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Surfshark vs Windscribe: 170 Highlights & 53 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better

Learn about the security strengths including audit frequency and RAM-only servers between Surfshark and Windscribe. Choosing software can be messy. We made it easier by comparing Surfshark vs Windscribe on all key intended use, account sharing policy, deployment type & regulatory compliance statement.

83 Points
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
73 Points
Windscribe
Windscribe
Windscribe
Windscribe
vs

Highlights 175

No extras. Just what matters.
83 Points
vs
73 Points

Why is Surfshark better than Windscribe ?

Scroll down for more facts

Surfshark vs Windscribe: A Deep Dive Into Two Leading VPNs

When it comes to securing your online presence, both Surfshark and Windscribe stand out as strong contenders in the VPN market. They cater primarily to individuals and families, with Surfshark also extending its suite to business users. 

Both services embrace a cloud-based deployment model, focusing on privacy, security, streaming, and peer-to-peer (P2P) activities; yet the differences in their features, speed, and security give them unique positions in the crowd. 

Key capabilities such as unlimited bandwidth, support for major platforms, and advanced encryption exist in both. Still, Surfshark offers extra perks like gaming-optimized servers, periodic third-party audits, and advanced account management tools, which Windscribe presently lacks. To make an informed choice, understanding the nuances between their offerings is essential.

Why Surfshark Stands Out in the VPN Arena

Surfshark is engineered for users who crave a comprehensive, performance-driven VPN experience. Unlike many VPNs, it supports individuals, families, and businesses, making it versatile for varied scenarios. An important regulatory highlight is its compliance with GDPR, CCPA, and UK GDPR regulations, signaling a robust commitment to privacy standards. Moreover, its periodic third-party audit program reassures users about the continued security integrity of its infrastructure.

In terms of security, Surfshark operates RAM-only servers, enhancing user privacy by ensuring data does not persist on hard drives. It also integrates stealth mode and kill switch protection, crucial for blocking traffic if a connection drops unexpectedly. On the network side, Surfshark shines with gaming-optimized servers and hosts Tier III data centers, both factors contributing to enhanced speed and reliability.

Speed-wise, Surfshark delivers impressive peak speeds of around 550 Mbps alongside a lower latency impact of about 15ms, a boon for gamers and streamers. Plus, its performance analytics offer users detailed insights into connection quality, a feature missing in Windscribe.

Surfshark also impresses with advanced features such as mesh networking and API access, useful for power users wanting custom automation or broader network control. Its account management tools, including sub-accounts, multi-user profiles, and detailed login visibility, are tailor-made for families or teams needing strict access controls, which adds a professional touch unmatched by Windscribe.

When streaming or playing online games, Surfshark supports services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and cloud gaming with high streaming reliability. This makes it a solid fit for users seeking seamless digital entertainment without interruptions.

Windscribe's Steady Offerings for Casual Users and Budget Seekers

While Windscribe doesn't go quite as far as Surfshark in the feature race, it holds its ground as an efficient, user-friendly VPN oriented toward individuals and families. Its adherence to GDPR compliance fortifies basic privacy protection. It also shares many core security features, such as stealth mode and a kill switch, alongside solid encryption via RSA and ECDHE methods.

A notable Windscribe advantage is its availability of a free trial with no time limit specified, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users who want to explore without immediate commitment. The service supports unlimited bandwidth, covering needs for streaming in 4K and torrenting, just like Surfshark does.

On the performance front, Windscribe's peak speeds hover around 300 Mbps with a slightly higher latency impact of 20ms. This is still quite adequate for everyday browsing and casual media consumption, though it might lag for power users seeking ultra-low latency.

Windscribe also covers the major streaming platforms effectively: Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and others, ensuring broad content access. Its smart routing capability helps optimize connection performance, though without the advanced analytics features found in Surfshark.

Support-wise, Windscribe relies on community forums, an extensive knowledge base, and email/ticket systems, missing the live chat assistance and API documentation offered by Surfshark. This might translate to slower help during urgent issues, but it is sufficient for users who are comfortable with self-service resources.

Quick Take

Surfshark scores big on speed, advanced security with RAM-only servers, and extensive account management that suits families and businesses alike. Windscribe is a fantastic pick for those wanting a solid, no-fuss VPN experience with unlimited bandwidth and the unique grace of a free trial option.

Bottom Line: Which VPN Should You Choose?

If you desire top-tier security measures, business-grade management, and blazing-fast connections, Surfshark stands as the superior pick. Its wider compliance with privacy laws and enhanced customer support make it ideal for users who need a reliable and scalable VPN solution. Conversely, Windscribe is a compelling choice for personal users and families who appreciate simplicity, along with a free tier to start exploring VPN benefits without upfront fees.

Verdict

  • Winner: Surfshark - Delivers higher speed, superior security with RAM-only servers, and robust multi-user management, making it perfect for power users and businesses alike.
  • Runner-up: Windscribe - Provides a dependable, user-friendly VPN experience with free trials and acceptable performance, best suited for casual users mindful of budget.

Comparisons 34

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

Related comparisons 34

Because one duel is never enough.

Comparisons & Facts 175

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

No hype, just facts. This vpn comparison lays out what Surfshark and Windscribe offer — from AI performance to pricing tiers and UX wins.

General Information 12

Intended Use

What is this VPN mainly used for?

57 Surfshark 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, Gaming

56 Windscribe 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Intended Use

Surfshark supports Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, and Gaming use, while Windscribe supports Privacy, Security, Streaming, and P2P only. Surfshark’s inclusion of gaming makes it more versatile for gamers.

Describes the main use cases supported.

Account Sharing Policy

Is account sharing allowed?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Allowed

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Account Sharing Policy

Both Surfshark and Windscribe allow account sharing, giving users the flexibility to share their subscription across multiple devices or users. This policy supports ease of use in both services equally.

Defines rules around sharing accounts.

Regulatory Compliance Statement

What regulations does it comply with?

82 Surfshark 0 Votes GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR

86 Windscribe 0 Votes GDPR

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Regulatory Compliance Statement

Surfshark complies with GDPR, CCPA, and UK GDPR regulations, whereas Windscribe only complies with GDPR. Surfshark provides broader regulatory compliance, making it a better choice for users needing adherence to multiple privacy laws.

Stated compliance with data protection regulations.

Deployment Type

What is the deployment type?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes Cloud-Based

86 Windscribe 0 Votes Cloud-Based

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Deployment Type

Both Surfshark and Windscribe are cloud-based deployment models, ensuring scalable and flexible service delivery. Users can expect similar deployment benefits from either VPN.

How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.

VPN Service Type

What type of VPN service is offered?

27 Surfshark 0 Votes Consumer VPN

26 Windscribe 0 Votes Consumer VPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service type is consumer-focused, designed primarily for individual and household use.

Windscribe
Windscribe

This VPN is designed for consumer use, focusing on individual and personal security and privacy needs.

Indicates the primary service classification.

Supported Devices Count

How many devices are supported?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN supports unlimited devices per account, accommodating users with many gadgets.

Windscribe
Windscribe

Users can connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously under one subscription, enhancing multi-device convenience.

Maximum number of devices supported per account.

Platform Category

Which platform categories are supported?

71 Surfshark 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

70 Windscribe 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

Windscribe
Windscribe

This VPN is compatible across multiple platform categories: desktop, mobile devices, browser extensions, and routers.

Indicates supported platform categories.

Release Year

When was this VPN first released?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 2018

81 Windscribe 0 Votes 2016

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service was released in 2018, indicating experience and a matured product.

Year the VPN service was first released.

Service Model

What service model does the VPN use?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Subscription-Based

51 Windscribe 0 Votes Free Tier,Subscription-Based

Surfshark
Surfshark

The service operates on a subscription-based model, which means users pay periodically to maintain access and updates.

Business and access model used to provide the VPN service.

Target User

Who is this VPN designed for?

62 Surfshark 0 Votes Individual, Family

66 Windscribe 0 Votes Individual, Family, Business

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Target User

Surfshark caters to Individual and Family users, while Windscribe extends its service to Business users as well. This makes Windscribe more suitable for business environments, whereas Surfshark focuses on personal and family usage.

Identifies the primary audience.

Simultaneous Connections

How many simultaneous connections are allowed?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Unlimited

Number of devices that can connect at the same time.

Service Availability

Where is the service available?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Global

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Global

Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.

Security & Encryption 24

Kill Switch

Is a kill switch available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Kill Switch

Both Surfshark and Windscribe include a Kill Switch feature, which protects users by disconnecting internet access if the VPN connection drops. This feature is crucial for maintaining privacy on both services.

Blocks traffic if VPN connection drops.

Stealth Mode

Is stealth mode available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Stealth Mode

Stealth Mode is available on both Surfshark and Windscribe, allowing users to bypass VPN blocks and access content with added privacy. Both services are equally effective for stealthy VPN use.

Hides VPN usage from detection systems.

Encryption Strength

What encryption strength is used?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes AES-256

86 Windscribe 0 Votes AES-256

Surfshark
Surfshark

Encryption strength uses AES-256, a robust encryption cipher standard for secure VPN connections.

Windscribe
Windscribe

The VPN uses AES-256 encryption, the industry standard for strong, secure data protection.

Level and type of encryption used to secure data.

VPN Protocols Supported

Which VPN protocols are supported?

79 Surfshark 0 Votes OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2

78 Windscribe 0 Votes OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2

Surfshark
Surfshark

Supported VPN protocols include OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, covering a range of compatibility, security, and performance options.

Windscribe
Windscribe

The VPN supports multiple protocols including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, giving users options for balancing speed and security.

Lists all supported VPN protocols.

Default Protocol

What protocol is used by default?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes WireGuard

76 Windscribe 0 Votes OpenVPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

The default VPN protocol is WireGuard, favored for its speed and modern encryption.

Windscribe
Windscribe

The default VPN protocol is OpenVPN, known for its balance between security and speed.

Protocol used by default.

Audit Frequency

How often are audits done?

77 Surfshark 1 Votes Periodic

36 Windscribe 0 Votes One-Time

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Audit Frequency

Surfshark conducts periodic security audits, whereas Windscribe performs a one-time audit. Periodic audits from Surfshark enhance ongoing security assurance, making it preferable for vigilant users.

How often audits are performed.

I prefer Surfshark's periodic audit frequency as it shows continuous security efforts while Windscribe only conducts a one-time audit.

See more

Firewall Integration

Does it integrate with a firewall?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
Surfshark

Firewall integration enables the VPN to work seamlessly with existing firewall setups for enhanced protection.

Integrates firewall rules for traffic control.

Obfuscation Technology

Is traffic obfuscation supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
Surfshark

Obfuscation technology conceals VPN traffic to evade censorship and VPN blocks.

Masks VPN traffic to bypass censorship.

Multi-Hop VPN

Is multi-hop VPN supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
Surfshark

Multi-hop VPN chains user traffic through multiple servers for enhanced privacy and anonymity.

Routes traffic through multiple servers.

Encryption Standard

What encryption standard is used?

72 Surfshark 0 Votes AES, ChaCha20

66 Windscribe 0 Votes AES

Specifies the primary encryption algorithms used.

Key Exchange Method

How are encryption keys exchanged?

77 Surfshark 0 Votes ECDHE, RSA

76 Windscribe 0 Votes RSA, ECDHE

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Key Exchange Method

Surfshark and Windscribe use the same Key Exchange Methods: ECDHE and RSA. This ensures strong cryptographic security on both platforms with no difference in protocol quality.

Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.

Authentication Method

How are VPN connections authenticated?

72 Surfshark 0 Votes Certificates, Pre-Shared Key

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Certificates

Method used to authenticate connections.

Privacy & Logging Policy 18

RAM-Only Servers

Are RAM-only servers used?

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
RAM-Only Servers

Surfshark uses RAM-only servers, enhancing security by retaining no persistent data, while Windscribe does not employ RAM-only servers. Surfshark offers better security through ephemeral server memory.

Indicates use of volatile memory servers.

Surfshark's RAM-only servers give me peace of mind since my data never sticks around on their drives which is way better than Windscribe's approach.

See more

Connection Logs

Are connection logs stored?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Connection Logs

Neither Surfshark nor Windscribe store connection logs, which protects user anonymity by avoiding data retention on connections. Both are equally strong in this aspect of privacy.

Indicates logging of connection metadata.

Metadata Logs

Are metadata logs collected?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Metadata Logs

Both Surfshark and Windscribe do not log metadata, ensuring that user information about connection details is not collected or stored. This strengthens privacy for users of both VPNs.

Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.

User Data Deletion Policy

Can users delete their data?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
User Data Deletion Policy

Both services have User Data Deletion Policies in place, supporting prompt removal of user data when requested. This benefits users prioritizing data control and privacy.

Indicates if users can request data deletion.

Logging Policy Type

What is the logging policy type?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes No-Logs

96 Windscribe 0 Votes No-Logs

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Logging Policy Type

Both Surfshark and Windscribe maintain a No-Logs policy, ensuring user privacy by not storing any logs of activity. This makes both services reliable options for privacy-focused users.

Describes the overall logging stance.

Data Retention Period

How long is data retained?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes No Logs

96 Windscribe 0 Votes No Logs

Windscribe
Windscribe

The data retention policy is no logs, reinforcing strong privacy protection by not storing user activity data.

Length of time user data is retained.

Privacy Policy Clarity

How clear is the privacy policy?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Clear

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Clear

Windscribe
Windscribe

The privacy policy is clearly stated, enabling users to understand how their data is handled.

Describes how understandable the policy is.

Privacy Certification

Does it have privacy certifications?

47 Surfshark 0 Votes ISO 27001, TRUSTe

0 Windscribe 0 Votes None

Surfshark
Surfshark

Privacy certifications include ISO 27001 and TRUSTe, indicating adherence to internationally recognized privacy and security standards.

Privacy or security certifications held by the provider.

Activity Logs

Are activity logs stored?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates whether user activity is logged.

IP Address Logging

Are IP addresses logged?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.

Timestamp Logging

Are timestamps logged?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates logging of session timestamps.

Bandwidth Usage Logging

Is bandwidth usage logged?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.

Network & Server Infrastructure 20

Server Ownership

Who owns the servers?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Hybrid

36 Windscribe 0 Votes Rented

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Server Ownership

Surfshark has hybrid server ownership, combining owned and rented servers for potentially better control and security. Windscribe relies solely on rented servers, which may impact infrastructure control.

Describes who controls the servers.

Data Center Tier

What data center tier is used?

47 Surfshark 0 Votes Tier III

0 Windscribe 0 Votes Unspecified

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Data Center Tier

Surfshark uses Tier III data centers, which offer high levels of redundancy and uptime, whereas Windscribe’s data center tier is unspecified. Surfshark thus provides more dependable infrastructure guarantees.

Indicates data center reliability level.

Gaming Optimized Servers

Are gaming servers available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Gaming Optimized Servers

Surfshark offers gaming optimized servers, which can enhance performance and reduce latency during online gaming. Windscribe does not offer this feature, making Surfshark more suitable for gamers.

Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.

Throttling Policy

Is bandwidth throttled?

17 Surfshark 0 Votes No Throttling

16 Windscribe 0 Votes No Throttling

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Throttling Policy

Both Surfshark and Windscribe follow a No Throttling policy, ensuring users can enjoy full bandwidth without artificial speed limits. Each service promises unrestricted data speeds.

Describes bandwidth throttling rules.

Total Server Count

How many servers are available?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 3000+

26 Windscribe 0 Votes 100–500

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total server count exceeds 3000, indicating a large network with many options for users worldwide.

Windscribe
Windscribe

The total number of servers ranges between 100 and 500, offering a good selection of connection points worldwide.

Approximate total number of servers available.

Total Country Coverage

How many countries are covered?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 90+

76 Windscribe 0 Votes 60–90

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total country coverage extends beyond 90 countries, providing worldwide server options and global access.

Windscribe
Windscribe

The VPN covers between 60 and 90 countries, offering extensive global reach for diverse geographic needs.

Number of countries with server presence.

Total City Coverage

How many cities are covered?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 200+

76 Windscribe 0 Votes 100–200

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total city coverage exceeds 200 cities, ensuring extensive geographic reach and more options for optimal performance.

Number of cities with VPN servers.

Server Location Type

Are server locations physical or virtual?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Mixed

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Mixed

Windscribe
Windscribe

Server location types include physical and virtual servers, balancing cost and geographic availability.

Indicates how server locations are implemented.

Load Balancing

Is load balancing supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Distributes traffic evenly across servers.

Smart Location Selection

Is smart location selection available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Automatically selects optimal servers.

Specialized Servers

Are specialized servers offered?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates presence of purpose-built servers.

P2P Servers

Are P2P servers available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Servers optimized for P2P traffic.

Performance & Speed 14

Peak Speed Performance

What is the peak speed performance?

550 Mbps 1 Votes
Surfshark
300 Mbps 0 Votes
Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Peak Speed Performance

Surfshark achieves peak speed performance up to 550 Mbps, almost double Windscribe’s 300 Mbps. This higher throughput makes Surfshark more suitable for high-bandwidth activities.

Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.

I really appreciate Surfshark's peak speed reaching 550 Mbps It feels much smoother for my streaming and gaming compared to Windscribe's 300 Mbps.

See more

Latency Impact

How much latency does the VPN add?

15 ms 1 Votes
Surfshark
20 ms 0 Votes
Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Latency Impact

Surfshark impacts latency by approximately 15 ms, while Windscribe causes a slightly higher latency impact of 20 ms. Surfshark is better for latency-sensitive tasks like gaming or VoIP.

Additional latency introduced by the VPN.

Surfshark's latency impact of about 15 ms is noticeably better which benefits my online gaming sessions way more than Windscribe's 20 ms.

See more

Smart Routing

Is smart routing used?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Smart Routing

Both services support Smart Routing, which intelligently directs traffic for faster and more efficient connections. This feature is equally implemented by Surfshark and Windscribe.

Routes traffic through optimal paths.

Performance Analytics

Are performance analytics available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Performance Analytics

Surfshark offers performance analytics to monitor and optimize network efficiency, whereas Windscribe does not provide this feature. Users valuing performance insights may prefer Surfshark.

Provides performance monitoring insights.

Regional Speed Optimization

Is regional speed optimization supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Regional Speed Optimization

Regional Speed Optimization is enabled on both Surfshark and Windscribe, improving speeds by selecting servers close to users' locations. Both services enhance regional performance similarly.

Optimizes speeds by geographic region.

Average Download Speed

What is the average download speed?

480 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark
100 Mbps 0 Votes
Windscribe

Surfshark
Surfshark

Average download speed of 480 Mbps provides fast data transfer, supporting HD streaming and bulk downloads.

Windscribe
Windscribe

Average download speed is 100 Mbps, providing fast internet access for streaming, browsing, and downloads.

Typical downstream speed when connected to the VPN.

Average Upload Speed

What is the average upload speed?

420 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark
80 Mbps 0 Votes
Windscribe

Surfshark
Surfshark

The average upload speed is 420 Mbps, suitable for high-quality video calls and fast file uploads.

Windscribe
Windscribe

Average upload speed is 80 Mbps, sufficient for most online activities including video conferencing and file uploads.

Typical upstream speed when using the VPN.

Speed Consistency

How consistent are the speeds?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

96 Windscribe 0 Votes High

Surfshark
Surfshark

Speed consistency is rated high, indicating stable and reliable connection speeds over time.

Stability of speeds over time.

Protocol Speed Optimization

Are protocols optimized for speed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Windscribe
Windscribe

The VPN incorporates protocol speed optimization techniques to enhance overall connection speed and reduce latency.

Optimizes protocol choice for speed.

Speed Throttling

Is speed throttling applied?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.

Auto Server Selection Speed

Does it auto-select the fastest server?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Automatically selects fastest servers.

Speed Test Tool

Is there a built-in speed test?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Built-in tool for measuring VPN speed.

Platform & Device Support 13

OS Version Compatibility

Which OS versions are supported?

78 Surfshark 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

77 Windscribe 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
OS Version Compatibility

Surfshark supports all major OS versions including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Routers; Windscribe supports the same OS range. Both services cover extensive device compatibility.

Operating systems and platforms supported.

Browser Extension

Are browser extensions available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Browser Extension

Browser extensions are supported by both VPNs, allowing quick VPN activation within web browsers. This convenience is equally available on Surfshark and Windscribe.

Indicates availability of browser extensions.

Browser Types Supported

Which browsers are supported?

85 Surfshark 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera

84 Windscribe 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera

Surfshark
Surfshark

Browser types supported include Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera, enabling VPN use directly through popular browsers.

Lists supported browser types.

Smart TV

Are smart TVs supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
Smart TV

Smart TV compatibility is available with both Surfshark and Windscribe, enabling VPN use on popular smart TV brands for streaming and privacy. Users have equal options on either service.

Indicates support for smart TV platforms.

Gaming Console

Are gaming consoles supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.

Manual Configuration

Is manual configuration supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows manual VPN setup.

CLI Support

Is CLI support available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
vs
Windscribe
CLI Support

Both Surfshark and Windscribe support Command Line Interface (CLI), enabling advanced users to manage VPN connections via terminal commands. This makes them equally flexible for technical configuration.

Indicates command-line interface availability.

App Interface Consistency

Is the app interface consistent?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Consistent

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Consistent

Consistency of UI across platforms.

Cross-Platform Sync

Is cross-platform sync available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Syncs settings across devices.

Device Management Dashboard

Is there a device management dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Centralized device management interface.

ARM Architecture

Are ARM devices supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates support for ARM-based devices.

Virtual Machine

Is virtual machine usage supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates usability in virtual machines.

Features & Functionality 24

Custom DNS

Can custom DNS be configured?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows use of custom DNS resolvers.

Mesh Networking

Is mesh networking supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Connects devices in a private mesh network.

Automation Scripts

Are automation scripts supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows use of automation scripts.

Per-App Rules

Can rules be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Applies VPN rules per application.

LAN Access

Is LAN access allowed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
Surfshark

LAN access when connected allows users to interact with devices on the local network behind the VPN.

Allows access to local network devices.

Custom Routing Rules

Can routing rules be customized?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
Surfshark

Custom routing rules allow users to define specific paths for traffic, enhancing control and performance optimization.

Allows advanced routing customization.

Automation Support

Is automation supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
Surfshark

Automation support allows users to integrate VPN usage with other automated workflows and scripts.

Supports automation via integrations or scripts.

API Access

Is API access available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Surfshark
Surfshark

API access is available, facilitating integration with other software or automated management of the VPN service.

Provides programmatic API access.

Split Tunneling

Is split tunneling supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows selective routing of traffic outside the VPN.

App-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows split tunneling by application.

URL-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set by URL?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows split tunneling by website or domain.

Auto-Connect Rules

Are auto-connect rules supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Automatically connects under defined conditions.

Streaming, Gaming & P2P Support 9

Streaming Platform Support

Which streaming platforms are supported?

84 Surfshark 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

83 Windscribe 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

Surfshark
Surfshark

Streaming platforms supported include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, ensuring broad access to popular services securely through the VPN.

Windscribe
Windscribe

Supports popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video for unrestricted content access.

Streaming platforms that the VPN can reliably unblock and support.

Streaming Reliability

How reliable is streaming access?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

96 Windscribe 0 Votes High

Consistency of streaming access over time.

Cloud Gaming

Does it support cloud gaming?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.

Torrenting Policy

Is torrenting allowed?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Allowed

Defines torrenting rules.

P2P File Sharing

Is P2P file sharing allowed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Windscribe
Windscribe

P2P file sharing is allowed, supporting activities like torrenting within the VPN network.

Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.

HD Streaming

Is HD streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates support for HD streaming quality.

4K Streaming

Is 4K streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.

Gaming Latency Optimization

Is gaming latency optimized?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.

Port Selection for P2P

Can ports be selected for P2P?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows port selection for P2P traffic.

Account, Access & Management 10

Sub-Account

Are sub-accounts supported?

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.

Having sub-accounts on Surfshark is a neat feature that helps me share safely with my family while Windscribe lacks this flexibility.

See more

Multi-User Profiles

Can multiple user profiles be created?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows multiple user profiles under one account.

Access Control Levels

Are access control levels available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Supports different permission levels.

Session Management

Can active sessions be managed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows viewing and managing active sessions.

Login History Visibility

Is login history visible?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Shows login and access history.

Device Revocation

Can devices be revoked remotely?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Windscribe
Windscribe

Device revocation is supported, enabling administrators or users to revoke access for specific devices.

Allows removal of connected devices remotely.

Password Policy

How strong is the password policy?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong

66 Windscribe 0 Votes Strong

Windscribe
Windscribe

The password policy is strong, enforcing good security practices to protect user accounts.

Rules for password complexity and security.

User Account Dashboard

Is there a user account dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Provides a central interface for managing the account.

Team or Family Plans

Are team or family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates availability of shared plans.

Two-Factor Authentication

Is two-factor authentication available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Adds an extra layer of account security.

Customer Support & Documentation 8

Knowledge Base

Is there a knowledge base?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Windscribe
Windscribe

A knowledge base is available, providing users with self-help resources and FAQs.

Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.

Support Channels

What support channels are available?

64 Surfshark 0 Votes Live Chat, Email, Ticket

51 Windscribe 0 Votes Email, Ticket

Lists available customer support channels.

API Documentation

Is API documentation available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Provides documentation for API usage.

Community Forum

Is there a community forum?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates presence of a user community forum.

Setup Guides

Are setup guides available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Windscribe
Windscribe

Setup guides are provided, assisting users in installing and configuring the VPN across various platforms.

Provides step-by-step setup instructions.

Video Tutorials

Are video tutorials available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.

Response Time SLA

What is the response time SLA?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

66 Windscribe 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

Expected support response time.

Support Language Coverage

What support languages are available?

52 Surfshark 0 Votes English, Multi-language

16 Windscribe 0 Votes English

Languages supported by customer service.

Billing, Plans & Trials 12

Plan Flexibility

How flexible are the plans?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

96 Windscribe 0 Votes High

Windscribe
Windscribe

Plan flexibility is rated high, letting users easily adjust their subscription terms or features.

Ease of changing plans.

Free Trial Availability

Is a free trial available?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 1 Votes Windscribe

Indicates whether a free trial is offered.

I'm a fan of Windscribe's free trial availability since it lets me test the service before committing but Surfshark doesn't offer that option.

See more

Trial Duration

How long is the free trial?

7 days 0 Votes
Surfshark
0 days 0 Votes
Windscribe

Length of the free trial period.

Payment Methods Supported

What payment methods are supported?

60 Surfshark 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency, Gift Card

66 Windscribe 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency

Supported payment methods.

Business Plan Availability

Are business plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates availability of business plans.

Subscription Length Options

What subscription lengths are available?

64 Surfshark 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

59 Windscribe 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly

Windscribe
Windscribe

Subscription length options include monthly and yearly plans, offering flexibility to users.

Available subscription durations.

Refund Period

What is the refund period?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes 30 Days

66 Windscribe 0 Votes 30 Days

Windscribe
Windscribe

The refund period is 30 days, offering users a full month to claim a refund if unsatisfied.

Time window for requesting refunds.

Money-Back Guarantee

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.

Anonymous Payment

Are anonymous payments supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Allows anonymous payment methods.

Auto-Renewal

Is auto-renewal enabled?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates whether subscriptions auto-renew.

Plan Change Policy

What is the plan change policy?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

Policy governing whether users can upgrade or downgrade their subscription plans.

Family Plan Availability

Are family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes Windscribe

Indicates availability of family plans.

Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11

Independent Security Audits

Are independent audits conducted?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Undergoes third-party security audits.

Audit Transparency

Are audit reports public?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Publishes full audit reports.

Jurisdiction Clarity

Is jurisdiction clearly stated?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Clearly states legal jurisdiction.

No-Log Claim Credibility

Is the no-logs claim credible?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Credibility of no-logs claims.

Public Reputation

What is the public reputation?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Excellent

56 Windscribe 0 Votes Good

Overall public perception.

Service Uptime

What is the service uptime?

99.9 % 0 Votes
Surfshark
99.9 % 0 Votes
Windscribe

Windscribe
Windscribe

An uptime of 99.9% indicates high reliability and minimal service interruptions.

Average service availability over time.

Third-Party Review Presence

Does the VPN have third-party reviews?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong Presence

96 Windscribe 0 Votes Strong Presence

Windscribe
Windscribe

This VPN has a strong presence in third-party reviews, indicating recognition and generally positive feedback from independent evaluators.

Indicates whether the VPN service is actively reviewed on independent third-party platforms.

Downtime Transparency

Are downtimes disclosed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.

Company Transparency

Is company ownership transparent?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Discloses ownership and leadership.

Transparency Reports

Are transparency reports published?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes Windscribe

Publishes government request reports.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Performance

How would you rate the overall performance of this VPN?

Very fast — Under 2 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Fast — 2 to 4 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Average speed — 4 to 6 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Slow — 6 to 10 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Very slow — Over 10 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

Ease of Setup

How easy is it to set up this VPN?

Very easy — Takes under 5 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Easy — Takes 5 to 10 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Average — Takes 10 to 15 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Hard — Takes 15 to 30 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Very hard — Takes over 30 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

User Interface

How would you describe the usability of this VPN's interface?

Very intuitive — Easy to navigate and use
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Easy to use — Clear and simple interface
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Average — Some features may be difficult to navigate
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Hard to use — Complex layout, hard to understand
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Very hard to use — Frustrating interface
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

Connection Stability

How stable is the connection when using this VPN?

Very stable — Rare disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Stable — Occasional disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Average stability — Frequent minor disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Unstable — Regular disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Very unstable — Almost always disconnects
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

Security Features

How would you rate the security features of this VPN?

Top-notch security — Includes features like 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and kill switch
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Great security — Includes strong encryption and basic protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Average security — Standard encryption, basic protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Weak security — Limited encryption and few protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Poor security — No encryption or protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

Device Compatibility

How well does this VPN work across different devices?

Excellent compatibility — Works on all devices without issues
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Good compatibility — Works on most devices with few issues
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Average compatibility — Works on some devices, limited support
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Poor compatibility — Works only on specific devices
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Very limited compatibility — Works on very few devices
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

Speed During Use

How fast is your internet connection when using this VPN?

Very fast — No noticeable decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Fast — Slight decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Average speed — Moderate decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Slow — Significant decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Very slow — Extremely slow, hard to use
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

Customer Support

How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?

Exceptional — Quick responses, helpful solutions
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Good — Support is helpful and timely
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Average — Support is okay but may take some time
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Poor — Long wait times and incomplete solutions
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Very poor — No helpful support, slow responses
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

Design Appeal

How would you rate the design appeal of this VPN's interface?

Very appealing — Modern, clean, and visually pleasing
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Appealing — Simple and easy on the eyes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Average — Nothing special, functional but basic
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Unappealing — Outdated and unattractive
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Very unappealing — Difficult to look at
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

Pricing

How would you rate the price of this VPN compared to its features?

Great value for money — Worth every penny
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Pretty good price — Good balance of features and cost
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Fair deal — Reasonable for the features provided
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Kinda pricey — Higher cost than expected
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe
Crazy expensive — Far too expensive for what it offers
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
Windscribe

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
0 / 5 0 Reviews
Windscribe
Windscribe
Windscribe
Windscribe
0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions 0

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards 3

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Collections 0

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