NetBird vs Netmaker: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between NetBird 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. Our overall VPN pick is Proton VPN. Our free VPN pick is Brave. Pick NetBird if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
NetBird
Secure, self-configuring overlay network with Zero Trust access
Best for you if:
- • You want eliminates complex VPN gateways and firewall configurations
- • You want offers granular network segmentation and access control
Netmaker
WireGuard network management platform
Best for you if:
- • You want open source VPN
- • You want wireGuard based
| At a Glance | NetBird | Netmaker |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | VPN | VPN |
Rating | - | - |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose NetBird or Netmaker?
Choose NetBird if
Secure, self-configuring overlay network with Zero Trust access
- You want eliminates complex VPN gateways and firewall configurations
- You want offers granular network segmentation and access control
Choose Netmaker if
WireGuard network management platform
- You want open source VPN
- You want wireGuard based
| Feature | NetBird | Netmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Categories | VPNSecurity | VPNInfrastructure as Code |
In-Depth Analysis
NetBird
Secure, self-configuring overlay network with Zero Trust access
NetBird's pricing is quite fair, especially with a generous Free tier supporting up to 5 users and 100 machines.
Watch out
Additional machines cost $0.50/month in paid tiers
Strengths
- +Eliminates complex VPN gateways and firewall configurations
- +Offers granular network segmentation and access control
- +Integrates with existing Identity Providers for SSO and MFA
- +Supports dynamic device posture checks for enhanced security
- +Provides a unified platform for managing diverse network resources
Weaknesses
- -Advanced features like MDM/EDR controls and SIEM streaming are only available in higher-tier plans
- -Requires some technical understanding for on-premise deployment and custom integrations
- -The free tier is limited to 5 users and 100 machines
Key features
Netmaker
WireGuard network management platform
Netmaker offers a generous free Community tier for self-hosters, providing unlimited usage for core networking.
Strengths
- +Open source VPN
- +WireGuard based
- +Self-hostable
- +Good UI
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Setup complexity
- -Documentation improving
- -Smaller community
- -Tailscale alternative
Key features
Pricing: NetBird vs Netmaker
| Plan | NetBird | Netmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0user / month Free | Free Community |
| Tier 2 | $5user / month Team | $38 month Team |
| Tier 3 | $10user / month Business | custom Professional |
| Tier 4 | Custom Enterprise | custom Business |
| Tier 5 | N/A | custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on NetBird pricing and Netmaker pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: NetBird
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call on ratings — compare on features and pricing.
Value user reviews?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call — neither has ratings yet.
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are vpn tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Netmaker
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
NetBird
- Choose if you want secure, self-configuring overlay network with Zero Trust access
The Bottom Line
Netmaker wins this matchup. Our overall VPN pick is Proton VPN. Our free VPN pick is Brave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NetBird or Netmaker better?
Netmaker is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are NetBird and Netmaker used for?
NetBird: Secure, self-configuring overlay network with Zero Trust access. Netmaker: WireGuard network management platform.
What does NetBird cost vs Netmaker?
NetBird is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Netmaker is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.