OpenFGA vs Tailscale: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OpenFGA 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:
OpenFGA
Fine-grained authorization inspired by Google's Zanzibar, built for scalability and flexibility.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Implements fine-grained authorization inspired by Google's Zanzibar.
- • Supports ReBAC, RBAC, and ABAC with a flexible modeling language.
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 |  OpenFGA |  Tailscale |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Identity & Access | Identity & Access |
Rating | —/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | OpenFGA | Tailscale |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Identity & Access | Identity & AccessSecurity Monitoring |
How OpenFGA and Tailscale Compare
OpenFGA
Fine-grained authorization inspired by Google's Zanzibar, built for scalability and flexibility.
Free
Tailscale
Zero config VPN for teams
Free tier available · 89/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OpenFGA is free. Tailscale is freemium.
Go with: OpenFGA
Want the highest-rated option?
Tailscale scores 89/100. OpenFGA 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?
OpenFGA is free. Tailscale is freemium. Go with OpenFGA if free matters most.
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
OpenFGA
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Tailscale (89/100) is our pick. That said, OpenFGA is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenFGA or Tailscale better?
Tailscale scores 89/100 in our evaluation. OpenFGA is free and Tailscale is freemium.
What are OpenFGA and Tailscale used for?
OpenFGA: Fine-grained authorization inspired by Google's Zanzibar, built for scalability and flexibility.. Tailscale: Zero config VPN for teams.
What does OpenFGA cost vs Tailscale?
OpenFGA is completely free. Tailscale is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.