⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Surfshark starts at $1.99/mo vs Aura at $12/mo — Surfshark is 6x cheaper for VPN-only protection
- Best for: Surfshark for dedicated VPN with fast speeds and unlimited devices, Aura for all-in-one identity theft protection with a basic VPN bundled in
- Key difference: Surfshark is a full VPN service with 3,200+ servers and advanced features like MultiHop and split tunneling. Aura is primarily an identity protection suite that includes a basic VPN
- Our pick: Surfshark for most users who need a dedicated VPN — better server network, faster speeds, and far lower pricing
Surfshark and Aura are two popular VPN services that look like they solve the same problem.
They both promise to protect your internet connection.
But these two tools target very different users.
Surfshark is a dedicated virtual private network with 3,200+ VPN servers worldwide.
Aura is an identity theft protection service with a basic VPN add-on.
This comparison breaks down which one fits your needs.
Overview
This Surfshark VPN vs Aura VPN comparison covers VPN performance, pricing, and extra features.
We also break down who each tool works best for.
Our sources include published specs, documentation, and user reviews from this Surfshark VPN review. For a full Surfshark review, check the link below.
By the end, you’ll know which tool fits your online privacy needs.
What is Surfshark?
Surfshark is a VPN service based in the Netherlands.
It encrypts your internet traffic using AES-256 encryption and maintains a strict no logs policy.
Surfshark’s Windows app works alongside versions for Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.
It also has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Most users choose Surfshark for its unlimited simultaneous connections.
Surfshark
A fast VPN with unlimited device connections. Protects your online privacy with 3,200+ servers across 100 countries and a no-logs policy audited by Deloitte.
Surfshark Pricing
Here’s what Surfshark costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 24 Months +3 Extra | $1.99/month | Best value for long-term users |
| 12 Months +3 Extra | $3.19/month | Yearly commitment without big upfront cost |
| 1 Month | $15.45/month | Short-term use or testing |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: Yes — 7-day free trial on Android and iOS devices for annual and 2-year plans.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans except monthly. This day money back guarantee lets you test the full VPN service risk-free.
📌 Note: Surfshark pricing shown above is for the Starter tier, which includes all standard VPN features. Surfshark One (adds antivirus and alerts) starts at $2.49/mo for 2 years. Surfshark One+ (adds data removal via Incogni) starts at $4.29/mo for 2 years. All plans include unlimited device connections.
⚠️ Warning: Renewal prices increase after the initial term. The 2-year plan cannot be renewed at the same rate — you must switch to annual or monthly billing. Students can save 15% through Student Beans.
Key Benefits of Surfshark
Here’s what makes Surfshark worth considering:
- Unlimited Connections: Connect every device in your household with one Surfshark subscription. No caps on how many devices can run at the same time.
- Large Server Network: Access 3,200+ VPN servers across 100 countries. All servers run on 10 Gbps connections for faster download speeds.
- No-Logs Policy: Surfshark’s no-logs policy has been audited by both Deloitte and Cure53. IP addresses are only kept for 15 minutes after a session ends.
- MultiHop VPN: Route your VPN connection through two VPN servers for added security. Dynamic MultiHop lets you create custom server pairings.
- Alternative ID: Create a fake online identity for signing up on websites. This protects your real IP address and personal information. Surfshark also supports IP rotation to change your address regularly.
- CleanWeb Ad Blocker: Blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites while you browse. Works as both an ad and malware blocker.
- WireGuard Protocol: Fast and efficient VPN protocol. Speed tests show it delivers high download speeds with strong encryption.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Surfshark and spent several days exploring the platform. Here’s what stood out:
Surfshark Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on all devices
- Very affordable 2-year plans starting at $1.99/month
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries with 10 Gbps capacity
- Independently audited no-logs policy by Deloitte and Cure53
- Advanced features like MultiHop, split tunneling, and Alternative ID
❌ Cons
- Monthly plan is expensive at $15.45/month
- Renewal prices increase after the initial subscription term
- Inconsistent connection times reported on certain servers
- Based in the Netherlands, which is part of the Nine Eyes alliance
What is Aura?
Aura is an all-in-one digital security platform and one of the top identity theft protection services available.
It bundles identity theft protection, credit monitoring, and a VPN.
Aura also includes Aura antivirus software and a password manager.
The platform monitors your personal information across billions of data points.
Most users choose Aura for its identity protection, not its VPN.
Aura
An identity theft protection suite with credit monitoring, antivirus, VPN, and a password manager. Backed by $1 million in identity theft insurance per adult member.
Aura Pricing
Here’s what Aura costs in 2026.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | $12/month | Single users needing full protection |
| Couple | $22/month | Two adults sharing one subscription |
| Family | $32/month | Up to 5 adults + unlimited kids |
| Kids | $10/month | Parental controls and child monitoring |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: Yes — 14-day free trial on all plans, no credit card required.
Money-back guarantee: 60-day money-back guarantee on annual plans.
📌 Note: All Aura plans include the same core features — identity monitoring, credit monitoring, VPN, antivirus, and password manager. The only difference is how many people are covered. The Family plan adds parental controls and safe gaming features. Aura’s family plans cover the entire household.
⚠️ Warning: Aura’s VPN does not let you choose your server location. It also lacks a kill switch feature. If you need a full-featured VPN, Aura’s VPN may not meet your needs.
Key Benefits of Aura
Here’s what makes Aura worth considering:
- Identity Theft Protection: Aura monitors your personal information against billions of data points. It alerts you to potential credit fraud up to 250 times faster than competitors, according to Aura’s documentation.
- 3-Bureau Credit Monitoring: Tracks your Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion credit reports. Includes an instant Experian credit lock to protect your Experian credit file and Experian file from unauthorized access.
- $1 Million Insurance: Every adult member gets up to $1 million in identity theft insurance to cover eligible losses and legal fees.
- Dark Web Monitoring: Scans dark web sources for your stolen personal information. Aura also removes your data from data broker sites.
- All-in-One Suite: Includes antivirus software, password manager, VPN, and safe browsing tools — all in one app.
- Family Protection: The Family plan covers up to 5 adults and unlimited children’s Social Security Numbers. Includes parental controls and screen time limits.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Aura and spent several days exploring the platform. Here’s what stood out:
Aura Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- All-in-one identity protection with credit monitoring, antivirus, and VPN
- $1 million identity theft insurance per adult member
- 14-day free trial without requiring a credit card
- Family plan covers up to 5 adults with parental controls
- 60-day money-back guarantee gives plenty of time to test
❌ Cons
- VPN lacks server location selection and a kill switch
- No support for use in China or parts of the Middle East
- Starting price of $12/month is higher than dedicated VPN providers
- Antivirus lacks scheduled scans and scan logs
Feature Comparison
Let’s compare Surfshark and Aura across 9 key areas.
This covers everything from VPN performance to identity protection.
| Feature | Surfshark | Aura |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $1.99/month | $12/month |
| VPN Servers | 3,200+ in 100 countries | 100+ virtual locations |
| Unlimited Connections | ✅ | 10-50 devices (plan dependent) |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ❌ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Identity Theft Protection | ❌ (One+ only via Incogni) | ✅ |
| Credit Monitoring | ❌ | ✅ (3-bureau) |
| Antivirus Included | ✅ (One plan) | ✅ |
| No-Logs Audit | ✅ (Deloitte + Cure53) | No-logs policy stated |
| Best For | Dedicated VPN users | Identity protection users |
1. VPN Server Network
Surfshark: Surfshark runs 3,200+ VPN servers in 100 countries. All of Surfshark’s servers have been upgraded to 10 Gbps connections. You can pick specific server locations, including options for dedicated IP addresses and static IP addresses in 20 locations.
Aura: Aura’s VPN has over 100 virtual locations. However, you cannot choose your server location manually. The VPN assigns a server for you automatically, which limits control over your VPN connection.
2. Privacy and No-Logs Policy
Surfshark: Surfshark’s privacy policy states it does not log browsing history, network traffic, or session data. This no-logs policy has been independently audited by both Deloitte and Cure53. Surfshark only keeps IP addresses for 15 minutes after a session ends.
Aura: Aura maintains a no-logs policy and states it does not store browsing history. However, it may log your IP address temporarily during a session. Aura has not published results from an independent audit of its VPN logging practices.
3. Device Connections
Surfshark: Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections on all your devices. One subscription covers your entire household. This makes Surfshark ideal for families with multiple devices.
Aura: Aura supports up to 10 devices per user on Individual plans. The Family plan covers up to 50 devices across 5 adults. This is enough for most households, but not truly unlimited like Surfshark.
4. Security Features
Surfshark: Surfshark includes a kill switch that blocks internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. It also offers MultiHop (double VPN), Camouflage Mode (similar to obfuscated servers) to hide VPN traffic, the WireGuard and OpenVPN protocol options for fast, encrypted connections.
Aura: Aura’s VPN lacks a kill switch feature. It does block access to known dangerous sites, malicious sites, and phishing attempts. Aura also includes antivirus with real time protection against malware, scoring between 98% and 100% in malware detection tests.
⚠️ Warning: Without a kill switch, Aura’s VPN could expose your real IP address if the connection drops. If you need strong VPN security, Surfshark is the safer pick for added protection.
5. Identity Theft Protection
Surfshark: Surfshark does not include identity theft protection in its Starter plan. The One plan adds alerts for data breaches via Surfshark Alert. The One+ plan includes Incogni, which removes your data from data brokers and their sites. Neither plan provides credit monitoring or identity theft insurance.
Aura: Identity protection is Aura’s core strength. Every plan includes credit monitoring across all three bureaus, dark web monitoring, $1 million insurance, and access to U.S. fraud specialists. Once Aura monitored your accounts, it also provides home title monitoring, bank accounts monitoring, financial transactions tracking, and financial fraud alerts.
6. Split Tunneling
Surfshark: Surfshark’s split tunneling feature is called Bypasser. It lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN tunnel and which connect directly. This is useful for online banking or local streaming.
Aura: Aura also offers split tunneling. You can select which apps use the VPN and which bypass it. However, Aura’s VPN configuration options are more limited compared to Surfshark’s app.
7. Streaming and Torrenting
Surfshark: According to Surfshark’s documentation, it can unblock Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and other streaming services. The WireGuard protocol delivers fast download speeds for buffer-free streaming. Surfshark also supports P2P traffic on its servers.
Aura: Aura’s VPN is not built for streaming or torrenting. Aura’s documentation describes its VPN as a “decent all-rounder” rather than a streaming-focused tool. Aura allows P2P traffic but does not recommend it due to the lack of a kill switch.
8. Password Manager
Surfshark: Surfshark does not include a password manager in any plan. If you need password management, you’ll need a separate tool like Bitwarden or 1Password.
Aura: Aura includes a password manager in all plans. It stores and generates secure passwords for your online accounts across devices. Aura’s password manager also alerts you if your saved passwords appear in a data breach.
9. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | Surfshark | Aura |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest Option | $1.99/mo (2-year Starter) | $10/mo (Kids) |
| Individual | $1.99–$15.45/mo | $12/mo |
| Family/Multi-User | $1.99/mo (unlimited devices) | $32/mo (Family, 5 adults) |
| Monthly Plan | $15.45/mo | $12/mo (Individual) |
| Free Trial | 7 days (iOS/Android) | 14 days (no card needed) |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 60 days |
Surfshark: The 2-year plan at $1.99/month is extremely affordable for a premium VPN. It includes 3 extra months free, bringing the total to 27 months for $53.73 upfront. The One plan adds antivirus and alerts for just $2.49/month on the 2-year tier.
Aura: At $12/month for the Individual plan, Aura is 6x more expensive than Surfshark’s cheapest option. But you’re paying for identity theft protection, credit monitoring, and insurance — not just a VPN. Aura’s longer 60-day money-back guarantee and 14-day free trial offer more testing time.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget VPN | Surfshark | $1.99/mo for full VPN access |
| Identity theft protection | Aura | 3-bureau credit monitoring + $1M insurance |
| Streaming and torrenting | Surfshark | 3,200+ servers, fast speeds |
| Family digital safety | Aura | Parental controls + child monitoring |
| Unlimited device connections | Surfshark | No device caps on any plan |
| All-in-one protection | Aura | VPN + antivirus + ID protection in one app |
💰 Your Budget
Surfshark wins on VPN value at $1.99/month for 2 years. Aura costs $12/month but includes identity protection, credit monitoring, and antivirus — services that would cost more if purchased separately.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Surfshark works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Apple TV, and Fire TV with browser extensions. Aura’s VPN covers Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows but has no browser extensions or smart TV apps.
🛡️ Your Privacy Needs
If you need to hide your IP address and encrypt web traffic, Surfshark’s VPN is far more capable. If you need to monitor your credit file and protect your financial accounts from fraud, Aura is the better fit.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both platforms are beginner-friendly. Surfshark’s app is intuitive for VPN setup. Aura’s dashboard monitors everything automatically with minimal setup needed.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial on mobile apps with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Aura gives you 14 days free without a credit card plus a 60-day money-back guarantee on annual plans.
🛟 Support Options
Surfshark offers 24/7 live chat and email support. Aura provides 24/7 phone and live chat support with U.S.-based fraud resolution specialists who help with identity theft cases.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Surfshark to Aura?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Full identity theft protection with credit monitoring across all three bureaus
- $1 million identity theft insurance per adult member
- Built-in password manager and data broker removal
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 3,200+ server locations and manual server selection
- Kill switch, MultiHop, and advanced VPN protocols
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Surfshark subscription (request refund within 30 days if eligible)
- Sign up for Aura’s 14-day free trial at aura.com
- Enter your personal details for identity monitoring and install the Aura app
🔄 Switching from Aura to Surfshark?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 3,200+ server locations with manual selection and dedicated IP options
- Kill switch, MultiHop, Camouflage Mode, and split tunneling
- Unlimited connections and significant cost savings to save money at $1.99/month
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Identity theft protection and 3-bureau credit monitoring
- $1 million identity theft insurance coverage
- Password manager and parental control features
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Aura subscription (60-day refund window on annual plans)
- Sign up for Surfshark’s 7-day free trial or choose a 2-year plan
- Install the Surfshark app on all your devices and connect to a VPN server
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on VPN features, pricing, and identity protection for individual users and small families. We didn’t test long-term VPN speed consistency over months or evaluate enterprise-level deployment. Aura’s home title monitoring and investment account monitoring were not evaluated in depth. If you’re a business user or need VPN access in highly restricted countries, your experience may differ from what we’ve described here.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Surfshark |
| 🚀 VPN Features | Surfshark |
| ⚡ Speed & Performance | Surfshark |
| 🛡️ Identity Protection | Aura |
| 👶 Ease of Use | Tie |
| 🔌 Device Support | Surfshark |
| 🔒 Credit Monitoring | Aura |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Surfshark |
🏆 WINNER: Surfshark
Surfshark wins 4 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Users who need a dedicated VPN with fast speeds, unlimited device connections, and affordable long-term pricing.
Surfshark and Aura are built for very different users. Surfshark is a full-featured VPN service with advanced privacy tools. Aura is an identity protection platform that happens to include a basic VPN.
Aura is the better choice if your main concern is identity theft, credit fraud, or dark web monitoring. Its $1 million insurance and 3-bureau credit monitoring are features no VPN provider can match.
However, if you need a VPN to protect your internet connection, stream content, or secure multiple devices, Surfshark is the clear winner. It costs far less and delivers far more as a VPN service.
More of Surfshark Compared
Here’s how Surfshark stacks up against other VPN providers like Private Internet Access, Atlas VPN, and more:
Surfshark vs NordVPN
Surfshark wins on: Lower pricing ($1.99 vs $3.09/mo), unlimited device connections, and Alternative ID feature
NordVPN wins on: Larger server network (6,400+ vs 3,200+), faster connection speeds in some regions, and dedicated IP options in more countries
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
Surfshark wins on: Much cheaper long-term plans, unlimited connections vs ExpressVPN’s 8-device limit, and built-in antivirus on One plan
ExpressVPN wins on: Wider streaming platform access, presence in more countries with physical servers, and a longer track record for bypassing geo-blocks
Surfshark vs Proton VPN
Surfshark wins on: Lower paid pricing, more server locations (100 vs 90+ countries), and a built-in Alternative ID tool for anonymous sign-ups
Proton VPN wins on: Free plan with no data limits, Swiss-based privacy jurisdiction outside intelligence alliances, and open-source audited apps
Surfshark vs CyberGhost
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited connections, stronger privacy audits by Deloitte and Cure53, and Dynamic MultiHop for custom double-VPN routing
CyberGhost wins on: Larger total server count, dedicated streaming and gaming servers, and a longer 45-day money-back guarantee
More of Aura Compared
Here’s how Aura stacks up against other digital security services:
Aura vs Identity Guard
Aura wins on: Includes VPN and antivirus in all plans, faster fraud alerts per published benchmarks, and built-in data broker removal
Identity Guard wins on: Lower entry pricing on basic plans, IBM Watson AI-powered threat detection, and longer history in the identity protection space
Aura vs Norton LifeLock
Aura wins on: All plans include 3-bureau monitoring (LifeLock restricts this to top-tier plans), no price hikes after first year, and better-rated parental controls
Norton LifeLock wins on: Stronger standalone antivirus engine, more recognized brand name, and wider range of plan tiers for flexibility
Aura vs McAfee+
Aura wins on: Consistent renewal pricing without steep increases, faster fraud alert times, and integrated password manager with breach alerts
McAfee+ wins on: Stronger antivirus with scheduled scan options, file shredder and firewall included, and wider device compatibility for security scans
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark VPN trustworthy?
Yes. Surfshark’s no-logs policy has been independently audited by Deloitte and Cure53. Surfshark encrypted connections use AES-256 and the WireGuard protocol. It is based in the Netherlands, which has privacy-friendly laws.
Is Aura a good VPN?
Aura’s VPN is decent for basic safe browsing on public Wi-Fi. However, it lacks key features like a kill switch and manual server selection. If you need a dedicated VPN, a service like Surfshark or NordVPN is a better choice.
How much does a Surfshark subscription cost?
The Starter plan costs $1.99/month on a 2-year subscription, $3.19/month annually, or $15.45/month for a single month. Higher tiers like Surfshark One and One+ add antivirus and data removal features at a higher price.
Is it safe to give my SSN to Aura?
Aura uses your SSN for identity monitoring and credit protection. The data is encrypted and protected. Providing your SSN and other sensitive information lets Aura monitor your credit reports and alert you to unauthorized use of your identity.
Can you use Surfshark VPN for free?
Surfshark offers a 7-day free trial on Android and iOS for annual and 2-year plans. There is no permanent free plan. You can also test Surfshark risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee on paid plans.
English 
Spanish 
Chinese 
German 
French 
Arabic 
Russian 
Portuguese 
Japanese 
Korean 
Italian 
Turkish 
Dutch 
Polish 
Indonesian 
Thai 
Vietnamese 