It’s extremely difficult to get on to the Netflix bandwagon, especially the US Netflix library, let alone by using a free VPN. But, what about TunnelBear? Does TunnelBear unblock Netflix from anywhere in the world?
TunnelBear has a great free app compared to most free VPN services, but is it a match for a platform like Netflix?
In my TunnelBear review, I ran a few tests and turns out that this provider did unblock the US library, but failed to unblock the UK one.
There are many issues when it comes to unblocking services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer, and equally as many issues when it comes to choosing the right VPN to help unblock these services.
In the case of TunnelBear, there are times when the service works great with Netflix, and other times where multiple users have failed to unblock it. Against all these odds, TunnelBear is still one of the greater free VPN apps as compared to many.
Can TunnelBear unblock Netflix?
Sadly no, if you’re planning on using TunnelBear for Netflix, it might not work.
The thing is, TunnelBear offers servers in only 26 countries. That’s way smaller coverage than other bigger VPN providers, and below the average requirement for accessing Netflix.
Netflix is super strict and precise when tracking down unauthorized IP addresses, from accessing its services through VPN connectivity.
It wouldn’t take Netflix long to track down addresses provided by TunnelBear.
Even though I managed to unblock the US Netflix library using TunnelBear, during the testing period, it took me a while to find the best server.
Plus, the results often change. For instance, I run regular tests and it so happens that my latest TunnelBear test didn’t unblock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more, and that’s the downside.
However, you could still go for TunnelBear only if you’re not expecting to unblock all the major streaming services. But, at the same time, you can try out the TunnelBear free app to test it out!
If all else fails, and you’re not willing to invest, simply go for the next best alternative, Surfshark. It’s affordable, fast, helps unblock the best streaming services, and is great for online security.
TunnelBear doesn’t work with Netflix, but try this!
Just in case you haven’t given up on using TunnelBear and would like to try one last time to get it to work with Netflix, there are a number of fixes you can try:
- Restart your VPN – Sometimes the best fixes are the simplest ones. Just sign out, restart, sign in and connect to a server.
- Try accessing Netflix through an Incognito window – There are most situations where we often use an Incognito window to bypass ISP throttling or surveillance. This step could be helpful when trying to access Netflix.
- Make sure you clear your cookies and cache – Leaving residue behind or trails might be a dead giveaway to Netflix blocking tools. If you don’t clear your cookies and cache, it could sometimes leave a leak of your physical location or IP address.
- Use another VPN protocol – The best protocols for streaming with speed and a clear path are often OpenVPN and IKEv2. Make sure you toggle or switch around the protocols from the VPN app’s settings. This could be one of the reasons TunnelBear doesn’t work on Netflix.
- Change the VPN server – At times certain servers are overcrowded or might already be blacklisted by Netflix. Try changing servers.
- Use another VPN – TunnelBear didn’t work for me on Netflix, so why not try going for another more reliable VPN? I’m mentioned some alternatives below.
An alternative to TunnelBear for Netflix
It’s always good to have a backup plan and go through several reviews of the best VPN providers before investing.
Surfshark happens to be one of the best for Netflix and is as good as a free VPN. Its coverage stretches to 3200+ servers spread across 65 countries. These servers are optimized for fast HD streaming and P2P.
Secondly, did you know that Surfshark has managed to unblock 16 Netflix libraries including the US one? Plus, you’re allowed to test it out using its 7 day free trial for iOS and Android, along with a reliable 30-day refund period.
Other TunnelBear alternatives for Netflix
If Surfshark doesn’t fit your liking, you could try 4 other top-performing providers:
FAQS
Can we use a free VPN for Netflix?
It won’t be the best idea. TunnelBear does offer a free app, but if the paid version barely works with Netflix, how would the free one work in comparison? There are a couple of free VPNs for Netflix that do work, mostly because it’s through hacking a free trial over the refund periods. However, Netflix is a tough platform to unblock, so using a free provider might not work.
How do you unblock Netflix?
- First, subscribe to the VPN by creating an account and choose the best-budgeted plan for you.
- Download the VPN app on a supported device.
- Install and launch the app.
- Sign in to your account
- Now, depending on what Netflix library you’re trying to access, connect to a server according to it. For instance, if you’re trying to access the US library, connect to a US server. If the UK library is what you’re looking for, connect to a UK server.
Unlike TunnelBear, Surfshark happens to unblock both the US, UK, and other libraries, which is why it’s quite popular among users.
What is the best VPN for Netflix?
My top recommendation for the best Netflix VPN will have to be Surfshark. It’s affordable, user-friendly, fast, but it also unblocks most of the Netflix libraries. Surfshark is also great for users living in countries with harsh censorship laws. With its unblocking tools and high-end security, it makes one of the safest VPNs for users looking for online privacy while streaming services like Netflix.
To conclude
TunnelBear makes a great VPN app for multiple purposes, like its functionality in China, the security features it comes with, and its free app for basic use.
However, regardless of its perks using TunnelBear for Netflix isn’t such a great decision. If affordability was your main concern, there are many VPNs that offer free trials. This could be your chance to test them out and expand your options.
For more information on VPNs with affordable prices, take a look at our VPN deals and discount page.
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