime Transparency

Are downtimes disclosed?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.

Company Transparency

Is company ownership transparent?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Discloses ownership and leadership.

Jurisdiction Clarity

Is jurisdiction clearly stated?

Yes 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Clearly states legal jurisdiction.

Transparency Reports

Are transparency reports published?

No 0 Votes OpenVPN

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Publishes government request reports.

Third-Party Review Presence

Does the VPN have third-party reviews?

90 OpenVPN 0 Votes Strong Presence

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong Presence

Indicates whether the VPN service is actively reviewed on independent third-party platforms.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Performance

How would you rate the overall performance of this VPN?

Very fast — Under 2 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Fast — 2 to 4 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average speed — 4 to 6 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Slow — 6 to 10 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very slow — Over 10 hours
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

Ease of Setup

How easy is it to set up this VPN?

Very easy — Takes under 5 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Easy — Takes 5 to 10 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Takes 10 to 15 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Hard — Takes 15 to 30 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very hard — Takes over 30 minutes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

User Interface

How would you describe the usability of this VPN's interface?

Very intuitive — Easy to navigate and use
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Easy to use — Clear and simple interface
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Some features may be difficult to navigate
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Hard to use — Complex layout, hard to understand
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very hard to use — Frustrating interface
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

Connection Stability

How stable is the connection when using this VPN?

Very stable — Rare disconnections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Stable — Occasional disconnections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average stability — Frequent minor disconnections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Unstable — Regular disconnections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very unstable — Almost always disconnects
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

Security Features

How would you rate the security features of this VPN?

Top-notch security — Includes features like 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and kill switch
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Great security — Includes strong encryption and basic protections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average security — Standard encryption, basic protections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Weak security — Limited encryption and few protections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Poor security — No encryption or protections
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

Device Compatibility

How well does this VPN work across different devices?

Excellent compatibility — Works on all devices without issues
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Good compatibility — Works on most devices with few issues
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average compatibility — Works on some devices, limited support
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Poor compatibility — Works only on specific devices
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very limited compatibility — Works on very few devices
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

Speed During Use

How fast is your internet connection when using this VPN?

Very fast — No noticeable decrease in speed
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Fast — Slight decrease in speed
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average speed — Moderate decrease in speed
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Slow — Significant decrease in speed
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very slow — Extremely slow, hard to use
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

Customer Support

How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?

Exceptional — Quick responses, helpful solutions
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Good — Support is helpful and timely
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Support is okay but may take some time
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Poor — Long wait times and incomplete solutions
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very poor — No helpful support, slow responses
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

Design Appeal

How would you rate the design appeal of this VPN's interface?

Very appealing — Modern, clean, and visually pleasing
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Appealing — Simple and easy on the eyes
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Nothing special, functional but basic
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Unappealing — Outdated and unattractive
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very unappealing — Difficult to look at
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

Pricing

How would you rate the price of this VPN compared to its features?

Great value for money — Worth every penny
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Pretty good price — Good balance of features and cost
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Fair deal — Reasonable for the features provided
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Kinda pricey — Higher cost than expected
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark
Crazy expensive — Far too expensive for what it offers
0 Votes
OpenVPN
0 Votes
Surfshark

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
OpenVPN
0 / 5 0 Reviews
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions 0

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards 2

Only the best made it here.
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