Zapier vs Make vs n8n: which automation tool wins
All three connect apps and automate repetitive work. They differ in how they charge, who they are built for, and how much you must manage yourself.
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Read this first. Our main source is published by Zapier and argues that Zapier is the best overall. Treat its claims about Zapier as the vendor's own.
The short answer
Zapier for the easiest start, Make for a visual managed builder, n8n if you are technical and want control.
- Zapier. Pick it for the easiest start and the largest app library, which Zapier says is over 9,000 integrations.
- Make. Pick it for a managed, visual builder that non-developers can learn.
- n8n. Pick it if you are technical and want control, self-hosting or stronger built-in AI features.
Side by side
| Zapier | Make | n8n | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Task-based, charging for completed work, per Zapier | Per step, including triggers, using credits | Per workflow execution, so a multi-step workflow counts as one run |
| Hosting | Cloud | Fully cloud-managed | Open source. Self-host it or use the paid cloud version |
| Integrations | Over 9,000, per Zapier | About 3,000 or more | About 1,500. Niche tools may need HTTP requests or custom nodes |
| Ease of use | Described by Zapier as the easiest of the three | A visual builder that is approachable for non-developers | Assumes technical skill and introduces variables and expressions early |
| AI features | Not covered in our source | A beta agent builder, and relies more on external tools | Stronger native AI, including LangChain, self-hosted models and retrieval |
| Security and scaling | Zapier claims more granular governance than Make | SOC 2 Type II, SSO and GDPR compliance, and scaling handled for you | Largely your responsibility if self-hosted. SOC 2 is available on the paid cloud plan |
Figures for Make and n8n come from an article published by Zapier. Integration counts change, so confirm on each vendor's site.
Each tool in a little more detail
Zapier
Good for
- The largest app library, by Zapier's own count.
- Charges only for completed tasks, according to Zapier.
Watch out for
- Almost everything we have on it comes from Zapier itself.
- Task-based charges can add up as workflows grow.
Make
Good for
- A visual builder that suits ops, marketing and support staff.
- Managed for you, with SOC 2 Type II, SSO and GDPR compliance.
Watch out for
- Per-step credits can add up for complex or frequently polling workflows.
n8n
Good for
- Open source and self-hostable.
- Stronger native AI support, and a multi-step workflow counts as one execution.
Watch out for
- You handle infrastructure, backups and updates if you self-host.
- Fewer native integrations than the others.
Who should pick which
- You want your first automation running this afternoonStart with Zapier or Make.
- You are comfortable with servers and want control and AI workflowsStart with n8n.
- You expect complex multi-step workflows that run oftenCompare the pricing models on your real workflow before choosing.
Common questions
Which is cheapest?
It depends on your workflow. n8n counts a whole multi-step run as one execution, while Make counts each step. Price your real workflow in each.
Do I need to code?
Not for Zapier or Make. n8n assumes more technical skill, especially if you self-host.
Sources
We have not hands-on tested every tool on this page. Details come from the sources above. See how we review.