PureVPN vs Surfshark: VPN Comparison in Australia 2024

Last updated: January 5, 2024
William Sams
William Sams
Check out this in-depth PureVPN vs Surfshark VPN comparison for details about which is the better provider in 2024!

PureVPN-Vs-Surfshark-Comparison-in-Australia

Surfshark VPN and PureVPN enjoy high praise from users and critics alike, making them reputable choices. When selecting the best VPN for Australia provider to enhance your browsing experience, it’s essential to consider their features.

Regarding the PureVPN vs Surfshark comparison in Australia, they share similarities regarding user-friendliness, server locations, and customer support. However, Surfshark stands out with superior speed, streaming, and torrenting performance. Additionally, Surfshark is slightly more cost-effective than PureVPN. Therefore, if you prioritize speed, streaming, and cost-efficiency, Surfshark is the preferred option.

Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of PureVPN vs Surfshark based on price, payment methods, UI, speed, unblocking potential, servers, and more.


PureVPN vs Surfshark in Australia: Highlights

Here’s a quick review of the PureVPN vs Surfshark features:

Factors PureVPN Surfshark
Jurisdiction Hong Kong Netherlands
Rating 9.1/10 9.2/10
Current Offer 10.95/month $10.99/month
Subscription Packages Start From AU$ 5.05 /mo (US$ 3.29 /mo ) AU$ 3.82 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee
Money-Back Guarantee 31 days 30 days
Simultaneous Device Connections 10 Unlimited
Platform Compatibility Dedicated apps for all major platforms Dedicated apps for all major platforms
Logging Policy Audited no-logs policy Audited no-logs policy
Servers 6500 servers in 78 countries 3200 servers 100 countries
VPN Protocols Supports WireGuard, L2TP, SSTP, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and IPSec protocols Supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2 protocols
Streaming Unblocks major streaming platforms Unblocks major streaming platforms
Torrenting Supported Supports P2P activities
Customer Support Decent customer support Real-time support available

Features Overview

Both VPNs offer essential features to enhance the online experience, but one of them provides a more substantial improvement compared to the other. Surfshark provides a versatile array of security features, including antivirus protection, while PureVPN offers only a few additional features at an extra cost.


Kill switch

Securing your real IP address is vital not just in highly restricted areas but also when using public Wi-Fi while traveling and in various other scenarios. A kill switch feature is a fundamental component of a trustworthy VPN’s security suite, as it plays a critical role in preventing DNS leaks when a VPN connection unexpectedly disconnects.

PureVPN-kill-switch-feature-on-MacOS

Both Surfshark and PureVPN offer a kill switch feature, but each has its strengths and weaknesses.

Surfshark provides two modes for its kill switch: the soft Surfshark Kill Switch in Australia and the strict one. The soft mode disabled my network connection if the VPN connection dropped, while the strict mode completely blocks internet access until the VPN is reactivated. This choice can be seen as either restrictive or very secure. However, during testing, no notifications were received about the lost connection, making it challenging to detect any issues.

PureVPN’s kill switch is more straightforward and is automatically enabled when you start the application. While it promises standard functionality, it did not perform flawlessly in my tests, as an IP leakage was detected.


Split tunneling

Split tunneling is indeed another crucial feature. It provides a more precise way to manage your VPN traffic by allowing you to exclude specific apps and websites from the VPN’s scope. This feature adds flexibility and control to your online activities.

Surfshark-Split-tunneling-on-Windows

Surfshark provides its Bypasser feature, an in-house split tunneling option, for Windows, Android, and macOS devices. While having split tunneling on iOS would be a nice addition, the overall functionality of this feature is reliable and trustworthy.

PureVPN-Split-tunneling-feature

PureVPN is more limited in platform support for split tunneling, offering this feature exclusively to Windows and Android users within the app.


Obfuscation

Obfuscation features and servers are valuable when you conceal your VPN connection, making it appear that you’re browsing without any VPN trace.

Both Surfshark and PureVPN offered me these features within their apps. However, PureVPN enhances its obfuscation feature by incorporating domain fronting, which uses distinct domain names from other parts of the website. This tactic makes it seem like you’ve arrived from a different domain, making it easier to bypass content restrictions.

Surfshark, conversely, offers Camouflage Mode, a reliable obfuscation feature that works well, especially in heavily censored locations where VPN usage is prohibited.


Dedicated IP

Surfshark and PureVPN provided dedicated IP solutions as optional add-ons to my VPN subscription, offering advantages such as reduced chances of getting blocked by streaming services or gambling sites and easier connections to work and school networks.

Surfshark offers dedicated IPs in six locations, although availability may vary. Due to a limited number of dedicated IP addresses, some locations may not always be accessible. You can add a Surfshark dedicated IP to your regular subscription or Surfshark One for $3.99 per month.

PureVPN, on the other hand, offers dedicated IPs in seven locations, one more than Surfshark. It also comes at a lower price, with the option to add a PureVPN dedicated IP to your subscription for just $2.99 per month. While the difference of $0.76 may seem small, it can add up over time.


Port forwarding

If your VPN usage is focused on torrenting or gaming, port forwarding becomes a crucial consideration. This feature facilitates access to devices behind a firewall from remote gadgets and servers.

It’s worth noting that port forwarding is exclusively available with PureVPN, although it comes at an additional cost of $0.49 per month on top of your subscription. This feature does require some technical knowledge for proper configuration.

However, once set up, it is a valuable tool, enabling remote access to your devices, hosting game servers, facilitating file transfers, utilizing torrent applications, and more.


Antivirus

The VPN market continually evolves, with providers exploring innovative ways to enhance their services. Surfshark is one such example, as it has integrated an antivirus system into its application, offering users added security and convenience.

Surfshark-AntiVirus-feature

While Surfshark’s antivirus system may not be as extensive as some leading standalone antivirus programs, it still provided me with a comprehensive security suite for robust protection. It includes customizable device scanning, real-time protection, and data breach monitoring.

On the other hand, PureVPN offered an additional ID protection bundle known as PurePrivacy. This bundle not only scans my social media accounts but also monitors for data breaches and enhances your overall online privacy.


PureVPN vs Surfshark: Pricing and Discounts

Pricing may seem straightforward, but when selecting a VPN, it’s essential to assess the quality and price ratio. Simply opting for a lower price doesn’t necessarily guarantee a better deal.

I had a hard time comparing Surfshark and PureVPN prices, but here’s a quick look at each VPN’s current offers:

PureVPN Surfshark
Monthly $10.95/month $10.99/month
One year $3.24/month $3.99/month
Two years $2.08/month $1.99/month

Starting with the shortest subscription term, PureVPN is priced at $2.08 per month, slightly lower than Surfshark Pricing in Australia. However, remember that longer subscription periods come with reduced costs, and both offer a money-back guarantee.

If you’re considering a monthly plan, it may indicate some uncertainty about your commitment. Nonetheless, greater online freedom with unlimited connections and Surfshark’s comprehensive security suite, including antivirus, can ultimately be a more cost-effective choice.

Surfshark provides more flexible subscription options, including monthly, one-year, and two-year plans, offering less commitment. Meanwhile, PureVPN offers monthly, one-year, and two-year plans. You may also cancel Surfshark in Australia anytime you want.

In terms of payment methods, Surfshark offers a wide range, including credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, Apple Pay, and cryptocurrencies. PureVPN, on the other hand, has a more limited selection, featuring only credit cards and PayPal. Both VPNs offer a money-back guarantee, with PureVPN extending it by one day for a 31-day money-back guarantee, moreover, you can cancel PureVPN in Australia whenever you want.

Winner: Surfshark

PureVPN vs Surfshark : Payment Methods

Payment Method PureVPN Surfshark
Credit Card Yes Yes
Debit Card Yes Yes
PayPal Yes Yes
Alipay Yes Yes
BlueSnap Yes No
iDeal No Yes
Bitcoin Yes Yes
Amazon Pay Yes Yes
Google Pay Yes Yes
Mastercard Yes Yes
American Express Yes Yes

PureVPN and Surfshark VPN accept common modes of payment. While testing, I observed that both the VPN services are open to most payment methods. However, Surfshark still exceeded this category as you can also get aSurfshark free trial in Australia.

Winner: Surfshark

PureVPN vs Surfshark: Netflix and streaming performance in Australia

Surfshark and PureVPN successfully unblock Netflix, as well as several other streaming platforms listed below.

PureVPN Surfshark
Netflix
Youtube
HBO Max
Amazon Prime
BBC iPlayer

In the context of unblocking, Surfshark and PureVPN follow different paths. Surfshark effortlessly unblocks multiple global libraries, including Surfshark Netflix in the US, UK, Australia, and Germany, offering full HD streaming. In contrast, PureVPN has more limited success, only unblocking the PureVPN Netflix in the US and Japan during my tests. However, video quality remained consistent, with no significant speed drops or buffering.

When it comes to other streaming sites, Surfshark continues to outshine PureVPN. While both VPNs unblock platforms like BBC iPlayer and YouTube, Surfshark provides access to additional streaming services, including Disney+ and HBO Max.

Fortunately, both VPNs employ the WireGuard tunneling protocol, minimizing the occurrence of slow speeds or lags during your streaming sessions as long as you have a stable internet connection.

Winner: Surfshark

PureVPN vs Surfshark: Torrenting

Fortunately, you can choose Surfshark or PureVPN to carry out torrenting because both VPNs are based in user-friendly jurisdictions. Fast torrenting depends on the connection speeds offered by a VPN. Below is the comparison:

PureVPN Surfshark
Port Forwarding Yes No
Free SOCKS5 Proxy Yes Yes
Split Tunneling Yes Yes

In my experience, Surfshark and PureVPN are suitable for torrenting, as they support P2P connections, optimizing their services for faster downloads.

Surfshark offers the flexibility of using a P2P connection on any of its servers, and selecting from a Surfshark server list closer to you can lead to improved download speeds. However, it does not support Port Forwarding.

Wondering, Does PureVPN allow torrenting in Australia? PureVPN has some limitations, permitting P2P connections only on servers in countries where P2P is legally allowed. You can also utilize the PureVPN free trial in Australia to test it yourself.

Winner: PureVPN

PureVPN vs Surfshark: Setup and Interface

Surfshark and PureVPN share remarkable similarities in terms of device compatibility. Both offered me apps for major desktop and mobile operating systems, comprehensive browser extensions, and additional software for various home entertainment systems.

However, a few crucial distinctions may influence potential buyers’ decisions. As illustrated in my table below, Surfshark allows for an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, whereas PureVPN limits it to 10 per subscription. This significant difference gives Surfshark the edge in this category.

Conversely, PureVPN provided me with a DD-WRT router applet, which Surfshark lacks. While it’s a valuable addition, it may not be a game-changer, as both VPNs are compatible with routers using OpenVPN configuration files.

PureVPN Surfshark
Supported Operating Systems Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
Other software & devices Kodi, Amazon Fire Stick, Android TV, etc. Android TVs, Fire devices, etc.
Browser Extensions Chrome, Firefox, Edge Chrome, Firefox
Simultaneous connections 10 devices Unlimited
Mobile Friendly Easy to use Easy to use

The ease of use for both Surfshark and PureVPN is notable. Their apps are user-friendly, featuring intuitive navigation and self-explanatory features. They come well-configured by default, eliminating the need for complex setups. Additionally, making adjustments is hassle-free, as all settings are easily accessible, regardless of your operating system.

Winner: Surfshark


Desktop apps

Desktop applications tend to be the most feature-rich and aesthetically pleasing, and this holds for both Surfshark and PureVPN, particularly on their Windows apps.

Surfshark, however, is an exceptional application with a visually appealing design and user-friendly interface. PureVPN, on the other hand, offers a simpler-looking application, but it doesn’t compromise on functionality.

Transitioning to macOS, Surfshark adopts a unique approach with two different versions, one available for download from Surfshark’s website and another from the Apple App Store. However, both applications lack certain features, including split tunneling.

Surfshark-Windows-app-interface

PureVPN’s macOS app offers a more consistent experience, closely resembling the Windows application, with the only notable difference being the absence of ping information displayed next to each server.

PureVPN-MacOS-interface

While Linux users often find themselves limited to the Command Line Interface, PureVPN also follows this trend. In contrast, Surfshark takes a different approach by introducing a dedicated Linux application with a user-friendly graphical interface and a comprehensive set of features, bringing innovation to the VPN market.

Surfshark-Linux-interface

Introducing a dedicated Surfshark app for Linux devices sets a motivational precedent for the entire VPN market.

Mobile apps

Surfshark has seamlessly translated its Windows app into the Android application. You can set up Surfshark on Android in Australia, maintaining all available features, a smooth design, and user-friendliness. Similarly, PureVPN offers an impressive Android application with additional features like various server modes and network type selection.

Surfshark-Android-app-interface

Regarding iOS applications, Surfshark maintains similarity to its Android counterpart, with some features excluded (GPS spoofing and Whitelister). On the other hand, PureVPN on iOS resembles the Windows version more than the Android app, offering a user-friendly experience but lacking some additional features available to Android users.


PureVPN vs Surfshark : Servers

Both VPNs boast extensive server location coverage. PureVPN operates a network of over 6,500 servers in 65 countries, while Surfshark offers 3,200 servers in 100 locations. One provider offers a larger server fleet, while the other excels in broader location coverage.

PureVPN Surfshark
Server Countries 78 100
Server count 65 100
Virtual locations Yes Yes
Specialty servers Yes Yes

However, both providers also have virtual servers. Meaning, that their actual location is different from the IP address. Consequently, the connection speed might be slower than when choosing a physical server.

Choosing between Surfshark and PureVPN ensures access to a robust server fleet distributed across the globe, providing reliable connections and unblocking capabilities. Hence, it is a draw between the two in this regard.

Winner: Tie

PureVPN vs Surfshark : Speed Test

Surfshark stands out as one of the fastest VPNs in the market thanks to its utilization of the WireGuard tunneling protocol. However, PureVPN also incorporates the speedy WireGuard protocol, making their connection speeds comparable.

With WireGuard, Surfshark achieves impressive download speeds of approximately 523 Mbps and upload speeds averaging around 463 Mbps. On the other hand, PureVPN delivers download speeds of 194 Mbps and slightly higher upload speeds at 329 Mbps. Nevertheless, Surfshark VPN consistently outperformed PureVPN in our tests.

For a detailed breakdown of upload and download speeds, please refer to the table below. Keep in mind that Surfshark VPN utilizes WireGuard, while PureVPN employs OpenVPN.

Download retention PureVPN Surfshark
US (NY) 24% 52%
United Kingdom 13% 43%
France 42% 97%
Singapore 23% 63%
Australia 23% 87%
Upload retention PureVPN Surfshark
US (NY) 35% 49%
United Kingdom 31% 36%
France 73% 90%
Singapore 40% 57%
Australia 47% 72%

With the WireGuard protocol, Surfshark outperforms PureVPN significantly in all five locations. Zooming in on the results, the most notable difference is observed in the UK. In download speeds, Surfshark performs seven times better than PureVPN speed test in Australia, and in upload speeds, it is nearly three times faster.

However, when examining additional tunneling protocol speed tests, the scenario changes as both VPNs demonstrate more similar performance:

OpenVPN UDP PureVPN Surfshark
Download avg 143 Mbps 121.2 Mbps
Upload avg 142 Mbps 140.3 Mbps

It’s fascinating to see how changing the tunneling protocol can impact the performance dynamics. In this instance, PureVPN excels in download speeds while maintaining relatively consistent upload speeds.

OpenVPN TCP PureVPN Surfshark
Download avg 37 Mbps 25.8 Mbps
Upload avg 14 Mbps 28 Mbps

Both Surfshark and PureVPN experience a decrease in performance with OpenVPN TCP. This protocol is generally favored for its stability over speed when compared to OpenVPN UDP, so the results are expected and not a cause for concern.

Winner: Surfshark

PureVPN vs Surfshark : Security

Both Surfshark and PureVPN are considered among the most secure VPNs available. These providers prioritized my data security with advanced features, audited applications, and a strong commitment. Some of their security choices, such as encryption and tunneling protocols, are similar, contributing to their reputation for providing comprehensive security.

PureVPN Surfshark
Encryption AES-256-GCM AES-256-GCM and Chacha20Poly1305
Hash SHA-384 SHA-512
RAM servers No Available
A member of the 5-Eyes, 9-Eyes Alliance? No Available
No-logs policy Audited Audited
Kill switch Available Available
DNS leak protection Yes (for additional cost) Yes

Wondering is Surfshark safe? Based on my analysis, Surfshark VPN is an all-encompassing provider that offers a next-generation suite of protection, making it the superior choice for ensuring robust online security.

Winner: Surfshark

Encryption and Protocols

At this stage, Surfshark and PureVPN share common ground regarding encryption and tunneling protocols. Both providers utilize industry-leading AES-256 encryption, making it extremely challenging for unauthorized parties to decrypt your data.

They also offer the WireGuard tunneling protocol, which is highly regarded in the VPN industry for maintaining internet speed without compromising security.

Surfshark provides three additional tunneling protocols: OpenVPN (TCP/UDP), popular for its stability and speed, and IKEv2, known for its compatibility with mobile devices and resilience on unstable connections.

PureVPN offers two more protocols on top of the ones mentioned earlier: SSTP, which is useful for bypassing restrictions in China, and L2TP/IPSec. This older protocol may not be as secure as the others on the list. While the list may appear more extensive, the practical utility of these additional protocols varies.

Infrastructure

Many VPNs, including PureVPN, typically store activity logs on hard drives, potentially leaving your data accessible for some time. While PureVPN is privacy-focused, Surfshark takes a more advanced approach.

Surfshark is one of the few VPNs that have transitioned to running servers exclusively on RAM. This innovative practice ensures no hard drives where your logs could be stored. Additionally, RAM-only servers are less susceptible to breaches, as data is wiped out whenever servers reload.

Privacy

Surfshark operates from the Netherlands, part of the Nine Eyes intelligence alliance. This alliance allows for the sharing of sensitive information among member countries in emergencies. However, it’s essential to note that Surfshark, like many reputable VPNs, doesn’t collect user data, so there is no data to share with third parties.

PureVPN, on the other hand, has relocated its jurisdiction to the British Virgin Islands, a location known for its privacy-friendly environment. This move ensures that your activity logs will not be collected or shared with any third party.

Regarding location and privacy, PureVPN’s British Virgin Islands base may be considered a more privacy-friendly choice, although Surfshark’s no-logs policy still ensures robust user privacy.

Logging

PureVPN has faced privacy concerns when it provided information to the FBI to assist in the arrest of a cyberstalker. While the intention behind this act may be understood, it raised questions about user privacy. However, PureVPN has enhanced its transparency and security by implementing an always-on audit, allowing external audits without prior notice to ensure no security or privacy gaps exist.

In contrast, Surfshark has a spotless history with no security breaches or privacy violations. The VPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy, which was audited by Deloitte and has undergone two independent security audits by Cure53 penetration testers. These audits encompassed browser extensions, the application, and the infrastructure, with no flaws identified, resulting in a positive assessment of Surfshark’s security and privacy measures.

While PureVPN’s jurisdiction may be considered more privacy-friendly, Surfshark’s transparent and audited practices make it a reliable choice for those seeking maximum anonymity online.


PureVPN vs Surfshark : Customer Support

For users like me with limited technical knowledge, the most straightforward support option is to utilize live chat support. Surfshark and PureVPN offer 24/7 live chat support, ensuring that your issues can be promptly addressed at any time of the day or night. This accessible and efficient support channel can assist in minutes.

PureVPN Surfshark
24/7 Live Chat Yes Yes
FAQs Yes Yes
Email Support Yes Yes
Guides or articles 39 Minutes 1 Hour
Helpline Yes Yes

Both Surfshark and PureVPN offer email ticket support as an additional way to seek assistance, which can be useful for users looking for a more thorough investigation of their issue, even though it may take longer than live chat support.

Furthermore, both VPNs provide comprehensive customer support pages, extensive guides, and FAQs, which serve as valuable resources for users seeking quick answers and solutions to common queries. These resources are particularly helpful for tech-savvy users.

In summary, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, both PureVPN and Surfshark offer a wide range of customer support options, making it easy to address any issues or questions that may arise. I result in this category a draw, as both VPNs excel in providing support to their users.

Winner: Tie

Surfshark vs PureVPN in Australia – which one wins?

While the competition was closely contested at times, Surfshark ultimately emerged as the winner for me in this comparison.

PureVPN Surfshark
Speed
Features
Privacy
Streaming
Torrenting
Price
Server locations
Ease of use
Customer support

For more info, read out my Surfshark Review Australia

Winner: Surfshark

Other VPN Comparisons Guides in Australia


PureVPN vs Surfshark in Australia: FAQs

Surfshark takes the lead by offering a wider range of additional features compared to PureVPN in Australia. While both VPNs include obfuscation and split-tunneling, Surfshark goes the extra mile with features like an ad blocker, double VPN, and smart DNS, giving it a distinct advantage.

PureVPN and Surfshark share similarities in user-friendliness, server coverage, and customer support. However, Surfshark surpasses PureVPN in speed, streaming capabilities, and torrenting performance. Additionally, Surfshark tends to be slightly more cost-effective than PureVPN in Australia.

PureVPN and Surfshark provide various subscription plans, including monthly, 1-year, and 2-year options, with discounts for longer commitments. PureVPN tends to be slightly more budget-friendly compared to Surfshark, making it a cost-effective choice between the two.

No, Surfshark is not illegal in Australia. However, illegal acts are still considered illegal even when conducted over a VPN connection.

Yes, Surfshark efficiently works with Netflix in Australia. You can binge-watch your favorite Netflix series on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, or smart TV. If you prefer streaming Netflix on a browser, use the Chrome or Firefox extensions for Surfshark.

The US – New York server is the fastest Surfshark server because it ensures a blazing-fast download speed of 83.27 Mbps and a 65.59 Mbps upload speed with a 251 ms ping.

Yes, PureVPN supports P2P activities on its P2P-optimized network. Whenever you download or send files over a P2P network server, they are encrypted using the highest-grade AES 256-bit encryption in Australia.

Follow these simple steps to use PureVPN with Linux:

  1. Open the command prompt and enter the command purevpn -location OR purevpn -l.
  2. Connect to any country with the command purevpn -connect “Country Name” OR purevpn -c “Country Name”.
  3. Check your connection by using the command purevpn -status OR purevpn -s.


Wrapping Up

As for the PureVPN vs Surfshark in Australia comparison, Surfshark is the winner due to its superior speed, streaming, and torrenting performance. Both VPNs offer ease of use, server locations, and customer support options, but Surfshark outperforms PureVPN in several key areas. Additionally, Surfshark tends to be slightly more cost-effective.

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