LocalTunnel vs Netmaker: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between LocalTunnel and Netmaker 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.
Bottom line: Netmaker wins this matchup. Pick LocalTunnel if you need developer tools.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
Based on published vendor pricing and features and on public review data, here's who should pick what:
LocalTunnel
Expose your local web service to the world with a public URL.
Best for you if:
- • You want a fully free tool (Netmaker requires payment)
Netmaker
WireGuard network management platform
Best for you if:
- • You want open source VPN
| At a Glance | LocalTunnel | Netmaker |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free 100% free | Free Free plan |
Category | Developer Tools Hosting & Deployment | VPN Infrastructure as Code |
Rating | n/a | n/a |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose LocalTunnel or Netmaker?
Choose LocalTunnel if
- You want a fully free tool (Netmaker requires payment)
- You want easy to set up and use
- You want no DNS or firewall configuration required
- You work in developer tools, not VPN
Choose Netmaker if
- You want open source VPN
- You want WireGuard based
- You work in VPN, not developer tools
In-Depth Analysis
LocalTunnel
Expose your local web service to the world with a public URL.
LocalTunnel offers a completely free service, which is exceptionally generous compared to any market alternative.
Strengths
- Pro: Easy to set up and use
- Pro: No DNS or firewall configuration required
- Pro: Provides secure HTTPS connections
- Pro: Useful for sharing development progress and testing
- Pro: Supports webhook testing
Weaknesses
- Con: Requires NodeJS for global installation
- Con: Tunnel is active only as long as the local instance runs
- Con: URL is randomly generated and not customizable (based on provided info)
Key features
Netmaker
WireGuard network management platform
Netmaker offers a generous free Community tier for self-hosters, providing unlimited usage for core networking.
Strengths
- Pro: Open source VPN
- Pro: WireGuard based
- Pro: Self-hostable
- Pro: Good UI
- Pro: Active development
Weaknesses
- Con: Learning curve
- Con: Setup complexity
- Con: Documentation improving
- Con: Smaller community
- Con: Tailscale alternative
Key features
Pricing: LocalTunnel vs Netmaker
| Plan | LocalTunnel | Netmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Localtunnel | Free Community |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $38 month Team |
| Tier 3 | N/A | custom Professional |
| Tier 4 | N/A | custom Business |
| Tier 5 | N/A | custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on LocalTunnel pricing and Netmaker pricing.
Key Takeaways
Netmaker
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
LocalTunnel
- Completely free
- Better fit for developer tools
The Bottom Line
Netmaker wins this matchup. That said, LocalTunnel is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LocalTunnel or Netmaker better in 2026?
Netmaker wins this matchup. Pick LocalTunnel for developer tools workflows (main strength: easy to set up and use). Pick Netmaker for VPN workflows (main strength: open source VPN).
What are LocalTunnel and Netmaker used for?
LocalTunnel: Expose your local web service to the world with a public URL. Netmaker: WireGuard network management platform.
What does LocalTunnel cost vs Netmaker?
LocalTunnel is free. Netmaker's paid plans start at Free (Team).
What's the main difference between LocalTunnel and Netmaker?
LocalTunnel's main strength: easy to set up and use. Netmaker's main strength: open source VPN.