n8n vs Zapier: Open-Source Workflow Automation Compared
Both platforms automate workflows between your apps. One charges per task and locks your data in the cloud. The other is open-source, self-hosted, and unlimited. Here's the full comparison.
Quick Verdict
n8n wins for teams that want unlimited automations without per-task pricing. If you're running more than a handful of workflows, Zapier's task-based billing adds up fast. n8n gives you the same visual builder, 400+ integrations, and the ability to write custom code nodes -- all self-hosted with no execution limits and full control over your data.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
How n8n and Zapier stack up across the features that matter most.
| Feature | n8n | Zapier |
|---|---|---|
| Triggers & Actions | 400+ integrations with HTTP/webhook nodes for any API | 7,000+ app integrations (many surface-level) |
| Pricing Model | Free self-hosted, unlimited executions | Per-task pricing, $20-$100+/user/mo |
| Self-Hosting | Full self-hosting support (Docker, Kubernetes) | Cloud-only, no self-hosting option |
| Code Nodes | JavaScript/Python code nodes in any workflow | Code steps available (JavaScript/Python) |
| Data Privacy | Data stays on your servers, full GDPR control | Data processed on Zapier's cloud servers |
| Execution Limits | Unlimited executions (self-hosted) | 100-100K tasks/mo depending on plan |
| Workflow Complexity | Branching, merging, loops, sub-workflows | Paths and filters (less flexible branching) |
| Open Source | Fair-code licensed, fully auditable | Proprietary, closed-source |
Pricing Comparison
What you'll actually pay as your automation needs scale.
- Task-based pricing that scales with usage
- Free tier limited to 100 tasks/month
- Premium integrations cost extra
- Multi-step zaps locked behind higher tiers
Team of 10 running 50K tasks/mo: ~$750/mo
- Unlimited workflows and executions
- No per-task or per-user fees
- All integrations included at every level
- Run on your own infrastructure or VPS
Team of 10 running unlimited tasks: ~$50-150/mo hosting
When to Choose n8n
n8n is the right choice when cost control, data privacy, and workflow flexibility are priorities for your team.
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Cost control matters
No per-task pricing means your costs stay flat as usage grows.
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Data privacy is non-negotiable
Keep sensitive data on your own servers with full GDPR compliance.
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Complex workflows are the norm
Branching, looping, merging, and sub-workflows without limitations.
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Custom code is needed
Write JavaScript or Python directly within workflows for custom logic.
When Zapier Might Be Better
Zapier still has its place for small teams with simple, low-volume automation needs.
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Tiny team, low volume
If you run fewer than 100 tasks/month, Zapier's free tier may suffice.
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No technical resources
Zapier requires zero server management and is fully managed.
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Need for simplicity
Simple trigger-action workflows between common SaaS apps.
Switching from Zapier to n8n
Migration doesn't have to be painful. Here's our proven process.
Audit Existing Zaps
We catalog every active Zap, map dependencies, and identify the workflows that matter most to your operations.
Deploy n8n Infrastructure
We set up n8n on your server or cloud VPS with proper security, backups, and monitoring configured.
Rebuild & Enhance Workflows
We recreate your workflows in n8n, often improving them with features Zapier couldn't support like branching and loops.
Test & Go Live
We run both systems in parallel, validate results, and cut over cleanly once everything is verified.
Deploy n8n for Your Team
Stop paying per task for workflow automation. We'll deploy, configure, and migrate your workflows to n8n -- self-hosted, unlimited, and fully under your control.