Mullvad vs Tailscale: Which VPN is Best for Security in 2025?

par | Jan 30, 2025

Gagnant
mullvad logo
4.6
  • VPN
  • Extension du navigateur
  • Search
  • Encrypted DNS
  • Browser
  • Mullvad browser
  • Paid Plan Starts at €5.00
Finaliste
tailscale
3.2
  • Accès à distance
  • Site-to-Site Networking
  • Multi-Cloud Networking
  • Kubernetes
  • Edge & IoT Deployments
  • Plan gratuit disponible
  • Paid Plan Starts at $5
Mullvad vs Tailscale

Choisir le bon VPN can feel like navigating a minefield.

Do you need a simple way to access your home network from anywhere?

Or are you a privacy enthusiast looking for maximum protection against online threats? 

In this article, we’ll discuss the key differences between Mullvad vs Tailscale, focusing on their sécurité features to help you decide which best suits your needs.

Aperçu

We’ve spent weeks testing Mullvad and Tailscale in real-world scenarios to give you the most accurate comparison. 

We’ve evaluated their performance, ease of use, and, most importantly, their sécurité caractéristiques.

Need a VPN that prioritizes your security above all else? Mullvad earns a 9/10 with its robust privacy features and strict no-logs policy, all for just €5/month.

Mullvad VPN logo
4.6sur 5

Take control of your privacy with Mullvad VPN! It offers access to over 800 servers in 40 countries!

Tarifs : Mullvad VPN has a simple pricing structure: €5.00/month.

Caractéristiques principales :

  • Port Forwarding
  • Bridge Mode
  • Multihop Connections
Tailscale VPN
3.2sur 5

Want a simpler, more secure way to connect your devices? Tailscale is easy to set up!

Tarifs : Free Plan Available. Plan Starts at $5/month

Caractéristiques principales :

  • WireGuard protocol,
  • mesh networking,
  • access controls.

What is Mullvad?

Mullvad is like that friend who’s super serious about privacy.

They don’t keep any logs of your activity.

They use strong encryption to protect your données.

And they offer a bunch of advanced features to keep you safe online.

Découvrez également nos favoris Mullvad alternatives

VPN Mullvad

Notre avis

Mullvad VPN logo

Améliorez votre confidentialité en ligne avec Mullvad VPN. Bénéficiez d'un cryptage robuste et d'une politique stricte d'absence d'enregistrement.

Principaux avantages

  • L'accent est mis sur l'anonymat : Aucune adresse électronique n'est requise pour s'inscrire.
  • Open source: Transparent et digne de confiance.
  • Sécurité renforcée : Utilise les protocoles WireGuard et OpenVPN.
  • Accepte les bitcoins : Pour les paiements anonymes.

Tarifs

  • 1 month: €5/month.
  • 1 an : €5/month.
  • 1 décennie : €5/month.
Prix du VPN Mullvad

Avantages

  • Forte concentration sur la protection de la vie privée.
  • Excellent security features.
  • Politique d'absence de journaux.
  • Applications conviviales.
  • Open-source software.

Inconvénients

  • Réseau de serveurs plus petit.
  • Support client limité.
  • No live chat option.
  • Lacks advanced features.

What is Tailscale?

Tailscale is different from your typical VPN.

It’s like a magic bridge that connects all your devices.

It’s super easy to set up and use, perfect for sharing files between devices or accessing your home network from anywhere.

Also, explore our favorite Tailscale alternatives…

Tailscale homepage

Notre avis

Tailscale VPN

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.

Principaux avantages

  • Simple setup: Get started in minutes; no complex configurations needed.
  • Sécurité renforcée : 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.

Tarifs

  • Personnel: 0 $/mois
  • Personal Plus: $5/mois
  • Démarreur: 6 $/mois
  • Prime: $18/mois
  • Entreprise: Tarification personnalisée
AD 4nXfM gWXdExYdREidILB23E1PwoLX7hvufKHV9nqGIq5 gwt5 3HN u5sbn4yf hwOWuQLI2AEYjQzBcfCIcYScGWr5wR4swM4aHa 3WSFJMF0zsy63QWkWg1C3uzFXXTOy21fUWyA?key=w5ir vqz0mtwmsgqZVvfFw

Avantages

  • It’s incredibly easy to use.
  • I love the free plan.
  • My connection feels very secure.
  • It works seamlessly across devices.
  • It’s perfect for remote work.

Inconvénients

  • It lacks advanced VPN features.
  • It’s not ideal for streaming.
  • Troubleshooting can be tricky.
  • It requires some technical know-how.

Comparaison des fonctionnalités

Choosing between a classic VPN service and a modern, encrypted mesh network can be tough.

Here is a direct feature-by-feature comparison to show you exactly how Mullvad and Tailscale stack up against each other.

1. Objectif principal

  • Mullvad: The central focus of mullvad vpn is maximizing user privacy and anonymity when browsing the public internet. It functions as a traditional virtual private network service.
  • Tailscale: Its main purpose is to build a secure, private network (a “tailnet”) connecting all your personal devices, allowing them to communicate directly and safely.

2. Server Network and IP Addresses

  • Mullvad: Operates a relatively small server network (over 600 mullvad vpn server locations in 40+ countries). This is used to change your public ip address and access the global internet securely.
  • Tailscale: Does not operate its own global VPN server network. It uses your own devices as connection points. The only global exit nodes are provided via a paid integration with Mullvad.

3. Identity and Privacy

  • Mullvad: Allows for a completely anonymous sign-up using an account number instead of an email. It accepts cash payments for ultimate user privacy.
  • Tailscale: Requires authentication via a third-party identity provider (like Google, Microsoft, or a custom SSO). While connections are private, the service links your access to an existing identity.

4. Protocols and Encryption

  • Mullvad: Supports both openvpn and wireguard protocols. Traffic is secured through the vpn tunnel using strong encryption (AES-256 or ChaCha20).
  • Tailscale: Built on the modern WireGuard protocols, ensuring all traffic between your devices is end-to-end encrypted and secure.

5. Multi-Hop and Advanced Security

  • Mullvad: Features Multi-hop to route your connection through two different Mullvad server locations for increased anonymity. It also has a mandatory vpn kill switch to prevent DNS leaks and data exposure.
  • Tailscale: Does not offer a native multi-hop feature. It offers advanced network security through Access Control Lists (ACLs) and features like Subnet Router for securing your entire local network.

6. Platform Support and Apps

  • Mullvad: Provides dedicated vpn apps for all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, as well as a dedicated Mullvad browser.
  • Tailscale: Also supports all major platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS). The tailscale app is often described as simple and intuitive for all mobile devices.

7. Simultaneous Device Connections

  • Mullvad: Allows for up to five devices to be connected at the same time on a single mullvad vpn subscription.
  • Tailscale: The free personal plan allows for up to 20 devices. The paid plans allow for more, making it much more flexible for users with many devices.

8. Use with External Services

  • Mullvad: Works to bypass geo-restrictions, but its focus on privacy means it often struggles with popular streaming services like BBC iPlayer or Netflix.
  • Tailscale: Primarily for connecting your own devices and networks. Its function is not to unblock content but to enable secure networking between your personal resources.

9. Audits and Transparency

  • Mullvad: Has undergone multiple successful independent audits of its apps and infrastructure, proving its commitment to its no-logging policy. This builds significant trust among vpn users.
  • Tailscale: Also relies on the transparency of the open-source WireGuard protocol and undergoes regular security and penetration testing to ensure network security.

Que rechercher lors du choix d’un VPN ?

  • Audit and Trust: Check if the service has passed independent audits of its code and infrastructure to ensure it is one of the secure VPNs available.
  • Privacy Model: Look at what user data is collected. Services like mullvad vpn are ideal because they minimize user activity data collection, often not even requiring an email.
  • Decentralization: For secure access, consider solutions like Tailscale that help prevent single points of failure by connecting devices peer-to-peer.
  • Simplicity and Setup: Choose software that is easy to install. For instance, see how simple it is to install Tailscale versus configuring complex traditional vpn settings on a vpn VPN-compatible router.
  • Caractéristiques uniques : Does the service offer split tunneling or an easy-to-use vpn kill switch? These are crucial tools for controlling your vpn connection.
  • Server Network Size: For global browsing anonymity, assess the size of the mullvad vpn’s server network. A smaller network might lead to congestion, impacting upload speeds.
  • Exit Node Flexibility: If your goal is to change your public ip address, you need a global exit node network, which is the main difference between traditional vpn providers and mesh services.
  • Pricing for Users: Check if they offer a robust service for individual users (like Mullvad’s pricing) or decent features for free users, and compare them to other VPNs on the vpn market.
  • Device Support: Ensure the client is available across all your platforms, from your Windows laptop and MacBook Pro to your Android TV and mobile apps.
  • Support and Guarantee: A solid money-back guarantee and responsive support team are non-negotiable, especially for new users.

Verdict final

After conducting our detailed mullvad vpn review, our clear choice is Mullvad.

If your goal is true anonymity and security when connecting to the public internet, no other vpn providers come close.

Mullvad stands out because of its commitment to radically open security and a proven track record (it has mullvad passed multiple audits).

While it has a smaller server network compared to giants like Private Internet Access or proton vpn, its core features.

Including excellent DNS leak protection and the ability to accept Bitcoin Cash—make it the top pick for privacy veterans.

However, if your main focus is secure remote access to your own computers and other devices, and managing your internal network traffic without worrying about public dns requests, the Tailscale client is the superior tool.

But for pure public anonymity, the robust mullvad service wins.

More of Mullvad

We’ve explored alternatives to Mullvad, so how does Mullvad stack up directly against them?

  • Mullvad vs NordVPN: It prioritizes privacy, while NordVPN excels with a massive server network and extra features.
  • Mullvad vs ExpressVPN: It is known for its consistently fast speeds, user-friendly interface, and strong streaming capabilities. Mullvad prioritizes privacy with anonymous accounts, but its speeds might not be as consistently high, and it’s not as effective for unblocking streaming services.
  • Mullvad vs PureVPN: It boasts a larger server network, which can be advantageous for bypassing geo-restrictions. Mullvad is often favored for its stronger commitment to privacy and transparent practices.
  • Mullvad vs SurfsharkVPN: It is generally more affordable for long-term plans and allows unlimited connections. Mullvad stands out for its strong privacy focus and anonymous account creation. Surfshark tends to be faster in speed tests.
  • Mullvad vs ProtonVPN: It offers a balance of strong security and good speeds, with a more feature-rich interface. Mullvad emphasizes simplicity and anonymous use, sometimes at the cost of speed and additional features.
  • Mullvad vs PrivadoVPN: It offers a decent free plan and good speeds, while Mullvad has a wider server network and a longer-standing reputation for privacy.
  • Mullvad vs AdGuard VPN: It’s primary strength is its ad-blocking integration. Mullvad is a more comprehensive VPN focused on privacy and security.
  • Mullvad contre le bouclier virtuel: Mullvad offers more advanced security features and a stronger focus on privacy than the simpler Virtual Shield.
  • Mullvad vs StrongVPN: It is known for its robust encryption and reliable connections. Mullvad also prioritizes security, but with a different approach to user anonymity.
  • Mullvad vs FastestVPN: It is a budget-friendly option. Mullvad, while having a simple pricing structure, isn’t the cheapest but focuses on privacy and security.
  • Mullvad vs AuraVPN: It includes identity theft protection, while Mullvad’s core focus is on providing a private and secure VPN service.
  • Mullvad contre CyberGhost: It is user-friendly with specialized servers for various activities. Mullvad prioritizes privacy and simplicity over a wide array of server types.
  • Mullvad vs McAfee VPN: It is a basic VPN often bundled with security software. Mullvad is a dedicated VPN service with a strong emphasis on privacy and security.
  • Mullvad contre l'accès Internet privé: PIA is known for its customization options and a large server network. Mullvad focuses on a no-frills approach with strong privacy.
  • Mullvad vs Mysterium: It uses a traditional server network focused on privacy and security, while Mysterium is a decentralized VPN with a different anonymity model and potentially less consistent speeds.

More of Tailscale

We’ve explored alternatives to Tailscale, so how does Tailscale stack up directly against them?

  • Tailscale vs NordVPN: It creates a zero-trust private network, while NordVPN provides general online privacy and security.
  • Tailscale vs ExpressVPN: It’s MediaStreamer provides some device linking for content access, but Tailscale offers a more comprehensive private network solution.
  • Tailscale vs PureVPN: It’s port forwarding can enable direct device connections for specific uses, whereas Tailscale creates a seamless private network.
  • Tailscale vs SurfsharkVPN: It’s Nexus aims to enhance the network, but Tailscale is specifically designed to create a private network between devices easily.
  • Tailscale vs ProtonVPN: It allows secure server connections, but Tailscale directly links your devices in a private network.
  • Tailscale vs PrivadoVPN: It secures connections, but Tailscale’s core function is to create a simple, private network between your devices.
  • Tailscale vs AdGuard VPN: It focuses on privacy and ad blocking, while Tailscale’s strength is in creating direct, secure device-to-device networks.
  • Tailscale vs Virtual Shield: It offers secure VPN connections, but Tailscale is built to create a cohesive private network.
  • Tailscale vs StrongVPN: It provides secure connections, but Tailscale simplifies creating a private network between devices.
  • Tailscale vs FastestVPN: It secures connections, while Tailscale’s focus is on creating an easy-to-manage private network.
  • Tailscale vs AuraVPN: It offers a security suite including VPN, while Tailscale specializes in creating secure, private device networks.
  • Tailscale vs CyberGhost: It allows multiple secure connections to its servers, while Tailscale creates a direct private network between your devices.
  • Tailscale vs McAfee VPN: It secures your devices’ internet connection, while Tailscale creates a private network for direct device linking.
  • Tailscale vs Private Internet Access: PIA offers secure connections and port forwarding, while Tailscale provides a more streamlined approach to creating a private device network.
  • Tailscale vs Mysterium: It is a decentralized VPN that connects through other users, while Tailscale creates a private network directly between your trusted devices.

Questions fréquemment posées

What is a VPN, and why do I need one?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in another location. This makes your online activity more private and secure, and it can also allow you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content that might be blocked in your region.

Is Mullvad VPN better than Tailscale?

It depends on your needs. Mullvad is a classic VPN service that prioritizes privacy and security, while Tailscale focuses on creating a secure private network between your devices. If you need a VPN for general online protection and anonymity, Mullvad is the better choice.

Can I use Mullvad VPN for torrenting?

Mullvad allows torrenting on all its servers and doesn’t throttle your bandwidth. Their no-logs policy also ensures your torrenting activity remains private.

How does Tailscale encrypt my connection?

Tailscale uses the WireGuard protocol, known for its strong encryption and fast speeds. This protocol ensures that your data is protected when you access your devices remotely or share files.

Is Tailscale free?

Yes, Tailscale offers a free plan that is perfect for personal use. It connects up to 20 devices and provides all the basic features necessary to create a secure private network.