Make vs n8n: which should you use?
Make and n8n both connect your apps into automated workflows, with AI steps if you want them. Make is a visual, beginner-friendly cloud tool. n8n is more technical, and you can host it yourself.
Prices checked Oct 15, 2026 on each tool's official pricing page. Prices change often.
Quick verdict
Pick Make if you want to start automating quickly with a visual builder and a free plan. Pick n8n if you are comfortable with technical tools and want to self-host for control over data and cost.
| Feature | Make | n8n |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Connecting apps without code | Automating repetitive tasks between apps |
| Standout feature | Visual drag-and-drop builder with thousands of app connections | Can be self-hosted, with flexible code steps and AI agents |
| Free option | Free plan: 1,000 credits a month | Self-host the Community Edition on your own server |
| Paid plans | Core, Pro and Teams plans: see Make's pricing page | Cloud Starter €20/mo billed yearly |
| Pricing type | Freemium | Freemium |
| Worth knowing | Every step uses credits, so busy workflows can outgrow the free plan quickly. | It is more technical than point-and-click tools; expect a learning curve. |
Choose Make if…
- You are new to automation
- You want a ready-made cloud service
- You prefer clicking to coding
Make lets you build automated workflows, called scenarios, by connecting apps on a visual canvas. It links thousands of apps, supports branches and filters, and can include AI steps, so routine work like copying data or sending updates runs on its own.
Choose n8n if…
- You are comfortable with servers or Docker
- You want to keep data on your own server
- You build AI agent workflows
n8n connects apps and services into automated workflows, including AI agent steps. You can use its cloud service or host it yourself, which makes it popular with technical users who want control over their data.
Questions
Is n8n free?
You can self-host n8n's Community Edition on your own server. The cloud version starts at €20 a month billed yearly.
Is Make easier than n8n?
For most beginners, yes. Make's visual builder and free plan make it easier to start, while n8n rewards technical comfort.