Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, have become a must-have tool in our increasingly digital world. They serve as an essential digital bodyguard, protecting our online privacy and securing our data from prying eyes.
PIA (Private Internet Access) and Windscribe are two renowned players among the throng of available VPNs.
This post discusses a detailed comparison between PIA and Windscribe, providing a clear view of which VPN might better suit your needs.
But if you’re in a hurry, feel free to jump to our Quick Answer section for a concise comparison.
Quick Answer
Here’s a quick overview of our PIA vs. Windscribe comparison.
| Feature | PIA | Windscribe |
|---|---|---|
| Server Network | Over 35000 servers in 78 countries | Over 400 servers in 63 countries and 110 cities |
| Security and Privacy | AES-256 encryption, no logs policy, kill switch | AES-256 encryption, no logs policy, kill switch, double hop |
| Pricing | Monthly: $11.95, Yearly: $3.33/month, Three-yearly: $2.03/month | Monthly: $9, Yearly: $4.08/month, Build Your Own Plan: Starts at $1 per location per month |
| Compatibility and Ease of Use | Supports various platforms with 10 simultaneous connections | Supports various platforms with unlimited connections |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat, online knowledge base | Chatbot “Garry”, ticket support, online knowledge base |
| Streaming and Torrenting | Supports P2P traffic, unblocks popular streaming platforms | Supports P2P traffic, special WINDFLIX servers for streaming |
| Speed and Performance | Consistent high-speed performance | Slightly varying speeds, but generally high-speed performance |
Comparing PIA vs. WindScribe
Now, let’s compare the features individually for a more comprehensive comparison.
Feature 1: Privacy and Security
PIA: Security and Privacy Features
Regarding privacy and security, PIA offers an impressive suite of features. The VPN boasts AES-256-bit encryption, often considered the gold standard in data encryption.
It also supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard.
PIA also has a strict no-logs policy and offers a kill switch, automatically disconnecting your device from the internet if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
Windscribe: Security and Privacy Features
Windscribe also puts a strong emphasis on security and privacy. It uses an AES-256 cipher with SHA512 auth and a 4096-bit RSA key.
The VPN offers multiple protocol options, including IKEv2 and OpenVPN. Windscribe also features a no-logs policy, ensuring your browsing habits remain private.
The R.O.B.E.R.T. feature, Windscribe’s built-in domain, and IP blocking tool, provides an added layer of security by protecting against malware, ads, and trackers.
Both VPNs offer robust features in the privacy battle of PIA vs. Windscribe. PIA may edge slightly due to the wider choice of protocols, while Windscribe’s R.O.B.E.R.T feature is a standout.
Feature 2: Speed and Performance
PIA: Speed and Performance Overview
One of the most crucial aspects when selecting a VPN is its impact on your internet speed. PIA typically offers strong performance with high-speed servers, especially those in the US and UK.
However, like all VPNs, speeds may vary based on location, server distance, and network conditions.
Windscribe: Speed and Performance Overview
Windscribe also holds its ground when it comes to speed. Users often report satisfactory speeds across many of their servers.
Notably, Windscribe’s premium servers, known as “WINDFLIX,” are optimized for streaming and offer consistent high speeds.
Remember, speeds can fluctuate based on numerous factors, including your original ISP speed, server location, and current network load.
Between PIA and Windscribe, it’s a close match in terms of speed and performance. Both VPNs offer reliable services that comfortably handle everyday browsing, streaming, and downloading tasks.
Feature 3: Number of Servers and Locations
PIA: Server Distribution
PIA stands out in the VPN market due to its massive network of servers. As of our last count, they have over 29,000 servers spread across 70 countries.
This extensive server network ensures that you’ll likely find a server nearby no matter where you are, which often translates to better speeds and performance.
Windscribe: Server Distribution
While not as extensive as PIA, Windscribe offers a decent server spread. They maintain servers in 63 countries, ensuring good global coverage.
However, the number of servers is undisclosed, making it hard to compare directly with PIA. One unique offering from Windscribe is its WINDFLIX servers, specifically designed to bypass streaming geo-restrictions.
Regarding the server count and global distribution, PIA seems to have the upper hand over Windscribe. However, Windscribe’s strategic placement of servers and specialized streaming servers might offer what you need.
Feature 4: Pricing
PIA: Pricing Breakdown (in USD)
PIA offers three main subscription plans:
- Monthly: $11.95/month
- Yearly: $3.33/month (billed $39.95 annually)
- 3-yearly: $2.03/month (billed $79 every three years)
These prices make PIA one of the more affordable VPNs in the market. Additionally, PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the service before fully committing.
Windscribe: Pricing Breakdown (in USD)
Windscribe offers a bit more flexibility with their pricing:
- Monthly: $9/month
- Yearly: $4.08/month (billed $49 annually)
- Build Your Own Plan: Starts at $1 per location per month
The unique ‘Build Your Own Plan’ allows you to choose specific server locations you want, which could be a cost-effective solution if you only need a few servers. Windscribe also has a limited free version and offers a 3-day money-back guarantee.
When it comes to pricing, PIA seems to offer a more cost-effective solution, particularly for long-term plans. However, Windscribe’s customizable plan might be more appealing if you’re after specific servers.
Feature 5: Compatibility and Ease of Use
PIA: Device Compatibility and Usability
PIA offers extensive device compatibility, supporting platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and even routers.
With up to 10 simultaneous connections, PIA lets you protect multiple devices with a single account. The user interface is straightforward, making it suitable for VPN newcomers and veterans.
Windscribe: Device Compatibility and Usability
Windscribe matches PIA regarding platform compatibility, offering Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and routers apps.
What sets Windscribe apart, however, is the provision for unlimited device connections – a feature very few VPNs offer. Windscribe’s applications are user-friendly, with a clean and intuitive interface.
It’s a draw between PIA and Windscribe regarding device compatibility and usability. Both VPNs support a wide range of devices and offer user-friendly apps.
However, if you have many devices to connect to, Windscribe’s unlimited connections may be more appealing.
Feature 6: Customer Support
PIA: Customer Support Review
PIA provides multiple avenues for customer support. You can reach out to them via their 24/7 live chat, which is usually quick and responsive.
Additionally, they have an extensive online knowledge base with guides and FAQs to help you troubleshoot issues independently.
Windscribe: Customer Support Review
Windscribe offers a different approach to customer support. Instead of live chat, they utilize a chatbot named “Garry” which can answer common queries and guide users through basic troubleshooting.
You can submit a ticket to their support team for more complex issues. They also maintain an online FAQ and knowledge base.
When comparing PIA and Windscribe’s customer support, PIA’s 24/7 live chat may provide a more immediate response, while Windscribe’s chatbot could prove useful for straightforward inquiries.
Feature 7: Streaming and Torrenting
PIA: Streaming and Torrenting Capabilities
PIA stands out as a strong choice for both torrenting and streaming. All their servers support P2P traffic, making it a solid choice for secure torrenting.
For streaming, PIA can unblock popular services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer, although some users have reported occasional issues with Netflix’s regional libraries.
Windscribe: Streaming and Torrenting Capabilities
Windscribe is also a strong contender for streaming and torrenting. Most of their servers support P2P traffic, making it suitable for torrenting.
However, the standout feature is their WINDFLIX servers, designed to bypass the geo-restrictions on streaming sites like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu. This could make Windscribe a preferred choice for avid streamers.
It’s a tough call when comparing streaming and torrenting capabilities between PIA and Windscribe. Both are competent, but Windscribe might lead with their specialized WINDFLIX servers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Does PIA or Windscribe keep logs?
Neither PIA nor Windscribe keep activity logs. Both VPNs operate under strict no-logs policies, meaning they don’t track or store your online activities.
Q2. Which VPN is best for streaming, PIA or Windscribe?
While both VPNs can unblock popular streaming platforms, Windscribe’s WINDFLIX servers, specifically optimized for streaming, may provide a smoother streaming experience.
Q3. Is PIA cheaper than Windscribe?
Yes, PIA’s longer-term plans tend to be cheaper than Windscribe. However, Windscribe offers a unique ‘Build Your Own Plan’ option which could be more cost-effective if you only need a few specific servers.
Q4. Which VPN offers better customer support, PIA or Windscribe?
PIA offers 24/7 live chat support, which could provide more immediate assistance. Windscribe, on the other hand, uses a chatbot for support and a ticket system for more complex queries.
Q5. Can I use PIA or Windscribe for torrenting?
Yes, both PIA and Windscribe support P2P connections on most of their servers, making them suitable for secure torrenting.
Conclusion
When weighing PIA vs. Windscribe, it’s clear that both VPNs offer robust services that cater well to different user needs.
PIA excels with its extensive server network, robust security features, and competitive pricing for long-term plans. It’s a solid, all-around VPN that should meet the needs of most users.
Windscribe, on the other hand, stands out with its unlimited device connections, customizable pricing plan, and WINDFLIX servers designed for optimal streaming.
It’s an excellent choice for users who prioritize streaming or need to connect many devices.
Choosing between PIA and Windscribe ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Consider what features are most important to you: whether it’s price, server count, streaming capabilities, or device connections, both of these VPNs have their own unique strengths.
