Both n8n and Make.com (formerly Integromat) are powerful workflow automation tools, but they cater to different users and use cases. This guide compares features, flexibility, pricing, and ease of use to help you decide which one fits your needs.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | n8n | Make.com |
|---|---|---|
| Self-hosted | Yes | No (Cloud-only) |
| Cloud-based | n8n Cloud (Paid) | Yes |
| Open Source | Yes (Free) | No (Proprietary) |
| Custom Nodes | Yes | No |
| Supports JavaScript Code | Yes (Function Node) | Limited (Custom Apps) |
| AI Integrations | Yes (LLMs, OpenAI) | Yes (AI Modules) |
| Parallel Execution | Yes | Yes |
| Webhook Triggers | Yes | Yes |
| Database Connections | Yes (SQL, NoSQL) | Yes (via APIs) |
| API Integration | Fully Customizable | Prebuilt Modules |
| Execution Logging | Detailed | Detailed |
| Error Handling | Advanced (Custom error handling) | Retry & logging |
| Pricing Model | Free (Self-hosted) + Paid Cloud | Paid (Limited free tier) |
Key Differences
1 Hosting Model:
- n8n Self-hosted or Cloud
- Make.com Cloud-only (No self-hosted option)
Who Wins? n8n (if you want full control & self-hosting)
2 Flexibility & Customization:
- n8n Allows JavaScript in function nodes, lets you create custom nodes, and provides low-level API access.
- Make.com More user-friendly, but less flexible (limited to built-in integrations).
Who Wins? n8n (if you need customization), Make.com (if you prefer a no-code approach)
3 Ease of Use:
- n8n More technical (requires basic programming knowledge for advanced use)
- Make.com Easier for beginners (drag-and-drop UI, prebuilt integrations)
Who Wins? Make.com (if you want an easy-to-use tool)
4 Pricing:
| Plan | n8n Cloud | Make.com |
|---|---|---|
| Free Tier | Yes (Self-hosted) | Yes (Limited) |
| Paid Plan | Starts at $20/month | Starts at $9/month |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing | Custom pricing |
Who Wins? n8n (better for unlimited, self-hosted users), Make.com (cheaper for cloud users)
When to Choose n8n
You need a self-hosted solution for privacy or compliance
You want custom scripts & nodes for advanced automation
You prefer an open-source tool with no vendor lock-in
You work with APIs, databases, and webhooks frequently
When to Choose Make.com
You want an easy-to-use, drag-and-drop tool
You dont want to manage your own server
You need prebuilt integrations for common tools
You prefer low-code/no-code over scripting
Final Verdict
- For developers & self-hosting n8n
- For non-tech users & quick automation Make.com
If you're technical and need control & flexibility, go with n8n.
If you want a simple, cloud-based automation tool, choose Make.com.