Windscribe vs. TunnelBear: Which VPN Should You Choose?

The main difference between Windscribe and TunnelBear is that Windscribe offers up to 15 GB per month for free users, per month, with access to all the same features available to paid users.

TunnelBear, on the other hand, only offers 2GB per month to free users, which can be quite restrictive. Additionally, TunnelBear has limited functionality and reach, when compared to Windscribe. Some specific comparison points:

Lack of advanced features such as Double-Hop, MAC Spoofing and Customizable Ad & Tracker Blocking
No router support
No option to add Static IP
Limited protocols: only 3 protocols (Windscribe has 6)
Limited locations: only 46 countries (Windscribe has 69+)

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into Windscribe and TunnelBear and help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs. We will take a look at: Pricing, Features/Privacy Tools, User Experience, Speed, Reviews & Customer Support.

Before we get into it, it should be noted that TunnelBear was acquired by McAfee in 2018, a U.S.-based cybersecurity company. This acquisition raised some concerns among privacy-focused users. Windscribe remains independently-owned and self-funded. Now let's dig in!

Windscribe vs TunnelBear: Feature Comparison Table

Comparison chart of Windscribe vs. TunnelBear, showing Windscribe has superior features and offerings — 15 GB free vs 2 GB? I think we've made our point.

Windscribe vs TunnelBear: Feature and Price Comparison

Come along and take a closer look at how these two VPNs stack up!

Pricing

Pricing is often a decisive factor for users looking to invest in a VPN service. Both Windscribe and TunnelBear offer free versions and paid plans for more comprehensive coverage.

Windscribe’s free plan includes 2 GB of monthly data, which can be extended to 10 GB when you verify your email (plus 5 GB extra just by posting on X!). This plan is generous compared to most free VPNs, providing access to several servers globally, including in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Windscribe’s paid plans are also flexible: it offers a Pro plan, which includes unlimited data and access to all server locations. Users can subscribe monthly ($9 USD per month), yearly (as low as $29 USD per month during a sale), or even customize their plans through Windscribe’s unique “Build a Plan” feature, which allows users to pick specific locations and add unlimited data for as little as $3 USD per month.

TunnelBear, on the other hand, provides a free plan with 2 GB of monthly data, which is less than Windscribe’s maximum offer. TunnelBear offers a fixed monthly at $9.99 USD per month or yearly subscription called at $40 USD for the first year, then $60 USD, to access to all locations and unlimited data. TunnelBear doesn’t provide a customizable plan like Windscribe, meaning users are limited to a one-size-fits-all approach.

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Verdict: Windscribe wins, with a more generous free tier as well as flexible options for paid plans, starting as low as $3 USD per month for unlimited data. For users who value customization and scalability, Windscribe’s is the way to go.

Features and Privacy Tools

Privacy is the cornerstone of any VPN service, and both Windscribe and TunnelBear emphasize protecting user data, but their offerings differ significantly in depth and scope.

Windscribe is known for its advanced privacy tools beyond basic VPN encryption. It offers features like R.O.B.E.R.T, a customizable domain and IP blocking tool that goes beyond ad-blocking, providing users with control over trackers, malware, social networks, and more. Windscribe also offers a secure hotspot feature, MAC Spoofing, and Double Hop, which allows users to route their traffic through two servers for added anonymity. Windscribe supports various protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard, WStunnel and Stealth, ensuring flexibility and security even in restrictive regions.

TunnelBear focuses on simplicity and ease of use. Like Windscribe, it has a split tunneling feature, does not log customer data and a special mode to help bypass censorship. However, its features are not as extensive as Windscribe’s; it lacks customizable blocking tools or multi-hop capabilities.

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Verdict: While both services are effective for basic privacy needs, Windscribe offers a more robust suite of tools for advanced users looking for customization and additional layers of security, making Windscribe the clear winner.

User Experience

User experience (UX) is critical for VPN users who want a smooth, hassle-free experience, whether they’re tech-savvy or complete beginners. Windscribe and TunnelBear each cater to different user preferences in terms of interface and ease of use.

Windscribe’s interface is designed with simplicity in mind but still offers advanced customization options for power users. The app is clean, intuitive, and quick to navigate, providing easy access to various features like R.O.B.E.R.T, firewall settings, and protocol selection.

Windscribe’s support for multiple devices and platforms, including browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, further enhances the user experience by allowing seamless integration across devices.

TunnelBear, meanwhile, is all about simplicity and charm. The app features a friendly and engaging bear theme, with animations that visualize your connection as a tunneling bear. The interface is minimalistic, making it perfect for users who want a straightforward VPN experience without diving into technical details. However, the trade-off for this simplicity is a lack of advanced settings. For those who want to tweak their VPN experience, TunnelBear’s minimalist approach may feel limiting.

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Verdict: While both VPNs provide users with simple, easy to use apps, Windscribe’s user experience is more adaptable, appealing to both novice and advanced users.

Speed

VPN speed is crucial, especially for users who stream content, download large files, or game online. Both Windscribe and TunnelBear aim to offer fast and reliable speeds, but the extent of their server networks and protocols makes a difference.

Windscribe provides a broad selection of servers worldwide and supports several modern protocols like WireGuard, which is known for its speed and efficiency. With these options, users can optimize their connections for performance or privacy, depending on their needs. Plus, with a wider network of server locations than TunnelBear, you are more likely to be able to connect to a location close to home, which often results in better speeds.

TunnelBear, while also offering a global server network, does not support as many advanced protocols as Windscribe. Its performance is generally reliable for basic browsing and streaming, but speed drops are more noticeable when connecting to servers farther away.

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Verdict: Ultimately, Windscribe has the edge when it comes to speed due to its advanced protocol support and larger server network. For those who need consistent performance for high-bandwidth activities, Windscribe is likely the better choice.

Reviews

Windscribe and TunnelBear both receive positive feedback, but their reputations differ based on user preferences and needs.

Windscribe is often praised for its versatile set of privacy tools, transparency, and flexible pricing model. User reviews in the Google Play Store and Trustpilot appreciate the range of advanced features available, even on the free plan, and the ability to customize paid options. Experts highlight Windscribe’s commitment to privacy, citing its clear no-logs policy and the company’s transparency reports.

5 Star Review of Windscribe on Google Play Store, mentioning multi-device support, advanced features and simple UI.

5 Start Trustpilot review from user who has used Windscribe for 8 years, noting it has always worked perfectly

5 Star Google Play Store review mentioning our lack of paid advertisement, multi-platform support and rich features — Don't just trust us, trust our users!

TunnelBear enjoys a solid reputation for its ease of use and friendly, approachable branding. However, TunnelBear’s limited features and smaller server network are often noted as drawbacks, particularly by power users seeking more flexibility and speed.

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Verdict: Both VPNs are well-regarded in their own right, but Windscribe is generally recommended for users who want more control and advanced features, while TunnelBear appeals to those who prefer a simple, beginner-friendly experience.

Customer Support

Customer support is an essential aspect of any VPN service, specifically for folks who encounter issues with setup, troubleshooting, or billing.

Windscribe provides a variety of support options, including a ticket-based system and its live chat bot, Garry, which can assist with both simple and more complex questions. For more advanced or specific technical concerns, users can submit a support ticket. Windscribe also engages with users through Reddit and Discord, offering additional avenues for support and community interaction.

Additionally, Windscribe features an extensive knowledge base for those who prefer to find answers and troubleshoot independently.

TunnelBear focuses on a self-service model, featuring an in-depth help center with a range of FAQs, tutorials, and guides aimed at helping users resolve issues on their own. Though it doesn’t offer live chat support, the resources available are structured to provide clear and accessible information for users who prefer a do-it-yourself approach.

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Verdict: While both Windscribe and TunnelBear offer various self-service options for support, Windscribe also has a live chat bot with extensive knowledge as well as email support, making Windscribe the winner in this category.

Conclusion

While both VPNs are solid choices, Windscribe stands out as the more versatile and feature-rich option compared to TunnelBear. It offers advanced privacy tools, flexible pricing plans, and strong performance, making it suitable for users who want more control and customization. While TunnelBear is good option for beginners seeking simplicity, Windscribe’s broader capabilities and enhanced flexibility make it the better option for those looking for a comprehensive VPN solution.

👉 Read why PC Mag gave Windscribe its Editor’s Choice award

Rebecca Rosenberg