Side by side
OpenWrt vs Tailscale
Both stand on business vpn software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source AndroidAPILinux+2
Choose OpenWrt if you want a free Linux system for an embedded device and are comfortable checking compatibility and configuring it. Look elsewhere if you need guaranteed support or your device is at the listed hardware minimums for current, secure use.
Visit OpenWrt
Free plan Open source AndroidAPIExtension+6
Tailscale combines encrypted device connections with access rules, identity provisioning, monitoring, and sharing features. Personal is free for non-commercial use; paid Standard starts at $8 per user per month.
Visit TailscaleThe facts
| OpenWrt | Tailscale | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | Android, API, Linux, Self-hosted, Web | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | See the plans |
| Plans published | 2 | 8 |
| Maker | OpenWrt | Tailscale |
| Website | openwrt.org | tailscale.com |
| On business vpn software | #5 of 94 | #1 of 94 |
OpenWrt: what it does well
- Free software with no subscription or licensing fees.
- Offers more than 27,000 packages and services.
- Writable filesystem and optional package management support customization.
- Configuration is available through a web interface or SSH.
- Table of Hardware helps check device support before installation.
What to know first
- The project recommends GNU/Linux and basic networking knowledge.
- Devices with 8 MB flash and 64 MB RAM are discouraged for secure, current use.
- Development snapshots are generally untested.
- Project support is voluntary and not guaranteed.
Tailscale: what it does well
- WireGuard-based, end-to-end encrypted connections.
- Access control lists govern user-to-device connections.
- File transfer and node sharing are included.
- Supports Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, and Windows.
- Personal plan is free for non-commercial use.
What to know first
- Personal plan is limited to six users.
- Personal use is non-commercial only.
- Additional tagged resources cost $1 a month each.
Alternatives to OpenWrt Alternatives to Tailscale The whole list