Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
Windscribe and DotVPN, both VPN services, offer unique features to their users. Windscribe, based in Canada, scores a 57.5% rating and provides robust encryption with AES-256 and ChaCha20. It supports unlimited devices and includes features like a Kill Switch, Double VPN, and Split Tunneling. DotVPN, on the other hand, is based in Hong Kong and scores a 53.4% rating. It offers cheaper pricing and a larger number of servers, but lacks a no-logging policy. Both services fall short in server count and geographical coverage. Despite its higher price, Windscribe’s superior security features and unlimited device support make it the better choice for users prioritizing security and flexibility.
About Our VPN Rating Systems
Our reviews delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Ratings are based on our comprehensive research of 96 VPN companies. Out of 96 VPNs we reviewed, only 11 surpass the 75% threshold in our evaluation, while half of the reviewed services score below average (54.1%).
Why Read Our VPN Guide?
- Our VPN reviews are unbiased and data-driven. We are not affiliated to any of the VPN companies listed on this website.
- Our rating system covers diverse user needs. We delve deeply into each VPN service, scrutinizing aspects such as privacy, customer feedback, pricing, and usability to provide well-rounded insights.
Specifications: Windscribe vs DotVPN
| VPN Company | Windscirbe | DotVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Canada | Hong Kong |
| Cheapest Price | $5.75/mo over 12-month subscription | $2.99/mo |
| Monthly Price | $12.00 | $4.99 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | No |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-128, and 4096-bit |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec | OpenVPN, and Ipsec |
| Servers | 120 | 700 |
| Servers Countries | 69 | 10 |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited devices | 5 devices |
| Works in China? | Unlikely | Unlikely |
| Smart DNS | No | No |
| Kill Switch | Yes | No |
| Browser Extension | Yes | Yes |
| Double VPN | Yes | No |
| Ads Blocking | Yes | Yes |
| Split Tunneling | Yes | No |
| Third Party Audit | – | 0 |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat & Email | Email, and Submit online form |
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| iOS App | Yes | No |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Disney+, and HBO |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: DotVPN Better
DotVPN positions itself as an affordable option. The VPN charges $4.99/mo for month-to-month contract and a much cheaper $2.99/mo for those who are willing to subscribe in long term.
In comparison, Windscribe sets its price higher at $12/mo for monthly subscribers and $2.99/mo for those who are willing to commit to a 12-month contract.
Based on our market research, the average cost of VPN is $3.56/mo with a commitment period of 21 months. You should consider whether the additional features and services offered by Windscribe justify the higher cost, especially when comparing it to other available options that might offer similar services at a more economical rate.
Jurisdiction: DotVPN Better
The headquarters location of a VPN company is not just a geographical factor but a pivotal aspect that defines the legal framework within which a VPN operates.
Different countries have varying regulations regarding data retention, surveillance, and the extent to which government authorities can demand access to user data. For instance, companies based in countries that are part of the 14 Eyes surveillance alliance might be legally obligated to collect and share user data with government agencies. Conversely, a VPN company headquartered in a country with strong privacy laws and no mandatory data retention requirements can offer greater assurances of user privacy and data security.
Based in Hong Kong, DotVPN offers a significant privacy edge over Windscribe. The country’s absence of mandatory data retention laws provides a stark contrast to the more invasive surveillance and data-sharing practices prevalent in the 14-Eyes countries (such as Canada – Windscribe’s HQ location).
Servers Count & Geographical Coverage: Tie (Equally Bad)
Both Windscribe and DotVPN operate from relative small fleet of servers. Windscribe operates from 120 servers in 69 countries; similarly, DotVPN offers 700 servers spread over 10 countries. Both numbers are below market average of 1,679 servers according to our study. For users living in countries with limited servers, this might translate to slower speeds and potentially less stable connections.
Money Back Guarantee: DotVPN Better
DotVPN offers a substantial sense of security to its users through a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. This affords new users plenty of time to comprehensively evaluate its services.
Conversely, Windscribe proposes a shorter duration (just 3 days!) for its money-back guarantee. Although this briefer period still presents a chance to test the service, it could be a factor for those users who favor an extended trial to thoroughly ascertain the VPN’s suitability for their specific requirements.
* According to our market study, the average money-back guarantee period in the industry is approximately 25.68 days.
Simultaneous Connections: Windscribe Better
DotVPN permits users to connect up to 5 devices at the same time – which is a relative small number compare to market average. In contrast, Windscribe offers unlimited simultaneous connections. This feature is particularly advantageous for larger households or businesses where numerous devices require VPN protection. It allows for a more flexible approach to securing online activity, without the need to prioritize which devices are protected.
For users with extensive connectivity needs, this difference in simultaneous connection capabilities might be a deciding factor in choosing Zoog over DotVPN.
Kill Switch Feature: Windscribe Better
The presence of a kill switch in a VPN service is a critical factor for many users. Windscribe includes this feature, which automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing data leaks. In contrast, DotVPN does not offer a kill switch. This could be a significant drawback for users who require an assurance of continuous privacy protection. While DotVPN compensates with other features such as 700 servers spread across 10 countries and various support options like Email, and Submit online form, the lack of a kill switch might deter users who prioritize uninterrupted security in their VPN service.
Double VPN Feature: Windscribe Better
Windscribe stands out with its double VPN feature, somethingDotVPN lacks. If staying completely anonymous online is your top priority, then Windscribe is the better choice for you.
Double VPN is a special security feature not often seen in VPNs. Of the 96 VPNs we studied, only 26 have it. Usually, data goes through just one VPN server. But with double VPN, your data travels through two servers, adding more security and keeping you more anonymous. This means it’s much harder for hackers to get to your data, as it’s encrypted twice.
Bottomline
In conclusion, users who prioritize security features like a kill switch and double VPN, alongside unlimited simultaneous connections, should opt for Windscribe. On the other hand, those seeking a more affordable choice with a favorable jurisdiction for privacy, and a generous money-back guarantee, may find DotVPN more suitable.
Pick What You Need
Our VPN recommendations and ratings are just a general guide and may not match your personal needs. Know what you need and pick a VPN that fits. It’s crucial to assess your personal requirements, whether it’s enhanced security, better privacy, faster speeds, or access to specific content. Use ourWindscribe and DotVPN comparison as a starting point, but ultimately, select a VPN that aligns with your unique needs. This approach ensures you get the most out of your VPN service.
About Windscribe & DotVPN
DotVPN
Established in 2014, DotVPN is known for its strong security features, including 4096-bit key encryption. Although the specific founders are not publicly known, the company has made a significant impact in the VPN market. DotVPN operates over 700 servers in 10 countries and includes integrated ad and tracker blockers. The service is compatible with major platforms like Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. The company is headquartered in Hong Kong.
To learn more, read our DotVPN review.
Windscribe
Windscribe is a cross-platform, commercial VPN provider based in Canada. The company was founded by Yegor Sak and Alex Paguis in 2016. It offers unlimited, simultaneous connections, and its privacy policy promotes the service as a no-log VPN. Windscribe is known for its exceptional commitment to social responsibility, particularly around issues of censorship in authoritarian regimes. For example, it provided expanded bandwidth free accounts to everyone affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Windscribe has also offered free and unlimited service to all journalists in the region, and subsequently combatting Russian blocks that aimed to render these efforts fruitless.
To learn more, read our Windscribe review.