Windscribe VPN Review 2024: Pricing, Features and Why it’s Different

Windscribe VPN is a versatile VPN service developed by Windscribe Limited, a company based in Ontario, Canada. Since its launch in 2016, Windscribe has rapidly grown to serve millions of users globally, establishing itself as a reliable and innovative player in the VPN market. Known for its generous free plan offering up to 10GB of data per month, Windscribe caters to both casual users and those needing robust privacy solutions. It provides a comprehensive network of servers in over 60 countries, ensuring fast and secure connections for streaming, browsing, and downloading. Windscribe’s strong reputation is bolstered by its commitment to user privacy, employing AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and features like its unique R.O.B.E.R.T. system for blocking ads and malware. The service is widely praised for its user-friendly interface and flexibility, making it a top choice for both beginners and advanced users seeking a reliable VPN solution. This review explores its key features, app compatibility, security concerns, and top alternatives. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of Windscribe VPN and its place in the VPN landscape.

What Makes Windscribe Different?

Windscribe VPN offers a variety of features designed to enhance user privacy and browsing experience. One of its most prominent features is its generous free plan. Users can access up to 10GB of data per month on the free plan, which is rare among VPN providers. This makes Windscribe a viable option for users who need occasional protection without committing to a paid plan.

The VPN boasts a server network spread across over 60 countries. This extensive network allows users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from different regions. Windscribe’s servers are optimized for speed and reliability, ensuring stable connections. The VPN also offers dedicated servers for streaming, which are optimized for accessing platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.

Windscribe VPN’s Unique R.O.B.E.R.T. Feature

Windscribe’s unique R.O.B.E.R.T. feature is another key selling point. R.O.B.E.R.T. is a customizable domain and IP blocking tool that enhances online privacy. Users can block ads, trackers, malware, and even specific types of content, such as gambling or adult sites. This feature not only improves security but also enhances the browsing experience by reducing unwanted content.

Another notable feature is Windscribe’s split tunneling capability. Split tunneling allows users to route some of their traffic through the VPN while the rest uses the regular internet connection. This can help optimize performance by reducing the load on the VPN connection, especially useful for tasks that do not require VPN protection.

The VPN also includes an automatic kill switch, which disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops. This prevents data leaks and ensures your privacy remains intact. Windscribe also provides DNS and IP leak protection, further safeguarding your online activities.

Windscribe VPN Security Features

Windscribe VPN places a strong emphasis on security and privacy. It uses AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard for data protection. This level of encryption ensures that your data remains secure and private, even on public Wi-Fi networks.

The VPN supports multiple encryption protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. Each protocol offers a different balance of speed and security. OpenVPN is widely regarded as the most secure protocol, while WireGuard is known for its speed and efficiency. Users can choose the protocol that best suits their needs.

No Log Policy

Windscribe’s no-logs policy is another critical security feature. The VPN claims not to store any user activity data, ensuring complete privacy. This policy is particularly important for users who prioritize anonymity. Windscribe is based in Canada, which is a member of the Five Eyes alliance. Despite this, the company has maintained a strong commitment to user privacy.

The R.O.B.E.R.T. feature enhances security by blocking malicious websites and trackers. Users can customize their blocking preferences to suit their needs. This feature provides an additional layer of protection, reducing the risk of malware and phishing attacks.

Windscribe includes a built-in firewall, which acts as a kill switch. The firewall prevents any traffic from leaving your device outside of the VPN tunnel. This ensures that your real IP address is never exposed, even if the VPN connection drops. The firewall adds an extra layer of security, ensuring your data remains protected.

Windscribe App Compatibility

Windscribe VPN is compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems. This broad compatibility ensures that users can protect their online activities on all their devices. The VPN supports Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.

• For desktop users, the Windows and macOS apps are feature-rich and easy to navigate. Both apps offer the same set of features, including one-click connection and server selection. The Linux app, although command-line based, offers similar functionality and caters to more tech-savvy users.

• Mobile users benefit from Windscribe’s intuitive iOS and Android apps. These apps are designed to be user-friendly, with a clean interface and essential features. They include automatic Wi-Fi protection, securing your connection on public networks. The mobile apps offer the same high-speed connections and security features as the desktop versions.

• Windscribe also offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. These extensions provide a lightweight option for securing your browsing activity. They are easy to install and use, offering essential features like IP masking and ad blocking. The extensions ensure that your online activities remain private and secure.

• In addition, Windscribe is compatible with smart TVs and gaming consoles. Users can configure the VPN on devices like Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, PlayStation, and Xbox. This compatibility allows users to stream content and play games securely on various devices. Setting up the VPN on these devices ensures that all your online activities are protected.

• Windscribe also provides a router configuration option. By setting up the VPN on your router, you can protect all devices connected to your network. This is particularly useful for households with multiple devices. It ensures that every device benefits from the VPN’s security features.

Windscribe Pricing and Plans

Windscribe VPN offers several pricing plans to cater to different budgets. The plans vary in length, with discounts available for longer commitments. Below is an overview of the current pricing as of 2024:

• Monthly Plan: $9.00 per month
• Yearly Plan: $4.08 per month (billed $49.00 annually)
• Build A Plan: $1.00 per location (minimum $3.00 per month)

The yearly plan offers the best value, providing significant savings compared to the monthly plan. Windscribe also offers a free plan with limited features and bandwidth. The free plan includes up to 10GB of data per month, making it a viable option for casual users.

Windscribe provides a unique Build A Plan option. Users can customize their subscription by selecting specific server locations. Each location costs $1.00 per month, with a minimum subscription of $3.00 per month. This flexible pricing model allows users to pay only for the features they need.

Additionally, Windscribe offers a Team plan for businesses. This plan includes centralized billing, dedicated servers, and priority support. The Team plan is priced at $3.00 per user per month, with a minimum of five users. This plan is ideal for small businesses looking to protect their online activities.

Windscribe also supports various payment methods. Users can pay with credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrency. This flexibility ensures that users can choose the payment method that best suits their needs. The VPN frequently offers promotional discounts, providing additional savings for new users.

How Is Windscribe VPN’s Speed and Performance

Windscribe VPN is known for its impressive speed and performance. The VPN’s extensive server network ensures a stable connection, even during peak times. Users can expect minimal speed loss when connected to nearby servers.

The dedicated streaming servers are optimized for high-speed connections. This allows users to stream content in HD or 4K without buffering. Windscribe’s torrenting servers also offer excellent performance, with fast download speeds and stable connections.

In speed tests, Windscribe VPN consistently ranks among the top VPNs. The WireGuard protocol, in particular, provides impressive speeds. Users can switch between protocols to find the best balance of speed and security for their needs.

Windscribe’s performance is further enhanced by its user-friendly app. The app automatically selects the best server based on your location and network conditions. This ensures that you always get the best possible performance.

The VPN also offers a split tunneling feature. This feature allows users to route specific apps through the VPN while others use the regular internet connection. Split tunneling helps in optimizing performance by reducing the load on the VPN connection.

Top Alternatives

Windscribe VPN offers many advantages, but other VPN services provide similar features and performance. Consider these top alternatives:

NordVPN

NordVPN is renowned for its robust security and extensive server network.

• Security: NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. Advanced features like Double VPN and CyberSec enhance security.
• Server Network: With over 5,400 servers in 60 countries, NordVPN ensures fast and reliable connections, bypassing geo-restrictions and maintaining stable performance.
• Privacy: Based in Panama, NordVPN follows a strict no-logs policy. Regular third-party audits validate its privacy claims.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is celebrated for its speed and reliability, making it a favorite among users.

• Speed: Consistently ranking among the fastest VPNs, ExpressVPN benefits from optimized servers and its proprietary Lightway protocol.
• Server Network: With over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN provides numerous options for bypassing geo-restrictions.
• Privacy: Based in the British Virgin Islands, ExpressVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy and has undergone independent audits to confirm its privacy commitments.

Surfshark

Surfshark offers excellent value with affordable pricing and a comprehensive feature set.

• Pricing: Surfshark’s competitive pricing includes significant discounts for long-term plans and allows unlimited simultaneous connections.
• Security: Using AES-256 encryption, Surfshark supports secure protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. Features like CleanWeb and MultiHop further enhance security.
• Privacy: Based in the British Virgin Islands, Surfshark follows a strict no-logs policy.

Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access is known for strong security and affordability.

• Security: PIA employs AES-256 encryption and supports various protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard. It offers advanced features like a kill switch and DNS leak protection.
• Server Network: Boasting over 35,000 servers in 78 countries, PIA ensures extensive coverage and reliable connections.
• Privacy: Based in the United States, PIA adheres to a strict no-logs policy. Despite being in a Five Eyes country, PIA has a proven track record of protecting user data.

ProtonVPN

Developed by the team behind ProtonMail, ProtonVPN focuses strongly on privacy and security.

• Privacy: Based in Switzerland, ProtonVPN benefits from strong privacy laws and operates under a strict no-logs policy.
• Security: ProtonVPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports secure protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec. Advanced features like Secure Core enhance security.
• Free Plan: ProtonVPN offers a free plan with unlimited data, though with limited server options. This makes it ideal for users wanting to try the service before committing to a paid plan.

Each of these competitors offers unique features and strengths. Whether you prioritize speed, security, affordability, or privacy, there is a VPN service to meet your needs. Windscribe VPN remains a strong contender, but these alternatives present compelling options worth considering.

Timeline of Updates and Improvements

01/17/2023

• Mac v2.6.6: Added UI improvements, fixed crash issues, and improved protocol handling​ ​.

12/01/2023

• Windows v2.8.4 (Alpha): Improved anti-censorship feature, fixed custom OpenVPN config connection issues, and resolved UI bugs​ .

12/07/2023

• Windows v2.8.5 (Beta): Fixed DNS query issues, improved update stability, and corrected text alignment in preferences​ ​.

04/20/2024

• Free Pro Accounts for Journalists & NGOs: Announced free Pro accounts for journalists and NGOs to support secure communication​.

04/23/2024

• Referral Program Update: Updated the referral program to offer more benefits for referring friends to Windscribe​ ​.

05/02/2024

• Circumvent Censorship Feature: Introduced a new feature to improve VPN connection success in censored regions by sending fake protocol packets before VPN connection​ ​.

06/19/2024

• Next-Generation VPN Infrastructure (FreshScribe): Launched FreshScribe, a distributed-core architecture to reduce latency and improve connection reliability by decentralizing data for connection setup​.

07/10/2024

• Windependence Day Sale: Offered a special sale on Pro subscriptions, highlighting their ongoing promotional activities​ ​.

07/18/2024

• Windows Changelog Update: Fixed various UI issues, improved reconnection stability, and updated dependencies like OpenSSL and OpenVPN to the latest versions​.

Final Thoughts

Windscribe VPN is a reliable and feature-rich VPN service for 2024. Its key features, such as the R.O.B.E.R.T. tool and extensive server network, make it a top choice for users seeking robust security and flexible pricing. The VPN’s compatibility with various devices and operating systems ensures comprehensive protection. While some privacy concerns exist due to its jurisdiction, Windscribe’s no-logs policy and independent audits provide reassurance. The service’s user-friendly interface and excellent performance further enhance the user experience. Despite the competition, Windscribe VPN stands out as a versatile option for online privacy and unrestricted access.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What devices and operating systems are compatible with Windscribe VPN?

Windscribe VPN is compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems. It supports Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. For desktop users, the Windows and macOS apps are feature-rich and user-friendly. The Linux app, while command-line based, offers robust functionality for tech-savvy users. Mobile users benefit from intuitive iOS and Android apps, which include automatic Wi-Fi protection. Windscribe also offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. Furthermore, Windscribe is compatible with smart TVs and gaming consoles like Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, PlayStation, and Xbox. Users can also configure Windscribe on their routers to protect all connected devices.

2. How does Windscribe VPN ensure user privacy and security?

Windscribe VPN prioritizes user privacy and security through several key measures. It uses AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard for data protection, ensuring that your data remains secure and private. Windscribe supports multiple encryption protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, each offering different balances of speed and security. The VPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not store any user activity data. The R.O.B.E.R.T. feature enhances security by blocking ads, trackers, and malicious websites. Windscribe also includes DNS and IP leak protection and an automatic kill switch, which prevents data leaks if the VPN connection drops.

3. Can I use Windscribe VPN for streaming and torrenting?

Yes, Windscribe VPN is optimized for both streaming and torrenting. The VPN has dedicated servers for popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, ensuring high-speed connections and a smooth streaming experience. Users can bypass geo-restrictions to access content from different regions. For torrenting, Windscribe offers secure and fast connections with strong encryption and a no-logs policy to ensure privacy. The WireGuard protocol enhances the speed and security of the connection, making it ideal for P2P file sharing. Windscribe’s torrenting servers are clearly labeled in the app, making it easy to find and connect to the best server.

4. What pricing plans does Windscribe VPN offer, and is there a free version?

Windscribe VPN offers several pricing plans, including a monthly plan at $9.00 per month, a yearly plan at $4.08 per month (billed $49.00 annually), and a unique Build A Plan option, where users can customize their subscription by selecting specific server locations at $1.00 per location per month, with a minimum of $3.00 per month. The yearly plan provides the best value. Windscribe also offers a free plan with up to 10GB of data per month, making it a viable option for casual users. Additionally, Windscribe has a Team plan for businesses, which includes centralized billing, dedicated servers, and priority support, priced at $3.00 per user per month, with a minimum of five users.

5. How can I get support if I encounter issues with Windscribe VPN?

Windscribe VPN offers robust customer support to assist users with any issues. The support team is available 24/7 through live chat and email. The live chat feature is particularly useful for quick responses to common queries. Windscribe also provides an extensive knowledge base on its website, which includes detailed guides, FAQs, and troubleshooting tips. Users can find step-by-step instructions for setting up the VPN on various devices and resolving common issues. Windscribe’s support team is known for being responsive and helpful, assisting with technical issues, account management, and other concerns. Additionally, Windscribe provides a community forum where users can share tips and solutions.