We tested NordVPN (4.6/5) and TunnelBear (3.2/5) across speed, privacy, streaming, and price. NordVPN leads on overall score. Here is what drives the gap.
| Criteria | NordVPN | TunnelBear |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 4.6/5 ★ | 3.2/5 |
| Jurisdiction | Panama | Canada |
| 14-Eyes / 5-Eyes | No | Five |
| No-logs policy | Audited 5/5 ★ | Audited 4/5 |
| Speed score | 5/5 ★ | 1/5 |
| Protocols score | 5/5 ★ | 4/5 |
| Streaming score | 5/5 ★ | 3/5 |
| Leak protection | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| RAM-only servers | 5/5 ★ | 0/5 |
| Encryption score | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Security subtotal | 5.0/5 ★ | 3.6/5 |
| Trust subtotal | 4.7/5 ★ | 3.0/5 |
| Price (monthly) | $12.99/mo | $9.99/mo |
| Price (1-year total) | $59.88/yr | $48.00/yr |
| Price (2-year total) | $83.43/yr | N/A |
| Money-back guarantee | Yes, 60 days | Depends on individual |
| Pricing score | 4.0/5 ★ | 3.5/5 |
Where NordVPN wins
Where NordVPN pulls ahead: speed (5/5 vs 1/5), privacy and security (5.0/5 vs 3.6/5), streaming (5/5 vs 3/5), value for money (4.0/5 vs 3.5/5), transparency and trust (4.7/5 vs 3.0/5), features (4.6/5 vs 3.4/5). If those criteria matter most to you, NordVPN is the stronger pick.
Where TunnelBear wins
TunnelBear does not outscore NordVPN on individual criteria. At 3.2/5, it remains a solid option with consistent performance.
Who should pick what
Both VPNs cover the basics well. NordVPN is the stronger pick for streaming, while TunnelBear makes more sense if you need privacy. When in doubt, check our VPN quiz for a personalised recommendation.
Want to compare all VPNs side by side? Check our full VPN comparison table with scores across 18 criteria.
NordVPN wins this comparison (4.6/5 vs 3.2/5). It leads on speed and offers strong value overall. TunnelBear is worth considering if privacy is your priority. Try NordVPN with their money-back guarantee.
For more context, check our full VPN comparison table or the best VPN for streaming guide. Read our full NordVPN review for a complete breakdown. See our TunnelBear review for more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on our 2026 data: NordVPN (4.6/5) outscores TunnelBear (3.2/5) overall. Choose NordVPN for streaming, or TunnelBear if you need privacy. Still unsure? Take our [VPN quiz](/) for a personalised recommendation.
NordVPN: Audited no-logs policy (score: 5/5). TunnelBear: Audited no-logs policy (score: 4/5). See our [comparison table](/compare) for full audit details.
Obfuscation support and firewall conditions change frequently. Check our [best VPN for China guide](/blog/best-vpn-china-2026/) for up-to-date information on which VPNs reliably bypass the Great Firewall.