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Surge review

#23 of 34 in Proxy Software

A highly configurable proxy client for advanced Mac and iOS traffic control.

6.6/10Editor score
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Surge6.6 Visit Surge

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Surge is a network toolbox and proxy client for developers and advanced users on macOS and iOS. It captures traffic through system proxy settings, local proxy ports, or a virtual network interface, then applies rules by domain, IP, GeoIP, process, protocol, and source. Surge is client software rather than a proxy network provider, so users configure their own proxy servers. It suits people who need detailed control over routing, DNS behavior, traffic inspection, and connection handling across Apple devices.

Its technical depth is the main reason to choose it. Surge supports HTTP(S), SOCKS5, Shadowsocks, Snell, VMess, Trojan, TUIC, Hysteria 2, AnyTLS, SSH, WireGuard, Tailscale, and other proxy protocols. DNS options include DoH, DoH3, DoQ, DoT, local mappings, and fake-IP handling. For debugging and automation, it provides HTTPS decryption with MITM, request and response rewriting, JavaScript scripting, Dashboard and Logbook inspection, and an authenticated HTTP API. Gateway mode, DHCP, port forwarding, and device-to-device networking through Surge Ponte extend its role beyond a local proxy client.

The published licensing options separate Mac and iOS use. Mac licenses cover one, three, or five devices, with lifetime use of unlocked versions and one year of free updates. The iOS Pro Personal License covers up to three iOS devices and may upgrade to six when bound to an iCloud account. Surge offers a seven-day trial and has no free plan. Integrations include iCloud Drive, Dropbox, Tailscale, and WireGuard. Choose Surge if you want extensive traffic-control and debugging capabilities within the macOS and iOS ecosystem; choose another option if you need Windows, Android, or a supplied proxy network.

Surge pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Broad support for proxy protocols, routing rules, and DNS customization
    • HTTPS decryption, rewriting, scripting, inspection, and debugging tools
    • Gateway features and authenticated HTTP API for programmatic control
  • Where it doesn't
    • Supports only macOS and iOS
    • Requires users to configure their own proxy servers
    • Paid product with no free plan

Surge fact sheet, pricing and score →

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