SurfEasy delivers commendable performance with its fast speeds, torrenting support, and robust security through OpenVPN and 256-bit encryption by default. Although it operates independently from Opera VPN, SurfEasy is available as a browser extension.
Features
Based in Canada and owned by US-based Opera, SurfEasy boasts a network of over 1,000 servers across 28 countries. It provides applications for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Amazon devices, along with browser extensions for Chrome and Opera.
Setting up SurfEasy is straightforward—subscribe with your email to access a free trial within minutes. The user dashboard offers easy access to download files, FAQs, upgrade options, and account statistics.
The Windows client is exceptionally fast and user-friendly, featuring minimal settings and essential usage stats. It includes an upgrade option, a way to earn free data, and a list of countries with a connection toggle. The main interface presents a clean map displaying your location and four key metrics: public IP address, masked or real location (depending on VPN connection), connection status, and ad tracker blocking (available in paid plans).
The mobile application mirrors the desktop experience with its sleek design and efficiency. It includes a convenient desktop widget for one-tap connections and the ability to automatically connect to a new Wi-Fi network. This feature is particularly useful for users who frequently connect to public Wi-Fi while traveling.
Overall, SurfEasy is an ideal choice for VPN beginners seeking a straightforward, secure browsing experience with minimal configuration. Support is available via ticket-based assistance during business hours, and while customization options are limited, SurfEasy offers reliable protection and ease of use. Users can connect up to five devices per account with no bandwidth caps on paid plans. P2P support is available, though torrenting requires the Ultra subscription. The built-in tracker blocker prevents advertisers and social networks from tracking your online activities. DNS leak protection is implemented at the server level, though the lack of a kill switch is a minor drawback.
Pricing
SurfEasy offers an appealing free trial plan that supports up to five devices with a 500MB limit, which can be extended by referring others or connecting additional devices. For more comprehensive features, including unlimited data, region selection, ad-tracker blocking, and torrent compatibility, pricing starts at $7.99 per month or $39.99 per year. All plans come with a 14-day money-back guarantee. Payment options are limited to credit cards and PayPal, which may not suit those seeking complete anonymity.
While the monthly rate may be considered high, the annual plan offers more reasonable pricing.
Performance
SurfEasy impresses with its speed and performance. Despite the typical decrease in speeds with increased server distance, SurfEasy maintained strong upload speeds for both US and EU servers. Download speed reductions were minimal, and latency increases were reasonable.
Security testing showed no DNS, IPv6, or WebRTC leaks, contributing to a secure browsing experience.
However, while SurfEasy delivered strong speeds and security, it faced limitations with streaming. Accessing Netflix Canada was possible, but VPN restrictions eventually blocked further access. Similarly, BBC iPlayer allowed account login but did not permit streaming.
In summary, SurfEasy offers strong performance and security, though its streaming capabilities may require further refinement.
Privacy and Security
In terms of security, SurfEasy employs robust technology by default, including OpenVPN and AES-256 encryption, which represent the current industry standard for VPN services.
Regarding privacy, there are several important considerations:
Firstly, Canadian privacy laws may be intrusive, and this concern is compounded by SurfEasy’s ownership by the U.S.-based Opera. Consequently, issues related to the Five Eyes alliance, government surveillance, data retention, and legal subpoenas are relevant.
Secondly, SurfEasy retains email and billing information for operational reasons and will comply with law enforcement requests if necessary.
Thirdly, SurfEasy reserves the right to terminate service for users who misuse or overload the network, a policy that is standard among VPN providers.
Their Terms of Service and Privacy Policy are clearly articulated and relatively concise. While they do not log your real IP address or the websites you visit while connected to the VPN, some reservations remain after reviewing these documents.
