Windscribe vs ProtonVPN

Head-to-head comparison of two popular vpn tools. See which one is right for your needs.

Last updated: March 2026

Quick Verdict

ProtonVPN has a higher rating (4.5/5) compared to Windscribe (4.3/5). ProtonVPN also starts at a lower price point ($4.49 vs $5.75/month).

Windscribe

4.3

Windscribe is a versatile VPN offering a generous free tier with 10GB monthly data and access to servers in 10 countries. It includes ad blocking, firewall features, and browser extensions. Windscribe's build-a-plan pricing model offers flexibility for different needs.

Pricing

Free / $5.75/month

Key Features

  • Generous Free Tier
  • R.O.B.E.R.T. Blocker
  • Build-a-Plan Pricing
  • Browser Extensions
  • Static IPs
  • Port Forwarding
  • Split Tunneling
  • Unlimited Devices

Pros

  • + Best free VPN
  • + Flexible pricing
  • + Good privacy features
  • + Works well for streaming

Cons

  • Slower than premium options
  • Smaller company
  • Support can be slow
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ProtonVPN

4.5

ProtonVPN is a privacy-focused VPN from the makers of ProtonMail, based in Switzerland. It offers a genuine free tier with no data limits, open-source apps, and Secure Core servers that route through privacy-friendly countries. ProtonVPN is ideal for privacy-conscious users.

Pricing

Free / $4.49/month

Key Features

  • Free Tier
  • Secure Core
  • NetShield Ad Blocker
  • P2P Support
  • Tor over VPN
  • Kill Switch
  • Open Source Apps
  • No Logs

Pros

  • + True free tier
  • + Swiss privacy laws
  • + Open source
  • + Strong security focus

Cons

  • Slower free servers
  • Smaller server network
  • Fewer streaming features
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