⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Surfshark starts at $1.99/mo (2-year plan) vs Malwarebytes VPN at $59.99/yr for the Plus bundle (antivirus + VPN)
- Best for: Surfshark for unlimited devices and streaming, Malwarebytes for users who already use its antivirus software
- Key difference: Surfshark offers 3,200+ servers in 100 countries with unlimited connections. Malwarebytes has 500+ servers in 40+ countries with per-device pricing.
- Our pick: Surfshark for most users — it covers more devices, more locations, and costs less per month
Surfshark and Malwarebytes VPN target very different buyers.
One is a dedicated VPN service with global reach.
The other is an antivirus company that added a VPN to its bundle.
That difference shapes everything about how they perform.
This comparison breaks down pricing, features, and speed so you can pick the right one.
Overview
This SurfsharkVPN vs Malwarebytes VPN comparison covers pricing, server locations, and privacy features.
We also look at device support, streaming, and ease of use.
Our sources include published specs, official documentation, and user reviews.
By the end, you’ll know which VPN service fits your needs.
What is Surfshark?
Surfshark is a VPN company based in the Netherlands.
It encrypts your internet connection and hides your real ip address.
The Surfshark app works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.
It also includes browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
Surfshark’s servers span 100 countries. Most users choose it for unlimited simultaneous connections on all your devices.
Surfshark
Surfshark offers unlimited device connections with 3,200+ VPN servers in 100 countries. Plans start at $1.99/mo with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark Pricing
Surfshark pricing depends on how long you commit. Longer plans save you more money.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 24 Months + 3 Extra | $1.99/month | Long-term users who want the best deal |
| 12 Months + 3 Extra | $3.19/month | Users who want annual savings |
| 1 Month | $15.45/month | Short-term or trial users |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: 7-day free trial on Android and iOS. No credit card needed for the mobile apps.
Money-back guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. Contact support for a full refund.
📌 Note: The 2-year plan is the best value at $1.99/mo. Surfshark offers three tiers — Starter, One, and One+ — with extra features like antivirus and data breach alerts at higher prices. Surfshark pricing is competitive compared to other vpns. Google Pay is accepted for payment on the android app.
⚠️ Warning: Surfshark pricing increases after the first subscription term. Check renewal rates before signing up. Students can get 15% off through Student Beans.
Key Benefits of Surfshark
Here’s what makes Surfshark worth considering:
- Unlimited Devices: Connect every device in your household with one subscription. No caps on simultaneous connections.
- Global Server Network: Access 3,200+ servers across 100 countries for fast VPN connections anywhere.
- Audited No-Logs Policy: Deloitte and Cure53 independently confirmed that Surfshark keeps no browsing history or network traffic logs.
- CleanWeb Ad Blocker: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware while browsing. Built into the Surfshark app.
- MultiHop Connections: Route your VPN traffic through two servers for extra privacy. Dynamic MultiHop lets you pick custom server pairs.
- Alternative ID: Create a fake online identity for sign-ups. Protects your real email and personal info.
- Streaming Access: Works with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and other popular platforms without connection issues.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Surfshark and spent several days using it on multiple devices. Here’s what stood out:
Surfshark Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on all your devices
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries for fast download speeds
- Independently audited no-logs policy by Deloitte
- CleanWeb blocks ads and malware while connected
- Works with major streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+
❌ Cons
- Monthly plan is expensive at $15.45/month
- Prices increase after the first subscription term
- Based in the Netherlands, part of Nine Eyes alliance
- Connection times can vary on some servers
What is Malwarebytes VPN?
Malwarebytes is an antivirus software company based in the United States.
Its Privacy VPN is a separate product that encrypts your internet connection.
The windows app, desktop app, and mobile apps support Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Malwarebytes VPN runs on AzireVPN infrastructure acquired in late 2024.
Most users pick it because they already use Malwarebytes antivirus and want to protect their windows devices.
Malwarebytes VPN
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN uses WireGuard protocol with AES-256 encryption. Bundle it with antivirus starting at $59.99/yr with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Malwarebytes VPN Pricing
Malwarebytes bundles its VPN with antivirus protection. Here’s the breakdown.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (Antivirus Only) | $59.99/year | Users who only need malware protection |
| Plus (Antivirus + VPN) | $79.98/year | Users who want VPN bundled with antivirus |
| Total (Security + VPN + Identity) | $89.99/year | Users who want full identity protection |
Pricing verified May 2026.
Free trial: 7-day free trial available. No free version of the VPN exists.
Money-back guarantee: 60-day money-back guarantee on all Malwarebytes products. Contact support for refunds.
📌 Note: The Standard plan does not include VPN access. You need the Plus plan or higher to get Malwarebytes Privacy VPN. The Plus covers 3 devices for antivirus and VPN.
⚠️ Warning: Malwarebytes charges VAT in some countries, adding up to 20% to the total price. Renewal prices can also increase. The company does not accept cryptocurrency for payment. Malwarebytes products are priced per one device on the base plan. If you have issues downloading, check that your operating system meets minimum requirements — macos Catalina 10.15.4 or higher for Mac.
Key Benefits of Malwarebytes VPN
Here’s what makes Malwarebytes VPN worth considering:
- Antivirus Bundle: Get malware protection and VPN in one subscription. Fewer apps to manage and pay for.
- WireGuard Protocol: Uses the fast WireGuard VPN protocol for better download speeds than older protocols.
- No-Logs Policy: Malwarebytes states it does not track, store, or share network traffic, bandwidth usage, or DNS requests.
- Kill Switch: Blocks all network traffic if the VPN connection drops, keeping your real IP address hidden.
- Simple Interface: The windows app and ios app are easy to navigate. The auto connect and auto launch features start the VPN with your device.
- 60-Day Guarantee: Twice the refund window compared to most VPN providers. Lower risk to try it.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer installed Malwarebytes and tested its Privacy VPN on a Windows laptop and an Android phone. Here’s what stood out:
Malwarebytes VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Bundles antivirus and VPN in one subscription
- 60-day money-back guarantee is longer than most VPNs
- Simple, beginner-friendly interface on desktop and mobile
- Uses fast WireGuard protocol for VPN connections
❌ Cons
- Limited to 500+ servers across 40+ countries
- No support for Linux, routers, or gaming consoles
- Struggles to unblock streaming platforms like Hulu and Disney+
- Based in the US, a Five Eyes alliance member
- No independent third-party audits of its no-logs policy
- Cannot download torrents or use smart DNS for content access
Feature Comparison
Let’s compare Surfshark and Malwarebytes VPN across 10 key features. This breakdown covers everything from server count to privacy tools.
| Feature | Surfshark | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $1.99/month | $79.98/year (Plus) |
| Free Plan | ❌ (7-day mobile trial) | ❌ (7-day trial) |
| Server Count | 3,200+ in 100 countries | 500+ in 40+ countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | ✅ Unlimited | 3-5 devices (plan-based) |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ (Windows only) |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ |
| No-Logs Audit | ✅ Deloitte + Cure53 | ❌ No audit |
| Streaming Support | ✅ Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ | ❌ Limited |
| Antivirus Bundle | Optional (One plan) | ✅ Included |
| Best For | Multi-device households | Existing Malwarebytes users |
1. Server Network & Locations
Surfshark: Surfshark operates 3,200+ VPN servers spread across 100 countries. This gives you access to server locations on every continent. More Surfshark servers means less crowding and faster download speeds during peak hours. Users on the same ip address share bandwidth, but the large network keeps speeds high.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes runs 500+ worldwide servers in 40+ countries. The network is smaller, which limits your options for nearby connections. If you need a VPN server in a specific region, Surfshark covers more ground.
2. Device Connections
Surfshark: Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections. One subscription covers your phone, laptop, tablet, Apple TV, and every other device. No need to count how many devices are connected.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes limits connections based on your plan. The Plus plan covers 3 devices. If you need more, the price goes up with each device added. For households with multiple devices, this adds up quickly.
⚠️ Warning: If you have more than 3 windows devices, phones, and tablets, Malwarebytes VPN will cost significantly more than Surfshark per year.
3. Privacy & Encryption
Surfshark: Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption and has a strict no-logs policy. Both Deloitte and Cure53 have independently audited these claims. Surfshark’s privacy policy states it does not log browsing history, IP addresses, or network traffic.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes also uses AES-256 encryption with the WireGuard protocol. It claims a no-logs policy, but no third-party audits have verified this. The company is based in the US, which is a Five Eyes alliance member. That raises some online privacy concerns for certain users.
4. Speed & Performance
Surfshark: Speed tests show Surfshark is among the faster VPN services, especially on the WireGuard protocol. The large server network helps maintain good download speeds by spreading users across multiple servers.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes VPN can reduce speeds by around 33% on nearby servers and up to 62% on distant ones, according to published tests. It also uses WireGuard, but the smaller server network creates more congestion.
5. Streaming & Content Access
Surfshark: Surfshark can unblock popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ without issues. G2 reviews highlight its ability to maintain buffer-free streaming on multiple devices at the same time.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes VPN struggles with streaming. Published reviews report it fails to unblock Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. It lacks dedicated streaming servers, so accessing geo-restricted content is unreliable.
6. Kill Switch & Security Features
Surfshark: Surfshark includes a kill switch on all platforms. If the VPN connection drops, it blocks all internet traffic to keep your real IP address hidden. The split tunneling feature lets you route certain apps outside the VPN tunnel.
Malwarebytes VPN: The kill switch works on Windows devices but is not available on all platforms. Split tunneling (called Connection Rules) lets you bypass the VPN for certain apps. The feature set is more basic than what Surfshark offers.
7. Platform & Device Support
Surfshark: The Surfshark app runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, and gaming consoles via router setup. Browser extensions are available for Chrome and Firefox. Apple TV support is also included.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes supports Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android only. There is no Linux app, no router support, and no browser extensions. If you want a VPN on gaming consoles or smart TVs, this is a deal-breaker.
8. Advanced Privacy Tools
Surfshark: Surfshark includes Alternative ID for creating fake identities, Camouflage Mode to hide VPN traffic, and an IP rotator that changes your IP address at set intervals. Surfshark encrypted connections also support obfuscated servers for use in restrictive networks. These tools go beyond standard VPN features.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes offers Browser Guard as a separate download for blocking web threats. However, the VPN itself lacks advanced tools like obfuscated servers, a dedicated IP address, or an ad and malware blocker built into the VPN app. Malwarebytes servers do not support same server IP sharing or virtual servers.
9. VPN Protocols
Surfshark: Surfshark supports WireGuard, OpenVPN (UDP and TCP), and IKEv2. You can switch between VPN protocols based on your needs — WireGuard for speed, OpenVPN protocol for compatibility.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes only offers WireGuard. There is no option to switch to OpenVPN or other protocols. This limits flexibility if WireGuard is blocked in your country or network.
10. Pricing & Cost
| Plan | Surfshark | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest VPN Option | $1.99/mo (2-year plan) | $79.98/yr Plus (~$6.67/mo) |
| Annual Plan | $3.19/mo (12-month) | $79.98/yr Plus (~$6.67/mo) |
| Monthly Plan | $15.45/month | Annual billing only |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 days | 60 days |
| Free Trial | 7 days (mobile) | 7 days |
Surfshark: At $1.99/month on the 2-year plan, Surfshark is significantly cheaper for VPN-only use. It covers unlimited devices, so the per-device cost drops with every gadget you add. The monthly plan at $15.45 is pricey, but long-term subscribers save big.
Malwarebytes VPN: The Plus plan at $79.98/year bundles antivirus with VPN for 3 devices. That works out to about $6.67/month. If you already need antivirus software, the bundle makes sense. But if you only want a VPN, Surfshark delivers more for less.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | Surfshark | $1.99/mo vs $6.67/mo |
| Unlimited devices | Surfshark | No device cap at all |
| Antivirus + VPN bundle | Malwarebytes | One subscription covers both |
| Streaming Netflix/Hulu | Surfshark | Works with major platforms |
| Beginner-friendly setup | Malwarebytes | Simpler app with fewer options |
| Maximum privacy | Surfshark | Audited no-logs policy |
💰 Your Budget
Surfshark costs $1.99/month on a 2-year commitment. Malwarebytes Plus costs about $6.67/month for antivirus plus VPN. If you only need a VPN, Surfshark saves you more per year.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Surfshark works on Linux, routers, and smart TVs. Malwarebytes only covers Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. If you use a router or gaming console for VPN, Surfshark is your only option here.
📝 Your Use Case
Need to stream geo-restricted content? Pick Surfshark. Already paying for Malwarebytes antivirus and just want basic VPN protection? The Plus bundle keeps things simple.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Malwarebytes has a simpler interface with fewer settings. Surfshark has more features but remains easy to install and use. Both work for beginners, but Surfshark gives power users more control.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Both VPN services offer a 7-day free trial period. Surfshark adds a 30-day money-back guarantee. Malwarebytes gives you a longer 60-day guarantee. Try both before you commit.
🛟 Support Options
Surfshark offers 24/7 live chat and email support. Malwarebytes provides a support ticket system with generally quick responses. Both have knowledge bases and setup guides.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Surfshark to Malwarebytes VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Built-in antivirus protection alongside your VPN
- Longer 60-day money-back guarantee window
- Simpler interface with fewer settings to configure
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Unlimited device connections (Malwarebytes caps at 3-5)
- Access to 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- Streaming support for Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Surfshark subscription before renewal
- Sign up for Malwarebytes Plus at malwarebytes.com
- Download the Malwarebytes app and enable Privacy VPN
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes VPN to Surfshark?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited connections for all your devices
- 6x more server locations across 100 countries
- Reliable streaming access and advanced features like Alternative ID
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Bundled antivirus protection (you’ll need a separate tool)
- The longer 60-day refund window
- One-app malware and VPN management
📋 How to switch:
- Turn off auto-renewal in your Malwarebytes account
- Sign up for Surfshark at surfshark.com
- Install Surfshark on all your devices and connect
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on individual users and small households. We didn’t test enterprise-level features, bulk licensing, or VPN configuration on corporate networks. Our observations are based on May 2026 versions — features and pricing may change. If you need a virtual private network for specific countries with heavy censorship, your results may differ. We also did not cover virtual servers, static ip addresses, or dedicated ip address performance in depth.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Surfshark |
| 🌐 Server Network | Surfshark |
| 📱 Device Support | Surfshark |
| 🔒 Privacy & Audits | Surfshark |
| 📺 Streaming | Surfshark |
| ⚡ Speed | Surfshark |
| 🛡️ Antivirus Bundle | Malwarebytes |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Surfshark |
🏆 WINNER: Surfshark
Surfshark wins 6 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Multi-device households, streaming fans, and privacy-focused users who want an audited no-logs VPN provider
Surfshark and Malwarebytes VPN serve different purposes. Surfshark is a full-featured VPN service with global coverage, unlimited connections, and strong streaming support.
Malwarebytes VPN works best as an add-on for existing antivirus users. It covers the basics but falls short on server count, device compatibility, and streaming access.
If you already pay for Malwarebytes antivirus, the Plus bundle is a convenient way to add basic VPN protection. But if you need a dedicated, full-featured VPN, Surfshark is the better choice at a lower price.
More of Surfshark Compared
Here’s how Surfshark stacks up against other VPN providers:
Surfshark vs NordVPN
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, lower 2-year price, Alternative ID feature
NordVPN wins on: Larger server network (6,400+ servers), faster speeds on some locations, Threat Protection built-in
Surfshark vs ExpressVPN
Surfshark wins on: Much cheaper pricing, unlimited connections, CleanWeb ad blocker included
ExpressVPN wins on: Wider router compatibility, TrustedServer RAM-only servers, better performance in China
Surfshark vs CyberGhost
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited device connections, smaller monthly cost, Camouflage Mode for traffic obfuscation
CyberGhost wins on: Dedicated streaming and torrenting servers, 45-day money-back guarantee, larger server network (9,000+)
Surfshark vs Proton VPN
Surfshark wins on: More server locations (100 vs 70+ countries), lower starting price, Alternative ID privacy tool
Proton VPN wins on: Free plan available, Swiss jurisdiction, open-source apps with full code audits
More of Malwarebytes VPN Compared
Here’s how Malwarebytes VPN stacks up against other VPN services:
Malwarebytes VPN vs NordVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Bundled antivirus protection, simpler interface, 60-day refund window
NordVPN wins on: 6,400+ servers in 111 countries, independent audit history, streaming and torrenting support
Malwarebytes VPN vs Private Internet Access
Malwarebytes wins on: Built-in malware scanner, easier setup for non-technical users, combined security dashboard
PIA wins on: Open-source VPN apps, dedicated IP address option, Linux and router support
Malwarebytes VPN vs McAfee VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: WireGuard protocol for faster speeds, more transparent no-logs claims, lighter system footprint
McAfee wins on: Unlimited device connections, wider platform support, identity monitoring built-in
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark VPN trustworthy?
Yes. Surfshark has passed independent audits by both Deloitte and Cure53. These audits confirmed its no-logs policy and security practices. The company is based in the Netherlands and uses AES-256 encryption.
Is Malwarebytes Privacy VPN good?
It works for basic browsing and online privacy. However, it has a small server network and limited streaming support. Any privacy VPN review will note it lacks third party audits. If you need a VPN for more than simple browsing, a dedicated VPN provider like Surfshark is a better fit.
How much does a Surfshark subscription cost?
The cheapest plan is $1.99/month on a 2-year commitment. The annual plan costs $3.19/month. A single month costs $15.45. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Does Malwarebytes VPN work on Netflix?
Results are inconsistent. Published reviews show that the service struggles to unblock many streaming platforms. It lacks dedicated streaming servers, so access to geo-restricted content is not reliable.
Can you use Surfshark VPN for free?
There is no permanent free plan. However, a 7-day free trial is available on the Android app and iOS app. You can also use the 30-day money-back guarantee to try it risk-free on any platform.
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