When comparing Windscribe and NordVPN, both services offer strong privacy, encryption, and anonymity features, but they differ in some key areas.

1. Security & Privacy

• NordVPN: Known for its commitment to security, NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption and offers advanced features like Double VPN and Onion over VPN. Most notably, NordVPN has undergone multiple independent security audits, which have helped validate the service’s transparency and security claims.

• Windscribe: Windscribe also offers AES-256 encryption and secure protocols like IKEv2 and OpenVPN. However, Windscribe has not undergone an independent audit yet, which might be a point of concern for users looking for verified third-party validation of security practices.

2. Servers & Speed

• NordVPN: Boasts a large network of over 5,000 servers across 60+ countries. It also offers high-speed servers optimized for activities like streaming and torrenting, giving users access to fast, reliable connections.

• Windscribe: While its server network is smaller, with around 110 cities in 60 countries, Windscribe's performance remains competitive for most users. It also includes a "build-a-plan" feature that allows users to customize their server selections based on their needs.

3. Features & Usability

• NordVPN: Comes with additional security features like CyberSec (blocking malware and ads) and support for the Tor network. Its apps are user-friendly across various platforms, including mobile, desktop, and browser extensions.

• Windscribe: Known for its simple interface and customizable features like split tunneling and a robust free plan, Windscribe also offers ad-blocking and tracker-blocking capabilities. However, Windscribe lacks some of the advanced features NordVPN offers, such as Double VPN.

4. Pricing

• NordVPN: Offers competitive pricing with different subscription tiers and frequently provides discounts. The price reflects the service’s extensive feature set and its reputation for security.

• Windscribe: Windscribe is more flexible with its pricing. Its free plan, which comes with 10GB of data, is one of the most generous, and its customizable paid plans allow users to select only the server locations they need.

5. Audits

• NordVPN: Has completed multiple independent security audits, which enhances its credibility in terms of protecting user data.

• Windscribe: Does not have an independent security audit as of now, which may be seen as a downside for users who prioritize transparency and third-party verification.

Conclusion

While NordVPN offers a more feature-rich service with multiple security audits under its belt, Windscribe remains a strong contender for users looking for flexibility and a customizable VPN experience. For those concerned about third-party validation of security practices, NordVPN’s audits provide extra peace of mind, whereas Windscribe’s lack of an audit may leave some users hesitant.