Allison Murray/ZDNET
Surfshark and CyberGhost are consistently ranked among the top VPNs. They are high-value yet relatively affordable VPNs, which is why most users love them.
Also: NordVPN vs Surfshark
One unique thing about Surfshark is that there's no cap on the number of devices you can connect. It shares a lot with NordVPN, especially from a security point of view. But it's not as streaming-centered as CyberGhost. Also, I had minor but persistent server connection issues with the app, but it worked smoothly once I connected.
So, which one should you choose for your needs? Based on my experience with both services, I can point you in the right direction.
Specifications
Surfshark CyberGhost Best deal $1.99/month for two years $2.19/month for two years Server network 3,200+ servers in 100 countries 10,000+ servers in 100 countries Special servers P2P, MultiHop, Obfuscated Streaming, gaming, and torrenting Dedicated IP 14 locations 21 locations Simultaneous connections Unlimited Seven Protocols WireGuard, OpenVPN (TCP/UDP), IKEv2/IPSec WireGuard, OpenVPN (TCP/UDP), IKEv2/IPSec Security and privacy AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, leak protection, CleanWeb (ad/malware blocker), Static/Rotational IPs, antivirus AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, DNS/IPv4/IPv6 leak protection, WiFi Protection, NoSpy servers, Content Blocker (ad and malware) No-logs policy Audited no-logs policy (by Deloitte) Audited no-logs policy (by Deloitte) Jurisdiction Netherlands (14 Eyes intelligence country) Romania Free trial/money-back guarantee Seven days (iOS and Android only) and a 30-day money-back guarantee 1-7 days on PC and mobile devices, and a 45-day money-back guarantee Compatible devices Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Smart TVs (Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV Stick), consoles, browsers, and routers Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Smart TVs (Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV Stick), consoles, browsers, and routers
You should buy Surfshark if...
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
1. You want connection flexibility and pocket-friendly rates
A limitation with most VPNs, CyberGhost included, is that they restrict connections to around five or ten devices at a time. That's not the case with Surfshark, which allows unlimited connections with every plan you choose. It's an ideal option if you want a VPN to cover your entire family, plus devices that you use when traveling away from home. With CyberGhost, I sometimes have to log out of two or more devices to create more slots for my testing companions when the maximum of seven devices is reached.
Review: Surfshark
Surfshark isn't that costly either. It's one of the most affordable VPN services for extended use, with Starter plans from as low as $1.99/month for 27 months. CyberGhost's two-year plan is around $2.19 per month, but it has the cheaper one-month plan of the two.
2. You want a VPN to bypass network restrictions and internet censorship
Can't open some domains from the school Wi-Fi or a stay-in hotel? Surfshark works better with such kinds of network filters. When connected to the OpenVPN protocol (UDP or TCP), Camouflage Mode is instantly activated. It masks your IP address and VPN use, making it easier to get around these firewalls without detection. Also, NoBorders Mode suggests reliable servers for restrictive places like China, where most VPNs don't work.
However, I noted that CyberGhost has an advantage when it comes to IP addresses. It offers servers in locations that aren't VPN-friendly, like China, Iran, Russia, and Belarus. That means you get secure local servers when visiting these places -- subject to the condition that the VPN works. But if you're going to use Surfshark, you may have to find servers in nearby countries to safely browse without being monitored.
3. You want a speedier VPN of the two
Surfshark and CyberGhost aren't the fastest VPNs, but they are still above-average performers. That being said, I've repeatedly noted in my speed tests that Surfshark's WireGuard protocol delivers more efficient tunneling than CyberGhost's. It's impossible to guarantee similar outcomes (several other factors, including your location, can affect performance), but you're better off with Surfshark if you need even the slightest speed advantage.
4. You want advanced protection (except for some minor privacy issues)
Both Surfshark and CyberGhost use robust encryption protocols and IP protection mechanisms. But Surfshark offers significantly more settings to tailor security and privacy. Unlike CyberGhost, which only has dynamic IPs, you can choose between static and rotational IP addresses. It's also possible to set up an alternative online profile, so you won't expose sensitive details like your email or home address when signing up for less important services online.
Again, Surfshark's Security Suite (VPN plus antivirus) provides defense from real-time threats when downloading files and apps on PC and mobile devices (CyberGhost's suite only works on Windows). A drawback of Surfshark is that it's based in the Netherlands, which isn't as good for privacy as Romania for CyberGhost. In very extreme cases, the provider can be compelled to hand over users' data to the Dutch government and its 14 Eyes Alliance partners.
You should buy CyberGhost if...
Kerry Wan/ZDNET
1. You want a more reliable VPN for media streaming and gaming
CyberGhost's stronghold is its specialized servers. It offers streaming-ready servers for more than eighty platforms worldwide, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus, alongside low-ping servers for responsive gameplay. Of course, Surfshark also has obfuscation to help get around streaming georestrictions, but my experience with CyberGhost was seamless and convenient.
Review: CyberGhost
The smart DNS feature CyberGhost offers can be configured for US and UK streaming, while Surfshark's tool only works with US streaming services. Smart DNS support enables you to access and watch georestricted content on streaming devices that don't natively support VPN setup, like Samsung and LG TVs and consoles like Xbox and Nintendo Switch. However, it doesn't provide encrypted connections like a VPN does.
2. You want a stress-free VPN app that is convenient for a beginner
CyberGhost apps are very simple. The provider maintains the same minimalist feel across the board, whether you install it on a smartphone, PC, or smart TV. I bet you will like it a lot more on Android and iPhone apps than Surfshark, one reason being it's more lightweight and doesn't drain power. Server selection is a lot easier because the list shows latency information on individual servers, and the specialized servers are well labeled.
While my experience setting up both apps was quite similar, Surkshark took almost a full minute to launch on Windows and even longer to connect to servers. It kept bouncing from one server to another before finally settling on one. But with Cyberghost, things were mostly smooth. Even switching servers took roughly 5 seconds. However, CyberGhost's router setup is limited to the OpenVPN protocol, while Surfshark also supports the modern WireGuard protocol.
3. You want some hands-off VPN automation features
When using home, public, or office hotspots without any protection, you become an easy target for cybercriminals. CyberGhost offers some cool settings to automate when and how the VPN should connect. Smart Rules and WiFi Protection features can instantly launch the VPN or give reminders every time you want to use an untrusted network. You can also set exemptions for home networks where encrypting connections isn't necessary.
Provided you've set the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) to automatic, CyberGhost adjusts data packet sizes depending on the strength of your internet source. This fragmentation helps to maintain steady connections even on slow networks. There's also a built-in Connection Checker to help diagnose whether your internet is working properly when troubleshooting connectivity problems.
4. You want a solid VPN trial with a longstanding refund policy
CyberGhost offers free trials on PCs and mobile devices, something that isn't very common with most of the big providers. Windows and Mac users can test the app for free for up to 24 hours (no credit card needed), Android for three days, and iOS for up to seven days. That's enough time to get a feel of the premium service and decide if it's worth buying.
Along with that, the VPN has a 45-day money-back guarantee, which is more than enough time to ask for a refund if you change your mind. Surfshark's money-back guarantee, on the other hand, lasts 30 days, and you can only get a free trial on mobile (you must purchase through Google Play or the App Store).
The final verdict
The more durable and feature-rich of these two is Surfshark. If you want something beyond just a basic VPN, like highly configurable security settings and travel-friendly features, it's the right choice. But for novices who cherish simplicity and great streaming support, CyberGhost works right out of the box, including with smartphones. Pricewise, it doesn't make that much of a difference which one you choose because both have economical extended subscriptions.
Does Surfshark stop viruses?
Yes, Surfshark Security Suite (with antivirus package) can block threats like viruses, malware, and trojans. It scans system files and downloads, disabling any malicious programs and apps from executing. The software also utilizes a database called Cloud Protect to identify emerging threats on the internet and immediately updates protection to mitigate zero-day attacks. However, it's not as advanced as a standalone antivirus, and therefore isn't effective for some kinds of threats, like those that exploit human error.
Which VPN offers better value for money between Surfshark and CyberGhost?
Surfshark has more features and costs slightly less than CyberGhost. You can simultaneously connect all your devices, and it's even faster in terms of speed performance. Subscribing monthly, however, is expensive compared to CyberGhost. You get the most value out of the VPN if you purchase one or two-year plans.
Which one is good for torrenting between CyberGhost and Surfshark?
Either can be used for torrenting since both have P2P-optimized servers. Surfshark provides more beneficial features for torrenting, including efficient tunneling speeds and privacy protection settings. Unfortunately, both VPN apps do not support port forwarding, citing security reasons. See the top VPNs we recommend for torrenting with useful features to optimize your peer-to-peer connections.
What are the disadvantages of CyberGhost?
CyberGhost supports up to seven simultaneous connections per account, while most providers average ten or more. Connections aren't consistent at peak hours and on some server locations. Sometimes it's slow and sometimes it's fast, making it not as reliable for high-bandwidth activities. Also, iOS and Mac users may find some essential features missing from the apps, for example, split tunneling and the OpenVPN protocol. CyberGhost lacks obfuscation features, limiting its ability to effectively access some strict websites that block VPN traffic.
Alternatives to consider