n8n vs Make
n8n vs Make compared: key features, strengths, pricing and use cases. See which automation tool is right for you.
n8n vs Make: Which Automation Tool Is Better?
n8n and Make are both popular choices, but they are built for different needs. n8n combines a visual editor with custom code and self-hosting, while Make is a cloud-based no-code platform with a drag-and-drop canvas and advanced logic.
This n8n vs Make comparison covers key features, strengths, limitations, pricing and ideal use cases, so you can decide which automation tool fits your work, or whether to use both.
Quick verdict
- Choose n8n for self-hosting, custom code steps and full control of your data.
- Choose Make for polished visual workflows without managing servers.
- Try both on a workflow you already run.
n8n vs Make: side-by-side comparison
| n8n | Make |
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| What it is | |
| n8nOpen-source workflow automation you can self-host | MakeVisual no-code platform to automate apps, APIs and AI workflows |
| Category | |
| n8nAutomation | MakeAutomation |
| Launched | |
| n8n2019 | Make— |
| Key differences | |
| Best for | |
| n8nDevelopers and technical teams | MakePeople who want powerful visual workflows without servers |
| Hosting | |
| n8nSelf-host or use the cloud option | MakeCloud only |
| Pricing model | |
| n8nDepends on hosting choice and plan | MakeBased on operations, with a free plan |
| Features and strengths | |
| Main features | |
| n8nVisual workflow editor, Self-hosting, Code when you need it, Many integrations, AI workflows | MakeVisual workflow builder, Large app library, Advanced logic, Execution logs |
| Standout strength | |
| n8nVisual builder with custom code steps for advanced logic | MakeVisual drag-and-drop builder makes complex workflows easy to follow |
| Also strong at | |
| n8nSelf-hosting option for full data control | MakeConnects to thousands of apps, plus any API or webhook |
| Another plus | |
| n8nWide range of integrations, plus webhooks and API access | MakeAdvanced logic with routers, iterators and error handlers |
| Pricing and access | |
| Free plan and pricing | |
| n8nYes. n8n can be self-hosted, which gives you control over your data and infrastructure, and a hosted cloud option is also available. | MakeYes. Make offers a free plan with a limited number of operations, and paid plans for higher usage and more features. |
| Limitations | |
| Main drawback | |
| n8nSteeper learning curve for non-technical users, and self-hosting takes effort | MakePricing is based on operations rather than tasks, so costs can be higher than expected |
What is n8n?
n8n is a flexible workflow automation platform that connects apps, APIs and databases with a visual editor. It is loved for its low-code approach, its many integrations and the option to self-host, which gives teams control over their data and infrastructure.
n8n key features
- Visual workflow editor: build automations by connecting nodes on a canvas
- Self-hosting: run n8n on your own servers for full control
- Code when you need it: add custom code steps, webhooks and API calls
- Many integrations: connect popular apps, services and databases
- AI workflows: build AI-powered automations and agents
n8n strengths
- Visual builder with custom code steps for advanced logic
- Self-hosting option for full data control
- Wide range of integrations, plus webhooks and API access
- Popular open, developer-friendly community
n8n limitations
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users, and self-hosting takes effort
What is Make?
Make is a no-code automation platform that connects your apps and services so repetitive work runs on its own. Its visual, drag-and-drop builder shows the whole workflow as a diagram, which makes complex automations easier to understand, build and fix. Make was formerly known as Integromat and is built for businesses and individuals who want to simplify their processes.
Make key features
- Visual workflow builder: design automations on a drag-and-drop canvas
- Large app library: connect to thousands of popular apps, plus any API or webhook
- Advanced logic: routers, iterators and error handlers for sophisticated scenarios
- Execution logs: monitor and troubleshoot runs in real time
Make strengths
- Visual drag-and-drop builder makes complex workflows easy to follow
- Connects to thousands of apps, plus any API or webhook
- Advanced logic with routers, iterators and error handlers
- Real-time execution logs for monitoring and troubleshooting
- Free plan available
Make limitations
- Pricing is based on operations rather than tasks, so costs can be higher than expected
- Steeper learning curve than some other automation platforms
Features compared
n8n offers visual workflow editor, self-hosting, code when you need it, many integrations, ai workflows. Make offers visual workflow builder, large app library, advanced logic, execution logs. The right choice depends on which of these matter most to your workflow.
Pricing: is n8n or Make cheaper?
Yes. n8n can be self-hosted, which gives you control over your data and infrastructure, and a hosted cloud option is also available. Yes. Make offers a free plan with a limited number of operations, and paid plans for higher usage and more features. Plans and prices change often, so check both official websites for current details.
Which should you choose?
- Developers: n8n, for code and control.
- Non-developers who want visual power: Make.
- Privacy-focused teams: n8n, for self-hosting.
n8n vs Make: frequently asked questions
Is Make better than n8n?
Neither is better in every case. n8n is better if you want code and self-hosting, while Make is better for managed, visual automation.
What is the main difference between n8n and Make?
n8n: Open-source workflow automation you can self-host. Make: Visual no-code platform to automate apps, APIs and AI workflows.
What is n8n?
n8n is a workflow automation platform that connects apps, APIs and databases with a visual editor and optional code.
What is Make?
Make is a no-code platform that connects apps and services to automate repetitive tasks using a visual, drag-and-drop workflow builder.
Are n8n and Make free?
n8n: Yes. n8n can be self-hosted, which gives you control over your data and infrastructure, and a hosted cloud option is also available. Make: Yes. Make offers a free plan with a limited number of operations, and paid plans for higher usage and more features.
Can I use n8n and Make together?
Yes. Many people use more than one tool and pick the one that fits each task best.
Bottom line: n8n and Make are both powerful. Choose n8n for control and self-hosting, and Make for managed visual workflows.
