NetBird vs Tailscale: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between NetBird and Tailscale 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.
Tailscale
Zero config VPN for teams
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Tailscale is a zero-config VPN that creates secure networks instantly
- • It connects devices using WireGuard with no firewall configuration needed
| At a Glance |  NetBird |  Tailscale |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Identity & Access | Identity & Access |
Rating | —/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | NetBird | Tailscale |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Identity & AccessVPN | Identity & AccessSecurity Monitoring |
How NetBird and Tailscale Compare
NetBird
Open Source Zero Trust Networking for secure, peer-to-peer connectivity across any platform.
Free tier available
Tailscale
Zero config VPN for teams
Free tier available · 89/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: NetBird
Want the highest-rated option?
Tailscale scores 89/100. NetBird is unrated.
Go with: Tailscale
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Tailscale
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
Tailscale
- Higher score: 89/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
NetBird
The Bottom Line
Tailscale (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NetBird or Tailscale better?
Tailscale scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are NetBird and Tailscale used for?
NetBird: Open Source Zero Trust Networking for secure, peer-to-peer connectivity across any platform.. Tailscale: Zero config VPN for teams.
What does NetBird cost vs Tailscale?
NetBird is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Tailscale is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.