Zapier vs n8nwhich to choose
Zapier provides hosted workflow automation with a large catalog of ready-made app connectors, generally priced by task volume and plan features. n8n is an open-source workflow tool that can be self-hosted, uses a node editor and lets technical teams extend custom logic.
Only specifications linked to manufacturer-published sources are compared. “Not verified” means evidence is missing, not that the product lacks the capability.
| Pricing | Freemium | Freemium |
| Category | Workflow Automation | Workflow Automation |
| Manufacturer / team | Zapier | n8n |
| Product type | Platform | Platform |
| Availability | Available | Available |
| Deployment | Cloud / SaaS | Hybrid |
| Buying / access | Buy or sign up directly | Buy or sign up directly |
| Price note | Free to start; paid plans and Enterprise available (request a quote) | Not specified |
| Source checked | Oct 10, 2026 | Oct 10, 2026 |
| Open source | Not specified | Yes |
| Public API / SDK | Yes | Yes |
| About | Zapier connects applications through automated workflows called Zaps. A trigger starts a sequence of actions, with additional products for tables, forms and AI agents. It is a cloud service for automating recurring work between software tools, not a physical robot. | n8n is an open-source, self-hosted workflow automation tool with a visual node editor and hundreds of integrations. It supports custom code, error handling, and conditional logic, and can be deployed on-premises or in private clouds for data security. It is ideal for enterprises needing high customization and privacy in system integration and process automation. |
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How to choose
Non-technical teams that need many ready-made SaaS connectors and do not want to maintain servers can start with Zapier. Teams with engineering capacity, data-residency needs or custom-node requirements can evaluate self-hosted n8n. Their billing units differ, so compare current pricing with your actual execution volume and required premium features.