n8n
n8n is a source-available workflow tool you can self-host or run in its cloud, with a node-graph canvas and first-class custom code.
Compare · no strawmen
Two capable visual builders. Hosting and billing decide.
Two of the most capable visual automation builders. Both go far beyond simple zaps. The decision comes down to hosting, how you are billed, and how much control you need.
- Your infrastructure or n8n Cloud, versus Make only
- Flat by execution, versus per operation
- Pick on volume, data and logic
n8n Self-host or n8n Cloud
Make Managed, cloud only
The short answer
Both are excellent. The honest deciding factors are hosting, cost at your run volume, and how much custom logic you need, not which brand is “better”.
In one line each
Two terms, defined plainly.
Make
Make is a fully managed, cloud-only automation platform known for a polished visual scenario builder and strong native modules.
Side by side
The two, side by side.
| Compared on | n8n | Make |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Source-available; self-host or n8n Cloud | Fully managed SaaS |
| Hosting | Your infrastructure or hosted cloud | Make only (hosted) |
| Pricing basis | Flat by execution/instance; unlimited ops self-hosted | Priced per operation (each module run) |
| Canvas | Node graph, code-friendly | Visual scenario builder, highly polished |
| Custom code | First-class JavaScript/Python function nodes | Some code and custom apps, more constrained |
| Data control | Full — runs in your environment when self-hosted | Data flows through Make’s cloud |
| Best for | Cost control, complex logic, privacy at volume | Fast visual builds with strong native modules |
Both platforms evolve quickly; verify current pricing and module availability with each vendor. This table reflects the durable differences in model, not a point-in-time feature count.
When to choose which
Choose on volume and control.
Choose n8n when
- You want to self-host and keep data in your environment.
- Per-operation billing would get expensive at your volume.
- Workflows need heavy custom code and complex logic.
Choose Make when
- You want a polished visual builder with no infrastructure.
- Its native modules cover the apps you rely on.
- A managed, cloud-only setup is fine for your data.
How we run it
We ship on the right tool, not the loudest one.
Our AI automation systems run in production on platforms like these: content pipelines, outbound booking agents, and operations dashboards. We match the platform to your volume, budget, and data needs, then hand you something reliable.
FAQ
Questions, answered.
What’s the main difference between n8n and Make?
Both are powerful visual automation builders. The core difference is the model: n8n is source-available and self-hostable with flat, execution-based cost, while Make is a fully managed SaaS priced per operation. n8n trades more setup for lower cost and data control; Make trades some control for a polished, zero-infrastructure experience.
Is Make cheaper than n8n?
It depends on volume. Make charges per operation, so cost scales with how many module runs your scenarios generate. Self-hosted n8n is billed by execution or instance, which is usually cheaper at high volume but adds hosting and maintenance responsibility.
Can I self-host Make like n8n?
No. Make is cloud-only. If self-hosting or keeping data inside your own environment matters, n8n is the option that supports it.
Which is easier for non-developers?
Make’s scenario builder is often considered the more polished visual experience for non-developers. n8n is very usable too but leans more technical and rewards comfort with logic and occasional code. We help teams pick and build on either.
What happens next
- Answer a few quick questions about your business. About two minutes.
- Pick a time that suits you for a free 30-minute call with a founder.
- We study your site before the call, so you leave with a plan, not a pitch.
Free, no obligation. Your answers save as you go, so you can stop and pick up where you left off.