n8n
n8n is the automation platform for technical teams: visual workflows, AI agents, and fully self-hosted, if desired.
n8n is a workflow automation platform from Berlin, founded in 2019, and a favorite among technical teams. Similar to Make or Zapier, you connect apps to create workflows, but with a key difference: you can run n8n on your own infrastructure and inject custom code at any time.
n8n has become the standard, especially for AI automation: agents that sort emails, prepare offers, or answer support inquiries. It also handles classic use cases like data synchronization between CRM and databases. Its strength: virtually no limits, even if a ready-made connector is missing.
Compared to Zapier or Make, the learning curve is steeper. You'll struggle without a basic understanding of JSON and APIs, and you'll need to maintain and secure the self-hosted version yourself. If you only need three simple workflows, Zapier will get you there faster.
It's ideal for teams with technical requirements, data privacy needs, or high volume, as self-hosting incurs no license fees. Teams without IT resources are better off using Make or the n8n cloud.
Functions
- Fair-Code License: Self-hosting without license fees, full data control
- Pricing model per workflow execution instead of per individual step
- Vast template library from the community
- Branching, loops, and error handling without workarounds
- Data privacy advantage: Data remains on your server, relevant for GDPR projects
Core Functions
- Visual Workflow Editor with nodes for apps, logic, and code
- Self-hosting via Docker or managed cloud option
- AI Agents and LangChain nodes for LLM workflows
- HTTP Request nodes for any API
- JavaScript and Python code directly in the workflow
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