Encrypt.me vs TunnelBear

Encrypt.me, founded in 2011 and based in Seattle, Washington, was a security-focused VPN service designed to protect users on both private and public Wi-Fi networks. They offered strong encryption, Auto-Secure (kill switch), split tunneling for Android, and dedicated IP options for families and teams. Their unlimited device connections made them a flexible choice for individuals and businesses alike. While Encrypt.me was easy to use and had a transparent policy, it had some drawbacks. Being based in the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance also raised privacy concerns. Pricing was flexible, offering one-time passes (weekly, monthly, yearly) and recurring subscriptions (monthly or annual plans). They also provided family and team plans for multiple users. A 14-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee allowed users to test the service risk-free. In 2021, Encrypt.me merged with StrongVPN, discontinuing their standalone service. Users were transitioned to StrongVPN, which retained some of Encrypt.me’s features while expanding their global reach and security options.

Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Toronto, Canada, TunnelBear has made a name for themselves as a user-friendly VPN provider focused on privacy and accessibility. With a clean, intuitive design, they offer secure browsing via AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring users’ data remains private. TunnelBear’s global server network spans 45+ countries, making it easy to access worldwide content, while unique features like GhostBear help users bypass heavy censorship and internet restrictions in regions with strict data policies. The VPN’s free plan with 2 GB monthly data provides an option for new users to try out the service before committing to a paid plan. Customers generally appreciate TunnelBear’s simplicity, but some note their limited advanced settings and features compared to other VPNs. Nevertheless, TunnelBear’s lighthearted branding and commitment to privacy continue to make them a compelling choice for casual VPN users and those new to the technology. Dive into our full review for a closer look at what makes TunnelBear a standout in the VPN industry.