Windscribe vs. NordVPN : Which VPN is Better?

Windscribe is a Canada-based VPN service renowned for its free services but is not as popular as NordVPN, a premium service provider. NordVPN has earned great attention in the industry due to quality service delivery and often appears in the best VPN rankings.

Windscribe is not mentioned frequently, and you probably might not have heard of the two together. Therefore, our Windscribe vs. NordVPN comparison review will be interesting to differentiate the market leader from a not well-known VPN. This reflection of comparisons may help you find a new favorite.

In this post, we will highlight the Windscribe vs. NordVPN differences in aspects like speed, security, performance, etc.

VPNRanks Verdict

In the Windscribe vs. NordVPN race, NordVPN stands out with its competitive price, interactive interface, and top-class and unique features. It ensures a super-fast, secure, and reliable connection, which are all core essentials of a VPN, and has been nominated as the industry leader by market analysts consistently.

Therefore, NordVPN is VPNRanks’ choice.

Windscribe vs. NordVPN: A Quick Overview

Here’s a quick overview of Windscribe vs. NordVPN:

Let’s cover the specifications of the VPNs to discuss Windscribe vs. NordVPN.

NordVPN Overview:

Here are the pros and cons of NordVPN:

Windscribe Overview:

Here are the pros and cons of Windscribe:

Detailed Analysis: Windscribe vs. NordVPN [Updated 2022]

Here’s a detailed analysis to elaborate NordVPN vs. Windscribe concept:

1. Security – Windscribe vs. NordVPN

NordVPN and Windscribe both follow strong encryption standards to ensure the security aspect of the service. Military-grade AES-256-bit encryption and SHA-512 hash function are used by the two to mask the data traffic, where a 4096-bit key was used with the algorithm.

Moreover, both the VPNs use OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec, but in addition to this, Windscribe uses WireGuard too. Also, NordVPN has a DNS leak detection test, whereas Windscribe implements WebRTC leak detection.

Hence, both NordVPN and Windscribe have good security setups and they are ranked as secure VPNs.

Features

We present the features of the two VPNs in this table:

NordVPN servers are ideal for torrenting. On the other hand, Windscribe doesn’t restrict users from downloading torrents, but some of its server locations don’t allow torrenting.

NordVPN and Windscribe have obfuscated VPNs that help in rerouting the traffic or hiding your VPN usage on the network. Moreover, both VPNs have a Double Hop mode that lets packets travel through any 2 servers to mask the connection.

NordVPN has a special CyberSec functionality for threat protection which is missing in Windscribe. Additionally, Onion VPN privacy is a special feature designated for NordVPN servers to provide Tor with advanced VPN tunnel security.

For streaming, some Windscribe servers don’t run Netflix libraries. However, it does provide a feature called Windflix that has been designed to allow access to Netflix libraries in the UK and the US region.

2. Speed Performance: Windscribe or NordVPN

To test the speed of the VPNs for Windscribe vs. NordVPN competition, the performance was observed in different regions. For this reason, the average of their download and upload speeds was computed.

NordVPN and Windscribe have almost similar speeds. NordVPN is powered by the NordLynx protocol, whereas, Windscribe uses the WireGuard protocol. Although NordLynx and Windscribe show the same level of performance, NordLynx was upgraded, which improved its speed, and it performs faster than WireGuard.

At first, we tested NordVPN speeds on a 100 Mbps internet connection and received a download speed of 83.82 Mbps and an upload speed of 76.12 Mbps.

NordVPN proved to be a true streaming VPN by delivering fast-speed results during our test.

Then we tested Windscribe speeds on the same 100 Mbps internet connection and received a download speed of 65.21 Mbps and an upload speed of 34.75 Mbps:

Windscribe speeds were a bit slow compared to NordVPN’s.

In the case of Windscribe, WireGuard only supports Android, which limits the users of other platforms. When both protocols were tested, Windscribe’s WireGuard didn’t lag behind much on Android, which was surprising.

We amped up the baseline speed for tests and set the new baseline 300 Mbps for download and 300 Mbps for upload.

NordVPN and Windscribe use both UDP and TCP protocols. Moreover, Windscribe has WStunnel and Stealth as two variations that it implements internally.

From the OpenVPN UDP speed test results, NordVPN is clearly the winner by holding 65% of the original speed. On the other hand, Windscribe reports a 72% drop in speed. However, the NordVPN speed test performance turns the opposite in upload speed results, with Windscribe producing lightning-fast speed, whereas NordVPN barely catching up.

Windscribe has additional Stealth and Websocket Stealth protocols, which are missing in NordVPN. Therefore, we can’t compare the two thoroughly.

However, in OpenVPN’s TCP results, the average download and upload speeds of both Windscribe and NordVPN show that TCP is not generally super fast. However, NordVPN is the winner here, with average speeds twice as higher as Windscribe.

Finally, the IKEv2 protocol seems working great with Windscribe and NordVPN both. In terms of download speed, NordVPN tops the rank, whereas Windscribe has faster upload speeds than NordVPN.

Concluding the results, NordVPN is the clear winner in the speed race. It shows lesser drops in the real speed rate for every protocol, while Windscribe shows faster performance in the upload area. Both the VPNs performed worst in the OpenVPN protocol testing, which showed the OpenVPN speed side more than the VPNs themselves.

3. Streaming Performance: Netflix and Streaming Performance

We are happy to notice the good performance of both NordVPN and Windscribe for unblocking major streaming platforms like Netflix. NordVPN performs better in terms of connection stability and server functionality.

To support streaming, Windscribe has special servers located in Japan, the US, the UK, and Canada, known as Windflix. On the contrary, NordVPN has a special option called SmartPlay, particularly designed for streaming purposes.

While testing, Windscribe, and NordVPN both unblocked Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and YouTube. No issues of buffering were reported, and the streams loaded smoothly.

We could watch a huge variety of shows and movies which were unavailable in the Philippines’ content library.

In the streaming domain, NordVPN has the upper hand over Windscribe. NordVPN has more servers in different locations, so it doesn’t require switching between the servers to access the streaming platforms.

Here you can NordVPN unblocked Hulu for us as well:

We were able to stream every title in Hulu’s content library in HD.

However, Windscribe’s Windflix only lets users stream in the US, UK, Japan, and Canada. The regular servers can sometimes work but are not guaranteed to function always. It may take several reconnections to get one server that enables you to unblock your desired streaming channel.

It took us a few tries before we could successfully unblock Netflix using Windscribe.

In contrast, all NordVPN servers unblock every popular streaming platform from anywhere in the world, regardless of your location. With no reconnection requirements, the overall streaming quality is great. Users rarely face any issues; however, they get resolved easily.

Although both Windscribe and NordVPN do well in the streaming realm, NordVPN wears the crown with a vast network and active servers that unblock almost any streaming channel you desire. In our Windscribe vs. NordVPN hunt, this doesn’t state that Windscribe is any less – NordVPN performs a little better here.

4. Plans and pricing: NordVPN vs. Windsribe

Different VPNs have different pricing packages. Generally, VPNs with short-term subscription deals are more expensive than long-term duration packages. In the case of NordVPN and Windscribe, this stands true as their monthly plans are costlier than the annual deals.

Here’s a look at NordVPN’s pricing plans:

NordVPN offers three different pricing plans to its users.

Here’s a look at Windscribe’s pricing plans:

Windscribe also has different pricing plans along with a customizable one.

Let’s have a detailed look at the various pricing plans of the two VPNs to refine Windscribe vs. NordVPN:

NordVPN offers monthly and yearly subscription packages with varying rates. There is a drastic difference between its monthly plan charges and annual deals. It doesn’t offer a customized deal designed according to your choice.

On the other hand, Windscribe has a monthly and yearly subscription deal, but it doesn’t offer a 2-year plan. Moreover, it brings a ‘build a plan’ package for users to select the locations they want, charging $1 per location. This deal is ideal for users interested in connecting to lesser servers.

Windscribe also comes with a free version that can be used. In terms of the monthly plan, Windscribe is cheaper, but for a 1-year subscription, NordVPN is a more cost-effective VPN.

We can’t compare the two VPNs for a 2-year plan as Windscribe doesn’t include such a deal. Nevertheless, considering the top-class features and exceptional services, NordVPN seems reasonably good for $3.99/mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend.

Overall, Windscribe has a cheaper short-term deal, but NordVPN covers the gaps in long-term subscriptions by offering well-loaded features in budget-friendly deals. Additionally, NordVPN offers a 7-day free trial service, so you can try it before you commit.

Windscribe vs. NordVPN: Which Provider Is Cheaper?

NordVPN offers all basic to advanced plans with essential features and unique services. While Windscribe has a monthly and yearly subscription plan. Comparing the VPN features with the prices they are being offered, we find NordVPN to be more reasonable with effective performance.

Although pricing is subject to change, the current deals go in favor of NordVPN. Therefore, weighing the pros and services, we definitely recommend NordVPN.

Coupons

NordVPN is offering 63% off on their special Christmas deal with 3 months of free service. On top of this, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. While Windscribe has no ongoing deals.

5. Server Locations

VPNs with wide server networks are generally preferred for assuring uninterrupted and unrestricted connection services. Windscribe has servers in more than 60 countries, offering free and premium services. The total number of servers varies depending on the availability and status.

The good thing is that it has servers in less concentrated regions, like the Middle East and Asia, where VPNs either don’t serve or the quality of service is not up to the mark. Windscribe’s free servers are only located in 10 regions.

Windscribe offers many server locations in the US.

On the contrary, NordVPN is known for having large server networks with 6000 servers in 61 countries around the globe. Comparing the locations, there’s a little margin between the regions covered by the two.

NordVPN servers span all across the globe.

On top of this, both NordVPN and Windscribe have physical servers, ensuring that you connect to a real server in an actual geographical location.

While Windscribe serves slightly more countries than NordVPN, a huge difference lies in the number of servers that both provide. NordVPN offers 6000 servers worldwide with the best services on record, whereas Windscribe servers are not mentioned as subject to variation. Therefore, NordVPN is clearly the winner in terms of server locations.

6. Torrenting Support

Torrenting allows users to download files, movies, and series from online restricted platforms. NordVPN and Windscribe are both torrenting-friendly. Apparently, no issues are reported against any of the two for torrenting. However, in terms of performance, both showed different results.

To test torrenting, a 1.4GB download was taken, and NordVPN managed to complete to maintain a speed between 5MB/s to 7MB/s. The time taken to complete the download was around 4 and a half minutes.

In the case of Windscribe, it maintained a speed between 9MB/s to 10MB/s with a flare or 18MB/s a few times. Windscribe completed the download in 3 minutes and 5 seconds, which is quite impressive.

According to the results, both VPNs performed well and managed to complete the download in a reasonable amount of time, but Windscribe took lesser time and finished it quickly. Therefore, Windscribe scores ahead of NordVPN in the torrenting contest.

7. Compatibility: Which App Is Easier to Work With?

Both Windscribe and NordVPN have dedicated apps for major operating systems like Android, Windows, Linux, and iOS. Moreover, Windscribe offers a desktop version for Windows and Mac systems.

We can easily install Windscribe and NordVPN on Kodi and Amazon Fire Stick. Currently, Windscribe doesn’t support Android TV.

Windscribe is compatible with Edge and Opera browsers, whereas NordVPN supports Chrome, Edge, and Firefox.

Windscribe’s Windows app is pretty standard.

In terms of interface, both NordVPN and Windscribe have easy-to-use interfaces and are simple to configure. Some users prefer thoroughly depicted map-based server locations, while others may like Windscribe’s alphabetically sorted server locations.

NordVPN allows up to 6 simultaneous device connections, whereas Windscribe lets you connect unlimited devices at a time.

Windscribe’s desktop app interface is comparatively smaller, with easily locatable and properly functional features. Furthermore, its desktop apps for Windows and Mac are almost identical.

On the other hand, NordVPN’s desktop app is of adjustable size, has appropriate visual illustrations, and has a pleasing light interface. Moreover, tweaking settings, finding locations, and pausing connections are simple.

NordVPN’s Windows app sure takes up a lot of screen space.

NordVPN’s mobile apps have split tunnelling, a kill switch, and an auto-connect option. Dark web monitoring is not openly available in iOS.

NordVPN’s Android app UI can be improved.

Windscribe’s mobile apps offer more convenient features than the desktop version. With a simple design, expandable display, and accessible server list, Windscribe’s apps are useful. Windscribe apps also support split tunneling. Additionally, the WireGuard protocol is only available on Android.

Windscribe’s Android app is based on dark UI which makes it attractive.

In terms of interface, NordVPN is better as it has properly designed features and a simple layout for users. With a few tweaks and improvements, Windscribe can beat NordVPN.

Reliability: Which is better?

Windscribe and NordVPN are both concerned with providing reliable connections and safe delivery. We explore the reliability of each VPN by examining the below criteria.

Windscribe Reliability

After running some tests, we have some concerns regarding the reliability of the Windscribe VPN. Some of the reasons are:

• Reliable VPN apps: Windscribe apps are generally reliable as they don’t raise bugs, exceptions, or timeouts.
• Stable Connections: The Windscribe connections are fast, but may drop, causing interruptions or disconnects due to the distance or network limitations.
• Reliable Servers: Windscribe-free servers are located in just 10 regions, and the number of VPN availability is low.

NordVPN Reliability

NordVPN is one of the leading VPNs known for secure and reliable services worldwide. Some of the reasons to prove its performance are:

• Reliable VPN apps: All NordVPN apps are highly reliable with advanced features and top security testing, which ensures smooth services.
• Stable Connections: NordVPN provides fast and stable connections with no reconnections, downtimes, failures, or buffering.
• Reliable Servers: NordVPN covers a wide area with its reliable servers to facilitate users.

8. Customer Support: Which Provides Better Support?

NordVPN has the most efficient customer support, available 24/7.

Sound customer support service is essential to assist users in times of need. Products and services with poor or no customer support can’t thrive in the market. Finally, we explore the customer support aspect for both VPNs.

Windscribe and NordVPN both have detailed how-to guides, tutorials, and dedicated help centers. Windscribe even has an active subreddit run by agents and other VPN users to help or guide individuals.

Nevertheless, the difference in the performance of the two VPNs can be noticed against the live chat feature. The industry-leading NordVPN offers a live chat facility available 24/7, where human agents can be reached out instantly for any support or guidance. Users can avail of this feature on phones as well.

On the other hand, Windscribe just has a chatbot that receives your questions and responds infrequently. If you don’t get a response, you can submit a ticket to connect with a human agent. You can expect a reply in a few hours, which is reasonable.

Which of these VPNs Works in China?

Several countries restrict certain apps or websites from being accessed from other parts of the world. China is one such example, which uses the Great Firewall, the most advanced internet-filtering tool. Consequently, it blocks all VPNs and doesn’t allow them to work in the country.

Fortunately, both the Windscribe and NordVPN services are strong enough to bypass Chinese internet restrictions. Some VPNs require enabling additional features to access banned content via Chinese limitations, whereas the best China VPNs like Windscribe and NordVPN can simply unlock without any extra aid.

Remember to install NordVPN and Windscribe apps before you reach China and try to access the content. If you’re not convinced, you can refer to our best VPNs for China list.

FAQs: Windscribe vs. NordVPN

Final Verdict: Windscribe vs. NordVPN

NordVPN is one of the leading names in the VPN industry, but the Canada-based Windscribe has not yet made a prominent place in the market. To evaluate the performance, we tested both from different aspects, such as server locations, interface quality, customer support, pricing, and speed delivery.

From the results, we have NordVPN as the clear winner of the Windscribe vs. NordVPN debate. It has established a large server network, ensuring unrestricted service delivery with blazing-fast speed. Moreover, it respects your privacy and protects your presence.

Although Windscribe did perform well in certain fields, NordVPN has the edge. Windscribe can beat the leader with little improvements and enhancements.

If you’re still confused between the two, go through our detailed NordVPN review and Windsribe analysis to help reach a well-informed conclusion.