Side by side
Bitmask vs Windscribe
Both stand on free vpn services. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidLinuxMac+2
Choose Bitmask if you want a free, open-source VPN app with vetted provider connections, circumvention tools, or self-hosting. Windows users should weigh the absence of a kill switch and the maker's caution about DNS and IP leak testing; Linux users should note the supported distribution limits.
Visit Bitmask
Free plan Open source AndroidExtensioniPhone+4
Windscribe offers a free tier, location-based Build-A-Plan, and Pro subscriptions with unlimited data. Compare the free allowance and location limits with the Pro plan’s listed country and city coverage.
Visit WindscribeThe facts
| Bitmask | Windscribe | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Android, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Android, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Build-A-Plan: $3 a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 7 |
| Maker | Bitmask | Windscribe |
| Website | bitmask.net | windscribe.com |
| On free vpn services | #7 of 43 | #3 of 43 |
Bitmask: what it does well
- Free to use, with connections to vetted providers.
- Apps and server-side components are open source.
- Includes tools to evade internet controls.
- Can connect to private VPNs using a discreet URL or invite code.
- Available for Android, Linux, macOS, Windows, and self-hosted use.
What to know first
- Debian and Arch Linux packaging is not currently available.
- Windows has no kill switch.
- The maker says Windows is not very well battle tested for DNS or IP leaks.
Windscribe: what it does well
- Available on six listed platforms.
- Includes a kill switch and WireGuard support.
- Verified no-logs audit.
- Streaming and torrent support are listed.
What to know first
- Free plan covers 10 countries at 10 GB monthly.
- Free allowance is 2 GB monthly without confirmed email.
- Build-A-Plan requires a 3.00 USD minimum purchase.
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