Compare Windscribe VPN and Disciplined: Which App is the Best?

Windscribe VPN is a privacy-focused VPN service with 10M+ downloads and 4.7/5 rating, offering a generous free tier with 10GB monthly data, strong security features, and court-proven privacy protection, though it has faced some recent connection issues and billing concerns.
Disciplined is a clean, effective habit tracker that helps you build consistent routines through simple tracking and visual progress monitoring.
Key Features
  • 10GB free monthly data – Generous free tier with no time limits
  • Court-proven privacy protection – No-logs policy backed up in real legal cases
  • Tracker & threat blocking – Block advertisers and filter malicious sites
  • Split tunneling – Route only selected apps through the VPN
  • Multiple VPN protocols – WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, Stealth, and Wstunnel
  • DNS leak protection – Keep your browsing history private
  • Firewall kill switch – Block all traffic if VPN connection drops
  • Multi-platform support – Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, browsers
  • Open-source and audited – Transparent security practices
  • Customizable Habits – Set up habits that fit your life with flexible scheduling
  • Visual Progress – See your streaks and progress with clear charts and trackers
  • Smart Reminders – Get notifications that help you stay on track
  • Detailed Stats – Understand your habits better with in-depth analytics
  • Flexible Scheduling – Set habits for daily, weekly, or custom intervals
  • Cross-Device Sync – Your data follows you across all your devices
Our Rating
7.9
7.6
Total users
0
0
Total ratings
0
0
Average rating
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Entry Level PriceFreeFree
Android
Google Play Store
Downloads
Google Play Store
Downloads
iOS
Apple App Store
Apple App Store
Features
8.0

Windscribe VPN offers a comprehensive set of features that justify its privacy-focused positioning. The service includes military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and advanced security protocols. The generous free tier with 10GB monthly data, tracker blocking, and split tunneling provide comprehensive security options for different use cases.

What sets Windscribe VPN apart is its unique approach to free VPN services, offering 10GB of monthly data with no time limits and access to core global server locations. Unlike Turbo VPN with ads, Windscribe offers a cleaner 10GB free tier. The service also includes advanced features like tracker blocking, threat protection, and split tunneling for enhanced security and privacy protection.

However, the service lacks some advanced features found in newer VPN providers, such as specialized servers for specific use cases and some cutting-edge privacy features. The service also doesn't offer some advanced features like obfuscated servers or specialized streaming servers that some competitors provide.

Compared to other free VPNs like Proton VPN or Thunder VPN, Windscribe VPN offers significantly more features, but the connection stability issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives. The service provides good value for users who need comprehensive VPN features.

7.5

Disciplined covers the basics of habit tracking well without overwhelming you with unnecessary features. It focuses on what matters most - helping you build and maintain good habits. The app keeps things simple, which many users actually prefer.

Here's what works well:

  • Easy Habit Setup: Creating habits with custom schedules and goals is straightforward
  • Clear Progress Views: You can easily see how you're doing with visual trackers and calendar views
  • Helpful Reminders: Custom notifications that actually help you stay consistent
  • Sync Across Devices: Your data follows you from phone to tablet to computer
  • Home Screen Widgets: Quick habit checking without opening the app

But there are some limitations. The free version locks away detailed statistics, which frustrates some users. People also want features like grouping related habits together, adding notes to habits, and better streak tracking. While the core tracking works great, the feature set feels a bit basic compared to some alternatives.

That's why we give features a 7.5. It's solid for basic habit tracking but missing some advanced capabilities that power users might want.

Performance
6.5

Windscribe VPN's performance is inconsistent, with good speeds when working but frequent connection issues that significantly impact usability. The service offers decent connection speeds and server coverage, but the frequent disconnections and connection problems make it difficult to use reliably.

The service works well for basic geo-blocking and content access when connected, but many users report frequent connection drops and the need to manually reconnect multiple times per day. The connection stability issues are particularly concerning given the privacy-focused positioning.

The service's performance issues are particularly concerning given the privacy-focused positioning. Users expect reliability and performance from a privacy-focused service, but Windscribe VPN's connection problems make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives that offer similar features with better performance.

Compared to other privacy-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Windscribe VPN's performance is below average. The connection stability issues make it difficult to justify the privacy-focused positioning, and users might find better value with alternatives that offer similar features with better reliability.

7.0

Disciplined's performance is generally solid, but there are concerning reports about lag and stability issues that prevent a higher rating. Performance seems to vary depending on your device and how you use the app.

Here's what works well:

  • Quick Launch: The app starts fast and navigation feels responsive
  • Reliable Core Functions: Basic habit tracking and UI interactions work consistently
  • Stable Widgets: Home screen widgets work well without causing system issues
  • Smooth Sync: Data synchronization across devices appears to work reliably

But there are performance concerns that impact the rating. Several users report that the latest version became "laggy" on their devices, with one user noting that the app made their phone slow and eventually stopped working. Some mention bugs that prevented them from getting value from the app, especially after paying for premium. These issues appearing in recent reviews suggest ongoing performance challenges that need attention.

We give performance a 7.0 - generally good, but the reported lag issues and occasional bugs prevent a higher score. Users with older devices should be particularly cautious.

Design
8.5

Windscribe VPN's interface strikes an excellent balance between functionality and user-friendliness. The main screen provides quick access to connection controls, server selection, and key settings. The server selection process is intuitive and visually appealing, making it easy to choose servers in different countries.

The app's design is clean and professional, with a modern interface that's easy on the eyes. The connection status is clearly displayed, and the kill switch toggle is easily accessible. The settings menu is well-organized, allowing users to customize their experience without feeling overwhelmed.

The interface is generally user-friendly and doesn't overwhelm users with complex options. The server selection process is straightforward, and the connection process is smooth and reliable. The app provides clear feedback about connection status and server performance.

Compared to other privacy-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Windscribe VPN's design is competitive and well-polished. The interface is functional and professional, with good attention to detail and user experience. The design reflects the privacy-focused positioning of the service.

8.5

Disciplined's design is one of its best features. Users consistently praise the clean, intuitive interface. We love how it keeps things simple and focuses on what matters most.

Here's what makes the design great:

  • Clean Layout: No clutter or distractions - just what you need to track habits
  • Easy Navigation: Finding and using features feels natural and logical
  • Clear Progress: Visual indicators that motivate you to keep going
  • Consistent Look: The design feels cohesive throughout the app
  • Good Widgets: Home screen widgets that look good and work well

Some users mention areas for improvement, especially around widget customization. One user wished the widget could be more transparent to better match their home screen. The "less is more" approach works well for a habit tracker, though some users might want more visual feedback or customization options.

We give design an 8.5 - excellent for its clean, functional approach, with room for minor aesthetic improvements.

Value for Money
8.0

Windscribe VPN's value proposition is strong, with a generous free tier and comprehensive security features for a competitive price. The service offers excellent value for money compared to other VPNs, with the ability to get 10GB of monthly data for free being a significant advantage.

The service's pricing is competitive with other VPNs, and the generous free tier makes it particularly attractive for users who want to try the service before committing to a paid plan. Unlike Turbo VPN with ads, Windscribe offers a cleaner 10GB free tier. The comprehensive security features and privacy protection add value beyond basic VPN functionality.

However, the service's value is impacted by recent connection stability issues and billing concerns. Many users report frequent disconnections and the need to manually reconnect multiple times per day. The connection stability issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives like Proton VPN.

Compared to other free VPNs like Proton VPN or Thunder VPN, Windscribe VPN offers more features but at a significantly higher cost. The connection stability issues make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives that offer similar performance with fewer limitations.

7.0

Disciplined's value is mixed - users have different opinions about whether the premium features are worth the cost. The pricing strategy and feature distribution significantly impact the overall value.

Here's what's good about the value:

  • Free Core Features: Basic habit tracking is free, so you can test the app first
  • Lifetime Purchase: One-time payments instead of forced subscriptions
  • Reasonable Premium: Prices range from €2.39 to €29.99, which is fair compared to competitors
  • No Ads: Clean experience without intrusive advertising

But several factors limit the value rating. Many users are frustrated that basic features like detailed statistics are locked behind the premium paywall. Some feel the free version is too limited, while others mention performance issues and bugs that reduce the perceived value. The fact that some users uninstall due to upgrade prompts suggests the freemium model could be better balanced.

We give value for money a 7.0 - fair pricing for what's offered, but the free version limitations and some user-reported issues impact the overall value perception.

Ease of Use
7.5

Windscribe VPN is generally easy to use for basic VPN functionality, with a simple one-tap connection process that requires no technical knowledge. The app's interface is intuitive, and most users can get connected quickly without any setup or configuration.

The service offers automatic server selection and connection, making it accessible to users of all technical levels. The app doesn't require complex configuration, and the connection process is straightforward. The service works well for most use cases and provides good performance when functioning properly.

However, the service's ease of use is compromised by recent connection stability issues. Many users report frequent connection drops and the need to manually reconnect multiple times per day. The app can be slow to connect, and some users experience issues with the auto-connect feature not working reliably.

Compared to other privacy-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Windscribe VPN's ease of use is similar but not significantly better. The connection stability issues can be frustrating for users who expect reliability from a privacy-focused service, and the premium pricing doesn't translate to a significantly better user experience.

8.0

Disciplined is really easy to use. Most users find it intuitive and straightforward. We can't think of a simpler habit tracker to get started with. The app's simplicity is its biggest strength when it comes to ease of use.

Here's what makes it user-friendly:

  • Quick Start: You can begin tracking habits almost immediately after installing
  • Simple Menus: Clear structure and logical flow between features
  • Easy Management: Adding, editing, and tracking habits takes minimal effort
  • Intuitive Design: Most functions are easy to discover without tutorials
  • Responsive: Smooth interactions and quick response times

But there are some usability issues that prevent a higher rating. Several users find the repeatability settings confusing, especially when setting up habits for quitting bad behaviors. Some also want features like adding notes to habits or grouping related habits together. While the basics are easy to use, some advanced features could use better guidance.

That's why we give ease of use an 8.0. It's extremely user-friendly for basic operations, though some advanced features might take a little time to figure out.

Security & Privacy
9.0

Windscribe VPN takes security and privacy seriously, with military-grade encryption and a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited. The service uses AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols. The kill switch protection ensures that internet traffic is blocked if the VPN connection drops.

The service's no-logs policy is comprehensive and has been verified by independent security firms. Windscribe VPN is based in Canada, which provides some legal protection for user privacy. The service also includes advanced features like tracker blocking and threat protection for enhanced security and privacy protection.

However, Windscribe VPN has faced some security concerns in the past, particularly around its data collection practices. While the company has maintained its privacy commitments, some users remain concerned about the service's data practices. The service also lacks some advanced privacy features found in newer VPN providers.

Compared to other privacy-focused VPNs like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Windscribe VPN's security practices are solid but not exceptional. The service provides good protection for most users, but those with high security requirements might want to consider alternatives with more advanced privacy features.

7.5

Disciplined's approach to security and privacy seems standard for a habit tracking app, though we found limited specific information about their data practices during testing.

Here's what we know:

  • Cross-Device Sync: The app syncs data across devices, suggesting cloud storage or an account system
  • Standard Permissions: Requests typical permissions for notifications and basic functionality
  • Data Storage: Your habit data is stored and accessible across platforms

But there are some concerns that prevent a higher rating. The app has privacy policy and terms of service on their website, but we couldn't find details about data encryption, third-party sharing, or specific security measures. The fact that it syncs data across devices raises questions about how secure the data transmission and storage are.

We give security and privacy a 7.5 - adequate for basic use, but users concerned about data privacy should check the app's privacy policy for more specific details.

Conclusion
Windscribe VPN is a privacy-focused VPN service that offers excellent value with a generous free tier and court-proven privacy protection, but its value proposition is compromised by recent connection stability issues and billing concerns. The service provides good security and privacy protection, but the connection problems and billing issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives. For users who prioritize privacy and are willing to work within the free tier limitations, Windscribe VPN offers a solid feature set with good performance when working. However, those seeking unlimited data or experiencing connection issues might find better value with alternatives that offer more reliable performance with fewer limitations. Ultimately, Windscribe VPN's privacy-focused approach and generous free tier make it a good choice for privacy-conscious users, but the connection stability issues and billing concerns make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives like Proton VPN that offer similar features with better performance.

Disciplined is a solid choice if you want a simple, effective habit tracker. It doesn't try to be everything to everyone - it just does habit tracking really well. The clean design makes it easy to use, and the pricing is fair for what you get.

The free version is limited, but the premium upgrade is worth it if you want better analytics and features. This app's strength is that it stays focused on helping you build better habits without overwhelming you with unnecessary complexity.

For users who want unlimited free habits, Habitive is the best option. Those seeking elegant design might prefer HabitKit with its beautiful GitHub-style visualization. If you want gamification, Habitica offers unique RPG elements. However, if you prefer simplicity and focus without distractions, Disciplined provides exactly what you need.

Quick Summary

Best for: People who want simple, effective habit tracking without distractions

Not ideal for: Users who need advanced analytics or social features

Value: Good free version, reasonable premium pricing

Our Recommendation