NordVPN vs. TunnelBear: An In-Depth Comparison

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for protecting your privacy and security online. As cyber threats increase, more people are turning to leading VPN providers like NordVPN and TunnelBear.

But NordVPN and TunnelBear have key differences that cater to varying user needs. This comprehensive 2000+ word guide will compare all the critical features of these two services to help you decide which VPN is the better choice.

An Overview of NordVPN and TunnelBear

Founded in 2012, NordVPN is a market leader that consistently ranks as one of the most secure and fastest VPN providers. It‘s based in Panama and has a strict no-logging policy.

With over 5,500 servers worldwide, NordVPN focuses on advanced security features and unblocking geo-restricted content. It also has a huge range of native apps for different platforms.

TunnelBear, launched in 2011, positions itself as the simpler, more user-friendly VPN solution. With servers in over 20 countries, TunnelBear emphasizes ease-of-use, fun branding and maintaining user trust.

Now let‘s do an in-depth comparison of these two reputable VPNs across various categories:

Security Features and Encryption

Security is one of the most vital aspects of a VPN. NordVPN pulls ahead of TunnelBear with robust encryption standards and advanced security tools.

Encryption and Protocols

Both NordVPN and TunnelBear utilize AES-256 encryption – the industry standard – to secure user data.

In addition, they offer support for different VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2. These enable users to choose the protocol most suitable for their device and usage.

NordVPN also uses NordLynx – its customized WireGuard based protocol – which delivers faster speeds compared to the standard protocols.

Additional Security Features

NordVPN has several advanced security capabilities that help set it apart:

• Double VPN – Encrypts user data twice by routing through two separate VPN servers for enhanced privacy protection. Helpful for high-risk activities.

• CyberSec – An integrated tool that blocks ads, trackers and malicious sites with a single click. Increases online safety.

• Onion Over VPN – Lets you access the Tor anonymity network through NordVPN‘s servers for additional privacy.

Meanwhile, TunnelBear focuses more on ease of use rather than advanced security additions. However, TunnelBear‘s VigilantBear technology acts as a kill switch that blocks network data leakage if connections drop unexpectedly.

So while TunnelBear has the basics covered well, NordVPN goes above and beyond with extra layers of security and privacy.

Privacy Policies and Jurisdiction

A VPN‘s jurisdiction and logging policies also have huge privacy implications that users must consider.

Logging Policies

Both TunnelBear and NordVPN claim to have strict no-logging policies where they do not monitor, log or store user activity data.

But there are still key differences in how air-tight their logging policies are:

TunnelBear has its no-logging claims audited annually by independent third-party security researchers. These public audit reports help ensure TunnelBear adheres to its stated policies.

NordVPN has not undergone similar third-party audits. However, being based in Panama puts it outside the jurisdiction of international intelligence agencies. This makes it less prone to being coerced into logging user data.

Jurisdictions

NordVPN operates out of Panama, a country with no mandatory data retention laws. This makes it less likely to be forced to share user information with governments.

On the other hand, TunnelBear is based in Canada – part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance. So Canadian authorities could legally compel TunnelBear into providing user data to foreign agencies.

So while TunnelBear goes through great lengths to prove its credibility, sensitive users may prefer NordVPN due to its jurisdiction. But TunnelBear remains a trusted option for most casual users.

Speed and Performance

Speed is another vital evaluation criteria between NordVPN and TunnelBear. Let‘s explore how they fare.

NordVPN definitely seems faster compared to TunnelBear based on expert speed tests. NordVPN enjoys high speeds of over 200Mbps and above on local servers using WireGuard protocol.

Even with more distant servers, experts recorded decent speeds between 50-80Mbps during peak hours – more than enough for 4K streaming and gaming.

Meanwhile, TunnelBear managed speeds of around 10-35Mbps on nearby servers which should be adequate for most normal browsing. But users saw more fluctuations during high-traffic times, especially across longer distances.

NordVPN‘s speed advantage is mainly down to two key factors:

1. NordLynx Protocol – This customized WireGuard protocol is designed by NordVPN for fast connectivity. Tests show it outperforms OpenVPN and IKEv2 across short and long distances.

2. Widespread Infrastructure – With 5,500+ global servers, NordVPN has more network capacity to handle growing demands without compromising speed.

So NordVPN is the winner if you want reliably fast speeds for gaming, streaming etc. But TunnelBear should suffice for lighter activities like social media browsing and SD video streaming.

Servers and Global Presence

A VPN provider‘s server network impacts location flexibility, speed and accessibility. Let‘s examine both services.

NordVPN has the advantage here with over 5,500 servers in 60+ countries – offering users far more connection options. North and South America, Europe and parts of Asia Pacific are well covered.

Some unique locations like Albania, Hong Kong, Turkey and Ukraine are also present. 6 simultaneous connections allowed.

Meanwhile, TunnelBear provides over 1,000 servers across 20+ countries. Server density is focused mainly in North America and Europe. Just 5 device connections permitted simultaneously.

NordVPN provides 3X more servers and almost blanket global coverage. Benefits include:

1. Accessibility – Regardless of where you travel, NordVPN lets you connect to local servers easily for better speeds and bypassing geo-blocks.

2. Congestion – More servers allow distributing user loads efficiently so each individual server remains uncongested and fast.

3. Flexibility – You have hundreds of server options per country so switching connections until you find an optimal one is easy.

With its huge server network reaching little-served regions, NordVPN is the choice if location flexibility is important to you. But TunnelBear should suffice for basic needs.

Now let’s compare their abilities to access streaming services and P2P/torrenting.

Unblocking Streaming Services and Torrenting

Accessing popular geo-restricted platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer is a key reason many choose VPNs. Let‘s see how NordVPN and TunnelBear compare at unblocking top streaming services.

Streaming Capabilities

Experts tested both VPNs with platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ Hotstar and BBC iPlayer. The results clearly favor NordVPN.

In tests spanning over two years, NordVPN consistently provided access to the tested streaming platforms with only minor disruptions. Connection success rates of over 90% were recorded.

However, TunnelBear delivered more variable outcomes. Users struggled to reliably access restricted platforms over longer testing periods. Unblocking rates averaged just 60% across two years of testing.

NordVPN‘sstreamingconsistency is enabled by their:

• Specialized SmartPlay feature that guarantees access to major platforms.

• Dedicated IP Addresses allow securely accessing sites recognizing VPNs.

• Obfuscated Servers that disguise VPN traffic sneak past blocks.

For streaming lovers wanting reliable, long-term access to geo-locked libraries, NordVPN is the winner.

P2P/Torrenting Support

Both VPNs permit torrenting and P2P activities on their networks with decent speeds. No port forwarding is necessary as well.

NordVPN manages to again pull ahead slightly with dedicated specialty servers optimized for file sharing. Automatic kill switches also help guard torrenters.

So frequent torrent users may prefer NordVPN‘s smoothly integrated and reliable P2P capabilities. But TunnelBear works fine for lighter users.

Platform Compatibility

NordVPN provides apps for all major platforms – Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux and routers. Configuration guides are also available for manual setup on smart TVs, consoles and more.

Simultaneous connections are permitted on up to 6 devices. This allows securing multiple PCs, phones and tablets used by individuals or families. Router installation further expands this cap.

TunnelBear also offers easy-to-use apps for the most common platforms – Windows, iOS, Android and macOS. Their visual interface keeps things beginner-friendly.

Simultaneous connections are allowed on unlimited devices. But this is capped at 5 connected devices for their paid plans. Router compatibility further enhances this limit.

So TunnelBear might seem friendlier for families with its unlimited device policies. But cap of 5 simultaneous connections on paid plans still holds users back. NordVPN‘s 6 device allowance limit is ultimately more flexible.

Customer Support

Reliable customer service is vital when issues arise with VPN services. How do NordVPN and TunnelBear compare at providing support?

NordVPN wins when it comes to depth of support options. It offers 24/7 live chat where users get instant solutions from knowledgeable representatives. Additionally, email ticketing and extensive self-help guides and tutorials are available.

TunnelBear provides email-based ticket support and an excellent FAQ/knowledge base site. But lack of live chat is noticeable for users wanting urgent troubleshooting. Response times via email ticketing are usually fast however.

So for instant assistance, NordVPN triumphs with multiple options including round-the-clock live chat. But TunnelBear isn’t too far behind either regarding customer satisfaction with support.

Pricing and Plans

For pricing, both providers offer comparable plans with discounted 1-3 year options. Let‘s break it down:

NordVPN does slightly edge out TunnelBear when you consider the 2-year plan pricing. But TunnelBear remains decently competitive.

Cryptocurrency support on NordVPN also appeals to users wanting anonymous payments. Both offer industry-standard 30-day money-back guarantees.

So pricing shouldn‘t be a major factor when deciding between the two overall. But consider other long term advantages outlined earlier for NordVPN.

Final Verdict – Which VPN is Better for You?

So in the battle of NordVPN versus TunnelBear, NordVPN emerges as the winner overall – offering greater security, speeds and versatility that power users desire. Unmatched streaming capabilities also set it apart.

However, TunnelBear is an excellent choice for casual users who prioritize simplicity, ease-of-use and a trusted brand. It covers the core aspects well at competitive pricing. Lack of advanced features caters more towards basic usage.

Here is a quick comparison map to help summarize the key strengths of each VPN:

(Image Credit: Jason K. Without exception)

To conclude, while both providers are extremely reputable in their own right, NordVPN outclasses TunnelBear across factors like security, speeds, accessibility and device support. These give power users far greater control and flexibility.

But TunnelBear redeems itself well too as the friendly VPN perfectly suited for simpler casual usage.

So choose NordVPN if you want top-tier features to unlock the full potential of VPNs. Or opt for TunnelBear if you need easy security for daily activities. Either way, your online privacy and freedom will be protected.

I hope this guide gave you the comprehensive breakdown necessary decide whether NordVPN or TunnelBear is the right VPN solution for your needs! Let me know if you still have any other specific questions in the comments below.