Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to Tailscale · 🔐 security
Tailscale vs Gravitl
Netmaker automates fast, secure, distributed virtual networks using WireGuard. Here is how Gravitl ($0/mo open source) stacks up against Tailscale ($6/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Gravitl
$0.00/mo · Open Source
Tailscale vs Gravitl Specification Matrix
facts verified 2026-11-04
| Dimension | Tailscale (Paid) | Gravitl (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $6 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $72 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $72) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $360 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $360) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $720 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $720) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source Open Source |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Self-host (your server) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | webself-hosteddocker to self-host |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 11.9k (active nov 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from Tailscale to Gravitl
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Tailscale.
How to deploy Gravitl
Clone https://github.com/gravitl/netmaker or deploy with Docker Compose
What it takes to run
Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
Where your data lives
All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
Why fork Gravitl instead of vibe-coding a Tailscale clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for Tailscale or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 2 battle-tested open-source alternatives like NetBird or Gravitl.
Tailscale vs Gravitl FAQ
Is Gravitl a good free alternative to Tailscale?+
Yes. Gravitl is a verified open-source (Open Source) replacement for Tailscale. Netmaker automates fast, secure, distributed virtual networks using WireGuard.
What is the catch when switching from Tailscale to Gravitl?+
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Tailscale.
How much do you save switching from Tailscale to Gravitl?+
Tailscale costs $6/mo ($72/yr) per seat, whereas Gravitl is $0/mo. Switching saves $72/yr for a solo user, $360/yr for a 5-person team, and $720/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host Gravitl instead of Tailscale?+
Install: Clone https://github.com/gravitl/netmaker or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup: Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
