ClearVPN vs TunnelBear
ClearVPN and TunnelBear both offer robust privacy but cater to very different user needs. ClearVPN targets extreme ease of use and the lowest annual price point. TunnelBear prioritizes security verification and supports an unlimited number of devices. This guide helps you choose the most reliable security for your specific online demands.
Simple security hindered by operational friction.
We found ClearVPN delivers robust security features, like AES-256 encryption and a strict No-Logs policy, all wrapped in a sleek, simple interface. However, user feedback indicates high friction concerning connection reliability and inconsistent billing practices, particularly post-free trial. Overall, we recommend ClearVPN for its low cost and ease of use, but users should be prepared for potential technical hurdles and should closely monitor their subscription status.
Pros
- Extremely competitive annual pricing (effective $3.75 per month).
- Simple, modern user interface (UI) and easy installation process.
- Backed by a strict No-Logs policy and AES-256 encryption.
- Allows connectivity for up to six devices per account.
Cons
- Users report highly inconsistent connection reliability.
- Trial cancellation process is problematic; users report unauthorized charges.
- The 'shortcuts' connection method is often confusing and frustrating.
- Difficulty managing or updating subscriptions via the website.
Strong Security Meets Stability Concerns.
We appreciate TunnelBear's commitment to verified privacy through annual security audits and a transparent no-logging policy. However, recent users consistently report severe stability flaws and unresponsive customer service, suggesting real execution issues within the core product experience. Overall, the foundational security is rigorously verified, but we cannot overlook the reported volatility in connection reliability and the difficulties reaching support.
Pros
- Unique commitment to annual, independent security audits.
- Strict no-logging policy guarantees user privacy.
- Extremely easy-to-use interface and fast, adorable setup.
- Generous Free plan provides 2GB of data and country selection.
Cons
- Frequent, recent reports of connectivity issues and constant disconnections.
- Software can be buggy (shows connected when service is dropped).
- Customer support is frequently non-existent or unresponsive to issues.
- Reports of misleading advertising for city-level link features.
AboutClearVPN
ClearVPN is an incredibly simple yet powerful VPN service. It’s the perfect choice for users who want to expand their digital horizons and achieve top-level protection without complexity. This app hides powerful technology behind a single button for a truly effortless experience. The eye-pleasing interface is simple and elegant, making your journey pleasant and smooth. You can also connect up to six devices per account. 💡
AboutTunnelBear
TunnelBear is a strong service designed to make your internet connection secure across any network you access. It accomplishes this by encrypting all your data. This essential protection ensures your passwords and activity stay securely hidden, especially when you are connected to insecure public hotspots. Millions of people already trust TunnelBear for dependable security and privacy. 💡
Highlights
Feature Comparison
Features Overview
We highlight the main differences and pick a winner for each feature.
Security Verification
TunnelBear requires annual external audits; ClearVPN relies solely on its company reputation.
ClearVPN enforces a strict No-Logs policy and uses high-level encryption for user privacy. It promises ironclad security developed by the trusted MacPaw company. TunnelBear stands out by being the only VPN provider with annual, independent security audits. This external verification helps users fully trust TunnelBear’s security claims. ClearVPN's internal promise versus TunnelBear's verified claim is the key differentiator here. Users valuing verifiable proof will find TunnelBear significantly more compelling.
Device Limits
TunnelBear secures unlimited devices; ClearVPN only allows up to six connections.
ClearVPN offers coverage for up to six simultaneous devices per premium account. This limit easily secures most multi-device households under one subscription plan. TunnelBear's paid plans, both Unlimited and Teams, support an unlimited number of devices. You can secure every phone, tablet, and computer instantly with TunnelBear. For users with large families or many gadgets, TunnelBear requires a far simpler calculation. Protecting every single screen is much easier with TunnelBear’s structure.
Free Access Model
TunnelBear offers a permanent Free plan; ClearVPN only provides a strict 3-day trial.
ClearVPN offers a full-featured 3-day free trial before you must pay for a full subscription. TunnelBear facilitates testing with a permanent Free plan, providing 2GB of monthly secure browsing data. This TunnelBear option is ideal for users with very limited usage needs or long-term testing. ClearVPN requires a speedy decision after three days; TunnelBear gives you unlimited time to test performance.
Team Functionality
TunnelBear provides specialized team tools; ClearVPN is focused solely on individual users.
ClearVPN functions purely as an individual product, lacking features necessary for administrative management. It offers no options for centralized billing or user management. TunnelBear offers a dedicated Teams plan, starting for two or more users at $5.75 per user monthly. This TunnelBear plan includes admin tools and centralized team billing for easy organizational management. Businesses looking to secure multiple employees must choose TunnelBear for these necessary scaling capabilities.
Connection Reliability
ClearVPN is inconsistent but usable; TunnelBear users cite severe, frequent disconnections.
ClearVPN sometimes suffers from inconsistent connection reliability, which users find frustrating. Issues include needing to manually manage confusing connection 'shortcuts'. TunnelBear faces far more severe criticism regarding stability, with frequent reports of sudden disconnections. Users report buggy software that appears connected even when the service has dropped. Based on external reviews, ClearVPN appears significantly more stable despite its own reported issues. TunnelBear's volatility is a major pain point.
Customer Support
ClearVPN offers advertised 24/7 support; TunnelBear support is frequently non-existent.
ClearVPN advertises that all premium subscribers receive access to 24/7 customer support. TunnelBear provides Priority support only to paid plans, but users report a major disconnect here. Many TunnelBear customers cite support as non-existent or completely unresponsive to severe bugs. If support responsiveness is important, ClearVPN, despite user friction, promises coverage. TunnelBear’s highly negative support reports make professional help questionable.
Location Control
ClearVPN uses goal-oriented hashtags; TunnelBear allows precise city-level selection.
ClearVPN provides unique 'Smart Hashtags' to find servers for specific goals easily. Examples include finding 'lowest online prices' or minimizing web restrictions conveniently. TunnelBear allows paid users precise control with city-level server selection. This offers detailed geographic control for more specialized location-sensitive tasks. ClearVPN’s approach is simpler and goal-focused. TunnelBear offers finer control over your virtual location.
Our Verdict
Choosing between ClearVPN and TunnelBear means weighing stability against unlimited devices and security audits. For everyday individual users, ClearVPN is the safer, less frustrating solution today. TunnelBear's core instability issues often overshadow its otherwise excellent, verifiable security features. ClearVPN’s superpower is making strong security truly effortless with its one-tap functionality. ClearVPN is ideal if you value a modern, elegant interface and the lowest long-term annual price. ClearVPN appears more consistent in connectivity, despite user complaints regarding subscription management friction. If you only need to protect six devices or less, ClearVPN is the option with better reported reliability. TunnelBear excels by offering industry-leading verifiable security through annual independent audits. TunnelBear is indispensable when you need to secure unlimited devices or manage a small business team effectively. However, TunnelBear must address serious problems regarding connection reliability and unresponsive customer service detailed in user reviews. The deciding factor should be reliability versus device coverage and audit confidence. If your daily browsing cannot tolerate frequent drops, ClearVPN is definitely the safer choice right now. If you absolutely need unlimited device connections or specialized team features, you might risk the current volatility of TunnelBear. ClearVPN wins for the user who prioritizes current stability and seamless performance over feature quantity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which VPN offers better multi-device coverage: ClearVPN or TunnelBear?
TunnelBear is the clear winner for device coverage on paid plans. TunnelBear paid plans support an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. ClearVPN only allows a maximum of six devices per premium subscription plan.
Does ClearVPN or TunnelBear have better reported connection stability?
ClearVPN appears marginally more stable, though users report some inconsistency. TunnelBear faces severe user reports regarding frequent disconnections and buggy software performance currently. If stability is paramount, avoid TunnelBear right now.
Does TunnelBear use an independent security audit like ClearVPN?
No, TunnelBear is the only provider to commit to annual, independent security audits. ClearVPN relies on its strict No-Logs policy and developer reputation. TunnelBear provides verifiable proof of its security claims, which ClearVPN does not.
Which is cheaper for long-term use: ClearVPN or TunnelBear?
TunnelBear’s Unlimited plan starts slightly lower at $3.33/month with an annual commitment. ClearVPN is very close yearly at an effective $3.75/month. Both ClearVPN and TunnelBear offer great value, but TunnelBear is marginally cheaper annually.
I need a free plan; should I choose ClearVPN or TunnelBear?
You should choose TunnelBear, as it offers a generous and permanent Free plan with 2GB of data monthly. ClearVPN only offers a full-featured 3-day free trial before requiring a purchase commitment.
Can I use ClearVPN or TunnelBear for my small business team?
TunnelBear offers a dedicated Teams plan with centralized billing and admin tools for two or more users. ClearVPN is purely designed for individual use and does not offer any specialized business management functionality.
Ready to Choose?
Both tools have their strengths. Choose based on your specific needs.