139 Highlights 69 Differences 10 Reactions 0 Likes

Surfshark vs TunnelBear: 139 Highlights & 69 Differences — So, Which VPN Actually Works Better

Surfshark offers more advanced encryption and frequent audits. TunnelBear keeps things simple and reliable for privacy. We compared Surfshark and TunnelBear for people who care about target user, account sharing policy, deployment type & regulatory compliance statement and time-saving tools. Here’s what to know before committing.

83 Points
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
66 Points
TunnelBear
TunnelBear
TunnelBear
TunnelBear
vs

Highlights 175

No extras. Just what matters.
83 Points
vs
66 Points

Why is Surfshark better than TunnelBear ?

Scroll down for more facts

Surfshark vs TunnelBear: A Deep Dive Into Two Leading VPN Providers

When it comes to choosing a VPN that balances privacy, performance, and usability, Surfshark and TunnelBear emerge as prominent contenders. Both services target users looking for privacy, security, and streaming capabilities with cloud-based deployment models and robust no-logs policies. However, they diverge significantly in terms of their feature set, platform support, and performance optimizations. 

While Surfshark gears towards a broader audience, including families and gamers, offering advanced capabilities like mesh networking, per-app rules, and gaming-optimized servers, TunnelBear focuses on simplicity and straightforward protection primarily for individual users. Both VPNs support essential features such as kill switches, stealth mode, and third-party security audits, but Surfshark clearly leads with its extensive device compatibility and enhanced networking features.

Surfshark: A Powerhouse of Features and Speed

Surfshark stakes its claim as a versatile VPN designed for contemporary digital life. It stands out with its comprehensive targeting of both individuals and families, making it well-suited for multi-user households. The service complies not only with GDPR and CCPA but also with the UK GDPR, offering extra peace of mind for international users (regulatory compliance). 

Security-wise, Surfshark uses cutting-edge key exchange methods like ECDHE and RSA, with periodic third-party audits that bolster its strong no-log assurances, explicitly denying both connection and metadata logs (connection logs, metadata logs).

A standout feature is Surfshark's network infrastructure, leveraging gaming-optimized servers and smart routing algorithms that enable a peak speed of up to 550 Mbps. This makes it ideal not just for routine browsing but also for high-bandwidth applications like cloud gaming and 4K streaming (4K streaming). 

With support for a wide array of operating systems, including routers, smart TVs, and IoT devices, it offers unmatched device versatility. Advanced features such as automation scripts, mesh networking, and API access empower tech-savvy users seeking customization and control.

Additionally, Surfshark provides robust multi-user profiles, sub-accounts, and session management to streamline shared usage and enhance security. Its support is equally comprehensive, featuring live chat and a community forum (support channels), helpful for both novices and advanced users alike. For those worried about payment flexibility, Surfshark accepts an impressive range of options, including cryptocurrency and gift cards, plus a 7-day trial to test the waters.

TunnelBear: Simple, Secure, and User-Friendly

TunnelBear remains a favorite for users who prioritize an uncomplicated VPN experience focused on essential privacy and security. Designed exclusively for individual users, it supports GDPR and CCPA but lacks the additional UK GDPR compliance seen in Surfshark (regulatory compliance). Despite its modest approach, TunnelBear maintains solid safety features such as a kill switch and stealth mode backed by annual third-party audits (audit frequency).

The VPN operates on a similar cloud-based, hybrid server model, ensuring unlimited bandwidth with Tier III data centers; however, it does not offer gaming-optimized servers and lacks any performance optimizations like smart routing or analytics. Peak speed performance details are not disclosed, suggesting it may not match Surfshark's throughput for demanding uses (peak speed performance).

Platform support is narrower, covering popular operating systems such as Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, but missing compatibility for routers, smart TVs, or Internet of Things devices (OS version compatibility). Advanced functionalities like automation scripts, custom DNS, and mesh networking are absent, making TunnelBear simpler and potentially more approachable for VPN beginners.

For streaming, TunnelBear supports Netflix and 4K streaming but has more limited streaming platform compatibility and moderate streaming reliability compared to Surfshark's expansive offer, including Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video (streaming platform support). 

It does permit torrenting and protects user privacy with RAM-only servers and deletion policies, but connection and metadata logging policies are less explicitly detailed (connection logs, metadata logs).

Though TunnelBear does not have multi-user profiles, sub-accounts, or detailed session management, it offers a free trial, which can appeal to users wanting to sample the service without commitment. Support is limited to email only and lacks community forums or API documentation, reflecting its simpler service scope (support channels).

Quick Take

Surfshark shines with advanced security features, broad device compatibility, including smart TVs and IoT, and blazing speeds optimized for gaming and streaming. Meanwhile, TunnelBear provides a straightforward, user-friendly VPN experience that covers essential privacy needs with a clean reputation and a free trial for individual users.

Bottom Line

If you want a feature-packed VPN that caters to families, gamers, and power users looking for excellent performance and wide platform support, Surfshark is the smarter choice. On the other hand, if simplicity and ease of use with basic privacy features are your priorities, and you're happy with fewer devices and streaming options, TunnelBear remains a good fit.

Verdict

  • Winner: Surfshark - Excels with advanced features, superior speeds, and versatile device compatibility.
  • Runner-up: TunnelBear - Ideal for individual users seeking straightforward, reliable privacy without the need for extras.

Comparisons 36

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

Related comparisons 36

Because one duel is never enough.

Comparisons & Facts 175

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

Don’t waste time on demos — this side-by-side comparison covers all you need to know about Surfshark vs TunnelBear in the world of vpn.

General Information 12

Regulatory Compliance Statement

What regulations does it comply with?

82 Surfshark 1 Votes GDPR, CCPA, UK GDPR

79 TunnelBear 0 Votes GDPR, CCPA

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Regulatory Compliance Statement

In Regulatory Compliance, Surfshark complies with GDPR, CCPA, and UK GDPR, while TunnelBear complies only with GDPR and CCPA. Surfshark offers wider regulatory adherence, providing extra assurance for UK users.

Stated compliance with data protection regulations.

I appreciate Surfshark's extra UK GDPR compliance which adds extra peace of mind over TunnelBear's GDPR and CCPA only.

See more

Target User

Who is this VPN designed for?

62 Surfshark 0 Votes Individual, Family

54 TunnelBear 0 Votes Individual

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Target User

Regarding Target User, Surfshark serves both Individual and Family users, offering broader support compared to TunnelBear, which targets only Individual users. For those needing VPN services for families, Surfshark is more suitable.

Identifies the primary audience.

Account Sharing Policy

Is account sharing allowed?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Allowed

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Account Sharing Policy

Account Sharing Policy is Allowed on both Surfshark and TunnelBear. Users can share accounts freely on both platforms, making either suitable for shared access scenarios.

Defines rules around sharing accounts.

Deployment Type

What is the deployment type?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes Cloud-Based

84 TunnelBear 0 Votes Cloud-Based

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Deployment Type

Both Surfshark and TunnelBear are Cloud-Based in Deployment Type. Both offer similar ease of access and update capabilities inherent to cloud services.

How the VPN infrastructure is deployed and managed.

VPN Service Type

What type of VPN service is offered?

27 Surfshark 0 Votes Consumer VPN

24 TunnelBear 0 Votes Consumer VPN

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service type is consumer-focused, designed primarily for individual and household use.

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Designed for individual users seeking privacy and security rather than enterprise network management.

Indicates the primary service classification.

Intended Use

What is this VPN mainly used for?

57 Surfshark 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, Gaming

54 TunnelBear 0 Votes Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Intended Use

For Intended Use, Surfshark covers Privacy, Security, Streaming, P2P, and Gaming, whereas TunnelBear lacks Gaming support. Therefore, Surfshark is preferable for gamers.

Describes the main use cases supported.

Release Year

When was this VPN first released?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 2018

64 TunnelBear 0 Votes 2011

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN service was released in 2018, indicating experience and a matured product.

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Over a decade of experience in VPN services, continuously updated for security and speed.

Year the VPN service was first released.

Service Model

What service model does the VPN use?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Subscription-Based

59 TunnelBear 0 Votes Subscription-Based,Freemium

Surfshark
Surfshark

The service operates on a subscription-based model, which means users pay periodically to maintain access and updates.

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Offers flexible plans with both free limited options and paid tiers for full access.

Business and access model used to provide the VPN service.

Supported Devices Count

How many devices are supported?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Unlimited Devices

Surfshark
Surfshark

The VPN supports unlimited devices per account, accommodating users with many gadgets.

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Lets you protect all your devices without worrying about device limits.

Maximum number of devices supported per account.

Platform Category

Which platform categories are supported?

71 Surfshark 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile, Browser, Router

72 TunnelBear 0 Votes Desktop, Mobile

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Covers all major personal devices, ensuring protection whether at home or on the go.

Indicates supported platform categories.

Simultaneous Connections

How many simultaneous connections are allowed?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Unlimited

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Unlimited

Number of devices that can connect at the same time.

Service Availability

Where is the service available?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Global

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Global

Geographic scope where the VPN service is available.

Security & Encryption 24

Kill Switch

Is a kill switch available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Kill Switch

Both services feature a Kill Switch, ensuring your internet connection is severed if the VPN disconnects, maintaining security for both Surfshark and TunnelBear users.

Blocks traffic if VPN connection drops.

Key Exchange Method

How are encryption keys exchanged?

77 Surfshark 0 Votes ECDHE, RSA

77 TunnelBear 0 Votes Diffie-Hellman, ECDHE

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Key Exchange Method

Surfshark uses ECDHE and RSA for Key Exchange, while TunnelBear uses Diffie-Hellman and ECDHE. The presence of RSA in Surfshark provides an additional cryptographic option, potentially enhancing security flexibility.

Describes how encryption keys are securely exchanged.

Stealth Mode

Is stealth mode available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Stealth Mode

Stealth Mode is supported by both Surfshark and TunnelBear, assisting users in bypassing VPN blocks and enhancing privacy.

Hides VPN usage from detection systems.

Audit Frequency

How often are audits done?

77 Surfshark 0 Votes Periodic

64 TunnelBear 0 Votes Annual

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Audit Frequency

Audit Frequency differs as Surfshark undergoes Periodic audits, while TunnelBear has Annual audits. Surfshark's more frequent assessments might imply tighter ongoing security compliance.

How often audits are performed.

Encryption Strength

What encryption strength is used?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes AES-256

84 TunnelBear 0 Votes AES-256

Surfshark
Surfshark

Encryption strength uses AES-256, a robust encryption cipher standard for secure VPN connections.

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Uses 256-bit encryption, one of the strongest available, ensuring highly secure connections.

Level and type of encryption used to secure data.

VPN Protocols Supported

Which VPN protocols are supported?

79 Surfshark 0 Votes OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2

76 TunnelBear 0 Votes WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2

Surfshark
Surfshark

Supported VPN protocols include OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, covering a range of compatibility, security, and performance options.

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Supports modern and secure protocols suitable for both speed and compatibility.

Lists all supported VPN protocols.

Default Protocol

What protocol is used by default?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes WireGuard

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes WireGuard

Surfshark
Surfshark

The default VPN protocol is WireGuard, favored for its speed and modern encryption.

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

WireGuard is chosen by default for faster connection and lower latency.

Protocol used by default.

Firewall Integration

Does it integrate with a firewall?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
Surfshark

Firewall integration enables the VPN to work seamlessly with existing firewall setups for enhanced protection.

Integrates firewall rules for traffic control.

Obfuscation Technology

Is traffic obfuscation supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
Surfshark

Obfuscation technology conceals VPN traffic to evade censorship and VPN blocks.

Masks VPN traffic to bypass censorship.

Multi-Hop VPN

Is multi-hop VPN supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
Surfshark

Multi-hop VPN chains user traffic through multiple servers for enhanced privacy and anonymity.

Routes traffic through multiple servers.

Onion over VPN

Is Onion over VPN supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

TunnelBear supports Onion over VPN allowing Tor network usage over VPN.

Allows Tor network over VPN.

Third-Party Audit Availability

Are third-party audits available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Third-Party Audit Availability

Third-Party Audit Availability is Yes on both Surfshark and TunnelBear, ensuring both services undergo external audits for security assurance.

Availability of external audit reports.

Privacy & Logging Policy 18

RAM-Only Servers

Are RAM-only servers used?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
RAM-Only Servers

RAM-Only Servers are used by both Surfshark and TunnelBear, enhancing data security by not storing information on physical drives.

Indicates use of volatile memory servers.

Connection Logs

Are connection logs stored?

Who knows? 1 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Connection Logs

Connection Logs are explicitly 'No' for Surfshark but 'n/a' for TunnelBear, indicating Surfshark clearly avoids connection logs, while TunnelBear's status is unavailable, so Surfshark is more transparent.

Indicates logging of connection metadata.

TunnelBear's connection logs are n/a while Surfshark clearly states no connection logs which gives me more confidence in Surfshark.

See more

Logging Policy Type

What is the logging policy type?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes No-Logs

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes No-Logs

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Logging Policy Type

Both Surfshark and TunnelBear operate a No-Logs Logging Policy Type, ensuring they do not retain user activity logs, which is ideal for privacy-conscious customers.

Describes the overall logging stance.

Metadata Logs

Are metadata logs collected?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Metadata Logs

Metadata Logs are No for Surfshark but n/a for TunnelBear. Surfshark provides explicit no metadata logging claims, offering clearer privacy assurances.

Indicates logging of metadata beyond traffic.

Transparency Report

Are transparency reports published?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Provides public insight into requests and compliance, enhancing trust.

Indicates publication of transparency reports.

Privacy Policy Clarity

How clear is the privacy policy?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Clear

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Clear

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Policies are easy to read and understand for non-technical users.

Describes how understandable the policy is.

Privacy Certification

Does it have privacy certifications?

47 Surfshark 0 Votes ISO 27001, TRUSTe

0 TunnelBear 0 Votes None

Surfshark
Surfshark

Privacy certifications include ISO 27001 and TRUSTe, indicating adherence to internationally recognized privacy and security standards.

Privacy or security certifications held by the provider.

Activity Logs

Are activity logs stored?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates whether user activity is logged.

IP Address Logging

Are IP addresses logged?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates whether IP addresses are logged.

Timestamp Logging

Are timestamps logged?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates logging of session timestamps.

Bandwidth Usage Logging

Is bandwidth usage logged?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates logging of bandwidth usage.

Jurisdiction Country

Which country is the jurisdiction?

82 Surfshark 0 Votes Netherlands

79 TunnelBear 0 Votes Canada

Country where the VPN company is legally registered.

Network & Server Infrastructure 20

Gaming Optimized Servers

Are gaming servers available?

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Gaming Optimized Servers

Surfshark offers Gaming Optimized Servers, while TunnelBear does not. Gamers will find Surfshark more suitable due to this specialized server support.

Servers optimized for low-latency gaming.

Gaming optimized servers on Surfshark really make it better for performance enthusiasts unlike TunnelBear which doesn't have this.

See more

Throttling Policy

Is bandwidth throttled?

17 Surfshark 0 Votes No Throttling

14 TunnelBear 0 Votes No Throttling

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Throttling Policy

Both Surfshark and TunnelBear have No Throttling policies, meaning neither service intentionally slows your internet speed, supporting high-quality connections.

Describes bandwidth throttling rules.

Total City Coverage

How many cities are covered?

87 Surfshark 0 Votes 200+

64 TunnelBear 0 Votes 50–100

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total city coverage exceeds 200 cities, ensuring extensive geographic reach and more options for optimal performance.

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Offers city-level server choices, helping users connect to optimal locations.

Number of cities with VPN servers.

Total Server Count

How many servers are available?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 3000+

84 TunnelBear 0 Votes 1000–3000

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total server count exceeds 3000, indicating a large network with many options for users worldwide.

Approximate total number of servers available.

Total Country Coverage

How many countries are covered?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes 90+

44 TunnelBear 0 Votes 40–60

Surfshark
Surfshark

Total country coverage extends beyond 90 countries, providing worldwide server options and global access.

Number of countries with server presence.

Server Ownership

Who owns the servers?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Hybrid

64 TunnelBear 0 Votes Hybrid

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Server Ownership

Server Ownership is Hybrid for both Surfshark and TunnelBear, indicating a mix of owned and third-party servers that balance control and scalability.

Describes who controls the servers.

IP Rotation Frequency

How often do IPs rotate?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Session-Based

64 TunnelBear 0 Votes Session-Based

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

IP addresses change each session, improving anonymity.

How often IP addresses rotate.

Server Location Type

Are server locations physical or virtual?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Mixed

44 TunnelBear 0 Votes Physical

Indicates how server locations are implemented.

Data Center Tier

What data center tier is used?

47 Surfshark 0 Votes Tier III

44 TunnelBear 0 Votes TierIII

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Data Center Tier

Data Center Tier is Tier III for both Surfshark and TunnelBear, indicating high reliability and availability standards from their hosting facilities.

Indicates data center reliability level.

Load Balancing

Is load balancing supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Distributes traffic evenly across servers.

Smart Location Selection

Is smart location selection available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Automatically selects optimal servers.

Specialized Servers

Are specialized servers offered?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates presence of purpose-built servers.

Performance & Speed 14

Peak Speed Performance

What is the peak speed performance?

550 Mbps 1 Votes
Surfshark

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Peak Speed Performance

Peak Speed Performance for Surfshark is 550 Mbps, while TunnelBear's value is not available. Surfshark supports higher speeds, ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks.

Maximum achievable speed under ideal conditions.

Surfshark's peak speed of 550 Mbps really makes it a top choice for fast streaming and gaming compared to TunnelBear's undisclosed speeds.

See more

Smart Routing

Is smart routing used?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Smart Routing

Smart Routing exists on Surfshark but is unavailable on TunnelBear. Surfshark can navigate the best network paths, enhancing speed and reliability.

Routes traffic through optimal paths.

Regional Speed Optimization

Is regional speed optimization supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Regional Speed Optimization

Regional Speed Optimization is available on Surfshark but not available on TunnelBear. This makes Surfshark more suitable for users seeking optimized regional performance.

Optimizes speeds by geographic region.

Average Download Speed

What is the average download speed?

480 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
Surfshark

Average download speed of 480 Mbps provides fast data transfer, supporting HD streaming and bulk downloads.

Typical downstream speed when connected to the VPN.

Average Upload Speed

What is the average upload speed?

420 Mbps 0 Votes
Surfshark

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
Surfshark

The average upload speed is 420 Mbps, suitable for high-quality video calls and fast file uploads.

Typical upstream speed when using the VPN.

Latency Impact

How much latency does the VPN add?

15 ms 0 Votes
Surfshark

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Latency Impact

Latency Impact is 15 ms on Surfshark but not available on TunnelBear. Surfshark quantifies low latency impact, which benefits activities needing minimal delay.

Additional latency introduced by the VPN.

Speed Consistency

How consistent are the speeds?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes High

Surfshark
Surfshark

Speed consistency is rated high, indicating stable and reliable connection speeds over time.

Stability of speeds over time.

Speed Throttling

Is speed throttling applied?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates whether speeds are artificially limited.

Protocol Speed Optimization

Are protocols optimized for speed?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Optimizes protocol choice for speed.

Auto Server Selection Speed

Does it auto-select the fastest server?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Automatically selects fastest servers.

Speed Test Tool

Is there a built-in speed test?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Built-in tool for measuring VPN speed.

Performance Analytics

Are performance analytics available?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Performance Analytics

Performance Analytics are present in Surfshark but not available for TunnelBear, giving Surfshark users detailed performance insights for better optimization.

Provides performance monitoring insights.

Platform & Device Support 13

OS Version Compatibility

Which OS versions are supported?

78 Surfshark 1 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Router

83 TunnelBear 0 Votes Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
OS Version Compatibility

OS Version Compatibility is broader for Surfshark supporting Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Router, compared to TunnelBear which supports all but Router. Surfshark suits users needing router support.

Operating systems and platforms supported.

I like that Surfshark supports routers and smart TVs while TunnelBear sticks to just the basics like Windows and macOS.

See more

Browser Extension

Are browser extensions available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Browser Extension

Both Surfshark and TunnelBear offer Browser Extensions, providing easy VPN access within popular web browsers.

Indicates availability of browser extensions.

CLI Support

Is CLI support available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
CLI Support

CLI Support is available on Surfshark but not on TunnelBear. Developers or advanced users will find Surfshark more suitable for command-line control.

Indicates command-line interface availability.

IoT Device Compatibility

Are IoT devices compatible?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
IoT Device Compatibility

IoT Device Compatibility is present in Surfshark but unavailable in TunnelBear, indicating Surfshark better accommodates smart home ecosystems.

Indicates compatibility with IoT devices.

Browser Types Supported

Which browsers are supported?

85 Surfshark 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera

86 TunnelBear 0 Votes Chrome, Firefox, Edge

Surfshark
Surfshark

Browser types supported include Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera, enabling VPN use directly through popular browsers.

Lists supported browser types.

App Interface Consistency

Is the app interface consistent?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Consistent

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Consistent

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Similar experience across all apps, making it easy to switch devices.

Consistency of UI across platforms.

Smart TV

Are smart TVs supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Surfshark
vs
TunnelBear
Smart TV

Smart TV support is available with Surfshark but not available with TunnelBear, making Surfshark better for streaming on TVs.

Indicates support for smart TV platforms.

Gaming Console

Are gaming consoles supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates compatibility with gaming consoles.

Manual Configuration

Is manual configuration supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows manual VPN setup.

Cross-Platform Sync

Is cross-platform sync available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Syncs settings across devices.

Device Management Dashboard

Is there a device management dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Centralized device management interface.

ARM Architecture

Are ARM devices supported?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates support for ARM-based devices.

Features & Functionality 24

API Access

Is API access available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
Surfshark

API access is available, facilitating integration with other software or automated management of the VPN service.

Provides programmatic API access.

Mesh Networking

Is mesh networking supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Connects devices in a private mesh network.

Automation Scripts

Are automation scripts supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows use of automation scripts.

Per-App Rules

Can rules be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Applies VPN rules per application.

URL-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set by URL?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Specify websites to bypass VPN, giving granular control.

Allows split tunneling by website or domain.

LAN Access

Is LAN access allowed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
Surfshark

LAN access when connected allows users to interact with devices on the local network behind the VPN.

Allows access to local network devices.

Custom Routing Rules

Can routing rules be customized?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
Surfshark

Custom routing rules allow users to define specific paths for traffic, enhancing control and performance optimization.

Allows advanced routing customization.

Automation Support

Is automation supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Surfshark
Surfshark

Automation support allows users to integrate VPN usage with other automated workflows and scripts.

Supports automation via integrations or scripts.

Split Tunneling

Is split tunneling supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows selective routing of traffic outside the VPN.

App-Based Split Tunneling

Can split tunneling be set per app?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows split tunneling by application.

Auto-Connect Rules

Are auto-connect rules supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Automatically connects under defined conditions.

Trusted Wi-Fi Detection

Can trusted Wi-Fi networks be detected?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Detects trusted networks to control VPN behavior.

Streaming, Gaming & P2P Support 9

Streaming Platform Support

Which streaming platforms are supported?

84 Surfshark 0 Votes Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Netflix

Surfshark
Surfshark

Streaming platforms supported include Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video, ensuring broad access to popular services securely through the VPN.

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Optimized for Netflix access; performance may vary for other platforms.

Streaming platforms that the VPN can reliably unblock and support.

Cloud Gaming

Does it support cloud gaming?

Who knows? 1 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Indicates compatibility with cloud gaming services.

Cloud gaming support on Surfshark stands out for gamers needing smooth connections but TunnelBear doesn't offer this.

See more

4K Streaming

Is 4K streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates support for 4K streaming quality.

Streaming Reliability

How reliable is streaming access?

97 Surfshark 1 Votes High

54 TunnelBear 0 Votes Moderate

Consistency of streaming access over time.

High streaming reliability from Surfshark means fewer interruptions compared to TunnelBear's moderate stream quality.

See more

HD Streaming

Is HD streaming supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates support for HD streaming quality.

Gaming Latency Optimization

Is gaming latency optimized?

Who knows? 0 Votes Surfshark (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Optimizes routing for low gaming latency.

P2P File Sharing

Is P2P file sharing allowed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates allowance of P2P file sharing.

Torrenting Policy

Is torrenting allowed?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Allowed

Defines torrenting rules.

Port Selection for P2P

Can ports be selected for P2P?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows port selection for P2P traffic.

Account, Access & Management 10

Multi-User Profiles

Can multiple user profiles be created?

Yes 1 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows multiple user profiles under one account.

Multi-user profiles are a neat feature of Surfshark they really help with managing devices in a household unlike TunnelBear which lacks this.

See more

Sub-Account

Are sub-accounts supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows creation of sub-accounts with limited access.

Access Control Levels

Are access control levels available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Supports different permission levels.

Session Management

Can active sessions be managed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows viewing and managing active sessions.

User Account Dashboard

Is there a user account dashboard?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Provides a central interface for managing the account.

Team or Family Plans

Are team or family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates availability of shared plans.

Device Revocation

Can devices be revoked remotely?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows removal of connected devices remotely.

Login History Visibility

Is login history visible?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Shows login and access history.

Password Policy

How strong is the password policy?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong

64 TunnelBear 0 Votes Strong

Rules for password complexity and security.

Two-Factor Authentication

Is two-factor authentication available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Adds an extra layer of account security.

Customer Support & Documentation 8

Support Channels

What support channels are available?

64 Surfshark 1 Votes Live Chat, Email, Ticket

54 TunnelBear 0 Votes Email

Lists available customer support channels.

Surfshark has a live chat and community forum for support which is way better than TunnelBear's email only support.

See more

Knowledge Base

Is there a knowledge base?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates presence of a self-help knowledge base.

API Documentation

Is API documentation available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Provides documentation for API usage.

Response Time SLA

What is the response time SLA?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

64 TunnelBear 0 Votes Within 24 Hours

Expected support response time.

Community Forum

Is there a community forum?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates presence of a user community forum.

Setup Guides

Are setup guides available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Step-by-step instructions for installation on all supported platforms.

Provides step-by-step setup instructions.

Video Tutorials

Are video tutorials available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates availability of video-based tutorials.

Support Language Coverage

What support languages are available?

52 Surfshark 0 Votes English, Multi-language

14 TunnelBear 0 Votes English

Languages supported by customer service.

Billing, Plans & Trials 12

Trial Duration

How long is the free trial?

7 days 1 Votes
Surfshark
0 days 0 Votes
TunnelBear

Length of the free trial period.

Surfshark's 7-day trial is handy to test it out before committing while TunnelBear offers only a free trial but no fixed trial length.

See more

Free Trial Availability

Is a free trial available?

No 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates whether a free trial is offered.

Payment Methods Supported

What payment methods are supported?

60 Surfshark 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal, Cryptocurrency, Gift Card

54 TunnelBear 0 Votes Credit Card, PayPal

Supported payment methods.

Plan Flexibility

How flexible are the plans?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes High

44 TunnelBear 0 Votes Moderate

Ease of changing plans.

Plan Change Policy

What is the plan change policy?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Allowed Anytime

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Users can upgrade or downgrade without delay, useful for changing needs.

Policy governing whether users can upgrade or downgrade their subscription plans.

Subscription Length Options

What subscription lengths are available?

64 Surfshark 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

61 TunnelBear 0 Votes Monthly, Yearly, Multi-Year

Available subscription durations.

Money-Back Guarantee

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates availability of a refund guarantee.

Refund Period

What is the refund period?

67 Surfshark 0 Votes 30 Days

64 TunnelBear 0 Votes 30 Days

Time window for requesting refunds.

Anonymous Payment

Are anonymous payments supported?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Allows anonymous payment methods.

Auto-Renewal

Is auto-renewal enabled?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates whether subscriptions auto-renew.

Family Plan Availability

Are family plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates availability of family plans.

Business Plan Availability

Are business plans available?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Indicates availability of business plans.

Reliability, Trust & Reputation 11

Independent Security Audits

Are independent audits conducted?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Undergoes third-party security audits.

Audit Transparency

Are audit reports public?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Publishes full audit reports.

No-Log Claim Credibility

Is the no-logs claim credible?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Credibility of no-logs claims.

Company Transparency

Is company ownership transparent?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Provides clear policies and updates about operations and data handling.

Discloses ownership and leadership.

Public Reputation

What is the public reputation?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Excellent

54 TunnelBear 0 Votes Good

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Generally positive reviews from users and tech experts.

Overall public perception.

Third-Party Review Presence

Does the VPN have third-party reviews?

97 Surfshark 0 Votes Strong Presence

94 TunnelBear 0 Votes Strong Presence

TunnelBear
TunnelBear

Widely reviewed and compared across VPN review platforms.

Indicates whether the VPN service is actively reviewed on independent third-party platforms.

Service Uptime

What is the service uptime?

99.9 % 0 Votes
Surfshark

Who knows? 0 Votes TunnelBear (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Average service availability over time.

Downtime Transparency

Are downtimes disclosed?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

No 0 Votes TunnelBear

Discloses outages and maintenance publicly.

Jurisdiction Clarity

Is jurisdiction clearly stated?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Clearly states legal jurisdiction.

Transparency Reports

Are transparency reports published?

Yes 0 Votes Surfshark

Yes 0 Votes TunnelBear

Publishes government request reports.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Performance

How would you rate the overall performance of this VPN?

Very fast — Under 2 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Fast — 2 to 4 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Average speed — 4 to 6 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Slow — 6 to 10 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Very slow — Over 10 hours
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

Ease of Setup

How easy is it to set up this VPN?

Very easy — Takes under 5 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Easy — Takes 5 to 10 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Average — Takes 10 to 15 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Hard — Takes 15 to 30 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Very hard — Takes over 30 minutes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

User Interface

How would you describe the usability of this VPN's interface?

Very intuitive — Easy to navigate and use
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Easy to use — Clear and simple interface
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Average — Some features may be difficult to navigate
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Hard to use — Complex layout, hard to understand
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Very hard to use — Frustrating interface
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

Connection Stability

How stable is the connection when using this VPN?

Very stable — Rare disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Stable — Occasional disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Average stability — Frequent minor disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Unstable — Regular disconnections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Very unstable — Almost always disconnects
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

Security Features

How would you rate the security features of this VPN?

Top-notch security — Includes features like 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and kill switch
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Great security — Includes strong encryption and basic protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Average security — Standard encryption, basic protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Weak security — Limited encryption and few protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Poor security — No encryption or protections
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

Device Compatibility

How well does this VPN work across different devices?

Excellent compatibility — Works on all devices without issues
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Good compatibility — Works on most devices with few issues
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Average compatibility — Works on some devices, limited support
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Poor compatibility — Works only on specific devices
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Very limited compatibility — Works on very few devices
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

Speed During Use

How fast is your internet connection when using this VPN?

Very fast — No noticeable decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Fast — Slight decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Average speed — Moderate decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Slow — Significant decrease in speed
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Very slow — Extremely slow, hard to use
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

Customer Support

How would you rate the customer support for this VPN?

Exceptional — Quick responses, helpful solutions
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Good — Support is helpful and timely
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Average — Support is okay but may take some time
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Poor — Long wait times and incomplete solutions
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Very poor — No helpful support, slow responses
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

Design Appeal

How would you rate the design appeal of this VPN's interface?

Very appealing — Modern, clean, and visually pleasing
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Appealing — Simple and easy on the eyes
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Average — Nothing special, functional but basic
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Unappealing — Outdated and unattractive
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Very unappealing — Difficult to look at
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

Pricing

How would you rate the price of this VPN compared to its features?

Great value for money — Worth every penny
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Pretty good price — Good balance of features and cost
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Fair deal — Reasonable for the features provided
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Kinda pricey — Higher cost than expected
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear
Crazy expensive — Far too expensive for what it offers
0 Votes
Surfshark
0 Votes
TunnelBear

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
Surfshark
0 / 5 0 Reviews
TunnelBear
TunnelBear
TunnelBear
TunnelBear
0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions 0

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards 2

Only the best made it here.
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10 Champs & 5 Wannabes — Which VPN Keeps Ping Low Under Pressure?
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10 Champs & 10 Wannabes — Which VPN Actually Protects Your Data Best?

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Treasures You’ve picked. No fluff, all fun.

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Other TunnelBear VPN 0

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