Choosing the right online security tool can feel overwhelming, right?
You’re juggling work, streaming, and everyday browsing and must stay safe.
Two names often pop up: Surfshark VPN and Tailscale.
But which one is the best fit for you in 2025?
This isn’t just about tech specs.
It’s about your needs, your budget, and how you use the internet.
We’ll compare SurfsharkVPN vs Tailscale so you can choose smartly. Let’s dive in!
Overview
We’ve tested Surfshark VPN and Tailscale for speed, security, and ease of use.
Our hands-on experience and in-depth research form the basis of this comparison, helping you navigate the key differences and choose the right tool for your needs.
Are you intrigued by Surfshark’s impressive features and affordable price? Head over to their website to learn more and grab a deal!
Pricing: 30-day money-back guarantee. Pricing starts at $15.45/month
Key Features:
- CleanWeb
- Bypasser
- NoBorders mode
Want a simpler, more secure way to connect your devices? Tailscale is easy to set up and offers awesome performance.
Pricing: A custom plan is available. Plan Starts at $6/month
Key Features:
- Mesh network
- WireGuard protocol
- Easy to use
What is Surfshark VPN?
Surfshark VPN is a popular choice for secure browsing.
It’s known for its speed and user-friendly apps. You get a lot of features at a competitive price.
It’s a good option for families or anyone wanting to protect multiple devices.
Unleash the internet’s full potential with Surfshark! Join 3200+ servers in 100 countries and experience true online freedom. Give it a try now!
Key Benefits
- Unlimited connections: Connect all your devices – no limits!
- Global network: 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, so you can always find a good connection.
- CleanWeb: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware, keeping your browsing experience squeaky clean.
Pricing
- Starter: $15.45/month.
- One: $17.95/month.
- One+: $29.65/month.
Pros
Cons
What is Tailscale?
Tailscale is a bit different.
It’s not just a VPN; it creates a secure network between your devices, wherever they are.
Think of it like your own private internet.
It’s great for accessing files, servers, or anything else on your network, no matter where you are.
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
Feature Comparison
Let’s see how Surfshark VPN and Tailscale stack up.
We’ll compare them across key features to help you decide which fits your needs best.
Core Functionality
Surfshark VPN is a traditional virtual private network (VPN).
It hides your IP address & routes your traffic through its servers.
Tailscale, on the other hand, creates a secure, peer-to-peer network between your devices.
This means your devices connect directly to each other rather than through a service provider.
Security and Privacy
Both prioritize security and privacy but in different ways.
Surfshark VPN uses strong encryption and has a strict no-log policy.
This means they don’t track your online activity.
Tailscale also uses robust encryption, but because it’s a peer-to-peer network, it focuses on securing the connection between your devices.
It’s unnecessary to hide your IP address from every website you visit.
Independent security audits are essential for building trust with any provider.
Speed and Performance
For speed, Surfshark VPN offers the WireGuard® protocol, known for its fast speeds and low latency.
Tailscale also uses WireGuard® so that you can expect similarly good performance.
However, because of the peer-to-peer nature, coordination between devices might introduce slight variations in speed.
Server Infrastructure vs. Mesh Network
Surfshark VPN relies on an extensive server infrastructure spread across many locations.
This allows you to simply choose a server in a specific region.
Tailscale creates a mesh network where your devices are the network. There are no central servers.
Platform Compatibility
Both are available on major platforms like Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Compliance and Data Security
Both providers should clearly state their compliance with data protection regulations.
It’s crucial to understand how each service provider handles your data security.
Use Cases
Surfshark VPN is ideal for general internet use, protecting your IP address, and accessing geo-restricted content.
Your traffic is routed through their servers.
Tailscale is perfect for remotely accessing your home network files, servers, or other devices. It creates direct connections between them.
Some even use it for secure access to Microsoft resources.
What to Look for When Choosing a VPN?
- Jurisdiction: Where is the VPN company based? Look for privacy-friendly locations.
- Logging Policy Details: “No logs” is good, but what do they log? Read the fine print.
- Kill Switch: Does it have a kill switch to protect the data if the VPN connection drops?
- DNS Leak Protection: Does it prevent DNS leaks that can reveal your browsing activity?
- Server Locations: More servers often mean better speeds and access to content.
- Simultaneous Connections: How many devices can be used at once?
- Customer Support: Is help readily available if you have problems?
- Money-Back Guarantee: A good guarantee lets you try the VPN risk-free.
Final Verdict
Choosing between Surfshark VPN and Tailscale depends on what you need.
For everyday online privacy and unblocking content, Surfshark VPN is the clear winner.
It’s a solid VPN with fast WireGuard speeds and a user-friendly experience.
If your priority is secure remote access to your own devices and network, Tailscale is excellent.
We’ve tested dozens of VPNs, and our pick reflects real-world performance and value.
We hope this breakdown helps you make the right choice for your digital life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Surfshark VPN or Tailscale better for streaming?
Surfshark VPN is generally better for streaming. Its extensive server network and fast speeds make it ideal for bypassing geo-restrictions and enjoying smooth playback. Tailscale’s focus is on secure network access, not streaming optimization.
Can I use both Surfshark VPN and Tailscale at the same time?
Yes, you can use both. Use Surfshark VPN for general browsing and streaming and Tailscale to access your home network or specific devices securely securely securely. However, they serve different purposes.
Is Tailscale a VPN?
Tailscale is not a traditional VPN. It creates a mesh network, a peer-to-peer connection between your devices. While it offers security like a VPN, it functions differently and is designed for different use cases.
Which is easier to set up, Surfshark VPN or Tailscale?
Surfshark VPN is generally easier to set up, especially for beginners. Its apps are user-friendly. Tailscale requires more technical know-how, though they aim to simplify the process.
Which is more secure, Surfshark VPN or Tailscale?
Both offer strong security but in different ways. Surfshark VPN protects your IP address and online activity, while Tailscale secures the connection between your devices. The “better” security depends on your specific needs.
