ProtonVPN vs TunnelBear
ProtonVPN and TunnelBear consistently rank among the top VPNs, but they take different approaches to security, speed, and features. After testing both extensively, I've found they each excel in distinct areas. ProtonVPN edges ahead with a 8.8/10 rating, but that doesn't mean it's the right choice for everyone.
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Quick Answer
ProtonVPN beats TunnelBear for most users. It scores 8.8/10 vs 8/10 and based in privacy-friendly switzerland. Choose TunnelBear if you need free tier with 2gb monthly data.
ProtonVPN
WinnerSwiss-based VPN with 15,000+ servers and free tier
Starting from
$2.49/mo
TunnelBear
User-friendly VPN with free tier and annual security audits
Starting from
$3.33/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| Starting Price | $2.49/mo | $3.33/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Performance | ||
| Servers | 15,000+ | 5,000+ |
| Countries | 120+ | 47 |
| Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited |
| Security | ||
| Kill Switch | ||
| No Logs Policy | ||
| Double VPN | ||
| RAM-Only Servers | ||
| Features | ||
| Split Tunneling | ||
| Streaming Support | ||
| Torrenting | ||
| Dedicated IP | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
ProtonVPN
- Based in privacy-friendly Switzerland
- 15,000+ servers in 120+ countries
- Free tier with no data limits
- Open-source apps
- Secure Core multi-hop servers
- VPN Accelerator for faster speeds
- Stealth protocol bypasses VPN blocks
- Free tier limited to 5 countries
- Free tier randomly assigns servers
- Prorated refunds only
TunnelBear
- Free tier with 2GB monthly data
- Annual independent security audits (Cure53)
- Unlimited device connections on paid plans
- Simple, beginner-friendly interface
- GhostBear obfuscation feature
- 175,000+ 5-star reviews
- Based in privacy-friendly Canada
- Smaller server network (47 countries)
- Inconsistent speeds on some servers
- No router support
- Free tier lost server selection feature
Key Difference
The key difference: ProtonVPN offers torrenting while TunnelBear provides ghostbear. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
ProtonVPN
Choose ProtonVPN if you prioritize based in privacy-friendly switzerland, want to start with a free tier, or value 15,000+ servers in 120+ countries.
TunnelBear
Choose TunnelBear if you prioritize free tier with 2gb monthly data, want to start with a free tier, need unlimited usage, or value annual independent security audits (cure53).
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, ProtonVPN is our winner with a rating of 8.8/10 compared to TunnelBear's 8/10. ProtonVPN stands out for its based in privacy-friendly switzerland and 15,000+ servers in 120+ countries. While TunnelBear is more affordable, ProtonVPN's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, TunnelBear remains an excellent choice if free tier with 2gb monthly data is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Switching VPNs is straightforward - just cancel your subscription and sign up for the new service. Both ProtonVPN and TunnelBear offer money-back guarantees, so you can try before fully committing. No data migration is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ProtonVPN better than TunnelBear?
ProtonVPN scores higher in our testing (8.8/10 vs 8/10). ProtonVPN excels at based in privacy-friendly switzerland, while TunnelBear is better for free tier with 2gb monthly data.
Which is cheaper, ProtonVPN or TunnelBear?
TunnelBear is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. TunnelBear offers NaN% savings.
ProtonVPN vs TunnelBear: which should I choose?
Choose ProtonVPN if you prioritize based in privacy-friendly switzerland. Choose TunnelBear if you need free tier with 2gb monthly data. Both are solid vpns options.
What's the main difference between ProtonVPN and TunnelBear?
The main difference is ProtonVPN offers swiss-based vpn with 15,000+ servers and free tier, while TunnelBear focuses on user-friendly vpn with free tier and annual security audits.