Compare HabitKit and Thunder VPN: Which App is the Best?

HabitKit is a beautifully designed habit tracking app that helps you form new habits with tile-based grid charts. It's privacy-focused, easy to use, and perfect for tracking daily, weekly, or monthly habits.
Thunder VPN is a highly-rated free VPN service with 100M+ downloads, offering fast connections and minimal ads, making it one of the better free VPN options available.
Key Features
  • GitHub-Style Progress Visualization – Track your habits with beautiful tile-based grid charts that provide a clear visual representation of your progress over time
  • Flexible Habit Goals – Set custom completion goals (daily, 3x/week, 20x/month, etc.) and track your streaks
  • Customizable Dashboard – Personalize each habit with custom colors and icons for an intuitive, visually appealing overview
  • Smart Reminders – Set custom notifications for each habit to help you stay on track
  • Calendar Integration – Easily manage past completions through an intuitive calendar view
  • Privacy-Focused Design – All your data stays on your device, with no account required and full offline functionality
  • Data Backup & Export – Export your habit data for safekeeping or when switching devices
  • Home Screen Widgets – Keep your habits visible and accessible with customizable widgets (Premium feature)
  • Archive System – Temporarily archive habits you want to pause without losing their history
  • Detailed Analytics – Track your progress with comprehensive statistics and streak information (Premium feature)
  • One-Tap Connection – Simple interface that connects to VPN servers with a single tap, making it accessible for VPN beginners
  • Unlimited Bandwidth – No data caps or speed restrictions on the free tier, allowing unlimited browsing and streaming
  • Global Server Network – Access to servers worldwide for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing blocked content
  • No Registration Required – Start using the VPN immediately without creating accounts or providing personal information
  • Manual Server Selection – Choose specific server locations for optimal performance
  • Minimal Advertising – Much less intrusive ads compared to other free VPNs
Our Rating
9.3
7.2
Total users
0
0
Total ratings
0
0
Average rating
— ⭐
— ⭐
Entry Level PriceFreeFree
Android
Google Play Store
Downloads
Google Play Store
Downloads
iOS
Apple App Store
Apple App Store
Features
8.5

HabitKit delivers a solid set of core habit tracking features, focusing on simplicity and effectiveness. The standout is the GitHub-style heatmap, which makes tracking your progress both motivating and visually satisfying.

Key features we found especially useful include:

  • Flexible Habit Tracking: Set habits for daily, weekly, or monthly goals (e.g., 3 times per week)
  • Custom Reminders: Each habit can have its own notification schedule
  • Calendar View: Easily fill in or edit past completions
  • Customization: Assign unique colors and icons to each habit
  • Data Backup: Export and import your data as needed
  • Archiving: Temporarily archive habits without deleting them

There are some limitations: the free version restricts you to 4 habits, which may not be enough for everyone, and there's no way to organize habits into categories or folders. Widgets are visually appealing but don't allow direct interaction. Still, the features that are present are thoughtfully implemented and work reliably. We rate features at 8.5—excellent for core functionality, but with room for more organizational tools.

For users who need unlimited habits without restrictions, Habitive offers a completely free alternative, while Loop Habit Tracker provides more comprehensive organizational features at no cost.

7.5

Thunder VPN delivers a solid foundation of core VPN features that meet the basic needs of most users. The app's feature set is straightforward and focused on simplicity rather than advanced functionality, which aligns well with its target audience of casual VPN users.

Key features we found most valuable include:

  • Unlimited Bandwidth: Unlike many free VPNs that impose data caps, Thunder VPN offers truly unlimited data usage, making it suitable for streaming and heavy browsing
  • One-Tap Connection: The interface is designed for simplicity with a prominent connect button that automatically selects the best server
  • Global Server Network: Access to servers worldwide for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing blocked content
  • No Registration Required: Users can start using the VPN immediately without creating accounts or providing personal information
  • Manual Server Selection: Choose specific server locations for optimal performance
  • Minimal Advertising: Much less intrusive ads compared to other free VPNs

However, Thunder VPN lacks many advanced features that users expect from premium VPN services. There's no kill switch to protect against connection drops, no split tunneling to route specific apps through the VPN, and no specialized servers for streaming or torrenting. The server selection is limited compared to premium alternatives.

While the core features work well for basic privacy and geo-unblocking needs, power users will find the feature set limiting. For users who need advanced features like kill switches, split tunneling, or specialized servers, alternatives like Proton VPN offer more comprehensive free tiers, while NordVPN provides extensive advanced features for premium users.

We rate features at 7.5 out of 10—good for basic VPN needs with better user experience than most free alternatives, but lacking the depth that serious users require.

Performance
9.2

HabitKit performs exceptionally well in day-to-day use. The app is lightweight, launches quickly, and all interactions—such as marking completions, navigating between views, and customizing habits—are smooth and responsive. Animations are fluid and add to the overall polished feel of the app without causing any lag.

We encountered very few bugs or crashes, and the app remained stable even when tracking a large number of habits (in the premium version). User reviews echo this experience, with most people praising the app's reliability and speed. A handful of users mentioned minor issues with widgets, such as sizing or display quirks on certain devices, but these did not affect the core functionality and were often addressed in updates.

Overall, HabitKit delivers a consistently fast and stable experience, both in our hands-on testing and according to the majority of user feedback. We rate its performance at 9.2 out of 10.

This performance rating places HabitKit among the top performers in the category, alongside HabitNow which also achieves a 9.0 rating, and Habitive which maintains an 8.8 rating despite being completely free.

6.5

Thunder VPN's performance presents a mixed picture that reflects the challenges of maintaining a free VPN service. While the app can deliver fast connections when working properly, reliability issues significantly impact the overall performance experience.

Performance strengths include:

  • Fast Connection Speeds: When connected, users report good speeds for browsing and streaming
  • Quick Connection Times: The app connects to servers relatively quickly when the connection is stable
  • Global Server Network: Access to servers worldwide provides good coverage for geo-unblocking
  • Lightweight App: The app itself is relatively small and doesn't consume excessive system resources
  • Minimal Advertising: Much less intrusive than competitors, improving perceived performance

However, significant performance issues undermine the user experience:

  • Frequent Connection Drops: Users consistently report that connections drop frequently, requiring reconnection
  • Inconsistent Reliability: Connection quality varies significantly between sessions and servers
  • Must Keep App Open: Users must keep the app window open to maintain connections, which can be inconvenient
  • Connection Instability: Many users report that the VPN disconnects after a few minutes of use
  • Slow Loading Times: Some users report occasional slow loading times

User reviews reveal a pattern of performance issues, with many users praising the app's speed when it works but complaining about frequent disconnections. The app's focus on user experience over aggressive monetization may be impacting server quality and maintenance.

For users seeking reliable performance, alternatives like Proton VPN offer more consistent free performance with better server maintenance, while NordVPN provides premium performance with dedicated servers and better reliability guarantees.

We rate performance at 6.5 out of 10—good speeds when working but undermined by frequent connection drops and stability issues that create an inconsistent user experience.

Design
9.5

HabitKit's design is one of its greatest strengths. The minimalist aesthetic strikes a perfect balance between beauty and usability. The GitHub-inspired tile grid is not only visually appealing but also serves as a powerful motivational tool—watching your chosen colors fill the grid is genuinely satisfying.

We especially liked:

  • Clean Dashboard: A clutter-free grid layout that's both attractive and functional
  • Color Customization: Assigning colors to habits makes it easy to distinguish between them at a glance
  • Intuitive Icons: A comprehensive icon selection helps create visual associations with your goals
  • Consistent Theme: The design language is cohesive across all screens
  • Beautiful Widgets: Home screen widgets match the app's aesthetic and provide useful information

Animations are smooth and purposeful, and the typography is clear and readable. While the minimalist approach may feel sparse to some, especially when managing many habits, we found it refreshing and effective. We rate design at 9.5.

This design excellence sets HabitKit apart from competitors like Habitica, which focuses on gamification, and HabitNow, which prioritizes comprehensive scheduling features over visual polish.

8.0

Thunder VPN's design philosophy centers on simplicity and user experience, which works exceptionally well for its target audience. The interface is clean, intuitive, and focuses on functionality rather than flashy design elements.

Design strengths we observed include:

  • Clean Interface: The main screen features a simple, intuitive layout with the connect button as the focal point
  • Clear Visual Feedback: Connection status is clearly indicated with color-coded states (connected/disconnected)
  • Minimalist Approach: The app avoids overwhelming users with complex settings or technical jargon
  • Consistent Branding: The visual design maintains consistency across different screens
  • Accessible Design: Large buttons and clear text make it usable for users of all technical levels
  • Minimal Advertising: The app's focus on user experience means less intrusive advertising

The design experience is significantly better than competitors like Turbo VPN and Now VPN, with much less advertising interruption. Users consistently praise the app's clean interface and ease of use, making it one of the most user-friendly free VPNs available.

While the core interface design is solid, some users report that the app requires keeping the window open to maintain connections, which can be inconvenient. However, this is a minor issue compared to the overall design quality.

For users who value a clean, uninterrupted interface, Thunder VPN offers one of the best free experiences available. Alternatives like Proton VPN offer similar design quality with better privacy protection, while Windscribe VPN provides a comparable free experience with fewer restrictions.

We rate design at 8.0 out of 10—excellent design principles with minimal advertising that creates a genuinely user-friendly experience.

Value for Money
9.5

HabitKit offers a strong value proposition, especially when compared to other habit trackers. The free version is genuinely useful for those with minimal needs, providing all core tracking features and a beautiful, ad-free experience. However, it does limit you to tracking just 4 habits, which several users found restrictive if you want to monitor more aspects of your life.

Upgrading to premium unlocks unlimited habits, widgets, advanced analytics, and data backup/export. Pricing is fair and transparent, with options for a monthly, yearly, or one-time lifetime purchase. Many users appreciate the availability of a lifetime license, which is rare among productivity apps and offers excellent long-term value. The premium features are genuinely useful and not just cosmetic add-ons.

We also liked that there are no hidden costs, no ads, and no data collection, which adds to the sense of getting good value for your money. While some users wished the free version allowed tracking a few more habits, most agreed that the premium upgrade is worth it if the app fits your workflow. Overall, HabitKit delivers a high-quality experience at a reasonable price, and we rate its value for money at 9.5 out of 10.

However, for users seeking maximum value without any cost, Habitive offers a perfect 10.0 rating by providing unlimited habits completely free, while Loop Habit Tracker achieves the same perfect score by offering premium-quality features at no cost.

8.0

Thunder VPN's value proposition is significantly better than most free VPNs, offering a genuinely useful free service with minimal advertising and good performance. The app provides excellent value for users who can tolerate occasional connection issues.

Value strengths include:

  • Truly Free Core Service: Unlimited bandwidth and server access without time limits or data caps
  • No Upfront Costs: Users can start using the VPN immediately without payment or registration
  • Unlimited Usage: Unlike many free VPNs, there are no daily or monthly data limits
  • Global Server Access: Free access to servers worldwide for geo-unblocking
  • No Registration Required: Start using the service immediately without providing personal information
  • Minimal Advertising: Much less intrusive than competitors like Turbo VPN and Now VPN

The free tier's value is significantly better than most free VPNs, with minimal advertising and good performance. However, some limitations affect the overall value:

  • Connection Stability: Frequent connection drops require reconnection
  • Must Keep App Open: Users must keep the app window open to maintain connections
  • Limited Advanced Features: No kill switch, split tunneling, or specialized servers

The premium pricing is reasonable ($1.99-$59.99), but the connection stability issues may not justify the upgrade for many users. Premium VPN services like NordVPN and Surfshark VPN offer more comprehensive features and better reliability for similar or lower costs.

For users seeking genuine value, Thunder VPN offers one of the best free experiences available. Alternatives like Proton VPN offer a more generous free tier with better privacy protection, while Windscribe VPN provides a more reliable free experience with fewer restrictions.

We rate value for money at 8.0 out of 10—excellent value for a free VPN with minimal advertising and good performance, though connection stability issues limit the overall experience.

Ease of Use
9.5

HabitKit is remarkably intuitive and user-friendly. The "less is more" philosophy makes it easy to get started and maintain your habits without confusion or clutter.

Highlights include:

  • Quick Habit Creation: Setting up a new habit takes just seconds—name it, pick an icon and color, and you're ready to go
  • One-Tap Tracking: Marking habits as complete is as simple as tapping a tile
  • Clear Visual Feedback: The color-coded grid instantly shows your progress
  • Intuitive Calendar: Retroactively adding or removing completions is straightforward
  • Simple Navigation: All core functions are accessible within a tap or two

The only minor quirk is that reordering habits requires a long-press, which isn't immediately obvious to new users. Once learned, it's easy to use. We rate ease of use an 9.5.

While HabitKit excels in simplicity, Habitive offers an even more streamlined experience with its 3-click setup, and Loop Habit Tracker provides more advanced features while maintaining excellent usability.

7.0

Thunder VPN excels in basic usability with its one-tap connection approach, making it one of the most accessible VPN apps for beginners. The core functionality is genuinely simple and requires no technical knowledge to operate effectively.

Usability strengths include:

  • One-Tap Connection: The primary action is as simple as tapping a single button—no configuration or technical setup required
  • No Registration: Users can start using the VPN immediately without creating accounts or providing personal information
  • Automatic Server Selection: The app handles server selection automatically, removing the complexity of choosing optimal servers
  • Clear Status Indicators: Connection status is immediately visible with clear visual feedback
  • Cross-Platform Consistency: The interface works similarly across Android and iOS devices
  • Minimal Advertising: Much less intrusive than competitors like Turbo VPN and Now VPN

However, the ease of use is somewhat undermined by connection stability issues. Users report that the app requires keeping the window open to maintain connections, which can be inconvenient. Additionally, frequent connection drops require reconnection, which interrupts the user experience.

While the core interface is genuinely easy to use, the connection stability issues compromise the overall user experience. For users seeking a truly hassle-free VPN experience, alternatives like Proton VPN offer a cleaner free tier with better connection stability, while Windscribe VPN provides a more reliable free experience.

We rate ease of use at 7.0 out of 10—excellent core usability with good interface design, but undermined by connection stability issues that require user intervention.

Security & Privacy
9.8

HabitKit stands out for its privacy-first approach. All data is stored locally on your device, with no account required and no remote servers involved. The app works fully offline, so there's no risk of data interception, and you can export your data manually whenever you wish.

We found no evidence of third-party analytics or tracking tools. The app only requests essential permissions, such as notifications for reminders. This commitment to privacy is rare and highly appreciated. The only small drawback is that backups are manual, so you'll need to remember to export your data regularly. We rate security and privacy at 9.8.

This privacy focus puts HabitKit in excellent company with Loop Habit Tracker, which also achieves a 9.8 rating for its open-source, offline-first approach, and Habitive, which maintains a 9.0 rating by keeping all data local without requiring accounts.

6.0

Thunder VPN's security and privacy practices present a mixed picture that raises some concerns for privacy-conscious users. While the app claims to offer secure connections and privacy protection, several factors undermine confidence in its privacy commitments.

Security strengths include:

  • Encrypted Connections: The app provides encrypted tunnels for data transmission, protecting users on public WiFi networks
  • No Registration Required: Users can use the service without providing personal information or creating accounts
  • Basic Privacy Protection: IP address masking and location spoofing for basic privacy needs
  • Standard VPN Protocols: Uses established VPN protocols for secure connections
  • No-Logging Policy: Claims to maintain a strict no-logging policy

However, some privacy concerns emerge from user feedback and business practices:

  • US-Based Developer: The developer is located in the United States, which raises questions about data jurisdiction and potential government access
  • No Independent Audits: Unlike premium VPNs, Thunder VPN hasn't undergone third-party security audits to verify its privacy claims
  • Data Harvesting Concerns: Some users report concerns about data harvesting, though this isn't explicitly confirmed
  • No Transparency Reports: No public transparency reports about government requests or data handling practices
  • Free Service Concerns: The completely free model raises questions about how the service is monetized

User reviews reveal mixed experiences, with some users praising the app's privacy features while others express concerns about data collection. The lack of transparency about the service's data handling practices further undermines trust.

For users who prioritize privacy and security, alternatives like Proton VPN offer Swiss-based privacy protection with independent audits and transparency reports, while Windscribe VPN provides Canadian privacy protection with more transparent data handling practices.

We rate security and privacy at 6.0 out of 10—basic security features present but concerns about data handling, jurisdiction, and transparency that compromise trust in the service.

Conclusion

HabitKit has proven itself to be a standout habit tracking app that truly delivers on its promises. Its greatest strength lies in its simplicity and focus—it does one thing exceptionally well, rather than trying to be everything for everyone.

The app's beautiful design, intuitive interface, and strong privacy focus make it a compelling choice for anyone serious about building better habits. While the free version's 4-habit limit may be restrictive for some, the premium upgrade offers excellent value for those who need more comprehensive tracking.

We especially appreciate the developer's commitment to privacy and the option for a lifetime purchase, rather than forcing users into a subscription. Regular updates and responsive support suggest this is an app that will continue to improve over time.

If you're looking for a clean, efficient, and privacy-focused way to track your habits, HabitKit is an excellent choice that we can confidently recommend. However, if you need unlimited free habits, Habitive offers the best free experience, while Loop Habit Tracker provides exceptional privacy features at no cost. For users who value design excellence and are willing to pay for premium features, HabitKit represents the perfect balance of form and function.

Thunder VPN represents one of the better free VPN options available, offering a genuinely useful service with minimal advertising and good performance. While the app delivers on its core promise of free, unlimited VPN access with simple one-tap connection, connection stability issues and the need to keep the app window open create some usability concerns.

The app's exceptional popularity (100M+ downloads, 4.8-star rating) reflects genuine demand for a user-friendly free VPN service, and many users do find value in its basic functionality. However, the frequent connection drops and stability issues suggest that the free model may be impacting server quality and maintenance. For users who can tolerate occasional connection issues, Thunder VPN provides a functional free VPN with minimal advertising.

For users seeking a more reliable free VPN experience, Proton VPN offers better privacy protection and connection stability, while Windscribe VPN provides a more reliable free tier with fewer restrictions. For those willing to pay for premium features, NordVPN and Surfshark VPN offer more comprehensive solutions with better reliability and privacy guarantees.

Our Recommendation