n8n vs Zapier: Workflow Automation for Technical Teams
Comparing n8n and Zapier for workflow automation. Self-hosted power and flexibility vs cloud simplicity - which fits your technical needs?
Overview
n8n and Zapier both automate workflows, but for different users. Zapier is the market leader with the simplest interface and broadest integrations. n8n is an open-source alternative offering self-hosting, code flexibility, and dramatically lower costs. Technical teams often prefer n8n; non-technical teams prefer Zapier.
The choice reflects your technical resources and control requirements more than pure capability.
| Feature | n8n | Zapier |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment | Self-host or Cloud | Cloud only |
| Pricing | Free (self-host) | $19.99/mo start |
| Integrations | 400+ | 7,000+ |
| Code Support | JavaScript/Python | Limited |
| Visual Builder | Node-based canvas | Linear steps |
| Ease of Use | Technical | Very easy |
| Error Handling | Comprehensive | Basic |
| Data Privacy | Full control | Cloud-based |
Key Differences
Deployment and Control
n8n can be self-hosted on your infrastructure. This provides complete control over data, execution, and costs. No data leaves your servers. For companies with compliance requirements or sensitive data, self-hosting is essential. n8n Cloud exists for those wanting managed hosting.
Zapier is cloud-only. Your data flows through Zapier's servers. For most business automation, this is fine. For sensitive data or regulated industries, cloud-only can be a limitation. You trade control for convenience.
Technical Flexibility
n8n embraces code. Write JavaScript or Python within workflows. Build custom nodes. Handle complex data transformations. The visual builder shows nodes connected on a canvas, revealing the entire flow at once. For developers, this power is liberating.
Zapier minimizes code. The interface is designed for non-technical users. Formatters and filters handle basic logic. Code steps exist but feel bolted on. The simplicity that makes Zapier accessible also limits what power users can build.
Cost Structure
n8n self-hosted is free with unlimited executions. You pay only for hosting infrastructure (potentially $5-50/month for a VPS). n8n Cloud starts at $20/month. For high-volume automation, self-hosted n8n costs a fraction of Zapier.
Zapier pricing is task-based. At $19.99/month for 750 tasks, costs grow with usage. Complex workflows with many steps burn tasks quickly. Heavy automation users often face $100-500+/month bills. The pricing that seems reasonable initially can become significant.
Integration Breadth vs Depth
Zapier has 7,000+ integrations with excellent coverage of popular apps. Most integrations "just work" for standard use cases. If an app is popular, Zapier probably supports it with minimal configuration.
n8n has 400+ integrations covering major applications. HTTP nodes let you connect to any API. For uncommon integrations, you'll write more configuration but gain more control. The community contributes nodes, and custom nodes are buildable.
Cost Comparison
| Monthly Executions | n8n (Self-Host) | Zapier |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | ~$5-10 (VPS) | $19.99 |
| 10,000 | ~$10-20 (VPS) | $69 |
| 100,000 | ~$20-50 (VPS) | $299+ |
| Unlimited | ~$50 (VPS) | Enterprise (custom) |
For technical teams willing to manage infrastructure, n8n can be 90% cheaper than Zapier at scale.
Who Should Choose What
Choose n8n if:
- You have technical resources to self-host
- Data privacy or compliance requires on-premise
- Cost at scale is a concern
- You want to write code within workflows
- Complex data transformations are common
Choose Zapier if:
- You want the simplest possible experience
- Non-technical team members will build automations
- You need specific integrations Zapier has
- Managing infrastructure isn't appealing
- Your automation volume is moderate
The Bottom Line
n8n is exceptional for technical teams. The combination of self-hosting, code flexibility, and cost efficiency makes it the clear choice for developers and operations teams. If you're comfortable with Docker and APIs, n8n delivers more power at less cost.
Zapier remains the best choice for non-technical users and teams prioritizing simplicity over control. The breadth of integrations and ease of use justify the premium for teams who value convenience.
Many organizations use both - Zapier for marketing and sales teams building simple automations, n8n for technical teams building complex workflows. The tools serve different users well.
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