Description
TunnelBear is a privacy-focused VPN service designed to make online security simple and accessible. With just a flip of a switch, users can encrypt their internet connection and browse with confidence on any network.
Key Features
- AES 256-bit Encryption — Industry-standard strong encryption applied by default with no weaker options available.
- VigilantBear — Automatic kill switch that blocks all unsecured traffic if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
- SplitBear — Split tunneling that lets you choose which apps and websites route through the VPN and which use your regular connection.
- GhostBear — Obfuscation technology that makes VPN traffic harder to detect, helping bypass censorship and VPN blocking.
- No-Logging Policy — TunnelBear does not monitor, log, or sell any browsing activity, verified through regular independent security audits.
- 47+ Countries, 8000+ Servers — A global network of physically located servers for reliable worldwide access.
- Unlimited Devices — No limit on the number of devices connected under one account.
- Protocol Support — Choose between WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
TunnelBear is trusted by millions for protecting privacy on public WiFi, accessing global content, bypassing local censorship, and preventing IP-based tracking. Apps are available for Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, and as browser extensions. TunnelBear is the only VPN in the industry to publish regular, independent security audits of its apps.
Highlights
Pros
- Offers unlimited simultaneous device connections on both free and paid plans
- Publishes regular, independent security audits by Cure53 since 2017 — the only VPN in the industry to do so annually
- Strict no-logs policy with a transparent, jargon-free privacy policy and regular transparency reports
- Free plan grants access to all servers in 47 countries, far more generous than most free VPNs
- Intuitive, beginner-friendly interface with one-click connect and a fun, approachable design
- GhostBear obfuscation technology masks VPN traffic as regular web traffic to bypass censorship in restrictive networks
Cons
- Small server network with only 47 countries and relies on third-party cloud servers rather than owned bare-metal infrastructure
- Fails to unblock most major streaming platforms including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
- No router support, making it impossible to protect non-app devices like gaming consoles and smart TVs
- Refund policy is case-by-case only with no standard money-back guarantee offered
- VigilantBear kill switch is only available on desktop apps and not on mobile devices
- No live chat support — only ticket-based email with response times ranging from 4 to 48 hours