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2026 comparison

Zapier vs n8n

Side-by-side analysis, no fluff. We've tested both in real-world conditions.

Summary table

Criterion
Z

Zapier

Freemium

n

n8n

Freemium

Score
4.5 / 5
4.4 / 5
Category
Productivity
Productivity
Pricing model
Freemium
Freemium
Starting price
$19.99/mo
$20/mo
Badge
Top picks
—
Z

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
n

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
Z

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
n

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

Dimension scores

Zapier
n8n
App Coverage
9.8
8.5
Value for Money
8.0
9.8
Quick verdict

Zapier is the obvious pick if you value connect your apps and automate workflows without code..

Full Zapier review
Try Zapier
Full n8n review
Try n8n

Frequently asked questions

Which is better, Zapier or n8n?+

In our tests, Zapier (4.5/5) edges out n8n (4.4/5). Zapier: Connect your apps and automate workflows without code.

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.