TunnelBear VPN is a popular choice for those looking for a simple and charming VPN service. Owned by McAfee and based in Canada, TunnelBear stands out with its bear-themed interface and playful design. However, when it comes to features and performance, there are some aspects to consider.
The interface of TunnelBear is user-friendly and visually appealing. It offers a world map with server locations represented by icons like bears and tunnels. The service allows unlimited device connections, which is a plus for users with multiple devices. However, despite boasting over 8,000 servers, the server network is not as diverse as some competitors, with limited server options in many country locations.
In terms of features, TunnelBear offers a kill switch feature called “VigilantBear” for added security. The “GhostBear” feature helps disguise VPN traffic as HTTPS traffic, useful for bypassing censorship. Additionally, the “SplitBear” feature allows users to choose which apps or websites use the VPN connection. While these features are beneficial, TunnelBear lacks advanced options like multi-hop and dedicated servers for specific activities like streaming or torrenting.
When it comes to pricing, TunnelBear offers monthly, 1-year, and 3-year plans. While the monthly plan may seem a bit expensive for the features provided, the longer-term plans offer better value. There is also a free plan available with a 2GB data limit per month for users to test the service before committing to a paid plan.
In terms of performance, TunnelBear’s speeds were found to be inconsistent, with some servers struggling to unblock streaming platforms like Netflix. The service’s security features include strong encryption and support for protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN. TunnelBear has a strict no-logs policy and undergoes regular third-party audits to ensure user privacy.
Overall, TunnelBear is a good option for VPN beginners or casual users who prioritize simplicity and ease of use. However, for users looking for more advanced features, better streaming performance, or specific server options for activities like torrenting, there may be other VPN services that better suit their needs. It is essential to consider your specific requirements and priorities when choosing a VPN service to ensure it meets your expectations.
