⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Windscribe starts at $5.75/month on the yearly plan. AVG VPN starts at $4.99/month inside AVG’s bundles.
- Best for: Windscribe suits free users, big households, and privacy fans. AVG VPN suits beginners who already use AVG antivirus.
- Key difference: Windscribe adds split tunneling, an ad blocker, and unlimited devices. AVG keeps things to one button.
- Our pick: Windscribe for most users. It pairs an audited no-logs policy with a generous free plan.
The cheaper VPN on paper isn’t the better deal here.
AVG VPN starts at $4.99/month inside AVG’s security bundles.
Windscribe costs a bit more, but it also has a free plan.
That free version alone gives you 10GB of data every month.
The real gaps are privacy, features, and device limits.
Here’s how Windscribe vs AVG VPN plays out for everyday users.
Overview
This comparison covers pricing, privacy, speed, streaming, and ease of use.
We reviewed documentation, pricing pages, and independent reviews for both tools.
Our writers also spent hands-on time with each VPN service.
Those notes appear in the “What Our Team Noticed” sections below.
What is Windscribe?
Windscribe is a VPN service built in Canada.
It encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address.
The company is known for flexibility and transparency.
That sets it apart from bigger names like NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
You get a desktop app, mobile apps, and browser extensions.
Windscribe’s apps run on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux.
Watch this quick overview to see the apps in action.
Windscribe
Start free with 10GB of data each month. Upgrade for unlimited data and all 110 locations. No device cap on any plan.
Windscribe Pricing
Windscribe subscription options are simple. Here’s the full breakdown.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Build A Plan | Custom | People who need only a few server locations |
| Yearly Plan | $5.75/month | Most users who want Windscribe Pro |
| Monthly Plan | $9.00/month | Short trips or testing the paid apps |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: There’s no classic trial. The free plan gives you 10GB of data per month with a confirmed email, or 2GB without one.
Money-back guarantee: Windscribe’s money back guarantee lasts only three days. It applies only if you used less than 10GB.
📌 Note: The yearly plan bills $69 upfront. Build a Plan charges $1 per location, with a two-location minimum. Each location adds 10GB of data per month. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, Bitcoin, other crypto, or gift cards.
⚠️ Warning: Three days is a short refund window. Test the free service first, then watch for Windscribe deals during holiday sales.
Key Benefits of Windscribe
Here’s what makes Windscribe worth a look:
- Generous free plan: You get 10GB of data monthly with a confirmed email. Published tests put that at about seven hours of streaming.
- No device cap: Unlimited simultaneous connections come with free and paid plans. One account covers every phone, laptop, and TV.
- Built-in ad blocker: R.O.B.E.R.T. blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS and IP level. You choose which lists to switch on.
- Pay for what you use: Build a Plan lets you buy only the server locations you need.
- Strict no-logs: Windscribe doesn’t store your browsing history or connection logs. Session data sits in RAM and is deleted afterward.
- Anonymous accounts: Since late 2025, you can sign up with a random hash. No email or password is needed.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer used Windscribe on a Windows laptop, a Mac, two phones, and an Amazon Fire TV. They tracked speeds and connection details on each device. Here’s what stood out from testing Windscribe:
Windscribe Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Free plan with 10GB of data per month
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on every plan
- R.O.B.E.R.T. blocks ads, trackers, and malware
- Split tunneling, static IPs, and port forwarding
❌ Cons
- Money-back guarantee lasts only three days
- No live chat support, only tickets and a knowledge base
- Around 500 servers, far fewer than NordVPN
What is AVG VPN?
AVG VPN, also called AVG Secure VPN, comes from the antivirus brand AVG.
AVG is owned by Avast and based in the Czech Republic.
The VPN hides your online activity from hackers, ISPs, and governments.
Your encrypted data travels through a secure tunnel to an AVG server.
The app looks a lot like AVG’s antivirus software.
One click on the main screen turns protection on.
Here’s a short video walkthrough of the AVG apps.
AVG VPN
Try it free for 60 days on up to 10 devices. The kill switch works from the first click.
AVG VPN Pricing
AVG sells its VPN through a few security bundles. Here’s the lineup.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| AVG Antivirus Free | Free | Basic virus protection only (no VPN) |
| AVG Internet Security | $4.99/month | Antivirus and firewall users |
| AVG Ultimate | $4.99/month | Users who want the VPN plus antivirus |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: New users get 60 days free. You must create an account and add a payment option first.
Money-back guarantee: AVG gives you 30 days on paid subscriptions.
📌 Note: There’s no monthly subscription. The shortest paid term is one year.
⚠️ Price check: Some review sites list the standalone AVG Secure VPN at around $54 per year. Confirm the final price at checkout, and cancel before the trial ends if you don’t want to pay.
Key Benefits of AVG VPN
Here’s what makes AVG VPN worth considering:
- One-click setup: AVG is built for beginners. You’re protected in a few seconds, with no setup to learn.
- 10 devices at once: One subscription covers your computer, laptops, phone, and Android TV. That’s generous next to many VPNs.
- Public Wi-Fi protection: It guards banking logins, emails, and browsing on open networks. Your sensitive data stays unreadable.
- Shared server IPs: Many AVG users share one server IP. That makes it harder to trace any single person.
- Optimized servers: Dedicated servers handle streaming and torrenting traffic.
- Mimic protocol: AVG’s own protocol is designed to slip past VPN blockers.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer ran AVG Secure VPN on Windows laptops, an Android phone, and an iPad while traveling. Here’s what stood out:
AVG VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- One-click connection from the main screen
- 60-day free trial for new users
- Connects up to 10 devices at once
- Kill switch is on by default
❌ Cons
- No split tunneling or ad blocking
- Keeps connection event logs for two years
- No independent audit of its privacy claims
Feature Comparison
Here’s how Windscribe and AVG VPN compare across nine key areas. Pricing gets its own breakdown at the end.
| Feature | Windscribe | AVG VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $5.75/month (yearly) | $4.99/month |
| Free Plan | ✅ 10GB/month | ❌ 60-day trial only |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | 10 |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ❌ |
| Ad Blocker | ✅ R.O.B.E.R.T. | ❌ |
| Kill Switch | ✅ Firewall | ✅ On by default |
| Static IP | ✅ | ❌ |
| Independent Audit | ✅ | ❌ |
| Best For | Privacy fans and power users | Beginners on AVG antivirus |
1. Ad and Malware Blocking
Windscribe: R.O.B.E.R.T. is a DNS and IP level blocker for ads, trackers, and malware. You pick which categories to block and can add custom rules. It can filter traffic across your whole network adapter, not just the browser.
AVG VPN: AVG Secure VPN has no built-in ad blocker. It sticks to encryption and hiding your online activity. To block ads, you’d need a separate tool.
2. Streaming
Windscribe: Windscribe can unblock US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus. Published tests show it opened every Netflix library tried, including Australia, Canada, and Japan. It also scored full marks on ITV and Channel 4, with no real buffering reported.
AVG VPN: AVG’s streaming servers reach Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Regular servers may get blocked on streaming sites. It ranks #29 of 61 VPNs for streaming capabilities, unblocking US Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
⚠️ Warning: Windscribe’s free version streams for about seven hours before hitting the data limit. Some services, like Hulu, may not work on the free plan at all.
3. Protocols and Encryption
Windscribe: Windscribe uses AES-256 encryption across WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN, including OpenVPN UDP. You can switch VPN protocols in any of the Windscribe apps. Config generators let you set up routers and devices without a native app.
AVG VPN: AVG also uses AES 256-bit encryption. Its default protocol is Mimic, a proprietary option built to get past VPN blockers. Mimic is fast, but AVG shares little about how secure it is, and protocol options are limited overall.
4. Server Network
Windscribe: Windscribe runs around 500 VPN servers in over 110 cities across 66 countries. That’s small next to NordVPN’s 8,800+ servers. Upgrading to a paid plan opens all 110 locations, and you can add static IP addresses for a fixed location.
AVG VPN: AVG Secure VPN offers over 700 servers in more than 50 countries. Independent counts vary widely, from 36 to 66 countries. The network leans on Europe and North America, with spots like the UK, Canada, and France.
5. Privacy and Logging
Windscribe: Windscribe has a strict no-logs policy. It keeps only total bandwidth used and a last-activity timestamp, stored in RAM and deleted after the session. Audits found no major issues, though its Canada base sits inside the Five Eyes Alliance.
Leak protection matters just as much. Windscribe blocks DNS leaks and IP leaks, and you can choose which DNS to use when connected or disconnected. It also removes inactive accounts, so relevant data doesn’t sit around.
AVG VPN: AVG Secure VPN’s policy says it doesn’t log your originating IP, DNS queries, browsing history, or emails. But it records connection timestamps and data usage to plan server capacity. Connection event logs stay for two years, and its transparency reports show past data sharing with authorities.
⚠️ Warning: AVG Secure VPN hasn’t had an independent audit. Its Czech base is also subject to EU data retention laws and intelligence-sharing deals.
6. Speed and Performance
Windscribe: Published tests clocked OpenVPN at 270–330Mbps and WireGuard above 950Mbps. Another test peaked at 700Mbps. One review ranked it among the top five fastest VPNs, next to NordVPN and Hotspot Shield.
Speed loss was 19% on nearby servers and 31% on distant ones. Apps usually connect in under six seconds, often in one or two. Free Windscribe servers run about 15% slower than paid ones.
AVG VPN: AVG’s connection speed is acceptable, not fast. Tests averaged 31% of base download speeds and 19% of base upload speeds. That’s slower than most VPN services in the same price range.
💡 Pro Tip: One test saw Windscribe’s Windows version lose 43% of download speed, versus 20% on Mac. If the Windows client feels slow, switch to WireGuard.
7. Apps and Device Support
Windscribe: Windscribe covers Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux, plus Amazon Fire TV. Windscribe’s browser extensions work on Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge, and they spoof your user agent. Each browser extension acts as a proxy server that only proxies browser traffic, not your whole device.
AVG VPN: AVG runs on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Android TV, with up to 10 devices per subscription. Install it from AVG’s site, launch it, and click ON. You can switch server locations anytime, and the app comes in multiple languages.
8. Split Tunneling and Advanced Features
Windscribe: Split tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN. Your browser can go through the tunnel while local network traffic stays direct. It works in the Windows app, Android app, and Mac app. Advanced users also get port forwarding and static IP options.
AVG VPN: AVG Secure VPN lacks advanced features like split tunneling, multi-hop, and ad blocking. The settings menu is basic, and its user experience ranks #36 of 61 VPNs. Instead, AVG bundles the VPN with antivirus in AVG Ultimate.
9. Kill Switch and Local Network
Windscribe: Windscribe calls its kill switch “Firewall.” It cuts internet access if the VPN connection drops. You can also allow or block LAN access, handy on a public Wi Fi hotspot when you still need a printer.
AVG VPN: AVG’s internet kill switch is on by default, so you’re covered without touching settings. AVG’s wider suite also includes a virus scan and cleaner, sold apart from the VPN.
10. Pricing and Cost
Here are both lineups side by side.
| Tier | Windscribe | AVG VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Build A Plan: Custom | AVG Antivirus Free: Free (no VPN) |
| Mid | Yearly Plan: $5.75/month | AVG Internet Security: $4.99/month |
| Top | Monthly Plan: $9.00/month | AVG Ultimate: $4.99/month |
| Free VPN access | ✅ 10GB/month | ❌ 60-day trial |
| Refund window | 3 days | 30 days |
Windscribe: Windscribe’s monthly billing is $9, while yearly billing drops it to $5.75. The free plan and Build a Plan give budget users real options. Yearly and monthly plans include unlimited data.
AVG VPN: AVG looks cheaper at $4.99/month, but you commit to a full year. The VPN also comes inside security bundles. If you already pay for AVG antivirus, that bundle makes sense.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | Windscribe | Free plan with 10GB monthly |
| Many devices | Windscribe | Unlimited simultaneous device connections |
| Strong privacy | Windscribe | Audited no-logs policy |
| Advanced settings | Windscribe | Split tunneling, static IP, port forwarding |
| Already on AVG antivirus | AVG VPN | Bundled in AVG Ultimate |
| Simplest possible app | AVG VPN | One button on the main screen |
| Long risk-free test | AVG VPN | 60-day trial plus 30-day refund |
💰 Your Budget
Windscribe’s free plan costs nothing and covers light use. AVG looks cheaper per month, but you pay for a year upfront.
🔌 Your Devices
Windscribe has no device cap and even runs on routers through config files. AVG covers up to 10 devices, including Android TV.
📺 Your Streaming Habits
Both unblock US Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Windscribe opened more libraries in published tests and handles more streaming services.
🎓 Your Experience Level
AVG is simpler, with one button and few settings. Windscribe packs in more options, which can feel busy for new users.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Start with Windscribe’s free plan, since its refund window is only three days. AVG’s 60-day trial is longer, but it needs a payment option.
🛟 Support Options
Windscribe has no live chat support, so tickets can take hours to get a reply. AVG’s help runs through its larger security brand. Check how fast each team will respond before you commit.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Windscribe to AVG VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- A 60-day free trial
- A 30-day money-back window
- VPN and antivirus in one bundle
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Split tunneling and the R.O.B.E.R.T. blocker
- Unlimited devices (AVG caps you at 10)
- An audited no-logs policy
📋 How to switch:
- Let your Windscribe plan expire or cancel it in your account.
- Download AVG VPN from the official site and start the trial.
- Click ON and pick a server. If it won’t install, check your device meets the minimum requirements.
🔄 Switching from AVG VPN to Windscribe?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- A free plan with 10GB of data
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Split tunneling, static IPs, and port forwarding
❌ What you’ll lose:
- AVG’s one-click simplicity
- The antivirus bundle
- The 30-day refund window
📋 How to switch:
- Turn off AVG’s auto-renewal before your term ends.
- Install Windscribe’s apps and confirm your email for 10GB.
- Turn on Firewall and R.O.B.E.R.T. in settings.
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on home users and small households. We didn’t test router setups, Linux apps, or torrenting speeds in depth. Server counts, prices, and streaming results change often, so treat these details as current for September 2026. If you live in a country with heavy censorship, your results may differ.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Windscribe |
| 🔒 Privacy & Logging | Windscribe |
| ⚡ Speed | Windscribe |
| 📺 Streaming | Windscribe |
| 🔌 Devices & Features | Windscribe |
| 👶 Ease of Use | AVG VPN |
| 🆓 Trial & Refunds | AVG VPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Windscribe |
🏆 WINNER: WINDSCRIBE
Windscribe wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Free VPN users, multi-device homes, and privacy-focused users
Windscribe and AVG VPN aim at different people. Windscribe is a premium VPN with a real free plan and audited privacy. AVG VPN is a simple add-on for people who already use AVG security apps.
AVG is a fair pick if you want one button and a long trial. But if privacy, connection speeds, or device limits matter, Windscribe is the better choice. That’s why we recommend Windscribe for most readers.
More of Windscribe Compared
Here’s how Windscribe stacks up against other VPN providers:
Windscribe wins on: a 10GB free tier, no device limit, and pay-per-location pricing
NordVPN wins on: 8,800+ servers, live chat help, and a longer refund window
Windscribe wins on: a free version, a lower yearly price, and custom R.O.B.E.R.T. block lists
ExpressVPN wins on: 24/7 chat support, wider country coverage, and a 30-day guarantee
Windscribe wins on: a free plan, Build a Plan flexibility, and static IP add-ons
Surfshark wins on: cheaper long-term plans, a bigger network, and live chat
Windscribe vs Private Internet Access
Windscribe wins on: a free plan, hash-based anonymous signups, and a built-in ad blocker with custom rules
Private Internet Access wins on: a much larger server list, open-source apps, and lower multi-year pricing
More of AVG VPN Compared
Here’s how AVG VPN compares with other VPNs:
AVG VPN wins on: a simpler app, a 60-day trial, and an antivirus bundle
NordVPN wins on: split tunneling, independent audits, and a far larger network
AVG VPN wins on: a longer free trial, AVG antivirus pairing, and a one-button layout
Surfshark wins on: unlimited devices, built-in ad blocking, and split tunneling
AVG VPN wins on: a longer trial, a simpler interface, and security bundles
ProtonVPN wins on: a Swiss base, independent audits, and a free plan with no time limit
AVG VPN vs Private Internet Access
AVG VPN wins on: easier setup, antivirus bundles, and a 60-day trial
Private Internet Access wins on: port forwarding, split tunneling, and unlimited devices
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Windscribe VPN really free?
Yes. The free plan gives you 10GB of data per month with a confirmed email, or 2GB without one. Upgrading unlocks unlimited data and every location.
Is AVG VPN free?
No. AVG offers a 60-day free trial, but you need an account and a payment option. After the trial, you pay for a yearly subscription.
Is Windscribe 100% safe?
No VPN is 100% safe. Windscribe comes close with AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and an audited no-logs policy. Its Canada headquarters is the main concern.
Does AVG VPN work with Netflix?
Yes, on its streaming servers. It unblocks US Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Regular servers may get blocked, so pick a streaming server first.
Which VPN is better than Windscribe?
NordVPN offers a bigger network, with over 8,800 servers. For a free VPN, though, few rivals match Windscribe’s 10GB plan and unlimited device connections.
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