Side by side
Algo VPN vs Headscale
Both stand on virtual private network software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+3
Algo provides scripts and client setup materials for a self-managed personal VPN. Its deployment cautions, protocol exclusions, and privacy limits are important to weigh before use.
Visit Algo VPN Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+4
Choose Headscale if you want a free, self-hosted control server for a personal or small-organisation tailnet, with network tools and API interfaces. Look elsewhere if you need enterprise-oriented scaling or an officially supported Docker deployment.
Visit HeadscaleThe facts
| Algo VPN | Headscale | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Algo VPN | Not published |
| Website | github.com | headscale.net |
| On virtual private network software | #6 of 54 | #10 of 54 |
Algo VPN: what it does well
- Free, open-source setup scripts
- Supports WireGuard and IKEv2
- Helper scripts manage VPN users
- Logs rotate and delete after seven days
What to know first
- Cloud infrastructure costs are separate
- Cloud providers may see traffic metadata
- No uninstall option for local installation
- Does not claim anonymity or censorship avoidance
Headscale: what it does well
- Free, open-source, and self-hosted.
- Supports IPv4, IPv6, subnet routers, and exit nodes.
- Includes ACLs, API-based ACL management, and Tailscale SSH.
- Offers REST and gRPC interfaces for integrations and remote control.
- Supports a broad range of client operating systems.
What to know first
- Designed for one tailnet and personal or small-organisation use.
- Docker deployments are not officially supported.
- OIDC groups cannot be used in ACLs.
- Many nodes with frequent network changes can strain performance.
Alternatives to Algo VPN Alternatives to Headscale The whole list