Choosing the right VPN can feel like trying to pick out a car when you don’t know how to drive.
It’s confusing!
Two popular options you might have come across are ExpressVPN and Tailscale.
Both help you stay private online, but they work in very different ways.
In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between ExpressVPN vs Tailscale, helping you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, we’ve spent weeks testing both ExpressVPN and Tailscale.
We’ve evaluated their features, ease of use, security protocols, and overall performance to help you make an informed decision.
Ready to experience Express VPN without limits? Enjoy blazing-fast speeds, top-notch security, and access to your favorite content.
Pricing: 30-day money-back guarantee. Plan Starts at $4.99/month
Key Features:
- Blazing-fast speeds
- Strong security features
- Easy-to-use apps
Want a simpler, more secure way to connect your devices? Tailscale is easy to set up and offers awesome performance.
Pricing: Free plan is available. Plan Starts at $5/month
Key Features:
- WireGuard protocol,
- mesh networking,
- access controls.
What is ExpressVPN?
Now, let’s talk about ExpressVPN. This one’s a real speed demon!
They’re known for having super-fast connections, perfect for streaming or downloading large files.
They also have servers in 94 countries, so you have many options for finding a server that meets your needs.
And don’t even get me started on their security features. They’re top-notch!
Experience the internet without limits. ExpressVPN offers a blazing-fast, secure, and private online experience with 94 country locations and a no-logs policy.
Key Benefits
- Blazing-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming and downloading.
- Extensive server network: Connect to servers in 94 countries.
- Best-in-class security: Features include AES-256 encryption and a kill switch.
- User-friendly apps: Easy to set up and use on all your devices.
Pricing
1 month: $12.95/month.
2 Years + 4 Months Free: $4.99/month.
12 months + 3 Months: $6.67/month.
Pros
Cons
What is Tailscale?
Imagine accessing your home computer files from your phone anywhere in the world—that’s what Tailscale does!
It creates a secure network between your devices, like a private internet just for you.
Think of it as a modern, super easy way to set up a VPN. But instead of connecting to random servers, you’re connecting directly to your own devices.
This makes it perfect for accessing files, sharing printers, or playing games with friends.
Streamline your network access and enhance security with Tailscale. Begin a free trial today and explore the seamless connectivity and advanced features that Tailscale provides.
Key Benefits
- Simple setup: Get started in minutes; no complex configurations needed.
- Strong security: Uses the WireGuard protocol for robust encryption.
- Mesh networking: Devices connect directly to each other for faster speeds.
- Access controls: Control who has access to what is on your network.
- Works everywhere: Connect devices across different networks and locations.
Pricing
Tailscale is surprisingly affordable, and they even have a free plan!
- Personal: $0 for limited 3 users
- Personal Plus: $5 per limited 6 users
- Starter: $6 Unlimited Users
Pros
Cons
Feature Comparison
To help you quickly grasp the key differences, here’s a concise comparison of ExpressVPN and Tailscale:
VPN Protocol
- ExpressVPN: Employs a variety of VPN protocols, including its own Lightway protocol, along with the OpenVPN protocol and IKEv2. These are known for their speed and reliability as a reliable VPN.
- Tailscale: Utilizes the WireGuard VPN protocol, known for its speed and reliability.
Encryption
- ExpressVPN: Secures your internet traffic with robust end-to-end encryption. This ensures your network traffic remains private and no one can inspect your traffic.
- Tailscale: Similarly, employs end-to-end encryption to safeguard your data privacy and ensure your traffic is encrypted.
Network Architecture
- ExpressVPN: Operates as a traditional VPN service with a network of VPN servers in multiple server locations, allowing you to mask your IP address and choose an exit node. This is how most commercial VPNs operate, allowing you to have a VPN to go.
- Tailscale: Functions as a mesh VPN, connecting devices directly for efficient communication within your own Tailscale network. Tailscale is built on the concept of a peer-to-peer network. This means that devices on a Tailscale network connect directly to each other, rather than going through a central server. Tailscale also uses a public key infrastructure for authentication, which is more secure than traditional password-based authentication.
Device Compatibility
- ExpressVPN: Supports a wide range of devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers.
- Tailscale: Offers compatibility with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and Synology NAS.
Streaming and Torrenting
- ExpressVPN: Excels at unblocking streaming services like BBC iPlayer and Netflix. It also allows torrenting on many of its servers. This makes it a popular choice for users who want access to different streaming content or engage in peer-to-peer file sharing.
- Tailscale: Not designed for unblocking streaming services or torrenting. Its focus is on secure connections within your network. If you use Tailscale, you won’t be able to easily access geo-blocked content or download torrents.
Security Features
- ExpressVPN: Includes a no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch for enhanced security. ExpressVPN supports a variety of security features that are important for protecting your data privacy. For example, ExpressVPN’s no-logs policy means that the company does not keep any records of your online activity. This is important because it means that your data cannot be shared with third parties, even if they are requested to do so by the government.
- Tailscale: Provides strong encryption, authentication using your identity provider, and role-based access controls. Tailscale provides a high level of security by using the WireGuard protocol and a public key infrastructure. Tailscale also allows you to define role-based access controls, which can be used to restrict access to certain devices or resources on your network.
Access Control
- ExpressVPN: Allows you to connect a limited number of devices simultaneously and configure split tunneling.
- Tailscale: Offers granular control with role-based access controls and security policies to manage network access. Tailscale also integrates with popular identity providers like Okta and Azure AD, making it easy to manage access for your users.
I’ve tried to incorporate the keywords naturally while keeping the information clear and concise.
Let me know if you have any other requests!
What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?
- Consider your needs: Why do you need a VPN? Is it for streaming, torrenting, online gaming, or simply enhancing your online privacy? Different VPNs excel in other areas.
- Check for advanced features. Look for features like split tunneling (routing some of your traffic through the VPN and the rest through your regular internet connection), a kill switch (cutting your internet connection if the VPN drops), and obfuscation (disguises your VPN traffic as regular internet traffic).
- Read independent reviews: Don’t rely on the VPN provider’s website. Check out reviews from reputable sources like PCMag, TechRadar, and CNET to get an unbiased opinion.
- Pay attention to customer support. A good VPN provider should offer responsive and helpful customer support if you encounter any issues.
- Consider a more extended subscription plan, as it often provides significant savings compared to monthly plans.
Final Verdict (Our Pick)
For most users seeking a virtual private network to enhance their online privacy and security, ExpressVPN emerges as the clear winner in this ExpressVPN vs Tailscale showdown.
Its user-friendly interface, extensive server network in various geographic locations.
And robust security features like a no-logs policy and DNS leak protection make it a reliable choice.
ExpressVPN also excels at unblocking streaming services and offers broader device compatibility.
However, if your primary goal is to create secure end-to-end encrypted connections between devices within your own private networks.
Tailscale’s mesh VPN architecture, coupled with features like role-based access controls and integration with SSO providers.
Makes it ideal for establishing secure connections within a specific subnet.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tailscale a good VPN?
While not a traditional VPN like ExpressVPN, Tailscale excels at creating secure, private networks for accessing devices and resources. It’s a great choice for remote work, accessing home files, or gaming with friends.
Is Tailscale better than ExpressVPN?
It depends on your needs. ExpressVPN is better for accessing geo-blocked content and online anonymity, while Tailscale is better for secure connections within a private network.
Can I use Tailscale and ExpressVPN together?
Yes, you can use both simultaneously. This can offer the benefits of both services, such as secure remote access with Tailscale and geo-unblocking with ExpressVPN.
How does Tailscale compare to NordVPN?
NordVPN, like ExpressVPN, is a commercial VPN focused on bypassing geo-restrictions and online privacy. Tailscale, on the other hand, prioritizes secure connections within a private network.
Is Tailscale really free?
Tailscale offers a free plan for personal use with limited features. However, for advanced functionality and business use, you’ll need to subscribe to a paid plan.
