VPN · Head to head
Windscribe vs Private Internet Access: which is better?
Short answer
Windscribe costs less in the first year ($12 vs $24.36). Pick Windscribe for VPN with a free tier and build-a-plan; pick Private Internet Access for VPN with unlimited simultaneous devices.
| Fact | Windscribe | Private Internet Access | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | VPN with a free tier and build-a-plan | VPN with unlimited simultaneous devices | — |
| Free plan | Yes, limited free locations | No | Windscribe |
| Entry plan | Pro: $5.75 / mo | 1 Year: $3.99 / mo | Private Internet Access |
| Mid plan | Build a Plan: $1 / mo | 3 Years + 3 Months: $2.03 / mo | Windscribe |
| Top plan | Build a Plan: $1 / mo | 3 Years + 3 Months: $2.03 / mo | Windscribe |
| 1st year | $12 | $24.36 | Windscribe |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, Chrome extension, Firefox extension, Edge extension | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Chrome extension, Firefox extension | Tie |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Windscribe or Private Internet Access?
Windscribe costs less in the first year ($12 vs $24.36).
| 1st year | Windscribe | Private Internet Access |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $69 | $47.88 |
| Mid | $12 | $24.36 |
| Top | $12 | $24.36 |
Which has the better free plan, Windscribe or Private Internet Access?
Windscribe: Yes, limited free locations.
Should you pick Windscribe or Private Internet Access?
Pick Windscribe if
- you want VPN with a free tier and build-a-plan
- the free plan is enough (limited free locations)
Pick Private Internet Access if
- you want VPN with unlimited simultaneous devices
- you can pay $2.03 / mo from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Windscribe pricing | windscribe.com/upgrade | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Private Internet Access pricing | privateinternetaccess.com/buy-vpn-online | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare