n8n vs Zapier: Which Automation Platform Wins in 2025

n8n vs Zapier: Complete Comparison

Choosing between n8n and Zapier? Both automation platforms are powerful, but they serve different needs.

Quick Overview

Both are workflow automation tools, but with different approaches:

• n8n: Self-hosted, open-source, developer-centric
• Zapier: Cloud-only, beginner-friendly, enterprise-ready

Core Differences

n8n Strengths

✅ Self-hosted deployment option

✅ True open-source code

✅ Advanced workflow logic

✅ Lower per-task costs

✅ Full API flexibility

Zapier Strengths

✅ Cloud-managed simplicity

✅ 6000+ pre-built integrations

✅ Beginner-friendly interface

✅ 24/7 enterprise support

✅ Proven reliability

Price Comparison

n8n:

• Cloud Free: Start free
• Paid: $25-490/month
• Self-hosted: Free

Zapier:

• Free: 100 tasks/month
• Starter: $29.99/month
• Professional: $99/month
• Team: $300+/month

Feature Comparison

Feature	n8n	Zapier
Self-hosted	Yes	No
Open source	Yes	No
Custom code	Yes	Limited
Integrations	500+	6000+
Cost per task	Low	Medium
Learning curve	Medium	Easy
Free tier	Yes	Yes

When to Choose n8n

✅ Need self-hosted control

✅ Building complex logic

✅ Working with custom APIs

✅ High task volume matters

✅ Want open-source flexibility

When to Choose Zapier

✅ Need quick setup

✅ Want pre-built integrations

✅ Prefer managed service

✅ Need enterprise support

✅ Lower task volume

The Verdict

n8n wins on: Control, cost, flexibility

Zapier wins on: Ease, support, library

Choose n8n for advanced automation with production-ready templates.

Get started with 8000+ pre-built n8n templates: https://n8nworkflows1.gumroad.com/l/n8nAutomationTemplates

Key Takeaways

1. n8n = More power, more control
2. Zapier = More convenience, less learning
3. Budget matters? n8n scales better
4. Beginner? Zapier easier
5. Enterprise? Both work

Choose what fits your needs best.