Surfshark vs TunnelBear
Surfshark 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. Surfshark edges ahead with a 9/10 rating, but that doesn't mean it's the right choice for everyone.
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Quick Answer
Surfshark beats TunnelBear for most users. It scores 9/10 vs 8/10 and unlimited simultaneous connections. Choose TunnelBear if you need free tier with 2gb monthly data.
Surfshark
WinnerBest budget VPN with unlimited devices and 4,500+ servers
Starting from
$1.99/mo
TunnelBear
User-friendly VPN with free tier and annual security audits
Starting from
$3.33/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
| Starting Price | $1.99/mo | $3.33/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Performance | ||
| Servers | 4,500+ | 5,000+ |
| Countries | 100 | 47 |
| Simultaneous Connections | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Security | ||
| Kill Switch | ||
| No Logs Policy | ||
| Double VPN | ||
| RAM-Only Servers | ||
| Features | ||
| Split Tunneling | ||
| Streaming Support | ||
| Torrenting | ||
| Dedicated IP | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Surfshark
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan)
- 4,500+ RAM-only 10Gbps servers
- CleanWeb ad and malware blocker
- GPS spoofing on Android
- NoBorders mode for censored regions
- No-logs policy audited
- Speeds can be inconsistent
- Customer support response times vary
- Renewal pricing higher ($6.58/mo)
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: Surfshark offers torrenting while TunnelBear provides ghostbear. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Surfshark
Choose Surfshark if you prioritize unlimited simultaneous connections, need unlimited usage, or value very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan).
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, Surfshark is our winner with a rating of 9/10 compared to TunnelBear's 8/10. Surfshark stands out for its unlimited simultaneous connections and very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan). While TunnelBear is more affordable, Surfshark'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 Surfshark and TunnelBear offer money-back guarantees, so you can try before fully committing. No data migration is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark better than TunnelBear?
Surfshark scores higher in our testing (9/10 vs 8/10). Surfshark excels at unlimited simultaneous connections, while TunnelBear is better for free tier with 2gb monthly data.
Which is cheaper, Surfshark or TunnelBear?
TunnelBear is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $15.45/mo. TunnelBear offers 100% savings.
Surfshark vs TunnelBear: which should I choose?
Choose Surfshark if you prioritize unlimited simultaneous connections. Choose TunnelBear if you need free tier with 2gb monthly data. Both are solid vpns options.
What's the main difference between Surfshark and TunnelBear?
The main difference is Surfshark offers best budget vpn with unlimited devices and 4,500+ servers, while TunnelBear focuses on user-friendly vpn with free tier and annual security audits.