n8n vs Zapier
Opposite ends. Zapier is the easiest and most expensive at scale; n8n is the cheapest and most technical. There isn't much middle ground between them.
n8n
Free plan
Pick n8n if…
Volume is high enough that per-task pricing hurts, and you have technical ability.
Zapier
Free plan
Pick Zapier if…
You want zero ops and the widest integration catalogue.
Side by side
| n8n | Zapier | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free plan | Free plan |
| Category | Agents & Automation | Agents & Automation |
| Best known for | Self-hostable workflow automation with native AI agent nodes. | The default glue between SaaS apps, now with AI steps and agents. |
| Tags | automation, self-hosted, workflows, agents | automation, integrations, no-code |
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Comparisons are editorial and can't be bought. Pricing models change — check both vendors before deciding. Some links earn a commission; see the disclosure.