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COMPARISON · AUTOMATION

Zapier vs Make vs n8n
Pick by volume and budget.

Zapier is the fastest to start. Make handles complex branching. n8n can be self-hosted with no per-task fees. We pick by volume and budget.

Help me pickSee side by side ↓
AT A GLANCE
ZapierQuick, simple connections
MakeComplex, branching workflows
n8nHigh volume and custom logic
01 · THE SHORT ANSWER

Which one fits?

All three move data between apps when something happens. Zapier connects the most apps with the least setup. Make shows each automation as a visual flow, which suits complex, branching logic. n8n can run on your own server, so busy automations don't rack up per-task fees.

For a handful of simple automations, Zapier is often enough. As volume and complexity grow, Make or n8n usually cost less to run.

02 · SIDE BY SIDE

Zapier vs Make vs n8n

CriterionZapierMaken8n
Best forQuick, simple connectionsComplex, branching workflowsHigh volume and custom logic
SetupFastest to startVisual builder, a bit more to learnMost flexible, more setup
Pricing modelPer taskPer operationFree to self-host, or a paid cloud plan
Where it runsTheir cloudTheir cloudTheir cloud or your own server
03 · WHEN TO PICK EACH

Pick it if…

OUR TAKE

Zapier to start, Make for complex flows, n8n when volume grows. We run many of our installs on self-hosted n8n.

ZapierPICK IT IF
  • You need a few automations live this week
  • Your apps are common ones
  • Volume is low
See Zapier →
MakePICK IT IF
  • Your workflows branch with lots of if-this-then-that
  • You want to see the whole flow at once
  • You want more runs for the money
See Make →
n8nPICK IT IF
  • You run a lot of automations every month
  • You want your data on your own server
  • You need custom code in the middle of a flow
See n8n →
Not sure? Book a call →
04 · HOW IT CONNECTS

How it connects

The tools

ZapierThe fastest way to connect two apps.MakeVisual automation for complex, branching workflows.n8nSelf-hosted automation with no per-task fees.

Skills that use them

Lead Intake & BookingA form or call creates the CRM contact and the JobTread customer, then books the site visit.

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05 · QUESTIONS

Questions, answered.

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