Windscribe: An extremely reliable VPN that grants access to more than 30 Netflix libraries.
Pros
- Windscribe Pro works with 32 Netflix regions
- Free version unblocks many streaming services
- Doesn’t collect personal internet traffic logs
- Bypasses content filters in China
- US & Canadian residential IPs available
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
Cons
- Slow international speeds & server connection times
- No independent no-logs audit
- No human live chat support
- No Smart DNS service
Overall Rating : 9.0/10
This composite score is computed using the nine individual category ratings provided.
- Privacy & Logging Policy: 9.3/10
- Speed: 9.3/10
- Security & Technical Features: 8.1/10
- Streaming: 9.7/10
- Torrenting: 8.5/10
- Ease of Use: 8.9/10
- Bypassing Censorship: 9.6/10
- Server Locations: 8.9/10
- Customer Support: 8.0/10
Similar to Proton VPN, Windscribe VPN offers both free and paid versions.
The standout feature of Windscribe Pro, the premium edition, is its ability to unlock 32 global Netflix libraries. No other VPN, including ExpressVPN, can achieve this level of access.
Furthermore, the free variant of Windscribe stands out as the top choice among free VPNs for streaming. It uniquely supports streaming in 6 distinct Netflix regions, along with other popular platforms like Disney+ and HBO Max.
Tailored for global streaming Informatics
What distinguishes Windscribe is its exceptional capability to effortlessly overcome streaming restrictions.
The premium version can connect to 32 Netflix regions, encompassing the US, UK, Brazil, Italy, and Germany.
Moreover, Windscribe Pro effectively operates with well-known video platforms such as HBO Max, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.
The free VPN version no longer grants access to the US Netflix library, but it remains capable of unblocking 6 different Netflix regions, as well as HBO Max, Hulu, and other platforms.
Windscribe also stands as an excellent VPN option for streaming BBC iPlayer from outside the UK.
Furthermore, Windscribe’s free US servers effectively bypass blackout restrictions for American sports content.
Nevertheless, your usage is confined by the 10GB monthly data allocation, translating to approximately four hours of HD streaming.
Undoubtedly, Windscribe stands out as an excellent VPN for streaming. However, it’s unfortunate that its streaming speeds fall noticeably behind those of ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
Furthermore, the absence of a Smart DNS solution adds complexity when trying to employ the VPN on devices like Apple TV, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Residential IP addresses accessible within the United States and Canada
Windscribe stands out as a select VPN service that offers residential IP addresses stationed in the United States (Chicago, Dallas) and Canada (Toronto).
These fixed IP addresses remain constant and prove valuable if you wish to consistently utilize the same IP address within the US or Canada.
Windscribe’s residential IPs are owned by internet service providers such as AT&T. This enables them to successfully navigate through streaming geo-restrictions. However, please note that these IPs do involve an additional cost of $8.00 per month.
Furthermore, it’s important to note that although these IPs are assigned to a small group of users (beyond just yourself), they lack the same level of privacy inherent in utilizing the dynamic IP addresses shared among a larger pool of VPN customers.
Limited by sluggish international speeds and prolonged connection durations
The issue we encountered with Windscribe pertained to its relatively sluggish long-distance speeds when measured against ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
These reduced speeds adversely impact the visual quality of streaming international video content. On several occasions during our recent tests, we encountered instances of blurry playback while streaming a movie.
Additionally, establishing a connection to specific servers could take several seconds at best and, at worst, extend to numerous minutes. There were even instances where connection attempts proved unsuccessful.
Who should consider using Windscribe?
Windscribe is an excellent choice for the following situations:
- Access to Multiple Netflix Regions: If you desire access to a wide range of Netflix regions, Windscribe is the top contender as it efficiently unblocks numerous Netflix libraries.
- American or Canadian Residential IP Address: If you’re seeking an American or Canadian residential IP address, Windscribe provides this feature, allowing you to connect from the USA or Canada.
However, Windscribe might not be the ideal choice if:
- Fast International Speeds Needed: Our speed tests revealed sluggish long-distance speeds and subpar connection times with Windscribe. If you require fast international connections, you might want to explore other options.
- Streaming App Unblocking on Apple TV and Game Consoles: Windscribe lacks a Smart DNS tool, making it less compatible with devices such as Apple TV and gaming consoles that don’t support native VPN apps.
For more information, you can visit Windscribe’s official website.
