ExpressVPN vs Windscribe: Which VPN is Better in 2025?

Choosing the right VPN can feel like trying to pick out the fastest car in a race.

They all promise to keep your online activity private and secure, but which one actually delivers?

Two of the biggest names in the game are ExpressVPN vs Windscribe.

Both offer strong features, but they have some key differences that might make one a better fit for you than the other.

In this post, we’ll break down those differences, comparing speed, security, and price. 

Overview

To give you the most accurate comparison, we’ve spent weeks testing both ExpressVPN and Windscribe.

We’ve used them for everyday tasks like streaming and browsing, and we’ve run detailed speed and security tests.

This hands-on experience gives us a clear picture of how these VPNs perform in the real world.

What is ExpressVPN?

Now, let’s talk about ExpressVPN. This one’s a real speed demon!

They’re known for having super-fast connections, perfect for streaming or downloading large files. 

They also have servers in 94 countries, so you have many options for finding a server that meets your needs. 

And don’t even get me started on their security features. They’re top-notch!

Also, explore our favorite ExpressVPN alternatives…

Key Benefits

• Blazing-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming and downloading.
• Extensive server network: Connect to servers in 94 countries.
• Best-in-class security: Features include AES-256 encryption and a kill switch.
• User-friendly apps: Easy to set up and use on all your devices.

Pricing

1 month: $12.95/month.
12 months: $8.33/month.
6 months: $9.99/month.

What is  Windscribe?

Okay, now let’s talk about Windscribe. This VPN is all about online freedom and privacy.

They have a really cool feature called R.O.B.E.R.T. that blocks ads and trackers.

Plus, they have a free plan! It’s pretty awesome for those on a budget.

Also, explore our favorite Windscribe alternatives…

Key Benefits

• Strong Privacy Focus: Windscribe has a strict no-logs policy. They don’t track your activity.
• R.O.B.E.R.T.: This powerful tool blocks ads, malware, and even social media trackers.
• Secure Hotspot: Turn your computer into a secure Wi-Fi router.
• Windflix: Specialized servers for unblocking streaming services like Netflix.
• Free Plan Available: Try Windscribe with limited features at no cost.

Pricing

• Custom Plan: $0.00//month
• Yearly Plan: $5.75/month
• Monthly Plan: $9.00/month

Feature Comparison

To help you choose the best VPN, let’s compare these two VPN providers feature by feature and see how ExpressVPN vs Windscribe truly stack up.

This ExpressVPN vs Windscribe comparison will clarify whether ExpressVPN or Windscribe is the right VPN service for you.

1. Device Compatibility

• ExpressVPN and Windscribe both offer apps for all major platforms, ensuring you can use the VPN on nearly any device.
• ExpressVPN also has apps for routers and smart TVs, expanding your VPN connection to your entire home network.

Verdict: ExpressVPN offers wider device compatibility.

2. Server Locations

• ExpressVPN has a larger network than Windscribe, with VPN server locations in 94 countries. This gives you more options to connect to VPN servers worldwide.
• Windscribe has servers in 69 countries, offering a decent selection of server locations.

Verdict: ExpressVPN provides more server locations for a potentially faster and more reliable VPN connection.

3. Speed

• In our speed tests, ExpressVPN was faster than Windscribe, which is crucial for activities like streaming and downloading large files.
• While generally good, Windscribe’s speeds can be inconsistent, potentially causing buffering when you use the VPN.

Verdict: ExpressVPN takes the lead in the speed category.

4. Security

• ExpressVPN and Windscribe both offer strong security features like AES-256 encryption and a kill switch, ensuring your data is protected even if your VPN connection drops.
• ExpressVPN supports a wider range of VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and its own Lightway protocol. Windscribe uses the WireGuard VPN protocol.

Verdict: Both VPNs are secure, but ExpressVPN offers more protocol options.

5. Privacy

• ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, a location with strong privacy laws. ExpressVPN doesn’t keep any logs of your activity, so even if authorities request data when you’re not using a VPN, they have nothing to provide.
• Windscribe is based in Canada, a Five Eyes alliance member; however, Windscribe doesn’t keep any logs either, protecting your privacy.

Verdict: Due to its location, ExpressVPN is the better choice for privacy.

6. Streaming

• ExpressVPN is fantastic for streaming and can unblock services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. We confirmed that ExpressVPN works seamlessly with these platforms.
• Windscribe can unblock some streaming services, but it’s not as reliable as ExpressVPN.

Verdict: For streaming, ExpressVPN is the better VPN.

7. Ease of Use

• Both VPNs offer user-friendly apps, making it simple to connect to the VPN.
• Windscribe offers more granular control over its VPN connection with features like port forwarding, which can be helpful for advanced users who want to bypass the VPN for specific applications.

Verdict: Both VPNs are easy to use, but Windscribe offers more advanced options.

What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?

• Consider your needs: Why do you need a VPN? Is it for streaming, torrenting, online gaming, or simply enhancing your online privacy? Different VPNs excel in other areas.
• Check for advanced features. Look for features like split tunneling (routing some of your traffic through the VPN and the rest through your regular internet connection), a kill switch (cutting your internet connection if the VPN drops), and obfuscation (disguising your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic).
• Read independent reviews: Don’t rely on the VPN provider’s website. Check out reviews from reputable sources like PCMag, TechRadar, and CNET to get an unbiased opinion.
• Pay attention to customer support. A good VPN provider should offer responsive and helpful customer support if you encounter any issues.
• Consider a more extended subscription plan, as it often provides significant savings compared to monthly plans.

Final Verdict

So, which one is best in this Windscribe vs ExpressVPN showdown? While both Windscribe and ExpressVPN are strong contenders in the VPN industry, ExpressVPN is better overall.

It offers better speeds and has a much larger server network, making it a top choice for streaming and a reliable VPN for streaming services like Netflix.

ExpressVPN is also incredibly user-friendly, with intuitive apps for all your devices.

Although ExpressVPN doesn’t offer a free plan, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you ample time to test its features.

ExpressVPN is one of the premium VPN services available. It often offers deals that include three months for free.

However, Windscribe has its own strengths. Windscribe is the better choice for budget-conscious users, as Windscribe offers a free plan with a decent set of features.

Windscribe is also very secure. The Windscribe app offers advanced features like port forwarding, giving you more control over your VPN tunnel. 

You can even use the Windscribe app on another device to control your VPN connection remotely.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your needs. Do you need a VPN for streaming? Is a free plan important?

Compare Windscribe and ExpressVPN carefully and see how ExpressVPN and Windscribe measure up to your priorities. 

More of ExpressVPN

Here’s a quick look at how ExpressVPN stacks up against alternatives:

• ExpressVPN vs NordVPN: ExpressVPN: user-friendly, fast. NordVPN: more features, sometimes better price.
• ExpressVPN vs PureVPN: ExpressVPN: faster, more reliable for streaming, better privacy.
• ExpressVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark: unlimited connections, cheaper long-term. ExpressVPN: faster, more server locations.
• ExpressVPN vs ProtonVPN: ExpressVPN: faster, better for streaming. ProtonVPN: strong privacy, free option.
• ExpressVPN vs PrivadoVPN: ExpressVPN offers better performance, is easier to use, and has more servers. PrivadoVPN is budget-friendly and privacy-focused.
• ExpressVPN vs AdGuard VPN: ExpressVPN is: comprehensive VPN. AdGuard VPN: unique ad-blocking integration.
• ExpressVPN vs Virtual Shield: ExpressVPN: more features, better performance.
• ExpressVPN vs StrongVPN: Both have strong encryption. ExpressVPN: larger network, broader compatibility.
• ExpressVPN vs FastestVPN: ExpressVPN: faster, more servers. FastestVPN: budget-friendly.
• ExpressVPN vs AuraVPN: ExpressVPN focuses on VPN. AuraVPN includes identity theft protection.
• ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost: ExpressVPN: faster, more consistent for streaming. CyberGhost: user-friendly, specialized servers.
• ExpressVPN vs McAfee VPN: ExpressVPN is: dedicated VPN with more features, better performance.
• ExpressVPN vs Private Internet Access: ExpressVPN: user-friendly, better for streaming. PIA: customizable privacy settings.
• ExpressVPN vs Mysterium: ExpressVPN: traditional, reliable servers. Mysterium: decentralized network.

More of Windscribe

We’ve explored alternatives to Windscribe, so how does Windscribe stack up directly against them?

• Windscribe vs NordVPN: NordVPN generally offers faster speeds and a larger server network. Windscribe is known for its user-friendly interface and free plan with limited data.
• Windscribe vs PureVPN: PureVPN has a larger server network. Windscribe is known for its ease of use, especially for beginners, and offers more features on its free plan.
• Windscribe vs SurfsharkVPN: Surfshark is typically faster, allows unlimited connections, and has more features. Windscribe is user-friendly and has a free plan with unlimited connections.
• Windscribe vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN focuses on strong security and privacy, and often provides faster speeds on paid plans. Windscribe is known for its simple interface and free option, which has more server locations and data than ProtonVPN’s free plan.
• Windscribe vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN often provides more consistent speeds and a stronger focus on privacy. Windscribe has a smaller server network but a user-friendly free plan.
• Windscribe vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN excels at ad and tracker blocking. Windscribe is a general-purpose VPN that focuses on ease of use and offers ad blocking through its R.O.B.E.R.T. feature.
• Windscribe vs Virtual Shield: Windscribe offers a more established brand and a slightly larger server network than the very basic Virtual Shield. Windscribe also has a more extensive free plan.
• Windscribe vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is known for its robust encryption and reliable connections. Windscribe is simpler to use and has a free plan.
• Windscribe vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN is a budget-friendly option. Windscribe offers a free plan and a user-friendly interface.
• Windscribe vs AuraVPN: AuraVPN includes identity theft protection. Windscribe focuses on providing a simple, user-friendly VPN with a free option.
• Windscribe vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost offers user-friendly apps and specialized servers. Windscribe is simpler but has a smaller server network.
• Windscribe vs McAfee VPN: Windscribe generally offers a more feature-rich VPN experience than the basic VPN from McAfee.
• Windscribe vs Private Internet Access: PIA offers a significantly larger server network and allows unlimited connections. Windscribe is known for its ease of use and free plan.
• Windscribe vs Mysterium: Mysterium is a decentralized VPN. Windscribe uses a traditional server network known for its user-friendly interface and free option.

Frequently Asked Questions