TunnelBear VPN: Simple Privacy with Transparent Security

TunnelBear VPN at a Glance

TunnelBear has built their reputation as a user-friendly privacy solution for both personal users and small businesses. As a private network provider, they aim to make online security accessible through their simple, visually engaging platform. Acquired by McAfee in 2018, TunnelBear has retained their original brand identity, continuing to focus on ease of use while benefiting from McAfee’s security resources. With coverage in over 45 countries and availability in several languages, TunnelBear supports a global user base looking for straightforward privacy protection. The service caters especially to those new to VPNs, as well as privacy-conscious individuals seeking a straightforward, trustworthy VPN solution.

TunnelBear’s VPN features include access to their “GhostBear” mode, which helps bypass VPN blocks, making it a versatile tool for users facing restricted networks. Though they do not offer a free trial, they provide a free plan with a monthly data cap, allowing new users to try out the service before committing to a paid plan. Their server network, while smaller than some competitors, includes locations in North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond, making it a well-rounded choice for essential VPN needs.

In terms of reputation, TunnelBear has received positive recognition in the VPN industry for their user-friendly design and commitment to transparency. While they may not be BBB-accredited, their independent audits, alongside regular updates, have garnered credibility among privacy-focused users and industry reviewers alike. By blending simplicity with reliable security measures, this company has positioned themselves as a trustworthy option for users seeking straightforward online protection without sacrificing quality.

TunnelBear VPN Features & Services

• Global server network: TunnelBear offers servers in over 45 countries, covering key locations in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. While smaller than some competitors, this network is designed for reliable, essential coverage to meet most users’ privacy needs
• AES-256 encryption: This VPN uses strong AES-256 encryption, the industry standard for data protection. This level of encryption ensures that your internet activities are secure and shielded from prying eyes, providing a strong layer of security
• No-logs policy: TunnelBear adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not record or store information about your online activity. This commitment to privacy makes it a solid choice for users who prioritize data protection and want assurance that their browsing data remains private
• Annual independent security audits: To enhance transparency, TunnelBear undergoes annual independent security audits, with results publicly available. These audits allow users to verify the integrity of their security practices, making it one of the few VPN providers to offer this level of openness
• GhostBear mode: This unique feature is designed to help users bypass VPN restrictions in countries where VPN use is limited or monitored. GhostBear disguises VPN traffic, making it less detectable by restrictive networks and firewalls, providing extra accessibility in censored regions
• Split tunneling (Android and Windows only): TunnelBear offers split tunneling on their Android app and on Windows, allowing users to choose which apps use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet. This feature is particularly useful when wanting to secure certain apps while maintaining direct local access for others
• VigilantBear (Kill Switch): TunnelBear includes a kill switch called VigilantBear, which automatically blocks internet access if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This feature helps protect user data by preventing unencrypted traffic from leaking
• Intuitive user interface: TunnelBear is known for their easy-to-use and visually appealing interface, featuring animated bears that “tunnel” to selected locations. This design is approachable for new users, simplifying the VPN experience
• Free plan with monthly data cap: TunnelBear provides a free plan with a 2GB monthly data limit, allowing users to test the service before committing to a subscription. This option is ideal for light users or those who want a trial experience

VPN protocols and speeds

TunnelBear VPN employs several secure protocols to provide flexible connectivity across devices. For most platforms, it offers OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, both of which are considered secure and offer a good balance of speed and protection. OpenVPN is the default choice on many VPNs due to its reliable performance, especially for standard internet browsing, streaming, and gaming. They also support IPSec on iOS devices, which is ideal for mobile users as it reconnects quickly when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data networks.

Recently, TunnelBear introduced WireGuard on some platforms, a protocol known for its streamlined code and faster speeds, particularly for activities requiring high bandwidth, such as streaming in HD and low-latency gaming. For users focused on speed, TunnelBear’s Fastest Tunnel feature automatically connects to the closest server, helping reduce data travel distance and increase speeds.

When it comes to performance, TunnelBear’s speeds are generally stable but can vary based on distance from the server. Speed tests show this VPN performs well on local servers but may slow on distant servers, which is typical of most VPNs. For users experiencing connection issues, TCP Override is available, which prioritizes stability over speed by switching from UDP to TCP protocol, though this may slightly reduce connection speed.

TunnelBear’s protocols and features make it a versatile choice for regular internet use, though it may not be optimized for unblocking certain geo-restricted streaming services like Netflix. Still, with reliable encryption and connectivity features, TunnelBear provides solid speed and security for most browsing needs.

TunnelBear's Security & Privacy Measures

TunnelBear VPN emphasizes user privacy through a combination of strong encryption, independent security audits, and a clear no-logs policy.

256-bit AES encryption
TunnelBear uses AES-256 encryption, commonly referred to as “Grizzly-grade encryption,” which is the standard for military and government data security. This encryption ensures that user data is safeguarded from external threats.

No-logs policy
TunnelBear operates a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not collect or store user data such as IP addresses, DNS queries, or browsing activity. It does retain minimal data, such as the operating system version and amount of data used, which cannot link users to specific online actions. This policy is designed to prioritize privacy without compromising service quality.

Annual independent security audits
TunnelBear is one of the few VPN providers that conduct comprehensive, independent security audits annually, which are publicly available. These audits, carried out by security firm Cure53, examine all aspects of their VPN infrastructure, including applications and backend systems, to identify and address vulnerabilities, enhancing user trust in the service.

VigilantBear (Kill Switch)
TunnelBear’s kill switch, known as VigilantBear, disconnects internet access if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops. This feature prevents data leaks, ensuring that users’ traffic remains encrypted at all times.

GhostBear (Obfuscation)
For users in regions with restrictive internet policies, GhostBear mode conceals VPN traffic to make it appear like regular internet traffic. This obfuscation feature is particularly useful in bypassing censorship or avoiding VPN blocks on restrictive networks.

Secure DNS and leak protection
TunnelBear includes DNS leak protection, WebRTC leak prevention, and built-in encrypted DNS servers, which prevent any accidental exposure of IP addresses or browsing activity.

Although TunnelBear does not utilize RAM-only servers, their commitment to transparency through independent audits and their privacy-focused features make it a reliable choice for privacy-conscious users.

TunnelBear Plans & Prices

TunnelBear offers several straightforward pricing options designed for different levels of usage and needs, with each plan providing unlimited access to their VPN features:

Free plan: TunnelBear’s free plan provides users with 2 GB of data per month and grants access to all server locations. This allocation is suitable for testing the service before considering a subscription.

Unlimited plan: The Unlimited Plan provides full, unrestricted access to TunnelBear’s servers and features for a monthly cost of $9.99 or $4.99 per month billed annually (around $59.88 per year). At the time of writing, this plan is on sale and starts at $3.33 per month. This plan includes access to all features, including GhostBear, VigilantBear, and split-tunneling (on supported devices) without a data cap.

Teams plan: Aimed at businesses or groups, the Teams Plan offers all the Unlimited Plan features with the addition of centralized billing, a dedicated account manager, and priority support. This plan costs approximately $5.75 per user per month (billed annually). It’s customizable based on the number of users, making it scalable for small to medium-sized teams needing VPN protection across devices.

TunnelBear does not charge additional fees for any core features; however, customization options, such as add-ons for enterprise users or specific requirements for priority support, may incur higher costs. While TunnelBear does not offer a traditional money-back guarantee, refunds may be issued on a case-by-case basis. Their simple pricing model emphasizes transparency, without hidden fees for essential features.

TunnelBear Advantages & Disadvantages

Choosing the right VPN is about looking at the good and bad points to find what works best for you. TunnelBear, like all VPN providers, has things it's good at and not so good at. When you know these facts, you can make a smart choice based on what matters to you and how you plan to use it.

Advantages

• Intuitive interface design great for beginners: TunnelBear is known for its approachable and intuitive design, featuring animated bears that guide users through the VPN process. This feature simplifies VPN use, particularly for beginners, making it easy to understand and engage with secure browsing. Users who may feel intimidated by complex technology can feel more comfortable and confident navigating the platform's clear interface 
• Transparent security with regular audits: TunnelBear undergoes annual, independent security audits, which it shares publicly—a rare practice in the VPN industry. This commitment to transparency allows users to trust that the company is actively invested in maintaining security standards. For privacy-conscious individuals, this open approach provides peace of mind about the integrity of their security infrastructure 
• GhostBear Mode to bypass VPN restrictions: For users in regions with restrictive internet policies, TunnelBear’s GhostBear feature conceals VPN traffic, making it appear like regular internet traffic. This feature is particularly beneficial for bypassing VPN restrictions in countries with limited internet freedom or on restrictive networks, allowing users to browse with fewer restrictions on content access 
• No-logs policy protects user privacy: TunnelBear maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning that it does not store any user browsing data, IP addresses, or DNS queries. This policy protects user privacy by ensuring that no traceable information is stored, which is a valuable asset for users prioritizing anonymity online
• Free plan for limited usage: TunnelBear offers a free plan with a monthly data limit of 2GB. While limited, this plan allows users to test the service and experience its features before committing to a paid plan, making it ideal for light users or those new to VPNs who want a no-cost introduction to secure browsing
• AES-256 encryption for strong data security: TunnelBear employs AES-256 encryption, the industry standard for secure data transmission. This “Grizzly-grade” encryption protects data from interception, which is essential for users on public Wi-Fi or concerned about protecting sensitive information
• Cross-platform compatibility: TunnelBear supports a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. This multi-platform availability ensures that users can protect their data across various devices, providing flexibility and convenience for users with multiple devices 

Disadvantages

• Limited global server network: With servers in just over 45 countries, TunnelBear’s network is smaller than that of many competitors. This could result in slower speeds or limited location options for users looking to connect from more diverse geographic areas, potentially impacting the experience for users prioritizing access to more specific or remote regions 
• Free plan has a relatively low data cap: The free plan is capped at 2GB of data per month, which is significantly lower than the data offered by some other free VPNs. This limited data makes the free plan impractical for any substantial browsing, streaming, or work needs, serving only as a basic trial rather than a viable option for ongoing use 
• No money-back guarantee: Unlike many VPN providers, TunnelBear does not offer a traditional money-back guarantee. While refunds may be granted on a case-by-case basis, the lack of a clear refund policy could be a drawback for users who want more flexibility
• No additional features: The company doesn't currently offer additional features like a password manager or an antivirus software, which can be a con if you are looking to bundle your products under one company

The TunnelBear Customer Experience

TunnelBear VPN receives mixed, though generally positive, feedback from users across review platforms like Capterra, Trustpilot, and G2, with ratings of 4.5, 3.2, and 4.5 out of 5 stars, respectively, at these sources. Many users praise TunnelBear’s intuitive and enjoyable interface, with several noting that the animated bear theme adds a friendly, accessible touch to the VPN experience, making it especially user-friendly for VPN beginners. 

However, there are recurring complaints. Some users on Sitejabber express frustration with their smaller server network, which may limit connection options and speeds, especially for streaming. Let's take a deeper look into the user experience to better understand how their customers encounter their service.

Positive feedback

TunnelBear receives considerable praise for their ease of use. Many customers note that the VPN’s playful, animated bear theme and simple interface make it both approachable and enjoyable. Reviewers on platforms like Capterra highlight the VPN’s setup simplicity, which is especially beneficial for users who may be less experienced with VPNs.

Additionally, privacy protection is a common highlight, as users appreciate TunnelBear’s no-logs policy and secure AES-256 encryption, which instills confidence that their data is well-protected. Flexibility across devices and intuitive support from TunnelBear’s team adds to overall customer satisfaction, particularly as the company consistently addresses security concerns through independent audits. For many users, these qualities make TunnelBear a trusted choice for accessible, reliable online security.

Critical feedback

Critical feedback for TunnelBear VPN often centers around their limited server network, which can restrict accessibility and result in slower speeds on distant servers. Users mention that the small network is less versatile for activities like streaming or bypassing geo-restrictions, which some users expect from a VPN. The 2GB monthly cap on the free plan is another common point of dissatisfaction, as it limits extended use and pushes users to upgrade more quickly than anticipated.

Additionally, a few users have reported occasional issues with automatic reconnection and bugs in the mobile app, which require manual intervention to restore service. Despite TunnelBear’s strong privacy reputation, these recurring limitations can impact the overall experience for users seeking extensive server coverage or seamless, unrestricted streaming capabilities.

TunnelBear actively responds to customer reviews on various platforms, reflecting a commitment to addressing user concerns and improving the service experience. By engaging with both positive and critical feedback, they demonstrate a willingness to understand and resolve issues, which shows their dedication to transparency and customer satisfaction.

Customer Support: Getting Help When You Need It

TunnelBear VPN offers email-based customer support to assist users with inquiries or technical issues. While they do not provide 24/7 live chat or phone support, the email support team is known for providing timely and helpful responses, usually within a business day. Users can reach TunnelBear’s support team via their support page, where they can submit questions or browse a range of common troubleshooting topics.

For self-service resources, TunnelBear provides an extensive help center that includes FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and step-by-step instructions for using the VPN across devices. The help center covers setup, common connection issues, and explanations of features like GhostBear and VigilantBear, making it a valuable resource for users who prefer to troubleshoot independently. Although real-time support options are limited, these guides provide users with practical information for understanding and making the most of TunnelBear’s services.

Conclusion

TunnelBear VPN offers a unique blend of user-friendly design, strong privacy features, and approachable pricing, making them a good pick for individuals new to VPNs or those seeking a reliable, no-fuss security solution. Their key features, like annual security audits, AES-256 encryption, and a transparent no-logs policy, appeal to privacy-focused users, while their playful interface and free plan make them accessible for casual users or those new to VPN technology. TunnelBear’s features support a range of use cases, from secure browsing to bypassing restrictive networks, making them a versatile choice for privacy protection across devices.

Among their standout benefits, TunnelBear’s GhostBear mode helps users in restricted regions bypass VPN blocks, and their VigilantBear (kill switch) ensures data security during connection drops. Users appreciate the simplicity of TunnelBear’s free plan as a trial option, though the 2GB monthly limit can feel restrictive for those who wish to test it extensively. Reviews consistently highlight TunnelBear’s responsive customer support and straightforward interface as major strengths, especially for less tech-savvy users.

However, users have also noted some limitations. The limited server network can affect streaming capabilities and speed consistency, especially for users connecting over long distances or trying to access specific regions. Additionally, they lack a traditional money-back guarantee, which may make users hesitant to commit to a long-term plan. While these drawbacks may be minor for casual users, those with advanced needs may find them limiting.

If you’re interested in learning more about VPN options, check out our other VPN reviews, compare top VPN providers, or read our blog for additional background information to help you find the right VPN service for you.