n8n vs Zapier - Which Automation Tool is Better?
A detailed comparison of n8n and Zapier for workflow automation. Discover which tool suits your business needs, budget, and technical requirements.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | n8n | Zapier |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free self-hosted / $20+ | $19.99+ / month |
| Self-Hosting | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Open Source | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Ease of Use | Medium | Easy |
| Integrations | 400+ | 6000+ |
| Custom Code | ✓ Full JavaScript | Limited |
| Complex Workflows | Excellent | Good |
What is n8n?
n8n (pronounced "n-eight-n") is an open-source workflow automation tool that allows you to connect different services and automate tasks. It's known for its visual workflow builder and the ability to self-host, giving you complete control over your data.
Pros of n8n:
- ✓ Free Self-Hosting - Run unlimited workflows on your own server
- ✓ Data Privacy - Your data never leaves your infrastructure
- ✓ Full Code Access - Write custom JavaScript functions
- ✓ Complex Logic - Supports loops, branches, and error handling
- ✓ No Execution Limits - Unlimited tasks when self-hosted
Cons of n8n:
- ✗ Requires technical knowledge to self-host
- ✗ Fewer pre-built integrations than Zapier
- ✗ Steeper learning curve for beginners
What is Zapier?
Zapier is a popular cloud-based automation platform that connects over 6,000 apps. It's designed for non-technical users with an easy-to-use interface and pre-built templates.
Pros of Zapier:
- ✓ User-Friendly - No coding required, drag-and-drop interface
- ✓ Huge App Library - 6,000+ integrations available
- ✓ Templates - Pre-built workflows for common use cases
- ✓ Reliability - Managed cloud infrastructure with 99.9% uptime
Cons of Zapier:
- ✗ Expensive at scale (pricing based on tasks)
- ✗ Limited custom code support
- ✗ Data stored on Zapier's servers
- ✗ Complex workflows can become expensive
When to Choose n8n?
- → You have technical resources to manage self-hosting
- → Data privacy is a priority (GDPR, HIPAA compliance)
- → You need complex workflows with custom code
- → You want to avoid per-task pricing
- → You're a startup or agency running many automations
When to Choose Zapier?
- → You're non-technical and need easy setup
- → You need integrations with niche apps
- → You have simple, linear workflows
- → You prefer managed, reliable cloud service
- → You have budget for premium automation
RapidStackLab n8n Services
We specialize in n8n automation for businesses. Our services include:
- ✓ n8n Setup & Hosting - We set up and manage n8n on your infrastructure
- ✓ Custom Workflows - Build complex automations tailored to your business
- ✓ Integration Development - Connect any API or service
- ✓ Maintenance & Support - Ongoing monitoring and updates
Our Verdict
For most businesses in 2025, we recommend n8n - especially if you're concerned about costs at scale or need complex workflows. The ability to self-host means you're not locked into monthly fees that grow with your usage.
However, if you're a non-technical user who needs simple automations and values convenience over cost savings, Zapier remains an excellent choice.
Need Help Setting Up n8n?
We can set up, customize, and manage n8n automation for your business.
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