GoonIntroduction to n8n and its Comparison with Make.com and Zapier
The no-code automation space has been dominated by Zapier and Make.com for quite a while, but recently, n8n has started making waves in this space. In this article, we will explore why n8n has become a preferred choice for many, including the author, and what features make it stand out from the competition.
The Rise of n8n
Introduction to the world of n8n and its growing popularity
The author, who previously used Make.com, has made the switch to n8n and recommends it to clients. There are cases where Zapier or Make.com might be more beneficial, but in this article, we will focus on the four key reasons why n8n is considered a better tool.
Key Feature 1: Cost Saving
Comparing the costs of n8n, Make.com, and Zapier
One of the primary advantages of n8n is its cost-saving feature. While all three tools start at around $20 per month, the costs escalate rapidly as you increase the number of automations with Make.com or Zapier. For instance, Zapier can charge over $730 a month for 100,000 actions, which translates to around $8,000 per year. Make.com is less expensive but still costs over $100 per month for basic features, totaling around $1,200 per year. In contrast, n8n only charges per workflow execution, allowing users to spend as little as $20 for the same number of actions.
Key Feature 2: Self-Hosting
The benefits of self-hosting with n8n
Another significant advantage of n8n is its self-hosting feature. Users can host n8n on their local machine and pay $0 to run it. This feature is particularly useful for testing and development purposes, as it eliminates the need for a paid subscription. Self-hosting also provides more control over data security, which is a significant concern for many users.
Key Feature 3: Low-Code Power
The ability to write custom code is a game-changer for n8n. While the author initially chose no-code tools for their speed and ease of use, there are situations where custom coding is necessary. n8n's low-code power allows users to write snippets of code and integrate them seamlessly into their workflows. This feature is particularly useful for building complex automations that require custom functionality.
Key Feature 4: AI Powerhouse
n8n's AI capabilities make it an attractive choice for users who want to build advanced agenting workflows. The tool enables AI agents that can reason and use multiple tools dynamically, making it a powerhouse in the automation space. Building similar workflows on Zapier or Make.com would be complex and likely require significant coding expertise.
Downsides of n8n
While n8n has its advantages, it also has some downsides. One of the primary concerns is its complexity, which can be intimidating for users who are not familiar with JavaScript or coding. Additionally, n8n's UI is not as user-friendly as Make.com, and it lacks integrated apps, making it more complicated to use.
Is n8n Right for You?
Determining whether n8n is the right choice
n8n is an excellent choice for users who are looking for a cost-effective, self-hosted automation tool with low-code power and AI capabilities. However, it may not be the best fit for users who prefer a more straightforward, user-friendly interface or require a wide range of integrated apps.
Conclusion
Conclusion and final thoughts on n8n
In conclusion, n8n is a powerful automation tool that offers a range of advantages, including cost savings, self-hosting, low-code power, and AI capabilities. While it may have its downsides, it is an excellent choice for users who are looking for a flexible and customizable automation solution. By considering the pros and cons of n8n, users can determine whether it is the right tool for their needs and make an informed decision about their automation strategy.