Summary: Zapier is the easiest with the broadest integrations; Make is strong on visual logic at attractive prices; n8n is the most flexible, can be self-hosted, and fits sensitive data or complex flows. Verify prices on official sites; they change often.

Comparison

Aspect Zapier Make n8n
Ease of use Very easy Easy-medium Medium
Built-in integrations Very many Many Many + HTTP/code
Complex logic (loops, branches) Limited Strong Very strong
Self-hosting No No Yes
Custom code Limited Limited JavaScript/Python
Pricing model Per task Per operation Per execution (cloud) / own infrastructure
Data control Vendor cloud Vendor cloud Can be on your own server
Best for Non-technical, fast Operations teams Technical teams / control needs

Choose Zapier If

Your team is non-technical, flows are simple, and you need popular SaaS integrations as fast as possible.

Choose Make If

You need richer visual logic (iterators, aggregators) at a reasonable per-operation cost for medium volume.

Choose n8n If

  • Sensitive data must stay on your own infrastructure.
  • Volume is high enough that per-task pricing balloons.
  • You need custom code, AI agents, or special API integrations.
  • You want to avoid lock-in.

Cost: How to Compare Fairly

Count steps per workflow × executions per month, then compare to each platform's pricing model. Platforms that charge per step/operation can spike on multi-step workflows. For self-hosted n8n, add server, backup, and maintenance costs.

Migration

Flows from Zapier or Make can be rebuilt in n8n; some logic needs adjusting. Start with the highest-volume workflows, where savings are biggest.

FAQ

Which is the most secure?

Security depends on configuration. Self-hosting gives full control but also full responsibility (n8n security).

Can I use all three together?

You can, but manage the complexity; consolidating is usually more efficient.

Next steps

Send us your workflow list, and we will calculate a cost comparison and a migration plan to n8n.