TunnelBear is a public VPN service created by Daniel Kaldor and Ryan Dochuk in 2011, based in Toronto, Canada. In March 2018, TunnelBear was acquired by McAfee.
For years it has been one of the most recognizable names in the VPN market, thanks in no small part to its playful branding and ease of use. But does it live up to its reputation? Here’s a look at TunnelBear’s key features, pricing, pros and cons, and who it’s best suited for.
Key Features
1. Strong Security Protocols
TunnelBear uses AES 256-bit encryption, a gold standard in cybersecurity. It supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols, ensuring robust protection against cyber threats.
2. No-Logs Policy
TunnelBear operates a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t collect or store user activity. It has even undergone several independent audits to verify its claims.
3. Global Server Network
TunnelBear offers 8000+ servers in over 49+ countries, enabling users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content worldwide. While the server count is modest compared to larger VPN providers, it’s adequate for most casual users.
4. VigilantBear (Kill Switch)
This feature automatically cuts off your internet connection if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly, protecting your IP address from being exposed.
5. GhostBear Mode
The GhostBear feature makes VPN traffic harder to detect, helping users bypass restrictive networks or VPN blocks, particularly in censorship-heavy regions.
6. Simultaneous Connections
Users can connect up to 5 devices simultaneously, making it ideal for small households or individuals with multiple gadgets.
7. Easy-to-Use Interface
TunnelBear’s interface is simple and visually appealing, featuring a cartoon bear that “tunnels” to your selected server location, adding a touch of whimsy to the user experience.
8. SplitBear (Split Tunneling)
This feature lets you decide which apps and websites use TunnelBear’s secure, encrypted connection.
9. Peer-to-Pere (P2P) support
This feature provides friendly servers that allow you to share files securely and privately.
Pricing Plans
TunnelBear offers three pricing tiers:
Free Plan: Provides 2GB of secured browsing per month, perfect for light users.
Unlimited Plan: $3.33 per month (billed annually), offering unlimited data and access to all features.
Team Plan: $5.75 per user per month, tailored for businesses and teams.
While TunnelBear’s pricing is competitive, the free plan’s data cap may feel restrictive for those who need a VPN for streaming or heavy browsing, it also has a 7-day free trial period.
Pros
- User-Friendly Design: Perfect for beginners, with a fun and intuitive interface.
- Strong Security: Industry-standard encryption and independent audits ensure trust.
- Global Coverage: Servers in 49+ countries offer good accessibility.
- Free Plan: A risk-free way to try the service.GhostBear Mode: Helps users in restrictive regions bypass censorship.
Cons
- Limited Features: Lacks advanced options like split tunneling or dedicated IP addresses.
- Data Cap on Free Plan: 2GB per month isn’t sufficient for frequent users.
- No Live Chat Support: Customer support is limited to email and a knowledge base.
- Inconsistent Speeds: While adequate for most activities, speeds can drop during high traffic.
- No money-back guarantee: It doesn’t offer a money-back guarantee, so you won’t get a refund if you cancel your subscription after purchase. Their policy states, “All amounts paid are non-refundable.
Who Is TunnelBear Best For?
TunnelBear is ideal for:
- Beginners: Its simplicity makes it perfect for those new to VPNs.
- Casual Users: People who need a VPN for light browsing, occasional streaming, or accessing geo-blocked content.
- Travelers: Its GhostBear mode is useful for bypassing restrictions in countries with heavy censorship.
- Budget-Conscious Users: The free plan is a good entry point, and the unlimited plan is affordable for most.
Conclusion
Standing out for its playful design, user-friendly interface, and solid security features, TunnelBear while missing the advanced capabilities of some competitors, is a great choice for casual users and VPN beginners. If you’re looking for a simple, affordable, and trustworthy VPN to protect your online activities, TunnelBear is worth considering.
For power users or those seeking more advanced features, options like ExpressVPN or NordVPN might be more suitable. However, for everyday privacy needs, TunnelBear delivers a secure and enjoyable experience.
