Automation
n8n
Open-source workflow automation with self-hosting option
4.4/5
100K+ users
Since 2019
n8n GmbH
FreemiumIntermediate
ToolSchool Verdict
4.4
Overall Score
Best self-hosted automation platform. Full control and open source.
Ease of Use
4.0
Features
4.5
Value
4.8
Support
4.0
What is n8n?
Open-source workflow automation with self-hosting option
Who makes n8n?
n8n is developed by n8n GmbH.
How much does n8n cost?
Self-hosted: Free forever. Cloud Starter $20/mo: 2500 executions. Pro $50/mo: 10K executions.
Who should use n8n?
n8n is ideal for developers, privacy-focused teams, cost-conscious power users.
TL;DR
- ●Open-source workflow automation with self-hosting option
- ●Self-hosted: Free forever. Cloud Starter $20/mo: 2500 executions. Pro $50/mo: 10K executions.
- ●Best for developers and privacy-focused teams.
- ●Key strength: self-hosting option.
Bottom line: Best self-hosted automation platform. Full control and open source.
About n8n
n8n is an open-source automation platform that can be self-hosted. Build workflows connecting 400+ apps with code-optional customization and full data control.
Who Should Use n8n?
Developers
Code integration and customization
Privacy-Focused Teams
Self-hosting for data control
Cost-Conscious Power Users
Unlimited free executions
Not Ideal For
Non-Technical Users
Zapier is much easier
Quick Setup Needs
Cloud alternatives are faster to start
Recipes Using n8n
Step-by-step guides to create amazing things
Pricing
Last verified: December 23, 2025
Self-hosted: Free forever. Cloud Starter $20/mo: 2500 executions. Pro $50/mo: 10K executions.
Most Popular
Pros & Cons
An honest assessment based on our testing
What We Like
Self-Hosting Option
Run on your own servers with full data control.
Open Source
Full source code access, MIT licensed.
Free Forever
Unlimited executions when self-hosted.
Code Integration
Add custom JavaScript/Python to workflows.
What Could Be Better
Self-Hosting Complexity
Requires technical knowledge to deploy and maintain.
Fewer Integrations
400+ apps vs Zapier's 6000+.
Steeper Learning Curve
More technical than Zapier or Make.
4
Advantages
identified
3
Limitations
noted
+1
Net Score
favorable
n8n FAQ
Common questions about n8n
Is n8n free?
Yes, n8n is free when self-hosted with unlimited executions. Cloud plans start at $20/month.
n8n vs Zapier?
n8n is open-source with self-hosting option. Zapier is easier with more integrations. n8n is better for developers; Zapier for business users.
How do I self-host n8n?
n8n can be deployed via Docker, npm, or directly on servers. Documentation covers all methods.
Is n8n secure?
When self-hosted, n8n data never leaves your infrastructure. Cloud version has SOC2 compliance.
ToolSchool Verdict
Our expert assessment of n8n
4.4out of 5
Very Good
Ease of Use4.0
Features4.5
Value for Money4.8
Customer Support4.0
“Best self-hosted automation platform. Full control and open source.”
n8n is the automation tool for those who want control. Self-hosting means your data never leaves your infrastructure - crucial for compliance-sensitive businesses. The open-source code means unlimited customization. For developers and privacy-focused teams, n8n is the clear choice. The cloud option offers convenience without the self-hosting burden.
Bottom Line:n8n is a solid option worth considering for most users.
Similar to n8n
AI-powered recommendations based on features, use cases, and user needs
Finding similar tools...
More Automation Tools
View all Automation tools
Google Project Mariner
AI agent from Google DeepMind that automates web browsing and completes tasks in Chrome
4.2
paid
OpenAI Operator
AI agent that uses a browser to complete tasks for you—now integrated as ChatGPT Agent
4.3
paidManus AI
Autonomous AI agent for complex tasks (acquired by Meta)
4.5
freemiumActivepieces
Open-source automation alternative to Zapier
4.2
freemium