n8n vs Zapier

n8n and Zapier both serve the operations-automation space, but they target different segments of the market and solve fundamentally different problems.

n8n: Open-source workflow automation that gives marketing teams control over complex integrations without vendor lock-in.

Zapier: Connect your marketing tools and automate repetitive tasks — Zapier learns your patterns and executes workflows without custom code or engineering resources.

In our 9-dimension evaluation, n8n scores 7.8/100 and Zapier scores 76/100. Zapier edges out with higher marks in strategic fit, reliability, and ROI dimensions.

n8n's key advantage: Self-hosted deployment option eliminates vendor lock-in and addresses data residency requirements for regulated industries or enterprises with strict governance policies

Zapier's key advantage: Connect your marketing tools and automate repetitive tasks — Zapier learns your patterns and execute

Our take on n8n: The open-source Make/Zapier alternative. Best for technical teams that want full control over their automation infrastructure.

Our take on Zapier: The automation standard. Start here for any cross-tool workflow. The AI natural language builder makes setup accessible to non-technical users.

Choose n8n if your team focuses on enterprise marketing teams with engineering resources, organizations requiring data residency or self-hosted infrastructure. Choose Zapier if you prioritize growth teams, operations & automation workflows.

Watch out: n8n — Steep learning curve and technical requirements exclude non-technical marketing teams; requires JavaScript/Python knowledge or dedicated engineering r. Zapier — Newer entry — full review in progress.