Private Internet Access vs TunnelBear
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Configurable VPN with unlimited devices.
A friendly VPN with a free tier.
The verdict
Both Private Internet Access and TunnelBear are credible vpn tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Private Internet Access — Configurable VPN with unlimited devices.
Choose TunnelBear if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $3.33/mo) and a free plan to start on. A friendly VPN with a free tier.
Private Internet Access vs TunnelBear: side by side
| Dimension | Private Internet Access | TunnelBear |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $2/mo | Free – $3.33/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Freemium |
| Best for | Budget Conscious, Power Users | Beginners |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android | Windows, Mac, Ios, Android |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.4/5 |
Private Internet Access key facts
- Vendor
- PIA
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $2/mo
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Budget Conscious, Power Users
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 2010
- Headquarters
- Denver, CO, USA
TunnelBear key facts
- Vendor
- McAfee
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $3.33/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Beginners
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2011
- Headquarters
- Toronto, Canada
Frequently asked questions
Is Private Internet Access better than TunnelBear?
Neither is universally better — TunnelBear edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Private Internet Access or TunnelBear cheaper?
TunnelBear is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $3.33/mo. Private Internet Access starts at from $2/mo; TunnelBear starts at free – $3.33/mo.
Can Private Internet Access replace TunnelBear?
Yes for most teams — both are vpn tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.