Automation is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re running a startup, freelancing, or managing IT operations, automating repetitive tasks saves time, reduces error, and unlocks scalability. Two standout tools in this space are n8n and Make (formerly Integromat). Each has its strengths, but they cater to different audiences. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to choose the right one.

What Is n8n?

n8n is an open-source workflow automation platform that lets you connect apps, APIs, and services. You can self-host it (for free) or use their cloud plan. With strong developer features like JavaScript execution, HTTP requests, and environment variables, it’s geared toward users who need maximum flexibility and control.

Core Highlights:

• Open-source with self-hosting options
• 400+ integrations (and growing)
• Full access to JavaScript, HTTP calls, and custom nodes
• Great for devs and privacy-focused users

What Is Make?

Make is a cloud-based automation tool that offers a visual drag-and-drop builder and 1,500+ prebuilt app integrations. Formerly known as Integromat, it’s made for business users, marketers, and non-tech teams who need to automate without writing code.

Core Highlights:

• Fully cloud-hosted
• 1,500+ integrations and templates
• Easy-to-use visual scenario builder
• Built-in error handling and logs
• Team collaboration features

Features Comparison

Pros and Cons

n8n Pros

• Free and open source (if self-hosted)
• Unlimited executions
• Great for advanced users and developers
• Full data privacy (when self-hosted)
• Easy to extend and customize

n8n Cons

• Requires setup and maintenance
• Smaller integration library
• Learning curve for non-devs
• Basic UI compared to Make

Make Pros

• Extremely user-friendly
• Huge library of integrations
• Templates for common automations
• Powerful error handling and monitoring
• Team and collaboration tools

Make Cons

• Usage-based pricing can be costly
• No self-hosting (cloud only)
• Limited flexibility for advanced logic
• Vendor lock-in and privacy concerns

Where They Overlap

Both tools:

• Offer visual builders
• Connect to hundreds of apps
• Support webhooks and APIs
• Can run conditional logic
• Automate common tasks like lead routing, CRM syncs, email alerts, and file transfers

Where They Differ

Use Case Recommendations

Go with n8n if:

• You want full control and don’t mind self-hosting
• You’re integrating custom APIs or backend systems
• You care deeply about data privacy
• You’re a developer or technical team

Choose Make if:

• You want fast, no-code setup
• Your team relies on SaaS tools
• You prefer working from templates
• You need robust error handling and collaboration

🚀 Try n8n for Free: Get n8n Now

FAQ

Is n8n really free?
Yes, if you self-host. The cloud version is paid.

Does Make offer unlimited automations?
No. It’s based on operation volume and plan limits.

Can I move workflows between them?
No, but many can be recreated manually.

Which is more scalable?
n8n for technical scaling (self-host). Make for SaaS scaling (pay more, do more).

Is Make easier for non-tech users?
Yes—its UI and templates are beginner-friendly.

Final Verdict

• n8n is ideal for technical power users who need deep control, custom APIs, or private deployments.
• Make is perfect for businesses and teams looking to automate quickly with a rich interface and strong support.

Still unsure? Test both platforms with their free tiers and see which one aligns with your team’s workflows, goals, and technical skills.

🚀 Try n8n for Free (No Server Required)

Want to experience n8n without setting up a server?

✨ Click Here to Sign Up for n8n Cloud →

Try it for free and build unlimited workflows with powerful automation logic.

✅ Visual automation editor
✅ Free-tier available with hosted infrastructure
✅ Upgrade anytime or self-host for unlimited use

Looking for the self-hosting path instead? Read our full guide to installing n8n on your own server and check out our n8n template maker.