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Hotspot Shield vs Surfshark: 169 Highlights & 78 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better

A quick look at gaming optimizations to identify the best VPN for low latency and fast speeds. We compared Hotspot Shield and Surfshark for people who care about account sharing policy, deployment type, logging policy type & connection logs and time-saving tools. Here’s what to know before committing.

62 Points
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield
83 Points
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
vs

Highlights 175

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

Why is Hotspot Shield better than Surfshark ?

Scroll down for more facts

Hotspot Shield vs Surfshark VPNs: A Comparative Deep Dive

Choosing the right VPN often boils down to understanding the nuances between similar yet distinct products. Both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark cater primarily to individuals and families seeking reliable privacy, streaming, gaming, and P2P support. They each offer high-grade regulatory compliance with GDPR and CCPA adherence, with robust security features like kill switches, stealth modes, and periodic third-party audits ensuring user data protection. 

Both VPNs provide unlimited bandwidth via Tier III data centers and hybrid server ownership that uphold strong network infrastructure, also delivering access to popular streaming platforms such as Netflix and Hulu, with support for 4K streaming and cloud gaming functionality.

Yet, some core differences set these two apart significantly. While Hotspot Shield uses RSA key exchange exclusively and maintains connection and metadata logs, Surfshark employs both ECDHE and RSA key exchanges, operates RAM-only servers, and guarantees no connection or metadata logging. Surfshark also boasts faster peak speeds, broader platform support, more advanced features, and granular account control options. Hotspot Shield counters with a 7-day free trial and easier payment methods, which may draw in users wary of initial commitments.

Hotspot Shield's Simplicity and Tried-and-True Performance

Hotspot Shield stands out with its 7-day free trial, providing users a risk-free chance to explore its offerings. This VPN supports a smooth user experience with broad operating system compatibility, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and routers. However, it lacks browser extensions and command-line interface (CLI) tools. Its security is solid, featuring RSA key exchange, a kill switch, and stealth mode. However, it does log connection and metadata data, which is a notable privacy concession compared to others.

Despite capping peak speeds at roughly 150 Mbps with a 20 ms latency impact, Hotspot Shield still offers gaming-optimized servers and reliable streaming performance across major platforms with 4K support. For those valuing simplicity without advanced customization, Hotspot Shield's lack of automation scripts, custom DNS, or mesh networking limits complexity while delivering the essentials efficiently.

Customer support is straightforward, offering live chat and email assistance, without additional community forums or detailed API documentation. The account sharing policy is lenient, but there are no features for creating sub-accounts or managing multiple user profiles. Payment flexibility via credit card and PayPal, combined with a reputable public image, albeit with minor legal issues, makes Hotspot Shield a dependable and accessible VPN option.

Surfshark's Cutting-Edge Privacy and Feature Richness

Surfshark pushes the envelope with its real no-log policy, RAM-only server operation, and advanced encryption through combined ECDHE and RSA key exchanges. These specifications appeal greatly to privacy-conscious users looking for the highest level of data security. Performance-wise, Surfshark shines with peak speeds scaling up to 550 Mbps and lower latency impacts of just 15 ms, making it a standout choice for gaming and heavy streaming.

This VPN's extensive compatibility includes support for smart TVs, IoT devices, browser extensions, and CLI tools, extending usability across modern smart environments. A treasure trove of advanced features, such as automation scripts, custom DNS, mesh networking, and API access, empowers power users and organizations with customization and control unheard of in simpler VPN services.

From an account management perspective, Surfshark allows multi-user profiles, sub-accounts, and access control levels, enhancing family or business use cases. Added benefits include visible login histories, detailed session management, and a robust support network featuring live chat, email, ticket systems, community forums, and comprehensive API documentation. While it lacks a free trial, its pricing starts attractively at $1.70/month, with varied payment options including cryptocurrency and gift cards, making it flexible for different user preferences and budgets.

Surfshark boasts an excellent reputation, a clean legal record, and transparent audit histories, building strong trust among users committed to both privacy and performance.

Quick Take

Hotspot Shield is perfect for users wanting a straightforward VPN with a free trial to test before committing, offering reliable streaming and gaming experiences without overwhelming complexity. Surfshark dominates in speed, advanced privacy, and customization options, catering to users who want cutting-edge features and comprehensive device support for families or businesses.

Bottom Line

If raw speed, ultimate privacy, and a rich feature set are top priorities, Surfshark emerges as the clear front-runner. Its advanced technologies and extensive support make it ideal for power users, gamers, streamers, and multi-device households. However, if ease of use, straightforward VPN protection, and a risk-free trial are more important, Hotspot Shield remains a viable, user-friendly option.

Verdict

  • Winner: Surfshark - Excels in performance, privacy, platform support, and advanced features, making it a comprehensive VPN solution.
  • Runner-up: Hotspot Shield - Offers accessible, reliable VPN basics with a free trial, suitable for casual users or those new to VPNs.

Comparisons 37

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

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

Related comparisons 37

Because one duel is never enough.

Comparisons & Facts 175

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

See what separates Hotspot Shield from Surfshark in this detailed vpn review — highlighting tools, hidden features, support, and what real users think.

General Information 12

Account Sharing Policy

Is account sharing allowed?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Allowed

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Account Sharing Policy

Both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark allow account sharing, offering flexibility for multiple users under one subscription. This makes either service equally convenient for households or groups to share VPN access.

Defines rules around sharing accounts.

Deployment Type

What is the deployment type?

82 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Cloud-Based

87 Surfshark 0 Votes Cloud-Based

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Deployment Type

Both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark utilize cloud-based deployment, ensuring modern infrastructure for scalability and performance. Neither service has an edge here, both offering similar deployment advantages.

How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.

Regulatory Compliance Statement

What regulations does it comply with?

77 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes GDPR, CCPA

82 Surfshark 0 Votes GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Regulatory Compliance Statement

Hotspot Shield is compliant with GDPR and CCPA, while Surfshark adds UK GDPR compliance. For users requiring broader regulatory compliance, Surfshark's coverage is more extensive, making it preferable for those concerned with UK data privacy.

Stated compliance with data protection regulations.

VPN Service Type

What type of VPN service is offered?

22 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Consumer 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.

Intended Use

What is this VPN mainly used for?

47 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Privacy, Streaming, Gaming, P2P

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

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Intended Use

Intended use varies slightly: Hotspot Shield focuses on Privacy, Streaming, Gaming, and P2P, while Surfshark adds Security as well. Surfshark's additional emphasis on security suggests it is better suited for users prioritizing enhanced protective measures.

Describes the main use cases supported.

Release Year

When was this VPN first released?

22 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes 2005

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 2018

Surfshark
Surfshark

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

Year the VPN service was first released.

Service Model

What service model does the VPN use?

47 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Subscription-Based,Free Tier

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.

Supported Devices Count

How many devices are supported?

62 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes 7–10 Devices

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

Surfshark
Surfshark

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

Maximum number of devices supported per account.

Simultaneous Connections

How many simultaneous connections are allowed?

52 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes 8–10 Connections

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Allows 8–10 Connections concurrently, which is suitable for households or users with many devices.

Number of devices that can connect at the same time.

Platform Category

Which platform categories are supported?

66 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

71 Surfshark 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

Indicates supported platform categories.

Target User

Who is this VPN designed for?

57 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Individual, Family

62 Surfshark 0 Votes Individual, Family

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Target User

Both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark target Individual and Family users. This shared focus makes either VPN suitable for personal and familial online privacy and security needs without preference for one over the other.

Identifies the primary audience.

Service Availability

Where is the service available?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Global

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Global

Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.

Security & Encryption 24

Key Exchange Method

How are encryption keys exchanged?

61 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes RSA

77 Surfshark 1 Votes ECDHE, RSA

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Key Exchange Method

Hotspot Shield employs RSA for key exchange, whereas Surfshark uses both ECDHE and RSA, offering stronger forward secrecy. Surfshark is thus more advanced in key exchange security, better suited for users needing cutting-edge encryption.

Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.

Hotspot Shield uses just RSA for key exchange which is solid but I like Surfshark's combo of ECDHE and RSA for better security.

See more

Kill Switch

Is a kill switch available?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Kill Switch

Both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark include a Kill Switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops. This is a crucial safety feature well implemented by both providers.

Blocks traffic if VPN connection drops.

Stealth Mode

Is stealth mode available?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Stealth Mode

Stealth Mode is available on both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark, allowing users to bypass VPN blocks and censorship effectively. This feature is evenly matched, suitable for users needing discreet VPN use.

Hides VPN usage from detection systems.

Audit Frequency

How often are audits done?

71 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Periodic

77 Surfshark 0 Votes Periodic

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Audit Frequency

Audit frequency for both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark is periodic, indicating ongoing security assessments. Each service maintains continuous trustworthiness through repeated scrutiny.

How often audits are performed.

VPN Protocols Supported

Which VPN protocols are supported?

72 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes OpenVPN

79 Surfshark 0 Votes OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Primary supported protocol is OpenVPN, a widely used option known for balance between security and compatibility.

Surfshark
Surfshark

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

Lists all supported VPN protocols.

Encryption Standard

What encryption standard is used?

62 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes AES

72 Surfshark 0 Votes AES, ChaCha20

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Encryption standard is AES, a widely adopted cipher family commonly used for VPN tunnel encryption.

Specifies the primary encryption algorithms used.

Encryption Strength

What encryption strength is used?

82 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes AES-256

87 Surfshark 0 Votes AES-256

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.

Default Protocol

What protocol is used by default?

72 Hotspot Shield 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.

IPv6 Leak Protection

Is IPv6 leak protection supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

IPv6 leak protection is active, which helps prevent your IPv6 address from being exposed outside the VPN tunnel.

Prevents IPv6 traffic leaks.

Firewall Integration

Does it integrate with a firewall?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

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.

Obfuscation Technology

Is traffic obfuscation supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Obfuscation technology conceals VPN traffic to evade censorship and VPN blocks.

Masks VPN traffic to bypass censorship.

Multi-Hop VPN

Is multi-hop VPN supported?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Surfshark
Surfshark

Multi-hop VPN chains user traffic through multiple servers for enhanced privacy and anonymity.

Routes traffic through multiple servers.

Privacy & Logging Policy 18

RAM-Only Servers

Are RAM-only servers used?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
RAM-Only Servers

Hotspot Shield does not use RAM-only servers, while Surfshark does. RAM-only servers ensure no data is retained after power loss, making Surfshark more suitable for users prioritizing ephemeral data security.

Indicates use of volatile memory servers.

Connection Logs

Are connection logs stored?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

No 1 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Connection Logs

Hotspot Shield logs connection data, while Surfshark does not. For users desiring to avoid connection logging, Surfshark is the better option for maintaining privacy.

Indicates logging of connection metadata.

I prefer Surfshark since it doesn’t keep connection logs at all, privacy is definitely stronger there.

See more

Logging Policy Type

What is the logging policy type?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes No-Logs

97 Surfshark 0 Votes No-Logs

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Logging Policy Type

Both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark maintain a No-Logs policy, ensuring they do not record user activity logs. This makes either VPN a strong choice for privacy-conscious users.

Describes the overall logging stance.

Metadata Logs

Are metadata logs collected?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Metadata Logs

Hotspot Shield logs metadata, but Surfshark does not. For users aiming to reduce data trails, Surfshark offers enhanced privacy in this area.

Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.

User Data Deletion Policy

Can users delete their data?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
User Data Deletion Policy

Both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark provide a user data deletion policy, allowing users to request removal of their data. Either is recommended for those focused on data control and privacy compliance.

Indicates if users can request data deletion.

Privacy Certification

Does it have privacy certifications?

0 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes None

47 Surfshark 0 Votes ISO 27001, TRUSTe

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

The provider lists None for privacy certifications, indicating there are no publicly stated third-party privacy attestations.

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.

Bandwidth Usage Logging

Is bandwidth usage logged?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Bandwidth usage logging is enabled; this may record aggregate transfer amounts which could be relevant for support or compliance.

Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.

Data Retention Period

How long is data retained?

0 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Indefinite

97 Surfshark 0 Votes No Logs

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Data retention is listed as 45 Days, meaning certain logs or records may be kept for that period before deletion.

Length of time user data is retained.

Activity Logs

Are activity logs stored?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether user activity is logged.

IP Address Logging

Are IP addresses logged?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.

Timestamp Logging

Are timestamps logged?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates logging of session timestamps.

Jurisdiction Country

Which country is the jurisdiction?

82 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes United States

82 Surfshark 0 Votes Netherlands

Country where the VPN company is legally registered.

Network & Server Infrastructure 20

Data Center Tier

What data center tier is used?

42 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Tier III

47 Surfshark 0 Votes Tier III

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Data Center Tier

Data centers for both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark are rated Tier III, ensuring high availability and robust infrastructure. Both services offer reliable data center quality.

Indicates data center reliability level.

Bandwidth Capacity

What is the bandwidth capacity?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Unlimited

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Bandwidth Capacity

Bandwidth capacity is unlimited on both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark, providing no use caps for streaming, gaming, or downloads, suitable for bandwidth-heavy users.

Overall bandwidth capability of the network.

Server Ownership

Who owns the servers?

62 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Hybrid

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Hybrid

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Server Ownership

Both VPNs have hybrid server ownership, combining owned and leased infrastructure. This blend helps balance cost and control efficiently in both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark.

Describes who controls the servers.

Gaming Optimized Servers

Are gaming servers available?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Gaming Optimized Servers

Gaming optimized servers are provided by both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark, catering well to gamers seeking low latency and high performance. Both are equally good choices for gaming.

Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.

Throttling Policy

Is bandwidth throttled?

12 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes No Throttling

17 Surfshark 0 Votes No Throttling

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Throttling Policy

Neither Hotspot Shield nor Surfshark applies throttling policies, providing users with uncapped speeds and bandwidth. This benefits users who value consistent, fast connections.

Describes bandwidth throttling rules.

Total Server Count

How many servers are available?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes 3000+

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 3000+

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Total server count is 3000+, which helps with load distribution and offers many connection endpoints globally.

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?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes 90+

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 90+

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Coverage is listed as 90+, offering broad geographic access for content unblocking and routing.

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?

62 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes 50–100

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 200+

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 Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Unlimited bandwidth is provided, meaning there are no data caps during regular usage for typical subscription tiers.

Indicates if data usage is unlimited.

Server Location Type

Are server locations physical or virtual?

67 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Virtual

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Mixed

Indicates how server locations are implemented.

Load Balancing

Is load balancing supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Distributes traffic evenly across servers.

Smart Location Selection

Is smart location selection available?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Automatically selects optimal servers.

Performance & Speed 14

Latency Impact

How much latency does the VPN add?

20 ms 0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
15 ms 0 Votes
Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Latency Impact

Latency impact is 20 ms for Hotspot Shield and slightly lower at 15 ms for Surfshark. The 5 ms difference favors Surfshark for gamers or users desiring minimal delay.

Additional latency introduced by the VPN.

Smart Routing

Is smart routing used?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Smart Routing

Smart routing is supported by both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark, enabling efficient traffic management and faster connection speeds. This feature equally benefits users on either VPN.

Routes traffic through optimal paths.

Performance Analytics

Are performance analytics available?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Performance Analytics

Hotspot Shield does not offer performance analytics, while Surfshark provides this feature. Surfshark users gain insights into connection quality, benefiting those who want detailed performance monitoring.

Provides performance monitoring insights.

Regional Speed Optimization

Is regional speed optimization supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Regional Speed Optimization

Regional speed optimization exists in both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark, enabling better performance in various locations worldwide. Either VPN supports improved speed based on region.

Optimizes speeds by geographic region.

Peak Speed Performance

What is the peak speed performance?

150 Mbps 0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
550 Mbps 1 Votes
Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Peak Speed Performance

Hotspot Shield has a peak speed performance of 150 Mbps, whereas Surfshark significantly outperforms with 550 Mbps. Surfshark suits users demanding high-speed connections, especially for streaming and downloads.

Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.

Surfshark's peak speed is amazing compared to Hotspot Shield perfect if you want fast streaming and gaming.

See more

Average Download Speed

What is the average download speed?

85 Mbps 0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
480 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Average download speed is reported as 85 Mbps under typical usage conditions.

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.

Speed Consistency

How consistent are the speeds?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes High

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

The service reports High speed consistency, indicating stable throughput across sessions and fewer large speed fluctuations.

Surfshark
Surfshark

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

Stability of speeds over time.

Average Upload Speed

What is the average upload speed?

45 Mbps 0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
420 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark

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 Throttling

Is speed throttling applied?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.

Protocol Speed Optimization

Are protocols optimized for speed?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Optimizes protocol choice for speed.

Auto Server Selection Speed

Does it auto-select the fastest server?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Automatically selects fastest servers.

Speed Test Tool

Is there a built-in speed test?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Built-in tool for measuring VPN speed.

Platform & Device Support 13

OS Version Compatibility

Which OS versions are supported?

73 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

78 Surfshark 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
OS Version Compatibility

Both Hotspot Shield and Surfshark support Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Router platforms, covering a comprehensive range of devices equitably.

Operating systems and platforms supported.

Browser Extension

Are browser extensions available?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Browser Extension

Browser extensions are not offered by Hotspot Shield but are available with Surfshark. Users needing quick browser VPN access will find Surfshark more convenient.

Indicates availability of browser extensions.

Surfshark’s support for browser extensions is a game changer compared to Hotspot Shield which has none.

See more

Smart TV

Are smart TVs supported?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
Smart TV

Surfshark supports Smart TVs, whereas Hotspot Shield does not, making Surfshark better suited for users wanting VPN access on their television devices.

Indicates support for smart TV platforms.

CLI Support

Is CLI support available?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
CLI Support

CLI support is absent in Hotspot Shield but present in Surfshark, making Surfshark more flexible for advanced users who prefer command-line control and automation.

Indicates command-line interface availability.

IoT Device Compatibility

Are IoT devices compatible?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
vs
Surfshark
IoT Device Compatibility

IoT device compatibility is absent in Hotspot Shield but included with Surfshark. This advantage suits users integrating VPN protection for smart home or IoT devices with Surfshark.

Indicates compatibility with IoT devices.

Browser Types Supported

Which browsers are supported?

83 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge

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 Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.

Manual Configuration

Is manual configuration supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows manual VPN setup.

App Interface Consistency

Is the app interface consistent?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Consistent

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Consistent

Consistency of UI across platforms.

Cross-Platform Sync

Is cross-platform sync available?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Syncs settings across devices.

Device Management Dashboard

Is there a device management dashboard?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Centralized device management interface.

ARM Architecture

Are ARM devices supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates support for ARM-based devices.

Features & Functionality 24

API Access

Is API access available?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

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.

Per-App Rules

Can rules be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Per-app rules are enabled, allowing granular control over which applications route through the VPN and which use the regular network.

Applies VPN rules per application.

Custom DNS

Can custom DNS be configured?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows use of custom DNS resolvers.

Mesh Networking

Is mesh networking supported?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Connects devices in a private mesh network.

Automation Scripts

Are automation scripts supported?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows use of automation scripts.

LAN Access

Is LAN access allowed?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

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?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

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?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

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.

Split Tunneling

Is split tunneling supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows selective routing of traffic outside the VPN.

App-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows split tunneling by application.

URL-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set by URL?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows split tunneling by website or domain.

Auto-Connect Rules

Are auto-connect rules supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Automatically connects under defined conditions.

Streaming, Gaming & P2P Support 9

Streaming Platform Support

Which streaming platforms are supported?

79 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

84 Surfshark 0 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.

Streaming Reliability

How reliable is streaming access?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes High

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Streaming reliability is rated High, suggesting consistent performance for video playback with fewer buffering interruptions.

Consistency of streaming access over time.

Torrenting Policy

Is torrenting allowed?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Allowed

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Torrenting is Allowed, indicating support for P2P file sharing (often restricted to specific servers).

Defines torrenting rules.

4K Streaming

Is 4K streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.

Cloud Gaming

Does it support cloud gaming?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.

HD Streaming

Is HD streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates support for HD streaming quality.

Gaming Latency Optimization

Is gaming latency optimized?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.

P2P File Sharing

Is P2P file sharing allowed?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.

Port Selection for P2P

Can ports be selected for P2P?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows port selection for P2P traffic.

Account, Access & Management 10

Multi-User Profiles

Can multiple user profiles be created?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows multiple user profiles under one account.

Sub-Account

Are sub-accounts supported?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.

Access Control Levels

Are access control levels available?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Supports different permission levels.

Session Management

Can active sessions be managed?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows viewing and managing active sessions.

Login History Visibility

Is login history visible?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Shows login and access history.

Two-Factor Authentication

Is two-factor authentication available?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Two-factor authentication is not available, so account protection relies primarily on password policies and any available device safeguards.

Adds an extra layer of account security.

User Account Dashboard

Is there a user account dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

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 Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of shared plans.

Device Revocation

Can devices be revoked remotely?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows removal of connected devices remotely.

Password Policy

How strong is the password policy?

62 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Strong

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong

Rules for password complexity and security.

Customer Support & Documentation 8

Support Channels

What support channels are available?

67 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Live Chat, Email

64 Surfshark 0 Votes Live Chat, Email, Ticket

Lists available customer support channels.

Knowledge Base

Is there a knowledge base?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.

Response Time SLA

What is the response time SLA?

62 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

Expected support response time.

Community Forum

Is there a community forum?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates presence of a user community forum.

Setup Guides

Are setup guides available?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Provides step-by-step setup instructions.

Video Tutorials

Are video tutorials available?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.

API Documentation

Is API documentation available?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Provides documentation for API usage.

Support Language Coverage

What support languages are available?

47 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes English, Multi-language

52 Surfshark 0 Votes English, Multi-language

Languages supported by customer service.

Billing, Plans & Trials 12

Trial Duration

How long is the free trial?

7 days 0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
7 days 0 Votes
Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

A trial duration of 7 days is offered for testing features and compatibility before committing to a paid plan.

Length of the free trial period.

Free Trial Availability

Is a free trial available?

Yes 1 Votes Hotspot Shield

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates whether a free trial is offered.

Hotspot Shield offers a free trial which is cool if you want to test it out before buying anything.

See more

Money-Back Guarantee

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.

Payment Methods Supported

What payment methods are supported?

52 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal

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

Supported payment methods.

Business Plan Availability

Are business plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of business plans.

Subscription Length Options

What subscription lengths are available?

55 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly

64 Surfshark 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Subscription options include Monthly and Yearly plans, allowing flexibility between short-term and annual commitments.

Available subscription durations.

Refund Period

What is the refund period?

72 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes 45 Days

67 Surfshark 0 Votes 30 Days

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

The refund window is 45 Days, which is more generous than many providers and allows extended time to request a refund.

Time window for requesting refunds.

Auto-Renewal

Is auto-renewal enabled?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Auto-renewal is enabled, so subscriptions will renew automatically unless canceled through account settings.

Indicates whether subscriptions auto-renew.

Plan Change Policy

What is the plan change policy?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Plan changes are Allowed Anytime, enabling customers to switch plans without waiting for a billing cycle to end.

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

Anonymous Payment

Are anonymous payments supported?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Allows anonymous payment methods.

Plan Flexibility

How flexible are the plans?

92 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes High

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

Ease of changing plans.

Family Plan Availability

Are family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Indicates availability of family plans.

Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11

Independent Security Audits

Are independent audits conducted?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Independent security audits are conducted, which provides additional assurance through third-party review of security practices.

Undergoes third-party security audits.

Audit Transparency

Are audit reports public?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Publishes full audit reports.

No-Log Claim Credibility

Is the no-logs claim credible?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Credibility of no-logs claims.

Public Reputation

What is the public reputation?

52 Hotspot Shield 0 Votes Good

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Excellent

Overall public perception.

Service Uptime

What is the service uptime?

99.9 % 0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
99.9 % 0 Votes
Surfshark

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield

Advertised service uptime is 99.9%, which implies high availability but still allows for occasional maintenance or outages.

Average service availability over time.

Downtime Transparency

Are downtimes disclosed?

No 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.

Company Transparency

Is company ownership transparent?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Discloses ownership and leadership.

Jurisdiction Clarity

Is jurisdiction clearly stated?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Clearly states legal jurisdiction.

Transparency Reports

Are transparency reports published?

Yes 0 Votes Hotspot Shield

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Publishes government request reports.

Third-Party Review Presence

Does the VPN have third-party reviews?

92 Hotspot Shield 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
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Fast — 2 to 4 hours
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average speed — 4 to 6 hours
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Slow — 6 to 10 hours
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very slow — Over 10 hours
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark

Ease of Setup

How easy is it to set up this VPN?

Very easy — Takes under 5 minutes
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Easy — Takes 5 to 10 minutes
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Takes 10 to 15 minutes
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Hard — Takes 15 to 30 minutes
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very hard — Takes over 30 minutes
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
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
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Easy to use — Clear and simple interface
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Some features may be difficult to navigate
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Hard to use — Complex layout, hard to understand
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very hard to use — Frustrating interface
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark

Connection Stability

How stable is the connection when using this VPN?

Very stable — Rare disconnections
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Stable — Occasional disconnections
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average stability — Frequent minor disconnections
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Unstable — Regular disconnections
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very unstable — Almost always disconnects
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
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
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Great security — Includes strong encryption and basic protections
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average security — Standard encryption, basic protections
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Weak security — Limited encryption and few protections
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Poor security — No encryption or protections
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark

Device Compatibility

How well does this VPN work across different devices?

Excellent compatibility — Works on all devices without issues
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Good compatibility — Works on most devices with few issues
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average compatibility — Works on some devices, limited support
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Poor compatibility — Works only on specific devices
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very limited compatibility — Works on very few devices
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
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
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Fast — Slight decrease in speed
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average speed — Moderate decrease in speed
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Slow — Significant decrease in speed
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very slow — Extremely slow, hard to use
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark

Customer Support

How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?

Exceptional — Quick responses, helpful solutions
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Good — Support is helpful and timely
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Support is okay but may take some time
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Poor — Long wait times and incomplete solutions
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very poor — No helpful support, slow responses
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
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
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Appealing — Simple and easy on the eyes
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Average — Nothing special, functional but basic
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Unappealing — Outdated and unattractive
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Very unappealing — Difficult to look at
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
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
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Pretty good price — Good balance of features and cost
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Fair deal — Reasonable for the features provided
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Kinda pricey — Higher cost than expected
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark
Crazy expensive — Far too expensive for what it offers
0 Votes
Hotspot Shield
0 Votes
Surfshark

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield
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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Treasures You’ve picked. No fluff, all fun.

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