📊 Our Test Results:
- 🌐 Servernetzwerk: PIA 35,000+ servers in 91 countries vs TunnelBear 47 countries — PIA wins
- ⚡ Download Speed: PIA kept 51% of base speed vs TunnelBear kept 40% — PIA wins
- 🔒 Datenschutz Prüfung: PIA Deloitte-verified no-logs vs TunnelBear Cure53 audits — PIA wins
- 📺 Streaming-Zugriff: PIA unblocks Netflix & Disney+ vs TunnelBear fails most — PIA wins
- 🐻 Benutzerfreundlichkeit: TunnelBear map-based interface vs PIA text-heavy layout — TunnelBear wins
Die richtige Wahl treffen VPN feels overwhelming. Dozens of choices. Confusing tech specs. Prices all over the place.
Two popular options keep coming up: Private Internet Access (PIA) and TunnelBear.
PIA is the power-user favorite with 35,000+ servers. TunnelBear is the beginner-friendly pick with a cute bear mascot.
But which one actually protects your data better? Which one is worth your money?
I tested both Private Internet Access vs TunnelBear side by side for four weeks. Here’s everything you need to know.
Überblick
I signed up for both PIA and TunnelBear paid plans. I ran speed tests on servers across 10 countries.
I checked for DNS leaks. I tested streaming on Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.
I also tested split tunneling, kill switches, and mobile app performance on iOS and Android.
This hands-on testing gave me a clear picture of which VPN deserves your money.
Was ist privater Internetzugang?
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a VPN service based in Denver, Colorado. It has been around for over a decade.
PIA runs 35,000+ servers across 91 countries. That’s one of the biggest server networks in the VPN industry.
Every PIA app is open-source. Anyone can inspect the code for hidden tracking or backdoors.
PIA also includes a built-in ad blocker called MACE. It blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level.
Privater Internetzugang
A veteran VPN with 35,000+ servers, open-source apps, and a Deloitte-verified no-logs policy. PIA gives power users full control over encryption settings, split tunneling, and kill switch options.
Private Internet Access Pricing
PIA keeps pricing simple. One plan tier with all features unlocked. You just pick your billing cycle.
| Planen | Preis | Am besten geeignet für |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Years + 4 Months | 2,03 €/Monat | Best value for long-term users |
| 6 Monate | 7,50 €/Monat | Mid-term commitment |
| 1 Monat | 11,99 $/Monat | Short-term or testing |
Kostenlose Testversion: 7-day free trial on iOS and Android. No free trial on desktop.
Geld-zurück-Garantie: 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. No questions asked.
📌 Notiz: PIA does not raise renewal prices on long-term plans. That’s rare in the VPN industry. Every feature is included on every plan.
⚠️ Warning: The mobile free trial auto-renews. Turn off auto-renewal within 24 hours if you don’t want to keep paying.
Key Benefits of Private Internet Access
Here’s why PIA stands out from the competition:
- Massives Servernetzwerk: 35,000+ servers across 91 countries. That includes servers in all 50 US states for local access.
- Proven No-Logs Policy: Deloitte audited PIA’s servers and confirmed zero user data is stored. PIA also publishes quarterly transparency reports.
- Open-Source Apps: All PIA apps are open-source. Anyone can review the code. This is rare among VPN providers.
- Unbegrenzte Verbindungen: Connect every device you own. No cap on simultaneous connections.
- Built-In Ad Blocker: MACE blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites at the DNS level. It works on all connected devices.
- Advanced Split Tunneling: Choose which apps, IP addresses, and DNS requests go through the VPN. Power users love this level of control.
- Multi-Hop Connections: Route your traffic through two VPN servers for extra privacy when you need it most.
Private Internet Access Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 35,000+ servers in 91 countries with all 50 US states covered
- Deloitte-verified no-logs policy with quarterly transparency reports
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections on one account
- Open-source apps you can inspect for full transparency
- Built-in MACE ad and tracker blocker at DNS level
❌ Cons
- Based in the US (Five Eyes alliance country)
- Average download speed loss of about 49%
- Inconsistent streaming unblocking on some platforms
- No free plan available (only 7-day mobile trial)
Was ist TunnelBear?
TunnelBear is a VPN service based in Toronto, Canada. McAfee bought the company in 2018.
TunnelBear is known for its playful bear-themed design. A cartoon bear digs a tunnel on your screen when you connect.
The app is super simple to use. Pick a country on the map and tap connect. That’s it.
TunnelBear also offers a free plan with 2GB of data per month. It’s great for quick testing.
TunnelBear
A beginner-friendly VPN with a fun bear-themed interface. TunnelBear offers a free plan, Cure53 security audits, and AES-256 encryption. Great for VPN newbies who want simple privacy protection.
TunnelBear-Preise
TunnelBear has a free plan and two paid options. Here’s the breakdown.
| Planen | Preis | Am besten geeignet für |
|---|---|---|
| Frei | Free Testing and Limited usage | Quick testing with 2GB/month |
| Unbegrenzt | $3.33/mo | Individual users wanting full access |
| Teams | $5.75/user per month | Businesses needing centralized billing |
Kostenlose Testversion: Yes. Free plan with 2GB per month. No credit card required to sign up.
Geld-zurück-Garantie: No. TunnelBear does not offer refunds on paid subscriptions.
📌 Notiz: The $3.33/month Unlimited plan requires an annual commitment. Monthly billing costs $9.99/month. The annual plan auto-renews at $59.88/year after the first year.
⚠️ Warning: TunnelBear has no money-back guarantee. Once you pay, you cannot get a refund. Test with the free plan first.
Key Benefits of TunnelBear
Here’s why TunnelBear appeals to beginners:
- Kostenloser Tarif verfügbar: Get 2GB of data per month with no credit card required. It’s enough to test the service before buying.
- Dead-Simple Interface: A world map with bear animations makes connecting fun. Even your grandma can use it.
- Regelmäßige Sicherheitsüberprüfungen: Cure53 has audited TunnelBear multiple times since 2016. Results are published for anyone to read.
- GhostBear Obfuscation: This feature hides your VPN traffic to bypass censorship in restrictive countries.
- Protokollierungsverbot: TunnelBear does not log IP addresses, DNS queries, or browsing history. Transparency reports confirm zero data shared.
- Unlimited Connections on Paid Plans: Connect all your devices at once on the Unlimited plan.
TunnelBear Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Free plan with 2GB/month and no credit card needed
- Most beginner-friendly VPN app on the market
- Multiple Cure53 security audits with published results
- GhostBear mode for bypassing censorship
❌ Cons
- Only 47 server countries (vs PIA’s 91)
- Slow speeds with 40% download speed retention
- No money-back guarantee on any plan
- Fails to unblock Netflix and most streaming services
- Owned by McAfee (Five Eyes country, Canada)
Funktionsvergleich
Let’s compare Private Internet Access and TunnelBear across 10 key features.
I tested each feature hands-on. Here’s what I found.
| Besonderheit | Privater Internetzugang | TunnelBear |
|---|---|---|
| Startpreis | 2,03 €/Monat | 3,33 €/Monat |
| Kostenloser Plan | ❌ | ✅ (2GB/month) |
| Server Countries | 91 | 47 |
| Server Count | 35,000+ | 5,000+ |
| Not-Aus-Schalter | ✅ (Regular + Advanced) | ✅ (VigilantBear) |
| Split-Tunneling | ✅ (Apps + IPs + DNS) | ✅ (SplitBear) |
| Open-Source Apps | ✅ | ❌ |
| Werbeblocker | ✅ (MACE) | ❌ |
| Multi-Hop | ✅ | ❌ |
| Am besten geeignet für | Power users & privacy | Beginners & simplicity |
1. Servernetzwerk
Privater Internetzugang: PIA runs 35,000+ servers in 91 countries. It covers all 50 US states. That’s one of the largest networks in the VPN industry. More servers means less crowding and faster connections.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear has servers in only 47 countries. The exact server count isn’t published, but it’s around 5,000. That’s a much smaller network. Fewer server options means fewer choices for getting fast connections.
2. Connection Speed
Privater Internetzugang: PIA retained about 51% of my base download speed. It’s not the fastest VPN. But it handles streaming, browsing, and gaming just fine for most users.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear kept only about 40% of my base speed. Distant servers were even slower. The GhostBear feature drops speeds even further. TunnelBear is not a good choice for speed-sensitive tasks.
⚠️ Warning: Both VPNs lose significant speed. If raw speed is your top priority, consider NordVPN or Surfshark instead.
3. Privacy & No-Logs Policy
Privater Internetzugang: PIA has a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte. It collects only your email and payment info. PIA publishes quarterly transparency reports and uses RAM-only servers that wipe data on every reboot.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear has a no-logging policy audited by Cure53 since 2016. It collects OS version, app version, and total monthly data usage. None of this data can identify you. Transparency reports confirm zero data shared with authorities.
4. Encryption & Security
Privater Internetzugang: PIA offers AES-256 encryption with OpenVPN and ChaCha20 with WireGuard. You can customize encryption levels for speed or security. The app also supports Shadowsocks and SOCKS5 proxy.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear uses AES-256 encryption. It supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols. You can’t customize encryption settings. TunnelBear keeps things simple but gives you less control.
5. Not-Aus-Schalter
Privater Internetzugang: PIA has two kill switches. A regular kill switch stops internet if the VPN drops. An advanced kill switch blocks all non-VPN traffic at all times. You can even set app-specific kill switches.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear has VigilantBear. It blocks all traffic if your VPN connection drops. It works well but offers no advanced options. You can’t set it per-app like PIA.
6. Split-Tunnelbau
Privater Internetzugang: PIA has the most advanced split tunneling I’ve tested. You can exclude specific apps, IP addresses, and DNS requests from the VPN. Power users can fine-tune exactly what goes through the tunnel.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear has SplitBear. It lets you choose which apps use the VPN. But you can’t exclude specific IP addresses or DNS requests. It’s basic but gets the job done for most people.
7. Streaming & Unblocking
Privater Internetzugang: PIA has streaming-specific servers that unblock Netflix, Disney+, and other services. It doesn’t work every time. But PIA unblocks more platforms than TunnelBear overall.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear struggles with most major streaming services. Netflix often shows proxy errors. Amazon Prime and Hulu are usually blocked. TunnelBear only reliably unblocks Peacock and Max.
⚠️ Warning: Neither VPN is a top streaming pick. If streaming is your main need, NordVPN or ExpressVPN are better choices.
8. Benutzerfreundlichkeit
Privater Internetzugang: PIA has a clean interface. But it’s packed with settings and options. New users might feel overwhelmed by all the choices. The app is designed for people who want control.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear wins here hands down. The bear-themed map interface is fun and dead simple. Tap a country. Watch the bear dig a tunnel. You’re connected. Even first-time VPN users will feel comfortable.
9. Kundensupport
Privater Internetzugang: PIA offers 24/7 live chat and email support. Response times are fast. The support team can handle technical issues and account questions. PIA also has a large knowledge base.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear only offers email support through a web form. No live chat. Response times can be slow. The FAQ section is helpful for basic questions. But don’t expect fast help with complex issues.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Planart | Privater Internetzugang | TunnelBear |
|---|---|---|
| Frei | ❌ (7-day mobile trial) | ✅ (2GB/month) |
| Monatlich | 11,99 $/Monat | 9,99 $/Monat |
| Jährlich | $7.50/month (6-mo plan) | 3,33 €/Monat |
| Long-Term | $2.03/month (2yr+4mo) | $3.33/month (annual) |
| Business/Teams | ❌ | $5.75/user per month |
Privater Internetzugang: PIA’s long-term plan is cheaper at $2.03/month. You get unlimited connections, all features, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. The monthly price of $11.99 is steep though.
TunnelBear: TunnelBear’s annual plan costs $3.33/month. That’s $1.30 more per month than PIA’s best deal. The free plan is a nice perk. But no money-back guarantee means more risk if you go paid.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Cheapest long-term price | PIA | $2.03/mo vs $3.33/mo |
| Free VPN to test | TunnelBear | 2GB/month free plan |
| Most servers worldwide | PIA | 91 countries vs 47 |
| Easiest app for beginners | TunnelBear | Map interface is simpler |
| Streaming unblocking | PIA | Works with Netflix & Disney+ |
| Open-source transparency | PIA | All apps are open-source |
| Business/team VPN | TunnelBear | Teams plan with admin tools |
💰 Your Budget
PIA wins on long-term value at $2.03/month. TunnelBear wins if you want to test for free first. PIA also has a 30-day money-back guarantee that TunnelBear lacks.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
PIA works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and routers. TunnelBear does not support Linux or routers. If you need VPN coverage on every device type, PIA is the only choice.
📝 Your Privacy Needs
Both VPNs have verified no-logs policies. PIA edges ahead with open-source apps, Deloitte audits, and RAM-only servers. Choose PIA if privacy is your top priority.
🎓 Your Experience Level
TunnelBear is the most beginner-friendly VPN on the market. If you’ve never used a VPN before, start here. PIA is better for tech-savvy users who want full control.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
TunnelBear has a free plan with 2GB per month. PIA offers a 7-day mobile trial. Try TunnelBear free first. Then test PIA with the 30-day money-back guarantee.
🛟 Support Options
PIA has 24/7 live chat support. TunnelBear only has email support with slow response times. If you need quick help, PIA is the clear winner.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these VPNs? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Private Internet Access to TunnelBear?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- A free plan to test before committing money
- A simpler, more fun interface with bear animations
- GhostBear obfuscation for censorship-heavy countries
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 35,000+ servers (down to ~5,000 in fewer countries)
- Open-source apps and Deloitte-verified privacy
- MACE ad blocker, multi-hop, and advanced split tunneling
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your PIA subscription and request a refund within 30 days
- Download TunnelBear and sign up for the free plan
- Test with the free 2GB. Upgrade to Unlimited if you’re satisfied
🔄 Switching from TunnelBear to Private Internet Access?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- 35,000+ servers across 91 countries including all 50 US states
- Open-source apps, MACE ad blocker, and multi-hop connections
- 24/7 live chat support and a 30-day money-back guarantee
❌ What you’ll lose:
- The free plan (PIA has no free tier)
- The fun bear-themed map interface
- GhostBear obfuscation mode for censored networks
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your TunnelBear subscription (no refund available)
- Sign up for PIA and choose the 2-year plan for best value
- Download PIA apps on all your devices and connect
Endgültiges Urteil
| Kategorie | Gewinner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing (Long-Term) | Privater Internetzugang |
| 🌐 Server Network | Privater Internetzugang |
| ⚡ Speed | Privater Internetzugang |
| 🔒 Privacy & Security | Privater Internetzugang |
| 👶 Ease of Use | TunnelBear |
| 📺 Streaming | Privater Internetzugang |
| 🛟 Customer Support | Privater Internetzugang |
| 🆓 Free Plan | TunnelBear |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Privater Internetzugang |
🏆 WINNER: Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access wins 6 out of 8 categories.
Best for: Privacy-focused users, power users, streamers, and anyone who wants the most VPN for their money.
Private Internet Access and TunnelBear serve different types of users.
PIA is the serious privacy tool. Open-source apps. Deloitte-audited no-logs policy. 35,000 servers. Advanced controls.
TunnelBear is the friendly starter VPN. Free plan. Fun design. Simple app. Great for beginners.
TunnelBear is excellent if you’ve never used a VPN before. It makes privacy feel less scary.
But if you want real protection, more servers, better streaming, and stronger value, PIA is the better choice.
Now, go secure your internet connection and durchsuchen with confidence!
More of Private Internet Access Compared
Here’s how Private Internet Access stacks up against other competitors:
Private Internet Access vs. NordVPN
PIA wins on: Price, open-source apps, unlimited connections
NordVPN wins on: Speed, streaming unblocking, Threat Protection
Private Internet Access vs. ExpressVPN
PIA wins on: Price, server count, device connections
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, router app
Privater Internetzugang vs. PureVPN
PIA wins on: No-logs audit, open-source apps, server count
PureVPN wins on: Dedicated IP options, port forwarding
Private Internet Access vs Surfshark VPN
PIA wins on: Server count, transparency reports, open-source code
Surfshark wins on: Speed, CleanWeb blocker, Rotating IP
Private Internet Access vs. ProtonVPN
PIA wins on: Server count, price, customization options
ProtonVPN wins on: Swiss privacy laws, Secure Core, free plan
Privater Internetzugang vs. PrivadoVPN
PIA wins on: Server network, audit history, app maturity
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan data, Swiss jurisdiction
Privater Internetzugang vs. AdGuard VPN
PIA wins on: Server count, no-logs verification, features
AdGuard wins on: Ad blocking integration, lightweight app
Privater Internetzugang vs. Virtueller Schild
PIA wins on: Server count, price, feature depth
Virtual Shield wins on: US-focused simplicity, customer support
Privater Internetzugang vs. StrongVPN
PIA wins on: Server network, price, open-source apps
StrongVPN wins on: Streaming reliability, WireGuard speed
Privater Internetzugang vs. FastestVPN
PIA wins on: Server count, audit verification, features
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan pricing
Private Internet Access vs Aura VPN
PIA wins on: Server count, privacy credentials, price
Aura VPN wins on: Identity theft protection bundle
Privater Internetzugang vs. CyberGhost
PIA wins on: Open-source apps, customization, price
CyberGhost wins on: Streaming servers, 45-day refund
Private Internet Access vs McAfee VPN
PIA wins on: Server count, no-logs audit, VPN features
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, identity monitoring
Privater Internetzugang vs. Mysterium VPN
PIA wins on: Speed, reliability, customer support
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
Private Internet Access vs SafeShell VPN
PIA wins on: Server network, audit history, brand trust
SafeShell wins on: China-focused unblocking
Private Internet Access vs Oyster VPN
PIA wins on: Server count, features, price, audit history
Oyster VPN wins on: Simplicity for basic users
More of TunnelBear Compared
Here’s how TunnelBear stacks up against other competitors:
TunnelBear wins on: Free plan, beginner-friendly app
NordVPN wins on: Speed, servers, streaming, features
TunnelBear wins on: Free plan, price, ease of use
ExpressVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, router support
TunnelBear wins on: Free plan, security audits, simplicity
PureVPN wins on: Server count, streaming, dedicated IP
TunnelBear wins on: Free plan, beginner interface
Surfshark wins on: Speed, servers, streaming, price
TunnelBear wins on: Fun interface, GhostBear obfuscation
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan (unlimited data), Swiss laws
TunnelBear vs AdGuard VPN
TunnelBear wins on: Security audits, brand reputation
AdGuard wins on: Ad blocking, lightweight app
TunnelBear vs Virtual Shield
TunnelBear wins on: Free plan, security audits, global reach
Virtual Shield wins on: US server speed, simplicity
TunnelBear vs StrongVPN
TunnelBear wins on: Free plan, beginner interface
StrongVPN wins on: Speed, streaming, WireGuard support
TunnelBear vs FastestVPN
TunnelBear wins on: Security audits, free plan, transparency
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan, speed
TunnelBear vs Aura VPN
TunnelBear wins on: Free plan, audit history, simplicity
Aura VPN wins on: Identity protection bundle
TunnelBear vs CyberGhost
TunnelBear wins on: Free plan, beginner interface
CyberGhost wins on: Server count, streaming, 45-day refund
TunnelBear vs McAfee VPN
TunnelBear wins on: Independent audit history, free plan
McAfee VPN wins on: Antivirus bundle, identity tools
TunnelBear gegen Mysterium VPN
TunnelBear wins on: Ease of use, security audits, reliability
Mysterium wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use
TunnelBear vs SafeShell VPN
TunnelBear wins on: Brand trust, security audits, free plan
SafeShell wins on: China-focused access
TunnelBear vs Oyster VPN
TunnelBear wins on: Free plan, security audits, brand trust
Oyster VPN wins on: Server access options
Häufig gestellte Fragen
Is Private Internet Access safe?
Yes. PIA has a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte. All apps are open-source. PIA uses AES-256 encryption and publishes quarterly transparency reports.
Is TunnelBear really free?
Yes. TunnelBear offers a free plan with 2GB of data per month. No credit card is required. But 2GB runs out fast. Most users will need the paid Unlimited plan.
Is TunnelBear blocked by Netflix?
Yes, in most cases. TunnelBear fails to unblock Netflix consistently. It often returns proxy errors. PIA has better streaming support with dedicated servers.
How much does PIA VPN cost per month?
PIA costs $11.99 on a monthly plan. The best deal is the 2-year plan at $2.03/month. The 6-month plan costs $7.50/month. All plans include every feature.
Which VPN is better than TunnelBear?
Private Internet Access is better than TunnelBear for most users. PIA has more servers, faster speeds, better streaming, and stronger privacy tools. TunnelBear is only better for absolute beginners.
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