Zapier vs n8n: Which Automation Platform?
Zapier is the easiest way to connect apps with the largest integration library, while n8n is open source, self-hostable, and more flexible for complex AI workflows.
Tagline
Automate your work by connecting 7,000+ apps, now with AI.
Open-source workflow automation with AI.
Pricing
Freemium$19.99/mo
Freemium$24/mo (Starter)
Open source
No
Yes
API available
Yes
Yes
Platforms
Web
Web, Self-hosted
Key features
- • 7,000+ app integrations
- • Multi-step Zaps
- • AI Agents
- • Tables & Interfaces
- • Webhooks
- • Visual workflow builder
- • AI and agent nodes
- • Self-hosting
- • 400+ integrations
- • Code steps
Zapier
Automate your work by connecting 7,000+ apps, now with AI.
Pros
- + Huge integration library
- + No-code friendly
- + Reliable automation
Cons
- – Task-based pricing adds up
- – Complex flows get expensive
- – Debugging can be fiddly
n8n
Open-source workflow automation with AI.
Pros
- + Open source and self-hostable
- + Very flexible
- + Great for AI workflows
Cons
- – Steeper learning curve
- – Self-hosting overhead
- – Less polished than rivals
Which should you choose?
Choose Zapier if…
- • You need workflow automation
- • You need lead routing
- • You need notifications
Choose n8n if…
- • You need ai automations
- • You need app integrations
- • You need internal tools
The verdict
Pick Zapier for simplicity and integrations; choose n8n for self-hosting, control, and advanced automations.