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Zapiern8n vs Zapier — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of n8n and Zapier to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
TLDR
Quick Verdict
n8n takes the lead with a 4.5 rating and is best for technical teams who want self-hosted automation with no per-execution limits.. Zapier (3.5) is the better pick if you need non-technical automation between apps.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | n8n | Zapier |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★★ 4.5(178) | ★★★★ 3.5(42) |
| Pricing Model | open_source | freemium |
| Starter Price | $24/mo (Cloud Starter, 2.5K executions) | $29.99/mo |
| Free Tier | Yes | No |
| Platforms | web, linux, mac, windows | Web |
| Learning Curve | medium | easy |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Technical teams who want self-hosted automation with no per-execution limits. | Non-technical automation between apps |
| Verdict | recommended | recommended |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | n8n | Zapier |
|---|---|---|
| Self-hostable open source | — | |
| Visual workflow builder | — | |
| 400+ built-in integrations | — | |
| Custom code nodes (JS/Python) | — | |
| Conditional branching and loops | — | |
| Community nodes ecosystem | — | |
| 7000+ apps | — | |
| Triggers | — | |
| AI builder | — | |
| Multi-step | — | |
| Filters | — | |
| Webhooks | — |
n8n
Pros
- ✓Self-hosted with no per-execution pricing limits
- ✓Custom code nodes handle any edge case
- ✓Open source with full data control
Cons
- ✕Self-hosting requires technical setup and maintenance
- ✕Fewer pre-built integrations than Zapier
- ✕Cloud plans have execution limits like competitors
Zapier
Pros
- ✓Largest library
- ✓Easy
- ✓AI builder
- ✓Reliable
Cons
- ✕Per-task pricing
- ✕Not self-hosted
- ✕Complex limits
The Bottom Line
Both n8n and Zapier are solid tools in the No-Code & Automation space. n8n edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.5 vs 3.5) and is the better choice for technical teams who want self-hosted automation with no per-execution limits.. However, if you prioritize non-technical automation between apps, Zapier is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is n8n better than Zapier?▼
n8n scores higher overall with a 4.5 rating vs 3.5. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. n8n is best for Technical teams who want self-hosted automation with no per-execution limits., while Zapier is best for Non-technical automation between apps.
Can I switch from n8n to Zapier?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. Zapier offers trial options to help you evaluate the switch.
Which is more affordable, n8n or Zapier?▼
n8n starts at $24/mo (Cloud Starter, 2.5K executions), while Zapier starts at $29.99/mo. n8n offers a free tier.