AIArsenal/Compare/n8n vs Zapier

n8n vs Zapier

Side-by-side comparison of free tiers, features, privacy, and company background. Updated for 2026.

n8n

OSS

Self-hosted automation platform — 176K stars, 400+ integrations

The leading self-hosted automation platform with 176K+ stars and 400+ integrations. Think Zapier but you own everything — unlimited workflows, no per-task pricing, and a visual editor that makes complex automations accessible to non-developers.

QUICK START

Self-host with Docker (docker run n8nio/n8n) → Build your first workflow by dragging nodes in the visual editor → Connect triggers and actions across 400+ apps

Try n8n →View full listing →

Zapier

8,000+ app connections, industry standard

The industry standard for no-code automation with 8,000+ app connections. While the free tier is limited to 100 tasks/month, it is unmatched in breadth of integrations and reliability for simple trigger-action workflows.

QUICK START

Sign up at zapier.com → Create a Zap by choosing a trigger app and an action app → Test and turn on your automation

Try Zapier →View full listing →
SIDE-BY-SIDE

Feature comparison

n8nZapier
FREE TIERUnlimited self-hosted forever100 tasks/month
COMPANYn8n GmbH (Germany)Zapier, Inc.
OPEN SOURCEYes ✓No
PRIVACYEuropean; self-hostedSOC 2
CATEGORYAutomation & AgentsAutomation & Agents
SUBCATEGORYWorkflow AutomationWorkflow Automation
DECISION GUIDE

Which should you pick?

Pick n8n if…
  • ▸Users prioritizing data privacy & full control over their workflows.
  • ▸Devs/teams seeking unlimited, no-cost automation with self-hosted power.
  • ▸Businesses scaling complex automations without per-task pricing limits.
Skip it if…
  • ✕Users who prefer zero-setup SaaS tools and avoid server management.
  • ✕Absolute beginners intimidated by self-hosting or open-source software.
Pick Zapier if…
  • ▸Best for connecting 8,000+ apps for reliable, simple trigger-action workflows.
  • ▸Best for small businesses automating a few critical tasks within 100 free monthly tasks.
  • ▸Best for non-developers needing robust no-code automation without custom coding.
Skip it if…
  • ✕Not for complex multi-step automations or high-volume, resource-intensive tasks.
  • ✕Not for users needing truly free, high-volume automation beyond 100 tasks/month.
Still stuck? Ask AIArsenal — our conversational advisor considers your use case, budget, and privacy needs.ASK AI →+ COMPARE MORE TOOLS
RELATED

More comparisons

Activepieces vs n8n