Intro & Overall Ratings
Our Ratings
Hola VPN and Windscribe are two VPN services with differing strengths. Hola VPN, based in Israel, scores higher in overall ratings, pricing, jurisdiction, and server count. It offers a cheaper monthly rate, operates outside the 14-Eyes surveillance alliance, and boasts an extensive server network. However, Windscribe, based in Canada, offers superior features like unlimited simultaneous connections, a kill switch, and a double VPN feature. It also supports a no-logging policy, whereas Hola VPN does not. Despite the higher cost, Windscribe’s additional security features may justify the expense for some users. Therefore, from a user’s perspective, if cost and server count are primary concerns, Hola VPN is the better choice. But if advanced security features and unlimited connections are a priority, Windscribe is the superior option.
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 Hola VPN
| VPN Company | Windscirbe | Hola VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Country | Canada | Israel |
| Cheapest Price | $5.75/mo over 12-month subscription | $1.49/mo |
| Monthly Price | $12.00 | $7.49 |
| Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 14 days |
| No Logging Policy? | Yes | No |
| Encryption | AES-256, and ChaCha20 | AES-256 |
| Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2/IPSec | IKEv2/IPsec, L2TP, and PPTP |
| Servers | 120 | (not stated) |
| Servers Countries | 69 | 41 |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited devices | 10 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 | Yes |
| Third Party Audit | – | 0 |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat & Email | |
| Android App | Yes | No |
| iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Unblock Streaming | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, Hulu, and HBO | Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Netflix, and Hulu |
| Learn More | Visit Online | Visit Online |
Cruical Features & Key Differences
Plans & Pricing: Hola VPN Better
Hola VPN positions itself as an affordable option. The VPN charges $7.49/mo for month-to-month contract and a much cheaper $1.49/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 $1.49/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.
Hola VPN Plans
Windscribe Plans
Jurisdiction: Hola VPN 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 Israel, Hola VPN 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: Hola VPN Better
The size of a VPN’s server fleet plays a crucial role in determining user experience. A larger fleet generally provides faster speeds, greater reliability, wider geographical coverage, lower latency, and potentially enhanced privacy. On the other hand, a smaller server fleet might lead to slower speeds, higher latency, limited content access, and potential privacy concerns.
In term of server counts, Hola VPN stands out with its impressive network, hosting over 5,000 servers worldwide. This extensive coverage ensures that users almost anywhere can find a reliable and fast server connection.
In comparison, Windscribe maintains a more modest server presence, with only 120 servers across 69 countries. If you live in regions with fewer servers from Windscribe, this might translate to slower speeds and potentially less stable connections. The vast server network of Hola VPN not only provides broader geographic reach but also typically allows for better performance and lower latency.
Money Back Guarantee: Tie
Sadly, both Hola VPN and Windscribe offer a very short trial period. While this shorter timeframe does offer a window for service evaluation, it might be a point to consider for users who are looking for a longer duration to thoroughly test the VPN’s fit with their needs. In comparison, based on our market study, VPN companies usually offer 25 – 30 days in their money-back guarantee period.
Simultaneous Connections: Windscribe Better
Hola VPN permits users to connect up to 10 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 Hola VPN.
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, Hola VPN does not offer a kill switch. This could be a significant drawback for users who require an assurance of continuous privacy protection. While Hola VPN compensates with other features such as (not stated) servers spread across 41 countries and various support options like Email, 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, somethingHola VPN 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
If you’re looking for a VPN that offers top-notch security features like a kill switch and double VPN, as well as unlimited device connections, Windscribe is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want a more budget-friendly option with a larger server count and jurisdiction advantages, Hola VPN is the better choice.
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 Hola VPN 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 & Hola VPN
Hola VPN
Hola VPN, founded in 2012 by Ofer Vilenski and Derry Shribman, is known for its unique peer-to-peer VPN service. Based in Israel, Hola offers both a free and a premium VPN service, focusing on providing easy access to a wide range of global content. It’s known for its user-friendly browser extension and compatibility with multiple platforms.
To learn more, read our Hola VPN 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.