Zapier vs n8n
Side-by-side analysis, no fluff. We've tested both in real-world conditions.
Summary table
Freemium
Freemium
What's best about Zapier
- Largest app ecosystem — 6,000+ integrations beats every competitor
- Easiest setup — non-technical users can build Zaps in minutes
- Zapier Tables and Interfaces extend into databases and forms
- AI-powered automation suggestions
What's best about n8n
- Completely free to self-host with no execution or workflow limits
- JavaScript and Python code nodes handle logic that no-code tools cannot
- Native AI agent nodes with LangChain, OpenAI, and tool-calling support
- Active open-source community with 45,000+ GitHub stars and growing node library
What's weakest about Zapier
- More expensive than Make.com for the same task volume
- Complex multi-step logic is less visual than Make's canvas
- Free tier limited to 100 tasks and single-step Zaps
- Premium app integrations locked behind higher plans
What's weakest about n8n
- Self-hosting requires Docker/server knowledge — not plug-and-play
- Cloud pricing is higher than Make for equivalent execution volume
- Fewer native integrations than Zapier (400 vs 6,000+)
- UI can feel developer-centric — less approachable for non-technical users
Graphical Comparison
Visual analysis of performance and features
Dimension scores
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n8n is the obvious pick if you value open-source automation — self-host for free, or use the cloud..
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Zapier or n8n?+
In our tests, n8n (4.6/5) edges out Zapier (4.44/5). n8n: Open-source automation — self-host for free, or use the cloud.
Does Zapier have a free plan?+
Yes, Zapier has a free plan available. Paid plans start at $19.99/mo.
Does n8n have a free plan?+
Yes, n8n has a free plan available. Paid plans start at $20/mo.
How does Zapier differ from n8n?+
Zapier stands out for: Largest app ecosystem — 6,000+ integrations beats every competitor; Easiest setup — non-technical users can build Zaps in minutes. n8n excels at: Completely free to self-host with no execution or workflow limits; JavaScript and Python code nodes handle logic that no-code tools cannot.