SurfEasy

When choosing a VPN, how much is too much? Not every VPN user needs tons of fancy features and adjustable options. Sometimes, you want a clean, easy-to-use VPN that reliably covers the basics.

SurfEasy isn’t packed with extras, but it does do some things quite well. Let’s take a closer look with your complete SurfEasy VPN review, which starts right now:

What is SurfEasy?

SurfEasy is a Canadian-based company. Formerly owned by Opera Software, they’ve been owned by NortonLifeLock since 2017. (In fact, much of their website redirects to NortonLifeLock.)

SurfEasy doesn’t seem particularly concerned with cultivating an image for themselves. Instead, they seem strictly focused on delivering reliable, if somewhat simple, VPN service.

Jurisdiction

SurfEasy is a Canadian-based company, and that’s not so great for VPNs. Canada privacy laws is not so strict as in other privacy-friendly jurisdictions.

However, SurfEasy has minimal logging. Even if, for some reason, their usage records become available to 3rd party, there are would be practically no data. Additionally, SurfEasy CEO Chris Houston is a well-known privacy advocate.

While Canada isn’t our first choice for privacy, there’s little reason for concern with the privacy practices of SurfEasy.

What Devices Does SurfEasy Support?

SurfEasy provides support for most major platforms:

• Windows
• Mac
• iOS
• Android

They also offer Opera and Chrome browser extensions. You should have no problem connecting your home laptop or smart device to this VPN. It allows up to five devices at once.

While SurfEasy covers the basics well, they don’t extend to anything beyond. For example, the native app for Amazon’s FireTV was discontinued. If you want to use the VPN on anything beyond the major platforms, you’ll need to connect it to your router, which isn’t quite as easy as native support.

SurfEasy Features

SurfEasy isn’t loaded with extras, but they do offer a few interesting features beyond the basic VPN. At this point in our SurfEasy VPN review, let’s cover the platform’s main features:

• Wi-Fi Security

You’re automatically protected whenever you’re connected to a wireless hotspot, even an unsecured spot in a public place.

• Easy Location Switching

Just one click is all it takes to switch to a new location, allowing for easy IP masking.

• Tracker Blocker

Are you tired of ads that follow you from site to site? SurfEasy’s VPN includes a tracker blocker that stops cookies in their tracks, so you can browse without feeling bombarded by intrusive marketing.

• Supports up to Five Devices

Your subscription lets you use the VPN on up to five devices simultaneously.

• No Data Limits

SurfEasy doesn’t have data limits. Note that applies to their paid plans only.

• Money-Back Guarantee

You’re not locked into any major commitment here. They let you try the VPN for 14 days. If you’re not satisfied, you can cancel your subscription and get your money back. Considering there are no data limits, you can use the VPN extensively to see how you like it.

• Quick Reconnection

If your VPN connection drops, a warning notification displays, and reconnection is attempted right away. In most cases, you’ll get reconnected within a few seconds.

On the downside, SurfEasy doesn’t have a Kill Switch. Your IP address is potentially exposed whenever the VPN connection drops.

Is SurfEasy Fast?

SurfEasy’s speeds aren’t quite up there with the top VPNs, but they’re reliable and fast, especially if you’re using it within your home country.

Speeds do slow down when you connect to a different continent. While not common, you might see a speed decrease of up to 25% when using this VPN.

Additionally, the ping can get high. With an occasional ping increase that exceeds 400%, this isn’t the best choice for online gamers, because you’ll likely get disconnects and slowdown.

However, it does deliver consistent, reliable speeds for surfing and streaming within your own country.

How Many Servers and Locations Does SurfEasy Offer?

SurfEasy doesn’t win us over with their selection of server locations, but there are some benefits depending on where you live.

They have 1,000 servers in 28 countries. That’s a bit lower than many other VPNs, which tend to average around 50 countries.

Unfortunately, you can’t select a server by city, only country. Also, the locations are heavily weighted towards the US and the UK. You won’t find many options for Asia, Africa, or South America.

SurfEasy works well if you live near a major metropolitan area in the US or UK. For everyone else, you’ll likely experience some lag during peak hours.

Is It Good for Unblocking Streaming Services such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu?

Yes, SurfEasy does a solid job of unblocking most major streaming services. Not only does it work with Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, but it also unblocks the BBC iPlayer. It’s one of the few VPN that does so consistently, making that a big plus for SurfEasy.

SurfEasy does provide better-than-average torrenting support, with access to servers optimized for P2P sharing.

How Much Does SurfEasy Cost?

They keep it simple with a single pricing tier, which is cheaper if you commit to a year of service compared to paying by the month. SurfEasy costs:

• $5.99 per month
• $29.88 per year

You have no data limits, unlimited access to customer support, the ability to select from any available region, and torrent capabilities.

Additionally, you get a 14-day window where you can cancel for any reason and get a full refund. Considering that paying for each month separately costs about $72, you’ll see substantial savings if you sign up for a year in advance.

For the best value, we recommend signing up for a year and then thoroughly testing the service during the 14-day trial. Two weeks should be more than enough time for you to know if this is the VPN for you.

Summary

Let’s wrap up with our SurfEasy VPN review with a recommendation.

SurfEasy isn’t loaded with features. However, that’s not their focus. Instead, they’re committed to delivering reliable and affordable service with an emphasis on customer privacy. Also, they unblock regional restrictions for many major streaming services.

Overall, SurfEasy is a great value for the average VPN user. Their consistent performance, trusted reputation, outweigh their lack of flash.