📊 Our Test Results:
- ⚡ Speed (WireGuard): Windscribe 950Mbps+ vs Mullvad 86.5% retained — Windscribe wins
- 🔒 Privacy & Anonymity: Mullvad zero personal data vs Windscribe email optional — Mullvad wins
- 📺 Streaming Access: Windscribe unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ vs Mullvad blocked — Windscribe wins
- 🌍 Server Network: Windscribe 69+ countries vs Mullvad 49 countries — Windscribe wins
- 💰 Free Plan: Windscribe 10GB free vs Mullvad no free plan — Windscribe wins
Are you stuck choosing between two privacy-focused VPNs?
Mullvad and Windscribe both promise to protect your online privacy.
But they take very different approaches to doing it.
One focuses on pure anonymity. The other packs in features and flexibility.
We tested both Mullvad vs Windscribe for weeks to find the real winner.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, we tested Windscribe and Mullvad side by side.
We checked speeds, privacy features, streaming access, and pricing.
We also looked at how easy each VPN is to use on different devices.
Here’s what we found after weeks of hands-on testing.
What is Windscribe?
Windscribe is a Canadian VPN service built for everyday privacy and freedom.
It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your real IP address.
What makes it special is the generous free plan with 10GB of data every month.
It also includes R.O.B.E.R.T., a built-in tool that blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
You can connect unlimited devices at once, even on the free plan.
Windscribe
A flexible VPN with a free plan, unlimited devices, and a powerful ad blocker. Windscribe unblocks Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ with servers in 69+ countries.
Windscribe Pricing
Windscribe gives you three ways to pay. Here’s the breakdown.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Build A Plan | Custom | Users who need only a few locations |
| Yearly Plan | $5.75/month | Best value for full access |
| Monthly Plan | $9.00/month | Short-term or trial users |
Free plan: Yes. 10GB per month with email signup. No credit card needed.
Money-back guarantee: 3-day refund window if you use less than 10GB of data.
📌 Note: The Build A Plan option lets you pick only the server locations you need. Each location costs $1/month with a $3 minimum. Add unlimited data for another $1.
⚠️ Warning: The money-back window is only 3 days. That’s much shorter than most VPNs. Test the free plan first before paying.
Key Benefits of Windscribe
Here’s why Windscribe stands out from the competition:
- Generous Free Plan: Get 10GB of data every month just by signing up with your email. No credit card required.
- Unlimited Devices: Connect every device you own at the same time. Most VPNs limit you to 5 or 10 devices.
- R.O.B.E.R.T. Ad Blocker: Block ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level. You can customize what gets blocked.
- Streaming Power: Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ on paid plans. Free plan works with some services too.
- Flexible Pricing: Build your own plan starting at $3/month. Pay only for the locations you actually need.
- Split Tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN and which ones don’t. Great for gaming or local services.
Windscribe Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 10GB free plan with no credit card required
- Unlimited device connections on all plans
- R.O.B.E.R.T. blocks ads, trackers, and malware
- Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+
- Build A Plan option starts at just $3/month
❌ Cons
- Based in Canada (Five Eyes country)
- Only 3-day money-back guarantee
- No live chat support available
- Free plan limited to 10 server locations
What is Mullvad?
Mullvad is a Swedish VPN built for one thing: maximum privacy.
It doesn’t ask for your email, name, or any personal information to sign up.
You get a random 16-digit account number instead of a username.
You can even pay with cash mailed in an envelope for total anonymity.
Every server runs on RAM only. That means all data is wiped on every reboot.
Mullvad
The most privacy-focused VPN on the market. No email required, anonymous payments accepted, and independently audited. Perfect for users who value anonymity above all else.
Mullvad Pricing
Mullvad keeps pricing dead simple. Here’s what it costs.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | €5 per month | Short-term privacy needs |
| 1 Year | €5 per month | Regular VPN users |
| 1 Decade | €5 per month | Long-term commitment |
Free trial: No free plan available. No free trial offered.
Money-back guarantee: 14-day refund window. Cash payments are not eligible for refunds.
📌 Note: The price has never changed since Mullvad launched in 2009. You pay the same whether you subscribe monthly or for a decade. Crypto payments get a 10% discount.
⚠️ Warning: There are no long-term discounts. While $5.50 USD per month sounds fair, competitors like NordVPN and Surfshark cost less on 2-year plans.
Key Benefits of Mullvad
Here’s why privacy enthusiasts love Mullvad:
- Zero Personal Data: No email, no name, no phone number. You get a random 16-digit account number and that’s it.
- Anonymous Payments: Pay with cash (mailed in), Bitcoin, Monero, or gift cards. No payment trail back to you.
- RAM-Only Servers: All 700+ servers run on RAM. Data is wiped on every reboot so nothing is stored.
- Independent Audits: Multiple security audits from Cure53 and Assured AB confirm the no-logs policy is real.
- Open-Source Apps: Every Mullvad app is fully open-source. Anyone can verify the code for security flaws.
- Quantum-Resistant Tunnels: Mullvad VPN tunnels are built to resist future quantum computing threats.
Mullvad Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- No personal information needed to sign up
- Independently audited no-logs policy
- Accepts cash and crypto for full anonymity
- Open-source apps anyone can inspect
- Price has never changed since 2009
❌ Cons
- No free plan or free trial
- Only 5 devices at once (most VPNs allow more)
- Fails to unblock most streaming services
- Smaller server network (700+ in 49 countries)
Feature Comparison
Ready to see how Windscribe and Mullvad compare feature by feature?
We tested 10 key areas to find the real differences between these VPNs.
| Feature | Windscribe | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $5.75/month (annual) | €5/month (~$5.50) |
| Free Plan | ✅ 10GB/month | ❌ |
| Simultaneous Devices | ✅ Unlimited | ❌ 5 max |
| Server Countries | 69+ | 49 |
| Streaming Support | ✅ Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ | ❌ Blocked |
| Ad & Malware Blocker | ✅ R.O.B.E.R.T. | ✅ Built-in |
| Anonymous Signup | ❌ Email optional | ✅ Zero info needed |
| Kill Switch | ✅ (Firewall) | ✅ (Always on) |
| Open-Source Apps | ❌ | ✅ Fully open-source |
| Best For | Everyday VPN users | Privacy purists |
1. Privacy & Anonymity
Windscribe: Windscribe has a strict no-logs policy. It doesn’t track your browsing or store connection logs. You can sign up without an email using a random hash. However, Windscribe is based in Canada, a Five Eyes country.
Mullvad: Mullvad takes privacy to the extreme. No email. No name. Just a 16-digit account number. You can pay with cash or crypto for total anonymity. Its apps are fully open-source and audited by independent firms.
⚠️ Warning: Windscribe keeps minimal metadata like bandwidth used and a last-activity timestamp. Mullvad keeps absolutely nothing. If anonymity is your top priority, Mullvad wins this round.
2. Server Network
Windscribe: Windscribe runs servers in over 69 countries across 130+ locations. Free users get access to 10 countries. Paid users get the full network. This gives you more options for bypassing geo-blocks.
Mullvad: Mullvad has around 700 servers in 49 countries. That’s smaller than Windscribe. But every Mullvad server runs on RAM only. Quality matters more than quantity here.
3. Speed & Performance
Windscribe: With WireGuard, Windscribe hits speeds over 950Mbps. That nearly maxes out a gigabit connection. OpenVPN speeds range from 270 to 330Mbps. Free servers are about 15% slower than paid ones.
Mullvad: Mullvad retains about 86.5% of your original speed. That’s a loss of only 13.5%. Speeds stay consistent across devices and protocols. Long-distance connections can drop 40-50%.
4. Streaming & Geo-Unblocking
Windscribe: Windscribe unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ on the paid plan. It even works with Amazon Prime Video. The free version handles some streaming, but data caps limit how much you can watch.
Mullvad: Mullvad fails at streaming. It was blocked by Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer during testing. Mullvad is built for privacy, not entertainment. If you want to watch geo-locked content, look elsewhere.
💡 Test Result: Windscribe unblocked every Netflix library we tested. Mullvad was blocked on every single streaming platform. This is the biggest gap between these two VPNs.
5. Ad & Malware Blocking
Windscribe: R.O.B.E.R.T. is Windscribe’s DNS and IP-level blocker. You can customize it to block ads, trackers, malware, social media trackers, and even gambling sites. It works on all apps and browsers.
Mullvad: Mullvad includes built-in blockers for ads, trackers, and malware domains. It works well but offers less customization than Windscribe’s R.O.B.E.R.T. You can’t pick and choose what to block.
6. Device Connections
Windscribe: Windscribe allows unlimited devices. Connect your phone, laptop, tablet, smart TV, and router. All at the same time. Even free users get unlimited connections.
Mullvad: Mullvad caps you at 5 devices. That’s enough for most people. But families or power users may run into the limit fast. There’s no way to increase it.
7. Kill Switch & Security Features
Windscribe: Windscribe calls its kill switch “Firewall.” It blocks all internet traffic if the VPN drops. The app also supports split tunneling, Double Hop, and time zone spoofing.
Mullvad: Mullvad’s kill switch is always on. You can’t disable it. It also has a Lockdown mode that blocks all internet unless connected to Mullvad. Multi-Hop and DAITA are bonus privacy features.
8. Encryption & Protocols
Windscribe: Windscribe uses AES-256 encryption. It supports WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN protocols. WireGuard gives you the fastest speeds. OpenVPN is the most compatible option.
Mullvad: Mullvad fully moved to WireGuard as of January 2026. It dropped OpenVPN for better speed and security. Mullvad’s tunnels are also quantum-resistant. That’s future-proof protection.
9. Split Tunneling
Windscribe: Windscribe supports split tunneling on all major platforms. You pick which apps go through the VPN. This keeps your local services running fast while protecting sensitive apps.
Mullvad: Mullvad offers split tunneling on desktop and Android. It’s basic but functional. You can exclude certain apps from the VPN tunnel. iOS does not support split tunneling with Mullvad.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | Windscribe | Mullvad |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ✅ 10GB/month | ❌ No free plan |
| Build A Plan | From $3/month | ❌ Not available |
| Monthly | $9.00/month | €5/month (~$5.50) |
| Annual | $5.75/month ($69/year) | €5/month (€60/year) |
Windscribe: Windscribe wins on flexibility. The free plan is enough for light users. Build A Plan lets you save money. The annual plan is competitive at $5.75/month.
Mullvad: Mullvad is simpler but less flexible. €5/month no matter what. No discounts for longer plans. The price hasn’t changed since 2009, which is rare. Crypto users get 10% off.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A free VPN plan | Windscribe | 10GB free, no card needed |
| Maximum anonymity | Mullvad | No personal info, cash payments |
| Streaming Netflix & Hulu | Windscribe | Unblocks all major platforms |
| Open-source verified apps | Mullvad | Fully audited code |
| Unlimited devices | Windscribe | No device limit on any plan |
| Simplest pricing | Mullvad | One flat rate, no tricks |
💰 Your Budget
If you want to try a VPN for free, Windscribe is the only choice here. Mullvad has no free plan. For paid plans, both cost about $5.50-$5.75 per month.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
Windscribe has browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Mullvad works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. Both support routers for whole-home coverage.
📺 Your Streaming Needs
If you watch Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+, pick Windscribe. Mullvad was blocked by every streaming platform we tested. This is the biggest difference between them.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Windscribe is more beginner-friendly with a polished interface. Mullvad’s app is simple but more technical. Beginners will find Windscribe easier to set up and use.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Windscribe’s 10GB free plan is the best way to try it. Mullvad offers a 14-day money-back guarantee instead. We recommend testing Windscribe’s free plan first.
🛟 Support Options
Windscribe has an AI chatbot plus email support. Mullvad only offers email support. Neither has live chat. Windscribe’s help center has more guides and resources.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPNs? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Windscribe to Mullvad?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Complete anonymity with no personal data collected
- Open-source apps that anyone can audit
- Cash and crypto payment options for zero tracking
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Free plan and flexible Build A Plan pricing
- Unlimited device connections (Mullvad caps at 5)
- Streaming access to Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your Windscribe subscription from your account settings
- Go to mullvad.net and generate a new account number
- Download the Mullvad app on your devices and log in with your number
🔄 Switching from Mullvad to Windscribe?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Unlimited device connections for your whole family
- Access to Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+
- R.O.B.E.R.T. ad blocker with full customization
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Cash payment option for full anonymity
- Open-source apps verified by third parties
- Zero personal data collection policy
📋 How to switch:
- Let your Mullvad subscription expire (no auto-renewal)
- Sign up at windscribe.com (email optional for free plan)
- Download Windscribe apps and connect on unlimited devices
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing & Flexibility | Windscribe |
| 🔒 Privacy & Anonymity | Mullvad |
| ⚡ Speed & Performance | Windscribe |
| 📺 Streaming | Windscribe |
| 🌍 Server Network | Windscribe |
| 📱 Device Connections | Windscribe |
| 🛡️ Security Features | Mullvad |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Windscribe |
🏆 WINNER: Windscribe
Windscribe wins 5 out of 7 categories.
Best for: Streaming fans, multi-device households, budget-conscious users, and anyone who wants a free VPN plan.
Windscribe and Mullvad are built for very different users.
Windscribe is the better all-around VPN. It streams content, connects unlimited devices, and offers a free plan.
Mullvad is the better privacy tool. It collects zero personal data and accepts anonymous payments.
If privacy is your only concern, Mullvad is excellent.
But for most people who want speed, streaming, and flexibility, Windscribe is the smarter choice.
Now go protect your online privacy!
More of Windscribe Compared
Here’s how Windscribe stacks up against other competitors:
Windscribe wins on: Free plan, unlimited devices, flexible pricing
NordVPN wins on: Server network (8,800+), faster speeds, streaming reliability
Windscribe wins on: Free plan, lower price, unlimited devices
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed consistency, server locations, live chat support
Windscribe vs PureVPN
Windscribe wins on: R.O.B.E.R.T. blocker, free plan, device flexibility
PureVPN wins on: Dedicated IP options, lower long-term pricing
Windscribe vs Surfshark
Windscribe wins on: Free plan, Build A Plan flexibility, ad blocking
Surfshark wins on: Cheaper long-term plans, better streaming, CleanWeb
Windscribe vs ProtonVPN
Windscribe wins on: More free data (10GB vs unlimited but slow), R.O.B.E.R.T.
ProtonVPN wins on: Swiss jurisdiction, unlimited free data, Tor integration
Windscribe vs PrivadoVPN
Windscribe wins on: Bigger server network, more features, better app
PrivadoVPN wins on: Swiss-based privacy, simpler interface
Windscribe vs AdGuard VPN
Windscribe wins on: Free data amount, server network size, streaming
AdGuard VPN wins on: Tighter ad-blocking integration, AdGuard app suite
Windscribe vs CyberGhost
Windscribe wins on: Free plan, Build A Plan pricing, unlimited devices
CyberGhost wins on: Larger server network, dedicated streaming servers
Windscribe vs Private Internet Access
Windscribe wins on: Free plan, R.O.B.E.R.T. ad blocker, Build A Plan
PIA wins on: More servers, open-source apps, lower annual price
Windscribe vs Mysterium
Windscribe wins on: Easier to use, more server locations, streaming support
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use model
More of Mullvad Compared
Here’s how Mullvad stacks up against other competitors:
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous signup, open-source apps, flat pricing
NordVPN wins on: Server network, streaming, speed, features
Mullvad vs ExpressVPN
Mullvad wins on: Privacy focus, lower price, no personal data
ExpressVPN wins on: Streaming, server locations, customer support
Mullvad wins on: Privacy, audited no-logs, open-source code
PureVPN wins on: Streaming support, dedicated IPs, more features
Mullvad vs Surfshark
Mullvad wins on: Anonymity, independent audits, transparent pricing
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, streaming, cheaper long-term
Mullvad wins on: Cash payments, simpler pricing, no email required
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan, larger server network, Tor support
Mullvad wins on: Stronger privacy, open-source, audited servers
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan, Swiss jurisdiction, streaming
Mullvad wins on: Privacy, transparency, flat monthly pricing
CyberGhost wins on: Server count, streaming servers, longer refund
Mullvad vs Private Internet Access
Mullvad wins on: Anonymous payments, RAM-only servers, simpler app
PIA wins on: More servers, open-source apps, lower long-term price
Mullvad wins on: Established reputation, stable speeds, easier setup
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Windscribe VPN better than Mullvad?
Windscribe wins for most users. It has a free plan, unlimited devices, and unblocks streaming services. Mullvad is better only if maximum anonymity is your sole priority.
Is Mullvad VPN really anonymous?
Yes. Mullvad doesn’t ask for your email, name, or any personal data. You get a random 16-digit number. You can pay with cash or crypto for full anonymity.
Is Windscribe VPN totally free?
Windscribe offers a free plan with 10GB of data per month. Sign up with an email to get the full 10GB. Without email, you get 2GB. No credit card is needed.
Can Mullvad be used for Netflix?
No. Mullvad was blocked by Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer in our tests. Mullvad is built for privacy, not streaming. Use Windscribe or NordVPN for Netflix.
How much does Mullvad VPN cost per month?
Mullvad charges a flat €5 per month (about $5.50 USD). The price never changes whether you pay monthly or yearly. Crypto users get a 10% discount.
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