TunnelBear VPN New Zealand Review 2025: User-Friendly, Secure, & Reliable

Introduction to TunnelBear VPN

What is TunnelBear VPN?

TunnelBear VPN is a user-friendly Virtual Private Network (VPN) service designed to enhance online privacy and security by encrypting internet connections and masking IP addresses. Founded in 2011 in Toronto, Canada, by Daniel Kaldor and Ryan Dochuk, the company emphasizes simplicity and accessibility, catering to users who prioritize ease of use. In 2018, TunnelBear was acquired by McAfee, further strengthening its resources and credibility in cybersecurity.

The VPN offers a mix of robust security features and whimsical branding, making it an approachable choice for beginners. With servers in over 49 countries, TunnelBear enables users to bypass geo-restrictions, safeguard their data on public Wi-Fi, and browse with greater anonymity.

Why Consider a VPN?

In today’s interconnected digital world, using a VPN has become a necessity rather than a luxury. Here’s why:

1. Enhanced Privacy: Internet Service Providers (ISPs), advertisers, and even cybercriminals often track user activity. VPNs like TunnelBear shield browsing data and keep it private.
2. Secure Connections: Public Wi-Fi networks in places like cafes, airports, and hotels are notoriously insecure. A VPN encrypts your connection, protecting sensitive information such as passwords and credit card details.
3. Access to Restricted Content: Streaming platforms, news websites, and services often have geographical restrictions. VPNs enable users to circumvent these barriers by routing their traffic through servers in different locations.
4. Censorship Bypass: In countries with strict internet censorship, VPNs help individuals access information and communicate freely.
5. Data Encryption: By encrypting your internet traffic, VPNs prevent third parties from intercepting or deciphering your communications.

TunnelBear stands out for its combination of strong security protocols like AES-256-bit encryption, user-friendly design, and transparent privacy policies. It’s particularly appealing to those new to VPNs or looking for a straightforward, hassle-free experience.

TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN service known for its strong security features, extensive server network, and intuitive interface. Here’s an in-depth look at its offerings:

Security and Privacy Features

• Encryption Protocols and Technologies: TunnelBear vpn New Zealand employs robust AES 256-bit encryption across all platforms, ensuring high-level data protection. It supports multiple VPN protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, allowing users to choose the protocol that best suits their needs.
• Privacy Policies and Logging Practices: TunnelBear maintains a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not collect or store users’ browsing activities. This commitment to user privacy is reinforced through annual independent security audits, demonstrating transparency and trustworthiness.

Server Network

• Coverage and Server Locations: TunnelBear boasts a network of over 8,000 servers across more than 45 countries, including locations in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. This extensive coverage allows users to access content from various regions with ease.
• Specialty Servers: While TunnelBear does not offer dedicated specialty servers for activities like streaming or gaming, its standard servers are optimized for general use, including secure browsing and accessing geo-restricted content. Additionally, TunnelBear supports Peer-to-Peer (P2P) friendly servers, allowing users to share files securely and privately.

User Interface and Ease of Use

• App Compatibility: TunnelBear provides applications compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. This cross-platform support ensures users can maintain their privacy across multiple devices seamlessly.
• Usability for Beginners and Tech-Savvy Users: TunnelBear’s interface is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring an interactive map and bear-themed animations that make connecting to different server locations straightforward. This design caters to beginners, while advanced users can access settings to customize their connection preferences, such as selecting preferred protocols or enabling features like GhostBear for obfuscation.

In summary, TunnelBear offers a comprehensive VPN service with strong security measures, a broad server network, and an intuitive user interface, making it a suitable choice for both novice and experienced users seeking online privacy and unrestricted internet access.

TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN service known for its approachable design and straightforward functionality. In this review, we’ll delve into its performance, speed, and how it compares to leading competitors like NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

TunnelBear VPN Speed Test Results

Connection Stability and Download/Upload Speeds

Recent speed tests indicate that TunnelBear has made significant improvements in 2024. From a European location with a base download speed of 303 Mbps and upload speed of 307 Mbps, connections to various TunnelBear servers yielded the following results:

• United Kingdom Server:
  • Download: 171 Mbps (44% decrease)
  • Upload: 50 Mbps (84% decrease)
  • Ping: 44 ms
• United States Server:
  • Download: 166 Mbps (45% decrease)
  • Upload: 9 Mbps (97% decrease)
  • Ping: 106 ms
• Australia Server:
  • Download: 151 Mbps (50% decrease)
  • Upload: 6 Mbps (98% decrease)
  • Ping: 475 ms

These results demonstrate that while download speeds remain relatively robust across different regions, upload speeds experience more significant reductions, particularly with distant servers like those in Australia.

Performance During Streaming and Gaming

TunnelBear’s improved download speeds facilitate streaming high-definition content with minimal buffering. Users have reported smooth playback of 1080p HD videos on platforms like YouTube.

However, the substantial decrease in upload speeds, especially on distant servers, may impact activities that require high upload bandwidth, such as live streaming or online gaming. Additionally, higher ping times on servers like those in Australia could lead to increased latency during online gaming sessions, potentially affecting real-time gameplay.

Comparisons with Competitors

Benchmark Against Other VPNs

When evaluating TunnelBear’s performance against competitors, several factors come into play:

• NordVPN: Renowned for its extensive server network and advanced security features, NordVPN consistently delivers high-speed connections. In comparisons, NordVPN has demonstrated faster download and upload speeds, making it a preferred choice for users prioritizing performance.
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• ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is acclaimed for its reliability and speed, boasting a vast server network across numerous countries. Speed tests have shown that ExpressVPN often surpasses TunnelBear in both download and upload metrics, providing a more seamless experience for streaming and gaming.

While TunnelBear offers competitive download speeds suitable for general browsing and standard-definition streaming, it may not match the performance levels of NordVPN and ExpressVPN, particularly for data-intensive activities.

TunnelBear has made commendable strides in enhancing its speed and performance in 2024. Its user-friendly interface and reliable download speeds make it a viable option for casual users focused on browsing and streaming. However, for those requiring superior upload speeds, lower latency for gaming, or advanced features, alternatives like NordVPN or ExpressVPN may be more suitable choices.

TunnelBear offers a range of pricing plans tailored to different user needs, including a free option and paid subscriptions with monthly and annual billing cycles.

Available Plans

• Free Plan: TunnelBear’s free plan provides users with 2 GB of secure browsing data per month, allowing access to all server locations. This option is suitable for those who require minimal data usage or wish to test the service before committing to a paid plan.
• Unlimited Plan: For users seeking unrestricted access, the Unlimited plan offers unlimited secure browsing and supports connections on an unlimited number of devices. Pricing options for the Unlimited plan are as follows:
• Monthly Subscription: $9.99 per month.
• Annual Subscription: $3.33 per month, billed annually at $39.99.
• Three-Year Subscription: $3.33 per month, totaling $120 billed once.
• Teams Plan: Designed for businesses and organizations, the Teams plan includes all features of the Unlimited plan, along with centralized team billing and administrative tools. It is priced at $5.75 per user per month.

Value for Money

TunnelBear’s pricing is competitive within the VPN market, particularly for short-term commitments. The monthly rate of $9.99 is lower than that of many competitors, such as NordVPN, which charges $12.99 per month. However, the long-term savings with TunnelBear’s three-year plan are minimal compared to its annual plan, both averaging $3.33 per month. In contrast, services like Private Internet Access offer more substantial discounts for extended commitments, with rates as low as $2.03 per month for a three-year plan.

While TunnelBear’s free plan is limited to 2 GB of data per month, it serves as a useful trial for users to evaluate the service. The Unlimited plan’s support for an unlimited number of devices is a notable advantage for users with multiple devices. However, the lack of significant discounts for longer-term plans may be a consideration for budget-conscious users seeking long-term VPN solutions.

In summary, TunnelBear offers a user-friendly VPN service with transparent pricing and flexible plans. While its short-term pricing is attractive, users looking for substantial long-term savings may find more cost-effective options elsewhere.

TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN service that offers various features tailored to different online activities. Here’s an in-depth look at its capabilities in streaming, torrenting, and public Wi-Fi protection.

Streaming Capabilities

TunnelBear’s performance with streaming platforms is mixed. While it can access certain services, it struggles with others:

• Netflix: TunnelBear has had inconsistent success with Netflix. Some users report access to Netflix libraries in countries like the US, Germany, and Canada, but reliability remains an issue.
• Other Platforms: The VPN has been able to unblock services like Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer. However, it faces challenges with platforms such as Disney+ and Hulu.

For users prioritizing streaming, especially on platforms like Netflix and Hulu, TunnelBear may not consistently meet expectations.

Torrenting and P2P Sharing

TunnelBear’s stance on torrenting and peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing is somewhat ambiguous:

• Policy: The official privacy policy does not explicitly mention torrenting or P2P activities. While some users have reported the ability to download torrents using TunnelBear, the lack of clear policy statements suggests that the service does not officially support or endorse such activities.
• User Experience: Given the absence of explicit support, users seeking a VPN primarily for torrenting might consider alternatives that openly permit and optimize for P2P sharing.

Public Wi-Fi and Travel Use

TunnelBear excels in securing data over public Wi-Fi networks, making it a reliable companion for travelers:

• Wi-Fi Protection: The service encrypts internet connections on unsecured networks, safeguarding users from potential data interception by malicious actors.
• VigilantBear Feature: TunnelBear offers a kill switch feature known as VigilantBear, which blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This ensures that user data remains protected even during connection interruptions.

For individuals frequently connecting to public Wi-Fi or traveling, TunnelBear provides robust security measures to maintain online privacy.

TunnelBear offers solid protection for users on public Wi-Fi and provides a straightforward interface. However, its inconsistent performance with streaming services and unclear stance on torrenting may be limiting factors for some users. Those with specific needs in streaming or P2P sharing might explore other VPN options that cater explicitly to these activities.

TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN service known for its approachable design and commitment to privacy. Below is an overview of its advantages and limitations:

Advantages of TunnelBear VPN New Zealand

• User-Friendly Interface: TunnelBear’s applications feature an intuitive, bear-themed design, making it accessible for users new to VPNs.
• Free Plan Availability: Offers a free plan with a 2GB monthly data cap, allowing users to test the service before committing to a paid plan.
• Strong Security Measures: Employs AES 256-bit encryption and supports secure protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2, ensuring robust data protection.
• Annual Independent Audits: Undergoes regular third-party security audits, demonstrating transparency and a commitment to user privacy.
• Unlimited Device Connections: Allows users to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously under a single subscription.

Limitations of TunnelBear VPN

• Limited Server Network: Operates servers in 47 countries, which is fewer compared to some competitors, potentially affecting connection options.
• Inconsistent Connection Speeds: Users have reported slower speeds and occasional connection issues, which may impact activities like streaming or downloading large files.
• Lack of Advanced Features: Does not offer certain advanced functionalities such as dedicated IP addresses or router support, which might be a drawback for some users.
• No Live Chat Support: Customer support is limited to email and a knowledge base, lacking a live chat option for immediate assistance.
• Limited Split Tunneling: The split tunneling feature, known as SplitBear, is only available on Android devices, restricting its use across other platforms.

In summary, TunnelBear VPN offers a user-friendly experience with strong security features and a commitment to transparency. However, limitations such as a smaller server network, inconsistent speeds, and lack of advanced features may influence its suitability depending on individual user needs.

TunnelBear, a VPN service based in Toronto, Canada, has garnered a mix of user experiences and expert opinions.

User Experiences

Many users appreciate TunnelBear’s user-friendly interface and whimsical design. For instance, Bobby S. mentions, “I’ve been following TunnelBear for a long time and have always wanted to check it out. When I finally did, I fell in love with the easy to use interface and the private browsing. Awesome experience.” Similarly, Meg C. notes, “Easy to use. Great for people tech savvy enough to know they need a VPN but un-tech savvy enough to not be able to handle more than an on/off switch. Also, cute graphics.”

However, some users have raised concerns about the service’s limitations. A reviewer on Capterra points out, “It is simple and gets the work done. It is intuitive and user-friendly. Easy to use and fast enough for average workload. It is reliable and I never had any failure connecting to any server.”

Expert Reviews

Experts have highlighted both strengths and weaknesses in TunnelBear’s offerings. TechRadar commends its simplicity, stating, “TunnelBear doesn’t have the largest network, or the most apps, or the longest of feature lists, but it does a good job of simplifying VPNs for novice users.”

On the other hand, Cybernews points out certain drawbacks, noting that TunnelBear “accepts major credit cards but does not support PayPal or cryptocurrency for anonymous payments, which is a common option for privacy-conscious users in other VPN services. Additionally, TunnelBear doesn’t offer a money-back guarantee, a drawback for those who want the flexibility to test it out risk-free.”

In summary, while TunnelBear is lauded for its approachable design and ease of use, especially for VPN newcomers, it faces criticism regarding its limited payment options and lack of a money-back guarantee.

TunnelBear is a widely recognized VPN service known for its user-friendly interface and commitment to privacy. Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about TunnelBear:

FAQS

Is TunnelBear Safe and Secure?

Yes, TunnelBear is considered safe and secure. It employs AES-256 bit encryption, a standard used by governments and security experts worldwide to protect data. Additionally, TunnelBear offers features like VigilantBear, which acts as a kill switch to protect your data if the VPN connection drops, and GhostBear, which makes your encrypted data less detectable to networks, enhancing privacy in restrictive regions.

Can TunnelBear Bypass Country Restrictions Like in China?

TunnelBear has features designed to bypass internet censorship in restrictive regions, including China. The GhostBear feature disguises VPN traffic to appear like regular internet traffic, helping to evade deep packet inspection used by some governments. However, the effectiveness can vary due to the constantly changing nature of internet censorship. Some users have reported success using TunnelBear in China, but it’s important to note that performance can be inconsistent.

Does TunnelBear Log User Data?

TunnelBear maintains a strict no-logging policy, meaning it does not collect information about the websites you visit or the contents of your online activity. This commitment to privacy is outlined in their privacy policy, ensuring that user activity remains confidential.

In summary, TunnelBear offers robust security features and has mechanisms to bypass certain country restrictions. Its strict no-logging policy further enhances user privacy, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a secure VPN service.

TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN service that offers a free plan with 2GB of data per month, making it accessible for users seeking basic online privacy. Its intuitive, bear-themed interface appeals to beginners, and it supports unlimited simultaneous device connections, which is advantageous for households with multiple devices.

The service provides robust security features, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch (VigilantBear), and split tunneling (SplitBear). Notably, TunnelBear undergoes annual independent security audits, with the most recent audit conducted by Cure53 in October 2023, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and user security.

However, TunnelBear has limitations that may affect certain users. Its server network spans 47 countries, which is smaller compared to some competitors. Additionally, while it can unblock some streaming services, it struggles with others, such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Performance issues have been reported, including unstable connections and slower speeds, particularly when connecting to distant servers.

Customer support is another area where TunnelBear falls short, lacking live chat support and relying on email tickets, which may result in slower response times.

Conclusion

For casual users seeking a straightforward VPN for basic browsing and online privacy, TunnelBear’s free plan and user-friendly interface make it a viable option. Its commitment to security through independent audits adds to its credibility. However, for heavy tech users requiring advanced features, extensive server networks, reliable streaming capabilities, and robust customer support, TunnelBear may not meet all expectations. In such cases, exploring other VPN services with more comprehensive offerings would be advisable.