n8n vs Make.com: Which Low-Code Automation Tool Is Best for 2026?

June 17, 2025

n8n vs Make.com –  In today’s era of no-code and low-code tools, automating workflows is easier than ever. Whether you are automating marketing tasks, syncing databases, or integrating your favourite SaaS apps, automation platforms like n8n and Make.com (previously Integromat) provide robust solutions. But while they share the same goal, their approaches could not be more different. In this post, we will dive deep into the differences between n8n and Make.com to help you choose the right tool for your needs, whether you are a developer craving flexibility or a business user looking for simplicity.

What Is n8n?

n8n (short for “nodemation”) is an open-source workflow automation tool that gives developers the ability to build powerful automations with full control over logic, data manipulation, and infrastructure. Launched in 2019, n8n has quickly grown in popularity thanks to its self-hosting capabilities and extensibility.

n8n's Major feature:

• Open-source: n8n is released under the Fair Code license, allowing it to be used freely with some restrictions for commercial products.
• Self-hosting Option: You can host it on your servers for complete control and compliance.
• JavaScript and Function Nodes: Supports custom logic using JavaScript, which makes it perfect for intricate cases.
• API Integration: Communicate with REST APIs using HTTP request nodes.
• Modular Architecture: Create and expand your custom nodes.

Best for:

• Technical teams and developers
• Projects that need custom integrations
• Organisations that have rigorous data privacy or compliance requirements

What Is Make.com?

Make.com is a cloud-hosted visual automation platform that is user-friendly and has quick deployment. Originally called Integromat, Make is built on a no-code philosophy with a large collection of prebuilt integrations and drag-and-drop functionality.

Make.com's Key feature:

• Cloud-only Platform: No self-hosting; everything executes in the cloud.
• 1,500+ App Integrations: Large library of prebuilt modules for popular applications such as Google Sheets, Slack, Airtable, and many others.
• Visual Editor: Create workflows by dragging and linking modules.
• Built-in Logic Tools: Employ filters, routers, aggregators, and iterators without code.
• Error Handling and Execution History: Built-in debugging and logging tools for improved control.

Best for:

• Business users and non-technical teams
• Marketing, sales, and operations teams
• Fast automation without server management

Use Cases

When to Select n8n:

• You have an in-house development team or technical resources.
• Your process needs advanced data transformations or conditional routing.
• You prefer to host the platform in-house for security or compliance purposes.
• You require an open, flexible platform with open customisation.
• You need to develop custom nodes for internal APIs or services.

When to Select Make.com:

• You prefer to quickly design automations without any code writing.
• You need a visually intensive interface.
• You depend on popular SaaS software already integrated.
• You need rapid deployment with a simple setup.
• You’re an individual entrepreneur or small business owner without a development team.

Head-to-Head Comparison 

Pros and Cons

n8n

Pros:

1. Open-source and free for self-hosting
2. High level of customisation
3. Ideal for API-based workflows
4. Developer-friendly

Cons:

1. Steep learning curve for new users
2. UI is functional but less polished
3. Needs server management when self-hosted
4. Less prebuilt integrations than Make

Make.com

Pros:

1. Very user-friendly UI
2. Massive collection of prebuilt integrations
3. Quick setup and deployment
4. Ideal for non-technical users

Cons:

1. No self-hosting options available
2. Not open-source
3. Less support for custom code
4. Potentially more expensive for heavy usage

Conclusion

n8n and Make.com are both titans of task automation and service connection, but they appeal to different groups and use cases. If you’re an organisation or a developer with demanding needs and a need for complete control, n8n is a compelling option. Conversely, if you have a no-code solution in mind that’s simple to implement and comes with a plethora of integrations, Make.com is difficult to top.

Ultimately, the best tool for you will be determined by your particular use case, technical ability, and budget. The good news: Both offer free plans, so you can give them a spin and see which one works for you.

FAQ

1. What is the main difference between n8n and Make.com?
The main difference between n8n and Make.com is their approach to automation. n8n is an open-source automation platform that allows self-hosting and advanced customization using JavaScript. On the other hand, Make.com is a fully cloud-based automation tool that focuses on ease of use with a visual drag-and-drop interface and a wide range of prebuilt integrations.

2. Which automation tool is better for non-technical users?
Make.com is better suited for non-technical users because of its intuitive visual workflow builder and extensive library of ready-made integrations. Users can easily create automations without writing code, making it ideal for beginners and business users.

3. Can n8n be self-hosted?
Yes, n8n can be self-hosted on your own server. This gives users full control over data, security, and customization, which makes it an excellent choice for privacy-focused businesses and enterprise-level automation needs.

4. Do n8n and Make.com offer free plans?
Both n8n and Make.com offer free options. n8n provides a free open-source version that can be self-hosted, while Make.com offers a limited free cloud plan based on the number of monthly operations.

5. Which tool offers more integrations?
Make.com offers more native integrations with hundreds of popular applications. However, n8n provides greater flexibility through API connections and custom-built integrations, which can be useful for advanced use cases.

6. Is n8n more cost-effective than Make.com?
n8n can be more cost-effective for complex or high-volume automation workflows, especially when self-hosted. Unlike Make.com, n8n does not charge per operation, which helps reduce long-term automation costs.

7. Which platform is better for complex automation workflows?
n8n is generally better for complex automation workflows because it supports custom JavaScript, advanced logic, conditional branching, and detailed control over execution processes.

8. Is Make.com suitable for enterprise automation?
Yes, Make.com is suitable for enterprise automation. It offers scalable cloud infrastructure, strong security compliance, and collaboration features that support teams and large organizations.

9. Which tool is better in 2026: n8n or Make.com?
The better tool in 2026 depends on your specific requirements. n8n is ideal for users who need flexibility, self-hosting, and deep customization. Make.com is a better choice for those who want quick setup, ease of use, and ready-to-use integrations.

Maitry Patel

Author

Senior Quality Analyst with hands-on experience in manual and automated testing, focused on functional, regression, and UI testing. Shares practical insights to improve QA practices and process efficiency.