Headscale vs NetBird: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Headscale and NetBird comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Headscale
Self-hosted Tailscale control server
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • Headscale is an open-source implementation of the Tailscale control server
- • It enables self-hosted VPN mesh networking with WireGuard for privacy-conscious users
NetBird
Open Source Zero Trust Networking for secure, peer-to-peer connectivity across any platform.
Best for you if:
- • Provides open-source, WireGuard-based Zero Trust Network Access.
- • Replaces legacy VPNs with peer-to-peer connectivity and simplifies network management.
| At a Glance |  Headscale |  NetBird |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Identity & Access | Identity & Access |
Rating | 84/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Headscale | NetBird |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Identity & AccessEncryption | Identity & AccessVPN |
How Headscale and NetBird Compare
Headscale
Self-hosted Tailscale control server
Free · 84/100 score
NetBird
Open Source Zero Trust Networking for secure, peer-to-peer connectivity across any platform.
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Headscale is free. NetBird is freemium.
Go with: Headscale
Want the highest-rated option?
Headscale scores 84/100. NetBird is unrated.
Go with: Headscale
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Headscale
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Headscale is free. NetBird is freemium. Go with Headscale if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are identity & access tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Headscale
- Higher score: 84/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
NetBird
The Bottom Line
Headscale (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Headscale or NetBird better?
Headscale scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Headscale is free and NetBird is freemium.
What are Headscale and NetBird used for?
Headscale: Self-hosted Tailscale control server. NetBird: Open Source Zero Trust Networking for secure, peer-to-peer connectivity across any platform..
What does Headscale cost vs NetBird?
Headscale is completely free. NetBird is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.