Private Internet Access vs Surfshark
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Configurable VPN with unlimited devices.
The verdict
Both Private Internet Access and Surfshark are credible vpn tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Private Internet Access if you want a lower starting price (from $2/mo). Configurable VPN with unlimited devices.
Surfshark — Affordable VPN with unlimited devices.
Private Internet Access vs Surfshark: side by side
| Dimension | Private Internet Access | Surfshark |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $2/moWinner | From $2.50/mo |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Best for | Budget Conscious, Power Users | Budget Conscious, Families |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android | Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.4/5 |
Private Internet Access key facts
- Vendor
- PIA
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $2/mo
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Budget Conscious, Power Users
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 2010
- Headquarters
- Denver, CO, USA
Surfshark key facts
- Vendor
- Surfshark
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $2.50/mo
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Budget Conscious, Families
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2018
- Headquarters
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
Frequently asked questions
Is Private Internet Access better than Surfshark?
Neither is universally better — Surfshark edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Private Internet Access or Surfshark cheaper?
Private Internet Access is the more affordable of the two to get started, at from $2/mo. Private Internet Access starts at from $2/mo; Surfshark starts at from $2.50/mo.
Can Private Internet Access replace Surfshark?
Yes for most teams — both are vpn tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.