TunnelBear Review
User-friendly VPN with free tier and annual security audits
Overall Rating
Based on our testing
Quick Answer
TunnelBear scores 8/10 in our testing. It's best for free tier with and annual independent security. Key strength: Free tier with 2GB monthly data. Main weakness: Smaller server network (47 countries).
Quick Summary
TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN known for its charming bear-themed interface and commitment to transparency through annual independent security audits. Based in Toronto, Canada, it offers a free tier with 2GB/month and unlimited paid plans with servers in 47 countries.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- 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
What could be better
- Smaller server network (47 countries)
- Inconsistent speeds on some servers
- No router support
- Free tier lost server selection feature
Typical Promotions
- •Black Friday - up to 67% off
- •Holiday deals on 3-year plans
Best time to buy: Black Friday for best 3-year deals
TunnelBear Pricing
- 2GB monthly data
- Random server selection
- Basic features only
- Unlimited data
- Unlimited devices
- All features
- Unlimited data
- Unlimited devices
- All features
Key Features
TunnelBear In-Depth Review
TunnelBear is TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN known for its charming bear-themed interface and commitment to transparency through annual independent security audits. Based in Toronto, Canada, it offers a free tier with 2GB/month and unlimited paid plans with servers in 47 countries. With an overall rating of 8/10 based on our testing, it delivers strong performance across key metrics in the vpns space.
Key Findings
- Free tier with 2GB monthly data: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of TunnelBear.
- Annual independent security audits (Cure53): This stands out in our testing as a key strength of TunnelBear.
- Unlimited device connections on paid plans: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of TunnelBear.
Performance & Speed
In our speed tests, TunnelBear performed adequately, though speed drops were noticeable on distant servers. We tested servers across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific regions to get a complete picture.
Features & Functionality
TunnelBear includes kill switch, split tunneling, no logs, streaming support. The features cover the essentials, though power users may find some gaps compared to premium alternatives. We particularly appreciated free tier with 2gb monthly data.
Pricing & Value
TunnelBear offers a free tier, making it accessible for users to try before committing. Paid plans start at $9.99/month. The free option is genuinely useful, not just a limited trial.
Ease of Use
TunnelBear's interface has a moderate learning curve. Most users will get comfortable within a few sessions. The user experience is clearly a priority for the development team.
Our Testing Methodology
We tested this VPN over a 30-day period, running daily speed tests from multiple server locations, verifying streaming compatibility with Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer, and testing the kill switch and leak protection using our proprietary testing tools. We also evaluated the apps on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android for usability and feature consistency.
- Users who prioritize free tier with 2gb monthly data
- Users looking for a solid, capable option
- Budget-conscious users who want to try before buying
- Users seeking value without sacrificing essential features
- Users who can't accept smaller server network (47 countries)
- Those who need features this product doesn't offer
The Bottom Line
TunnelBear is a solid performer that works well for most users. Its strength in free tier with 2gb monthly data makes it worth considering, though smaller server network (47 countries) may affect certain users.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some products are sponsored. Rankings reflect our honest assessment. Our editorial content is independent and unbiased. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through our links. Read our full disclosure
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TunnelBear FAQ
How much does TunnelBear cost?
TunnelBear starts at $0.00/mo for the Free plan. They also offer Monthly ($9.99/mo), 1 Year ($4.17/mo), 3 Years ($3.33/mo).
Is TunnelBear worth it in 2025?
TunnelBear scores 8/10 in our testing. Free tier with 2GB monthly data. However, smaller server network (47 countries).
What are the pros and cons of TunnelBear?
Pros: Free tier with 2GB monthly data; Annual independent security audits (Cure53); Unlimited device connections on paid plans. Cons: Smaller server network (47 countries); Inconsistent speeds on some servers; No router support.
Is TunnelBear safe to use?
TunnelBear is a legitimate vpns service. They have a verified no-logs policy. We recommend reviewing their privacy policy for full details.
Does TunnelBear have a free plan?
Yes, TunnelBear offers a free plan with 2GB monthly data, Random server selection. Paid plans start at $9.99/mo.
Does TunnelBear work with Netflix?
Yes, TunnelBear works with Netflix and other streaming services in our testing. Streaming performance may vary by server location.