n8nFreemium
Open-source workflow automation tool with a visual builder — self-host or use their cloud.
Automation comparison
n8n vs Zapier
Pricing, pros, cons, and ideal use cases — side by side.
ZapierFreemium
The most widely used automation platform — connects 6,000+ apps with simple triggers.
At a glance
| n8n | Zapier | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | FreemiumFree to self-host. Cloud Starter from $20/month. Cloud Pro from $50/month. | FreemiumFree plan available (100 tasks/month). Paid from $19.99/month. |
| Category | Automation | Automation |
| Ideal for | Tech-savvy SMBsAgenciesSaaSAny business wanting data control | Any SMBLaw FirmsAccountantsInsurance |
Pros & cons
n8n
Pros
- Open source and self-hostable
- No per-execution pricing
- Custom code nodes
- Active community and integrations
Cons
- Self-hosting requires technical knowledge
- Smaller integration library than Zapier
- UI less polished than commercial alternatives
Zapier
Pros
- Easiest to learn
- 6,000+ app integrations
- Reliable and battle-tested
Cons
- Expensive at scale
- Limited logic compared to Make
- Each step counts as a task
Which should you choose?
n8n is built around tech-savvy smbs; Zapier leans more toward any smb. Shortlist the one whose strengths line up with your biggest constraint.