NetBird vs OpenVPN: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between NetBird and OpenVPN 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:
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.
OpenVPN
Open-source VPN protocol and software
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • OpenVPN is an open-source VPN solution for secure remote access
- • It creates encrypted tunnels for private network connectivity
| At a Glance |  NetBird |  OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Identity & Access | Identity & Access |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | NetBird | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Identity & AccessVPN | Identity & AccessEncryption |
How NetBird and OpenVPN Compare
NetBird
Open Source Zero Trust Networking for secure, peer-to-peer connectivity across any platform.
Free tier available
OpenVPN
Open-source VPN protocol and software
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: NetBird
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenVPN scores 82/100. NetBird is unrated.
Go with: OpenVPN
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: OpenVPN
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 identity & access tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
OpenVPN
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
NetBird
The Bottom Line
OpenVPN (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NetBird or OpenVPN better?
OpenVPN scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are NetBird and OpenVPN used for?
NetBird: Open Source Zero Trust Networking for secure, peer-to-peer connectivity across any platform.. OpenVPN: Open-source VPN protocol and software.
What does NetBird cost vs OpenVPN?
NetBird is freemium (free tier + paid plans). OpenVPN is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.