VPN · Head to head
Windscribe vs Proton VPN: which is better?
Short answer
Windscribe costs less in the first year ($12 vs $53.88). Pick Windscribe for VPN with a free tier and build-a-plan; pick Proton VPN for privacy-first VPN with a free tier.
| Fact | Windscribe | Proton VPN | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | VPN with a free tier and build-a-plan | Privacy-first VPN with a free tier | — |
| Free plan | Yes, limited free locations | Yes, unlimited data, limited servers | Tie |
| Entry plan | Pro: $5.75 / mo | VPN Plus: $4.49 / mo | Proton VPN |
| Mid plan | Build a Plan: $1 / mo | Proton Unlimited: $9.99 / mo | Windscribe |
| Top plan | Build a Plan: $1 / mo | Proton Unlimited: $9.99 / mo | Windscribe |
| 1st year | $12 | $53.88 | 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 Proton VPN?
Windscribe costs less in the first year ($12 vs $53.88).
| 1st year | Windscribe | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $69 | $53.88 |
| Mid | $12 | $119.88 |
| Top | $12 | $119.88 |
Which has the better free plan, Windscribe or Proton VPN?
Neither stands out: Windscribe: Yes, limited free locations; Proton VPN: Yes, unlimited data, limited servers.
Should you pick Windscribe or Proton VPN?
Pick Windscribe if
- you want VPN with a free tier and build-a-plan
- the free plan is enough (limited free locations)
Pick Proton VPN if
- you want privacy-first VPN with a free tier
- the free plan is enough (unlimited data, limited servers)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Windscribe pricing | windscribe.com/upgrade | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Proton VPN pricing | protonvpn.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare