Choosing the right VPN can feel like navigating a maze. Do you need a simple solution for accessing work files remotely or a powerful tool to protect your privacy while browsing online?
Two popular options often pop up: PureVPN and Tailscale. But which one fits your needs?
This article compares their features, security, speed, and pricing to help you make the best decision for your online safety and convenience.
PureVPN vs Tailscale Overview
To give you the most accurate comparison, we’ve rigorously tested both PureVPN and Tailscale.
We’ve evaluated their speed, security features, ease of use, and overall performance to help you understand their strengths and weaknesses.
Unlock the internet with PureVPN! 6500+ servers, 70+ countries, blazing-fast speeds. Stream, download, and browse securely.
Pricing: 31-day money-back guarantee. Plan Starts at $12.95/month
Key Features:
- 10,000+ servers,
- AES 256-bit encryption,
- split tunneling.
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 $6/month
Key Features:
- WireGuard protocol,
- mesh networking,
- access controls.
What is PureVPN?
Have you ever heard of a VPN? It’s like a secret tunnel for your internet connection. PureVPN is one of the big names in the VPN world.
They’ve been around for a while, and they’re known for having tons of servers all over the globe.
You can use PureVPN to appear as if browsing from a different country. Pretty cool.
You can use it to watch your favorite shows even when traveling or to access websites that might be blocked in your area.
Let’s dive into PureVPN. Thousands of servers in 78+ countries – making it an awesome choice? Give it a try toady to see what it can really do!
Key Benefits
- Massive server network: Connect to over 10,000 servers in 140+ countries.
- Top-notch security: Keeps your data safe with AES 256-bit encryption.
- Blazing-fast speeds: Stream and download without buffering.
- Split tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN.
- User-friendly apps: Easy to set up and use on all your devices.
Pricing
PureVPN offers a variety of plans to fit your needs and budget. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Max: $19.95/month.
- Plus: $15.95/month.
- Standard: $12.95/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!
- Starter: $6 per active user per month
- Premium: $18 per active user per month
- Enterprise: Contact Sales.
Pros
Cons
PureVPN vs Tailscale Feature Comparison
Let’s break down the key features of PureVPN and Tailscale side-by-side to see how they measure up.
Security
- PureVPN: Uses AES 256-bit encryption and offers protocols like OpenVPN. However, it logs some connection data.
- Tailscale: Employs the WireGuard protocol and establishes peer-to-peer connections for enhanced privacy. No central server means no single point of vulnerability.
Network and Routing
- PureVPN: Boasts a massive network of 10,000+ servers in 140+ countries, giving you extensive options for changing your IP address and accessing geo-restricted content. You can choose your server and route your traffic accordingly.
- Tailscale: Utilizes a mesh network where your devices connect directly, creating a decentralized network. This is efficient for accessing resources within your network but doesn’t offer the same routing flexibility as PureVPN.
Ease of Use
- PureVPN: Provides user-friendly apps for various devices with a simple setup process. Download, login, and connect!
- Tailscale: Focuses on simplicity with a minimal interface and often requires minimal configuration. Install the client, and your devices automatically connect to your Tailscale network.
Access Controls
- PureVPN: Offers basic access controls, allowing you to connect multiple devices with one account. Lacks granular control over individual devices or users.
- Tailscale Excels with robust access controls. It can manage user permissions, define subnets, and control device access to specific network resources. It is ideal for teams and businesses needing secure network access management.
NAT Traversal
- PureVPN: Effectively handles NAT traversal, establishing connections even when devices are behind NAT firewalls, typical in home and office networks.
- Tailscale: Also effectively handles NAT traversal for seamless connectivity.
DNS and IP Leaks
- PureVPN Includes DNS leak protection to prevent DNS requests from being exposed outside the VPN tunnel, ensuring private browsing. It also offers IP leak protection to prevent your actual IP address from being revealed.
- Tailscale: Routes all DNS requests through your Tailscale network, adding another layer of privacy and security. It prevents potential DNS leaks and keeps browsing data under your control.
CGNAT and Exit Nodes
- PureVPN: Generally doesn’t use CGNAT, providing a dedicated IP address when you connect. Beneficial for gaming or services requiring a unique IP. You can also choose your exit node.
- Tailscale doesn’t rely on traditional exit nodes, as traffic typically exits directly from the device accessing the Internet. It offers better performance for accessing local resources or devices within your network.
What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?
- Specific Needs: Consider what you’ll primarily use the VPN for. Streaming? Gaming? Remote work? Bypassing censorship? This will help you prioritize features like speed, server locations, and security protocols.
- Device Compatibility: Ensure the VPN supports all your devices (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, etc.).
- Simultaneous Connections: Check how many devices you can connect with a single account.
- Logging Policy: If privacy is paramount, opt for a VPN with a strict no-logs policy.
- Customer Support: A responsive customer support team can be invaluable if you encounter issues.
- Free Trials and Refunds: Before committing to a long-term plan, you can test the VPN using free trials or money-back guarantees.
- Independent Audits: Look for VPNs that undergo independent security audits to verify their claims.
Final Verdict
So, who comes out on top? It boils down to what you need.
PureVPN is a solid choice if you want a traditional VPN to encrypt your internet traffic, keep you safe on public Wi-Fi, and bypass those pesky website blocks.
It’s easy to use and has tons of servers to choose from.
But if you’re more interested in creating a virtual private network for your devices, like a secure connection between your laptop and your phone.
If so, Tailscale is the way to go. It’s super simple to set up and offers a unique mesh VPN perfect for sharing files and accessing your home network from anywhere.
We’ve tested both VPNs, comparing their security features and speeds to their pricing and ease of use.
Trust our experience—we’ve done the homework so you can make the best decision for your needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tailscale free?
Yes, Tailscale has a free plan for personal use. You can connect up to 20 devices and enjoy basic features. Need more? They have affordable paid plans for businesses and teams.
Can I use PureVPN and Tailscale together?
Technically, yes. But it’s usually not necessary. They serve different purposes. PureVPN is for accessing the wider internet, while Tailscale focuses on your private network.
How do I install Tailscale?
It’s super easy! Download the Tailscale software for your device (computer, phone, etc.), create an account, install it, and you’re done. Tailscale takes care of the complicated stuff.
Is Tailscale better than other VPNs like NordVPN?
It depends on what you need. NordVPN is a traditional VPN that is great for security and unblocking websites. Tailscale is excellent for securely connecting your own devices.
What exactly is a “Tailnet”?
It’s your private network created by Tailscale. It’s like having a secret internet where only your devices can talk to each other. Perfect for sharing files or playing games with friends!
