Nebula vs Zerotier: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Nebula and Zerotier 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:
Nebula
Scalable overlay networking tool
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need identity & access features specifically
- • Nebula is an open-source overlay networking tool for secure connectivity
- • It creates encrypted mesh networks between hosts across any infrastructure
Zerotier
Software-defined networking platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need infrastructure as code features specifically
- • ZeroTier is a software-defined networking tool for virtual networks
- • It creates secure, private networks connecting devices anywhere
| At a Glance |  Nebula |  Zerotier |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Identity & Access | Infrastructure as Code |
Rating | 82/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Nebula | Zerotier |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Identity & AccessEncryption | Infrastructure as CodeVPN |
How Nebula and Zerotier Compare
Nebula
Scalable overlay networking tool
Free · 82/100 score
Zerotier
Software-defined networking platform
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Nebula is a identity & access tool. Zerotier is in infrastructure as code.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Nebula is free. Zerotier is freemium.
Go with: Nebula
Want the highest-rated option?
Nebula: 82/100. Zerotier: 85/100.
Go with: Zerotier
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Zerotier
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Nebula is free. Zerotier is freemium. Go with Nebula if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Nebula is a identity & access tool. Zerotier is in infrastructure as code. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Zerotier scores higher: 85/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Zerotier
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Nebula
- Completely free
- Better fit for identity & access
The Bottom Line
Zerotier (85/100) is our pick. That said, Nebula is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nebula or Zerotier better?
Zerotier scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Nebula is free and Zerotier is freemium.
What are Nebula and Zerotier used for?
Nebula: Scalable overlay networking tool. Zerotier: Software-defined networking platform.
What does Nebula cost vs Zerotier?
Nebula is completely free. Zerotier is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.