TunnelBear vs NordLayer

NordVPN

ExpressVPN

Perimeter 81

Hack The Box

UTunnel VPN

ManageEngine OpManager Plus

Compare TunnelBear and NordLayer based on features, pricing, verified reviews, integrations & more on GetApp. Find out which software is best for your business in 2026.

Cisco AnyConnect

Cisco AnyConnect is a virtual private network (VPN) software designed to provide remote workforce with secure enterprise-wide network access across multiple locations and devices. Administrators can utilize the platform to identify network usage details.

UTunnel offers easy-to-deploy Cloud VPN, Zero Trust Access, and Mesh Networking solutions. Safeguard your business with secure remote access and encrypted site-to-site connectivity between distributed business networks. Deployment in minutes, Robust Support, and Affordable Pricing Plans!

GoodAccess

Cybersecurity platform (SASE/SSE) that enables easy Zero Trust Architecture implementation for medium enterprises, any scale.

TunnelBear is a virtual private network (VPN) system that helps businesses generate encrypted tunnels for routing corporate data and maintaining confidentiality. The software protects organizations by converting browsing history into an unreadable format so hackers cannot access it.

Access Controls/Permissions

Activity Dashboard

Activity Monitoring

Anti Spam

Application Security

Data Security

Encryption

Financial Data Protection

Network Provisioning

Real-Time Monitoring

Secure Login

Security Auditing

Threat Intelligence

Threat Response

User Management

Most reviewers indicate TunnelBear offers good value for money, especially due to its free plan and ability to connect multiple devices. However, some users report restrictive data limits and higher paid plan costs compared to competitors.

Value for money

Reviews for TunnelBear come from a wide variety of industries, including Information Technology and Services (14% of reviewers), Computer Software (10%), and Marketing and Advertising (4%). The most frequent use case for TunnelBear cited by reviewers is VPN (92% of reviewers).

TunnelBear

Web-based

iPad

Android

Windows

iPhone

Linux

Basic

Software Engineer

TunnelBear allows me to effectively access geo-locked website by just switching to my favorite server IP.

Another nice feature is browser extension, i you dont want to install the app and use the VPN just for browsing, the extension is perfect.

IT Specialist

Sometimes it spams asking you to buy the full version if you do not have it.

Assistant Manager

I use TunnelBear on a daily basis to access geo-locked websites from my local IP.

Administrator

It has basic good features, enough VPN protocols, having a stable internet connection and good internet speed that can rival that of other VPNs.

Onwer

I haven't uninstalled it but I didn't renew premium.

TunnelBear protect my identity online from attackers.

IT Technician

There are a lot of servers to choose from and the price is good in a way.

Co-founder

The issue of getting tied to particular servers exists. But I personally feel it isn’t hindering any of my use since I don’t need to access a specific nations servers.

Sometimes, your account can be logged out and you need to sign-in again but it is not that much of a deal-breaker as it happens only a few times from using it.

The latest VPN protocol, wireguard is added; therefore you are not missing out on latest features.

I also encountered a bug about connecting as clicking it didn't do anything; therefore, I exited the app and reopened one more time to solve the problem.

Managing Editor

TunnelBear contains a plethora of VPN connection options to browse from the fastest and most secure option possible and secure your data and IP address.

Translator

Provides an extra layer of security for work when out and about away from my home network as well as access to more content for personal entertainment.

software engineer

This supports for all platforms and all major browsers as extensions.

Don't let cheap price fool you as it is a good VPN with tons of features that you can also get on other pricy VPNs.

Flutter Developer

I felt a hit on my internet speed and could not get streaming app running with TunnelBear.

Huge discount on for first year of using.

I like the fact that they provide you with FREE bandwidth monthly, I believe and you almost never get it depleted

Your ping can spike extremely which leads to everything freezing due to timeout which is very annoying. When you want to deinstall it , then individual parts have to be removed manually which should quite honestly not even be allowed.

Project Manager

Sometimes the 500mb might not be enough for a month but for free you can not complain much :))

Economist

you should turn it on only when you need to change your country IP and then turn it off when you finish using it so that it does not affect the operation of the rest of the applications.

I have been using tunnel bear paid version for gaming for security purposes.

Worked for both an added layer of security when on public wifi networks and for access content/sites otherwise location blocked when traveling.

Software Tech/Appointment Setter

We are now able to access platforms that are area sensitive by selecting the location we wish to have our IP mirroring.

Tunnelbear is a great VPN that people can rely on which saving money along the way.

Designer

It provides an added layer of security with the VPN feature when I join a public network.

It can take forever to make the connection sometimes

It is very easy to install and start using it, it is good for example for when you need to work with an application that you cannot use in a specific country, Tunnelbear allows you to change your IP address so that it seems that you are in another country and you can use the application without leaving the country in which you are.

Principal Software Engineer

Developers found their own original mascot and style, they are doing there best to tell sort of a story about the bear, drawing different icons for trial and even having a special minification screen when you are about to cancel  the service (trust me, I hesitated for a good week before I could transform bear to cub).

Computer engineer 

I like the large amount of MB available with the free package, the connection is good, it's fast and secure.

Sonographer

This can cause a decrease in page loading speeds and can be quite annoying.

Unfortunately, TunnelBear doesn't have servers everywhere, even in big countries or cities

Self employed 

How fast it can be to block sites that you don't want to share location with or apps it's easy and very well made

Mechatronic Technician

TunnelBear is one of first VPN Service Softwares I found. And it is easy to use, just one click and your Bear is appearing in another country with another IP Adress, working realiably!

Attorney-at-Law

There is a free account which you can use to test it out and check out all the features.

They audit their software and make the 3rd party report publically available so that you can trust your data is even private from them.

The interface is super self-explanatory and I've never had an issue with purchasing and using.

Content Creator / TESOL Tutor

It worked well for social media live streaming.

Developer

The dashboard is very easy-to-use and intuitive. Plus, the software has expanded the number of countries available for tunneling

You can select the location that you want to be connected to.

Decent, value for money and overall delivers with little compromise

Student(Former Accounts Clerk)

Furthermore, the VPN protects me by hiding my IP address, which also protects me from becoming a victim of a cyber attack.  

It works fine from any device, including the Google extension.

Student

You can also access blocked or censored websites through it which is very useful for people living in regions with strict political censorship.

The least thing I like about TunnelBear is that it can be slow at times.

Owner/Practitioner

Large companies are constantly trying to thwart VPNs and stealth IP addresses and it's an ongoing game to adapt the technology.

VPN Service

Pricing

Security and Access Control

Access to Blocked Websites

Connection

Country Selection

Browser Extension

Security and Privacy

Streaming

Free Bandwidth

Recurring software glitches

59% of reviewers feel negative about TunnelBear’s bugs and issues. Reviewers report experiencing crashes, error messages, and problems with updates or uninstalling the software. They say the app sometimes stops working and requires manual restarts or reinstallation. Some users mention difficulties recovering accounts or receiving support emails. They feel that reliability is a concern, with occasional glitches disrupting their workflow or causing frustration. Reviewers note that these issues can be particularly problematic when using the software for business or more complex applications.

Frequent speed reductions

The servers are very slow which cause web pages to take a longer time to load.

Engagement Strategist

Not only did it often slow down significantly, but it would regularly cut out entirely and I would have to reboot the app repeatedly to try and get it working again.

62% of reviewers feel negative about TunnelBear’s performance and speed. Reviewers indicate that server speeds can be inconsistent, with some locations causing significant slowdowns and long connection times. They say web pages may load slowly, and the app can lag or become unresponsive, especially on certain servers or during heavy use. Some users report that slow speeds impact their ability to stream, play games, or perform work tasks efficiently. They mention that speed issues are particularly noticeable for free accounts or when connecting to less popular regions.

Unstable connection reliability

49% of reviewers feel negative about TunnelBear’s connection stability. Reviewers say the VPN connection can drop unexpectedly, sometimes without warning or notification. They report long connection times, occasional failures to connect, and instances where the app appears connected but is not functioning. Some users mention that reconnection after a drop can be slow, and that connection issues can interrupt work or streaming. They also note that the lack of alerts for disconnections makes it difficult to know when their connection is no longer secure.

Effortless setup process

Website Designer

Ease of use and quick setup makes it a suitable option for start ups and individuals .

100% of reviewers feel positive about TunnelBear’s setup process. Reviewers indicate that installation is straightforward across multiple platforms, including Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. They find the setup process requires minimal technical knowledge and appreciate the abundance of guides for configuration. Some users say even those with limited computer experience can install and start using the software quickly. They value the one-click setup and note that the product is ready to use almost immediately after installation. Reviewers appreciate that the setup is fast, making it suitable for both individuals and startups.

Charming visual design

Graphic Designer

I am always delighted by the subtle animations and clean design elements they use to convey clear messages to me about how TunnelBear is protecting my device.

98% of reviewers feel positive about TunnelBear’s design and animation. Reviewers highlight the clean, visually appealing layout and delightful animations, which make the software enjoyable to use. They mention that the cute bear-themed graphics and thoughtful design details enhance the user experience and make the app feel approachable. Some users say the design is easy on the eyes and helps convey information clearly. They find the playful animations and branding contribute to a positive impression and make routine tasks more engaging.

Intuitive and playful interface

98% of reviewers feel positive about TunnelBear’s user interface. Reviewers appreciate the intuitive and visually appealing design, describing it as user-friendly and easy to navigate. They say the interface includes helpful descriptions for complex features, making it accessible to beginners. Some users report that the playful graphics and lighthearted elements make the experience enjoyable and less intimidating for those new to VPNs. They find the interface uncluttered and straightforward, which helps them quickly locate settings and manage connections without confusion.

Simple everyday usability

Associate Software Engineer

With a great User Interface, It is very easy to use.

97% of reviewers feel positive about TunnelBear’s ease of use. Reviewers indicate that the software is highly intuitive, requiring little to no learning curve. They say the interface and controls are straightforward, allowing users to connect or disconnect with a single click. Some users report that even those with minimal technical skills can operate the app confidently. They appreciate that the software is reliable for daily use and that its simplicity makes it accessible for a wide range of users, including children and seniors.

Small Business

Large Enterprises

Mid-size Business

Freelancers

Most reviewers indicate that TunnelBear offers good value for money, especially appreciating the availability of a free plan that allows users to test the service before committing to a paid subscription. They say the free tier, while limited in monthly data, is helpful for students, those on a budget, or users with occasional VPN needs. Users think the ability to connect multiple devices under one account adds to the perceived value, and some mention periodic discounts and a money-back guarantee as positive aspects. Reviewers appreciate that the free plan is not time-limited and can be extended through certain actions, making it accessible for basic use or trial purposes.

However, some reviewers feel the free plan’s data allowance is too restrictive, making it difficult to properly evaluate the service or use it for anything beyond minimal tasks. They report that the paid plans can be more expensive than some competitors, and that the lack of regional pricing or limited server options in the paid tier detracts from the overall value. Some users say the cost is a barrier, especially for students or those in countries with weaker currencies, and a few indicate that the annual subscription model is not ideal for short-term or trial use.

Perimeter 81 is a leading network cybersecurity solution offering secure remote access and network capabilities managed over a multi-tenant cloud and highly scalable for organizations worldwide.

NordLayer’s cutting-edge business VPN offers secure site-to-site connections via encrypted tunnels. With global shared and dedicated servers, businesses get fast, reliable, and secure access to resources—deployed within minutes for immediate protection.

TunnelBear vs NordLayer Comparison (2026)

TunnelBear

NordLayer

Overview

Video & Screenshots

Pricing

User reviews

Key features

Integrations

Alternatives