n8n (pronounced "nodemation") launched in 2019 as an open-source alternative to Zapier and Make. Its fair-source license allows self-hosting while the cloud version provides a managed experience.
n8n is an open-source workflow automation tool. Self-host or use the cloud version to build complex automations with full code flexibility.
Quick Answer
n8n is a automation tool. n8n (pronounced "nodemation") launched in 2019 as an open-source alternative to Zapier and Make. It offers a free tier. Paid plans start at $24/mo.
Overview
n8n Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Community | $0 | Self-hosted, unlimited workflows |
| Starter | $24/mo | 2,500 executions, 5 workflows |
| Pro | $60/mo | 10,000 executions, unlimited workflows |
| Enterprise | Custom | SSO, priority support, SLA |
n8n Community is free for self-hosting. Cloud: Starter ($24/month, 2,500 executions), Pro ($60/month, 10,000), and Enterprise (custom). Self-hosting eliminates execution limits.
Key Features
n8n uses a visual workflow builder with 400+ integrations. Custom code nodes (JavaScript/Python) handle anything integrations cannot. Self-hosting gives full data control. Error handling and retry logic ensure reliability.
- Visual workflow builder
- 400+ integrations
- Custom code nodes
- Self-hosting
- Error handling
- Webhooks
- Credentials management
- Version history
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open source
- Self-hosting available
- Custom code support
- Fair source license
Cons
- Fewer integrations than Zapier
- Requires technical knowledge
- Smaller community
Use Cases
Technical teams automate workflows with custom code. Privacy-conscious organizations self-host their automation. Startups build integrations without vendor lock-in. DevOps teams automate infrastructure tasks.
Our Verdict
n8n is the best choice for technical teams wanting automation with code flexibility and self-hosting. For non-technical users, Zapier or Make are easier. n8n shines when you need custom logic or data sovereignty.
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Frequently Asked Questions about n8n
Yes, n8n Community Edition is free and open source for self-hosting with unlimited workflows. Cloud plans start at $24/month.
n8n is better for technical users who want custom code and self-hosting. Zapier is easier for non-technical users. n8n wins on flexibility and cost; Zapier on ease of use.
Yes, n8n can be self-hosted on your own server using Docker. The community edition is free. This gives you full data control and unlimited executions.
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