⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Windscribe Pro starts at $5.75/month on the yearly plan. Malwarebytes plans start at $44.99/yr.
- Best for: Windscribe for streaming, free VPN users, and many devices. Malwarebytes for people who already run its antivirus software.
- Key difference: Windscribe has a free plan and unlimited simultaneous connections. Malwarebytes has no free version and caps devices by plan.
- Our pick: Windscribe for most users. It packs more VPN tools, more server locations, and a real free tier.
Malwarebytes is famous for cleaning malware off computers.
Windscribe is famous for giving away a free VPN that actually works.
Both now sell a VPN service to protect your IP address.
But one is a VPN company first, and the other is an antivirus brand.
That single difference shapes speed, streaming, price, and privacy.
Overview
We reviewed documentation, pricing pages, and user reviews in Windscribe vs Malwarebytes VPN.
Our writers also spent hands-on time with each one.
Those observations appear in the “What Our Team Noticed” sections below.
We compare encryption, speed tests, streaming, pricing, and privacy side by side.
Want more depth? See our full Windscribe VPN review and Malwarebytes privacy VPN review.
By the end, you will know which virtual private network fits you.
What is Windscribe?
Windscribe is a VPN service built in Toronto, Canada.
It encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address.
The brand is known for flexibility and transparency, unlike NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
Windscribe servers sit in over 110 cities across 66 countries.
You get a desktop app, mobile apps, and browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
The apps run on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux.
Its generous free plan is the main reason people try it first.
Here is a quick video walkthrough of the Windscribe apps.
Windscribe
Start free with 10GB of data each month. Upgrade to Windscribe Pro for unlimited data and all 110 locations. Every plan allows unlimited devices.
Windscribe Pricing
Windscribe subscription options are simple and flexible. Here is the full breakdown.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Build A Plan | Custom | Users who need only a few server locations |
| Yearly Plan | $5.75/month | Regular users who want every feature |
| Monthly Plan | $9.00/month | Short trips or month-to-month flexibility |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: No trial, but a free plan gives 10GB of data per month with a confirmed email. Without an email, you get 2GB.
Money-back guarantee: Windscribe’s money back guarantee lasts only three days. It applies only if you used less than 10GB.
📌 Note: Monthly billing is $9. The annual plan costs $69, which works out to $5.75/month. Build A Plan charges $1 per location, with a two-location minimum. Each location adds 10GB to your monthly data limit. Payments include credit card, PayPal, Bitcoin, other crypto, and gift cards.
⚠️ Warning: Three days is a very short refund window. Test the free service first before you pay. Also watch for Windscribe deals around Black Friday.
Key Benefits of Windscribe
Here is what makes Windscribe worth a look:
- Unlimited devices: Windscribe allows unlimited simultaneous connections on free and paid plans. One account can cover your whole household.
- Built-in ad blocker: R.O.B.E.R.T. blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS and IP level. You can build custom block lists.
- Fast protocols: It supports WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. You can switch VPN protocols in a few clicks.
- Split tunneling: Choose which apps send VPN traffic and which use your normal connection.
- Leak protection: DNS and IP leak protection keeps your browsing history away from your ISP.
- Anonymous sign-up: Since late 2025, you can create an account with a random hash. No email or password is needed.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer spent several days testing Windscribe across a laptop and phone. Here is what stood out:
Windscribe Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Free plan with 10GB of data every month
- Unlimited simultaneous connections on every plan
- R.O.B.E.R.T. blocks ads, trackers, and malware
- Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney Plus
❌ Cons
- Refund window lasts only three days
- Around 500 VPN servers, far fewer than NordVPN
- No live chat support for quick help
What is Malwarebytes VPN?
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN comes from a well-known anti malware solution brand.
It sits beside other Malwarebytes products like Browser Guard and Premium Security.
So how does Malwarebytes Privacy VPN work?
It routes your traffic through a secure, encrypted tunnel using the WireGuard protocol.
That hides your online activities from your ISP and public Wi-Fi snoops.
The 470+ Malwarebytes servers span 45+ countries on Mullvad’s network.
Its worldwide servers are fewer than most VPNs offer.
The apps cover Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
The Mac app needs macOS Catalina or newer.
This short review video shows the app in action.
Malwarebytes VPN
A simple VPN from a trusted security brand. Try it free for seven days. A 60-day money-back guarantee backs every plan.
Malwarebytes VPN Pricing
Malwarebytes sells bundles rather than one VPN plan. Here is how they break down.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $44.99/yr | Basic antivirus protection |
| Plus | $59.99/yr | Antivirus plus the Privacy VPN |
| Total | $159.99/yr | Full security, VPN, and identity protection |
Pricing verified September 2026.
Free trial: Malwarebytes offers a 7-day free trial of the Privacy VPN.
Money-back guarantee: You get 60 days to ask for a refund. That trial period is 20 times longer than Windscribe’s.
📌 Note: Payment works with PayPal and credit or debit cards. Crypto is not accepted. Plus includes all the same features as the standalone VPN, plus antivirus. Malwarebytes runs no discounts on VPN subscriptions.
⚠️ Price check: Some review sites list standalone VPN plans at $39.99 per year for one device, $49.99 for three, and $59.99 for five. VAT can add up to 20% in some countries. Confirm the final price at checkout.
Key Benefits of Malwarebytes VPN
Here is where Malwarebytes VPN earns its place:
- WireGuard speed: The WireGuard protocol is faster than older VPN protocols. Setup takes minutes on your operating system.
- Strong encryption: AES-256 encryption covers every VPN connection. A private DNS server does not track your traffic.
- Kill switch: If the tunnel drops, Malwarebytes protects your real IP by cutting all traffic.
- MultiHop routing: Send traffic through two servers in different countries. This adds an extra privacy layer.
- Connection Rules: Let certain apps or IP addresses bypass the VPN. Handy for banking apps.
- Support quality: Reviews describe customer support as solid, with quick replies to a support ticket. Help with issues downloading is easily accessible.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer installed Malwarebytes Privacy VPN on a Windows laptop and used it for everyday browsing. Here is what stood out:
Malwarebytes VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- WireGuard protocol and AES-256 encryption
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Bundles neatly with Malwarebytes antivirus
- Kill switch and MultiHop included
❌ Cons
- Struggles with Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
- No Linux, router, or Fire TV Stick apps
- US-based, inside the Five Eyes alliance
Feature Comparison
Ready to see how Windscribe VPN and Malwarebytes VPN stack up? We compare nine important features, then pricing.
| Feature | Windscribe | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $5.75/month (yearly) | $44.99/yr |
| Free Plan | ✅ 10GB/month | ❌ |
| Server Network | 110+ cities, 66 countries | 470+ servers, 45+ countries |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | Limited by plan |
| Built-in Ad Blocker | ✅ R.O.B.E.R.T. | ❌ (separate Browser Guard) |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ✅ Connection Rules |
| Kill Switch | ✅ Firewall | ✅ |
| Static IP / Port Forwarding | ✅ | ❌ |
| Linux & Router Support | ✅ | ❌ |
| Best For | Streaming and many devices | Existing Malwarebytes users |
1. Encryption & VPN Protocols
Windscribe: Windscribe uses AES-256 encryption with WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. You can pick OpenVPN UDP or TCP and even change ports. Every protocol works in the Windows client, Android app, and Mac app.
Malwarebytes VPN: Malwarebytes Privacy VPN also uses AES-256, but only over WireGuard. There is no protocol menu to tweak. That keeps things simple for beginners.
2. Speed & Connection Performance
Windscribe: Published speed tests show OpenVPN at 270-330Mbps. WireGuard jumped past 950Mbps, which maxed out the test line. Other tests found a 19% drop on nearby servers and 31% on distant ones. Windscribe’s apps connect in a few seconds, often just 1-2.
Malwarebytes VPN: Download speeds fall harder here. Tests show drops of 34% on nearby servers and 62% on distant ones. Reviewers also reported high ping while gaming. Malwarebytes is not the fastest VPN here, especially when many users share the same server.
⚠️ Warning: Windscribe’s Windows version lost 43% of download speed in one test, versus 20% on Mac. Its free servers ran about 15% slower than paid ones. Using a VPN always costs some speed, so pick the closest VPN server for the best connection speeds.
3. Streaming
Windscribe: Windscribe unblocked every Netflix library tested, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It also handles BBC iPlayer, ITV, Channel 4, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney Plus. The free version can stream roughly 7 hours before the data cap hits.
Malwarebytes VPN: Streaming is its weakest area. Reviews report frequent failures with Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. It has no dedicated streaming or virtual servers and no smart DNS. Many VPNs handle these platforms far better.
4. Ad & Tracker Blocking
Windscribe: R.O.B.E.R.T. is a customizable DNS and IP level ad blocker. It can block ads, trackers, and malware in the desktop app and Windscribe’s browser extensions. It works on all traffic through your network adapter, not just one browser.
Malwarebytes VPN: The VPN itself has no ad blocker. You need Browser Guard, a separate free browser extension. It stops ads and scam pages but only inside your browser.
5. Split Tunneling
Windscribe: Split tunneling lets you pick which apps use the VPN. You can also allow local network traffic, so printers and shared drives keep working. That helps on a busy Wi Fi hotspot too.
Malwarebytes VPN: Connection Rules do the same basic job. You can let certain apps or IP addresses skip the tunnel. It is simpler, with fewer options.
6. Kill Switch & Leak Protection
Windscribe: The kill switch, which Windscribe calls Firewall, blocks internet access if the VPN connection drops. DNS and IP leak protection aims for exactly zero requests outside the tunnel. You can also set which DNS to use when connected or disconnected.
Malwarebytes VPN: Its kill switch blocks all network traffic when the tunnel fails. A private DNS server helps prevent DNS leaks. There are fewer settings, but the basics are covered.
7. Privacy & Logging
Windscribe: The privacy policy says no activity or browsing logs. It keeps only total bandwidth and a last-activity timestamp in RAM, wiped after each session. Audits found no major issues. Inactive accounts get deleted, so relevant data does not linger.
Malwarebytes VPN: It does not store DNS requests, IP addresses, or bandwidth usage. It may keep anonymized data, like a public key. So, is Malwarebytes Privacy VPN safe? For everyday browsing, yes. Reviews call the policy unclear and flag the long lack of third party audits.
⚠️ Warning: Both companies sit in Five Eyes countries. Windscribe is in Canada, and Malwarebytes is in the US. Malwarebytes also struggles to bypass censorship in places like China.
8. Devices & Advanced Features
Windscribe: Apps cover Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. The browser extension only proxies browser traffic and can spoof your user agent. Power users get static IP addresses, port forwarding, and config files for routers. The desktop app also shows connection details like protocol and port.
Malwarebytes VPN: Support stops at Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. There are no apps for Linux, routers, Fire TV Stick, or gaming consoles. The Windows app and iOS app offer auto connect and auto launch, but little else for tinkerers.
9. Extra Security Tools
Windscribe: Windscribe stays focused on the VPN. Its extras are privacy tools, like tracker blocking and the free proxy server extension.
Malwarebytes VPN: This is where Malwarebytes shines. Bigger bundles add real-time antivirus for Windows devices, identity theft protection, and dark web alerts. Its free AdwCleaner tool can even kill a stubborn pop up window.
10. Pricing & Cost
Here are both price lists side by side.
| Plan | Windscribe | Malwarebytes VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ✅ Free plan, 10GB/month | ❌ 7-day trial only |
| Entry | Build A Plan: Custom | Standard: $44.99/yr |
| Mid | Yearly Plan: $5.75/month | Plus: $59.99/yr |
| Top | Monthly Plan: $9.00/month | Total: $159.99/yr |
Windscribe: The yearly plan unlocks unlimited data and every location. Build A Plan suits people who need only two or three countries. The free plan covers light use at no cost.
Malwarebytes VPN: Standard is antivirus only, so the VPN starts with Plus. That is decent value if you want antivirus too. For VPN alone, you pay for tools you may not use.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A free VPN | Windscribe | 10GB free each month |
| Streaming | Windscribe | Unblocks Netflix and BBC iPlayer |
| Many devices | Windscribe | Unlimited simultaneous device connections |
| Antivirus plus VPN | Malwarebytes VPN | One bundle, one bill |
| Long refund window | Malwarebytes VPN | 60 days versus three |
| Torrenting | Windscribe | Port forwarding helps you download torrents |
| Beginner-friendly | Malwarebytes VPN | Fewer settings to learn |
💰 Your Budget
Windscribe’s free plan costs nothing, and paid plans stay low. Malwarebytes only makes sense on price if you also want its antivirus.
🔌 Your Devices
Windscribe covers Linux, routers, and Fire TV, plus unlimited devices. Malwarebytes limits you to four platforms and fewer simultaneous connections.
🎬 Your Streaming Habits
Windscribe is the clear pick for Netflix, iPlayer, and Prime. Malwarebytes often fails on the big platforms.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Malwarebytes is dead simple, with one protocol and few toggles. Windscribe packs more advanced features, which can feel busy at first.
🔒 Your Privacy Needs
Windscribe offers anonymous hash accounts and does not track your MAC address. Malwarebytes needs a Malwarebytes account tied to your email.
🛟 Support Options
Malwarebytes support gets good marks for fast replies. Windscribe skips live chat support and relies on tickets, guides, and a help bot.
Switching Guide
Already paying for one of these? Here is what changes if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Windscribe to Malwarebytes VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- A 60-day refund window
- Antivirus in the same bundle
- MultiHop double-server routing
❌ What you’ll lose:
- The free plan and unlimited devices
- R.O.B.E.R.T. ad blocking
- Reliable streaming access
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel Windscribe auto-renew in your account
- Start the Malwarebytes 7-day free trial
- Install the apps and turn on the kill switch
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes VPN to Windscribe?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Better streaming and faster WireGuard speeds
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Static IPs, port forwarding, and Linux apps
❌ What you’ll lose:
- The antivirus bundle
- The 60-day money-back guarantee
- A simpler, one-protocol setup
📋 How to switch:
- Keep Malwarebytes antivirus if you want it
- Create a free Windscribe account
- Test the free plan, then upgrade to Pro
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on home users and small households. We didn’t test gaming on consoles, business plans, or long-term torrenting. Speed results come from published tests, and your internet connection will change them. Prices and features reflect September 2026 and may shift.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Windscribe |
| 🎬 Streaming | Windscribe |
| ⚡ Speed | Windscribe |
| 🔒 Privacy Features | Windscribe |
| 👶 Ease of Use | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🛟 Refunds & Support | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🔌 Devices | Windscribe |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Windscribe |
🏆 WINNER: WINDSCRIBE
Windscribe wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Free VPN users, streamers, and homes with many devices
These two tools are built for different people. Windscribe is a full-featured VPN with a free plan and unlimited devices. Malwarebytes is a security suite with a simple VPN added on.
Malwarebytes VPN is fine if you already trust its antivirus and want one bill. It is easy to use, and the 60-day refund window is generous.
For almost everyone else comparing VPN services, we recommend Windscribe. It is faster, better for streaming, and more flexible for the money. Windscribe Pro matches any premium VPN on core features.
More of Windscribe Compared
Here is how Windscribe holds up against other popular VPN providers:
Windscribe wins on: a real free plan, unlimited devices, and flexible Build A Plan pricing.
NordVPN wins on: 8,800+ servers, live chat help, and a 30-day refund window.
Windscribe wins on: a built-in ad blocker, static IP options, and unlimited connections.
ProtonVPN wins on: Swiss jurisdiction, a free tier without a data cap, and open-source apps.
Windscribe vs Private Internet Access
Windscribe wins on: free access, simpler apps, and stronger streaming results.
Private Internet Access wins on: a much bigger server list, deep app settings, and cheaper long plans.
More of Malwarebytes VPN Compared
Here is how Malwarebytes VPN compares with other vpns you might consider:
Malwarebytes wins on: the antivirus bundle, fewer settings, and a longer refund window.
NordVPN wins on: far more servers, reliable streaming, and a Panama base outside Five Eyes.
Malwarebytes VPN vs ExpressVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: a lower yearly price, a 7-day free trial, and built-in security tools.
ExpressVPN wins on: streaming access, router apps, and more countries to connect through.
Malwarebytes wins on: a simpler app, MultiHop on every plan, and its antivirus pedigree.
Surfshark wins on: unlimited devices, stronger streaming, and many more server locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Windscribe a good VPN?
Yes. It pairs AES-256 encryption with WireGuard speeds, a no-logs policy, and unlimited devices. The small server network and three-day refund window are its main weak spots.
Is Windscribe VPN really free?
Yes, the free plan gives 10GB per month with a confirmed email, or 2GB without one. Paid plans remove the cap and unlock every location.
Which country is Windscribe from?
Windscribe is based in Toronto, Canada. Canada belongs to the Five Eyes alliance, but the company keeps no activity logs to hand over.
Is Malwarebytes VPN any good?
It is decent for basic online privacy, especially bundled with antivirus. Streaming, speed, and device support lag behind dedicated VPNs.
Does Malwarebytes VPN log data?
Malwarebytes says it does not store DNS requests, IP addresses, or bandwidth usage. It may keep anonymized data, such as a public key for connections.
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