SoftsCR’s VPN section gives you four major VPN options for Windows: Hotspot Shield 12.9.7, Turbo VPN, SurfShark, and PlanetVPN. Each protects your internet connection with encryption, but they serve different use cases and come with different limitations. This guide compares all four side by side so you can download the right one without trial and error.

Hotspot Shield 12.9.7: Speed-Focused with a Solid Free Tier

Hotspot Shield uses its proprietary Hydra protocol, which is specifically engineered for speed on congested networks. The free tier on Windows includes AES-256 encryption and works well for general browsing and streaming. The free version is limited to the US server and has a daily bandwidth cap. For users who primarily want fast, secure browsing without needing to choose a specific country, Hotspot Shield’s free tier is one of the better options available. Available on SoftsCR.

Turbo VPN: Lightest Install, Simplest Setup

At just 38 MB, Turbo VPN is the lightest install in SoftsCR’s VPN lineup. It uses a one-click connection model; no account is required to start. Making it the most accessible option for users who want to be protected in under 60 seconds. It supports AES-256 encryption and includes a no-logs policy. The free tier includes limited server selection, but the core protection is solid. Best for users who want immediate protection without configuration. Available on SoftsCR.

SurfShark: Best for Multi-Device Users

SurfShark stands out because it allows unlimited simultaneous device connections on a single account; no other major VPN matches this. On Windows, it runs at 97 MB and includes AES-256-GCM encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy. The CleanWeb feature blocks ads and malware at the VPN level, meaning it works across every app on your PC, not just your browser. SurfShark is a premium VPN, but it is available as a free download on SoftsCR.

PlanetVPN: The Genuinely Unlimited Free Option

PlanetVPN on SoftsCR delivers something rare in the VPN market: unlimited bandwidth on the free tier with no registration required. It uses AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy. Server selection on the free tier is limited compared to paid plans, but for general privacy protection and bypassing regional restrictions, PlanetVPN’s free tier is one of the most generous available. At 115 MB for Windows, it installs cleanly without bundled software.

All Four VPNs at a Glance

Here is a side-by-side comparison of the four VPNs available on SoftsCR for Windows:

Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 WARP: The Bonus Option

SoftsCR also carries Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 WARP,  a hybrid between a DNS resolver and a VPN. It does not hide your IP address like a traditional VPN, but it encrypts your DNS queries and routes traffic through Cloudflare’s network for improved speed and privacy. At 127 MB, it is best described as a privacy layer rather than a full VPN. Use it alongside one of the four main VPNs for maximum protection, or on its own if speed is your primary concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which VPN on SoftsCR is best for streaming?

SurfShark has the strongest streaming unblocking capability among the four options. Hotspot Shield is fast but limited to US servers on the free tier.

Does PlanetVPN really have unlimited free bandwidth?

Yes! PlanetVPN’s free Windows tier on SoftsCR includes unlimited bandwidth with no registration. Server locations are limited compared to the paid plan.

Which VPN installs fastest?

Turbo VPN at 38 MB installs the quickest. Hotspot Shield at 27.9 MB is even smaller but requires account setup.

Is Cloudflare WARP a replacement for a VPN?

No! WARP encrypts DNS traffic and routes it through Cloudflare’s network for speed and privacy, but it does not hide your IP address like a traditional VPN.