Open-source workflow automation tool
n8n is best for Developers and technical teams who want full control over their automation infrastructure, need custom code in workflows, or require self-hosting for data privacy.. Its standout features include open source & self-hostable, though requires technical setup for self-hosting. Recommended for professionals and teams who need automation solutions.
Developers and technical teams who want full control over their automation infrastructure, need custom code in workflows, or require self-hosting for data privacy.
If you want zero-setup simplicity, Zapier or Make are easier. n8n requires more technical knowledge, especially for self-hosting.
Ready to get started with n8n?
Try n8n Free →Self-host on your own infrastructure for complete data privacy, or use the managed cloud version.
Build workflows by connecting nodes in a canvas with drag-and-drop simplicity and real-time execution.
Connect to 400+ services including databases, APIs, AI models, and communication platforms.
Write JavaScript or Python within workflow nodes for complex data processing and custom logic.
Build autonomous AI workflows with LangChain integration, tool use, and memory.
Version control your workflows with Git and manage deployments across environments.
Configure retry logic, fallback paths, and error notifications for reliable production workflows.
Share API credentials securely across workflows and team members with encrypted storage.
Free Tier: Limited features available
Free (open source)
€24/month
€60/month
$800/month
Billed annually. 50% startup discount available.
Custom pricing
Prices verified February 2026. Charges per workflow execution (not per step) — more predictable than Zapier/Make. All plans include unlimited users and workflows. Save 20% with annual billing.
Best value for most users: Start with the free plan and upgrade as needed.
Visit the n8n website and click "Sign Up"
Choose your plan (free tier available to start)
Complete the onboarding tutorial to learn key features
Start creating and explore the platform capabilities
Our editorial team tested n8n through hands-on use, evaluating its core features, ease of use, output quality, and value for money. We compared it with leading alternatives in the automation category and verified pricing accuracy as of January 2026.
Read our full editorial policy • Last reviewed: February 2026
n8n is open source and free to self-host. Their cloud-hosted version starts at $20/month. The self-hosted version has no usage limits.
n8n is open source and self-hostable with more developer-friendly features like custom code nodes. Zapier is easier to use with more integrations. n8n wins on price and control, Zapier wins on simplicity.
Yes, n8n can be self-hosted on your own servers using Docker, giving you full control over data, no usage limits, and zero subscription costs.
Yes, n8n has strong AI support with LangChain integration, AI agent nodes, and connections to OpenAI, Anthropic, and other AI providers for building AI-powered automations.
n8n supports JavaScript and Python in custom code nodes, allowing you to write custom logic within your automation workflows.
Yes, n8n offers enterprise features including SSO, RBAC, audit logging, and dedicated support. Self-hosting ensures data stays within your infrastructure.
n8n implements industry-standard security practices including data encryption in transit and at rest. For paid plans, additional security features like SOC 2 compliance and single sign-on (SSO) may be available. We recommend reviewing their privacy policy and terms of service for specific data handling practices, especially if you plan to process sensitive or proprietary information.
n8n offers integration capabilities to fit into existing workflows. It connects with thousands of apps through native integrations, APIs, Zapier, and Make (formerly Integromat). Check their integrations page for the full list of supported connections.
Choose n8n if you need Developers and technical teams who want full control over their automation infrastructure, need custom code in workflows, or require self-hosting for data privacy.. Its fully open source makes it a strong choice for professionals. Skip it if if you want zero-setup simplicity, zapier or make are easier. n8n requires more technical knowledge, especially for self-hosting..
Free (open source)
€24/month
€60/month
$800/month
Billed annually. 50% startup discount available.
Custom pricing
Prices verified February 2026. Charges per workflow execution (not per step) — more predictable than Zapier/Make. All plans include unlimited users and workflows. Save 20% with annual billing.
Last updated: February 2026
Written and reviewed by the PickAI editorial team