ProtonVPN vs Tailscale: Head-to-Head Comparison in 2025

par | Jan 29, 2025

Gagnant
Logo de Protonvpn
4.6
  • Masquage IP
  • Protection juridique suisse
  • Politique de non-journalisation
  • Bloqueur de publicités NetShield
  • Protection contre les fuites DNS
  • Plan gratuit disponible
  • Plan payant à partir de $4.49
Finaliste
tailscale
3.0
  • Accès à distance
  • Site-to-Site Networking
  • Multi-Cloud Networking
  • Kubernetes
  • Edge & IoT Deployments
  • Plan gratuit disponible
  • Paid Plan Starts at $5
protonvpn vs tailscale

Choisir le bon VPN peut donner l’impression de naviguer dans un labyrinthe.

ProtonVPN and Tailscale both promise online sécurité and privacy, but they go about it in different ways.

If you’re struggling to figure out which one is right for you, you’re in the right place.

This article breaks down the key differences between ProtonVPN vs Tailscale, comparing them head-to-head on features, security, speed, and price. 

Aperçu

To give you the most accurate comparison, we’ve spent weeks testing both ProtonVPN and Tailscale.

We’ve evaluated their features, analyzed their sécurité protocols, measured their speeds, and assessed their pricing plans.

This hands-on experience forms the basis for our head-to-head analysis.

Logo de Protonvpn
4.6sur 5

Stop guessing which VPN is best. Choose ProtonVPN, the Swiss-based provider with over 15,000.

Tarifs : It has a free plan. Paid plan starts at $4.49/month

Caractéristiques principales :

  • Alias de courrier électronique.
  • Coffre-fort crypté.
  • Open Source.
Tailscale VPN
3sur 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 ProtonVPN?

Vous voulez un VPN that’s serious about privacy? Check out ProtonVPN.

They’re based in Switzerland. This means that they have strong privacy laws. 

They also have some unique security features. They offer a free version.

Découvrez également nos favoris Alternatives à ProtonVPN

page d'accueil de protonvpn

Notre avis

Logo de Protonvpn

Rejoignez plus de 100 millions d'utilisateurs qui choisissent Proton VPN pour une sécurité en ligne à toute épreuve. Avec plus de 13 000 serveurs répartis dans plus de 120 pays et des vitesses jusqu'à 400 % boostées grâce à l'Accélérateur VPN, vous pouvez naviguer, regarder du contenu en streaming et jouer avec une confidentialité et des performances inégalées.

Principaux avantages

  • Une attention particulière portée à la confidentialité : Basé en Suisse avec une politique stricte de non-journalisation.
  • Serveurs centraux sécurisés : Ajoute une couche de protection supplémentaire.
  • Version gratuite disponible : Essayez-le avant d'acheter.
  • Applications open source : Transparence et développement communautaire.

Tarifs

  • Sans protons : 0,00 $/mois.
  • VPN Plus : 4,99 $/mois.
  • Proton Illimité : 7,99 $/mois.
Tarifs de ProtonVPN

Avantages

  • Excellent pour l'intimité.
  • Serveurs centraux sécurisés.
  • Version gratuite disponible.
  • Applications faciles à utiliser.

Inconvénients

  • La version gratuite est limitée.
  • Il peut être plus lent que d’autres VPN.
  • Pas le meilleur pour le streaming.

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 jeux with friends.

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
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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

Let’s dive into the specifics and see how these VPNs stack up against each other feature by feature.

This detailed comparison will help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each, making your decision easier.

1. VPN Protocols

  • ProtonVPN: Offers a choice of protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard, catering to different needs and preferences. This gives you flexibility and control over your VPN connection’s security and speed. You can even connect to the VPN using the older OpenVPN protocol for maximum compatibility.
  • Tailscale: Tailscale is built on WireGuard, known for its speed and modern cryptography. While this ensures a fast and secure connection, it lacks the flexibility of choosing different protocols. This VPN is based on a peer-to-peer architecture, unlike VPNs that use a central server.

2. Network Infrastructure

  • ProtonVPN: Operates a vast network of servers in numerous countries. This extensive network allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from around the world. You can select your preferred VPN server et exit node for optimal performance. Need to change your IP address? ProtonVPN has you covered.
  • Tailscale: Focuses on creating a secure mesh network between your devices. It doesn’t rely on a network of données centers like a traditional VPN. This approach prioritizes direct connections and minimizes latency, making it ideal for accessing devices on your private network. Tailscale creates a secure tunnel between your devices, essentially extending your local network.

3. Caractéristiques de sécurité

  • ProtonVPN: A leading VPN with strong security features like ProtonVPN’s Secure Core servers et ProtonVPN’s Stealth technology, designed to bypass censorship and provide enhanced privacy. Proton VPN also includes a kill switch and DNS leak protection. This VPN is ideal for users who prioritize security and anonymity.
  • Tailscale: Prioritizes security with its implementation of WireGuard. Tailscale also offers features like access controls and 2FA for added protection. Tailscale provides a secure way to access your devices and share resources without exposing your online activities to the public internet.

4. Facilité d'utilisation

  • ProtonVPN: Easy to set up and use, with user-friendly apps for various platforms, including iOS and Android. It allows for one active VPN connection at a time.
  • Tailscale: Known for its simple setup and intuitive interface. Tailscale is easy to set up and manage, even for those unfamiliar with VPNs. Vous pouvez run Tailscale on multiple devices simultaneously.

5. Privacy

  • ProtonVPN: Based in Switzerland, a country with strong privacy laws. They have a strict no-logs policy, meaning they don’t track your online activities ou network traffic. Proton VPN ensures your online privacy by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address.
  • Tailscale: While not a VPN service in the traditional sense, Tailscale prioritizes privacy by encrypting your Internet traffic and not logging your data. Tailscale docs emphasize their commitment to user privacy.

6. Use Cases

  • ProtonVPN: Ideal for individuals who need a VPN pour online privacy, bypassing geo-restrictions, and accessing blocked content. Using Proton, you can secure your connection on public Wi-Fi and protect your data from prying eyes. If you want to use an exit node in another country to access geo-blocked content, ProtonVPN is a good choice.
  • Tailscale: Perfect for users who want to create a secure and private network between their devices, such as accessing files on a home computer while voyage or sharing resources between team members. Prefer Tailscale if you need to securely access devices on your private network or want a VPN without the limitations of a traditional VPN. Tailscale requires an account to use, but it offers a generous free plan for personal use.

7. Device Compatibility

  • ProtonVPN: Offers apps for a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It also provides browser extensions for added convenience.
  • Tailscale: Supports a variety of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android, as well as Synology NAS and routers. This broad compatibility ensures you can use Tailscale on virtually any device.

Que rechercher lors du choix d’un VPN ?

  • Primary Goal: Do you need a service to hide your IP addresses and traffic from your Internet service provider and parcourir public websites privately (Proton VPN)? Or do you need secure networking to connect your other devices to your home or office network from anywhere (Tailscale)?
  • Architecture & Failure Point: Traditional VPN providers (like ProtonVPN) rely on a large server network with multiple vpn servers, but traffic often flows through one at a time. Tailscale works by creating a secure mesh between your clients, which basically eliminates single points of failure.
  • Installation and App Experience: How easy is the process to install tailscale or the Proton VPN app? Look for native apps for all your operating systems (Linux user, MacBook Pro, Apple TV, Android app, etc.). The tailscale client should be simple to download and configure.
  • Privacy Trust: Check the vpn provider’s logging policy. ProtonVPN is run by Proton Technologies AG, based in Switzerland (world’s strongest privacy laws), and is known for its “no IP logs” policy. Look for independent audits, which Proton VPN passed recently.
  • Fonctionnalités avancées :
    • External Access: Does the service allow you to use exit nodes to route all your internet traffic through a specific device (like using your home PC’s internet connection when traveling)?
    • Secure Tunnel: Is the service using a modern vpn protocol like WireGuard for the encrypted vpn tunnel? Both services support this.
    • Specific Routing: Can you set up split tunneling to choose which apps use the vpn tunnel and which do not?
    • Network Bridging: If you manage a complex home lab or work environment, do you need subnet routers to access entire remote networks? This is a key tailscale feature.
  • Soutien et communauté : Do they offer live chat support or are you expected to file bugs and rely on community support? Proton VPN support staff are available for premium users. Tailscale has excellent docs for developers and new users.
  • Cost and Tiers: Both offer a free tier or options for free users. Tailscale’s free tier is generous for individual users. ProtonVPN’s free VPN is limited in speed and servers. Consider if you need an expensive VPN or if a free VPN meets your needs.

Verdict final

The choice between these two vpn companies comes down to your network security goal.

If you need a complete privacy solution to defeat blocking access to services like BBC iPlayer.

Hide your IP addresses, and ensure your internet speeds remain high with unlimited bandwidth via a global server network. ProtonVPN is the winner.

Proton VPN’s good security is proven with its double vpn and Tor network access.

However, if your main need is secure networking to access your Google Cloud servers, a subnet router at home, or other devices easily using the simple Tailscale app without a complex configuration, choose Tailscale.

This vpn provider’s approach focuses on direct peer-to-peer vpn connections.

Making it perfect for developers and Linux app users who want to easily sign into their secure site.

For a premium vpn experience focused on general web privacy, we recommend the easy-to-use ProtonVPN.

More of ProtonVPN

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

  • ProtonVPN vs NordVPN: ProtonVPN prioritizes privacy with its Swiss base and open-source apps, while NordVPN focuses on speed and a vast server network.
  • ProtonVPN vs ExpressVPN: It is often faster and more reliable for streaming, while ProtonVPN provides strong security features and a transparent open-source approach.
  • ProtonVPN vs PureVPN: It is generally considered better overall with faster speeds and stronger security, while PureVPN boasts a larger server count.
  • ProtonVPN vs SurfsharkVPN: It is often more affordable and allows unlimited connections, while ProtonVPN is known for slightly faster speeds and stronger privacy features.
  • ProtonVPN vs PrivadoVPN: It offers a wider server network and a stronger focus on privacy, while PrivadoVPN provides a decent free plan and good speeds.
  • ProtonVPN vs AdGuard VPN: It’s strength is its ad-blocking integration, while ProtonVPN is a more comprehensive VPN that focuses on security and privacy.
  • ProtonVPN contre le bouclier virtuel: It offers more advanced security features and better performance than the simpler Virtual Shield.
  • ProtonVPN vs StrongVPN: It generally has better speeds and a larger server network, while StrongVPN is known for strong encryption.
  • ProtonVPN vs FastestVPN: ProtonVPN is typically faster and offers stronger privacy features compared to the budget-friendly FastestVPN.
  • ProtonVPN vs AuraVPN: ProtonVPN focuses on VPN security and privacy, while AuraVPN includes identity theft protection.
  • ProtonVPN vs CyberGhost: It is user-friendly with specialized servers, while ProtonVPN emphasizes security and privacy with features like Secure Core.
  • ProtonVPN vs McAfee VPN: ProtonVPN is a dedicated VPN service with stronger security and privacy features than the basic VPN included with McAfee.
  • ProtonVPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA is known for customization and a large server network, while ProtonVPN focuses on strong privacy and a transparent approach.
  • ProtonVPN vs Mysterium: ProtonVPN uses a traditional server network known for security and speed, while Mysterium is a decentralized VPN.

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

Can I use ProtonVPN and Tailscale together?

While technically possible, it’s generally not recommended. Both ProtonVPN and Tailscale create VPN networks, and using them simultaneously can lead to conflicts and unpredictable routing behavior. You would essentially be creating a VPN within a VPN, which can cause complications. It’s best to use a VPN at a time, depending on your needs.

Is Tailscale a regular VPN?

Not exactly. While both ProtonVPN and Tailscale encrypt your VPN traffic, Tailscale focuses on creating a secure network between your personal devices rather than routing your traffic through a central server. Think of it as a private mesh network for your devices. It’s a VPN without the need for a central VPN server.

Do I need a VPN accelerator with either of these services?

Generally, no. Both ProtonVPN and Tailscale utilize modern protocols like WireGuard, which is known for its speed and efficiency. A VPN accelerator is unlikely to provide significant improvements.

How do I choose between ProtonVPN and Tailscale?

Ce software comparison between ProtonVPN and Tailscale highlights that the best choice depends on your needs. If you need a VPN for privacy, unblocking content, and bypassing geo-restrictions, ProtonVPN is a solid choice. If you want to create a secure network between your own devices, Tailscale is the better option. This side-by-side comparison of ProtonVPN and Tailscale should help you decide whether ProtonVPN or Tailscale aligns better with your needs.

Can I use Tailscale with OpenVPN Access Server?

Tailscale and OpenVPN Access Server are fundamentally different technologies. Tailscale uses a peer-to-peer architecture, while OpenVPN Access Server relies on a central server. Integrating them can be complex and may require advanced networking knowledge, including the use of subnet routes and potentially a split tunnel workaround.

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