TunnelBear vs Surfshark
TunnelBear and Surfshark 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.
Some products are sponsored. Rankings reflect our honest assessment. See our affiliate disclosure
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.
TunnelBear
User-friendly VPN with free tier and annual security audits
Starting from
$3.33/mo
Surfshark
WinnerBest budget VPN with unlimited devices and 4,500+ servers
Starting from
$1.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.0/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Starting Price | $3.33/mo | $1.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Performance | ||
| Servers | 5,000+ | 4,500+ |
| Countries | 47 | 100 |
| 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
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
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)
Key Difference
The key difference: TunnelBear offers ghostbear while Surfshark provides torrenting. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
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).
Surfshark
Choose Surfshark if you prioritize unlimited simultaneous connections, need unlimited usage, or value very affordable at $1.99/mo (2-year plan).
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 TunnelBear and Surfshark offer money-back guarantees, so you can try before fully committing. No data migration is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TunnelBear better than Surfshark?
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, TunnelBear or Surfshark?
TunnelBear is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $15.45/mo. TunnelBear offers 100% savings.
TunnelBear vs Surfshark: which should I choose?
Choose TunnelBear if you prioritize free tier with 2gb monthly data. Choose Surfshark if you need unlimited simultaneous connections. Both are solid vpns options.
What's the main difference between TunnelBear and Surfshark?
The main difference is TunnelBear offers user-friendly vpn with free tier and annual security audits, while Surfshark focuses on best budget vpn with unlimited devices and 4,500+ servers.