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Detailed Comparison

Hotspot Shield vs Surfshark

A comprehensive comparison to help you decide if Surfshark is the right EU alternative to Hotspot Shield for your needs.

US-based (CLOUD Act applies)
Hotspot Shield logo

Hotspot Shield

🇺🇸Aura

Hotspot Shield by Aura is a VPN service that provides secure, private internet access. It offers fast connection speeds, military-grade encryption, and bypasses geo-restrictions for seamless streaming and browsing.

EU-based (GDPR Protected)
Surfshark logo

Surfshark

🇱🇹Surfshark

Surfshark is a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service developed by Surfshark, a Lithuanian cybersecurity company that merged with Nord Security in 2022. Founded in Vilnius, Lithuania, the company is registered in the Netherlands for its legal entity. Surfshark is designed to provide users with secure and private internet browsing. It offers over 4500 servers across more than 100 countries, allowing users to connect from various global locations. A notable feature of Surfshark is its unlimited simultaneous device connections, which enables users to protect multiple devices under a single account. The service employs a RAM-only server infrastructure, ensuring that no data is stored on hard drives, and adheres to a strict no-logs policy. Additional features include CleanWeb, which blocks malware and ads, Whitelister for split tunneling, Camouflage mode for stealth browsing, and MultiHop for double VPN connections. Surfshark operates on a subscription-based pricing model, offering various plans to suit different user needs.

Our Verdict

Privacy Winner: Surfshark

Your data stays in the EU and is protected under GDPR, free from US CLOUD Act access.

Feature Comparison

Switching from
Hotspot Shield logo

Hotspot Shield

🇺🇸

Aura

VS
Switching to
Surfshark logo

Surfshark

🇱🇹

Surfshark

US Data Storage

Data subject to US CLOUD Act and may be accessed by US authorities

EU Data Protection

Data protected under GDPR with EU-only data residency

Certifications & Compliance

No certifications listed

EU-Based
GDPR Compliant
ISO 27001

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Surfshark a good replacement for Hotspot Shield?

Yes, Surfshark is a GDPR-compliant European alternative to Hotspot Shield. It offers similar functionality while ensuring your data stays within EU jurisdiction and is protected under strict European privacy laws.

Is Surfshark GDPR compliant?

Yes, Surfshark is a European company that fully complies with GDPR regulations. Your data is stored in EU data centers and is not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act.

How much does Surfshark cost?

Surfshark offers various pricing. Visit their website for current pricing details and to compare plans based on your specific needs.

Where is my data stored with Surfshark?

Surfshark stores data in EU data centers, ensuring compliance with European data protection regulations and keeping your information within EU jurisdiction.

Other EU alternatives to Hotspot Shield

Ready to make the switch to Surfshark?

Take control of your data privacy by switching to an EU-based alternative.