Make vs n8n
Make and n8n are both advanced automation platforms that go beyond the simplicity of Zapier. Make is a commercial cloud tool with a visual canvas; n8n is open-source and self-hostable with powerful code nodes. Make is easier to get started; n8n gives technical teams more control.
Build a custom alternative freeSide-by-side
Visual automation platform (formerly Integromat) vs Open-source workflow automation.
| Feature | Make | n8n |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing from | Free, paid from $9/mo | Free (self-hosted), cloud from $20/mo |
| Primary use case | Visual complex workflow automation in the cloud | Technical teams needing self-hosted, unlimited automation with code |
| Pricing | Free plan; Core at $9/mo | Free self-hosted; Cloud from $20/mo |
| Ease of use | Visual canvas is powerful but has a learning curve | Requires technical knowledge; powerful for developers |
| Key strength | Lower cost than Zapier; powerful data transformation; visual routing | Unlimited self-hosted automations; code nodes; full data control |
| Key weakness | Cloud-only; data leaves your server | Self-hosting requires maintenance; steeper setup |
| Team features | Team workspaces, scenario versioning, history | Collaborative workspace on cloud; unlimited on self-hosted |
The third option most teams miss
Picking between Make and n8n isn't the only choice.
Make is the best cloud automation for complex workflows; n8n is the best self-hosted option - Appaca builds your custom app with automation built in so you do not need a separate tool.
- No code, no deployment, no devops
- Built-in database, dashboards, team access
- Refine with chat as your needs change
- Free to start, no per-seat pricing surprises
Common questions
For technical teams that want unlimited automations with full data control, n8n is better. For teams that want a polished cloud experience without infrastructure management, Make is better.
No. Make is a cloud-only platform. If self-hosting is a requirement, n8n, Activepieces, or Windmill are better options.
n8n has 400+ built-in integrations and supports custom HTTP requests for any API. Zapier has 6000+ native integrations but costs more and has less flexibility for technical workflows.
Appaca is a third option for teams that don't want to choose between two existing tools. Instead of forcing your workflow into someone else's product, Appaca builds a custom app from a description - with built-in database, hosting, and team access. Try it free at appaca.ai.