Comparison
Zapier vs Make vs n8n
A first-pass comparison of three automation platforms for technical productivity work.
Affiliate facts last checked 2026-11-16.
| Tool | Positioning | Platforms | Affiliate status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zapier | A widely used no-code automation platform and a baseline for comparisons. | Web | Official program, applications open |
| Make | A visual automation platform often compared with Zapier and n8n. | Web | Official program, applications open |
| n8n | A workflow and AI-agent platform that can be self-hosted or used as n8n Cloud. | Web, Self-hosted, Cloud | Official program, applications open |
This is the site’s first comparison page. It is a structured starting point, not a scored verdict. Pricing changes often; check each vendor’s official pricing page before you buy. Affiliate status below was checked against official program pages on 16 November 2026 (Hong Kong time).
Who each one is for
- Zapier is the familiar no-code default, with a large app catalog and a relatively gentle learning curve. It is a reasonable starting point if you want managed automation and do not want to host anything.
- Make is a visual, scenario-based builder. It often appeals to people who want more control over branching and data transformation than a simple linear zap, still in a hosted product.
- n8n is the option most likely to fit readers who want self-hosting, versionable workflows, or tighter control of credentials and runtime. n8n Cloud exists for people who want the same product without operating a server.
Practical differences
The table on this page is filled from the tool entries in the directory. A later revision will add hands-on notes from a single, dated task run on all three tools (for example: watch a mailbox or form, summarize with an assistant, and file a follow-up).
Affiliate notes
Zapier, Make, and n8n each have official programs. Make’s public page states 35% of subscription payments for 12 months. n8n’s public page states 30% on n8n Cloud referrals for the first 12 months. Zapier’s official terms describe one-time fixed rewards shown in its partner portal, not a published percentage, and those rewards are not paid on renewals. This site will not invent a Zapier dollar amount the official terms do not publish. Affiliate links will appear only after the relevant program application is approved.