n8n
🔥 HotThe open-source Zapier alternative with 400+ integrations and AI agent capabilities. Self-host for free or use cloud from €24/mo. Costs 75% less than Zapier for complex workflows.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission
What is n8n?
n8n is an open-source workflow automation platform that lets developers and technical teams build complex automations with 400+ integrations, custom JavaScript logic, and AI agent capabilities. Think of it as Zapier for developers — visual workflow builder with the power of code when you need it.
In 2025, n8n reached a $2.3 billion valuation and $40M+ in annual revenue, becoming one of the fastest-growing developer tools. It's particularly popular among AI builders using it to orchestrate AI agents, LLM workflows, and data pipelines.
Who is it for?
n8n is for developers and technical founders who want full automation control, ops teams building complex data pipelines, agencies building automation services for clients, AI builders orchestrating LLM and AI agent workflows, and teams frustrated by Zapier's per-task pricing on complex workflows.
Key Features
- 400+ integrations — connect any API, database, or service
- AI agent nodes — build AI agents that use tools and make decisions
- Custom JavaScript — write code inside workflows when no-code isn't enough
- Self-hosted option — run on your own server, free forever with unlimited executions
- Webhook triggers — start workflows from any external event
- Error handling — custom error paths and retry logic
- Data transformation — complex data manipulation without leaving the workflow
- Git integration — version control your workflows
- MCP support — Model Context Protocol for AI integrations
Pricing 2026
| Plan | Price | Executions |
|---|---|---|
| Self-hosted | Free | Unlimited |
| Starter (cloud) | €24/mo | 2,500/mo |
| Pro (cloud) | €60/mo | 10,000/mo |
| Business (cloud) | €800/mo | 40,000/mo |
Why n8n costs 75% less than Zapier: n8n charges per workflow execution (one run = one execution regardless of steps). Zapier charges per task (each action in a workflow = one task). A 10-step workflow costs 10x less on n8n.
n8n vs Zapier vs Make
| Tool | Self-Host | Free Tier | Code Support | AI Agents |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| n8n | ✅ | ✅ (unlimited) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Zapier | ❌ | ✅ (limited) | ❌ | Partial |
| Make | ❌ | ✅ | Partial | Partial |
Affiliate Program
n8n has an affiliate program. Register at n8n.io/affiliates.
Our Verdict
n8n is the best automation tool for technical teams in 2026. The self-hosted free tier with unlimited executions makes it the obvious choice for developers who want full control without SaaS fees.
Best for: Developers, technical founders, and ops teams building complex automations and AI workflows. Not ideal for: Non-technical users who want simple drag-and-drop automation — Zapier or Make are easier. Bottom line: If you can self-host, n8n is free and better than Zapier for complex workflows. Start there.